HomeMy WebLinkAbout01/05/2009STUDY SESSION AGENDA
CITY COUNCIL MEETING
CITY OF WHEAT RIDGE, COLORADO
7500 WEST 29TH AVENUE, MUNICIPAL BUILDING
January 5. 2009
6:30 p.m.
Staff Reports
A. Off Street Parking
Item 1. Courtesy Bus Bench Program
Item 2. Joint Meeting with the Planning Commission on Comprehensive Plan
Blank page
City of
Wheat'Idge
POLICE DEPARTMENT
Memorandum
TO: Mayor and City Council
THROUGH: Randy Young, knager
FROM: Daniel Brennan, Chief of Police
Ken Johnstone, Director of Community Development
DATE: December 29, 2008
SUBJECT: Off-Street Parking
SUMMARY
In October, Councilmember Wanda Sang had contacted the Police Department regarding a
vehicle that was parked on an unimproved surface in a residential area. Community Services
determined that there was no violation. Councilmember Sang and Mayor DiTullio stated it was
their understanding that motor vehicles could not be parked on unimproved surfaces, such as
grass or dirt; however, a review of current ordinances determined this was not a violation (this
review was of motor vehicles specifically and not recreation vehicles). The review of City Code
of Laws, Article V, Section 26-501 Off-Street Parking Requirements revealed some ambiguity in
the code regarding this matter. Section 26-501 (D) Design, describes appropriate requirements
for the auxiliary storage of motorized or non-motorized vehicles to include surfacing; however,
Section 26-501 (A) Scope, limits the enforcement of this ordinance and does not include existing
residential dwellings.
BACKGROUND
Staff recognizes that allowing the long-term parking or storage of motorized or non-motorized
vehicles on unimproved surfaces for residential dwellings presents a variety of nuisance,
environmental and zoning issues. After reviewing Section 26-501 Off-Street Parking
Requirements it was determined that the ordinance as written, does not prohibit motor vehicles
or non-motorized vehicles from parking on unimproved surfaces in areas designated as single
family dwellings. The basis for that determination comes from Section 26-501 (A), which states:
"This section shall apply only to new development, major change of uses (e.g., single-family to
office; office to restaurant) or substantial extension or expansion of uses or structures for which a
building permit or site use approval is required, established subsequent to the adoption of this
provision, unless otherwise specifically provided."
Staff from the Police Department and Community Development met with the City Attorney on
October 22, 2008. The City Attorney agreed that Section 26-501 (A) Scope restricted the
enforcement of this ordinance to those areas defined under this section. Both departments agreed
that either Section 26-501 would need to be revised if there was a desire to prohibit motor
City of
Wheat -Midge
POLICE DEPARTMENT
Memorandum
TO: Mayor Jerry DiTullio and City Council
THROUGH: Randy Young, City Aa r Zc-
FROM: Daniel Brennan, Chief of Police
DATE: December 22, 2008
SUBJECT: Staff Response to Veto of Ordinance #1425, Series of 2008
SUMMARY
On December 9, 2008 Mayor Jerry DiTullio vetoed Ordinance #1425, Series of 2008 for the following
reasons:
1. The ordinance effectively diminishes or eliminates the Animal Welfare and Control
Commission's duties.
2. The ordinance does not define or recommend new duties of the Animal Welfare and Control
Commission.
3. The ordinance does not address the status of current or expired exotic animal permits within the
City that were issued by the Animal Welfare and Control Commission in past years.
4. The ordinance, as drafted, does not contain the "STRIKE" and/or "INSERT" formatting which
allows for improved understanding and readability by the public and City Council.
The Staff Report for this ordinance was presented to the Mayor and City Council on October 13, 2008.
Copies of the report were prepared in advance of this date and delivered to the Mayor and City Council.
City Council reached a consensus to amend this ordinance and bring it forward for approval. This
amended ordinance was brought to City Council for a First Reading on November 24 and for the Second
Reading on December 8, 2008. City Council voted to approve this ordinance 8-0 at the December 8
City Council meeting.
In response to Mayor DiTullio's veto, the Police Department offers the following comment:
1. "The ordinance effectively diminishes or eliminates the Animal Welfare and Control
Commission's duties. "
Article III, Section 2-56 Animal Welfare and Control Commission defines the scope and responsibilities
of this of this commission. I have attached a copy of Section 2-56 for your review. The revised
ordinance only changes that ability of the Animal Welfare and Control Commissions "...to grant
exceptions to the prohibition against owning, possessing, harboring, selling, or trafficking in wild
animals as provided in section 4-14 Exotic or Wild Animals of this Code." The animal welfare and
control commission will continue to provide advice to the police chief, mayor, city manager and city
council on animal welfare, control and disposition of animals that arise; receive, review complaints and
provide recommendations concerning the administration and effect of ordinances relating to animals;
maintain liaison with the county health officer and report all matters that may endanger the public health
to such county health officer; and shall approve or reject all applications made for the issuance of a
kennel license pursuant to Chapter 4 of the Code of Laws based on the criteria contained within this
section.
It is important to note that the Animal Welfare and Control Commission approved the amended
changes to this ordinance as necessary. Questions expressed about the duties and responsibilities of
the animal welfare and control commission were addressed during the study session on October 13 and
during the pre-meeting on November 24, 2008. In summary, the police department specifically
addressed the intent to look at other opportunities to enhance the role of the animal welfare and control
commission in the areas of animal cruelty prevention and education beginning in 2009.
2. "The ordinance does not define or recommend new duties of the Animal Welfare and Control
Commission. "
As noted above, the amended ordinance does not eliminate or significantly diminish the scope or
responsibility of this commission. There has been no discussion regarding eliminating the commission.
The police department is committed to exploring new opportunities to enhance the role of this
commission; however, not defining or recommending new duties for this commission should not
prohibit amending an outdated and unenforceable ordinance based upon good public policy, as well as
input and approval from the commission.
3. "The ordinance does not address the status of current or expired exotic animal permits within
the City that were issued by the Animal Welfare and Control Commission in past years. "
As noted in the staff report and during subsequent meetings ten (10) exotic animal permit applications
have been received since 2000, and five (5) exotic animal premise inspections have been completed. No
Exotic Animal Permit applications have been received since November 15, 2005. Previous permits that
were issued were effective for a one year period and are now expired. No exotic animal premise
inspection has been conducted since November 15, 2005. Routine exotic animal premise inspections
have not been performed due to limited enforcement resources and other priorities.
4. "The ordinance, as drafted, does not contain the "STRIKE" andlor "INSERT"formatting
which allows for improved understanding and readability by the public and City Council. "
The amended ordinance provided to the department by the City Attorney did not contain the
formatting requested by Mayor DiTullio. The City Attorney has provided the requested
formatting and that is attached for your review.
STAFF RECOMMENDATION
The Police Department does not have the capacity to enforce the current exotic or wild animal
ordinance as written with it currents resources. Additional resources would be necessary to
educate community members, pet retail outlets and veterinarians, and to conduct inspections and
take enforcement action when warranted. Those resources do not currently exist and would
further tax a team responsible for code enforcement, animal control and parks enforcement
without the addition of additional personnel. The Police Department recommends City Council
take into consideration the Police Department's written response and the direction provided by
the Animal Welfare and Control Commission in addressing the issues raised by Mayor DiTullio
in his veto and recommends the approval of the amended ordinance.
