January 18, 2023 — Boulder Junction Access District Regular Meeting

Transcript

Captions from City of Boulder YouTube recording.

[0:00] Recording. It's 4 o 2, and good afternoon. Welcome to the joint older Junction Access district travel, demand management and parking commissions, meeting it's Wednesday, January eighteenth, 2,023, and I will call role Susan here. Rebecca do Michelle. i'm here Jennifer shriver here Ryan cook here Robin Ronin here and Kevin Nap here. Okay, I'll turn the meeting over to our chairs for procedural items. Okay, thanks. Lisa. looks like we will start with the approval of the November minutes. Is there any discussion from the minutes that we're in the packet?

[1:02] A motion to approve? Second. All right, with no comments, you made a motion, and Jennifer made a second seconded. So those have passed public participation. Do we have any members of the public here that would like to speak. not seeing any members of the public. Okay, we will move on to the consent agenda. Are there any comments on the agenda that was included in the packet. Hearing none, we will turn it over to staff. Thank you, Mr. Chair. The first time that we have under matters from staff is commission recruitment. The city clerk's office is currently doing all of their boarding commission. recruitment, and the applications are open right now. as of today at Lisa let's know there are no applications in for the beejad commissions, which is, of course, been an ongoing challenge of

[2:13] of getting folks to apply for this district. We were hoping that as more properties are coming online that there would be more interest. And and we did hear from Commissioner do Michelle this weekend on some suggestions. I do want to provide a cave out of there. We are unfortunately, subjected to some really specific rules based on State legislation for the formation of general improvement districts in the state of how these quasi municipal entities are represented. and so they're. We are really limited in how we can expand

[3:03] the criteria, or loosen the criteria of the of the the chairs or the seats. on the Commission. we can certainly again, as we have in the past reach out and do an email campaign with our contacts in Boulder Junction to get the word out that this opportunity exists. and certainly would like to ask that any that you all do the same, and we can provide a furnace message for you to individually email email out to anybody who you might. I think, would be interested in joining Our Commissions Commissioner to Michelle. yeah. So part of my request was to understand exactly what those limitations are. and what level of effort it would be to do something about it. and then the second thing was, I asked Lisa if we could make it more obvious where the maps are for the district boundaries.

[4:05] so that it would be easier for people to understand whether or not they qualified for property owner. things, Lisa. I know that you added a at least one link. and I i'm sorry I i'm Then in a lot of emergencies at work today. but when I clicked on it it still took me like 3 or 4 links deep before I could find something that actually had the map. So at least from a recruiting perspective, it would be a lot easier if we had like direct links to what the current boundaries are of the 2 districts, because from what I remember, they they are not exactly the same. there. There are some slight differences. They have changed since I've moved to the district. so better understanding that while we're going out we're creating would would be really helpful. So that's the immediate the long term aspect of what are the steps to to make changes? What the left? you know it.

[5:01] It can't be that we can never make changes it Just the answer is, probably it's really hard. that sure. And So there is a conversation going, and this is we're not the only commissions that is having these type of challenges. And so there is ongoing conversations with Council about ways to better engage or simplify our our board and commission recruitment and retention and and process overall. so there are certainly conversations going on. But but of course that always goes back to. Okay, we're we're what are the guard rails that that exist that we don't have complete control over and that comes down to a lot of the things that i'd mentioned about property on a representation required through State legislation. So, barring State legislative. process that that relaxes that requirement.

[6:01] we are. We are bound in many respects. That also translates, I believe, and this might be more local, is the the term. So there was a suggestion that maybe we could reduce the the the number of years of commitment that might be less intimidating for folks who are signing shorter term leases. and so that is also, I think that is local legislation that applies to all of our boards and commissions where there's a staggered number of of, or staggered length of terms. Of course. if we were to to go to shorter terms, and that could lead us to even more vacancies, because we, you know, folks would rotate off a lot quicker. So

[7:00] Yeah, My My request was for that specific. If there was a possible way to make it a renter speed to make it a shorter term for that particular seat, which I realized that there is probably a ton of reasons why that would be very, very hard. but I just wanted to see what the options were sure. I would love to explore You know other possibilities as well, so we can in in the conversation that we're having with the city attorney's office about this challenge, with all the other boards and commissions that are are dealing with long term vacancies. If there are any other thoughts or ideas that that commissioners would like to like us to consider or suggest. we certainly welcome those anyone. Can. We have prettier flyers?

[8:02] I like it, or or maybe a we can get some candy to pass out with them. you. You don't own a van, do you? Chris. Oh, yeah, no. There is that, you know we could. That's been a suggestion. The pass of doing a jury selection approach to boards and commissions instead of people self selecting it's just you get your your summons in the mail, and it's more of a a random selection of folks. anyhow. totally appreciate the the desire and need, and agree that we don't want to continue to find ourselves in this space and want to explore any possibilities to to get these seats filled? I'm seeing a hand up from Ryan.

