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HomeMy WebLinkAboutCity Council Agenda Packet 10-14-19AGENDA CITY COUNCIL MEETING CITY OF WHEAT RIDGE, COLORADO 7500 WEST 29TH AVENUE, MUNICIPAL BUILDING October 14, 2019 7:00 p.m. Individuals with disabilities are encouraged to participate in all public meetings sponsored by the City of Wheat Ridge. Call Sara Spaulding, Public Information Officer, at 303-235-2877 at least one week in advance of a meeting if you are interested in participating and need inclusion assistance. CALL TO ORDER PLEDGE OF ALLEGIANCE ROLL CALL OF MEMBERS APPROVAL OF MINUTES APPROVAL OF AGENDA CITIZENS’ RIGHT TO SPEAK a. Citizens, who wish, may speak on any matter not on the Agenda for a maximum of 3 minutes and sign the PUBLIC COMMENT ROSTER. b. Citizens who wish to speak on an Agenda Item, please sign the GENERAL AGENDA ROSTER. c. Citizens who wish to speak on a Public Hearing item, please sign the PUBLIC HEARING ROSTER before the item is called to be heard. d. Citizens who wish to speak on Study Session Agenda Items for a maximum of 3 minutes and sign the STUDY SESSION AGENDA ROSTER. 1. CONSENT AGENDA PUBLIC HEARINGS AND ORDINANCES ON SECOND READING 2. Resolution No. 56-2019 – a resolution adopting the City Budget and appropriating sums of money to the various funds and spending agencies for the City of Wheat Ridge, Colorado for the 2020 Budget Year CITY COUNCIL AGENDA: October 14, 2019 Page -2- ORDINANCES ON FIRST READING 3. Council Bill No. 16-2019 – an ordinance amending section 26-205 of the Wheat Ridge Code of Laws concerning the regulation of minor accessory structures in the Residential-One zone district (Case No. ZOA-19-04) 4. Council Bill No. 17-2019 – an ordinance vacating any interest held by the City in a portion of West 38th Avenue, a public roadway DECISIONS, RESOLUTIONS AND MOTIONS 5. Resolution No. 57-2019 – a resolution levying general property taxes for the year 2019, to help defray the costs of government for the City of Wheat Ridge, Colorado for the 2020 budget year 6. Motion to cancel the December 23, 2019, regular business meeting of the Wheat Ridge City Council due to the Christmas holiday CITY MANAGER’S MATTERS CITY ATTORNEY’S MATTERS ELECTED OFFICIALS’ MATTERS ADJOURNMENT ITEM NO: DATE: October 14, 2019 REQUEST FOR CITY COUNCIL ACTION TITLE: RESOLUTION NO. 56-2019 - A RESOLUTION ADOPTING THE CITY BUDGET AND APPROPRIATING SUMS OF MONEY TO THE VARIOUS FUNDS AND SPENDING AGENCIES FOR THE CITY OF WHEAT RIDGE, COLORADO FOR THE 2020 BUDGET YEAR PUBLIC HEARING ORDINANCES FOR 1ST READING BIDS/MOTIONS ORDINANCES FOR 2ND READING RESOLUTIONS QUASI-JUDICIAL: YES NO ___________________________________ ______________________________ Administrative Services Director City Manager ISSUE: Sections 10.7 and 10.9 of the Wheat Ridge City Charter require that a public hearing on the proposed budget be conducted before its final adoption and that the budget be adopted by resolution on or before the final day (December 15, 2019) established by state statute for the certification of the next year’s tax levy to the county. The proposed 2020 budget includes the following: •A General Fund budget in the amount of $39,435,240 •An unrestricted fund balance of $7,404,800 or 18.8% of expenditures •A General Fund transfer of $3,600,000 to the Capital Improvement Program (CIP), and $100,000 to the Equipment Replacement Fund •A 7.9% increase in the General Fund budget compared to the adjusted 2019 Budget •Proposed CIP Fund in the amount of $18,361,877 •Proposed 2E Bond Fund in the total amount of $15,109,308 including $3,498,800 fordebt service •Special Revenue Funds in the amount of $4,022,231 •Proposed budget (all funds) in the amount of $76,928,656 2 Council Action Form – Adopting the 2020 City Budget October 14, 2019 Page 2 PRIOR ACTION: • June 17, 2019 – the Outside Agency Program Review Committee presented their recommendations to City Council • July 8, 2019 – first public meeting to provide opportunity for citizens to comment on the budget • August 12, 2019 – second public meeting to provide opportunity for citizens to comment on the budget • August 26, 2019 – Carnation Festival Committee, Sustainable Wheat Ridge, Localworks and Wheat Ridge Business District presented their 2020 budget requests to City Council • September 4, 2019 – proposed 2020 budget books were distributed to City Council and made available in the City Clerk’s Office for public review • September 12, 2019 – proposed 2020 budget made available online for the public to review • September 16, 2019 – proposed 2020 budget presented to City Council FINANCIAL IMPACT: A total budget of $76,928,656 (all funds) is proposed. BACKGROUND: At the September 16, 2019 Study Session, City Council provided staff with consensus to bring the proposed budget forward to public hearing and adoption with the following change: Include an appropriation sufficient to fund a part-time (0.5 FTE) Sustainability Coordinator to implement the priorities of the Sustainable Wheat Ridge Action Plan and manage the Sustainable Neighborhoods program. A total amount of $42,493 for salary and benefits has been included to fund this position. Additionally, a total amount of $92,568 for salary and benefits has been added for the Sr. Neighborhood Planner, previously approved by council as part of the NRS implementation plan. This position was unfunded by mistake in the original proposed 2020 Budget. The summary that follows includes funds for both positions for a total increase of $135,061 to the 2020 General Fund Budget. OVERALL SUMMARY The total 2020 Proposed Budget including the General Fund, the CIP Fund, seven special revenue funds and the 2E Investing 4 the Future Bond Fund is $76,928,656. The Budget is based on projected revenues of $64,374,089. The beginning fund balance for 2020 is projected at $29,609,844, which brings the total available funds to $93,983,933. This will provide for a projected ending fund balance of $17,055,277. Council Action Form – Adopting the 2020 City Budget October 14, 2019 Page 3 General Fund $39,435,240 Capital Improvement Program (CIP) Fund $18,361,877 Special Revenue Funds $4,022,231 2E Investing 4 the Future Bond Fund $15,109,308 Total $76,928,656 General Fund General Fund revenue is projected at $39,870,759, which is a 10% increase compared to 2019 year-end estimated revenues and a 12% increase compared to what was originally budgeted in 2019. In addition, the beginning fund balance for 2020 is projected at $13,209,311 which brings the total available funds for the General Fund to $53,080,070. General Fund expenditures total $39,435,240 excluding transfers. General Fund expenditures represent a 7.9% increase compared to the adjusted 2019 Budget. The ending fund balance for the General Fund is projected at $9,944,830 of which $7,404,800 (18.8% of operating expenditures) is considered unrestricted. The City’s financial policies require that the City maintain a minimum unrestricted fund balance of at least two months or approximately 17% of its General Fund operating expenditures, as recommended by the Government Finance Officers Association. Capital Improvement Program (CIP) Fund CIP Fund revenue is projected at $18,231,059 ($3,600,000 transferred from the General Fund) which is a 127% increase compared to the 2019 estimated revenue. In addition, the beginning fund balance for 2020 is projected at $254,015, which brings the total available funds for the CIP Fund to $18,485,074. CIP expenditures total $18,361,877, which is an 87% increase compared to the adjusted 2019 Budget. This will provide for a projected ending fund balance of $123,197. The Proposed 2020 CIP budget includes the