DB/jl
Attachments: Council Action Form Exotic Animal Ordinance Revision
Police Department Staff Report
Mayor DiTullio's Veto Memorandum
Code of Laws, Section 2-56 Animal Welfare and Control Commission
Code of Laws, Section 4-14
e
City of
~WheatPidge
ITEM NO:
REQUEST FOR CITY COUNCIL ACTION
III
COUNCIL MEETING DATE: November 24, 2008
TITLE: COUNCIL BILL NO. 22-2008 - AN ORDINANCE AMENDING
CHAPTER 4, SECTION 14 OF THE CODE OF LAWS OF THE
CITY OF WHEAT RIDGE, WHICH CONCERNS THE
REGULATIONS OF EXOTIC ANIMALS WITHIN THE CITY
❑ PUBLIC HEARING ® ORDINANCES FOR 1sT READING (11/24/2008)
❑ BIDS/MOTIONS ❑ ORDINANCES FOR 2ND READING (12/08/2008)
❑ RESOLUTIONS
Quasi-judicial: ❑ YES ® NO
Chief of Police City Manager
EXECUTIVE SUMMARY:
Staff, in cooperation with the City Attorney's Office, recommends approval of the Exotic Animal
Ordinance, as shown in Attachment 1. The typical exotic animal owner has changed over the last
few years due to increased education and awareness programs, thereby creating a more responsible
owner. Enforcing violations of the exotic animal ordinance in the past has been accomplished by
receiving neighborhood complaints. Premise inspections have been obsolete for several years due to
the limitations on staff to conduct inspections and the need for such inspection to ensure compliance
is negligible. The revised ordinance will provide for the prohibition of any animal considered to be a
danger or threat to public safety.
The intent of the 1998 municipal exotic animal ordinance was to restrict ownership to responsible
households with the expectation that owners would self-report exotic animals being brought to the
city. The owner would complete an exotic animal permit application and arrangements would be
made to inspect the premises. Upon completion of the inspection, a permit would be issued to the
exotic animal owner.
Community Services Officers and a member of the Animal Welfare and Control Commission were
required to inspect premises annually where exotic animals reside. Beginning in January, 2000, the
Police Department's records management system reflects the following statistics regarding exotic
animals:
a. Ten (10) exotic animal permit applications have been received.
b. Five (5) exotic animal premise inspections have been completed.
C. Eleven (11) exotic animal permit applications have been cancelled due to the owner
relinquishing the animals or the owners moving from the area.
With only four (4) Community Services Officers performing three enforcement functions, the City's
enforcement resources and capacities are limited. Routine exotic animal premise inspections have
not been routinely performed.
COMMISSION/BOARD RECOMMENDATION:
On November 18, 2008, Staff met with the Animal Welfare and Control Commission at their
regularly scheduled meeting. The final draft of the ordinance, as well as the Staff Report and
Council Action Form, was reviewed and discussed. The commission approved the ordinance by a
vote of 4 to 2 with one member absent.
Members of the police department had met previously with the Animal Welfare and Control
Commission regarding this ordinance change. At that time, the commission made some
recommendations that Staff included in the proposed ordinance:
1. Poisonous animals should include amphibians and arachnids and should be
prohibited.
2. Non-poisonous snakes with a weight greater than five (5) pounds should be
prohibited.
The commission made the following other recommendations that staff did not include in the
proposed ordinance:
1. Prohibited animals should be specifically named. Other cities, from existing models,
do not feel the need to list each species. The list would be extensive and it would be
impossible to determine every animal for the list.
2. The advantage of the permit process is to maintain a list of locations housing exotic
animals. Other cities have found that there is no reason to compile such a list, and if
a list were to be created, it would require regular maintenance.
3. The ordinance needs to define the term "exotic". Other cities have used the term in a
similar way as the proposed ordinance, without any difficulty.
4. The current exotic animal ordinance has been effective, and should not be revised.
Staff supports the opinion that the current ordinance is not effective. Limited
staff resources have prohibited the inspection process. Better and more effective
models are used by other local municipalities.
STATEMENT OF THE ISSUES:
The term "exotic animal" has been used interchangeably with "wild animal" in laws adopted
throughout government and lacks a universal definition. The City's current definition of "exotic
animal" is anv animal that is not a domestic animal- whether it is a native animal of this state or not
(Wheat Ridge Code of Laws, Article I, Sec. 4-14, 1998).
Today's society increasingly supports owning exotic animals - everything from corn snakes, turtles,
iguanas and lizards can be found in the homes of hobbyists. According to the American Pet
Products Manufacturers Association 2005-2006 National Pet Owner's Survey, "the number of
reptiles and amphibians being kept as pets in the United States, the world's largest consumer of
reptiles, increased by 22% from 2002."
Exotic animal owners can be very knowledgeable, taking the time to educate themselves before
purchasing an animal. Exotic animals can be alternative household pets and educational programs
reduce potential problems. On the other hand, exotic animals can pose a public safety threat when in
the care of irresponsible owners.
Regulating exotic animals transported into Colorado falls under the jurisdictions of the Division of
Wildlife, the Department of Health, and the Department of Agriculture. These agencies have
adopted regulations with three main goals: ensuring public health and safety (primarily to prevent
spreading diseases to people, domestic pets, livestock, and native wildlife), protecting domestic
livestock; and protecting the state's wildlife and wildlife resources.
The Colorado Division of Wildlife takes a conservative stance on exotic animal ownership. There
are numerous species not allowed as pets and some animals are allowed in captivity with a specific
license from the state.
The Colorado Department of Agriculture - Animal Industry Division is responsible for animal
health and bio-security in Colorado. The Department of Agriculture regulations are also aimed at
protecting all animals from cruelty through negligence, overwork, mistreatment, or lack of care.
Included in this division is the Pet Animal Care and Facilities Act (35-80-1-1, C.R.S.), which
delineates housing, care and treatment of animals. This regulation sets the standards of care for the
pet industry in Colorado.
Local jurisdictions have dealt with exotic animals through a number of methods. Currently, Arvada,
Boulder, Lakewood, and Englewood have stand-alone ordinances prohibiting the ownership of
certain exotic animals. The proposed ordinance for the City of Wheat Ridge is based on the model
provided by these listed cities.
ALTERNATIVES CONSIDERED:
1. Make no change to the current exotic animal ordinance.
2. Approve the proposed exotic animal ordinance as written.
FINANCIAL IMPACT:
No anticipated financial impact.
"1 move to approve Council Bill No. 22-2008, An Ordinance Amending Chapter 4, Section 14 of the
Code of Laws of the City Of Wheat Ridge, Which Concerns the Regulations of Exotic Animals
within the City on first reading, order it published, public hearing set for Monday, December 8, 2008
at 7:00 p.m. in City Council Chambers, and that it take effect 15 days after final publication."
