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Town of Estes Park Press Releases

The Town is also grateful to those who assisted but are not listed above.  For more information, please contact the Town of Estes Park Public Information Office at 970-577-3701. To receive Town news in your e-mail inbox, please e-mail spetrie@estes.org. 

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Draft wind turbine regulations up for discussion November 12

Planning Commission holds special meeting with public hearing

November 3, 2009

The Estes Valley Planning Commission will hold a special meeting on November 12 at 1:30 p.m. in the Town Board Room of Town Hall, located at 170 MacGregor Avenue. The public is invited to attend and comment as Commissioners consider draft regulations on small-scale residential wind turbines based on input received in a recent public survey.

The draft regulations will serve as a framework for discussion. Proposed regulations include a limit of one wind turbine installation per lot with a maximum height of 50 feet and a property line setback of at least three times the unit height. Also proposed is that inoperative units should be removed by the owner within 6 months of becoming inoperative.

Public input has been the driving force for the issue of wind turbines in Estes Park. Town staff recently conducted a voluntary-response survey related to wind turbines that received 804 responses. Results indicate that the majority (65.1%) do not want wind turbines to be banned by the Estes Valley Development Code. Of that majority, 53.7% want wind turbines to be regulated. 32.4% of respondents want to see wind turbines banned outright.

The Planning Commission will continue wind turbine discussions at its regular meeting on November 17 at 6:00 p.m. in the Town Board Room. Commissioners have the option to recommend to Town Trustees a ban on wind turbines, the adoption of regulations or to have no regulations at all.

The temporary moratorium on wind turbine installations passed by the Town Board will continue as the issues are reviewed. The moratorium prohibits the issuance of building permits for wind turbines within Town limits until December 9, 2009 unless amended or terminated by the Town Board. It does not affect the construction of turbines for which a permit has already been issued.

Renewable Energy Survey results are available for viewing at www.estes.org. Visitors to the site can click on the Renewable Energy Survey link to view the results. For more information, call the Town of Estes Park Public Information Office at 970-577-3701. To receive Town news by e-mail, please e-mail spetrie@estes.org.

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Elkhorn Avenue closes for annual Halloween festivities

October 27, 2009

On Saturday, October 31, Elkhorn Avenue will close from 5:00 P.M. to approximately 9:00 P.M. for the annual Halloween trick-or-treating festivities.  Elkhorn will be closed from Spruce Drive to Riverside Drive and side street traffic will be rerouted accordingly. 

The sidewalk affected by the October 19 fire in the area of Park Theater Mall is covered and ADA accessible, according to Town of Estes Park building officials. The walkway will also be lighted to allow safe pedestrian use during nighttime hours.

The Estes Park Police Department asks drivers to plan ahead for the Halloween road closure and to be aware of abundant pedestrian traffic.  Please call the Estes Park Police Department at 970-586-4000 for more information. For emergencies, always dial 9-1-1. To receive Town news in your e-mail inbox, please e-mail spetrie@estes.org.  

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Join Mayor Pinkham on November 4 for coffee

October 27, 2009

Mayor Bill Pinkham will hold the next community Coffee-Chat on Wednesday, November 4 at 8:00 a.m. at the Estes Park Senior Center, 220 Fourth Street.  Free coffee and pastries will be provided. Coffee-Chats are good opportunities for community members to discuss local projects, issues, concerns, ideas and opinions with Town officials in an informal atmosphere. Coffee-Chats with the Mayor will be held the first Wednesday of each month at 8:00 a.m. at the Senior Center. However, the December meeting will be cancelled due to a scheduling conflict.

For more information on the Mayor’s Coffee-Chats, please call the Town of Estes Park Public Information Office at 970-577-3701.  To receive Town news in your e-mail inbox, please e-mail spetrie@estes.org.

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Restorative Justice repairs the harm

October 27, 2009

Restorative Justice practitioners believe that crime is a violation of people and relationships and creates an obligation in the offender to make things right. However, the present justice system ignores this principle in favor of punishment for the offender without input from the victim or community.  Therefore, those most impacted by a crime have almost no input into the offender’s punishment.

The Estes Valley Restorative Justice Partnership is a non-profit organization of 25 volunteer facilitators who conduct an “alternative to court” process built upon Restorative Justice principles. Restorative Justice provides victims, offenders and members of the community an opportunity to participate in a justice system that seeks to repair harm and hold offenders accountable for their actions.  Those that have a stake in the harm participate in the process to undo that harm. Volunteer facilitators conduct Community Group Conferences that identify the harms to victim and community and ways to repair them.

You can be a partner in this process by joining the Estes Valley Restorative Justice team.  Volunteer facilitator training is November 7 and 8 from 8:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m. each day, in Room 202 of the Municipal Building, located at 170 MacGregor Avenue.  To register, contact Case Manager Michael Crabbs at 970-577-3829. Training is free with a one year commitment to the program. Trainees will learn skills in group leadership, active listening, communication, discernment, reframing and mediation.  Upon completion, participants will be exposed to Restorative Justice principles and will start a mentoring process to facilitate Community Group Conferences.   

To receive Town news in your e-mail inbox, please e-mail spetrie@estes.org.

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2009 collector Christmas ornament now available

October 27, 2009

Since 1986, the Town employees’ Helping Hands Committee creates a commemorative annual Christmas ornament available for sale to the public, with all proceeds donated to local families in need throughout the year. The 2009 design commemorates the Wilderness Designation of Rocky Mountain National Park and includes a photo of Longs Peak taken by local photographer Walt Hester.

The 2009 ornaments cost $10 each and are available at the following locations:  Estes Park Town Hall at 170 MacGregor Avenue; Estes Park Museum at 200 4th Street; Estes Park Senior Center at 220 4th Street, Estes Park Visitor's Center at 500 Big Thompson Avenue; and Peak Hallmark Shop in Upper Stanley Village.  A limited number of previous year’s ornaments at $8.50 are also available at Town Hall or by calling 970-577-3588.

Ornaments may also be ordered by mail. Checks only, please; shipping charges will apply.  Send your request to:  Town of Estes Park Helping Hands Committee, P.O. Box 1200 in Estes Park, CO 80517.

Ornament costs including shipping and handling charges:

1 ornament: $10 + 3.00 (s&h) = $13.00

2 ornaments: $20 + $3.50 (s&h) = $23.50

3 ornaments: $30 + $4.5 (s&h) = $34.50

4 ornaments: $40 + $6.00. (s&h) = $46.00

For more information, please contact Tracy Feagans at 970-577-3588 or online at http://www.estesnet.com/LightPower/ChristmasOrnamentsCurrentYear.htm. To receive Town news in your e-mail inbox, please e-mail spetrie@estes.org.  

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Joint investigation rules Estes Park mall fire accidental

October 24, 2009

The joint fire investigative team consisting of members from the Estes Park Police Department (EPPD), Estes Park Fire Department (EPFD), National Response Team (NRT) from the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives (ATF), ATF Denver Field Division, and the Colorado Bureau of Investigation (CBI) have completed their on-scene origin and cause investigation into the October 19 blaze at the Park Theatre Mall.  The fire destroyed approximately 24,000 sq. ft. of the circa 1914, Park Theater Mall building located on 116 E. Elkhorn Avenue, in the historic downtown area of Estes Park, Colorado.

Special Agent in Charge Richard E. Chase of ATF Denver Field Division, Mayor Bill Pinkham of Town of Estes Park, Town Administrator Jacquie Halburnt, Chief Wes Kufeld of the EPPD, and Chief Scott Dorman of the EPFD, jointly announced today that the this fire which resulted in extensive damage to Park Theatre Mall has been determined to be accidental in nature.

Through a process of elimination of possible failures of electrical, natural gas, and heating systems; as well as the evaluation of fire patterns within the structure, the examination of the evidence, and interviews conducted, the team of investigators determined that the cause of this fire was accidental.  Investigators were able to conclude that a natural gas water heater located inside a small closet ignited available combustible materials resulting in the spread of the fire throughout the building.

 “Combining federal, state and local resources resulted in an expeditious determination of the fire’s origin and cause. The information and evidence developed by investigators was reviewed and analyzed to assist in determining the accidental cause of the fire” said Chase.            

The responding ATF NRT component for this particular fire investigation consists of 21 members, including veteran special agents who have post-blast and fire origin-and-cause expertise; forensic chemists; explosives enforcement officers; fire protection engineers; electrical engineers, computer forensic specialists and intelligence specialists. In addition, a cadre of investigators from the Estes Park Police Department, ATF Special Agents from the Denver Field Division, and a Colorado Bureau of Investigation (CBI) accelerant detection K-9 team worked together with the NRT to bring this investigation to a quick resolution.

In the meantime, “People are working hard to contain the site so that everything is set for our annual Halloween celebration downtown, which will be held as scheduled,” said Police Incident Commander Eric Rose. By Sunday the restoration company is expected to have the sidewalk in front of the building on Elkhorn Avenue open to pedestrian traffic. Elkhorn Avenue is Estes Park’s main street. According to Town of Estes Park building officials the sidewalk will be a covered, shingled walkway built to American Disabilities Act (ADA) specifications.  The walk also will be lighted to allow safe pedestrian use during nighttime hours.

Reconstruction efforts, including demolition and removal of construction debris, is highly regulated by state health department and Environmental Protection Agency regulations.  Chief Building Official Will Birchfield stated that no demolition permits will be issued until companies involved have received approval of their abatement plans from state and federal authorities.

More information on Estes Park can be found at www.estes.org. Information about the ATF and its programs is available at www.atf.gov.

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Fire damages the Park Theatre Mall; Historic Park Theatre was spared

October 19, 2009

A fire which has seriously damaged the historic Park Theatre Mall is now contained, reported the Estes Park Volunteer Fire Department (EPVFD) at noon today.  Estes Park Police Dispatch received the first report at 6:19 a.m.; EPVFD responded at 6:21 a.m.  Upon arrival, firefighters reported seeing fire breaking through the roof on the west side of the mall building.

The fire, located at 116 East Elkhorn Ave in downtown Estes Park, was contained to the mall itself, and did not spread to the adjoining buildings.

The Estes Park Police Department evacuated neighboring businesses on Elkhorn Avenue early that morning, and electric service was suspended to the area for safety concerns.  The power is expected to be restored by 2 p.m. today. 

Elkhorn Avenue is currently closed to traffic from the intersections of Highways 34 & 36 to Spruce Avenue to accommodate fire equipment and is expected to reopen later today.

The building, which dates back to 1914, was originally a carriage house and livery; more recently, the building was converted into stores. No fire alarms or sprinkler systems had been installed in the building, which was home to seven businesses.

Due to the construction of the building, firefighters – which included responders from Loveland Fire Rescue, Pinewood Springs Fire District, Allenspark Fire District, and Glen Haven Fire District – were forced to fight the flames from the outside of the building with ladder trucks, aerials, and snorkel apparatus. Also helping out was local firefighter Doug Kink and his restored snorkel vehicle.

Larimer County Sheriff's officials assisted the Estes Park Police Department in directing traffic and closing the surrounding streets.  Estes Park Police Auxiliary assisted as well.  Town of Estes Park Streets, Parks, Water and Light & Power Departments assisted with water quality concerns, coning, and other safety issues.

"We are very grateful for the prompt response of the Estes Park Volunteer Fire Department, which helped minimize the spread of the fire," said Mayor Bill Pinkham, "This incident demonstrates the importance of having a properly trained, dedicated, and well-equipped fire department. It was fortunate that the weather cooperated and we did not have high winds,"

"We also appreciate the cooperation and support of our neighboring agencies who pitched in during this critical time," Pinkham added.

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Auxiliary Wildlife Firefighters needed at the Estes Park Volunteer Fire Department

October 16, 2009 

The Estes Park Volunteer Fire Department is considering the creation of an Auxiliary Wildland Firefighter team.  The team would be comprised of active firefighters and seasonal auxiliary volunteers ages 21 and older.  Informational meetings for interested individuals will be held at 7 p.m. on October 29 and November 5 at the Dannels Fire Station, 901 North Saint Vrain Ave.  It is only necessary to attend one meeting.  Discussion topics will include the purpose of the program, expectations, training and the application process.