following projects: • $14.1 million for completion of construction plans, ROW acquisition and initial construction for the Wadsworth Blvd. widening project • $1.8 million for street preventative maintenance, primarily on Upham St. 44th Ave., 43rd Dr. and Ridge Road • $830,000 for improvements to the intersection at 38th Ave. and Kipling St. • $410,000 for Youngfield St. bridge maintenance • $280,000 for 26th and Fenton drainage project • $150,000 for gateway signage program • $110,000 for sidewalk improvements along the west side of Marshall St. to the Clear Creek Trail • $107,618 for municipal facility security upgrades • $100,000 for pavement striping maintenance • $100,000 for traffic signal improvements • $85,000 for aerial photography and GIS updates Council Action Form – Adopting the 2020 City Budget October 14, 2019 Page 4 • $75,000 for Clear Creek Crossing project plan review and inspection services • $50,000 for citywide ADA infrastructure improvements • $35,000 for Neighborhood Traffic Management Program • $25,000 for Clear Creek Master Plan update • $25,000 for neighborhood street light program • $20,000 for City Hall parking lot maintenance • $15,000 for Anderson Building workspace Special Revenue Fund – Open Space Open Space revenue is projected at $2,238,070 which is a 19% decrease compared to the 2019 estimated revenue. The large decrease is primarily due to a transfer in the amount of $900,000 in 2018 from the General Fund for The Green project. The beginning fund balance for 2020 is projected at $924,170, which brings the total available funds for the Open Space Fund to $3,162,240. Open Space projects for 2020 include: • Construction of “The Green” community plaza • Trail improvements from Prospect Park to West Bridge • Open Space Master Plan • Open space and park maintenance projects Funding is also appropriated for seven Parks maintenance workers and the Forestry and Open Space Supervisor. Open Space expenditures total $2,016,941, which is a 47% decrease compared to the adjusted 2019 Budget. This will provide for a projected ending fund balance of $1,145,299, of which $305,732 is restricted to park and trail improvements at the Wheat Ridge Ward station area. The future five-year Open Space Budget proposes the continuation of miscellaneous open space improvements, parks maintenance projects including improvements to Panorama Park tennis courts and Anderson Park parking lot, Prospect Park improvements and funding for Parks employees. Special Revenue Fund – Conservation Trust Conservation Trust revenue is projected at $340,000, which is an 11% decrease compared to the 2019 estimated revenue. In addition, the beginning fund balance for 2020 is projected at $524,545, which brings the total available funds for the Conservation Trust Fund to $864,545. Conservation Trust projects for 2020 include: • Prospect Park renovation Phase II • Recreation Center maintenance projects • New playground at Bonnie’s Park • Resurface of tennis and basketball courts at Panorama Park • Parks maintenance projects Council Action Form – Adopting the 2020 City Budget October 14, 2019 Page 5 Conservation Trust expenditures total $821,950, which is a 171% increase compared to the adjusted 2019 Budget. This will provide for a projected ending fund balance of $42,595. The future five-year Conservation Trust Budget proposes to provide funds for Recreation Center maintenance needs, parks maintenance projects, resurfacing of tennis/basketball courts, Apel Bacher playground replacement, and other facility improvements. Special Revenue Funds – Other Several other Special Revenue Funds are also included in this Budget to track revenues and expenditures that are designated by law to be used for specific purposes or are used to simplify the budgeting process. Those funds include Public Art, Police Investigation, Municipal Court, Equipment Replacement, and Crime Prevention/Code Enforcement. Detailed revenue and expenditure information for these funds can be found in the Special Revenue Funds and the Line Item Accounts sections of the Budget. Special Revenue Fund – Recreation Center Prior to 2020, Recreation Center revenues and expenditures were reported in a Special Revenue Fund 64. The Recreation Center Fund was established by City Council when Wheat Ridge voters approved an increase to the sales and use tax rate in November of 1997 to fund the construction and operation of a public recreation center. The 1/2% retail sales and use tax rate imposed by the City was effective January 1, 1998 and was terminated in March 2002 when a total of $12,350,000 had been raised. The Recreation Center Fund has never been fully, financially self-sufficient as it did not account for internal services such as information technology and human resources costs which were covered under the General Fund. Furthermore, as the center aged and as personnel and operational costs increased, annual expenditures in excess of revenues were funded from Recreation Center Fund’s reserves. The reserves are now nearly depleted, therefore all revenues and expenditures associated with the Recreation Center will be budgeted in the General Fund. The estimated 2019 year-end balance of the Recreation Center Fund is $70,977. Once Council dissolves the Recreation Center Special Revenue Fund, the balance will be transferred to the General Fund. Recreation Center related revenues are projected to be $2,160,506 and expenditures are projected to be $2,480,355 in 2020. 2E Investing 4 the Future Fund The 2E Investing 4 the Future Fund was created in 2017 as a special fund to account for the 2E bond and debt activity. 2020 revenues from the 0.5% sales and use tax, interest and reimbursements are projected at $6,368,506. In addition, the beginning fund balance for 2020 is projected at $13,774,087 which brings the total available funds for the 2E Fund to $20,142,593 2E Fund expenditures total $15,109,308, of which $11,610,508 is for 2E project expenditures and $3,498,800 is for debt service on the 2E bonds. This will provide for a projected ending fund balance of $5,033,285 Council Action Form – Adopting the 2020 City Budget October 14, 2019 Page 6 2E Investing 4 the Future projects for 2020 include: • Reconstruction of streets adjacent to the Wheat Ridge Ward Station including Ridge Road, 52nd Avenue, Tabor Street and linear park and pedestrian bridge • Acquisition of right-of-way and construction required for the reconstruction of Wadsworth Boulevard SHORT-TERM FISCAL CHALLENGES/OPPORTUNITIES Sales Tax and General Fund Revenue Sales tax, the City’s largest revenue source, for 2020 is projected to increase by 5.25% compared to 2019 estimated revenue. Approximately 70% of this increase is attributed to new businesses at the Applewood Shopping Center including Hobby Lobby, HomeGoods, Ulta, Sierra Trading Post and Hacienda Colorado. The remaining increase represents a modest 1.5% projection over estimated year-end sales tax revenues, accounting for the threat of an economic downtown in 2020. Overall, total General Fund revenue for 2020 is projected to increase by 10% compared to 2019 year-end estimated revenue and increase by 12% compared to the original 2019 budget. Aside from the sales tax increase described above, this is largely due to the increase of building-related use tax and other fees. Redevelopment Projects Walmart closed its doors in Wheat Ridge on July 7, 2017. Regency Centers, the owner of the Applewood Shopping Center where Walmart was located, has backfilled the vacant Walmart with four national retail tenants including Hobby Lobby, Ulta, HomeGoods and Sierra Trading Post. All four new retail establishments are expected to be open by the