Or
"I move to table indefinitely Council Bill No. 22-2008, An Ordinance Amending Chapter 4, Section
14 of the Code of Laws of the City Of Wheat Ridge, Which Concerns the Regulations of Exotic
Animals within the City, for the Following Reason(s): "
Report prepared by: Jim Lorentz, Police Commander
Report verified by: Dan Brennan, Chief of Police
ATTACHMENTS:
1. Council Bill No. 22-2008
2. Staff Report dated October 13, 2008
e ` City of
Wheatdge
POLICE DEPARTMENT
WHEAT RIDGE POLICE DEPARTMENT
MEMORANDUM
TO: Mayor Jerry DiTullio and City Council
VIA: Randy Young, City Manager
Dan Brennan, Chief of Police
FROM: Jim Lorentz, Division Commander
Support Services Division
DATE: October 13, 2008
SUBJECT: Staff Report: Proposed Exotic Animal Ordinance
EXECUTIVE SUMMARY:
Staff, in cooperation with the City Attorney's Office, recommends approval of the Exotic
Animal Ordinance, as shown in Attachment 1. The typical exotic animal owner has changed
over the last few years due to increased education and awareness programs, thereby creating a
more responsible owner. Enforcing violations of the exotic animal ordinance in the past has
been accomplished by receiving neighborhood complaints. Premise inspections have been
obsolete for several years due to the limitations on staff to conduct inspections and the need for
such inspection to ensure compliance is negligible. The revised ordinance will provide for the
prohibition of any animal considered to be a danger or threat to public safety.
STATEMENT OF THE ISSUES:
The term "exotic animal" has been used interchangeably with "wild animal" in laws adopted
throughout government and lacks a universal definition. The City's current definition of "exotic
animal" is any animal that is not a domestic animal, whether it is a native animal of this state or
not (Wheat Ridge Code of Laws, Article I, Sec. 4-14, 1998).
Today's society increasingly supports owning exotic animals - everything from corn snakes,
turtles, iguanas and lizards can be found in the homes of hobbyists. According to the American
Pet Products Manufacturers Association 2005-2006 National Pet Owner's Survey, "the number
of reptiles and amphibians being kept as pets in the United States, the world's largest consumer
of reptiles, increased by 22% from 2002."
Exotic animal owners can be very knowledgeable, taking the time to educate themselves before
purchasing an animal. Exotic animals can be alternative household pets and educational
programs reduce potential problems. On the other hand, exotic animals can pose a public safety
threat when in the care of irresponsible owners.
Regulating exotic animals transported into Colorado falls under the jurisdictions of the Division
of Wildlife, the Department of Health, and the Department of Agriculture. These agencies have
adopted regulations with three main goals: ensuring public health and safety (primarily to
prevent spreading diseases to people, domestic pets, livestock, and native wildlife), protecting
domestic livestock; and protecting the state's wildlife and wildlife resources.
The Colorado Division of Wildlife takes a conservative stance on exotic animal ownership.
There are numerous species not allowed as pets and some animals are allowed in captivity with a
specific license from the state.
The Colorado Department of Agriculture - Animal Industry Division is responsible for animal
health and bio-security in Colorado. The Department of Agriculture regulations also are aimed
at protecting all animals from cruelty through negligence, overwork, mistreatment, or lack of
care. Included in this division is the Pet Animal Care and Facilities Act (35-80-101, C.R.S.),
which delineates housing, care and treatment of animals. This regulation sets the standards of
care for the pet industry in Colorado.
Local jurisdictions have dealt with exotic animals through a number of methods. Currently,
Arvada, Boulder, Lakewood, and Englewood have stand-alone ordinances prohibiting the
ownership of certain exotic animals. The proposed ordinance for the City of Wheat Ridge is
based on the model provided by these listed cities.
RELATIVE FACTS:
1. The intent of the 1998 municipal exotic animal ordinance was to restrict ownership to
responsible households with the expectation that owners would self-report exotic animals
being brought to the city. The owner would complete an exotic animal permit application
and arrangements would be made to inspect the premises. Upon completion of the
inspection, a permit would be issued to the exotic animal owner.
2. Community Services Officers and a member of the Animal Welfare and Control
Commission were required to inspect premises annually where exotic animals reside.
3. Beginning in January, 2000, the Police Department's records management system reflects
the following statistics regarding exotic animals:
a. Ten (10) exotic animal permit applications have been received.
b. Five (5) exotic animal premise inspections have been completed.
c. Eleven (11) exotic animal permit applications have been cancelled due to the
owner relinquishing the animals or the owners moving from the area.
4. With only four (4) Community Services Officers performing three enforcement
functions, the City's enforcement resources and capacities are limited. Routine exotic
animal premise inspections have not been routinely performed.
5. Educational efforts by local exotic animal organizations have increased consumer safety
and awareness of potential dangers in housing exotic animals.
6. Community Services Officers recognize there are certain exotic animals which pose
considerable safety and health concerns to the public because of a volatile and
unpredictable disposition. These animals should be prohibited as pets.
7. Responsible owners voluntarily comply with recognized standards of care and have
thereby eliminated the need for annual premise inspections.
8. Irresponsible owners have consistently failed to request an exotic animal permit. When
Community Services Officers have been contacted with substantiated reports of neglect,
cruelty or public safety issues, the Community Services Officers have requested and
successfully obtained a municipal court order to remove the animal.
BOARD/COMMISSION
Members of the police department met with the Animal Welfare and Control Commission
regarding this ordinance change. The commission made some recommendations that Staff
included in the proposed ordinance:
1. Poisonous animals should include amphibians and arachnids and should be prohibited.
2. Non poisonous snakes with a weight greater than five (5) pounds should be prohibited.
The commission made the following other recommendations that staff did not include in the
proposed ordinance:
1. Prohibited animals should be specifically named (Other cities from existing models
do not feel the need to list each species, the list would be extensive and it would be
impossible to determine every animal for the list.)
2. The advantage of the permitting process is maintaining a list of locations housing
exotic animals. (Other cities have found that there is no reason to compile such a list
and if a list were to be made, it would need regular maintenance.)
3. The ordinance needs to define the term "exotic". (Other cities have used the term in a
similar way as the proposed ordinance without any difficulty.)
4. The current exotic animal ordinance has been effective and should not be revised.
(Staff supports the opinion that the current ordinance is not effective. Limited
resources have prohibited the inspection process. Better and effective models are
used by other local municipalities.)
ALTERNATIVES CONSIDERED:
L Make no change to the current exotic animal ordinance.
2. Incorporate recommendations made by the commission to the proposed ordinance
that staff did not include as the recommendations were determined to be unnecessary
and counter-effective to the model proposed.
3. Approve the proposed exotic animal ordinance as described by staff which includes
some recommendations made by the Animal Welfare Commission for the following
reasons:
a. The typical exotic animal owner has changed over the last few years due to
increased education and awareness programs, thereby creating a more responsible
owner.
b. Enforcing violations of the exotic animal ordinance has been accomplished by
receiving neighborhood complaints.
c. Premise inspections have been obsolete for several years.
d. The ordinance should allow for future trends as household pet trends change.
e. The ordinance should allow for prohibition of any animal considered to be a
danger or threat to public safety.
RECOMMENDATION:
The police department recommends City Council provide staff direction regarding the revision of
the exotic animal ordinance. Staff recommends approval of Alternative 3 and approval of the
revised ordinance.
JL:db
Attachments: 1) Exotic Animal Ordinance Revised 101308
2) Current Exotic or Wild Animals Ordinance
City of
W heat~dge
OFFICE of THE MAYOR
Memorandum
TO: City Council
Michael Snow, City Clerk
Randy Young, City Manager
Jerry Dahl, City Attorney
FROM: Jerry DiTullio, Mayor
DATE: December 9, 2008
RE: Veto of Ordinance #1425, Series of 2008
I am returning to you Ordinance #1425, Series of 2008, concerning the "Regulations of
Exotic Animals within the City", which I hereby veto pursuant to the authority granted
to me by Section 5.14 of the Home Rule Charter.
My reasons for vetoing this ordinance are as follows:
The ordinance effectively diminishes or eliminates the Animal Welfare and
Control Commission's duties.