[9:03] I robin hers up for cool. It's okay. I just was curious about whether there's been anything like kind of like a job fair. But for boards and commissions where they can see what all of them are. Talk to someone. Find out if they're eligible. I don't. I just don't know if that's ever been done in the past. That's a really good question. Lisa in your work. With this the clerk's office on all the Board's commissions. Has there been any discussion of something like that? There has not been any discussion, but I think that's a great idea. I really do so. I'll. I'll certainly suggest it. I do know that the city's communications and engagement team is looking at doing or reigniting, and that's not the right word, but

[10:03] restarting their our annual open house that we we used to have at the Jewish Community center. and I can't remember the name of it right now, but it's an open house of all the different projects and initiatives going on throughout the city. Which is a good opportunity for the community to come out and learn about things like volunteering for the city. so that could be a good opportunity to to have this conversation. And that's going to be probably happening in October. So not good for this round of recruitment, but could be really good for next year's round of recruitment. To make sure that folks who are engaging with that event get solicited to participate in the city at a deeper level through boards and commissions. So I like that suggestion. And and Lisa, have you been pulled into the planning for that Yet

[11:01] I have not. But I bet you will I, that's fine. I'd like to be actually so. Yeah, i'm feeling. I will be too Chris right back to becca so I guess my next question is. since October is really far away, and we actually have events planned that will be local to the district. Maybe we can kind of. There's some awareness then. and I don't know, obviously whether or not they'll open up another window this year, like they have in the past. when we don't fill it in the original. I like that as well, and I imagine that they will. if we don't get applicants in for this round. So we are asking bolder transportation connections to make sure that they are highlighting that that the events that are happening throughout the summer are sponsored by the city and community vitality. And I

[12:01] i'd say what we'll want to add to that and Regan, this is direct to you is making sure that we could have a message brought to you in part by the Boulder Junction access district commissions with some information about what that is, and how people can get involved could be a really good opportunity. so that that will hopefully get some more energy around what the the role of the commissions are. and get some some new interest for sure. So i'll communicate that to to Btc. Chris and make sure that's highlighted during the events definitely great. Thank you. Any more thoughts on commission recruitment. you know, Chris, Just phone up on a comment from Beck on the current maps to the districts. Is that something that you can provide

[13:04] or send her? I I recall that they used to be available. There was a link on the the former website that had those I I don't see them as on the current link that might be helpful. And, Chris, just for your awareness, I did just send you and Lisa Links that we can share out with the group. They take us to the folder email link website. And there's a link to both of those districts. So once you're in that space you can see the 2 overlapping. but I think that might be a good resource. Yeah, and I know previously there were Pdfs of the districts and our Jas Department in within it provides us with. They do all of the mapping for the city, and they used to do Pdf: based maps, and they've transitioned to these electronic maps that we've been linking to on the website. So different from what we used to have. But hopefully, what the links that Theresa is just mentioned.

[14:02] get us to where we need to be. I do. The level of detail is not as great as I recall with the Pdf. approach. But the good thing is is when we've used the Pdf. When we send it out. Then we've got different versions as property our district boundaries have changed over time. It's been hard to to have. Folks being are having the most accurate data. And so using the the email link. and relying on our Js folks to to keep that map updated. is their preferred approach. Well, thanks. Commissioner Schreiber. Thanks. I just wondered if You could quickly recap for us the vacancies on these 2 boards. Sure, Lisa, do you have easy access to that, or do you want me to go over it.

[15:06] We can't hear you. Okay? I can certainly pull it up just to sort of see where we are. As far as vacancies go. Is that? That's the question. Okay, let's take a look here. Okay. So for parking there's one vacant position for parking. It says on the website resident at large. and then for Tdm. Just one vacant position on Tdm. Property owner, representative.

[16:02] So on the agenda on the bottom of the Agenda Lisa. It's showing 2 vacancies on Tdm. I can. I can verify with City Clerk's office just to make sure and we need 5 per commission. So I would. If you if you're referring to the website. So something's up somewhere. There should be 5 commissioners for each. So there should be 2 vacancies for Tdm is the difference, because there's one term ending and 2,023. And you're accounting that person that's staying on. maybe. Is that Kevin Kevin's I think it's probably a Kevin. Yeah. And there are rules in the the city ordinance that say that if there is no person to replace somebody on a commission that the person in the seat is out allowed to stay on. So.

[17:11] Kevin, we would love to have you as long as you're willing to stay with us. or or that means that you're only allowed to leave Once you've recruited Andy Bush to come back. we we need. We might need to start recycling some members here. That which is I mean the Hill Commercial district is also quite small, smaller actually, than B. Jet, and that is what we tend to do. And and Rebecca you this is your second tour of duty. on Bj: so that is what we are used to in in these improvement districts, especially our smaller ones. Not that we don't want new blood. and not that we don't appreciate the institution. Knowledge of the old blood.