end of 2019. These four tenants are projected to generate between $800,000 and $900,000 in sales tax revenue annually and should have a positive impact on the sales of other retail tenants in the center. The Corners at Wheat Ridge is still under construction, with full build-out anticipated sometime in 2020. The anchor tenant, Lucky’s Market, opened on August 6, 2018 and several other retail tenants opened in 2018 and 2019. When the project is fully built out, an additional 75,000 sq. ft. of commercial retail space will be added to the City. The project is projected to generate approximately $650,000 in sales tax revenue annually. The 2020 budget includes approximately $600,000 in revenue from The Corners project. The Clear Creek Crossing project entitlements and public finance agreement were finalized and approved in 2018. The developer is finalizing the leasing plan for potential tenants to include retail, residential, a medical campus, hospitality and entertainment. Portions of the retail component of the project will likely open at the end of 2020. No new sales tax revenue from this project is included in the 2020 budget. The Longs Peak Metropolitan District (LPMD) will reimburse the City $507,038 for the environmental assessment expense the City incurred over the last several years for the I-70 hook ramp project. The reimbursement will occur when the LPMD issues bonds for the Clear Creek Crossing project, likely in 2020. This reimbursement revenue has not been factored into the 2020 budget. Once the project is fully built out, sales tax, lodging, admissions and use tax revenue is projected to total $1.8 million annually. Council Action Form – Adopting the 2020 City Budget October 14, 2019 Page 7 Several other commercial redevelopment projects across the City are projected to increase sales tax revenue starting sometime in 2020. Additional restaurant, fast casual food options and retail will be constructed across the City including a fast casual restaurant at the Applewood Shopping Center, a mixed-use retail building at the Kipling Ridge project and other neighborhood commercial retail options at the West End 38 project. In total, all projects are projected to generate approximately $150,000 to $200,000 in tax revenue annually which has not been accounted for in the 2020 budget. WHEAT RIDGE 2035 VISION TOPICS AND SMART GOALS The Mayor, City Council and staff work together periodically to develop and update a strategic plan that includes a vision, goals and priorities. City Council met in the spring of 2017 and developed an updated Vision 2035 to include Vision Topics and Smart Goals. Staff used the most current vision topics and strategic priorities to guide the development and prioritize projects for the 2020 Budget. Vision Topics: 1. Wheat Ridge is an attractive and inviting City 2. Wheat Ridge is a community for families 3. Wheat Ridge has great neighborhoods 4. Wheat Ridge has a choice of economically viable commercial areas 5. Wheat Ridge has diverse transportation 6. Wheat Ridge is committed to environmental stewardship 7. Wheat Ridge residents enjoy an active, healthy lifestyle 8. Wheat Ridge residents are proud of their hometown 2019/2020 Strategic Priorities: 1. Update the Neighborhood Revitalization Strategy - completed 2. Develop an I-70/Kipling Corridor Strategy to address crime, aesthetics, and redevelopment opportunities 3. Finalize design of 38th Avenue streetscape 4. Work with the Colorado Department of Transportation to prioritize I-70/Kipling improvements 5. Set a policy on “shared housing” (e.g. Airbnb, VRBO) Council’s Smart Goals are outlined in the Vision and Goals section of this document. The Proposed 2020 Budget includes several priority expenditures that play an important role in helping the City achieve the strategic vision. Strategic Priorities: • Urban renewal funding for Renewal Wheat Ridge (RWR) projects $300,000 • Tax Increment Financing (TIF) – Kipling Ridge, Wheat Ridge Corners, Swiss Flower, West End 38, Hacienda Colorado and Regency Partners (former Walmart space) $1.1 million • Public events implemented by Localworks $180,000 Council Action Form – Adopting the 2020 City Budget October 14, 2019 Page 8 • Wheat Ridge Business District (WRBD) grant program $90,000 • Live Local events $41,500 • Building up Business Loan Program (BUBL) $50,000 • Security related initiatives including guard and armored bank service $70,000 • New and upgraded security cameras at City Hall and Recreation Center $58,000 • Citizen survey $40,000 • City employee Innovation Committee $10,000 • Online public hearing software $19,200 • Police Department employee wellness and resiliency $15,000 • Wadsworth reconstruction project $17.68 million • Wheat Ridge Ward Road station area improvements $8 million • Preventative street maintenance $1.8 million • Bridge maintenance $410,000 • Redevelopment of “The Green” $900,000 • Traffic Safety, Life Quality and Crime Reduction (TLC) Program $33,000 • ADA improvements citywide $50,000 • Large-item pickup program $5,000 • New snow plow $240,000 • Historic building management and maintenance $95,800 • Carnation Festival contribution $100,000 and staff overtime and barricade $27,500 OUTSIDE AGENCY CONTRIBUTIONS In 2016, City Council appointed a Citizen Review Committee to make recommendations for contributions to outside agencies. Following are the Committee’s recommendations for 2020: The Action Center $3,800 Active Transportation Advisory Committee $900 Audio Information Network $1,200 Court Appointed Special Advocates $4,500 Chanda Plan Foundation $4,100 Community Table $12,100 Family Tree $6,200 Feed the Future $8,600 Foundation for Advanced STEM Education $8,400 Institute for Environmental Solutions (IES) $2,000 Jefferson Center for Mental Health $3,700 Jefferson County Library Foundation $2,000 Jewish Family Services-Colorado Senior Connections $5,000 Lutheran Foundation – Heroes of Hope $3,100 Outdoor Lab Foundation $17,400 Regional Air Quality Council $2,400 Senior Resource Center Circulator Bus $21,900 Council Action Form – Adopting the 2020 City Budget October 14, 2019 Page 9 Sunshine Home Share $3,000 Wheat Ridge Community Foundation $4,800 Wheat Ridge Optimist Club $1,200 Wheat Ridge High School STEM/STEAM $17,500 TOTAL $133,800 DEBT At the regular general election held on November 8, 2016, the electorate of the City approved ballot question 2E, which temporarily increased the sales and use tax levied by the City by one-half of one percent (3% to 3.5%) for up to 12 years or when $38.5 million is raised, whichever occurs first. It also authorized the issuance of debt to finance City investment in public infrastructure to facilitate economic development opportunities. Sales and use tax revenue bonds were issued on May 2, 2017 to finance four specific City investments including Anderson Park, Wadsworth Boulevard, Wheat Ridge Ward G Line station development and the Clear Creek Crossing development. The par amount of the bond issue was $30,595,000 with a net premium of $2,687,079 for a total of $33,282,079. Of this amount $33 million was deposited into Fund 31 for the four specific City investments, $152,975 was allocated for the underwriter’s discount and $129,104 for costs associated with the bond issue. The maximum repayment cost of the bonds will not exceed $38,500,000 and maximum annual repayment cost will not exceed $3,700,000. In the budget, $3,498,800 is budgeted for the 2020 annual debt service. Additionally, the City has the following long-term financial obligations: Renewal Wheat Ridge The City’s Urban Renewal Authority (Renewal Wheat Ridge), is a component unit of the City. Renewal Wheat Ridge provided a loan