Rich Willis

The Ouray Planning Commission meeting agenda included a review of minutes from previous meetings, citizen communication, a public hearing on a resolution recommending approval of the Community Plan Update 2020 to the City Council, discussion of a staff report to the City Council, and adjournment.

The committee approved the minutes from the June 22, 2023 meeting and established a standard meeting schedule for the second Wednesday of each month at 9:00 am. A key discussion involved the allocation of a $7,500 grant towards the creation of a Downtown Master Plan, with plans to seek additional funding. The committee reviewed the 2023 Work Plan and Strategic Plan, focusing on the use of grant funds for the Downtown Master Plan and the creation of an RFP. Future agenda items will include community outreach for the Main Street Program.

The council meeting involved updates on the federal stimulus package and a CEDC presentation. Discussion included the approval of minutes, city council reports, department reports (city administrator, public works director, city resources director, and chief of police), and a consent agenda item regarding a bed and breakfast liquor permit. Action items covered a second chance animal services agreement, executive search firm review, a PSA for SGM engineering for a geothermal line project, possible action on CEDC recommendations, and possible action on COVID-19 response. Discussion items included a deputy city administrator position and future agenda items. An executive session was held to discuss legal advice concerning marketing and visitor center contracts, CIRSA matters, and a personnel matter. A possible action concerning the personnel matter was also addressed.

The council meeting addressed several key items. Discussion and approval of an intergovernmental agreement (IGA) related to the distribution of CARES Act funds took place, with questions raised regarding employee reimbursement for emergency response efforts. An emergency ordinance concerning open alcohol consumption areas was debated and approved, with amendments to include a "substantial meal" clause and a specific end date. The creation of a Tourism Advisory Committee was approved, with a modification to the membership criteria. Finally, an executive session was held to discuss personnel matters related to the City Administrator position.

The council meeting involved a public hearing for the adoption of the City of Ouray Community Plan 2021, including discussion of the plan's development process and public comments regarding potential inaccuracies and development hazards. A presentation was given by the Home Trust of Ouray County on their efforts to provide affordable housing. Action items included approval of an animal control agreement, an electric vehicle charging station agreement (with conditions added), termination of a geothermal heating agreement, and the tabling of approval for the City of Ouray Community Plan 2021 pending a work session to address minor changes. The Tourism Advisory Committee's strategic plan was approved, and an ordinance adding default judgment provisions to the municipal code was given a first reading and approved. Department reports covered community development, police services, public works, and city resources. Future work sessions were scheduled.