[18:04] All right. back to becca. Yeah. so this just goes back to the question about the online map versus the Pdf. Do you know, if there have been any accessibility statements for the online map, or are they easy to read for that people of a variety of backgrounds and ages? Or is there still a need to have like a Pdf with a URL that says, okay, yes, this is the Pdf date. for the latest one. Always go to the website. That's a good question. I do know that the city does have accessibility standards, but we also have a lot of room for improvement overall for the city website. for accessibility. Theresa, I noticed you ping me on a Pdf. That we do have. Yes, so we went through an update we actually had to change one of the boundaries to include the one of the Google properties, as of 2,022. So.

[19:03] as of 2,022. I do have Pdf maps that could be sent in tandem with that email link and the email links are specific to the districts, and then I can also send the an explanation of how you could overlay the maps on top of each other, just going through the main email link. If that would be helpful. and having these I it, it seems like we could easily post these to the website as well. I have a link to them. We just need to make sure that we're staying on top of it, because there had been been some time since the maps have been updated, so the email link will be the most up to date information. And we'll just need to make sure that if we're posting the Pdf. As well that it gets updated regularly as well. so we can certainly get those we should be able to get those added to the website. Thank you. All right. now back to the agenda

[20:04] Next we have an item 23. Bjat approved Budget we've had a lot of conversations about the budget. I wanted to make you all aware of what we were doing with the other commissions particularly. You can't see which again, is our smallest and most They have the the smallest in the levy and therefore they are very much involved. And and wanting to be on top of the information of their annual budget maintenance. But we want to make sure that we're not providing an an unreasonable level of service to that commission versus our other commissions. And so Lisa or sorry Teresa and her team have been working on budget document that we would be, including in all of our commission packets. We've provided you a draft of the Folder Junction

[21:01] fund financials, and these would be updated on every other meeting basis or ever the month basis. So we would include it in each packet. we would provide an updated year to date. report on where we're at with fund revenues and expenditures wanted to give you all a preview of what we are anticipating, and Lisa's, or sorry. My brain is not working very well today. Teresa is here to you know. Entertain your quite thoughts and questions on the way that it's being presented, and and if you're feeling good about it. We will plan to provide an updated fun. Financial attachment to all of your agendas moving forward. Theresa: yeah, anything else to add. No, I think it, Robin, did you have a question? Yeah, I I like the presentation. I guess I was. I guess my first thought is, if I have the question. Somebody else probably does, too. Where is Where are the excess funds being invested? Because we do have the interest in investment earnings here. Just curious. Is there a breakdown of where we're investing those funds?

[22:16] So we are part of a 400 million dollar investment pool that the city has, and that's where our funds go, and then their interest comes off proportional to the amount that we have in our fund balance. And so we yeah, our community vitality is not involved in the investment allocations. That's all managed by the Finance Department. So we we don't we are. We don't have the the details on exactly how you know where those are invested, but it is part of that bigger pool here. Thank you. Thanks for the question. right?

[23:01] Also like the presentation. I think it'd be great to see this in packets throughout the year. We can see the year to day how things are looking etc. I think that's that's awesome. is it? If I had specific questions about certain lines is now an okay time to I I know we've talked about it in the past, but I kind of forget a couple of things. It the first one just had to do with the the jump in the operating costs in 2,023, and for Tdm it looks like it's gone up fluctuated up and down pretty drastically in the last 4 or 5 years. I just was curious what what caused it to go from that 71 K. To the 283 k and so we are on Tdm. You said Pdm. Right. I know the answer to that. If you, if you know the key element here is the difference between budgeted and actuals.

[24:04] So we have seen a dramatic. or I don't want to say dramatic, because that's dramatic a significant decrease in our eco-pass expenses throughout all of our districts as a result of Rtds reduction service and overall reduction in transit usage. So as you can see, back in 3 pandemic we were 103,000 and operating, and before the pandemic we were anticipating with more people moving into the district that are our eco-pass expenses we're going to go up. proportionally. We have not seen that happen, but we have not yet, you know, had the opportunity to or or we're being. We're also being very prudent in in trying to anticipate. Okay, when is our TV gonna come back? We're we're Not sure where. our eco-pass expenses are going to go. So our budget still has our anticipated expenses, knowing that in 2022 we're estimating that that we're only actually we we know based on our contract that we're going to spend a significant