in the amount of $2.455 million, accruing interest at 3.16% per annum, for the Kipling Ridge commercial center development at 38th and Kipling. The term of this loan expires in 2023 and will be paid from sales and property tax incremental revenue from the Kipling Ridge project. The balance of the loan as of December 31, 2019, will be $1.3 million. Community Solar Garden On March 23, 2015, the City entered into an agreement to purchase electric generating capacity in a solar garden. The agreement was funded on April 13, 2015, with a lease agreement for $800,000. The solar power capacity is recorded as capital assets in the amount of $776,628. A portion of the loan proceeds was used to pay issuance costs of $23,372. Annual payments of $80,167, including principal and interest accruing at 5.75%, are due through May 1, 2030. As of December 31, 2019, the City has a capital lease outstanding amount of $624,825. For its participation, it is estimated the City will receive $52,000 in energy credits from Xcel in 2020 to be used to pay this lease and against energy consumption at various facilities. Council Action Form – Adopting the 2020 City Budget October 14, 2019 Page 10 Fruitdale School Lofts In 2016, the City Council approved a loan in the amount of $2.585 million from General Fund reserves to the Fruitdale School Partners. The loan was for the redevelopment of the Fruitdale School property into a mix of 16 market-rate and income-restricted rental housing units. Fruitdale School Partners repaid $1.5 million of the loan in 2018. The remaining $1,085,000 will be paid over a 40-year period and, until that time, will remain as a restricted balance in the General Fund reserves. COMPENSATION, BENEFITS AND STAFFING Compensation Personnel-related expenses account for the largest portion of the City’s Budget. Remaining competitive to attract the best talent for the City and maintain investment in its people is a high priority. In 2013, the City launched a new compensation plan for full-time/part-time benefited employees that is financially sustainable and will help the City recruit and retain top talent. The City’s pay-for-performance model is consistent with the culture and commitment to A.C.T.I.O.N! - the City’s core values of Accountability – Change – Teamwork – Integrity – Opportunity – Now! It is important for the City to reward employees who exemplify these core values and who help achieve the City’s strategic results. The market-based compensation plan, updated biennially, consists of two sub plans 1) a pay-for-performance open range plan, which includes civilian and police sergeants and higher ranks, and 2) a sworn seven-step plan, which includes police officer I and II positions. Employees will be eligible for a performance increase on January 1, 2020, based on how well they meet the core values and competencies of the PMP system. As pay ranges have shifted in recent years due to the strong economy and increases to Colorado’s minimum wage, performance-based compensation adjustments have not kept pace with market adjustments in some circumstances. This has resulted in some high-performing employees progressing very slowly in the pay range, thus placing the City at risk for high turnover. To address this compression, the 2020 budget includes compensation adjustments to account for employee compression for those high-performing employees in the open range plan. Also included is an adjustment to steps one and seven in the police department sworn step plan to keep pace with surrounding municipalities and maintain Wheat Ridge’s competitiveness. The 2020 proposed budget includes $830,000 for pay-for-performance increases, compression adjustments for high performing employees and annual police department step increases. Benefits The City continues to provide a competitive benefits package to employees that includes medical, dental, life and disability benefits. Throughout the year, staff works closely with the City’s benefit broker, IMA, to ensure that the City is controlling benefit costs while still providing a competitive benefits package to its employees, which is a vital part of the City’s total compensation approach to pay. Council Action Form – Adopting the 2020 City Budget October 14, 2019 Page 11 The City currently provides Kaiser Permanente plans for employee medical benefits. Medical premiums will experience a 4.6% increase in 2020. The City did not experience an increase in 2019. There are several key factors that play a role in calculating the City’s health care premium renewal. The City’s Wellness Program is a positive contributing factor to the minimal premium increase. Historically, the City’s premium increases ranged from 10 – 15%, which continues to be the market average. The City will continue to encourage enrollment and active participation in the Wellness Program. There will be no increases to the dental, life and short-term disability premiums in 2020. In 2020, the City will continue to offer the High Deductible Health Plan (HDHP) and the Deductible HMO (DHMO) added in 2017. The HDHP plan was added in 2013 and is a consumer model of health care paired with a Health Savings Account (HSA). The goal of the consumer-driven HDHP and DHMO is to encourage employees to manage costs through effective use of health care. The City currently contributes to a 401(a) retirement plan for nonsworn employees. Employees contribute 4% to the plan and the City matches 6%. For sworn employees, both the City and employees contribute 10% to the plan (sworn employees do not contribute to Social Security). As part of the sworn market analysis in 2019 it was determined that the City is approximately 1.5% below market in terms of sworn pension contribution match. The 2020 budget includes a 0.5% increase to the City’s contribution in the amount of approximately $35,000. Based on available funds and movement of surrounding jurisdictions, the City may consider additional increases in 2021 and 2022 in order to remain competitive. The 2020 proposed budget contemplates migrating workers’ compensation insurance from CIRSA to Pinnacol Assurance. In addition to saving the City approximately $100,000 based on the 2019 premium, staff expects an increased level of service to better serve the needs of injured employees and the organization through enhanced return-to-work programs, on-call nurses, easy to use e-portals and dedicated claims representatives. Staffing In 2019, the City’s staffing level is at 236.375 FTE’s. The 2020 staffing level will increase by a net of 2.75 FTE’s for a total of 239.125 FTE’s in all funds. General Fund 1.0 Neighborhood Engagement Specialist – Community Development This position is called for in the updated Neighborhood Revitalization Strategy, adopted by City Council on July 22, 2019. The position supports the first theme identified in the strategy which is “building resident capacity through neighborhood change.” The Neighborhood Engagement Specialist will partner with City staff to implement a community engagement strategy, initially focusing on neighborhood planning efforts. This position will organize and facilitate public processes to develop neighborhood plans; become an expert in explaining City operations, connecting residents to services; be a resource to communicate between residents and City departments; and manage special projects. In addition to implementing the Neighborhood Council Action Form – Adopting the 2020 City Budget October 14, 2019 Page 12 Revitalization Strategy update, this position supports the City’s 2035 Vision Topics “Wheat Ridge has great neighborhoods” and “Wheat Ridge residents are proud of their hometown.” 