2. The ordinance does not define or recommend new duties of the Animal Welfare
and Control Commission.
3. The ordinance does not address the status of current or expired exotic animal
permits within the City that were issued by the Animal Welfare and Control
Commission in past years.
4. The ordinance, as drafted, does not contain the "STRIKE" and/or "INSERT"
formatting which allows for improved understanding and readability by the public
and City Council.
In summary, the ordinance, as passed, is not in the best interest of the citizens and
businesses of Wheat Ridge. Ordinance #1425 is an excellent start, but the
ordinance needs to be further massaged by staff and Council. The ordinance needs
to be taken to the next level to truly attain world class customer service and
effectiveness for the community.
Sincerely,
Jerry DiTullio
Mayor of Wheat Ridge
Delivered to all Council Members this 9th day of December, 2008, as follows:
1) Placed in the US Mail, first class postage prepaid, addressed to each Council
Member at their home address
2) Emailed to each Council Member
3) Faxed to each Council Member
4) Placed in each Council Member's box at the Municipal Building.
2
Sec. 2-56. Animal welfare and control commission.
(a) The animal welfare and control commission shall advise the police chief, mayor, city
manager and city council on matters within the scope of this section and chapter 4 of this
Code, and on matters concerning the control and disposition of animals that may arise in
the city.
(b) The city council will appoint two (2) ex-officio members who are licensed
veterinarians that maintain a practice within the city, but need not be residents of the city,
in order to provide professional or technical advice to the commission.
(c) The animal welfare and control commission shall receive and review complaints
made concerning the administration and effect of this and other ordinances relating to
animals and shall make recommendations to the city council, mayor, city manager or
police chief on the appropriate action to be taken on complaints.
(d) The animal welfare and control commission shall maintain liaison with the county
health officer and shall report all matters that may endanger the public health to such
county health officer.
(e) The animal welfare and control commission shall approve or reject all applications
made for issuance of a kennel license pursuant to chapter 4 of this Code. The commission
shall make such determination for approval or rejection on the following standards:
(1) The need of the applicant for a number of animals in excess of limits set forth in
chapter 4 of this Code shall be balanced against the need of the community to maintain
itself in a healthful manner, free from unnecessary noise or other disturbance.
(2) The welfare of the animal shall be considered, but the welfare of any animal shall be
inferior to the welfare of any person.
(f) The commission shall make no determination regarding an application for a kennel
license until a public hearing has been held regarding the issuance of such license. Such
hearing shall be held in accordance with the following procedures:
(1) Notice of public hearing on an application for a kennel license shall be posted on the
property where the kennel is to be maintained for not less than ten (10) days prior to said
public hearing.
(2) Notice of public hearing shall be published in a newspaper of general circulation in
the city not less than ten (10) days prior to said hearing.
(3) At the public hearing, testimony shall be received from all parties who desire to give
testimony regarding the merits of the issuance of the kennel license. A record of
testimony offered at the public hearing shall be maintained by the animal control
commission.
(4) At the public hearing, the applicant for the license shall be permitted to appear in
person or with the assistance of counsel and shall be entitled to present evidence in his
own behalf and cross-examine witnesses against him. The applicant for a kennel license
shall receive written notice of public hearing, not less than ten (10) days prior to the
hearing.
(5) The animal welfare and control commission shall make findings of fact regarding
the issuance of a kennel license, based upon the testimony and evidence presented at the
public hearing. The decision of the animal welfare and control commission whether to
grant or reject an application or kennel license shall be based upon those findings of fact
made by the commission.
(6) The decision of the animal welfare and control commission may be appealed to the
city council upon the written request of the applicant within ten (10) days of the decision
by filing such appeal with the city clerk for inclusion and placement on the agenda of the
city council.
(g) Renewal of the kennel license shall be upon application. Reconsideration of renewal
denial shall be made only after a public hearing is held pursuant to subsection (f) above.
(h) It shall be the duty of the animal welfare and control commission to grant exceptions
to the prohibition against owning, possessing, harboring, selling, or trafficking in wild
animals as provided in section 4-14 of this Code. The animal welfare and control
commission shall grant exceptions to the restrictions of section 4-14 on the following
standards:
(1) The need of the applicant to keep an animal prohibited by section 4-14 of the Code
shall be balanced against the need of the community to maintain itself in a healthful
manner, free from unnecessary noise or other disturbance.
(2) The welfare of the animal shall be considered, but the welfare of any animal shall be
inferior to the welfare of any person.
(i) Exceptions to the restrictions set forth in section 4-14 of this Code shall be made only
after a public hearing is held, pursuant to the procedures set forth in subsection (f) above.
(Code 1977, § 2-20; Ord. No. 1998-1118, § 1, 5-18-98; Ord. No. 1998-1135, § 2, 11-9-
98; Ord. No. 1198-1144, § 10, 12-14-98)
Cross references: Animals and fowl, Ch. 4.
ATTACHMENT 1. Exotic Animal Ordinance, Revised
10/13/08
Sec. 4-14. Exotic or wild animals.
(a) Prohibited. It shall be unlawful for any person to own, possess, import, offer for sale, sell,
keep, maintain, harbor or allow anywhere in the City any of the following prohibited
animals, or any animal listed as endangered or threatened by the United States Fish and
Wildlife Service:
(1) all poisonous snakes, poisonous reptiles, and any other poisonous animal
including but not limited to amphibians and arachnids.
(2) nonpoisonous snakes with a weight greater than five (5) pounds
(3) nonhuman primates
(4) any species of feline other than ordinary domesticated house cats
(5) bears of any species
(6) all crocodilians
(7) raccoons, porcupines, skunks, badgers or other like species
(8) foxes, wolves, coyotes, or other species of canines other than dogs
(9) any other animal that is not classified as a domesticated animal.
(b) State and federal law. It shall be unlawful for any person to own, possess, import, offer
for sale, sell, keep, maintain, harbor or allow in the City any animal in violation of any
state or federal statute or regulation.
(c) Municipal court determination. Alleged domestication of any prohibited animal shall not
affect its status under this section. In the event of uncertainty about whether a particular
animal is a prohibited animal, it shall be presumed prohibited until the municipal court
determines that the animal is not prohibited pursuant to this section 4-14.
(d) Exceptions. The prohibitions of this section shall not apply to any of the following:
(1) a publicly or privately owned zoological park
(2) a bona fide state licensed pet shop
(3) a research institution using animals for scientific research
(4) a circus duly authorized to do business in the City
(5) a veterinary hospital operated by a veterinarian currently licensed by the State of
Colorado
(6) wildlife rehabilitators, falconers, or scientific collection permit holders who are
currently licensed by the Colorado Division of Wildlife
(e) Potbellied pigs. No potbellied pig, Sus scrota vittatus, nor any pig purporting to be a
potbellied pig, shall be possessed, harbored, kept, maintained or allowed within the City unless
the owner thereof complies with the requirements of this Chapter. It shall be unlawful for any
owner to fail to comply with the following requirements:
(1) No more than two (2) potbellied pigs may be kept at one residence or location,
provided, however, that an additional potbellied pig may be kept for each one
acre of property in excess of the minimum lot size;
(2) Every potbellied pig must be neutered or spayed by the age of four (4) months;
(3) No potbellied pig may weigh more than one hundred fifty (150) pounds
(4) Penned exterior areas confining potbellied pigs must be no closer than fifteen
(15) feet to a side or rear yard lot line and no closer than thirty (30) feet to a
residential structure located on an adjacent lot;
(5) Outdoor enclosures must be kept clean;
(6) A potbellied pig kept on residential property shall be kept as a pet for personal
enjoyment, and not kept or raised for breeding, sale or human consumption.
