Tom Fisher

The proceedings involved administrative announcements, including outlining court procedures for first-time attendees and discussing a Colorado Supreme Court decision (People versus Camp) regarding municipal court penalties not exceeding state statute penalties. Several cases were addressed. One defendant pleaded guilty to a reduced three-point speeding charge in exchange for completing community service and a math essay, as the original six-point charge required a driving class which was waived due to the offense being based on pacing rather than radar. Another case involved a defendant pleading guilty to three-point speeding, incurring a $100 fine plus costs, with payment deferred. A third case involved a defendant charged with no proof of insurance, where the maximum penalty was discussed, and the plea process began, requiring mitigation for a reduced minimum fine. Later, an attorney waived appearance for a client accepting a two-point speeding disposition. The final case involved a defendant charged with no proof of insurance, where the maximum and minimum penalties were outlined, and the defendant confirmed understanding of rights before proceeding with a plea.

The Planning Commission meeting addressed a modification request (planning file number MODSP25-00003) to a previously approved application located at 101 West Main Street. The key modifications centered on the roof design, shifting from a pitched roof to a flat roof to accommodate mechanical systems, which included adding a mechanical screen for aesthetic concealment. Other substantial changes involved shifting the building location to enhance sidewalk accessibility, adjusting slab steps for functionality, increasing EV parking stalls from two to six, revising unit layouts based on feedback, adding airlocks at entry doors, relocating the elevator, and updating exterior materials (replacing metal with Hardy panels and changing siding color). The project maintains the mandated mixed-use component of 1,546 square feet of non-residential space and 52 residential units. Staff presented findings indicating compliance with town code and the PUD, recommending approval conditional upon incorporating the updated materials and adhering to prior approval conditions. The discussion also touched upon the introduction of a new permitted on-street residential parking process for qualified affordable housing projects.

The special meeting focused primarily on budget discussions and future vehicle purchasing strategy. Key topics included a review of the overall budget of $39.9 million, noting a significant increase over 2020 due primarily to deferred capital projects from the previous year. Staff presented financial summaries showing anticipated fund balances. A major discussion point involved policy questions regarding vehicle purchases, specifically transitioning toward electric vehicles (EVs). Options were presented for testing an electric truck for the Public Relations Agency (PRA) and establishing the necessary charging infrastructure, with costs estimated between $120,000 and $150,000 for the infrastructure. The proposed strategy favored purchasing one electric truck for testing while delaying replacement gas trucks for one year to assess the EV technology's viability in Public Works operations first. The plan also confirmed the continued purchase of hybrid vehicles for the police department.

The work session centered on a presentation regarding the Soul Center project by the Executive Director of The Family Medical Resource Center. Key discussion points included updates on the project's progress, the significant increase in demand for services (with one in three Summit County residents being served), and the need for continued fundraising efforts to meet the $11.9 million goal for the new co-located 18,000 square foot facility with Building Hope, which is projected to save $200,000 annually. The discussion also touched upon the food market's shift to perishable goods, resulting in a large increase in daily visits (from 25 to 300-350), and the introduction of a choice model via iPad for clients. Furthermore, there was a detailed exchange regarding the socioeconomic status of service users, noting that reported household incomes are likely lower than general survey data suggests, often below $35,000 annually due to factors like multiple jobs or lack of full-time employment. The location of the Soul Center near workforce housing was clarified, and support for the funding request was expressed.

The work session was delayed due to an insufficient quorum of members initially present, requiring communications to assemble the necessary attendance, including the Mayor and Town Manager. The primary agenda item involved a detailed presentation by an insurance broker regarding the Colorado Family and Medical Leave Insurance (FAMLI) Program. The discussion covered the state-run program details, benefit calculations (90% of the first 50% of state average weekly wage, then 50% of the next 50%, up to $1100/week), and the options available to government employers, which are not required to participate. The Town's recommendation was to opt out of the state program due to administrative burdens and the desire to provide a more comprehensive, integrated benefit, potentially through their existing carrier, Mutual of Omaha. The Town is leaning toward self-administering an internal benefit or utilizing an Administrative Services Only agreement, exploring options to offer benefits comparable to, or richer than, the state's offering, including a potential buy-up option for higher-wage earners. Reference materials indicated that a majority of surveyed municipalities, including nearby towns, were also opting out in favor of their own programs.