0.75 FTE Landscape Inspection Program Manager – Community Development In response to Council’s desire to prioritize the maintenance and enhancement of the City’s physical appearance, the Community Development Department initiated a pilot landscape and enforcement program to ensure ongoing landscape maintenance is occurring, particularly on commercial and multifamily properties. For the past three summers since the program’s inception, this program has been staffed utilizing a paid seasonal intern. Despite the challenges inherent with temporary staffing, this program has been generally well received and numerous properties have been brought into compliance with their approved landscape plans. Increasing the City’s investment to a permanent three quarter time position will allow for program growth, continuity and improved customer service. This position supports the City’s 2035 Vision Topic “Wheat Ridge is an attractive and inviting city.” 0.5 FTE Payroll Technician – Administrative Services In 2017, ESM Consulting analyzed the structure of the City’s Accounting and Sales Tax divisions to determine the most efficient and effective use of authorized full time positions. The key findings led to several recommendations including restructuring the two divisions to create one Finance division, realigning positions to reassign duties, and reengineering responsibilities to allow for critical back-up of certain functions and separation of duties. One specific deficiency noted in the report was the lack of backup to the payroll function. To address this, in 2019, the City added part-time support through a temporary intermittent payroll technician to provide a true backup to the payroll supervisor. This has proven to be successful, and this year, the payroll technician executed multiple payrolls independently and assisted with complex payroll-related Federal and State legal and procedural changes. Given the sensitive and critical nature of this function, along with the investment in training and initial oversight, it is prudent to make this a permanent benefitted position with a minimal increase in investment. 0.5 FTE Sustainability Coordinator – City Manager’s Office During the 2020 Proposed Budget presentation on September 16, Council provided consensus to add a 0.5 FTE Sustainability Coordinator to the proposed budget. This position was recommended by Sustainable Wheat Ridge, the resident-led committee for the City, in order to enhance the impact of the committee by adding a sustainability professional to staff. The primary role of the Sustainability Coordinator will be to implement and manage the new Neighborhood Sustainability Program. This program, which was developed by and includes training from the City of Lakewood, promotes resident-led neighborhood sustainability efforts in order to assist residents in taking ownership of their community’s environmental actions. The position will also provide leadership to the committee in the implementation of the Sustainable Wheat Ridge Action Plan, and collaborate with City staff to identify, coordinate and manage sustainability-related opportunities in the workplace. Council Action Form – Adopting the 2020 City Budget October 14, 2019 Page 13 Crime Prevention Fund 0.5 Homeless Navigator – Police Department The rise of individuals experiencing homelessness continues to be a regional issue that affects the health, safety, and welfare of all those who reside in Jefferson County. As such, Jefferson County and the municipalities within, including the City of Wheat Ridge, have partnered in addressing homelessness across the County. An essential part of these efforts will be to establish a network of Homeless Navigator positions in individual jurisdictions that will work in collaboration as regional partners. This new position will deliver direct services to individuals and families in need, provide program and stabilization-related support, and collect and distribute information and resources to assist those experiencing homelessness. This position also represents Wheat Ridge’s commitment to a collaborative, regional approach to addressing homelessness in Jefferson County. The Staffing section of the Proposed 2020 Budget contains a Five-Year Staffing Plan for 2020 to 2024. Over the last decade staff has done its best to provide a level of service expected by City Council and the community. The City has typically operated with a very lean staff; however, as community expectations change, the City must ensure adequate staffing to meet those demands. This Plan will be evaluated annually to determine the most cost-effective way to continue providing exceptional customer service and quality programs. RECOMMENDATIONS: Adopt the 2020 Budget as amended. RECOMMENDED MOTION: “I move to approve Resolution No. 56-2019, a resolution adopting the City Budget and appropriating sums of money to the various funds and spending agencies for the City of Wheat Ridge, Colorado for the 2020 Budget Year.” Or, “I move to postpone indefinitely Resolution No. 56-2019, a resolution adopting the City Budget and appropriating sums of money to the various funds and spending agencies for the City of Wheat Ridge, Colorado for the 2020 Budget Year for the following reason(s) _________________________________________________________________________.” REPORT PREPARED/REVIEWED BY: Alli Scheck, Administrative Services Director Patrick Goff, City Manager ATTACHMENT: 1. Resolution No. 56-2019 CITY OF WHEAT RIDGE, COLORADO RESOLUTION NO. 56 Series of 2019 TITLE: A RESOLUTION ADOPTING THE CITY BUDGET AND APPROPRIATING SUMS OF MONEY TO THE VARIOUS FUNDS AND SPENDING AGENCIES FOR THE CITY OF WHEAT RIDGE, COLORADO FOR THE 2020 BUDGET YEAR WHEREAS, the City of Wheat Ridge annual budget for the fiscal year 2020 has been established and public hearings and meetings have been held after duly published public notices; and WHEREAS, the budget provides for the combination of revenues and excess fund balance reserves equal to or greater than the total proposed expenditures as set forth in said budget in the total amount of $76,928,656 which includes the following funds: 1. Fund 01 - General Fund $43,135,240 2. Fund 12 - Public Art Fund $450,000 3. Fund 17 - Police Investigation Fund $20,000 4. Fund 30 - Capital Improvement Fund $18,361,877 5. Fund 31 - 2E Investing 4 the Future Fund $15,109,308 6. Fund 32 - Open Space Fund $2,016,941 7. Fund 33 - Municipal Court Fund $36,000 8. Fund 54 - Conservation Trust Fund $821,950 9. Fund 57 - Equipment Replacement Fund $64,125 10. Fund 63 - Crime Prevention Fund $613,215 Less Transfers: ($ 3,700,000) Total Expenditures: $76,928,656 NOW, THEREFORE, BE IT RESOLVED by the City Council of the City of Wheat Ridge, Colorado, that the City of Wheat Ridge total budget as stated in the Resolution be hereby approved, adopted, and appropriated for the entire fiscal period beginning January 1, 2020 and ending December 31, 2020. DONE AND RESOLVED THIS 14th day of October 2019. ________________________________ Bud Starker, Mayor ATTEST: ____________________________ Janelle Shaver, City Clerk ATTACHMENT 1 Case No. ZOA-19-04 / R-1 Minor Accessory Structures ITEM NO: DATE: October 14, 2019 REQUEST FOR CITY COUNCIL ACTION TITLE: COUNCIL BILL NO. 16-2019 – AN ORDINANCE AMENDING SECTION 26-205 OF THE WHEAT RIDGE CODE OF LAWS CONCERNING THE REGULATION OF MINOR ACCESSORY STRUCTURES IN THE RESIDENTIAL-ONE ZONE DISTRICT (CASE NO. ZOA-19-04) PUBLIC HEARING ORDINANCES FOR 1ST READING (10/14/2019) BIDS/MOTIONS ORDINANCES FOR 2ND READING (10/28/2019) RESOLUTIONS QUASI-JUDICIAL: YES NO _______________________________ _____________________________________ Community Development Director City Manager ISSUE: The