(7) All potbellied pigs must wear a harness with identification tags except when on
the owner's property.
vweigel Page 1 12/29/2008
CITY OF WHEAT RIDGE, COLORADO
INTRODUCED BY COUNCIL MEMBER
Council Bill No.
Ordinance No.
Series of 2009
TITLE: AN ORDINANCE AMENDING SECTION 4-14 OF THE
WHEAT RIDGE CODE OF LAWS PROHIBITING THE KEEPING OF
CERTAIN EXOTIC AND WILD ANIMALS
WHEREAS, pursuant to its home rule authority under Article XX of the
Colorado Constitution and C.R.S. § 31-15-401(1)(m), the City of Wheat Ridge
("City") possesses the authority to regulate and prohibit the keeping of animals
within the City; and
WHEREAS, pursuant to this authority, the Wheat Ridge City Council
("Council") previously enacted regulations regulating and prohibiting the keeping of
certain exotic and wild animals, such regulations codified as Section 4-14 of the
Wheat Ridge Code of Laws ("Code of Laws"); and
WHEREAS, the Council has received recommendations from the animal
welfare and control commission to make certain amendments to Section 4-14 of
the Code of Laws; and
WHEREAS, the Council desires to act on the recommendations of the animal
welfare and control commission and to amend Section 4-14 of the Code of Laws
as set forth herein.
NOW THEREFORE BE IT ORDAINED BY THE CITY COUNCIL OF THE CITY
OF WHEAT RIDGE, COLORADO AS FOLLOWS:
Section 1. Section 4-14 of the Code of Laws is hereby amended as follows:
Sec. 4-14. Exotic or wild animals.
(a) Prohibited. It shall be unlawful for any person to own,
possess, harber, IMPORT, OFFER FOR SALE, sell, 9F OR y ether
dv,•c n ; naIi whether it io a ivt fivc c 1 f +h•T o State + KEEP,
FrtcAeSt~ci-cn,, = cti~c
MAINTAIN, HARBOR OR ALLOW ANYWHERE IN THE CITY ANY OF
THE FOLLOWING PROHIBITED ANIMALS, OR ANY ANIMAL LISTED
AS ENDANGERED OR THREATENED BY THE UNITED STATES FISH
AND WILDLIFE SERVICE:
(1) ALL POISONOUS SNAKES, POISONOUS REPTILES, AND ANY
OTHER POISONOUS ANIMAL INCLUDING BUT NOT LIMITED
TO AMPHIBIANS AND ARACHNIDS;
(2) NONPOISONOUS SNAKES WITH A WEIGHT GREATER THAN
FIVE (5) POUNDS;
(3) NONHUMAN PRIMATES;
(4) ANY SPECIES OF FELINE OTHER THAN ORDINARY
DOMESTICATED HOUSE CATS;
(5) BEARS OF ANY SPECIES;
(6) ALL CROCODILIANS;
(7) RACCOONS, PORCUPINES, SKUNKS, BADGERS OR OTHER
LIKE SPECIES;
(8) FOXES, WOLVES, COYOTES, OR OTHER SPECIES OF
CANINES OTHER THAN DOGS; AND
(9) ANY OTHER ANIMAL THAT IS NOT CLASSIFIED AS A
DOMESTICATED ANIMAL.
(b) STATE AND FEDERAL LAW. IT SHALL BE UNLAWFUL
FOR ANY PERSON TO OWN, POSSESS, IMPORT, OFFER FOR SALE,
SELL, KEEP, MAINTAIN, HARBOR OR ALLOW IN THE CITY ANY
ANIMAL IN VIOLATION OF ANY STATE OR FEDERAL STATUTE OR
REGULATION.
may grant evoen#iens #e #h's ee#ien fer SUGGeSSiVe 'ells of #'m +
evne9d tNel••e (12) men#hs
(c) MUNICIPAL COURT DETERMINATION. ALLEGED
DOMESTICATION OF ANY PROHIBITED ANIMAL SHALL NOT AFFECT
ITS STATUS UNDER THIS SECTION. IN THE EVENT OF
UNCERTAINTY ABOUT WHETHER A PARTICULAR ANIMAL IS A
PROHIBITED ANIMAL, IT SHALL BE PRESUMED PROHIBITED UNTIL
THE MUNICIPAL COURT DETERMINES THAT THE ANIMAL IS NOT
PROHIBITED PURSUANT TO THIS SECTION 4-14. Pothe0
nt
(1) An
exse
t;GRs
;a
a b
the aRimal ^^n+rel ^ i
s
io
n f
m
y
p
g
a
y
.
ar
/h\ shall be limited as follo
ws•
rl
t
e thai (2)
hc11'c
o#
W~
Pie Fngr
9
-
i
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i
c
he k
t
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a
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Awe r sirlenee er leea#ien nrrnridefl h
-v
r~
e
ep
a
o
e cPatx
x
eY #ha# ^
g
addi#ienal he Lent for eaA
pig may
w
v
h
of
are ert
in GXGeSS of them FRi
l
t
i
i
y
e
s
R
FR6lFn
ze;
b. €V9FY p9tbellied pig .1st be ReUtared-OF spayed by
the a of f^yr (4) "'^^+h6i
G. No petbellied pig may weigh moFe than ene hundred
fi#ww (450) n wn.ds nor be taller than h'•e Rty tWe /07\
nshes in hcr,'y..ht•
ma'
d. The potbellied pig M °T,v ti--hoc°G,2Fti:r2dz'.S SWGn--oy~a
rnenae d pterinarian he affinially regastered
ne#hel"ed n
P°~P'gTw
closer than fifteen /'45\ feet to a s
he no
ide o rear
-
and 1"t 1'n and n ,.Ir.oer than thirh, (0
) feet to a
rs ide Rtial ahrrwstrwre lonatord o arlianen#
lo#•
OUtdOOF eRGIGSUF98 MUSt be ke
t Glean
f
p
.
;
Drier to the antis,. of a ent;GR
Gw
npr
s mils
Ye"ieW edUGatdnnal mater als n "idefd b
'
-
the animal
y
w.,elfa Fe anrd sentr` I n relatert t
and keeping ef potbellied pigs;
The anomal welfare and GRtrG' GGrnmi
r. t-he Gape
ssion shall
i
adopt FUIeG of n sedwr related to the
Gom
laiRtS Fe
aFdwn
the kee
in
of
etbell
pw of
Fev
i
s for
ied
p
g
g
p
g
p
and
g
p
r
tGPr4gt;eGt the S-I,p' th and the safety and
enia.,ment of adjaoe1t n erties and o
f
the
lli
Sus s ro
(2) The kee
°
in
o
i
s
fa 0tat ws w,hiGh '
'S
r
p
cv
c
p
g
p
g
,
i
i
i
i
tter!
vatic An
mal, shall he perm
n t
lone Illstrds# and shall ""t he swwhiest #o
he AgF
G wlhlral Two
the r en+s Af
cwihsea#dens /h\ and /p\
fZ\ Netwithstandinr. the r nets of chapter 76w the keeping
evoeptdr.n n arw# to this cwihcontion /o\ shall be deemed a
law.wfw l w of the affsGted n perk,
(d) EXCEPTIONS. THE PROHIBITIONS OF THIS SECTION
SHALL NOT APPLY TO ANY OF THE FOLLOWING: SpeG& an? mats
opumerated.