[25:14] less amount on that contract. It doesn't mean that we can't be strategically thinking how to partner with be cycle, ego, karsher, or Colorado car share commutify other Tdm entities to better deploy those funds, and that's certainly a conversation that we want to be having but that's why you're seeing that difference, unless I totally got my wires crossed, and Teresa or Lane went to correct me on that? No, that's accurate. And the and you see that pattern through. basically when those ecosystems costs went down in 2,021 due to the pandemic. And so that's where it kind of tracks all the way back, and we do look forward to being strategic and using those funds in the future

[26:01] got it the eco-passes in that one. great thanks. And then the one other question was the the 2 20 in the parking 2,023 actual for the cost. Allocation and transfer was the jump to the 485 that 175 were transferring back to parking Yeah, it covers 2 transfers. The first is the 175 back to parking, and then there's also a $300. Excuse me $300,000 repayment to a loan from the general fund. So it's a combination of those that are really pushing those one on. So So this is for our reserves. Where is the reserves? Is that on this? So that's not shown here? It's not included on this, just to give a simplistic snapshot view. Happy to include that if that would be helpful.

[27:00] I'm seeing some nods. Okay, I think it. It would be very helpful to include that, thanks to all right. Any other questions or feedback, for Theresa hearing none, I and Sue, I think you it's an old hand you have up we can move forward with an update on the 2,023 community vitality work plan. I'm going to share my screen in just a moment. This is oops. Sorry this is Our smart sheet management system of Just the District Vitality Work plan for community vitality. You'll know we have parking and access arts and culture, special events, customer service and business services.

[28:16] but these are the projects that we have listed specifically for our realm of work in the support of our general improvement districts. and the funds that we manage. They're not necessarily all broken out in the districts because number of our services across all the districts. And so you're seeing here the eco-pass program enhancement we have we provide equal passes in all of the districts that we manage and of course Tdm is a big part of our program. in in all of the districts Reagan, and others are working on our ongoing conversations with transportation and mobility, and partners like older B cycle. on enhancing those modes of transportation in the areas that we serve specifically for beejad. we currently have

[29:05] contracted with Fox Tuttle, and they're doing their trip generation analysis for Boulder Junction right now. We're anticipating them showing up at the March meeting to to let us all know what the trip data is looking like for Boulder Junction. Currently we're in conversations, ongoing conversations with commutify, and we're hoping to to make some additional progress. in this realm. By the end of the year. in continuing to evolve our Tdm portfolio for not just Boulder Junction, but other areas. But knowing that we have a specific fund for transportation demand demand management. Boulder Junction is a great place to pilot things and try new things, and and when they work well we can employ them in other places. we're continuing our work with the way finding and branding. We have our designs from Kma that you all worked on with us last year, and now we're going to move into the actual fabrication and installation.

[30:12] process. We do have Regan here on the call. Do you want to provide any additional update beyond that Regan at this time. Sure, yeah. So like Chris mentioned, we are currently entering phase 2 fabrication installation. So at the moment we're working on drafting an Rfp for this work. and the Rfp. We're anticipating it to be posted through the month of February potentially into the beginning of March. Hopefully, we will have awarded a vendor by April, and if all goes well and according to plan, then the intent to start this work hopefully by this upcoming summer. and again we have presented the approved signage designs to all in previous meetings. But i'm happy to send that around once more for anyone that's curious or interested.

[31:10] Thanks, Regan. I'm going to go through a few more things, and then we can get into questions. If there are any specific questions on on that that project also for Boulder Junction. We have listed on the work plan. There's been a long term conversation around the development of a 10 Year plan. and so we are listing that we still have work to do on on our collaboration with other departments on what? That's going to look like most importantly, planning and I was gonna. This is on our last agenda item under matters from staff, but planning and development services has launched bejad phase 2, if you haven't heard already. They launched after we had finalized our agenda and got that all out to you guys. but there is a a website that's been set up, and we can get more information to you on that. And of course, planning staff will be coming to you all throughout their process.

[32:06] in the development of that plan we want to make sure that development of our district Capital plan. 10 Year Plan is happening in conjunction with their work. As they're contemplating what's going to happen east of the railroad tracks. so more to come on that, but just want to make you all aware that it's that's one of the the elements on our radar screen. of course. as we've been discussing, we have we're looking at commercial area activations where we last year we we identified the $50,000 that we wanted to redeploy an eco-pass savings for activations in boulder junction we're doing similar work in downtown and the hill area so you'll hopefully be participating in lots of fun stuff going on in the districts that we manage throughout the year.

[33:01] as far as district petitions. Theresa remind me, do we have a petition process? We're still working. We are for for for Boulder Junction. There were a couple of interests that we were following up on with the steel yards, I believe. and there's one other I can look up the name of that element properly of it. Yes, so element properties is is currently under construction at the site across thirtieth and they are wanting to petition into the Tdm district. and so their petition might be coming in front of the board hopefully. within the next quarter or 2, some more information to come on that. and then just again, where we have commission cadence and and recruitment work to do for all of our commissions and more work plan there, as well as broader Economic vitality work that we have going on with the city manager's office.