Please contact Captain Derek Rosenquist at 970-577-0900 for more information. For emergencies, always dial 9-1-1. To receive Town news in your e-mail inbox, please e-mail spetrie@estes.org.  

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Blue Santa brightens the holidays for those in need

October 15, 2009

With the Aspen leaves falling, the wind gaining speed and daylight quickly fading into evening, winter is approaching along with the holidays.  In Estes Park, that also means the time to plan for Blue Santa donations has come.  Managed by the Estes Park Police Department Auxiliary Unit, the Blue Santa program is a community-wide effort to collect non-perishable food items and hygiene products for the elderly, shut-in and disabled members of the community. 

Auxiliary members will contact those who have participated in the past to ask for assistance in collecting items and cash donations again this year. Individuals, businesses and organizations who have not participated in the past are encouraged to get involved.  This is a great opportunity to create an employee or team competition and for business owners to ask for patron donations.  Each effort will make a difference. 

For more information on supporting Blue Santa or becoming a donation site, please call Amanda Nagl, Community Services Manager at Estes Park Police Department, at 970-577-3822. Interested individuals and groups will be provided with more information, dates and supplies.  Individuals who are elderly, shut-in or disabled may also request to be the recipient of Blue Santa services by contacting Ms. Nagl.

To receive Town news in your e-mail inbox, please e-mail spetrie@estes.org.

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Calling all Carolers for Catch the Glow Parade

October 15, 2009

Snowflakes are in the air and it won’t be long until the lights and festivities of the holiday season are here – along with the Town of Estes Park’s Catch the Glow Parade.  Parade directors Bob Aiken and Michael Young are recruiting a group of five or more local singers dressed in traditional Victorian attire to sing Christmas carols downtown from 3:30 to 5 p.m.  At 5:30 the group would be featured on one of the floats during the parade.   Interested church choirs and other local choral groups are asked to call 970-586-6104 for more information.

This year’s parade will travel along Elkhorn Avenue beginning at 5:30 p.m. on Friday, November 27 -- the day after Thanksgiving.  Preparation is in full-swing and parade directors are designing another lineup of magical holiday floats. Volunteers are also invited to assist the directors and fairgrounds staff with float construction. Help is needed whether it lasts an afternoon, a day or several days.  Call 970-586-6104 for information.

To receive Town news in your e-mail inbox, please e-mail spetrie@estes.org.  

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Comment on the Bond Park design through October 23

October 13, 2009

Bond Park Master Plan consultants are displaying the current design concept on the project website www.bondparkmasterplan.com.  Visitors to the site may view the plan and send comments to the consultants through October 23. 

The current plan incorporates design elements from all three of the initial concepts presented to the public in September.  Proposed features include a covered fire pit with seating, the potential for a removable ice arena, a small performance stage, a picnic grove and an events promenade that makes use of MacGregor Avenue between Park Lane and Elkhorn Avenue during festivals.

The Town initiated the process to create a master plan for Bond Park, which needs a sustainable new design to maintain its current function as a gathering place for the public. The redesign process has included public surveys and voting, public forums, stakeholder meetings, focus group interviews with community representatives and a digital design charrette, where ideas were incorporated into a three-dimensional computerized model of Bond Park.  More information is available on the project website www.bondparkmasterplan.com.

For more information, call the Public Information Office at 970-577-3701. To receive Town news in your e-mail inbox, please e-mail spetrie@estes.org.

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Planning Commission will consider Renewable Energy Survey results on October 20

October 13, 2009 

The Estes Valley Planning Commission will make use of the Renewable Energy Survey at its regular meeting on October 20 at 6 p.m. in the Town Board Room of Town Hall, located at 170 MacGregor Avenue.  Results related to small-scale residential wind turbines will be reviewed by Town staff and the Planning Commissioners as they consider current policies and regulations.  The Planning Commission may then recommend to Town Trustees the adoption of policies or regulations addressing wind turbine location and operation.

Approximately 750 interested individuals responded to the Renewable Energy Survey, which ended October 15. The survey was part of a broad effort by the Town to involve the public in decisions related to residential wind turbine installations. Survey results also indicate the level of public support for existing and potential Town-sponsored renewable energy and efficiency programs. Public discussions on wind turbines were also held in April and August of this year. 

The temporary moratorium on wind turbine installations passed by the Town Board will continue as the issues are reviewed. The moratorium prohibits the issuance of building permits for wind turbines within Town limits until December 9, 2009 unless amended or terminated by the Town Board.  It does not affect the construction of turbines for which a permit has already been issued.  

Survey results will be posted at www.estes.org by October 17. Visitors to the site can click on the Renewable Energy Survey link on the left side of the screen to view the results.  For more information, call the Town of Estes Park Public Information Office at 970-577-3701.

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New construction underway on the Fall River Trail

October 13, 2009 

Construction of the Fall River Trail continues with phase 4B along Fall River Road. This 1,500-foot phase of the trail begins at the Castle Mountain Lodge and ends west of Blackhawk Lodges.  U.S. Highway 34/Fall River Road has been narrowed with the placement of concrete barriers along the south edge of the east-bound lane.  Traffic speed in the work zone is reduced to 25 miles per hour.  The Public Works Department asks drivers to be considerate of workers during construction, which is scheduled for completion by December 15.

The multi-use concrete trail is eight feet wide. Construction is being completed by Cornerstone Concrete (Bob Pavlish) of Estes Park. Fairbanks Excavation is subcontracting for utilities and excavation necessary to complete the trail.  Lafarge North America has donated the concrete color additive at no cost.

This project is funded in part by $140,000 contributed through the Colorado Department of Transportation (CDOT) as part of the American Recovery and Reinvestment Act along with a $150,000 from the Town’s allocation of Larimer County Open Space funds.

The Town’s plan to complete the trail system through the Fall River Corridor consists of approximately nine phases, with four phases completed since 2002.  The Fall River Trail begins at Performance Park on West Elkhorn Avenue and continues west to Fall River Road and currently ends near the Castle Mountain Lodge establishment. 

The next phases of trail construction are planned but not yet designed or funded.  When all phases are complete, the trail will conclude at Rocky Mountain National Park’s Fall River Visitor Center, with a branch serving the Town’s Historic Fall River Hydroplant museum on Fish Hatchery Road. 

For more information, call the Town of Estes Park Public Works Department at 970-577-3586. To receive Town news in your e-mail inbox, please e-mail Sandra Petrie at spetrie@estes.org. 

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What Makes Restorative Justice Restorative?

October 13, 2009

The Estes Valley Restorative Justice Partnership exists to reduce crime and disorder. By bringing together an offender, the victim and the community, justice can be restorative rather than retributive.  Author Howard Zehr provides examples of how the two concepts of justice differ: 

Estes Valley residents are invited to join the Estes Valley Restorative Justice Partnership team.  Restorative Justice is a non-profit organization composed of 25 volunteer facilitators who conduct an “alternative to court” process built upon restorative justice principles.  Volunteer facilitator training is November 7 and 8 from 8 a.m. to 5 p.m. each day, in Room 202 of the Municipal Building, located at 170 MacGregor Avenue.  Training is free with a one year commitment to Restorative Justice upon completion.  To register, contact Michael Crabbs, Case Manager, at 577-3829.

Facilitator trainees will learn skills in group leadership, active listening, communication, discernment, reframing, and mediation.  Upon completion, participants will be exposed to restorative justice principles and will start a mentoring process to facilitate Community Group Conferences.  For more information on Restorative Justice, please call 970-577-3829. To receive Town news in your e-mail inbox, please e-mail spetrie@estes.org.

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Senior Center flu shot clinic cancelled on October 14

October 5, 2009

The flu shot clinic scheduled for October 14 at the Estes Park Senior Center is cancelled due to unexpected delays in seasonal flu vaccine delivery.  By early November, seasonal flu vaccines are expected to be plentiful again.  For more information, individuals should contact a physician or the Larimer County Department of Health and the Environment at 970-577-2050.

With increasing cases of H1N1 flu, or “swine” flu, public health agencies have prioritized the production and distribution of the H1N1 flu vaccination over that of seasonal flu as there is currently no circulation of the seasonal flu.  The first cases of seasonal flu are typically seen in November, with illnesses peaking in January and February.

Approximately 95 doses of seasonal flu vaccine were available at a clinic held October 7 at the Senior Center. The clinic was co-sponsored by the Senior Center and the Estes Park Medical Center (EPMC); Family Medical Center nurses administered vaccinations.

The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) recommend getting a seasonal flu vaccine as soon it becomes available. This is the first and most important step in protecting against seasonal flu.  Annual seasonal flu vaccination is particularly important for people with a high risk of serious flu complications including young children, pregnant women, individuals with chronic health conditions such as asthma, diabetes, heart or lung disease and older adults. 

The seasonal flu vaccine does not protect against H1N1 flu.  A separate H1N1 vaccine is likely to be available during October through the Larimer County Department of Health and the Environment.  The CDC recommends the H1N1 vaccine, in addition to a seasonal flu shot, for individuals who are at the greatest risk for H1N1 infection or serious complications.  These groups include children, young adults ages 19 to 24, pregnant women and adults ages 25 to 64 with chronic health conditions. Healthcare workers and individuals who are in close contact with infants less than six months of age should also get vaccinated for H1N1 flu.  For more information on both seasonal flu and H1N1 flu, please visit www.flu.gov.

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Take the renewable energy survey by October 15

October 5, 2009

The Town of Estes Park is asking the public to weigh in on small-scale residential wind turbines and other renewable energy efforts through an online survey available at www.estes.org.  Visitors will find the survey by clicking on the Renewable Energy Survey link on the left side of the homepage. The survey can be completed in 5 to 10 minutes. Responses are anonymous and will be accepted through October 15.  Individuals without internet access may request a printed survey at the Administration Office, Room 150, of Town Hall, located at 170 MacGregor Avenue.

The information collected in the survey will guide Town staff and officials in making related decisions for the community. Survey results will indicate the level of public support for existing and potential Town-sponsored renewable energy and efficiency programs and gather opinions on how the Estes Valley Development Code should address residential wind turbine installations.

The survey is part of a broad effort to involve the public in decisions related to residential wind turbine policies. Public discussions were also held in April and August of this year.

The temporary moratorium on wind turbine installations passed by the Town Board will continue as Town staff gathers public input on the issue. The moratorium prohibits the issuance of building permits for wind turbines within Town limits until December 9, 2009 unless amended or terminated by the Town Board.  It does not affect the construction of turbines for which a permit has already been issued.  After considering staff recommendations based on the public input, the Planning Commission may recommend to Town Trustees the adoption of policies or regulations addressing wind turbine location and operation.

For more information, call the Town of Estes Park Public Information Office at 970-577-3701 or visit www.estes.org.

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Participate in the Bond Park Community Forum October 8

September 29, 2009

The process to create a Master Plan for Bond Park will continue with a second community forum on October 8 from 6:00 to 8:00 p.m. in rooms 202 and 203 of Town Hall, located at 170 MacGregor Avenue.  Join Town staff and the consultant team to review the draft master plan and the most popular design concept for Bond Park. From 6:15 to 6:45 p.m., consultants will present a project overview and virtual tour of the potential design. Afterward there will be time to view the plan in detail, ask questions, make comments and visit with Town staff and the design consultants. 

The Bond Park redesign process has included public voting for preferred concepts through the project website www.bondparkmasterplan.com, a public forum on September 2 and a booth at the Estes Park Arts & Crafts Show.  The process has also included stakeholder meetings, a public survey gathering 356 responses, focus group interviews with 80 representatives from the community and a digital design charrette, where ideas were incorporated into a three-dimensional computerized model of Bond Park.  A summary of public input and images of potential designs are available on the project website www.bondparkmasterplan.com.

For more information, call the Public Information Office at 970-577-3701. To receive Town news in your e-mail inbox, please e-mail spetrie@estes.org.