(1) A PUBLICLY OR PRIVATELY OWNED ZOOLOGICAL PARK; The
Aquarium fishes
Ps+toc;i;e hirds, aviary fiRGh,es, nfn. birds -(&<s;-geese, swans,
petbeA+edpigs, sus; n-ofa vfttat,.n,..h,nh is an impei4ed variety of swti„e
null ..,hinh shall be n nidered e)(Gtin n als)(2) A BONA FIDE STATE LICENSED PET SHOP; FXGt;G and wild
.Animals sh;;" nons'st of o.,on, ether nroat, r Within the Animal
(3) A RESEARCH INSTITUTION USING ANIMALS FOR SCIENTIFIC
RESEARCH;
(4) A CIRCUS DULY AUTHORIZED TO DO BUSINESS IN THE CITY;
(5) A VETERINARY HOSPITAL OPERATED BY A VETERINARIAN
CURRENTLY LICENSED BY THE STATE OF COLORADO; OR
(6) WILDLIFE REHABILITATORS, FALCONERS, OR SCIENTIFIC
COLLECTION PERMIT HOLDERS WHO ARE CURRENTLY
LICENSED BY THE COLORADO DIVISION OF WILDLIFE
(E) POTBELLIED PIGS. NO POTBELLIED PIG, SUS SCROFA
VITTATUS, NOR ANY PIG PURPORTING TO BE A POTBELLIED PIG,
SHALL BE POSSESSED, HARBORED, KEPT, MAINTAINED OR
ALLOWED WITHIN THE CITY UNLESS THE OWNER THEREOF
COMPLIES WITH THE REQUIREMENTS OF THIS CHAPTER. IT
SHALL BE UNLAWFUL FOR ANY OWNER TO FAIL TO COMPLY WITH
THE FOLLOWING REQUIREMENTS:
(1) NO MORE THAN TWO (2) POTBELLIED PIGS MAY BE KEPT AT
ONE RESIDENCE OR LOCATION, PROVIDED, HOWEVER,
THAT AN ADDITIONAL POTBELLIED PIG MAY BE KEPT FOR
EACH ONE ACRE OF PROPERTY IN EXCESS OF THE
MINIMUM LOT SIZE;
(2) EVERY POTBELLIED PIG MUST BE NEUTERED OR SPAYED
BY THE AGE OF FOUR (4) MONTHS;
(3) NO POTBELLIED PIG MAY WEIGH MORE THAN ONE
HUNDRED FIFTY (150) POUNDS;
(4) PENNED EXTERIOR AREAS CONFINING POTBELLIED PIGS
MUST BE NO CLOSER THAN FIFTEEN (15) FEET TO A SIDE OR
REAR YARD LOT LINE AND NO CLOSER THAN THIRTY (30)
FEET TO A RESIDENTIAL STRUCTURE LOCATED ON AN
ADJACENT LOT;
(5) OUTDOOR ENCLOSURES MUST BE KEPT CLEAN;
(6) A POTBELLIED PIG KEPT ON RESIDENTIAL PROPERTY SHALL
BE KEPT AS A PET FOR PERSONAL ENJOYMENT, AND NOT
KEPT OR RAISED FOR BREEDING, SALE OR HUMAN
CONSUMPTION; AND
(7) ALL POTBELLIED PIGS MUST WEAR A HARNESS WITH
IDENTIFICATION TAGS EXCEPTWHEN ON THE OWNER'S
PROPERTY.
Section 2. Conflicting Ordinances Repealed. If any section, subsection or
clause of this ordinance shall be deemed to be unconstitutional or otherwise
invalid, the validity of the remaining sections, subsections and clauses shall not be
affected thereby. All other ordinances or parts of ordinances in conflict with the
provisions of this ordinance are hereby repealed.
Section 3. Effective Date. This Ordinance shall take effect fifteen days
after final publication, as provided by Section 5.11 of the Charter.
INTRODUCED, READ, AND ADOPTED on first reading by a vote of to
on the day of , 2009, ordered published in full in
a newspaper of general circulation in the City of Wheat Ridge and Public Hearing and
consideration on final passage set for , 2009, at 7:00 o'clock
p.m., in the Council Chambers, 7500 West 29th Avenue, Wheat Ridge, Colorado.
READ, ADOPTED AND ORDERED PUBLISHED on second and final reading by
a vote of to , this day of 2009.
SIGNED by the Mayor on this day of 2009.
Jerry DiTullio, Mayor
ATTEST:
Michael Snow, City Clerk
Approved As To Form
Gerald E. Dahl, City Attorney
First Publication:
Second Publication:
Wheat Ridge Transcript:
Effective Date:
k
Blank Page
vehicles or non-motorized vehicles from parking on unimproved surfaces on existing residential
areas, or that a new ordinance be created for Chapter 15 prohibiting such parking or storage.
On November 12, the City Attorney submitted an amended version of the Code of Laws, Section
26-501 (D) (1) and a new section, 15-28 Improper Vehicular Parking or Storage for review.
Staff reviewed that draft language at an internal meeting in early December. On December 19,
2008, staff from Community Development, Public Works and the Police Department met a
second time to review these amended changes and suggested revisions have been forwarded to
the City Attorney for review and change.
STAFF RECOMMENDATION
The purpose of this report is to update City Council on the status of work being done by City
Staff regarding the concerns expressed by Mayor DiTullio and Councilmember Sang pertaining
to off-street parking. City Staff recommends that City Council provide consensus for staff to
continue to work with the City Attorney on drafting revisions to the City Code of Laws, Section
26-501 Off-Street Parking Requirements and a new ordinance, Section 15-28 Improper
Vehicular Parking or Storage that can be brought forward as a staff report to City Council at a
later date.
DB:KJ
Attachments: Section 26-501 - Off-Street Parking Requirements
Blank Page
ITEM 1 .
Blank Page
6 41( City of
WheatRdge
PUBLIC WORKS
Memorandum
TO: Mayor and City Council
THROUGH: Randy Young, Cit a ge
FROM: Tim Paranto, Director of Public Works
DATE: December 19, 2008
SUBJECT: Courtesy Benches
For many years Wheat Ridge has allowed advertising benches along its primary streets to
provide comfort for RTD bus riders. Staff has recently reviewed the advertising bench programs
employed by other cities. A change in the Wheat Ridge courtesy bench program is proposed for
2009.
CURRENT PROGRAM
The City Code provides that vendors may apply yearly for placement of advertising benches at
RTD bus stops throughout the City. The Code identifies the size and placement of the benches,
but does not regulate the advertisements placed on the benches. Two benches may be requested
for each bus stop in commercial, industrial, multifamily and hospital zones areas. The City
requires a minimal $35 permit fee for each bench approved.
PROPOSED PROGRAM
Staff recommends that a new courtesy bench program be established, similar to the existing Bus
Bench Shelter Program. Key elements of the proposed program include:
1. Proposals would be solicited from vendors for a ten year agreement.
2. Specific locations for benches would be pre-approved.
3. Except at heavily used bus stops, only one bench would be allowed.
4. Benches would be metal painted dark blue.
5. Benches would be mounted on concrete pads.
6. The back of the benches would display advertising, along with the City logo.
7. Trash containers would be required at all benches.
8. Trash containers would be emptied a minimum of twice weekly.
9. The bus stop area would be maintained by the vendor.
10. Snow would be cleared within 24 hours of the end of a storm.
11. All permit fees would be waived.
12. One non-advertising bench would be required for every five advertising benches placed.
13. Yearly contract payments would be solicited in the proposal, though no payment would
be required.