purpose of the proposed ordinance is to modify development standards for minor accessory structures in the Residential-One (R-1) zone district, specifically as they relate to the rear and side setbacks and maximum square footage allowed per structure. PRIOR ACTION: Staff discussed this issue with City Council at a study session on August 19, 2019. At the study session, Council directed staff to draft a code amendment allowing smaller structures to have reduced setbacks in R-1. Planning Commission will make a recommendation on the proposed ordinance at a public hearing on October 17, 2019. Meeting minutes from the Planning Commission public hearing will be included with the ordinance for second reading. FINANCIAL IMPACT: There are no direct financial impacts to the City. 3 Council Action Form – R-1 Minor Accessory Structures October 14, 2019 Page 2 BACKGROUND: The R-1 zone district is the City’s largest lot, single-family zone district requiring a minimum lot area of 12,500 square feet (0.25 acre) and lot width of 100 feet. The purpose and intent of this zone district is to provide high quality, safe, quiet, and stable low-density residential neighborhoods, and to prohibit activities of any nature which are incompatible with the low-density residential character. In residential zone districts, setbacks are established for primary and accessory structures. Accessory structures are defined as major or minor. This distinction between major and minor depends on the size and height of the structure. In general, a garage or carport is often classified as a major accessory structure, whereas a shed or gazebo is often classified as a minor accessory structure. The minimum side and rear setbacks for all structures in R-1 are currently 15 feet, including for minor accessory structures. At a study session on August 19, 2019, staff presented an analysis of the code and other jurisdictions’ regulations as it relates to the setbacks of accessory structures in the R-1 zone district. Council consensus was to reduce minimum rear and side yard setbacks but only for very small accessory structures (such as sheds) in the R-1 zone district. The enclosed ordinance reflects Council’s direction and includes two text amendments to the zoning code: 1. Minor accessory structures in R-1 are limited to a maximum size of 200 square feet (a reduction from the current allowance of 400 square feet), and 2. Minimum side and rear setbacks are 5 feet for these minor accessory structures in R-1. Based on this change, any detached structure over 200 square feet in the R-1 zone district is classified as a major accessory structure and will require 15-foot side and rear setbacks. RECOMMENDATIONS: Staff recommends approval of the ordinance. RECOMMENDED MOTION: “I move to approve Council Bill No. 16-2019, an ordinance amending Section 26-205 of the Wheat Ridge Code of Laws concerning the regulation of minor accessory structures in the Residential-One zone district, on first reading, order it published, public hearing set for Monday, October 28, 2019 at 7:00 p.m. in City Council Chambers, and that it take effect 15 days after final publication.” Or, “I move to postpone indefinitely Council Bill No. 16-2019, an ordinance amending Section 26-205 of the Wheat Ridge Code of Laws concerning the regulation of minor accessory structures in the Residential-One zone district, for the following reason(s) _________________.” Council Action Form – R-1 Minor Accessory Structures October 14, 2019 Page 3 REPORT PREPARED/REVIEWED BY: Zareen Tasneem, Planner I Lauren Mikulak, Planning Manager Kenneth Johnstone, Community Development Director Patrick Goff, City Manager ATTACHMENTS: 1. Council Bill No. 16-2019 CITY OF WHEAT RIDGE, COLORADO INTRODUCED BY COUNCIL MEMBER _____________________ COUNCIL BILL NO. 16 ORDINANCE NO. _________ Series 2019 TITLE: AN ORDINANCE AMENDING SECTION 26-205 OF THE WHEAT RIDGE CODE OF LAWS CONCERNING THE REGULATION OF MINOR ACCESSORY STRUCTURES IN THE RESIDENTIAL-ONE ZONE DISTRICT (CASE NO. ZOA-19-04) WHEREAS, the City Council of the City of Wheat Ridge is authorized by the Home Rule Charter and the Colorado Constitution and statutes to enact and enforce ordinances for the preservation of the public health, safety and welfare; and WHEREAS, in the exercise of that authority, the City Council of the City of Wheat Ridge has previously enacted Chapter 26 of the Wheat Ridge Code of Laws (the Code) pertaining to zoning, land use, and development; and WHEREAS, the City Council has identified a need to modify regulations pertaining to minor accessory structures in the Residential-One (R-1) zone district associated therewith; and WHEREAS, the City Council finds that this amendment does not diminish the quality or character of its residential neighborhoods. NOW THEREFORE BE IT ORDAINED BY THE CITY COUNCIL OF THE CITY OF WHEAT RIDGE, COLORADO: Section 1. Code Section 26-205 (Residential-One District (R-1)) of the Code is amended as follows in their appropriate locations: B. Development standards: Maximum Height Maximum Building Coverage Minimum Lot Area Minimum Lot Width Minimum Front Yard Setback (a) Minimum Side Yard Setback (b) Minimum Rear Yard Setback (b) … Accessory Buildings (d) Major 15' 1,000 sf N/A N/A 30' (c) 15' 15' Minor 10' 400 sf 200 SF N/A N/A 30' (c) 15' 5’ 15' 5’ Section 2. Safety Clause. The City Council hereby finds, determines, and declares that this Ordinance is promulgated under the general police power of the City of Wheat Ridge, that it is promulgated for the health, safety, and welfare of the public and that this Ordinance is necessary for the preservation of health and safety and for the protection of public convenience and welfare. The City ATTACHMENT 1 2 Council further determines that the Ordinance bears a rational relation to the proper legislative object sought to be attained. Section 3. Severability, 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 4. Effective Date. This Ordinance shall take effect fifteen (15) 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 this 14th day of October, 2019, ordered published with Public Hearing and consideration on final passage set for Monday, October 28, 2019 at 7:00 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 ______________, 2019. SIGNED by the Mayor on this _____ day of ____________, 2019. _________________________ Bud Starker, Mayor ATTEST: _________________________ Janelle Shaver, City Clerk Approved as to form _________________________ Gerald E. Dahl, City Attorney First Publication: Second Publication: Wheat Ridge Transcript Effective Date: ITEM NO: DATE: October 14, 2019 REQUEST FOR CITY COUNCIL ACTION TITLE: COUNCIL BILL NO. 17-2019 – AN ORDINANCE VACATING ANY INTEREST HELD BY THE CITY IN A PORTION OF WEST 38TH AVENUE, A PUBLIC ROADWAY PUBLIC HEARING ORDINANCES FOR 1ST READING (10/14/2019) BIDS/MOTIONS ORDINANCES FOR 2ND READING (10/28/2019) RESOLUTIONS QUASI-JUDICIAL: YES NO ____________________________ ______________________________ Engineering Manager City Manager ISSUE: The City of Wheat Ridge holds rights-of-way in trust for the public. An irregular-shaped strip of ROW running along the south side of West 38th Avenue eastward from Youngfield Street has been deemed to be excessive and unnecessary by Public Works. Staff recommends transfering the ROW to U.S. Retail Partners, LLC, owners of the Applewood Shopping Center. PRIOR ACTION: None FINANCIAL IMPACT: None. The ROW is currently owned and maintained by the City of Wheat Ridge. BACKGROUND: Originally an on-ramp to eastbound Interstate 70 on the west side of Youngfield Street was located at the West 38th Avenue intersection (the “Intersection”). Due to the interstate traffic load at the Intersection, ROW was dedicated for a right turn lane from northbound Youngfield to eastbound West 38th Avenue. However, by 2008 the eastbound Interstate 70 on-ramp was relocated further south on Youngfield Street to better align with the signalized entrance to the Applewood Village Shopping Center. 