April 19, 2021 Video Board Meeting
Transcript
Describer:
AGENDA
Board of Directors Meeting
Monday, April 19, 2021, at 6:00 p.m.
7404 Yorkshire Drive, Castle Pines, CO 80108
1.Welcome / Call meeting to order / Pledge of Allegiance.
2.Roll call / Determination of quorum / Disclosure of potential conflicts.
3.Consider approving April 19, 2021 board meeting agenda.
4.Consider approving March 15, 2021 board meeting minutes.
5.Opening public comment period via Zoom (three-minute maximum per person).
6.Project updates and insights from the City of Castle Pines’ designated liaison to CPNMD’s board of directors, Councilwoman Deborah Mulvey.
7.Open Space Manager’s report.
8.Finance Director’s report.
- Consider approving financial report, payables, and claims for payment, including check numbers 25930-26005 (March 6, 2021–April 9,2021).
General Fund & Debt Service Approve $54,530.73 Ratify $44,189.58 Totals $98,720.31
Enterprise Funds Approve $132,369.27 Ratify $213,427.54 Totals $345,796.81
Electronic Payments (all funds) Approve $0.00 Ratify $84,009.47 Totals $84,009.47
Total Expenditures Approve $0.00 Ratify $0.00 Totals $528,526.59
9.Legal Counsel's report.
- Election update and status of proposed Inclusion of CPNMD’s water wastewater utilities with those of the Parker Water & Sanitation District.
10.District Manager’s report.
- Next Clean-Up Castle Pines Day scheduled for Earth Day morning:
Date: Thursday, April 22, 2021
Time: 9:00 a.m. to 10:30 a.m.
Location: Coyote Ridge Park Pavilions
11.Directors’ matters.
- Consider refining and/or adopting RESOLUTION 2021-04-19-01, concerning mail-ballot Question 6A on the proposed Inclusion of CPNMD’s water & wastewater utilities with those of the Parker Water & Sanitation District (PWSD). The mail-ballot election commences late in the week of April 12, 2021, and conclude at 7:00 p.m., on Tuesday, May 4, 2021.(See working draft resolution attached.)
12.Closing public comment period via Zoom (three-minute maximum per person).
13.Adjourn
Describer:
The video starts on graphic with a white background and forest green letters which says “Castle Pines North Metro District Board Meeting April 19th, 2021”. The meeting opens on a shot of all board members present. There is also a T.V. screen showing the Zoom meeting for people joining the meeting via Zoom.
Board President David McEntire:
Welcome everybody attending tonight's meeting and those of you that are viewing online. Again welcome as a quick reminder those that are Zooming in this evening if you would please make sure your video is on and your audio is off till we get to that public meeting time and when called upon at that time turn your audio on.
So again welcome colleagues if you will join me in the Pledge of Allegiance. We'll get to the rest of the matters thereafter.
Describer:
The board members and the audience rise from their seats and recite the Pledge of Allegiance. When they are done, they sit down again.
All Speak:
I Pledge of allegiance to the flag of the United States of America and to the Republic for which it stands. One nation under God, indivisible, with liberty and justice for all.
David:
Very good. I'm going to call roll. Please affirm your attendance as well as disclose any conflicts if you have any at that time.
Board Member Director Robert Merritt:
Director Merritt. Present, no conflicts.
Board Member Director Denise Crew:
Director Crew. Present, no conflicts.
Describer:
Chris Lewis is speaking via the Zoom meeting.
Board Member Director Chris Lewis:
Director Lewis. Present, no conflicts.
David:
We expect Director Lowen to miss the meeting. But he did indicate that he may attempt to try to Zoom in.
So if he joins us please let me know and we'll recognize him at that point. I am here. I have no conflicts. We have established a quorum. Item number three is our consideration of the April 19th 2021 board meeting agenda everyone has had the meeting agenda for some time we've worked through it. I think we've got it whittled down to where we would like to have it this evening moving forward.
At the same time if you're interested in considering the approval of the March 15 Board meeting minutes again having had them work through them. I think we're where we want to be to address both of those jointly. Is, is there a motion that wants to be made?
Robert:
I'll make a motion to consider approving the April 19th 2021 board meeting agenda as well as approving the March 15th 2021 board meeting minutes.
Denise:
I'll second.
David:
Great we have a motion by director Merritt and a second by director Crew to, not only approve the board meeting agenda for this evening, but also the minutes from March 15 2021.
Board Voting All Speak:
All those in favor signify by saying aye. Aye. Aye. Any opposed?
David:
Hearing none, motion carries. I will remind everybody that our next meeting. Following this meeting is post-election.
We may dwell on that subject just a little bit this evening. Given the fact that this is our last meeting before, same. But it is scheduled for May 17th next month. So mark your calendars. Look forward to visiting with you at that time. I am going to open up at this time the public comment period.
Those via Zoom, again, making sure that your video is on, your audio is off until recognized, and then you have the floor.
Describer:
Someone unknown off camera in the background is saying “Belinda King is with us.”
David:
I'm sorry?
Describer:
Someone unknown off camera in the background is saying “Belinda King is with us.
Then Denice says “Belinda King” to David off camera and off mic. David leans toward Denise and says “Belinda?” Off mic to Denise. Then Denise leans to David and says “Belinda King”.
Describer:
Chris and Ken are speaking via Zoom.
Chris:
Can't hear you, Ken.
Director of Communications Ken Smith (CPNMD):
Belinda King is with us.
David:
Do I have a sign-in sheet?
Ken:
She's the only one.
David:
Oh, okay.
Ken:
For my text.
David:
Oh, well, there you go. No wonder I don't have a sign-in sheet. Ms. Belinda King, thank you for joining us, joining us this evening. You have the floor.