[34:14] So that is a high level overview of all the things that we have planned that are specifically tied to our work in the Boulder Junction districts, and just wanted to provide you all with a a a look into and some insight, and how we are managing this component of the community vitality function while we're together here today. With that i'll stop sharing my screen, and we're happy to entertain questions. on all the things that we have on our plate. Becka. So this is about petitions. the Tvm district is a lower mill, Levy, and it has the most fun stuff. So have we ever made it a requirement that they need to join both

[35:06] in the past. That's a really good question. we have not. but it's really up to the the commissions to determine. the approach that you want to take The conversation around joining in either of the districts has really been leveraged by the the planning review process and planning board wanting to make sure that any developments that are going above the 35 foot height limit and wanting to you know. Increase the intensity of land uses that they are committing to things like the Tdm and parking districts. Historically it seems that folks have been able to get approval from planning, with only committing to joining Tdm and not parking

[36:03] that is translated into a lot of challenges on the administration side. And of course, it means that, property, you know, developers and and property owners. Aren't or some are paying more than others, because some parcels are in both districts, so they pay more in property taxes than those that are just in one and not the other. So so really great question. and certainly from the staff side. It would. Our lives would be a lot easier if we didn't have that weird dynamic. and I know that as the city is contemplating Boulder Junction phase 2 and other general improvement districts in other places across the city like 50, Fifth and Arapaho or Alpine balsam. the the idea of 2 separate commissions. hopefully lessons have been learned, and that it will not be the strategy moving forward, and there will be just

[37:00] access. General, you know, access districts or or something that focuses on all the realms of access and not separating Tdm from parking. So I Again, I think that's a great question, and and the Commission does have some latitude to say we're not. We are not going to accept this petition, because it's only for one of the districts. That said. That means that that instead of having some property under being in both districts or just one district. They're not going to be in either district. which translates into some other challenges when it comes to trying to meet their their Tdm. Goals. So great question. Hopefully, possibly over time, we can correct the disparity by maybe even restructuring the Polar Junction districts into one district at one Mill Levy that does both parking and Tdm. but that's further down the road.

[38:04] Okay, that's helpful. Thank you. Not hearing any other questions on our 2,023 work plan. I did want to just provide a quick update on on the other of the other items that we have going on. You already heard from Reagan on the way finding Sam Bromberg? Who's been hired permanently? in our business services and district vitality Work group is now reporting to Teresa. She is moving forward with the implementation performance based pricing and residential at residential access management, as well as several other district based projects. notably. Maybe you've seen some improvements in the signage and manage parking on street in the Boulder Junction area. Sam has been taking a really close look in partnership with Leo Pelli, our our parking Enforcement

[39:11] Supervisor to make sure that we're treating the curbside equally and and effectively in Boulder Junction. And so she's going to continue to be focusing on some of those improvements on top of Our broader responsibilities with access management and parking strategy. and you'll be hearing more about that and some signage improvements that are going to be going in around town at as well as commutify as a part of that in the March meeting is what she's currently anticipating and I think that covers everything. I mentioned Boulder Junction phase 2. We will get some links out that we've gotten from the planning department, so that you all can be involved to the greatest extent that you're willing to be. They are looking specifically for Boulder Junction stakeholders, and I think you are all key stakeholders for Boulder Junction.

[40:08] and if you have the capacity and interest. I would ask you to please do plan to sign up with their stakeholder opportunities as a representative of the commissions. and again they will be coming to you with formal agenda items. throughout the year as well. and with that, unless there are any questions on all the stuff we have going on. Happy to move on to matters from commissioners. Rebecca is a for staff. I I I have a pleasure of of taking the survey for the I like. Did I miss you talking about that or not? Okay, I'll hold my question or

[41:06] thank you for saying that I completely jumped over that agenda. Item: so yes, the city has launched the downtown streets as public Space Project. This is led by transportation and mobility, and the planning department with community vitality and communications and engagement as supporting departments. Reagan is on the project team, will also have Justin Greenstein, our senior manager of special events participating on the internal working group. It sounds like at least one of you has taken the the online questionnaire that was launched. just over a week ago. I heard yesterday. We've had already over 900 responses, which is just incredible for be heard Boulder engagement opportunity. we can absolutely get a link out to you all to the project website, the questionnaire. And there's also an interactive map. that will be live throughout the duration of the project where folks can

[42:14] point and click on a map of downtown and the city of where they would like to see streets reimagined. So just, you know, certainly want to encourage you all to participate in that process. And I might not be able to answer all questions. But community vitality is certainly closely involved in this conversation. and with that becca. Thanks. okay. So the first one is about that link to the map. It's on the confirmation page after you take the survey, so it's really easy to skip over. In fact, I did the you know at first, until somebody told me that the map is built up, so I think maybe something with fonts or something before the Thank you. Button. Something might make that easier for people to find