4 Council Action Form – W. 38th Avenue ROW Vacation October 14, 2019 Page 2 After a decade of reviewing traffic counts and observing basic traffic operations in the area, Public Works has determined that a dedicated right turn lane at this location would likely never be needed. The current street standards can be met, and if desired by the City, a new monument entry sign can easily be placed within a narrower ROW width at the intersection. The area proposed for vacation is 2,367 sq. ft. (0.05 acres), more or less. If approved by Council, the title to the strip of ROW being vacated will revert to U.S. Retail Partners, LLC (“U.S. Retail”), owners of the Applewood Village Shopping Center. This additional ROW will provide U.S. Retail with the additional square footage required for a new developable pad at this Intersection. In return for the vacated area, U.S. Retail has agreed to deed to the City a small, irregular-shaped strip of ROW along the east side of Youngfield Street lying due south of the area of vacation. The City needs the area to bring the Youngfield corridor into compliance with current street standards and to allow for construction of public improvements. The area proposed for dedication is 2,187 square feet (0.05 acres), more or less. RECOMMENDATION: Staff recommends approval of the attached ordinance. RECOMMENDED MOTION: “I move to approve Council Bill No. 17-2019, an ordinance vacating any interest held by the City in a portion of West 38th Avenue, order it published, public hearing set for Monday, October 28, 2019, at 7 p.m. in City Council Chambers, and that it take effect 15 days after final publication.” Or, “I move to postpone indefinitely Council Bill No. 17-2019, an ordinance vacating any interest held by the City in a portion of West 38th Avenue for the following reason(s) ______________.” REPORT PREPARED BY: Dave Brossman, Development Review Engineer Steve Nguyen, Engineering Manager Patrick Goff, City Manager ATTACHMENTS: 1. Council Bill 17-2019 2. Legal Description 3. Overall Aerial CITY OF WHEAT RIDGE, COLORADO INTRODUCED BY COUNCIL MEMBER COUNCIL BILL NO. 17 ORDINANCE NO. _________ Series 2019 TITLE: AN ORDINANCE VACATING ANY INTEREST HELD BY THE CITY IN A PORTION OF WEST 38th AVENUE, A PUBLIC ROADWAY WHEREAS, the City of Wheat Ridge holds public rights-of-way in trust for the public and the landowners abutting such rights-of-way; and WHEREAS, a portion of right-of-way along the southerly side of West 38th Avenue at Youngfield Street is not needed for public roadway purposes; and WHEREAS, pursuant to the authority granted by C.R.S. §§ 31-15-702(1)(a)(I) and 43-2-301 et seq., the Council of the City of Wheat Ridge, Colorado, has determined that the nature and extent of the public use and the public interest to be served is such as to warrant the vacation of this area; and WHEREAS, the portion of the West 38th Avenue right-of-way to be vacated and which is the subject of this ordinance is more fully described on Exhibit A attached hereto and fully incorporated herein by this reference; and WHEREAS, no property abutting said public roadway will be left without an established public road or private-access easement connecting said land with another established public road. NOW THEREFORE BE IT ORDAINED BY THE CITY COUNCIL OF THE CITY OF WHEAT RIDGE, COLORADO: Section 1. Vacation. To the extent of any City interest therein, the following portion of the West 38th Avenue right-of-way is hereby vacated, the same being no longer required for public use and the public interest will be served by such vacation, as more particularly described on the attached Exhibit A. Section 2. Severability, 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. Recording. This Ordinance shall be filed for record with the office of the Jefferson County Clerk and Recorder. Section 4. Effective Date. This Ordinance shall take effect fifteen (15) days after final publication, as provided by Section 5.11 of the Charter. ATTACHMENT 1 INTRODUCED, READ, AND ADOPTED on first reading by a vote of to on this 14th day of October, 2019, 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 October 28, 2019 at 7:00 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 ______________, 2019. SIGNED by the Mayor on this _____ day of ____________, 2019. _________________________ Bud Starker, Mayor ATTEST: _________________________ Janelle Shaver, City Clerk Approved as to Form _________________________ Gerald E. Dahl, City Attorney First Publication: October 17, 2019 Second Publication: Wheat Ridge Transcript Effective Date: Published: Wheat Ridge Transcript and www.ci.wheatridge.co.us LOCATED IN THE NORTHWEST QUARTER OF SECTION 29, TOWNSHIP 3 SOUTH, RANGE 69 WEST OF THE 6TH PRINCIPAL MERIDIAN, CITY OF WHEAT RIDGE, COUNTY OF JEFFERSON, STATE OF COLORADO Flatirons, Inc. Surveying, Engineering & Geomatics www.FlatironsInc.com 19588 P R O F E SSIONAL L A N D S U R V E Y O R C O L O R A D O L ICE N S E D E D G A R T H OMAS BRI S T O W ATTACHMENT 2 D LOCATED IN THE NORTHWEST QUARTER OF SECTION 29, TOWNSHIP 3 SOUTH, RANGE 69 WEST OF THE 6TH PRINCIPAL MERIDIAN, CITY OF WHEAT RIDGE, COUNTY OF JEFFERSON, STATE OF COLORADO Flatirons, Inc. Surveying, Engineering & Geomatics www.FlatironsInc.com 19588 P R O F E SSIONAL LA N D S U R V E Y O R C O L O R A D O L ICE N S E D E D G A R T H OMAS BRI S T O W 38TH AVE I70 EB HW Y I70 W B H W Y YOU N G F I E L D S T YO U N G F I E L D S E R V I C E R D 38TH D R I70 EB ON R A M P F R O M Y O U N G F I E L D S T R A M P WR I G H T C T WR Te ch nolog ie s Inc DATE: 10/14/2019 Horizontal Coordinate S yste m :NAD83/92 S tate Plane , Colorado Ce ntral Zone 0502 Ve rtical Datu m : NAVD88 7500 We st 29th Ave nu eWh e at Ridg e , CO 80033-8001303.234.5900 DISCLAIMER NOTICE: Th is is a pictorial re pre se ntation of g e og raph ic and de m og raph ic inform ation. Re liance u pon th e accu racy,re liability and au th ority of th is inform ation is sole ly th ere qu e stor’s re sponsibility. Th e City of Wh e at Ridg e , in Je ffe rson Cou nty, Colorado - a political su bdivision of th e S tate of Colorado, h as com pile d for its u se ce rtain com pu te rize d inform ation. Th is inform ation is availableto assist in ide ntifying g e ne ral are as of conce rn only. Th e com pu te rize d inform ation provide d h e re in sh ou ld only be re lie d u pon with corroboration of th e m e th ods, assu m ptions, and re su lts by a qu alifie d inde pe nde nt sou rce . Th e u se r of th is inform ation sh all inde m nify andh old fre e th e City of Wh e at Ridg e from any and all liabilitie s, dam ag e s, lawsu its, and cau se s of action th atre su lt as a conse qu e nce of h is re liance on inform ation provide d h e re in. 38th Ave. & Youngfield St. LegendUS RetailType Propose d De dication Are aPropose d Vacation Are aROW_CURRENTRoad CenterlineCLASSPrim ary road, inte rstate h ig h way, lim ite d acce ss roadS e condary road, U.S . h ig h way Conne cting road, cou nty roadsNe ig h borh ood road, city stre e t, u nim prove d roadS pe cial Road Fe atu re µ 100 0 10050 Fe e t ATTACHMENT 3 ITEM NO: DATE: October 14, 2019 REQUEST FOR CITY COUNCIL ACTION TITLE: RESOLUTION NO. 57-2019 – A RESOLUTION LEVYING GENERAL PROPERTY TAXES FOR THE YEAR 2019, TO HELP DEFRAY THE COSTS OF GOVERNMENT FOR THE CITY OF WHEAT RIDGE, COLORADO FOR THE 2020 BUDGET YEAR PUBLIC HEARING