Belinda King Castle Pines Resident:
I just thank you all and the whole board for all the work that you do. And just kind of an update that we're at with the Daniels Gate. And we're working through the water issue.
David:
Very good. Thank you, you still have the floor. Last chance. Anything else?
Belinda:
Just again, thank you all for the whole board for all that you do to help us here in the city.
David:
Well, that was very kind of you. Thank you so much. We appreciate you and your engagement in, in, at the local level and tonight's meeting.
Thanks so much. Directors, anything that you would like to add in this comment period? Hearing none, I'm going to close. Tonight's open public comment period number one. We've got one at the tail end of the meeting and, and so if anybody joins us between now and then I'm sure I'll get a text. All I need is my, my phone. That'd probably help wouldn't it. Golly geez.
All right We're back up to speed item number six. This is the project updates and insights from the city council. From the city of Castle Pines designated liaison, Ms. Councilwoman Deborah Mulvey. Councilwoman, you have the floor.
Describer:
Deborah is speaking via the Zoom meeting.
Deborah Mulvey, City Council member for District 1:
Thank you. Good evening, members of the board. I just want to thank you all tonight because it looks like everything seems to be going smoothly with your election. And you've gotten information out there.
I don't get a ton of questions about the inclusion. And I think that's a service to what you all have done. There's been some questions about the Excel pipeline. Which is in your backyard over there. People want to know what is happening and what the construction is in the Lagae area. We're doing a lot of work with economic development. But that doesn't include the pipeline.
The pipeline is for Excel gas service to the canyons and it will run. We put out a map I believe today. And it will run from your area down along the excel pipelines essentially north, south and then cut over behind the first neighborhood behind King Supers. And then go under the highway and serve gas to the canyons.
So that's about it that we've got going on. We've been doing some housekeeping, updating our nuisance code. And it's all in process. So if you have any questions, I'm happy to address them.
Denise:
Deborah, one quick question. Do you have a timeline on the natural gas line? How long that's going to take?
Deborah:
I don't. You know, I'll ask about that for you. I believe it'll take less than a month, is what my understanding is. Because a lot of the big work was the grading. And I think that part's been done.
They made a lot of progress so far. I think it'll be done in stages too. So we'll see the part that's in your direct backyard behind your building done first. And then they're moving south and east.
David:
Jim, I think you probably have an update that you could share. That would expound on what councilwoman Mulvey has. Go ahead, Jim.
District Manager Jim Worley:
I do thank you Mr. President, yes. Deborah, actually it's going to take about three months for the whole project. Which is still relatively short. And so I have had a couple of calls from neighbors around here. Wondering what we're building right next to our building.
And just so everybody knows we're not building a four-story building or anything. It's a temporary construction easement. Whatever work you see right outside of our office here. And by the parking lot is a temporary construction area. So they'll be working with that but I, I've been told by the lady who I deal with directly at Excel that it's about a 90-day project from start to finish.
So if anybody has any questions during the time that's going on and they just want to know more about it, they can sure reach out to me. But it should be out of here pretty quick, I hope. Thank you, sir.
Deborah:
Thank you for the clarification. I appreciate you having more insight on that.
David:
Anyone else for Deborah?
I think that's a wrap, Deborah. Thank you for joining us this evening. You can stay tuned and maybe pick up a straight question at the end of the meeting. But that’s strictly up to you and, and again. Thanks for being here and thanks for the input. I'm gonna close item six and hastily move to item seven which is our Open Space Managers Report.
Everyone has had a copy of that report. Had the opportunity to read through it. A lot going on, a lot of preparation moving towards spring. I think Craig is with us this evening. Mr Miller are you on?
Craig Miller, Supervisor, Parks, Trails, and Open Space, CPNMD:
I am.
David:
You have the floor.
Describer:
Craig is speaking via the Zoom meeting.
Craig:
Yeah, so you all have my report. Does anybody have any questions?
There's a few things I would like to highlight.
David:
You know, just given the subject at hand. I don't have any questions about your report Craig. However, I know we, we do have a. A Open Space Parks Trails cleanup day scheduled this week.
Describer:
Craig said “Yep” in between David’s sentences.
David:
Barring any unforeseen, like what's happening outside as we speak.
Describer:
Craig said “Exactly” and briefly kept talking to where we could not hear the rest of what Craig said.
David:
Anybody have a weather, you have a weather report or prognostication?
Craig:
It actually looks like the weather should be pretty good for that day. So I don't expect any, any hiccups in that regard. Anybody else have any further questions?
David:
Again, not having a specific question about your report. Well done, we did have some.
Craig:
I would like to highlight the help that Nathan gave us on the district's irrigation backflow preventers. He actually hired a contractor to check every single one of our backflow preventers. Every single one passed with flying colors except for one which was repaired.
The other thing that I think is really exciting is all those old rusty metal cages that you see along Castle Pines Parkway and along Monarch Boulevard are going to be replaced with. New cages that are going to be rust-proof polymer cages. Green for the grassy areas and brown for the rock areas. So that should clean up the appearance of the roadways quite a bit. Because to my eyes, that's been quite an eye sore for quite a few years.
So I wanted to give Nathan kudos for the work that he did on that. Because that was really outstanding. Jim and I did have a meeting with Esperanza residents today. That were littering on our open space. They were putting yard waste on our open space and it was reported to me by several residents of a neighboring community. And we gave them a week and a half before we met with them. And they were kind enough to clean everything up to our satisfaction.
They really stepped up to the plate. Because basically you just can't throw clippings and needles and branches on the open space. They did a fabulous job cleaning up so that went extremely well today. And residents shall remain nameless. Are to be recommended for that. That's about all I've got.