[43:02] sure that yes and because the map will be a live engagement opportunity throughout the duration, even though the questionnaire ends at the end of of January, will still welcome People's input on the map. And so there, if there's not already, there should be a a link on the Project website specifically to the map. Okay, all right. And then the second thing I had was, there were a couple of answers in the prioritization that were grouped together. That may not be the same audience. So the one that comes to mind was. You know it's really important for me to have parking for my bike or car. and at least in my circle. There's probably a lot of people who would really like one or the other, and are opposed to the other one. and I feel like the result that we would get back from a survey that group. Those together may not show that

[44:03] difference and prioritization sure. And and I think that well, we didn't write the survey and certainly don't i'm not like you. I'm just like, how do we make it better? Well, and i'd say that that you know the intent of that question is, is not to determine priority for what other? V. You know other people's vehicles should be. It's what level as your prior, so regardless of the vehicle that you're trying to store. It's it's about you know what e scooters or or horses, or whatever vehicle you've used to get to downtown. if you can't bring it into the your destination with you, how important is being able to store that vehicle, whether? Yes, certainly. A car is very different from a bike. but if you've had to store something, we at the city

[45:00] have to represent the whole community, and in their needs, so I I i'll totally understand and appreciate the perspective. and that's the challenge in in the writing of these types of questionnaires is is is. how do we make sure it's measuring the the importance to a person, not about what they think about other people's, modes of transportation, but for their specific modes of transportation and needs, and it. and not making it a super long advocacy, tool, or super long survey that takes way too long. So it was. It was really challenging to try to get it to a spot that would be a digestible for the whole broad audiences that we're trying to reach in this. Oh, yeah, it might work. I mean, we've spent a lot of time going over survey questions and it and splitting that prioritization may result in overwhelming support for something I don't support right? I mean it may flip the entire way. I'm just.

[46:03] I would be cautious that if that was the number one priority across all audiences. that we used it to support one thing or the other and interpreted it that way so sure. And I think that will also be adamant. That this is not the the question, the results of the questionnaire, not the data point that are going to determine. the decisions that we make in this process, it will be a data point for consideration. Another key element is is thinking about the cross tibulations that we do. because there were key questions around the types of the modes of transportation that people are willing to use on a on a typical good weather day. And then when we cross tab that with other questions and values and prioritization, there, there might be a story that comes out. That, again is a point of information along the decision making process, but not the determination, and just want to make sure that that that's why we call it a a questionnaire, not a survey. It's not statistically

[47:09] valid, because it is, you know we're. We want everybody to engage in this conversation. and certainly not taking the results of the questionnaires gospel of exactly what we should do, but making sure that it's it is a a step along the way. No, I'm excited about this the questionnaire and the app and God we're revisiting this great Thank you all right. Any other questions on the 2,023 community vitality, work, plan, or better, from staff. All right. Thank you, Mr. Chair. Back to you. We can't hear you. Great thanks, Chris. Mayors from Commissioners.

[48:03] Anyone have anything to discuss starting with Robin? Okay. thanks. right. Is I I was thinking about Rebecca's question about when properties opt to petition into the district. Did they ever get asked to do both? So I went. I just was curious looking at the city's website for the districts. Does does each department control the content for the pages that kind of fall under their purview control is a is not necessarily the word I would use, but we do have the influence you help provide the content, and then it gets

[49:03] put out there. So the the Tdm district has a pretty cool project. Page. That kind of explains what people get by being in that district. The parking district doesn't really have really any explanation of why it exists. Just kind of. There's a page there that says that it does exist. It just was kind of curious like. It might be kind of interesting to have a corresponding project page like the Tdm district does. It just kind of explains like why the district does exist. Maybe that it goes on the district page, or maybe it's kind of a project page like the Tdm. One has but just a a thought. That's a really great suggestion, Thank you. And Ryan. I I had a similar comment here just on the the matters from Commissioners was to revisit. You know the Bjed parking the mission and the 10 mills that we charge, I mean, I think, that the the reason that projects Aren't opting into the be get parking is because they're not receiving anything in return from it.

[50:01] obviously in the the Tdm. There, there's benefits there for most employees and and the residents. I continue to think that the 10 mills that we charge there, is detrimental to the vitality of the district. even without I mean, if you we take out the it goes $475,000 in debt payments that we anticipate to making this year in lump sums that the project would have excess revenue of, you know. $300,000. I think. you know we we need to answer the question of to Ryan's point of you know what is the the intended to district, or all properties that are in the district benefiting from the district. Why would future properties opt into the district, and is 10 mills? The right amount of taxation to have moving forward. Mine's just a comment on. I agree that it doesn't feel like we're getting anything in return for it. So. And in fact, it feels like we're stuff that I think other people coming to park into the district.