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Join Mayor Pinkham on October 7 for coffee

September 29, 2009

Mayor Bill Pinkham will hold the next community Coffee-Chat on Wednesday, October 7 at 8:00 a.m. at the Estes Park Senior Center, 220 Fourth Street.  Free coffee and pastries will be provided. Coffee-Chats are good opportunities for community members to discuss local projects, issues, concerns, ideas and opinions with Town officials in an informal atmosphere. Coffee-Chats with the Mayor will be held the first Wednesday of each month at 8:00 a.m. at the Senior Center. However, the December meeting will be cancelled due to a scheduling conflict. For more information call 970-577-3701. 

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Join the Estes Valley Restorative Justice team

September 25, 2009

Residents of the Estes Valley are invited to join the Estes Valley Restorative Justice Partnership team.  Restorative Justice is a non-profit organization composed of 25 volunteer facilitators who conduct an “alternative to court” process built upon restorative justice principles.  The next volunteer facilitator training is scheduled for November 7 and 8 from 8 a.m. to 5 p.m. each day, in Room 202 of the Municipal Building, located at 170 MacGregor Avenue.  Training is free with a one year commitment to Restorative Justice upon completion.  To register, contact Michael Crabbs, Case Manager, at 577-3829.

Facilitator trainees will learn skills in group leadership, active listening, communication, discernment, reframing, and mediation.  Upon completion, participants will be exposed to restorative justice principles and will start a mentoring process to facilitate Community Group Conferences.

The community Group Conference is led by two facilitators and is the primary activity to address juvenile and adult crime as an alternative to the punitive/retributive criminal justice system.  All Restorative Justice programs promote these core values:  Repair harm to victims, offenders and community; reconciliation and repair of relationships;  reintegration into the community; responsibility taken by all individuals for their part in the incident;  restitution to victims; and respect given and received by all.  Conferences give everyone—victims, offenders, and community members—an opportunity to speak and be heard.  Within the conference, the victim’s story is heard; the harms to the victim and community are identified; ideas for repair based upon the offender’s assets are established; a contract to repair the harms is initiated; and, upon successful completion of the contract, there is no criminal entry on the offender’s record.

For more information on Restorative Justice, please call 970-577-3829. To receive Town news in your e-mail inbox, please e-mail spetrie@estes.org.

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Follow the 2010 Town budgeting process

Study sessions held in October; public hearings held in November

September 25, 2009

The Estes Park Town Board will begin reviewing the 2010 Town budget during study sessions to be held the first four Fridays in October.  The public is encouraged to attend study sessions, although public comment is not part of the process until the November 10 and 24 Town Board meetings.  Study sessions will be held from 8:30 a.m. until 12:00 p.m. in the Town Board room of Town Hall, 170 MacGregor Avenue. 

The October 2 study session will include presentations on the following funds: Vehicle replacement, Information Technology, Light and Power, Water, Legislative, Executive, Elections and Finance.   The October 9 study session will include presentations on the following funds:  Museum, Senior Center, Convention & Visitors Bureau, Transportation and Police including Public Safety, Communications and Community Service.  The October 16 study session will include presentations on the following funds:  Fire, Community Development, Protective Inspections, Buildings, Engineering, Streets, Parks, Conservation Trust, Open Space and Fleet.  The October 23 study session will include presentations on the following funds:  Catastrophic Loss, Building Authority, Fire Pension, Police Pension, Theater, Employees Benefits, Community Services Grants, Community Reinvestment, Contingency and Transfers, Medical Insurance and the 2010 Compensation Plan.

The Town also encourages the public to attend 2010 budget hearings, which will take place at the November 10 and November 24 Town Board meetings at 7:00 p.m. in the Town Board Room of Town Hall. These two meetings include public comment and are the culmination of a seven-month budgeting process.

According to the Estes Park Municipal Code, it is Town Administrator Jacquie Halburnt’s responsibility to recommend an annual budget to the Town Board, to administer the budget as it is adopted and to keep the Board of Trustees fully advised at all times of the financial condition of the Town.  In 2009, the budget changed from a biennial budget process to an annual budget process.

Each year, the process begins with creating a budget schedule in April. Next, departments review their budgets and potential needs for the following year. The department heads then meet with the Town Administrator, Deputy Town Administrator and Finance Officer to begin assessing their needs. Pre-budget work sessions were held in July with the Mayor and Board of Trustees to determine priorities and give guidance in budget preparation. The Finance Department then crafts the draft budget to be reviewed with the Town Board during the October budget study sessions. After the budget is approved, it is printed and submitted to the State of Colorado by the end of January.

The Town budget utilizes six types of funds: General, Special Revenue, Debt Service, Enterprise, Internal Service and Fiduciary. The General Fund has 15 departments including Administration, Finance, Community Development, Police, Public Works and Transportation. Revenues for the General Fund are primarily from sales tax. The General Fund strives to maintain a fund balance equal to 30 percent of total expenditures. Special Revenue funds generate some but not all of their own income and include Community Reinvestment, Museum, Senior Center, Conservation Trust, Open Space and CVB. The General Fund subsidizes the Special Revenue funds to varying degrees. As such, Special Revenue Funds generally only maintain fund balances of five percent or less. Enterprise Funds operate much as would a private business, and include the Light & Power and Water Funds. Debt Service funds exist to service debt obligations and include the Building Authority Fund. Internal Service funds exist to service the operation of the Town, and include Fleet, Catastrophic Loss, Medical, Vehicle Replacement and Information Technology. Fiduciary Funds exist to separate assets that the Town manages for third parties – Police and Fire Pensions and Theater (Friends of Stanley Hall).

The 2008 and 2009 Town budgets as well as the Comprehensive Annual Financial Report are available at www.estes.org/finance. For more information please call the Public Information Office at 970-577-3701. To receive Town news in your e-mail inbox, please e-mail spetrie@estes.org.

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Knox Boxes save time during emergencies

September 24, 2009

Want to protect your home or business in the event of a fire?  Installing a Knox Box is a simple, secure way to give firefighters access to your unattended property.  Knox Boxes hold keys to the property so firefighters can quickly enter the premises to assess the problem -- without causing unnecessary damage to doors and windows.  Property owners may visit www.knoxbox.com to order a unit; the local Fire Chief will be notified of the order.  After installation, the property owner must contact the Fire Chief at 970-577-0900 to install keys and lock the box.

Certain properties are required to have a Knox Box under the Estes Park Municipal Code, section 8.04.091.  These properties include commercial or industrial structures protected by an automatic alarm or suppression system and multi-family residences with a common corridor for access to living units that must be entered through a locked door.  Businesses and residences without alarms are also encouraged to use a Knox Box to allow faster access if no one is on the scene when firefighters arrive.

Only firefighters have access to Knox boxes.  In order to access keys to the property on scene, the chief or two firefighters must enter their personal identification codes, which are recorded within the fire apparatus along with the time of access. 

All property owners should ensure that their street address is adequately posted. Fire and other emergency services personnel must be able to clearly see a property address in order to provide assistance.  Municipal Code states that street numbers must be clearly legible from the street or roadway fronting the property. Letters or numbers must be a minimum of three inches in height with a stroke at least ½ inch thick.  Their color should highly contrast with the background; reflective numbers are recommended.   Adjacent trees and shrubs should be trimmed to maintain visibility of the street address.

The Municipal Code may be viewed at www.estes.org/townclerk. For more information, call the Estes Park Volunteer Fire Department at 970-577-0900. For emergencies, always dial 9-1-1. To receive Town news in your e-mail inbox, please e-mail spetrie@estes.org.  

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Estes Park saves 67,582 bags during the CAST challenge

September 24, 2009

Estes Park residents and visitors saved 67,582 plastic bags by using reusable bags – all part of the 2009 Colorado Association of Ski Towns (CAST) Reusable Bag Challenge March 1 through September 1.  Locally facilitated by the League of Women Voters, the CAST challenge was a friendly competition among 31 mountain towns in the Western United States.  The goal of the challenge was to encourage the use of reusable shopping bags and raise awareness of the economic, environmental and social impacts of single-use shopping bags. Collectively, participating towns eliminated the consumption of an estimated 5.3-million single-use disposable bags. 

The Colorado town of Basalt won the challenge, which was determined on a per capita basis by which community used the most reusable bags during the six-month period.  The prize was a solar panel installation for a public school in the community. 

Estes Park took 11th place among the 31 participating towns with a per capita bag savings of 10.78. Participating local businesses included Safeway, A La Carte, Earthwood Artisans, Sphere of Influence, the Rocky Mountain Nature Association, Local Roots Co-Op, Lizzie’s Boutique, Estes Park Public Library, True Value and Rocky Mountain Pharmacy. 

Other participating towns included Telluride, Aspen, Mountain Village, Snowmass Village, Carbondale, Gunnison, Silverthorne, Dillon, Breckenridge, Frisco, Granby, Winter Park, Fraser, Avon, Crested Butte/Mt. Crested Butte, Durango, Eagle, Edwards, Grand Lake, Gypsum, Silverton, Steamboat Springs, Gunnison and Vail.  Jackson Hole, WY, Park City, UT, Sun Valley, Ketchum, Hailey and Bellevue also participated.

For more information please call the Public Information Office at 970-577-3701. To receive Town news in your e-mail inbox, please e-mail spetrie@estes.org.

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Vote for your favorite Bond Park design by September 30

September 22, 2009

As part of the process to create a Master Plan for Bond Park, the Town of Estes Park is asking the community to vote for potential park designs by visiting www.bondparkmasterplan.com. Votes will be accepted through September 30, 2009. Visitors to the website can review three design concepts with three-dimensional views, winter scenarios and event configurations before voting on a preferred concept. 

The redesign process continues with a second community forum on October 8 from 6:00 to 8:00 p.m. in rooms 202 and 203 of Town Hall, located at 170 MacGregor Avenue.  Join Town staff and the consultant team to review the draft master plan and the preferred design concept for Bond Park. At 6:15 p.m. consultants will present a 30- to 40-minute project overview and virtual tour of the potential design. Afterward there will be time for questions and comments and to visit with Town staff and consultants.

For more information, please visit www.bondparkmasterplan.com or call the Public Information Office at 970-577-3701. To receive Town news in your e-mail inbox, please e-mail spetrie@estes.org.

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Seasonal flu shot clinics offered October 7 and 14 at the Estes Park Senior Center

September 22, 2009 

On October 7 and 14 the Estes Park Senior Center, located at 220 Fourth Street, will host seasonal flu vaccination clinics from 1:00 until 4:00 p.m. each day; no appointments are necessary. A vaccine for pneumonia will also be available.  H1N1 flu (swine flu) vaccinations will not be offered at this clinic. Clinics are co-sponsored by the Senior Center and the Estes Park Medical Center (EPMC); Family Medical Center nurses will administer vaccinations.

EPMC will bill Medicare and other insurance companies; please bring a photo I.D. and insurance card.  Patients who pay out-of-pocket on the day of a clinic will receive a 20% discount; $24 will be charged for flu shots and $39.20 will be charged for pneumonia shots. Patients who choose to be billed later will be charged $30 for flu shots and $49 for pneumonia shots.

The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) recommend getting a seasonal flu vaccine as soon it becomes available each year. This is the first and most important step in protecting against seasonal flu.  Annual seasonal flu vaccination is particularly important for people with a high risk of serious flu complications including young children, pregnant women, individuals with chronic health conditions such as asthma, diabetes, heart or lung disease and older adults. 

The seasonal flu vaccine does not protect against H1N1 flu.  A separate H1N1 vaccine will be available through the Larimer County Department of Health and the Environment later this fall.  The CDC recommends the H1N1 vaccine, in addition to a seasonal flu shot, for individuals who are at the greatest risk for H1N1 infection or serious complications.  These groups include children, young adults ages 19 to 24, pregnant women and adults ages 25 to 64 with chronic health conditions. Healthcare workers and individuals who are in close contact with infants less than six months of age should also get vaccinated for H1N1 flu. 

For more information on both seasonal flu and H1N1 flu, please visit www.flu.gov. For more information on the seasonal flu shot clinics, call the Estes Park Senior Center at 970-586-2996.

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Town offers savings on energy efficient lighting

September 22, 2009

Estes Park Light & Power, Platte River Power Authority and local retailers have partnered to offer Lighting with a Twist, a discount program for the purchase of ENERGY STAR ^® compact fluorescent light (CFL) bulbs.  Lighting with a Twist discounts are offered at Ace Hardware of Estes Park, 561 Lone Pine Dr., and Estes True Value & Radio Shack in Stanley Village, 461 E. Wonderview Ave. The discount is offered while supplies last; product selection and pricing vary by store.