David:
Thanks, Craig. Appreciate that. As a byproduct of some of the meetings we had earlier today, you need to know that, that I think the next clean up area. While it might come a little quicker than the others. Having missed the winter cleanup, we might expedite or fill in between this next one. And the summer one.
But along Monarch so.
Craig:
That's always a hot spot.
David:
Yeah. Very good. All right. Anyone else?
Craig:
Thank you, Mr. President.
David:
All right. I'm going to close item seven and open up item eight. Welcoming Eric and Amanda, the team from Pinnacle Consulting Group. Welcome.
Financial Director Eric Harris:
Good evening board and public. In your packet this evening, you have the March 2021 financial statements for Castle Pines North Metropolitan District. Going, we were still obviously pretty early on in the year and just, you know, with the snow outside just getting started with, you know. We will be getting started with the open space and summer program.
So not too many budget variances. But I do want to point out just a couple items as we enter into this next month. Primarily looking at our water service revenue. If you move to page 12 and as a component of the memo, you will see compared to prior years. We're still under our usage historically just for this year remaining last year was a relatively warm year.
And so, we're currently just under budget so far for the year. So it's one item to point out. Additionally, within our wastewater fund, what you will see on page 15 of the financial report. You'll note three, three expense items which are related to the collection, repairs and maintenance, emergency response, and chemical treatment. Those are all expecting to, you know, be a little bit above budget this year. Namely for all the activities that the district is undertaking this year. As noted in my memo related to the stench mitigation efforts.
As of right now, we're currently neck deep in the audit. We're just, the auditors are in field work right now. They'll exit that this week and then we'll move into the report drafts. And we hope by this time next month. We'll have an audit report for your, for your review. And then we're also planning, planning our activities post, post election. So we can line up our timeline for the inclusion if it so passes.
So primarily the financial items that do have to occur. And with that will be, going along with proposed budget amendments for later this year. Reflective of the arrangements within the approved inclusion agreement. And we will be looking towards, of course, the 2022 budget season as well. With that, are there any questions?
David:
I got the communication you sent out this afternoon. Eric, want to acknowledge that given the opportunity and let you know I appreciate you staying on top of that. I look forward to having that conversation with you and Amanda. We too are poised to act. Reflective of the wishes of the residents on May 4th.
And so they probably behoove us to wait until then to have that specific meeting. But up until then, appreciate you staying right on top of that. And thank you for the meeting. Or the report this evening. I don't have any questions on this month's report specifically. Robert, Denise, Chris anything?
Chris:
I'm good. Thank you.
Robert:
Same here.
Looked over. Thanks
Describer:
David says “good job” the same time that Eric says “thank you all.”
Eric:
Thank you all. If that's the case, then I'll go ahead and enter, for the record. The claims presented for ratification and approval this evening. Just for clarity, we have the general fund and debt service to enterprise funds. And we specifically earmark out the electronic payments. Just for clarification, because I don't know if this has been stated since this board has been. These electronic payments are specifically related to a number of different things.
Payroll, district paid utilities, finance charges related to the treasury management of all the, the district operations. So we partition those out monthly just within that. But those charges certainly do borderline between the general fund and enterprise payables. That's why they're presented that way. So I just wanted to specifically state that. For the general fund and debt service, we have for approval, $54,530.73 and $44,189.58. For a total of $98,720.31 presented. Within the enterprise funds for approval this evening. We have $132,369.27 presented for approval. For ratification, $213,427.54. For a total of $345,796.81.
As stated for our electronic payments, we have $84,009.47. For a grand total presented, $528,526.59.
Are there any questions specific to the payments presented this evening and in the board packet?
Denise:
I'd like to make a motion to approve the financial reports, payables and claims for payment. Including check numbers 25930- 26005 from March 6th, 2021 to April 9th, 2021.
Chris:
I second it.
David:
Got a motion on the floor. Thank you for that clarity, Eric.
A motion on the, on the floor from Director Crew. Second by Director Lewis. Any further discussion about the matter? Seeing none, hearing none. I call for a vote.
Board Voting All Speak:
All those in favor signify by saying aye. Aye. Aye. Aye. Any opposed? Hearing none mash, motion approved unanimously. Thank you again Eric and Amanda. Thanks for joining us. Taking the time out this evening.
I'm going to close with that item eight and move to item nine. Council, we are in receipt of your report. Seems to have gotten a bit lengthy. Looking forward to taking a couple of those off this evening. Not that that is any indication of any pre-approval. So it looks like we've got three items that we could act on this evening.
And my colleagues and I are, are poised to do just that if, if your report and recommendation remains. So at this point, you have the floor. Go ahead.
Legal Counsel Kim Seter, Esq.:
Okay, to report first on the election. The ballots are all out and they should be arriving in mailboxes probably today. I want to stress that April 27th is the last day to apply for an absentee ballot.
So if anyone hasn't received that or needs an absentee ballot, April 27th is the deadline. And then the election will be May 4th. So all ballots have to be received in one of the drop boxes or received in the mail or hand delivered to my office by 7:00 pm May 4th. So don't forget to vote. The second item is the Parker Water and Sanitation District Inclusion and Health. Which is, of course, the subject of the election.
We had our first meeting today anticipating a successful election. And began preparations for all the work that's going to have to take place after the election. Which will take almost a year to complete. Most likely the third item that the chairman just mentioned. That is on the report that hopefully we can clean up tonight, is an agreement between Castle Pines North. And CP Metro concerning water rights usage.
You have shared water rights with CP metro. They are unable to use those rights right now. But we might be able to use them to put some water into storage, into Chatfield. All this agreement does is provide for this year. The opportunity for Castle Pines North to utilize the 50% share from Castle Pines Metro to try to fill up Chatfield.