ORDINANCES FOR 1ST READING BIDS/MOTIONS ORDINANCES FOR 2ND READING RESOLUTIONS QUASI-JUDICIAL: YES NO _______________________________ ______________________________ Administrative Services Director City Manager ISSUE: Levying property taxes for the 2019 fiscal year. PRIOR ACTION: None FINANCIAL IMPACT: The City’s mill levy will be set at 1.830, raising $1,139,393 in property tax revenue. BACKGROUND: Section 39-5-128 of the Colorado Revised Statutes (C.R.S.) requires the Jefferson County Assessor to certify to the City the total valuation for assessment of all taxable property located within the territorial limits of the City of Wheat Ridge. The total net assessed valuation for the City for the year of 2019 is $622,619,069, which is an increase of $65,698,378 compared to the year of 2018. The City is also required by this same section of the C.R.S. to officially certify the property tax mill levy to the Jefferson County Board of County Commissioners by December 15, 5 Council Action Form – Certification of Mill Levy October 14, 2019 Page 2 2019. The City’s property tax mill levy will remain at 1.830 mills for the 2020 budget, generating approximately $1,139,393 in property tax revenue, an increase of $127,945 compared to the 2019 estimate. Section 20 of Article X of the Constitution of Colorado, the Taxpayers Bill of Rights (TABOR), restricts increases in property tax revenue to inflation plus local growth (defined as the percentage change in actual value of real property from construction of taxable real property improvements). Wheat Ridge voters exempted the City from this TABOR revenue limitation at the November 2006 election. However, TABOR still restricts the City from raising the property tax mill levy without voter approval unless the mill levy was temporarily reduced in a previous year. RECOMMENDATIONS: Set the mill levy at 1.830. RECOMMENDED MOTION: “I move to approve Resolution No. 57-2019, a resolution levying general property taxes for the year 2019, to help defray the costs of government for the City of Wheat Ridge, Colorado for the 2020 budget year.” Or, “I move to postpone indefinitely Resolution No. 57-2019, a resolution levying general property taxes for the year 2019, to help defray the costs of government for the City of Wheat Ridge, Colorado for the 2020 budget year for the following reason(s)________________________________________________________________.” REPORT PREPARED/REVIEWED BY: Alli Scheck, Administrative Services Director Patrick Goff, City Manager ATTACHMENTS: 1. Resolution No. 57-2019 2. 2019 Certification of Tax Levy CITY OF WHEAT RIDGE, COLORADO RESOLUTION NO. 57 Series of 2019 TITLE: A RESOLUTION LEVYING GENERAL PROPERTY TAXES FOR THE YEAR OF 2019, TO HELP DEFRAY THE COSTS OF GOVERNMENT FOR THE CITY OF WHEAT RIDGE, COLORADO FOR THE 2020 BUDGET YEAR WHEREAS, the City Council of the City of Wheat Ridge adopted the 2020 annual budget on October 14, 2019 in accordance with the Local Government Budget Law, and; WHEREAS, the amount of money necessary to balance the budget for general operating purposes from real property tax revenue is $1,139,393, and; WHEREAS, the Local Government Budget Law requires certification of the annual property tax mill levy by December 15, 2019, and; WHEREAS, the total net assessed valuation of all taxable property subject to taxation for the year of 2019 is $622,619,069 and; WHEREAS, the City for the fiscal year 2019 has determined to levy 1.830 mills on all taxable property within the City; NOW, THEREFORE BE IT RESOLVED BY THE CITY COUNCIL OF THE CITY OF WHEAT RIDGE: A. That for the purpose of meeting all general operating expenses of the City of Wheat Ridge during the 2020 budget year, there is hereby levied a tax of 1.830 mills placed upon each dollar of the total valuation of all taxable property within the City of Wheat Ridge for the year 2019. B. That the City Manager of the City of Wheat Ridge is hereby authorized and directed to immediately certify to the County Commissioners of Jefferson County, Colorado the mill levy for the City of Wheat Ridge as herein above determined and set. DONE AND RESOLVED THIS 14th day of October, 2019. _____________________________ Bud Starker, Mayor ATTEST: ________________________ Janelle Shaver, City Clerk ATTACHMENT 1 Form DLG 70 (rev 7/08) Page 1 of 4 3110 County Tax Entity Code DOLA LGID/SID / CERTIFICATION OF TAX LEVIES for NON-SCHOOL Governments TO: County Commissioners1 of Jefferson County , Colorado. On behalf of the City of Wheat Ridge , (taxing entity)A the City Council (governing body)B of the City of Wheat Ridge (local government)C Hereby officially certifies the following mills to be levied against the taxing entity’s GROSS assessed valuation of: $ 635,949,434 (GROSSD assessed valuation, Line 2 of the Certification of Valuation Form DLG 57E) Note: If the assessor certified a NET assessed valuation (AV) different than the GROSS AV due to a Tax Increment Financing (TIF) AreaF the tax levies must be calculated using the NET AV. The taxing entity’s total property tax revenue will be derived from the mill levy multiplied against the NET assessed valuation of: $ 622,619,069 (NETG assessed valuation, Line 4 of the Certification of Valuation Form DLG 57) Submitted: 10-15-19 for budget/fiscal year 2020 . (not later than Dec. 15) (mm/dd/yyyy) (yyyy) PURPOSE (see end notes for definitions and examples)LEVY2 REVENUE2 1.General Operating ExpensesH 1.830 mills $ 1,139,393 2.<Minus> Temporary General Property Tax Credit/ Temporary Mill Levy Rate ReductionI < >mills $ < > SUBTOTAL FOR GENERAL OPERATING: 1.830 mills $ 1,139,393 3.General Obligation Bonds and InterestJ mills $ 4.Contractual ObligationsK mills $ 5.Capital ExpendituresL mills $ 6.Refunds/AbatementsM mills $ 7.OtherN (specify):mills $ mills $ TOTAL: [ Sum of General Operating Subtotal and Lines 3 to 7 ] 1.830 mills $1,139,393 Contact person: (print) Patrick Goff Daytime phone: (303)235-2805 Signed: Title: City Manager Include one copy of this tax entity’s completed form when filing the local government’s budget by January 31st, per 29-1-113 C.R.S., with the Division of Local Government (DLG), Room 521, 1313 Sherman Street, Denver, CO 80203. Questions? Call DLG at (303) 866-2156. 1 If the taxing entity’s boundaries include more than one county, you must certify the levies to each county. Use a separate form for each county and certify the same levies uniformly to each county per Article X, Section 3 of the Colorado Constitution. 2 Levies must be rounded to three decimal places and revenue must be calculated from the total NET assessed valuation (Line 4 of Form DLG57 on the County Assessor’s final certification of valuation). ATTACHMENT 2 ITEM NO: DATE: October 14, 2019 REQUEST FOR CITY COUNCIL ACTION TITLE: MOTION TO CANCEL THE DECEMBER 23, 2019 REGULAR BUSINESS MEETING OF THE WHEAT RIDGE CITY COUNCIL DUE TO THE CHRISTMAS HOLIDAY PUBLIC HEARING ORDINANCES FOR 1ST READING BIDS/MOTIONS ORDINANCES FOR 2ND READING RESOLUTIONS QUASI-JUDICIAL: YES NO ______________________________ City Manager ISSUE: The Regular City Council Business Meeting of December 23, 2019 is the evening before Christmas Eve. In order to provide time for City Council and Staff to spend this holiday with family and friends, it is recommended that City Council cancel this meeting. FINANCIAL IMPACT: None RECOMMENDATIONS: Staff recommends canceling the Regular City Council Business Meeting scheduled for December 23, 2019. RECOMMENDED MOTION: “I move to cancel the December 23, 2019 Regular City Council Business Meeting.” Or, “I move to not cancel the December 23, 2019 Regular City Council Business Meeting.” REPORT PREPARED/REVIEWED BY: Patrick Goff, City Manager 6