On Saturday, October 3, staff from the Town’s Utilities Department and Platte River Power Authority will host an in-store event at Ace Hardware from 10:00 a.m. until 2:00 p.m.  Staff will provide product demonstrations and answers to lighting questions such as, “What style of CFL bulb do I need for my home?” 

Installation of CFLs saves time, money and energy while providing high-quality light.  Each CFL can last 10 times longer than a conventional incandescent bulb while using up to 75% less energy.  A CFL saves far more in energy costs than its purchase price. In fact, users can save up to $30 in energy costs per bulb over its lifetime. 

In 2008, Lighting with a Twist customers in Platte River Power Authority’s owner communities of Estes Park, Fort Collins, Longmont and Loveland purchased approximately 102,000 discounted CFL bulbs for an estimated savings of 1.9 million kilowatt-hours of electricity per year. 

CFL bulbs must be properly recycled as they contain trace amounts of mercury.  Ace Hardware of Estes Park is also a free disposal location for burned-out or broken CFLs.

For more information on the program or the October 3 event, call the Town of Estes Park Utilities Department at 970-577-3581 or visit www.lightingwithatwist.com.  To receive Town news in your e-mail inbox, e-mail spetrie@estes.org.

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New survey seeks public opinion on wind turbines and other renewable energy efforts

September 14, 2009

The Town of Estes Park is asking for public opinion on small-scale residential wind turbines and other renewable energy efforts through an online survey available at www.estes.org.  Visitors will find the survey by clicking on the Renewable Energy Survey link on the left side of the homepage. The survey can be completed in 5 to 10 minutes. Responses are anonymous and will be accepted from September 15 through October 15.  Individuals without internet access may request a printed survey at the Administration Office, Room 150, of Town Hall, located at 170 MacGregor Avenue.

The information collected in the survey will guide Town staff and officials in making related decisions for the community. Survey results will indicate the level of public support for existing and potential Town-sponsored renewable energy and efficiency programs and gather opinions on how the Estes Valley Development Code should address residential wind turbine installations.  

The survey is part of a broad effort to involve the public in decisions related to residential wind turbine policies. Public discussions were also held in April and August of this year.

The temporary moratorium on wind turbine installation passed by the Town Board will continue as Town staff gathers public input on the issue. The moratorium prohibits the issuance of building permits for wind turbines within Town limits until December 9, 2009 unless amended or terminated by the Town Board.  It does not affect the construction of turbines for which a permit has already been issued.  After considering staff recommendations based on the public input, the Planning Commission may recommend to Town Trustees the adoption of policies or regulations addressing wind turbines.

For more information, call the Town of Estes Park Public Information Office at 970-577-3701.

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Connie Bowser joins the Fire Department team

September 9, 2009

The Estes Park Volunteer Fire Department welcomed Connie Bowser as its new administrative assistant on August 31.  Bowser serves as the primary point of contact and information for the public.  She is also responsible for creating and tracking fire department personnel records, report creation and tracking, scheduling and database management.

Fire Chief Scott Dorman commented, “We are excited to have Connie join the fire department team.”  Dorman continued, “She brings a reputation of tremendous customer service and great organizational skills to our department.”

Bowser began work with the Town’s Community Development Department Building Division in May of 2006. She previously lived in Lake Worth, Florida where she was a Distribution Department coordinator and customer relations specialist for JM Family Enterprises, a Fortune 500 Company.  Bowser was also an office manager for Dynamic Business Systems.  She holds a Bachelor’s degree in Communications/Public Relations.

Bowser and her husband Jimmy have been residents of Estes Park since March of 2006.  In her free time, she enjoys hiking in Rocky Mountain National Park, volunteering in the community and attending church with her husband. 

For more information, stop by the Dannels Fire Station at 901 North Saint Vrain Ave., call 970-577-0900 or visit www.estesparkfire.com.   For emergencies, call 911.

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Vote for your favorite Bond Park design

September 8, 2009

As part of the redesign of Bond Park, the Town of Estes Park is asking the community to weigh in on potential park designs by visiting www.bondparkmasterplan.com.  Visitors to the website can review three design concepts with three-dimensional views, winter scenarios and event configurations before voting on a preferred concept.  Votes will be accepted through September 30, 2009.

The redesign process continues with the second of two community forums on October 8 from 6:00 to 8:00 p.m. in rooms 202 and 203 of Town Hall, located at 170 MacGregor Avenue.  Join Town staff and the consultant team to review the draft master plan and the most popular design concept for Bond Park. At 6:15 p.m. consultants will present a 30- to 40-minute project overview and virtual tour of the potential design. Afterward there will be time for questions and comments and to visit with Town staff and consultants.

To date, the redesign of Bond Park has included a public open house, a voting booth at the Estes Park Arts & Crafts Show, stakeholder meetings, a public survey that gathered 356 responses, focus group interviews with 80 representatives from the community and a digital design charrette, where ideas were incorporated into a three-dimensional computerized model of Bond Park.  A summary of public input is available on the project website www.bondparkmasterplan.com. For more information, call the Public Information Office at 970-577-3701. To receive Town news in your e-mail inbox, please e-mail spetrie@estes.org.

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Municipal offices closed on Labor Day

August 31, 2009

In observance of Labor Day, Town of Estes Park offices will be closed on Monday, September 7.  Normal operating hours will resume on Tuesday, September 8.  For more information, call 970-577-3701.  Please visit the Town of Estes Park website www.estes.org.

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Firefighters fill the boot for MDA

August 28, 2009

The Estes Park Volunteer Fire Department (EPVFD) firefighters will collect donations for the Muscular Dystrophy Association (MDA) for its Labor Day weekend “Fill-the-Boot” campaign.  The firefighters will be located along Elkhorn Avenue from 10:00 a.m. until 5:00 p.m. on both Sunday, September 6 and Monday, September 7. 

The money collected goes directly to MDA, which allocates the funds back to this region to help individuals with muscular dystrophy (MD) pay for medical attention and equipment.  Donation money also sends children with MD to a summer camp where they each have a counselor to assist them so they can enjoy everyday kid activities.   Remaining funds go to research for a cure for the 43 forms of MD diseases.  Some of this research is conducted in the state of Colorado.

The EPVFD has participated in MDA fund drives for more than 25 years.  Since 1999, they have raised $81,564 for the cause.  Fire departments have been one of the biggest supporters of MDA.  Last year, firefighters nationwide collection $28 million; Colorado firefighters raised more than $1.25 million.

For more information, stop by the Fire Station at 901 North Saint Vrain Ave., call 970-577-0900 or visit www.estesparkfire.com.   For emergencies, call 911.

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Voters will decide the future of EPURA on January 12, 2010

August 26, 2009

At the August 25 Estes Park Town Board meeting, Trustees adopted a resolution to send an Initiated Ordinance regarding the Estes Park Urban Renewal Authority (EPURA) to a special election on Tuesday, January 12, 2010.  Voters will decide whether or not to abolish EPURA and if a vote of approval will be required before the creation of any new Urban Renewal Authority. 

As a coordinated election with Larimer County, ballots will be mailed to registered voters of the municipality.  Since election material cannot be forwarded, voters should ensure their valid mailing address is registered with the Larimer County Clerk and Recorder by calling 970-498-7820 or visiting www.co.larimer.co.us.

The proposed measure was brought forth by citizens William Van Horn and Larry Pesses. The Town Clerk’s office approved the Initiated Ordinance form on April 28, 2009.  On July 8, 2009, 27 petitions were submitted by Van Horn and Pesses. Signatures from 5% of the registered electors, or 226 valid signatures, were required; petitions were determined valid by the Clerk’s office with 229 signatures. The Town Board had the following options regarding the Initiated Ordinance:  Adopt without alteration the ordinance as proposed; refer the Initiated Ordinance to the registered electors of the municipality at a coordinated election on November 3, 2009; refer the Initiated Ordinance to the registered electors of the municipality at a special election to be held on a Tuesday between October 27, 2009 and January 19, 2010.  

EPURA is an independent governmental entity established by the Town of Estes Park in 1982 to plan and implement physical improvements to enhance the Estes Park community and economy. For more information on EPURA, please visit www.estes.org/EPURA. For information on the special election, please contact the Town Clerk’s office at 970-577-3702.

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Join in the Bond Park redesign process

August 25, 2009

As part of the redesign of Bond Park, the Town of Estes Park is hosting the first of two community open houses on Wednesday, September 2, from 6:00 to 8:00 p.m. in rooms 202 and 203 of Town Hall, located at 170 MacGregor Avenue. The public is invited to attend and comment as design consultants present up-to-date project information, public input and findings as well as present three potential park design concepts. A second open house will be held on October 8 for the public to comment on a draft master plan.

To date, the redesign of Bond Park has included stakeholder meetings, a public survey that gathered 356 responses, focus group interviews with 80 representatives from the community and a digital design charrette, where ideas were incorporated into a three-dimensional computerized model of Bond Park.  A summary of public input is available on the project website www.bondparkmasterplan.com. Visitors to the site can submit comments and questions to the consultants, view details for upcoming design team events and view documents and plans as they become available.  Public Works staff will also accept public input on the Bond Park redesign during the Estes Park Arts & Crafts Show, which will be held in Bond Park over Labor Day weekend. 

Town Administrator Jacquie Halburnt commented on the redesign process, saying, “It’s important to the Town that the community plays a role in determining the future of Bond Park.” Prior to becoming open space, Bond Park was a playground for children attending the adjacent first school and later was the site for facilities including the post office, fire hall, police station, library and chamber of commerce.  For more information, call the Public Information Office at 970-577-3701 or visit www.bondparkmasterplan.com.  To receive Town news in your e-mail inbox, please e-mail spetrie@estes.org.

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Join Mayor Pinkham to chat over coffee

August 25, 2009

Mayor Bill Pinkham would like to invite the community to his monthly community meeting, Coffee-Chat with the Mayor.  The next Coffee-Chat is Wednesday, September 2, 2009, at 8:00 a.m. at the Estes Park Senior Center, 220 Fourth Street.  Free coffee and breakfast rolls will be provided.

These meetings allow the public to meet with Town officials in an informal atmosphere for an open discussion of local projects, issues, concerns, ideas and opinions. Coffee-Chats with the Mayor will continue to take place the first Wednesday of each month at 8:00 a.m. at the Senior Center. However, the December meeting will be cancelled due to a scheduling conflict. For more information call 970-577-3701.

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Community Emergency Response Team recruiting new members

August 25, 2009

Citizens are encouraged to sign up for the Community Emergency Response Team (CERT) trainings, which will take place September 14 through October 8.  Classes will be held from 6:00 to 9:00 p.m. on Monday and Thursday evenings at the Dannels Fire Station, located at 901 North Saint Vrain Ave.  The series is free; space is limited to 20 individuals.  For more information or to sign up, please contact Amanda Nagl, Community Services Manager for the Estes Park Police Department, at 970-577-3822.  Once the series is filled to capacity, a wait list will be established for 2010 CERT training. 

CERT is a local effort to teach Estes Valley citizens how to care for themselves and their neighbors when Emergency Response services are not available.  Topics include general disaster preparedness, fire safety, disaster medical operations, light search and rescue operations, incident command and disaster psychology.  A practical drill will be held during class time on October 5.  Past training has been offered by emergency response service professionals from the Estes Park Police Department, the Estes Park Volunteer Fire Department, Estes Park Ambulance, Rocky Mountain National Park and Larimer County Search and Rescue. CERT training was first offered last fall and will now be offered twice yearly with quarterly continuing education.

CERT is a program of Citizen Corp, a national organization designed to make communities stronger by educating and training its members in areas such as public health and disaster/terrorism response.  Funded through the U.S. Department of Homeland Security, the mission of Citizen Corp is accomplished through a network of state, local and tribal Citizen Corp Councils.  Estes Park is part of the Larimer County Citizen Corps Council, which was introduced through the “B Ready” Campaign in 2007.  The “yellow reminder,” B Ready was hosted by local residents, organizations and businesses to remind citizens to prepare for disaster by preparing emergency survival kits. 