It may be for not because there may not be enough water for anybody to use it. But if there is, this agreement allows us to use it. Mr. Chairman, do you want to consider that agreement now, or should we wait?
David:
I don't know. Given the length of time that we've had with the subject. And the fact that there's not been any changes to this evening or through this evening. We could probably do all three.
Let me just quickly ask for clarification. However, on that agreement with Castle Pines Village, you indicated. There's a real possibility given the dedicated drought conditions that we are surrounded by.
That there may not be any water, but once we're able to wield that water from Chatfield and that water. Meaning the water that is a part of the 2004 water rights that we share with the village. Once we're able to wheel some of their water through our system and deliver it to them. That's the catalyst really. That triggers our conditional rights to absolute.
Correct?
Kim:
Correct.
David:
Okay. So that's a, that's a big feat in and of itself, on top of the fact that it saves a tremendous amount of work and expenses. And it's, it's an accomplishment worth reaching for. So I just want to make sure with that clarification. We'll all start on our rain dances here after. And keep it up until we have enough water to wheel.
Why don't you go ahead with the next couple items. And we'll address them all at one time?
Kim:
Okay. The second item that you could address tonight is the Happy Canyon Sewer Outfall Agreement. The discussion starts at the bottom of the first page of the report. That agreement has also been in negotiation for a very long time.
Its purpose is to grant Town Center an irrevocable license to access 300,000 gallons per day of line capacity in the Happy Canyon outfall. Town center would complete construction to resolve the bottleneck and flows along Santa Fe near the Plum Creek water and wastewater Authority plant. As partial payment for this right. They would also install meters to measure the flows from town center. And then after they begin using the line. Town center will pay a tap fee of $2,200 for every single family equivalent that taps in.
They will also pay a system development or replacement fee of $78,533 annually. And a monthly usage charge of $2.75 per thousand gallons. There's one item that is still a little bit up in the air. And that has to do with placing the cap on the amount of flow per day. That can come into the Happy Canyon line.
However, I don't think that should stall your approval or consideration tonight. The cap is pretty much determined. We just have to figure out how to word it so that ten years from now. Someone can look at it and know what the heck we were talking about. And with that, that agreement is ready for approval. And then, Mr. Chairman, what was the third item that you wanted to go ahead and consider?
Chris
The pond.
David:
Pond A6.
Kim:
Okay, yeah. The Pond A6 agreement has also been in the works for a long time. It goes along with the outfall agreement. And the pond A6 agreement simply provides a means for determining the costs of maintenance for that pond. Which I believe waters a golf course. And is also used by the district for storage.
David:
Thank you. Council. I’m, I don't know whether to take the fact that these last two items have been on our to-do list and underway for a long time. As a compliment or.how to take that. But I got to tell you, I'm as anxious as anyone else to move forward with a motion tonight.
And it's with that that I would like to ask my colleagues to allow me to make a motion to consider the Castle Pines North and Castle Pines Metro memorandum of understanding for the use of water rights. as presented by council. Right along with Pond A6. A country club at Castle Pines Matter as presented by council.
And finally, the Happy Canyon Sewer Outfall Agreement. This, albeit as reported, is we're not at the, at the time. Or we're not at a point where we have all the signatures. But we do have everyone lined up to sign, for all intents and purposes. And this is a global opportunity to clean up a number of things that are extraterritorial in nature. But without abusing that term, off site and, and some of the cooperative arrangements. Third party agreements that we have with folks that we work with. Outside of the city Moving wastewater, from our entire city.
Both on the East side and the West side, down to Plum Creek. As well as securing the relationship that we have with the golf course. And their operator. Troon and the acknowledgment from Parker, of course. By virtue of the inclusion agreement that they will honor all of those. So each one of those issues were something that we, as you recall, inherited.
And I'm happy, after three long years that we're, we're about there. So again, I'd like to make a motion that those three items, as presented by council. Move forward with your approval tonight. Is there a second?
Chris:
Second it.
David:
I have a motion for approval. A second, is there any other conversation, comments, questions, concerns at this moment?
Robert:
Just a second. In noting the cap wording on the Happy Canyon Sewer Outfall Agreement.
Describer:
Robert says off mic to David “cap, that he.”
David:
Okay.
Robert:
Counsel said.
David:
Very good. So noted and appreciate that clarification. Or pointing out for clarification, Director Merritt. That being said, I am going to call for the vote.
Board Voting All Speak:
Please indicate your affirmative disposition with a yea. Negative with a nay when called upon. Director Lewis. Yea. Director Merritt. Yea.
Director Crew. Yea. Director McEntire is a yea. Motion carries unanimously.
David:
Counsel, you still have the floor.
Kim:
Nothing further, Mr. Chairman. Unless there's questions.
David:
Looks like to me we're going to be able to potentially. Not to get ahead of myself or ahead of our manager, knock off the possibly the Lagae Ranch improvements here before too terribly long. I don't recall specifically if that was being complicated or held back, or stalled. However you want to characterize it by the pump matter. But was happy to hear that the pump matter is cleared up and otherwise.
There's a couple. No update I'm guessing no update on the foundation council?
Kim:
Sir. Also, just an update on the, on the HOA entries. We have all the agreements drafted. We got all the information from Craig. Those have been incorporated in the agreements. The problem we're having is figuring out which HOA’s go with which entry ways.
And that's proven to be much more difficult than you can imagine. But we're getting there.
David:
Yeah, we've, we've, we've had similar puzzles that we've had to solve and on. And on a variety of matters. So I do relate to that. And wish you luck.
Thank you again, Council.