14. The program would be administered by the Public Works Department, instead of the
Community Development Department.
Should the City Council approve the development of a new courtesy bench program, changes in
the City Code will be proposed in January to preempt the renewal cycle of the existing program.
ITEM 2.
Blank Page
City of
w Wheatldge
COMMUNITY DEVELOPMENT
Memorandum
TO: Mayor and City Council
THROUGH: Randy Young, CYi<hrn/ager
FROM: Kenneth Johnstone, Community Development Director
Sally Payne, Senior Planner
DATE: December 23, 2008
SUBJECT: January 5, 2009 City Council and Planning Commission joint study
session - Envision Wheat Ridge - A Plan for a Bright Future
City Council awarded a contract to Clarion Associates in November to assist the City
with an update to the Comprehensive Plan. The name chosen for the Comprehensive
Plan update is Envision Wheat Ridge - A Plan for a Bri t Future. Working with
Clarion and its team, City staff kicked-off the Comprehensive Plan update in December.
On November 10, City Council ratified Mayoral appointments to the Citizens Advisory
Committee (CAC). The first CAC meeting was held on December 2. This was a very
productive and interactive meeting where a list of Key Issues was generated that the CAC
members felt needed to be strategically addressed in order for the comprehensive plan
update to be successful. This list is attached for your review. This is a preliminary list of
issues as the comprehensive plan update team would like to obtain input from City
Council and Planning Commission at the January 5 meeting and from citizens at the first
public meeting on January 13, 2009.
Ongoing and varied citizen involvement activities are critical to development of a
comprehensive plan. As part of the kick-off, Clarion developed a Citizen Participation
Plan specifically for the City of Wheat Ridge. The Plan is attached for your review. As
you will see, there are a variety of ways for citizens to be involved and express their
opinions regarding the comprehensive plan. In addition, a three month schedule of
comprehensive plan meeting dates is attached.
At the January 5 study session, Lesli Ellis and Ben Herman, Principals of Clarion
Associates and Co-Project Managers of Envision Wheat Ridge, will give an overview of
the comprehensive plan update project and process to date. Specifically, they would like
City Council and Planning Commission feedback on the Key Issues and the Community
Participation Plan documents that are attached.
If you have any questions prior to the January 5, 2009 study session, please contact Sally
Payne at 303-235-2852 or spa i&ci.wheatrid eg co.us.
Blank Page
Envision
WHEAT RIDGE
A Plon For A Bright Future
Envision Wheat Ridae
Community Participation Plan
Draft- 12/16/08
One of the primary objectives of this Comprehensive Plan update effort is to engage residents,
businesses, elected and appointed officials, and other stakeholders throughout the process.
Each of the community involvement strategies is described briefly below.
➢ Project Website (www.ENVISIONWheatRidge.com)
A project website will be a way for the community to get information and share ideas 24-7.
The website will be linked through the city's website but operate independently and will
contain up-to-date draft materials, schedules, and notices of events. The website will also
provide an opportunity for community members to send comments and participate in on-line
polls three times during the process.
➢ Other Materials: Newsletters and Local Media
The consultant will help prepare three newsletters, regular project updates for the local media,
and meeting notices (press releases) for the newspaper and other local media, as noted in
the project schedule. From time-to-time, the consultant would be available to meet with
radio, television, or newspaper to discuss the project.
➢ Community Workshops and Open Houses (up to 5)
Community workshops and open houses will occur at key points during the process (up to five
times). These workshops will be well-publicized events designed to invite citizens to participate
in hands-on planning for the future, reviewing materials, and convey questions, concerns, and
suggestions to the planning team. All workshops will include interactive meeting materials
designed for hands-on participation and discussion among community members. A key pad
polling system is available to use at one or more meetings. Successful and productive
meetings also involve food! When possible, it is helpful to "piggy-back" these events onto
other local events that draw people. (See below for list of events.)
Citizen Advisory Committee (CAC) Meetings (up to 6)
The Citizen Advisory Committee will help guide the development of the plan, serving as a
sounding board and pivotal group for the plan's direction. The committee covers a broad
cross-section of the community, including neighborhood representatives, business
representatives, development community, and other stakeholders. The project team will meet
with the CAC throughout the process to discuss issues and ideas and receive input on draft
work products.
➢ Technical Advisory Committee (TAC) Meetings (up to 4)
A technical group will represent public works, public safety, and other departments of the city.
This group could also be broadened to include schools, utilities, and other agencies to verify
Envision Wheat Ridge - Community Participation Plan
technical accuracy of information and trends. This group may not need to meet as frequently
as the CAC but will meet at least four times. The group would receive all work products and
have opportunities to review and provide technical advice throughout the effort.
➢ City Council and Planning Commission Joint Meetings
The consultant will prepare for and facilitate periodic joint updates with the City Council and
the Planning Commission-to provide progress updates, present preliminary findings and
alternative solutions, and hear policy direction.
One-on-One Interviews
Team members will interview key officials and stakeholders in Wheat Ridge (e.g. business
owners, neighborhood representatives, developers, appointed officials, and others) to address
plan issues and discuss with these persons their impressions of the strengths and weaknesses of
the current ordinances, existing policies (including the Neighborhood Revitalization Strategy
(NRS)), and their general expectations of the planning effort.
➢ Direct Notification
Using contact information available in the city, website registration, the planning team will
send email notification to community members regarding events and opportunities to provide
feedback on the plan. Sources might include:
✓ Mayor's Matters E-Newsletter
➢ Community Events
Successful efforts might include arts festivals, farmers markets, or community cookouts as a
means of getting the word out about the planning process and interacting with people.
Wheat Ridge community events are:
✓ Annual City of Wheat Ridge Open House (September)
✓ Carnation Festival (August)
✓ Farmer's Market
✓ Recreation Center, Senior Center and Senior Resource Center activities
➢ Business and Service Group Events
Targeted efforts to inform the public and to solicit feedback might include a brief presentation
at regularly scheduled business and service group events. Some identified Wheat Ridge
business and service groups are:
✓ Wheat Ridge 2020 Board of Directors Meetings
✓ Wheat Ridge Business Association Meetings (Enterprise Wheat Ridge)
✓ Business Expo. Showcase
✓ Rotary, Optimist and Kiwanis Clubs
✓ Religious Organizations
CLARION I FEHR & PEERS I ARLAND
Envision Wheat Ridge - Community Participation Plan
Wheat Ridge Schools
As a means to inform parents and to engage community youth, successful community
outreach might include coordination with the school district. Possible school resources
include:
✓ Elementary School Monday folders for parents
✓ PTA meetings
✓ Farmer's 5000 (September)
Outreach Schedule
The general schedule for the project is outlined below. This schedule will be reviewed and
updated quarterly. Please refer to the 3 Month Schedule for specific dates of outreach
activities.