[51:11] so I I may. I mean there is from to make sure it is just a request that revisit it. either in the next meeting or or the one after that take a look at, you know ongoing, you know. Maybe there's budget beyond this year into next year. looking at the ongoing debt payments as a refresher that we have after these 2 months payments. If there's debt remaining, and kind of a operational overview of. you know the cost of the the district needs to cover moving forward because I I don't think there's a whole lot of availability for the district to expand the services as in provide more parking

[52:00] 2. So when we discuss this. you'll make clear out. what people do get if they're in the district. and also, if they choose to be in the parking district, that means they have less parking. Is that correct? So if, like the element, property chooses to be in both texture, they would have to reduce their parking in some way. That is, that is correct. I'm happy. Sorry to. I don't want to interrupt, but The purpose of the parking district is to allow for there to be no parking requirement for commercial uses? The district assumes that parking liability for any properties that are in the district. Of course, right now our only asset to do with which to do that is the depot square garage, presumably as we've paid off that

[53:03] debt. then the resources that we have accumulated or are anticipating, could be bonded against to provide additional parking if that's was needed in the district, so that properties did not have to build their own parking, or maybe not build parking, but purchase parking. That's already been constructed from a existing projects in the district to have the city assume control and management of those assets. and i'm just thinking, you know this is just me thinking out loud, not saying this is what we're going to do. So it would be an opportunity for there to be a 1 point of contact for all the shared parking. It's really about realizing the some principals shared on bundled manage, paid, parking

[54:06] within the district as part of our toolbox to encourage folks to use other modes of transportation, and i'm not suggesting that's what we are doing, but it's a realm of possibility that I think, is tied to that Boulder Junction capital planning. there are different routes that we can go from here. Once we paid off our debt with the depot square garage. One possible route is reducing the tax burden within be jaded parking. If we are not planning to do any more parking acquisition or construction, that's one route, or there. There is another route on the other end of the spectrum that is, taking on more ownership of of that component of the access district, and understanding what that would cost. I mean. maybe leasing. Maybe we lease all of the still yards parking and make that part of the Bjed Parking's portfolio and and and pull them into the fold of both Tdm and parking.

[55:09] And then all those folks get equal passes, and we all are super happy that they all now get to take transit more often, and Rtd. Is going to show up and provide tons of service, and there's going to be a train, anyhow, but what she gets is the opportunity to buy a spot in the garage. I I don't understand what she gets for paying this tax it it. I, from my standpoint not much right. I'm i'm helping pay down the dots. But I have my own parking spot, but was purchased as far as my condo, so I don't need any other spots. My neighbors, who would maybe benefit from the equivalent of a neighborhood parking permit, or at least a reduced rate for street parking. Don't get that either which could be a possible benefit, maybe. that I would suggest as something right, not taking away the payment in total, but

[56:03] maybe the production I don't know right, and maybe the middle Zone is creation of one district instead of 2 at overall averaged mill levy rate. So instead of 5 for one and 10 for the other, it's we're meeting in the middle, and it's it's 8. I don't know and so we we kind of right now that we've split the baby, and how do we put things back together and make it fair and equitable for everybody. And which direction do we want to head? Right? And that's I think that is the conversation that we want to be having in partnership with planning as they're contemplating Bjed Phase 2, and that we want to be developing our long-term capital plan for the existing districts that could include one of those routes. so could we say that parking is really expensive, and everybody pays for it, regardless of whether they use it or not.

[57:03] Is that kind of what got us in this predicament. because it does sound like she's subsidizing commercial spaces. That should be a that's a fair question, and we can certainly include that in the analysis and conversation. Okay. Okay. So do we think that that is an item that we can revisit here in the in this year. i'd say at the very least, we can make sure that we continue to carry that component of the conversation forward. because they the conversation about districts at the city is not going to end. We just want to make sure that we're doing it well and effectively, and and not what I like what I

[58:00] like to say, and I this is on the record. But you know the roads in Boulder Junction were paved and good and good intentions. here's what we like to say, but now we're on the flip side of it, you know, 1213 years down the road. and these are really good questions, and we want to make sure that we're. If there are things that need to be corrected, we need to make. We need to understand what those correct, what corrections are needed, and make them; and also make sure that as the city's contemplating additional districts elsewhere in the city that we're not repeating these mistakes. but this body has the the authority to reduce the levy correct. You do have the in that sort of yes, as long as council as long as Council agrees with your recommendations. Ryan. Did you have something that we can't hear you just kind of a Meta note. We've talked about it a few times at the end of meetings in the last year, and it it's always insights kind of like a flurry of conversation, and we all get excited, and what not. So I I think, continuing to find ways to