Kim:
Thank you.
Describer:
The sound is cut out, and David is talking on mute.
David:
I'm going to close item nine. And move to item ten. That's our district manager's report. Mr. Worley, you have the floor, sir.
Jim:
Thank you, Mr. President. I want to highlight what we briefly talked about a little while ago. And we now have scheduled this coming Thursday, weather permitting. I think it's going to be pretty decent. The 22nd for, it’s starting at 9:00 o’clock.
Same type of cleanup that we, that we had back in the fall. Tried to have a month or so ago. So, hopefully you can join us. If there's any questions or anything, reach out to me. The website I think has some good information on it. So hopefully we'll see a fair amount of you there. It was interesting.
Craig mentioned earlier that, that he and I met with the resident earlier today, related to some cleanup that needed to be done behind their house. And the gentleman told us. He says, you know, I went ahead and cleaned up a bunch of other stuff that keeps flying back here. So we told him that, join us on Thursday.
You get to clean up a little bit more. So hopefully there'll be others that could, that could join us on that. As far as my report is concerned. I want to focus on the first item I have, and that's the Forest Park sewer odor. As you recall, this was an issue that we've had for a long time. And, and some of the things we've done. We went through and, and put in different types of manholes through that whole area. Which are sealed better, for lack of a better term.
We also put in three vents, which in locations they will vent some of that odor. But the most encouraging. And, and I got news of it today. I had mentioned to you last month that we're kind of doing a test project. And that test project. In essence is to inject, constantly inject at our lift station number three. Which is what feeds the Forest Park area and ozone generator stuff.
That's about as smart as I can get on it. But we started that on the 14th. I think it was on the 14th of April. We started that. But Nathan came into my office today and he said, Jim. We have already measured the, the amount of odor causing gases that are in this sewer. That is already 70% less than what we've had historically.
And I said, that doesn't mean a lot to me, Nathan, but what's the odor like? He says, you can't smell it. There isn't an odor coming out at this point. We think this is, is going to be a very good project. As a matter of fact, as I stated in my report. We had three more manholes that we needed to do. Which are on the golf course.
And we would have to tear up some of the golf course to do that. But in my conversation with Nathan today. Barring any complications. We won't have to tear up the golf course. We'll be able to put regular manholes on those three areas up there. And the odor issue hopefully, knock on whatever this table is taken care of.
So that, that was a positive when it comes to something other than just venting the gases that build up in that line. And so very encouraging. When Nathan came in and told me Jim, this is doing very well so far. So I'll keep you posted on that. We haven't had any calls whatsoever from Forest Park in probably a month and a half. Two months on any odor issue.
So that’s a good sign. And so we'll keep pushing that. So I just want to let you know that. Another item, as we all know we're on. We're working with the city on replacing our water line right out here at Castle Pines Parkway, along with their project. Their Castle Pines project, parkway project. I think the bids are supposed to come in on the 14th.
I haven't heard anything on them yet, but I'll keep you posted and let you know how those go. But hopefully we'll be able to start messing up, up this road. It’s going to be a mess for a while, while we take care of that. But we're moving forward on that. I think that's all. Unless there's something else that you would like for me to visit or highlight on. That's some of the highlights.
Describer:
David is briefly speaking off mic, unable to make out what he is saying.
Jim:
Oh yeah. Risk and resilience.
Describer:
David is briefly speaking off mic, unable to make out what he is saying.
Jim:
Yes.
David:
We're going to make the first deadline. And are we going to shoulder the responsibility of the second one or are we going. Given the affirmative vote on May 4th. Will we be piggybacking with Parker on the one due in December? If you have that.
Jim:
Yes, we will do that. The first part, which is the R&R, the risk and resiliency is due June 30th. I believe, is the date.
We will meet that. No problem whatsoever. Kennedy Jenks is doing that work for us. There's going to be some meeting set up in the next couple of weeks with some of our staff for that report. But that'll be done without any problem. Depending on how May 4th goes. If it's a positive, then Parker will work with Parker on.
We have to do a. I forgot what it's called a plan. Yeah, an emergency response plan that follows the, the risk and resiliency that has to be completed by year end this year. And so assuming approval, we will work with Parker on that. Because they've had to do these for a while. If the, if the vote is not a positive then we'll work on it. And take care of it ourselves.
But we'll meet both deadlines. Okay.
David:
Very good. I don't have any other questions. Seeing or hearing none. Jim, thank you again for the report. Job well done. I will assert in, in closing that nobody has any comments or questions. And Jim, nothing special from the Kennedy Jenks folks as well. Okay, very good. I know you were going to give us just a taste of that.
Ejection pump, project and the fact that we did complete that. What are there any, following up steps with anyone that we need to know about? Or, or when are they in a position to file for an acceptance and a one year warranty? Can you give us a little, give us a little color?
Jim:
Let me separate the two issues.
What you just. What I heard you talk about was the Forest Park issue. That's a different issue. The issue, what I think you're referring to is the Lagae lift station. The Lagae lift station, just in a nutshell. Was built by the developer for us under our standards. It was turned over to us, still owned. We hadn't accepted it.
Kim can address that, but we hadn't accepted it because the pumps that were in there were making a significant amount of noise. And vibrations when it first happened. And so a few months ago. I lose track of the time on it. But we had a meeting with, with Tom Clark and the group down in that area. And together we figured out that plans were approved.
That included a certain pipe size. Which is the fourth main pipe that leaves the lift station. And forces it over hill and down to PCWRA. There was a pipe size that was identified in the plans. The pumps have to be built or put together to handle that pipe size. If that makes sense to you. Somewhere before the pipe was actually installed, someone made a decision to shrink that pipe.
