Town of Collbran

The discussion centered on a proposed subdivision application, specifically reviewing the sketch plan (Item C of attachments). Key topics included future annexation for residential use, the vacation of an existing cul-de-sac, and potential impacts on drainage ponds. Concerns were raised regarding wildlife conflict mitigation, with recommendations from CPW concerning trash control and prohibitions against backyard chickens or bees, although these were noted as recommendations, not requirements, except for a prohibition on feeding deer. The committee discussed road configuration, street width compliance with existing standards, and the need for sidewalks, including potential expansion to both sides of the street for safety, contingent upon further review. The necessity of a traffic study was questioned given the planned 42 housing units on a narrow street. The discussion also covered the development approach (selling lots versus building spec homes), the intention to attract new residents, and the potential impact on tax assessments (shifting from agricultural to residential rates). Utility capacity, specifically wastewater impact and the use of water storage tanks, was addressed. Furthermore, questions arose regarding subdivision design standards, the role of the town engineer, and the process for covering attorney and engineer fees related to plan examination, which are to be rolled into the application fee upon final approval. The session noted that multiple subsequent submittals for detailed engineering plans would be required if the sketch plan is approved.

The session included training presented by CERSA's Associate General Counsel, Nick Cotton Bas, covering several core concepts for public officials: the role of the public official, organizational structure and liability, transparency (primarily Open Meetings Law), ethics, and due process requirements. A major focus was on best practices to enhance effectiveness and reduce individual and organizational liability risks. Discussions detailed liability under the Colorado Governmental Immunity Act (CGIA) for negligence versus willful and wanton conduct, including consequences related to denying permits, defamation, and civil rights claims (First Amendment, due process, equal protection). The structure of the statutory town government (board as governing body, administrator overseeing staff) was also reviewed, emphasizing that board power lies in collective decision-making, not individual action.

The meeting addressed procedural matters concerning the appointment of a town attorney, confirming that direction for staff to negotiate a contract with a specific firm (Nerous Stack and Wombacher) can be given without a formal agenda item, although a consensus vote was taken. Significant discussion revolved around the pending resignation of the current town attorney, citing inconsistent board direction and issues regarding individual trustees seeking outside counsel. The board will schedule the formal RFP for a new town attorney for advertising across multiple platforms (Daily Sentinel, CML listserv, BidNet, and Indeed.com). Additionally, the board approved several consent agenda items, including a resolution authorizing bank signature changes, approval of an annual workbased learning program agreement with Culvin JobCore (with clarification on the Executive Director title), approval of a contract with Distl Consulting LLC for grant assistance, and approval of change orders related to contracts with Smith Professionals and the assist engineer for the CBurn remodel.

The meeting commenced with the pledge of allegiance and roll call. Key discussion points included public comments from individuals regarding street lighting and water service lines, and general comments about streamlining building permit approvals. The board also discussed future agenda policies, particularly regarding building permits and water/sewer tap fees, and the timeline for hiring a full-time town administrator. Significant actions taken included the resolution appointing a new law firm, Nazarenus, Stack, and Wombacher, as the town's attorney and approving the representation agreement for legal services with the same firm. Additionally, the board considered and approved a street closure request for the upcoming October Fest event scheduled for September 12th. Finally, a resolution was considered to formally declare the previous town attorney position vacant, effective at the end of the 30-day withdrawal notice period.

The meeting agenda included a request to swap the order of public comments due to a member running late. Key discussions focused heavily on the Pulburn Auditorium renovation project following the discovery of asbestos-containing materials in October 2024, which necessitated state permitting and abatement work, expected to be 65% complete by the end of February. The board was asked to provide direction from four options: complete abatement and demolish, complete abatement and finish the original scope, complete abatement and include previously discussed additions, or complete abatement and defer a final decision. The financial implications were presented, noting that grant funds totaling over $1.1 million would be lost if the project were terminated, requiring the town to absorb the full cost incurred to date. A motion was passed to proceed with Option Three, which involves completing the abatement and finishing the renovation with additional scope items, including canopy roof/siding upgrades, ADA restroom upgrades, and adding a prep sink.