For more information please call 970-577-3822. To receive Town news in your e-mail inbox, please e-mail spetrie@estes.org.

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Town accepting applications for community service grants

August 24, 2009 

The Town of Estes Park is in now accepting applications for grant funding from organizations that provide services in the Estes Park area.  The Town appropriates money to non-profit organizations at the discretion of the Town Board, subject to current Town Board goals and availability of funds. Traditionally, organizations have been funded under the general categories of Human Services, Arts, Education, Youth and Housing.  In 2009, the Town provided $362,491 to local service organizations through tax revenue in the General Fund budget.  However, Trustees may consider a 5% decrease in grant funding for 2010. 

To apply for 2010 funding, please complete a Community Services Funding Application and return it no later than Monday, September 14, 2009. Applications are available for download here and at the Town Clerk’s Office in Room 150 of Town Hall, located at 170 MacGregor Avenue in Estes Park.  Completed applications should be mailed to:  Town Clerk’s Office, P.O. Box 1200, Estes Park, CO  80517; dropped off at the Town Clerk’s Office, 170 MacGregor Avenue, Room 150; or e-mailed to cdeats@estes.org. 

Organizations that receive funds in 2010 will be required to complete an Annual Report – 2009 Grants form outlining actual expenditures and reporting on the project outcomes.  The report must be completed and filed no later than March 31, 2010. If you have questions related to the application process, please contact the Clerk’s office at 970-577-3703.

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Community invited to a “Wetdown” party for Fire Engine 7

August 21, 2009

The Estes Park Volunteer Fire Department (EPVFD), Mayor Bill Pinkham and Town Trustees invite the community to an open house on Saturday, August 29 from 11:30 a.m. until 2:30 p.m. at the Dannels Fire Station, located at 901 North St. Vrain Ave. in Estes Park.  The open house will include a traditional “Wetdown” of the new fire engine as it goes into service. Free hotdogs, chips and ice cream will be served.  Balloons and prizes will be given away.  Sparky the Fire Dog will be there to teach kids about fire safety.  Visitors can get a close look at Engine 7 as well as antique firefighting apparatus displayed by firefighter Doug Klink, including a steam driven pumper that was drawn by horses and a 1938 fire engine.  

A Wetdown is a ritual celebrated by many volunteer fire departments in the United States in which firefighters commission a new fire apparatus by anointing it with water sprayed by another apparatus. Engine 7 will be sprayed by the antique pumper.

Fire Chief Scott Dorman commented, “The addition of Engine 7 Increases our capability to provide fire and rescue services to the community.”  Chief Dorman explained that Engine 7 carries more firefighters than other apparatus, allowing for faster deployment of equipment and resources.  Additionally, many of the engine’s hoses are equipped with integrated foam capability for faster knockdown of a fire and a smaller chance of re-kindle, as well as vapor and fire suppression in the event of a large fuel spill. 

Currently, a minimum of two apparatus, an engine and the rescue truck, are needed at a motor vehicle accident to provide extrication and fire suppression. However, Engine 7 is capable of extrication and fire suppression as a single unit, and EPVFD can now respond more quickly to motor vehicle accidents at different locations.  The additional fire engine also helps maintain current fire protection ratings for the area, which are used to determine property tax insurance rates.

For more information, stop by the Fire Station at 901 North Saint Vrain Ave., call 970-577-0900 or visit www.estesparkfire.com. For emergencies, call 911.

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Town underscores identify theft prevention practices

August 14, 2009

After a unanimous vote by the Town Board on July 28, the Town of Estes Park has formalized its identity theft prevention program with a Red Flag Policy.  In accordance with the Federal Trade Commission (FTC) Red Flag Rules, the program is designed to prevent citizen identity theft for those who have water and electric utilities accounts managed by the Finance Department. 

Although identity theft prevention procedures have been in place at the Town, the adoption of the Red Flag Policy aligns the Town program with the FTC’s program. Preventative action by the Finance Department includes limiting customer account access to only the employees responsible for opening and managing accounts.  These employees are also responsible for identifying “red flags,” or warning signs, as they relate to customer identities. Red flags may include alerts from other agencies, presentation of suspicious documents or identification and unusual account activities.

Finance Officer Steve McFarland commented on the program, saying “We will continue to design and implement systems that will protect citizens’ identities while they are doing business with the Town.”  McFarland continued, “We strive to combine efficiency and thoroughness while providing citizens with the same level of customer service that they currently enjoy.”

For more information on the Town’s identity theft prevention program, call Finance Director McFarland at 970-577-3560. To receive Town news in your e-mail inbox, please e-mail spetrie@estes.org.

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Town Board places a temporary moratorium on wind turbines

August 12, 2009

At their August 11 meeting, the Estes Park Town Board passed a resolution imposing a temporary moratorium on the issuance of building permits for wind turbines within Town limits.  Effective immediately, the moratorium will continue for 120 days unless amended or terminated by the Town Board.  It will not affect the construction of turbines for which a permit has already been issued.  Further, the Community Development Department has received no additional applications for a permit that would be affected.

The purpose of the moratorium is to allow the Town to hear public comment regarding the installation and operation of small-scale residential wind turbines within the Town limits.  After reviewing public input, the Town Board can consider the adoption of any necessary regulations addressing any negative impacts of wind turbine location and operation. The Community Development Department held the first public forum in April, 2009 followed by another on August 13. 

For more information, call the Town of Estes Park Community Development Department at 970-577-3721.  To receive Town news in your e-mail inbox, please e-mail spetrie@estes.org.

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Town invites community to dedicate the newest section of the Fall River Trail

August 11, 2009

The public is invited to join Town of Estes Park Trustees and staff on Wednesday, August 19 at 10:00 a.m. for a ceremonial dedication of the newest completed phase of the Fall River Trail.  The ceremony will take place along the trail, just east of the West Elkhorn Avenue intersection with West Wonderview Avenue. Parking is available on the roadside as well as in a dirt parking area along West Elkhorn approximately 1,000 feet to the east of the ceremony site. 

The Town’s plan to complete the trail system through the Fall River Corridor consists of approximately nine phases, with four phases completed since 2002.  The Fall River Trail begins at Performance Park on West Elkhorn Avenue and continues west to Fall River Road and currently ends near the Castle Mountain Lodge establishment. 

Phase four engineering design and construction management was completed by Van Horn Engineering & Surveying of Estes Park.  The concrete trail was constructed by Cornerstone Concrete Company (Bob Pavlish) of Estes Park and included 3,535 feet of trail at a cost of $298,000 to the Town of Estes Park. Lafarge Corporation made the generous donation of about $20,000 worth of brown color additive that adds to the character of the trail and valley.

There is currently an additional $140,000 contributed through the Colorado Department of Transportation (CDOT) as part of the American Recovery and Reinvestment Act along with a matching sum by the Town to extend phase four an additional 1,400 feet west, and end near the Blackhawk Lodges. This phase is planned for later in 2009.

The next phases of trail construction are planned but not yet designed or funded.  When all phases are complete, the trail will conclude at Rocky Mountain National Park’s Fall River Visitor Center, with a branch serving the Town’s Historic Fall River Hydroplant museum on Fish Hatchery Road. 

For more information, call the Town of Estes Park Public Works Department at 970-577-3588. To receive Town news in your e-mail inbox, please e-mail Sandra Petrie at spetrie@estes.org. 

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Estes Park Pride Awards nominations begin in January

August 11, 2009

The nomination period for the next Estes Park Pride Awards will begin in January, 2010. In years past, nominations began in September. The awards were developed by the Town of Estes Park in 2005 to honor the many residents who give back to the community. Awards are granted for Business Person of the Year, Teacher of the Year, and Volunteer of the Year. The Estes Park High School Student Pride Scholarship will also be awarded and handled through the normal application process for local scholarships at the high school counseling office.

The general schedule for the awards includes the application period in January and February with awards presented in April at the annual volunteer appreciation event. Detailed dates and other information will be available at the beginning of 2010.

For more information, call the Town Clerk’s Office at 970-577-3703. To receive Town news in your e-mail inbox, please e-mail Sandra Petrie at spetrie@estes.org. 

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Give back to the Estes Valley, become a volunteer firefighter

August 4, 2009

Volunteer firefighters are needed at the Estes Park Volunteer Fire Department (EPVFD).  The EPVFD seeks motivated people with a desire to learn diverse skills and serve the community.  No experience is necessary; training will be provided.

Interested individuals can obtain an application at the Dannels Fire Station at 901 North Saint Vrain Ave. between 8:00 a.m. and 5:00 p.m., Monday through Friday.  Applications, requirements and detailed information on tryouts are also available on the EPVFD website at www.estesparkfire.com.  Completed applications are due by 5:00 p.m., on October 2, 2009. All applicants will be contacted after October 16 and tryouts will be held on October 24. 

Training for new recruits consists of CPR and a four-month firefighter academy.  The academy is comprised of approximately 150 hours of in-class time plus study time.  When the academy schedule allows, there are additional Tuesday evening training sessions and business meetings.

Volunteers are on-call 24 hours a day, seven days a week, responding to help neighbors, friends and strangers alike.  They respond to structure and wildland fires, motor vehicle accidents, medical calls, smoke alarms, hazardous materials incidents, odor investigations, gas leaks and countless additional situations.  When the call is completed, volunteers return to the station to ensure that equipment is ready for service on the next call. 

For more information, stop by the Fire Station at 901 North Saint Vrain Ave., call 970-577-0900 or visit www.estesparkfire.com. For emergencies, call 911.

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Town asks public to weigh in on residential wind turbines

August 4, 2009

The Town of Estes Park Community Development Department will host a public discussion regarding local regulation of small-scale residential wind turbines on August 13, at 6:00 p.m. in the Town Board Room of Town Hall, 170 MacGregor Avenue.  With the advent of this technology, Estes Park faces important regulatory decisions pertaining to height restrictions, visual impacts and noise.  The Town is seeking input on what changes, if any, should be made to the Estes Valley Development Code to regulate wind turbines. These regulations must weigh the rights and expectations of individual property owners against the broader community values and standards.  Property owners and residents of the Estes Valley are invited to participate in this public discussion.

Small scale wind turbines come in a variety of shapes and sizes. Many machines have three blades and are mounted on either a monopole, which is similar to a cell-tower pole, or a lattice tower with guy wires. These are considered horizontal-axis systems. The rule-of-thumb for horizontal axis wind generators is that they should be at least 30 feet taller than the nearest trees or structures, a height of 60 to 80 feet, in order to achieve stable wind and optimum operating efficiency.  Current Estes Valley height regulations restrict all structures to a maximum height of 30 feet above existing grade.  There are also vertical axis systems that, instead of three radial blades, the system rotates around a center much like an old-fashioned barbershop pole. Vertical axis turbines are typically mounted at lower heights on a monopole, although they can also be mounted on roofs.

The Town Board will also consider a temporary moratorium on wind turbines at the August 11 Town Board meeting at 7:00 p.m. in the Town Board Room of Town Hall, 170 MacGregor Avenue.  A moratorium would not allow any building permits to be issued for wind turbines until code changes are implemented.  However, a moratorium would not apply to any wind turbines that are already in the application process.

For more information, call the Town of Estes Park Public Information Office at 970-577-3701 or visit www.estes.org.

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Town seeks more community input on Bond Park design

August 4, 2009

The Town of Estes Park recently began a process to involve the community in a redesign of Bond Park.  The park, which was used for 27 community events by more than 80,000 people in 2008, is in need of a makeover to make it a more user-friendly and sustainable space.  The community is an important part of the process – providing insight into park uses and potential. 

Join in the process

On Monday, August 10, the Bond Park design team will conduct a digital design charrette with a group of community stakeholders from 9:00 a.m. until 12:00 p.m. and from 1:00 p.m. until 5:00 p.m. in Room 130 on the first floor of Town Hall, located at 170 MacGregor Ave. While no public comment will be taken, the public is invited to drop in and observe as the design team uses computerized 3-dimensional modeling software to develop concept plans for Bond Park within a model of the existing park setting.