So that made the pumps not be the appropriate pumps to push the, the water over into the forth main. We realized that due to. Actually Lisa Swine from Kennedy Jenks before we had a big meeting with them. Wondering what's going on. She looked at the plans and said something changed. It was not anything the district did. We had already approved the plans based on the way they represented to us.
So we had a meeting with the developer down there. And the bottom line was we haven't accepted this lift station. You're still responsible for it. You need to replace both of those pumps with the appropriate pumps. We got approval to do that. Basically through them. The pumps were ordered. They had been sitting out there for a couple of months until some other piping came in recently.
As of last week, all of those pumps were installed. It's working very well at this point. We had to, we had to bypass. We had to do a pumping bypass by that station because of the old pumps were just, they were getting beat up and they weren't doing as well. So the good news is we have the correct pumps in there now, at the expense of the developer.
It was not the district that paid that. They didn't exactly give us what we had told we were supposed to get. And so that's good news too. With that Lagae lift station. So does that help you?
David:
Yeah, yeah, and, and that helps connect the dots that I was inquiring about earlier. On the matter of acceptance of the Lagae Ranch improvements.
What I was wanting to do is to make sure that we were on the same page. And it sounds like we are. Also to give council the heads up that once that final acceptance is granted. The one-year warranty period starts. I know that we gave, the district gave kudos to Darwin Horan, who jumped in there willingly. And expedited what was clearly their responsibility.
And, and we appreciated that, and appreciated that of him. So I’m asserting Jim that the other items that were on that punch list have been completed. And so we're looking at or anticipating an application for acceptance just any time, true?
Jim:
I believe so. Yes, sir.
David:
Okay, good. Thank you for that update. And the color on that subject.
Appreciate it. The closed director or district manager's report, item ten. Open up item 11. director's matters. This, at this time. As I mentioned early on the focus is the consult or consultant the inclusion. And my colleagues and I and staff have been fully engaged in this process since taking office.
Almost three years ago. And while we have characterized a number of times over the last couple months. To take three, three years of work that are mountainous. To characterize it fairly and, and that have gone through no less than three different filters is an understatement. It is a mountainous job. And a mountain of work is taking place.
And, and a mountain of data we have available to us. And have tried to share with the residents. And share with everyone that has participated the, the result of that effort. There is a draft resolution. Or a resolution that has been circulated in the community. That highlights and, and identifies the key elements included in this inclusion proposal.
Again well it, I think it's only six pages. It could, okay five. Could have easily been 65. And, but that, that's some of the details that we didn't anticipate having come out is, results that would support our recommendation, but they are and. So it is, it's with that resolution and the ballots. As council indicated, that were mailed out on Friday.
The vote will begin to take place, amongst our, our neighbors and with ourselves. I know what my vote is going to look like. I have begun to share with folks that I no longer believe that this is a good idea. I know it's a good idea. And I stand behind that statement. With facts and figures to prove at every level.
That this is a recommendation that I stand behind. And I just want to take the opportunity to thank my colleagues and staff for, and all of our consultants. The Pinnacle Consulting Group, councilman or council man, Seter. And his law firm. The engineers that we've had engaged at three different levels. Additional attorneys with water rights, et cetera.
Outstanding job. I could not have surrounded myself. Given the opportunity with anybody any better. So what a pleasure it has been. And I'm, I know this to be the right option to date for our residents. Comments from my other directors?
Denise:
I just wanted to add to our part of our inclusion, there's been a little bit of chatter from maybe the small percentage. 1 to 2% that are worried that their water bills may go up.
And so I wanted to add something to those of you that may use a little more water than others. And to, I have a motion and I'd like to read through it. So that I get it verbatim and correct. So if I may. Yes. Out of respect for the many constituents who thoughtfully reviewed the working draft. Resolution in support of the proposed inclusion in the form of two additional whereas statements. I move the following amendment.
Whereas each Castle Pines North Metro district homeowner that irrigates a disproportionately large lot or uses more than 20,000 gallons of water per month. May reduce the volume of water they use. And lower their monthly water bills during the spring, summer and fall. And maintain a beautifully landscaped yard. First by replacing their water-loving Kentucky Bluegrass lawn with xeric dog turf grass.
Featured in Craig's Corner on Castle Pines North Metro District's website at CPNMD.org. And also featured on page four. Of the April 2021 edition of the Castle Pines Connection. And second, by ensuring the garden areas,and natural areas of your lot feature exclusively, xeric plants, shrubs and or trees. And third, by transitioning their lawn. And garden to exclusively xeric vegetation. And taking advantage of Castle Pines North Metro District's 2021 Water Conservation Rebates program. Again at CPNMD.org.
And fourth, by signing up to participate in Castle Pines North Metro District's free irrigation testing and slow the flow program. And thereby receive professional assessment of their irrigation systems efficiency. And Whereas, each HOA that irrigates one or more common areas may do the same.
David:
Well said.
David:
Thank you. Director Crew. I am with you in that regard. And know that the resolute action will be vastly improved by its incorporation. Thank you so much. Anyone else?
Chris:
I do have something to add. I do want to reiterate what you said. I do want to say thank you to everyone that has actually been participating in our feedback on the resolution.
That was shared. And we've gotten lots of feedback. And we appreciate each and every one of those. So I do want to take the opportunity to, to essentially recognize some of those. And specifically one. So, you know, I think our four page resolution sufficiently conveys my position and on the line rationale for inclusion. The feedback we've received on the draft has been overwhelmingly positive in that context.
And in the interest of avoid, I'm sorry. Of avoiding a resolution that might otherwise be ten pages long. I will refrain from offering additional amendments. However, I do want to acknowledge and thank one constituent in particular. Mr. Jay Gardner, for his meticulous review of the work in draft resolution. And for his unsolicited email to all of us in which he shared some valuable insight in part.