Dn - R-N::ed Nnrw.aev 10, 2DD6
Ste
s
200B
7664
p
Nov
Dea
Jan
Feb
Mar
Ape
May
Jezn
Jul
AaS
Sept
Oct
Nov
Part 1:: Praied Start-up and Profile
_ _
-ILT Po}kc 3}3
Part 2.. Vision and Goals
Part W Plan - Future' Land Use Plan and Etements
Part 4, . impfearent-Plan lmplea relation
Pad 5 Draft and Final Plan aad'Adoplion
Events
W-3rit-(u.,clod.. -cnepoa ~:a~o~e,j
RI
VER
Newafdrer:,+Ne:sspaper Fvie~'c
cxa. as :orr c~,ro, {cxcj rwtKe„g. (6)
Technanl Ad ne Com F--tUg1 -ling(3j
c~mmwiry hteelirzg (5;
19
?aiM COy Cevnfll cnc K ,,ep eom~im Skdy °~=lion f4k
'
A6.,K. Y ads.gs (2}
Wheat Ridge Comprehensive Plan Update-- 3 Month Schedule
steps
Nw DO
I) ec DO Jan 49 Feb 09
3
10
17
24
t
9
15
22 29 5 12
19
26
2
Part 1: Purled Start-U
d P
f
l
p an
i
e
ra
Par] 2: Vision and Goats -
CAC
fri{Oee 2j
Part 3, Plan- Future Land U. Plan and Elemenfs
-Covunanfij Mtg rl
G
AG .72
Part 4: Implemeat - Plan Implementation
{Jan 13)
(Tentative)
Part S; Draft and Plan] Plan and Adoption
Events
+46sae [ndod og our-Sne poll ~E-skvst
:o-
,3.
€ mi J etw,.iN+I ,Fa,M.div
Envision Wheat Ridge - Community Paiticipaton Plan,
Coordination of Optional Outreach Activities
Additional public outreach activities may be scheduled on an as-needed basis. Some of the
events listed below may be the responsibility of staff to coordinate and/or facilitate rather
than the consultant team.
Activity
Timing
Contact Person
Coordination
Mayor's Matters E-
Email before
Heather Geyer
City/Clarion
Newsletter
Community
meeting(s)
Elementary School Monday
Inserts before
City
folders for parents
Community
meeting(s)
Recreation Center, Senior
Ongoing - post
Joyce Manwaring
City/Clarion
Center and Senior
flyers/posters
Resource Center activities
Wheat Ridge 2020 Board of
Ongoing updates
Don Seyfer/Susan
City/Clarion
Directors Meetings
Teale
Wheat Ridge Business
Ongoing updates
Ryan Stachelski/
City/Clarion
Association Meetings
John Marriot/ Rick
(Enterprise Wheat Ridge,
Bender/ Denise
Applewood Business
Stephens
Association, Wheat Ridge
Business District
PTA meetings
City
Business Expo. Showcase
TBA
Ran Stachelski
City
Rotary, Optimist and
City
Kiwanis Clubs
Religious Organizations
City
Farmer's Market
Summer
Ryan Sfachelski
City
Carnation Festival
August
Tom Meiers
City
Annual City of Wheat Ridge
September
Ken Johnstone
City/Clarion
Open House
Farmer's 5000
September
Tom Meiers
City
CLARION I FEHR & PEERS I ARLAND
Envision
WHEAT RIDGE
A Plan For A Bright Future
KEY ISSUES for the Comprehensive Plan
Draft- 12109108
This list of issues identifies some of the topics that the Envision Wheat Ridge plan
needs to strategically address to be a successful plan. The list has been
updated with feedback from the staff team and the Citizen Advisory
Committee at their meeting in December. Additional topics, feedback and
refinement will be included after the public meeting and interviews in January
2009.
Issues the Plan will address are grouped into the following categories:
• Economic Development and Stability
• Land Use and Housing
• Community
• Transportation
• Other
The Citizen Advisory Committee helped identify the following priority issues:
• Economic development and fiscal stability
• Competitive housing choices
• Attracting people to Wheat Ridge
• Balance of land uses (jobs and retail)
• Multi-modal transportation (especially sidewalks and bicycle lanes)
• Continued investment in parks and recreation
• Sustainable and healthy community
Economic Development and Stability
The Comprehensive Plan should address the following Economic Development
and Fiscal Stability issues:
• Future Employment and Retail Centers-Economic Opportunities: The
plan should address opportunities for future employment and retail
centers in the community (e.g., near FasTracks station or future Cabelas)
and opportunities and niches for Wheat Ridge.
• Redevelopment and Infill Opportunities: The plan should identify areas
prime for redevelopment and/or infill development and address barriers
to make the community friendlier to and ready for such development.
• Fiscal Stability: The plan should address the fiscal realities of the city (as
an inner-ring suburb, if staying with the status-quo model) and address
how to achieve sustainable revenue sources to maintain current levels of
City services.
Land Use and Housin
The Comprehensive Plan should address the following Land Use and Housing
issues:
• Competitive Housing Stock and Neighborhoods: The plan should address
how to increase the variety of housing options beyond the single-family
ranch home (i.e., explore options for accessory dwelling units in some
existing neighborhoods) and how to reinvest in existing neighborhoods to
make them more appealing.
• Balanced Land Uses: The plan should address how to achieve a
sustainable balance of housing, retail, and employment land uses in the
future.
• Central Activity Centers: The plan should identify areas for future activity
centers or "town centers" (including a possible downtown area, civic
center complex, and/or medical service area near the Exempla Lutheran
Medical Center) to promote a sense of place and to encourage
investment.
Community Character and Livability
The Comprehensive Plan should address the following Community Character
and Livablity issues:
• Community Identity and Image: The plan should address how to promote
the community's assets (i.e. proximity to downtown, sense of community,
number of parks) in order to attract new residents to live, work, shop and
recreate in Wheat Ridge.
• Inclusive Community-Age Groups/Diverse Population: The large aging
population and increased presence of young families and ethnic groups
makes it necessary to address how the community accommodates the
needs of different types of households in the future.
Draft -December 9, 2008 Page 2
• Schools: The plan should address how quality schools are needed, and
work with the school district in order to attract primary employers and
young families to the community.
Active, Healthy Community: The plan should identify barriers for active
lifestyles (i.e., pedestrian connectivity) and focus on promoting a healthy
lifestyle for residents.
• Public Safety and Community Engagement: The Strategic Analysis For
Effective Response (S.A.F.E.R.) Wheat Ridge Community Policing Model
should be utilized to decrease high crime rates in certain locations of the
community (i.e., 1-70/Kipling hotel area) and to engage the
neighborhoods to address traffic and code enforcement issues.
Transportation
The Comprehensive Plan should address the following Transportation issues:
• Comprehensive Transportation Framework/Multiple Modes: The plan
should update the comprehensive transportation framework to address all
future modes of travel-vehicles, transit, bicycles, and pedestrians.
• Transportation Funding: The plan should examine how to fund
transportation projects and maintenance of existing facilities, given state
and federal shortages of funding.
• Bicycle, Pedestrian Facilities and Connectivity: Bicycle and Pedestrian
Transportation Plans are difficult to implement within the existing
infrastructure and the trail systems lack connectivity.
Other
The Comprehensive Plan should address the following other issues:
• Parks and Recreation: The plan should address how to continue to fully
utilize parks and recreation facilities and how to make them more
noticeable and accessible for all user groups.
• Role of the Neighborhood Revitalization Strategy (NRS) and Other Plans:
The plan should also identify and carry forward relevant policies of the
NRS and the 2000 Comprehensive Plan and subarea plans.
Draft - December 9. 2008 Page 3
• Sustainable Development: The plan should include elements on
promoting environmentally conscious, responsible, and progressive
development.
Draft -December 9, 2008 Page 4
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