On Wednesday, September 2, from 6:00 p.m. to 8:00 p.m. in rooms 202 and 203 of Town Hall, Town staff and design consultants will host the first of two community open houses.  Design consultants will present up-to-date project information, public input and findings as well as present three potential park design concepts.  The public invited to attend and comment.  

Thus far in the process, design input has been collected from consultants through a community survey which received approximately 350 responses.  Focus group interviews were held in July to gather the opinions of stakeholders and included approximately 80 representatives of community partners, local civic groups, the downtown business community and Town officials and staff. 

A project website has been established at www.bondparkmasterplan.com.  Visitors to the project website can submit comments and questions to the consultants, check details for upcoming design team events and view documents and plans as they become available.

Town Administrator Jacquie Halburnt commented, “Bond Park has been a gathering place for residents and visitors for decades – it’s important to the Town that the community plays a role in determining the future of the park.”  Winston Associates, Inc. was hired to facilitate the process, with assistance from Progressive Urban Management Associates, Van Horn Engineering and Survey, Inc., Architectural Engineering Design Group and Avocet Irrigation Design. 

A Town-owned property, Bond Park has been a central gathering place for Estes Park residents and visitors for decades. It will be the setting for approximately the same number of events in 2009.  Prior to becoming open space, it was a playground for children attending the adjacent first school and later was the site for facilities including the post office, fire hall, police station, library and chamber of commerce.  For more information, call the public information office at 970-577-3701 or visit www.estes.org.

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Estes Park Named Finalist for NLC’s 2009 Awards for Municipal Excellence

July 28, 2009

The National League of Cities (NLC) and CH2M HILL announce that Estes Park was chosen as a finalist for the 2009 Awards for Municipal Excellence.  Sponsored with CH2M HILL, the Awards for Municipal Excellence recognize cities and towns for outstanding programs which improve the quality of life in America’s communities.

“The Estes Valley Restorative Justice Partnership, truly embodies the spirit in which America’s cities excel and welcome the future,” said Donald J. Borut, NLC Executive Director. “NLC congratulates the Town of Estes Park for its successful efforts to help the community thrive.”

NLC received 192 nominations from cities and towns in 39 states.  Estes Park was one of 34 programs selected as finalists.  The finalists exhibited exceptional public-private partnerships, productive citizen and community collaborations, management of municipal resources, implementation of government policies, project implementation with tangible results, and/or the ability to replicate the project in other cities. 

The Estes Valley Restorative Justice Partnership exists to reduce crime and disorder by applying the principles of Restorative Justice.  In doing so, the project seeks to improve victim services, reduce arrests, reduce repeat offending and allow community members to be a more visible role in our justice process.  It is a community-based program, designed to repair harms caused by crime and to create a balance of justice equitable to the victim, the offender, and the community.  In the last six years, the program has received over 185 cases. EVRJP and the Estes Park Police Department have positively impacted youth and the community with an 89% completion rate and an 82% non re-offend rate, compared to the national average of 42% for the traditional system.  The criminalization of juvenile behavior has been reduced by over 50%.  All participants are asked to fill out a survey at the end of the conference and the results have consistently showed, the last five years, that victims and community members are 98% “satisfied” or “very satisfied” with the services provided. 

“We applaud the work of these municipal leaders for exploring and implementing ways to better their communities,” said CH2M HILL CEO Lee McIntire.   “Estes Park has followed a path of innovation, focusing on a sustainable life for all citizens.”

The winners of the 2009 Awards for Municipal Excellence will be announced at a luncheon during NLC’s Congress of Cities and Exposition in San Antonio, Texas on November 13.

 NLC partnered with CH2M HILL in 1989 to create the James C. Howland Awards for Urban Enrichment, named in honor of CH2M HILL’s founding partner and first chief executive officer.  The program was renamed the Awards for Municipal Excellence in 2005.  Now in its 20th year, the program continues the tradition of prestigious recognition. For more information, please call 970-577-3701 and visit the Town website at www.estes.org.

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38,000 bags saved so far in the CAST Reusable Bag Challenge

July 28, 2009

From March through June, Estes Park residents and visitors have used nearly 38,000 reusable bags as part of the 2009 Colorado Association of Ski Towns (CAST) Reusable Bag Challenge.  Facilitated by the League of Women Voters, the goal of this program is to raise awareness of the environmental and social costs of single-use plastic shopping bags and to promote the use of reusable shopping bags. 

The challenge is a friendly competition between members of CAST and began March 1 and will continue through September 1, 2009. All together, 30 mountain towns have agreed to be part of the challenge.  Participating along with Estes Park are Telluride; Mountain Village; Aspen; Carbondale; Snowmass; Basalt; Breckenridge; Silverthorne; Silverton; Dillon; Durango; Frisco; Gunnison; Steamboat Springs; Grand Lake; Granby; Winter Park; Fraser; Crested Butte; Avon; Vail; Eagle; Gypsum; Mt. Crested Butte; Jackson Hole, WY; Park City, UT; Sun Valley, ID; Ketchum, ID and Hailey, ID.  The winner will be determined by which community tallies the most uses of reusable bags on a per capita basis.  The prize is $10,000 toward a solar panel for local schools.

Ten Estes Park businesses participate in the challenge including Safeway, A La Carte, Earthwood Artisans, Sphere of Influence, the Rocky Mountain Nature Association, Local Roots Co-Op, Lizzie’s Boutique, Estes Park Public Library, True Value and Rocky Mountain Pharmacy.  Any commercial business that offers customers single-use plastic HDPE bags (standard plastic bags) can be included in the Challenge.  It is hoped that the merchant encourages the use of reusable bags in their stores and they must also be able to somehow record reusable bag usage.  Representatives check in with participating stores throughout the Challenge to record reusable bag tallies.

CAST estimates that participating communities across Colorado could reduce the consumption of close to 7 million single-use plastic bags during the Challenge. For more information or to register your business as a participant, contact Irene Little at stadthaus2005@gmail.com  or Diane Burkepile at encounter1010@msn.com.

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Wendell Amos celebrated by community members

July 27, 2009

Estes Park Mayor Bill Pinkham, Town of Estes Park staff, and members of the community gathered the morning of July 22 to honor former Estes Park resident Wendell Amos for 24 years of service to the community.  A ponderosa pine tree was planted in his name at the southeast corner of the Estes Park Public Library, located at 335 East Elkhorn Avenue. 

Amos’s children, David Amos and Linda Knight, attended the ceremony and took part in the tree-planting.  They also accepted tokens of appreciation for their father’s work including a map of Land Trust areas dedicated by conservation easement from Rocky Mountain National Park staff, which were major projects accomplished by Amos.

Amos served on the Board of Directors for the Estes Valley Improvement Association, the Estes Valley Land Trust, the Estes Park Planning Commission, the Larimer County Planning Commission, Habitat for Humanity, the Tree Board, and numerous other organizations for the betterment of the community. He recently moved to Florida for health reasons.  For more information, please call the Public Information Office at 970-577-3701.

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Next Mayor’s Coffee-chat is September 2

July 27, 2009

Mayor Bill Pinkham will host the next monthly community meeting, Coffee-Chat with the Mayor, on September 2, at 8:00 a.m. at the Estes Park Senior Center, 220 Fourth Street.  Free coffee and cinnamon rolls will be provided. The August Coffee-Chat is cancelled due to scheduling conflicts. 

These meetings allow the public to meet with Town officials in an informal atmosphere for an open discussion of local projects, issues, concerns, ideas and opinions. Coffee-Chats with the Mayor will take place the first Wednesday of each month at 8:00 a.m. at the Senior Center. For more information call 970-577-3701.

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Join Town staff to plant a tree in honor of Wendell Amos

July 15, 2009

The Town of Estes Park invites the public to join Mayor Bill Pinkham and Town of Estes Park staff on Wednesday, July 22 to honor former Estes Park resident Wendell Amos for 24 years of service to the community.  A ponderosa pine tree will be planted out of respect for Amos.  The ceremony begins at 10:00 a.m. at the southeast corner of the Estes Park Public Library, located at 335 East Elkhorn Avenue. 

Amos served on the Board of Directors for the Estes Valley Improvement Association, the Estes Valley Land Trust, the Estes Park Planning Commission, the Larimer County Planning Commission, Habitat for Humanity and the Tree Board.  He was involved in numerous other organizations for the betterment of the community.

Amos moved to Florida due to health concerns.  Mayor Pinkham recently read a Resolution of Respect for Wendell Amos at the June 23, 2009 Town Board meeting. For more information, please call the Public Information Office at 970-577-3701.

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40,000 flowers planted for all to enjoy

July 13, 2009

Geraniums, petunias, nicotiana, impatiens, marigolds, salvia and cosmos are just a few types of flowers planted by the Town of Estes Park’s flower crew each year.  Not to mention the perennials -- Shasta daisy, echinacea, daylily, ornamental grass, oriental poppy, catmint, salvia and columbine.  Around 40,000 of them are planted each summer for the enjoyment of Estes Park residents and visitors. 

Eleven people comprise the flower crew but additional help is required from all employees of the Parks Department.  In all, five full-time and 18 seasonal employees keep the community looking vibrant and beautiful. 

Keri Iverson, who oversees the flower crew operations, commented on the process. “We plant, fertilize, weed, deadhead and do all the maintenance on about 65 flower beds throughout the community.”   The crew also cares for 22 oversized flower pots which are scattered at locations around Town.

Liquid Fence is the key to keeping elk, deer and small animals from eating the flowers.  It’s an organic substance with an offensive smell to animals.

The Parks Department is responsible for the maintenance, renovation and management of all Town-owned park land.  It maintains its own greenhouse, ten acres of turf, 28 irrigation systems, several bronze sculptures and many landscape projects.  The staff cares for the grounds of the Estes Park Museum, the Senior Center, Stanley Park Fairgrounds, the Estes Park Volunteer Fire Department and adjacent Bureau of Reclamation property, the Light and Power Building and the entrance to the Stanley Historic District.  For more information on the Town of Estes Park Parks Department, please call 970-577-3588 or visit www.estes.org/publicworks.

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Town survey seeks community input on Bond Park redesign

July 13, 2009

The Town of Estes Park has initiated a process to consider a thoughtful redesign of Bond Park in an effort to make it a more user-friendly space for residents and visitors. The process to develop design concepts for Bond Park will be open to the public and transparent, and the Town is seeking significant community input to get the design process initiated.

The Town invites the community to take a short survey about Bond Park by visiting the Town’s website at www.estes.org and clicking on the “Bond Park Planning” link on the left side of the page.  Another link will direct visitors to the survey, which takes approximately 5 minutes to complete.  The survey will be available until July 27, 2009.

Information about the Bond Park redesign will be available on the website noted above, and the Town will continue to keep the community updated on future opportunities to be involved in the process. For more information, call the Town of Estes Park Public Works Department at 970-577-3588.

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Consider your safety:  Smoke detectors recalled

July 13, 2009

The Estes Park Volunteer Fire Department would like to notify residents of a smoke detector recall notice from the U.S. Consumer Products Safety Commission.  Kidde Model PI2000 Dual Sensor Smoke Alarms have been voluntarily recalled due to a possible electrostatic discharge that can damage the unit, disabling its ability to warn consumers of a fire.

The recalled units can be identified by date codes of “2008 Aug 01” through “2009 May 04” located on the back of the smoke alarm.  They can also be identified by two buttons, “HUSH” and “PUSH AND HOLD TO TEST WEEKLY,” which are located on the front and center of the alarm.  These units were sold in retail, department and hardware stores and through electrical distributors nationwide between August, 2008 and May, 2009. The units sold for between $30 and $40.

Customers should contact Kidde to receive a free replacement smoke alarm if they own a recalled Model PI2000 Dual Sensor Smoke Alarm.  For additional information, contact Kidde toll-free at 877-524-2086 between 8 am and 5pm Eastern Time, Monday through Friday.

Remember to test your smoke alarms regularly and change the batteries at least twice each year.  For reliability, smoke alarms should be replaced every ten years.  The Estes Park Volunteer Fire Department is available to answer questions on the recall and provide more information on smoke alarms.  Stop by the station at 901 North Saint Vrain Ave. or call 970-577-0900 between the hours of 8 a.m. and 5 p.m., Monday through Friday.  Visit the website at www.estesparkfire.com.   For emergencies, call 911.