Here's what Jay Gardner email says. Passing up this option and I quote. Specifically, passing up this option to secure a renewable water solution now may result in financial negatives far beyond simply costing more to secure renewable water in the future. Failure of this ballot initiative could pave the way for lower property values. I'm going to repeat that. Failure of this value ballot initiative could pave the way for lower property values.
Who would want to buy a home in Castle Plains West of I-25 knowing we have no renewable water solution? Mr. Gardner, I'd like to thank you for your observation. I believe you are correct, given intense competition for renewable water here in the Douglas County and throughout our region. And given its lack of availability. And projected cost escalation in future years. Before buying a house anywhere on Colorado's Front Range.
I like you. I would need to understand the availability of renewable water to the community in which I am buying. So I do want to say thanks for sending us all the information. And we appreciate you. And we appreciate every one of you out there that has participated in this process. And I do want to say like David said, I'm absolutely sure that is, this is the best thing for us.
And please vote, vote quickly. Get your ballots in. And I have already voted and I'd like you to know I voted to include. So follow my lead. Thank you.
David:
Thank you, thank you Chris. I appreciate those comments. I just want to take the opportunity. Because it reminded me of, of just a couple of the readings that I've run into probably. Since Thursday evening of last week. Maybe even Friday. I'm sure everyone has seen the article that came out in the Denver Post. And, and this was the article that was entitled Federal Government. Now weighing in on the drought. And, and the fact that all of the water service providers and, and those who work in the industry have already declared. What they are going to have and.
By virtue of the science that they work with, and work on to deliver that water to us have all declared that the Colorado River corridor to mention one. Along with the Platte River basin. Which we live in, are in. In tough shape, to put it lightly. And while there's nothing a whole lot of rain can't help to solve. And mitigate, the fact is we haven't gotten it. And we need it.
And, and so the issue of not just primary water and the replenishing of the aquifers is going to continue to be in the forefront of more and more of the news. But also the renewable water effort that we are ahead of the game on. And, and without any additional property taxes. And, or even the article that, that is entitled The Real Scoop on the whole water debacle.
And this came out of Westminster, a neighbor of ours here just to the Northwest. And they are obviously at odds. Between their boards and some of the constituents and staff. And, and all three of them together. And amongst them. They're now in such dire straits. Knowing that they are behind the power curve. And knowing that the cost associated with acquiring that security, that appreciable value, that equity that we're, have an opportunity to enjoy.
They're calling for hiring an independent utility engineer firm to get the true assessment of their actual situation. Both internally as it relates to their assets, but. Their liabilities as well as their aspirations for renewable water. And they, they've gone as far as calling out the mistake. That was bad. When they moved from their original plan.
And why weren't the unpredictable fiscal maneuvers used sooner and. Recommendations of always asking the why questions? It is a hot piece of business up in Westminster. And it just continues to come to our attention more often. These days that others are following in that same lane to secure renewable water. And are finding it more and more difficult. And more challenging. Not only to educate the folks that may not be fully familiar with it, but what it's going to take and, and the numbers are significant.
So, anyone else?
Robert:
Yeah. I'd like to add a little bit. And first of all, thank Director Lewis for your overseas military service. That is awesome. We appreciate it. And also for casting your ballot from the Middle East additionally. But, and a couple notes on, you were sharing Mr. Gardner’s email. In which we all received. He went on and in that email that caught me that he not only recommended the resolution. But also conveyed a very important part in his email.
If the voters approve the proposed inclusion. Then on behalf of the constituents the board will make that $34.8 million. Investment and payment to PWSD directly from the cash reserves. This is with $0, in additional tax burden on the constituents. Like I like to say that again with $0. In other words, it means our $34.8 million payment to PWSD is not an additional tax. Which we have been proposed two separate times over the past years.
So pretty excited about that. Our constituents have been paying that $15 renewable water investment fee every month. That $15 fee combined with other cash reserves will enable us on behalf of the constituents. Again, to make that $34.8 million payment and pay for this. So Mr. Gardner, if you're watching tonight I would like to thank you personally. And for all the time and consideration it took and your comments. Because that struck a chord as well as we're going to be able to do this efficiently.
So, and also like to thank Parker as well. Parker water for all their work and hard work. For the last that they've been on this as well, so. But until all of you guys appreciate it. Thanks again.
David:
So much more that could be said.
When we were on the campaign trail. Issues of, of quality of life were, were consistent. Conversations were plentiful. And this opportunity lends itself to improve that quality life. Whether you live here, the confidence that you have in having water supply unparalleled. And unmatched by so, so many.
Provides little uptick in, in that quality of life. I would say last time. Last month I went through a number of mathematical equations associated with becoming an owner of Rueter-Hess Reservoir. As opposed to just a renter of space. And having millions of dollars on the line.
Of investments that we can't tap for water or we can't use for storage. And this inclusion lends itself to connecting all of those dots without exception. All of the dots. If, if that doesn't equate to appreciable value when that unfortunate time comes or the planned time comes to selling your house. The marketability associated with what you have is with, when you live in Castle Pines City Council Pines North that others don't have. Enjoy it.
Giving an affirmative life. The equity that it comes your way is in the tens of thousands of dollars. Not just in compared to the $30 to $60,000 per head that we were looking down the barrel on the previous initiatives that Robert, you spoke of, but the equitable difference. The cash value difference in tens of thousands of dollars. Again, becoming an owner with those within the park or inclusionary. Or excuse me, service area on equal playing field equal ground with them. All a part of the inclusion.