[59:13] work towards. You know the future planning like it ties into so much of what our are in our goals. The 10 Year Plan, the future of the district, the capital, etc. So I just I think. we're all very excited to help out and help get the future of the parking district. And in the right spot. Does the district have the ability to right. Now the incentive for parking seems primarily taylor towards commercial. So if it if a property petitions in they have the reduction in in the parking requirements for commercial? Does

[60:01] Can that change to include parking reductions for residential? Or is that mandated by other things? If there is new construction that might want to opt in like. Let's say we're talking about the phase 2 area or something to that effect. So for Boulder Junction specifically. there are really clear requirements around the some principles shared, unbundled, manage paid. So it's not. It's. It's a little bit different from our our other districts. where, like in the downtown cage. It assumes all of the commercial parking liability. And so there is a 0 parking requirement within the boundaries of caged for commercial properties, but there is still a residential parking minimum for any residential projects. in the downtown or elsewhere, for that matter. for bee jad Specifically, it's a little bit more nuanced in in this whole sump

[61:03] approach where there's a ton of residential projects in Boulder Junction, and the assumption that the city, you know, in the planning realm and on council is that is, that even if folks are driving less. a majority of people still own cars and need a place to store them. when they're not headed to the mountains, or whatever they you know, whatever they do, use their cars for And so that's why we have these shared parking garages that isn't just residential uses only their public parking during the day. for those commercial properties. So it is a. It's this. It is a different animal in Boulder Junction. and it's tied to the planning process and planning boards contingent approval of of the highest and best use of 55 feet

[62:01] in a densifying area. I could see this being a key part of the Boulder Junction phase 2 conversation of of what elements are working, what elements Aren't: because there are elements that aren't working right. People who are not familiar with Boulder Junction do not know where the public parking is. We have a lot of anonymous driveways that lead to public garages, and people don't know that they are allowed to park there. I i'd say we're probably fortunate that folks like Twitter have not returned to work or s or splunk and all. You know all these commercial uses that theoretically are using parking spaces during the day. that are then being used by residents at night. If everybody who's working at home. you know it is always home, and everybody who is working in an office is also coming into an office. We might be having a a vehicle storage challenge in Boulder Junction because our Td. Has been not meeting there end of the deal and providing other types of trips to the area.

[63:09] So we're not right there right now. But I could see this being a big part of the conversation with planning Of what? What do we want to duplicate from Boulder Junction? and the transit Village Area plan in this space to conversation, and if we're not duplicating it in this next phase. Does that mean that we need to be restructuring it? in the existing Folder Junction area. and I jump in I think part of Ryan's question was, what, whether or not residential got a reduction in parking. There is a parking maximum for residential, and which I'm Chris kind of went over with the some stuff, but just making that clear that there's already a maximum of one spot per unit, not one spot per bedroom, but one spot per unit. So

[64:03] at least developers are already getting a reduction in parking when they're building As far as I know, there's no corresponding minimum. There's not. There has to be one spot per unit. But there is a map of one spot per unit. Thank you. Yeah. Well, obviously, I think the request is just for the beginning of a longer more worth that all conversation. But I think we're at a a good point right now in the development of the district where I don't think we're going to see more opportunity to field parking within the current footprint the boundaries of the districts, and if there's interest in acquiring parking, that's a a discussion we should start boring into. And you just discussion. We should have as part of the the 10 Year Plan and the look ahead and the budgets. So thanks, Rebecca.

[65:01] I have one more question. because of that parking maximum. What would happen if a residential complex was already built with more parking than that, and then wanted to join the parking district. Is there any kind of legacy like. or issues with that? Not I. So it's a good question. I'm. I'm not a a planning lawyer. but I would presume that they would be grandfathered in whatever regulations were in place when they were constructed is what they are held to, not the new land use regulations. Okay. but that said, I mean, I say that what we what we'll want to explore with you all in this conversation is, you know there are a number of paths that we could take moving forward, and would certainly

[66:02] we'll be coming to all for guidance, and advice. On which path we all collectively think we should be going down ultimately to then have the conversation with council. and I think it makes a ton of sense to make sure that that's tied into the decisions that are being made for phase 2. Okay, some more to come there. Anything else? Matters from commissioners seeing none. We have our next meeting, Wednesday, March fifteenth at 4 Pm. And that's it for today. Thank you to Staff and everyone else. Thank you so much, everybody. This is a really helpful discussion. Thank you. Oh, actually. no. Sorry I I actually just that question for Chris. But I I will. I can also just email him.

[67:01] Okay, we still need a motion to adjourn. Right. I need to go ahead and make one. It's so moved I I moved to the this meeting. and that is the one action that can be taken without a motion. Not the chair is that it can call a meeting to an end. Whenever they like. Enjoy that amazing time, and Robin, i'm happy to stay on first. Let's let's stop recording now. Lisa if you don't mind, and then.