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Participate in the International Building Codes adoption process

July 8, 2009

The Town of Estes Park Department of Building Safety is facilitating a series of public meetings to outline and discuss updates to building code standards within Town limits in compliance with the International Building Codes.  Stakeholders in the construction industry and other interested individuals are encouraged to participate in the process at future meetings. The next meeting is scheduled for 3 p.m. on Thursday, July 16 in the Town Board Room at Town Hall, located at 170 MacGregor Avenue.

There will be two primary topics of discussion.  The first is an update of contractor licensing requirements by Larimer County and a discussion about potential contractor licensing in Estes Park Town limits.  The second is a review of proposed local amendments to the 2009 International Building Code and 2009 International Residential Code. 

Individuals interested in receiving e-mail notifications for this series of meetings should contact Connie Bowser at cbowser@estes.org or 970-577-3735. For more information on the International Code adoption process, resources and training opportunities, please visit the Town website at www.estes.org /comdev.

Free Contractor Licensing Training

The Town of Estes Park will offer a free contractor licensing training at the Estes Park Conference Center on Wednesday, August 5, 2009 from 8:00 a.m. until 4:30 pm. This training will benefit contractors doing work in the county who will soon be required to obtain a county license.  It will include a review of the 2006 International Building and Residential Codes as they pertain to Contractor Licensing/Certification Tests. The registration fee of $35.00 will be waived for all individuals who RSVP to Gill Rossmiller at grossmiller@parkeronline.org by Friday, July 31, 2009.

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Town Clerk receives EPURA petition

July 8, 2009

On July 8, Town Clerk Jackie Williamson received a petition from proponents William Van Horn and Larry Pesses regarding the Estes Park Urban Renewal Authority (EPURA).  The proposed initiated measure is summarized as “The Initiated Ordinance abolishes the Estes Park Urban Renewal Authority and before the creation of any new Urban Renewal Authority requires the approval of the same at an election.”

The Clerk’s office will proceed to verify the petition before issuing a statement indicating if a sufficient number of valid voter signatures were present.  The statement of sufficiency shall be issued no later than 30 days from July 8. 

If the petition is determined to be valid, the Town Board will proceed within 20 days with one of two options.  The Board can choose to adopt the proposed ordinance or order the ordinance to a regular or special election held not less than 60 days and not more than 150 days after the final determination of petition sufficiency. 

EPURA is an independent governmental entity established by the Town of Estes Park in 1983 to plan and implement physical improvements to enhance the Estes Park community and economy.  For more information on EPURA, please visit www.estes.org/EPURA.

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Subscribe to receive Town news and meeting agendas by e-mail

July 8, 2009

Town of Estes Park news and committee meeting agendas are now available by e-mail subscription.  For more information or to join a list, email spetrie@estes.org.  Current news is available 24 hours a day at the Town’s website News Desk, www.estes.org/pressreleases.   For more information, please call the Public Information Office at 970-577-3701.

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The Community Profile for 2009 is now available

July 7, 2009

Each year, the Town of Estes Park produces the Community Profile, a publication that includes a wide array of up-to-date statistics and organizational contacts for the Estes valley. New and long-term residents as well as visitors will find the compilation of information both helpful and interesting. 

The Community Profile can be viewed at www.estes.org/CommunityInfo/CommunityProfile.pdf.  Print copies are available outside the Finance Department service windows on the main floor of Town Hall, located at 170 MacGregor Avenue, and at the Estes Park Convention & Visitors Bureau, 500 Big Thompson Avenue.

Readers will find details such as demographics, construction, visitation, housing, climate and community resources such as cultural and educational institutions, utilities, major employers, media organizations, medical services, government agencies, parks and recreation and much more.  For more information, please call the Public Information Office at 970-577-3701.

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Public Works Director Scott Zurn certified by the Association of State Floodplain Managers

July 7, 2009

The Town of Estes Park now has a new Certified Floodplain Manager (CFM) according to the Association of State Floodplain Managers, Inc. (ASFPM).  Scott Zurn, Director of Public Works since 2007, has completed the process and examination to be a CFM.   Director Zurn’s responsibilities as Town Engineer include Estes Park streets, parks, facilities and fleet services. 

Zurn commented on the certification process, “Keeping current on preserving our natural resources and preventing loss of life and property is a high priority for the Public Works Department.”  He continued, “Proper management of our rivers and floodways helps prevent these losses and ensures the most affordable insurance rates for our community.” 

Zurn is one of two Certified Floodplain Managers employed by the Town.  Chief Building Official Will Birchfield also maintains certification through ASFPM.

The ASFPM certification program ensures that highly qualified individuals are available to meet the challenge of breaking the flood damage cycle and stopping its negative drain on the nation’s human, financial and natural resources.  ASFPM is a respected voice in floodplain management practice and policy in the United States as it represents the flood hazard specialists of local, state and federal government, the research community, the insurance industry, and the fields of engineering, hydrologic forecasting, emergency response, water resources and others.

For more information about the Town of Estes Park Public Works Department, please call 970-577-3588.

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Watch the official Estes Park film at www.estes.org

July 1, 2009

The Town of Estes Park has produced a new 12-minute film featuring Estes Park as a destination and a great place to call “home.”   Estes Park:  A Great Place to Visit, A Great Place to Live can be viewed here.   Free copies of the DVD are also available in the Administration office (Room 150) of Town Hall, located at 170 MacGregor Avenue. 

The original concept of Town staff was to produce an educational film for the Town’s annual Citizens Information Academy, which is a behind-the-scenes class looking at the operations, programs and services of the Estes Park government.  In addition, Estes Park Mayor Bill Pinkham saw the opportunity to reach prospective residents by highlighting the amenities Estes Park offers to those who reside here.  The two ideas came together to produce a comprehensive guided tour of Estes Park on film.

“We wanted to produce a film that tells why Estes Park is a great place to live,” commented Town Administrator Jacquie Halburnt.  “Our Convention & Visitors Bureau does a fantastic job of promoting EP to visitors – so we focused on a piece that also highlights our great government, school, library, hospital and recreation.”

Mayor Bill Pinkham commended Town staff for coming up with the initial idea, saying “the production of the film is very timely – it’s useful in terms of showing off our community to visitors and potential residents.”  Pinkham continued, “It’s a great tool for community organizations and businesses to attract working families and professions to the Estes valley.”

The film features not only Town programs and services, but also those of Park School District R-3, Estes Park Public Library, Estes Park Medical Center, Rocky Mountain National Park, the Estes Park Urban Renewal Authority and others.  It also highlights the aspects of the community that are attractive to residents as well as visitors including nature and scenery, unique shops and restaurants, lodging, recreation, entertainment and proximity to urban areas. 

Estes Park:  A Great Place to Visit, A Great Place to Live was produced by the Town of Estes Park through the services of Nick Mollé Productions, with writing by Steve Mitchell and narration by J Halburnt.  For more information, please call 970-577-3701.

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Saving fuel and connecting with the community: Estes Park Police step onto Segways

June 30, 2009

“The biggest advantage of patrolling Estes Park on Segways is the positive interaction we have with people,” Estes Park Police Sergeant Robert Schumaker commented as he examined a new all-terrain Segway x2 Patroller.  “People are curious about these things and it gives us a chance to talk with them about something fun.” 

On Sunday, June 28 Rocky Mountain Segway of Boulder visited the Estes Park Police Department to demonstrate capabilities of the newest two-wheel, self-balancing human transporters – now outfitted with red and blue lights, reflective shields and other specialized features available to police officers. 

In 2005, the Estes Park Police became the first in Colorado to patrol on Segways.  Because of this experience, Rocky Mountain Segway sought the Department’s input on the new Patroller features.  The Estes Park Police Department has two Segways and will consider purchasing a Segway x2 Patroller when a replacement is necessary.

In addition to getting out of a patrol car to be among the people, Schumaker noted numerous other advantages of patrolling Estes Park on these devices.  “We go places we can’t in cars, we can see over people as we move through crowds and we can cover five times the area that we could while walking.”  All this is possible because of the Segway’s elevated standing platform, narrow width, all-terrain tires and the ability to navigate up to a 36-degree grade.

Segway patrol is also a “green” effort of the Department to reduce emissions during community policing.  With zero-emissions during operation, a Segway is 11 times more efficient than the average American car with 1/16th the cost of operation.  X2 Patroller models can travel up to 12 miles at 12.5 miles per hour on a single charge of the lithium ion batteries.  The cost to recharge the drained batteries is about 10 cents. 

In Estes Park, Segway riders are subject to the same laws as bicyclists under the Municipal Code. The devices can be driven on streets and specified trails.  For reasons of public safety, police officers on Segways are allowed access anywhere needed.  For more information on Segway patrol, call the Estes Park Police Department at 970-577-4000.

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Meeting the Challenge:  Town distributes 2008 Water Quality Report

June 26, 2009

The Town of Estes Park Water Department mailed the newly-released Annual Water Quality Report to all water customers this week.  The report includes information on the Town’s water source, treatment facilities, health information and sampling results from January through December of 2008. 

The Water Quality Report is available on the Town’s website at www.estes.org/lightpower/waterdefault.aspx.  Copies are also available at the following locations: Town Hall at 170 MacGregor Avenue; Town of Estes Park Water Department at 577 Elm Road; Estes Park Medical Center at 555 Prospect Avenue; Larimer County Health Department at 1601 Brodie Avenue.

Approximately 6600 customers are served by the Town Water Department, which operates with a capacity of 4 million gallons per day.  With ten employees, the department maintains water treatment facilities, more than 100 miles of distribution lines and 662 fire hydrants.  To learn more, the public is encouraged to attend meetings of the Utilities Committee the second Thursday of each month at 8:00 a.m. in the Town Board Room of Town Hall, located at 170 MacGregor Avenue.  For more information call 970-577-3588. 

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Join Mayor Pinkham to chat over coffee

June 25, 2009

Mayor Bill Pinkham would like to invite the community to his monthly community meeting, Coffee-Chat with the Mayor.  The next Coffee-Chat is Wednesday, July 1, 2009, at 8:00 a.m. at the Estes Park Senior Center, 220 Fourth Street.  Free coffee and cinnamon rolls will be provided.

These meetings allow the public to meet with Town officials in an informal atmosphere for an open discussion of local projects, issues, concerns, ideas and opinions. Coffee-Chats with the Mayor will continue to take place the first Wednesday of each month at 8:00 a.m. at the Senior Center. For more information call 970-577-3701.

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Estes Park Fire Station 2 recognized by the Insurance Services Office

June 25, 2009 

In the United States, fire is the single largest cause of property loss, injuring more than 20,000 people each year.  And each year, building fires kill 3,000 people.  A community committed to saving lives and property needs trained firefighters, proper equipment and adequate water supplies. Estes Park has been recognized by the Insurance Services Office, Inc. (ISO) for meeting these needs and increasing fire protection services for the community.

ISO has recognized Estes Park Volunteer Fire Department Station 2 at 1810 Mills Drive.  Properties located on the west side of Estes Park that are more than five driving miles from Dannels Fire Station on North Saint Vrain Avenue may have received an improved ISO rating.  Property owners are encouraged to consult their insurance providers to determine any applicable rate changes. 

ISO’s Public Protection Classification (PPC) program recognizes the efforts of Estes Park to provide fire protection services for citizens and property owners by evaluating and rating fire protection services.  The up-to-date information enables insurance companies to establish appropriate fire insurance premiums for residential and commercial properties.  ISO’s PPC ratings range from 1 to 10, where Class 1 indicates superior property fire protection and Class 10 indicates a fire suppression program that does not meet ISO’s minimum criteria. 

Estes Park received a Class 4 rating for structures within five driving miles of Station 2 on Mills Drive.  Structures in this area that were also more than five miles from the Dannels Station were previously rated Class 10. The existing Class 4 rating for structures within five miles of the Dannels Station remains in place. ISO reevaluates every ten years, and in order to maintain PPC ratings, Estes Park must maintain public fire protection services.  Improvements may result in an improved PPC rating.