And then the fact that our debt that we have now is going to be completely settled as a part of the inclusion. Sure we pick up debt with finishing the Rueter-Hess project. But the sunset on that debt is half the time that debt on our books have. And so that plays into. Not only an opportunity to retire our debt as, as a city.
More quickly than we thought, but it gives us more versatility. And on the backs of 50,000 at build out versus 3500. Within the legacy village of Castle Pines North. What a, what an example. The epitome of an awesome example of efficiencies and economies at play and at work. So without belaboring that. Because I just might get a little giddy on you.
Again, I want to remind everybody we have a meeting following this one next month, May 17th. I want to remind everybody, as council pointed out, that the ballots are due no later than. And they have to be received, physically received in the, in the ballot boxes at either location by 7 p.m. on Tuesday, May 17th.
That being said I would like for this board to consider the refining of the motion made by or the refinement made by director Crew acknowledging all of those comments by Director Lewis. And Director Merritt from one of our constituents and themselves, appreciate that. And this evening considering the adoption of resolution that we have before us with the, with the refinement offered by director Crew. Number 2021-04-19-01.
Is there a second?
Robert:
I'd like to second that motion.
David:
Have a motion on the floor to approve resolution 2021-04-19-01. Specifically relating to the inclusion of our water and wastewater services with those of Parker Water and Sanitation District. Any further, and we have a second by Director Crew. Any further conversation? Second.
Describer:
Denise is briefly saying something that we can’t fully hear to David off mic and pointing behind her.
Kim:
Mr. Chairman,
Denise:
Robert, second it.
Kim:
One comment I think during your explanation. You may have accidentally said May 17th for the election. 7 p.m. May 4th.
Just so no one is confused.
David:
Got it. Let me, let me restate that just before recounting the motion. And the second by Director Merritt.
All ballots are due physically due no later than 7 p.m. on Tuesday, May 4th. Okay. That being said, I'm going to call for the vote. When called upon, please indicate the affirmative or. Your.
Board Voting All Speak:
Wishing to not approve. Director Lewis. Aye. Director Crew. Aye. Director. Merritt. Three years of aye. And Director McEntire is a definite aye. Motion carries unanimously.
David:
Thank you so much, directors again for everything. I'm going to, with that close item 11. Director's matters hearing no other matters, correct?
Denise:
Just one quick comment.
David:
Go ahead.
Denise:
To drop off your ballot.
The location is behind the library.
David:
No, no.
Denise:
No. No. That's, that's what I wanted to clarify.
Jim:
Yeah, I was going to make that.
Denise:
Thank you.
Jim:
Yeah. If you don’t mind.
Denise:
No go ahead. Thank you.
Jim:
I don't want to step on your toes. Yeah. That's important to say because historically people have been able to drop it off behind the library. I put a sign on there the other day. Said this is not a ballot box.
So there are only two physical locations that the ballots can be dropped off at. One is right here at our office. 7404 Yorkshire from 8:00 to 4:30, Monday through Friday. On Election Day. Which is May 4th, 7 a.m. to 7 p.m. You can drop them off here. You can drop them off at Setter & Vander Wall. Which is where Kim's office is.
And I yeah, it's in Greenwood Village. I can get that. I don't have that off the top of my head. But that's, those are the only two physical locations that you can drop off ballots. So if anybody has any concerns, questions or, or what's going on, you know. I'm not sure where to do it. Reach out to my office please. Because there's only two locations that you can.
You can mail them, assuming you get them, you know. Signed, stamped and mailed off soon enough. But they still physically have to be either in this office by 7:00 May 4 p.m. Or down at Kim's office by 7:00 May 4th. So that's the only two locations.
Denise:
One quick question. Do we offer any type of service or are we allowed to, to help get ballots here?
Should someone not be able to deliver? Or is that.
Jim:
I would have to ask Kim. I'll have to ask Kim to answer that question, I don't know.
Kim:
Yes, there's a, there's a min, a maximum number you can collect. But you're not going to exceed that. So if you need to do that, that's fine. Okay.
David:
Thank, thank you Jim and, and just to wrap up on that clarification. Setter & Vander Walls offices are located at 7400 East Orchard Road, Suite 3300.
That's in Greenwood Village. Again 7400 East Orchard Road, Suite 3300. Can't miss it. Beautiful building, beautiful offices. Thanks for helping out, Mr. Setter.
Robert:
I want to make a comment.
David:
Go ahead Robert.
Robert:
Just want to reiterate how important this is for our community. And how hard everybody's worked to find the best resolution on this. If there's anyone out there. And this is the first they've heard of it. Or if they've read through everything and still have even a single question. We would like to hear from you. And we can answer it.
We have all the data points. We have all the engineers. We have all the documents to show you that how important this is for our community. And to vote yes. And have this inclusion happen for our liability. And for, as David mentioned, the households being sold. So if you have any, if I can implore you just to call. And we can ease your mind, but, if you have any questions.
So thank you for your vote. And we're hoping you vote yes. Thank you.
David:
Very good we’ll close. Director's matters. And open up for the final public comment period. Item 12.
Director, do we have anyone in addition, over the course of the meeting signed up. That has anything they would like to join us on, nothing. No additional sign ups. Very good. Then it is with that. And I'm going to close the final, the final public comment period.
And look for a motion on item 13. I think they call that adjourn.
Denise:
I'll make a motion to adjourn our meeting.
David
Got a motion to adjourn. Is there a second?
Chris:
Second it.
Board Voting All Speak:
All those in favor say aye. Aye. Aye. Aye. Any opposed? Hearing none. Motion carries unanimously.
David:
Thank you very much one and all. Have a good evening. And please vote. Good night.
Chris:
Thank you all. Bye.