The PPC rating depends on: Fire alarm and communication systems including telephones, telephone lines, staffing and dispatching systems; Fire department equipment, staffing, training and geographic distribution of fire companies; Water supply including the condition and maintenance of hydrants and the amount of available water compared with the amount needed to suppress fires.

For further information on the Estes Park Volunteer Fire Department, call 970-577-0900 or visit www.estesparkfire.com.  For emergencies, call 911.

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Free Shuttles Hit the Road Saturday Morning

June 25, 2009 

Two new cut-a-way vehicles holding 14 riders, a new cut-a-way bus accommodating 25 people, and an expanded service route will greet Free Estes Park Shuttle riders when the service begins operating on Saturday morning. The daily service begins Saturday, June 27 and continues through Aug. 30.

Riders can board or get off the shuttles at locations designated by shuttle stop signage along Fall River Road, Big Thompson Avenue, Marys Lake Road, Colorado Highway 66, Moraine Avenue and Elkhorn Avenue. Route maps are available throughout town at lodging properties and at retail stores on Elkhorn Avenue and the Estes Park Visitors Center.

Several lodging facilities are pick-up points on Big Thompson Avenue before the Blue Route shuttle heads downtown for eastbound stops in front of Rocky Mountain Traders, Barlow Plaza and the Estes Park Visitors Center.

The Red Route shuttle stops at Town Hall before turning north to the bypass and then west on Fall River Road. After stopping at the Fall River Visitor Center, the Red Route shuttle returns to town, periodically stopping on the South side of Elkhorn Ave. and ending at the Estes Park Visitors Center.

Both the Blue and Red Routes are 30-minute rides from start to finish and will operate daily from June 27 through Aug. 30 and every weekend in September. First shuttle of the day on the Blue and Red Routes leaves the Estes Park Visitors Center at 10 a.m.; the last shuttle of the day departs from the Visitors Center at 7:30 p.m.

Marys Lake Lodge is the southwestern Brown Route’s first stop. Other selected Marys Lake Road facilities are included as pick-up points before the shuttles head west on Colorado Hwy. 66. The YMCA – Estes Park Center is included as a stop on the Brown Route which is an hour-long ride from beginning to end. The Brown Route will be operated June 27 through Aug. 30 and the first two weekends in September (Sept. 5, 6, 12 and 13). The first Brown Route shuttle of the day leaves the Estes Park Visitors Center at 10 a.m.; the last shuttle of the day leaves the Visitors Center at 7 p.m.

This will be the fourth year free shuttle service has been provided by the Town of Estes Park, although this is the first year of operations using vehicles that have been leased by the Town. During the first three experimental years of operations, the National Park shared its fleet with the Town. Cost of operations, including the vehicle leases, is budgeted for $225,009 this summer.

Also beginning operations this weekend is Rocky Mountain National Park’s express “Hiker Shuttle.”  The Hiker Shuttle operates from the Town of Estes Park Visitors Center to the Park’s Beaver Meadows Visitor Center and continues to the Park & Ride.  The Hiker Shuttle operates daily from June 27 through Sept. 7. The Hiker Shuttle operates weekends only during the remainder of September. The first Hiker Shuttle bus leaves the Town of Estes Park Visitors Center at 6:30 a.m. and the last bus will leave the Park & Ride bound for Estes Park at 8 p.m. on all scheduled days.

The Hiker Shuttle will run on an hourly schedule early and late in the day; switching to a half hour schedule during the peak of the day (10 a.m. to 6 p.m.). A park pass will be required to board the bus.  The last bus of the day that returns to the park will leave the Estes Park Visitors Center at 7:30 p.m.

For more information about shuttle operations, contact the Estes Park Convention & Visitors Bureau at 970-577-9900 or visit www.estesparkcvb.com. For information about Rocky Mountain National Park’s Hiker Shuttle, call 970-586-1206.

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Town Board and Local Marketing District Board will meet June 30

June 24, 2009

The Estes Park Town Board and the Local Marketing District (LMD) Board will hold a joint study session on Tuesday, June 30 at 4:00 p.m. in Room 130 of Town Hall, located at 170 MacGregor Avenue.  The focus of the study session will be the LMD operating plan.  The public is welcome to attend, though there will be no public comment period. 

The Town Board could not be present at the Tuesday, June 23 LMD meeting due to schedule conflicts for some Trustees.  The Town felt it was important to have full Town Board representation for the joint meeting. For more information, call 970-577-3701. 

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Annual Safety Fair raises community awareness

June 24, 2009 

On Saturday, May 30, approximately 550 people enjoyed the activities of the Safety Fair at the Stanley Park Fairgrounds.  The free annual event is organized by the Estes Park Police Department and serves to educate the public on safety skills and awareness.  The event began as the Police Department’s Bike Rodeo in 1993, with officers providing bike and pedestrian safety education to children.  Attendance was approximately 25 children in 1993.  The Bike Rodeo evolved to today’s Safety Fair

The Estes Park Volunteer Fire Department assisted the Police Department with organization of this year’s event.  Highlights included hot air balloon tethered rides, medical helicopter cockpit tours, SWAT vehicle tours, fire safety demonstrations,  K-9 demonstrations, bicycle helmet giveaways, bicycle tune-ups , car seat safety demonstrations, free food and drinks and much more.  The Estes Park Police Department would like to thank the sponsors and participants for making this successful community event possible.

Sponsors included the Boulder Valley Credit Union, PACK, First National Bank of Estes Park, Rent-All, Wal-Mart, Bank of Colorado, Chicago’s Best, Estes Park Aquatic Center, Waste Management, Barlow Plaza, Estes Park Family Medical Clinic, Ice of Estes, Estes Park 18 Hole Golf Course, Estes Park Fairgrounds, Lithium, Star Video, Poppy’s Pizza and Grill, Reel Mountain Theatre, Estes Park Recreation Center, Estes Park News, Estes Park Trail Gazette, Estes Park High School Cheerleaders, Estes Park Holiday Inn, Salvation Army, Crossroads Ministry, Estes Valley Restorative Justice Partnership, Estes Park Safeway, Estes Park Re/Max Realty, Casa Grande, Estes Valley Recreation District, Estes Park Car Club, Estes Park Police Department Auxiliary and many individual contributors.

Participating organizations included the Estes Park Police Department, the Estes Park Volunteer Fire Department, Rocky Mountain National Park Rangers, Estes Park Medical Center Ambulance, Northern Colorado Med Evac, Air Life St. Anthony’s Hospital, Colorado Department of Wildlife, Larimer County Parks & Open Land, Fort Collins Police Department, Colorado State University Police Department, United States Forest Service, Pinewood Springs Fire Department, Glen Haven Fire Department, Allenspark Fire Department, Big Elk Meadows Fire Department, Larimer County Search & Rescue, Larimer County Sheriff’s Office, Larimer Emergency Telephone Authority, Loveland Police Department, Timberline Medical Clinic and Crossroads Ministry.

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Municipal offices closed on July 3

June 23, 2009

In observance of Independence Day on July 4, Town of Estes Park offices will close on Friday, July 3.  Normal operating hours will resume on Monday, July 6.  For more information, call 970-577-3701. 

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Estes Valley Planning Commission begins evening meetings July 21

June 23, 2009

In response to requests from residents who could not attend afternoon meetings, the monthly Estes Valley Planning Commission meetings will now be held in the evening.  Beginning with the July 21 meeting, the Planning Commission will meet at 6:00 p.m. on the third Tuesday of each month in the Board Room of the Town Hall, located at 170 MacGregor Avenue in Estes Park.

The Planning Commission reviews development and subdivision proposals for the Estes valley.  Each meeting begins with an opportunity for residents to address the Planning Commission on any general topic of interest.

The Planning Commission will hold study sessions prior to the 6:00 p.m. meetings, as needed.  Study session times and topics are dependent on the current agenda.  Information including agendas and minutes may be found on the Town of Estes Park website at www.estesnet.com/comdev/evpc.aspx.   For more information, please contact the Community Development Department at 970-577-3721.

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Be safe around swift water

June 16, 2009

With the arrival of warmer weather, rivers are rising and flowing faster.  Although they can be unsafe any time of year, they are especially treacherous now.  Adults can easily be swept off of their feet and into the water where hidden hazards lie under the surface.  Hypothermia sets in quickly with low water temperatures.  Swift water poses the greatest risk to children.

Here are several basic safety precautions to take when fishing, boating or walking along rivers. 

• Keep an eye on children; do not let them play near riverbanks or in the water. 
• When fishing, pick a firm location to stand along the shore.  When wading, be very aware of the current, its strength and objects downstream. 
• When boating, wear a life vest and helmet; avoid dams, low-clearance bridges, abutments and other unnatural structures.
• If you fall into the water, try to swim away from trouble.  If the stream is deep enough, float on your back with your head upstream, using your legs to push yourself away from large rocks.  If the river contains logs, brush or other debris, float on your stomach with your head downstream; use your arms to pull yourself up and over dangerous objects in the water.
• Know your limits and be aware of your surroundings and the location of other members of your party. 
• Call 911 for the assistance of the Estes Park Volunteer Fire Department and Dive Team. 

For more information contact the Estes Park Volunteer Fire Department at 970-577-0900 between the hours of 8:00 a.m. and 5:00 p.m., Monday through Friday.  Please visit www.estesparkfire.com.

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Estes Park Volunteer Fire Department supports Fire Protection District

June 11, 2009

Estes Park Mayor Bill Pinkham and the Board of Trustees were presented with a letter from the members of the Estes Park Volunteer Fire Department (EPVFD) stating their support for the development of the Estes Valley Fire Protection District. Members of the EPVFD voted in favor of forming a district that would encompass the existing response area.  

The mission of the Estes Park Volunteer Fire Department is to provide the people of the Estes valley with fire prevention, fire protection and other emergency services in a safe and efficient manner.  The EPVFD members declared, “The mission cannot be accomplished without support of the community to provide the required equipment and apparatus, the dedication of the volunteers to train and respond to all emergencies, and an adequate and stable funding structure.” 

The volunteers stated that a Fire District is “the best option to continue providing the community the services it has come to expect and to prepare for future challenges.”  The EPVFD members also expressed support of the Fire District Service Plan.

The Fire Services Initiative Committee received the approval of the County Commissioners for the Fire District Service Plan at a May 18 public hearing. The Committee will now begin campaigning for voter support of the Estes Valley Fire Protection District. 

Currently, residents outside the Town limits may choose to pay a subscription fee for fire services; non-subscribers are directly billed for services provided.  As Estes Park Town Administrator Jacquie Halburnt stated, “The short-term solution is county charges for fire services; the long-term solution is a Fire District.” Subscription fees and direct billing will be unnecessary if voters approve the Fire Protection District in November. 

For more information, please call 970-577-3701.  Please visit the Estes Park Volunteer Fire Department website.

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Free parking available at more than 30 locations across town

June 10, 2009

Public parking areas in Estes Park include free parking lots and on-street parking with all-day, three-hour and 30-minute time allowances.  Drivers should refer to parking lot signs for site-specific information and exceptions. The Town of Estes Park produces free parking maps which are available in containers placed on poles at public parking lot entrances. Parking areas are patrolled daily. 

Free all-day parking is allowed at the following locations:  Moraine lot at 185 Moraine Ave.; Big Horn lot at 101 Cleave St.; Visitor Center (CVB) lot at 500 Big Thompson Ave.; Estes Park Conference Center lot at 201 S. Saint Vrain Ave.; Davis lot at 283 Moraine Ave.; Fisherman’s Nook at 339 Lake Front St.; Spruce Drive lot at 261 Cleave St.; Town Hall lot at 343 E. Elkhorn Ave.; Performance Park lot at 311 W. Elkhorn Ave.; Fairgrounds at Stanley Park lot at 1209 Manford Ave.; Senior Center lot at 220 4^th St.;  Visitor Center (CVB) South lot off of N. St. Vrain Ave.; Tregent Park lot at 291 W. Elkhorn Ave.; W. Riverside Dr. and Park at 260 W. Riverside Dr.; Wiest lot at 150 Wiest St.; on-street parking along Big Horn Dr. and Cleave St.   

Free three-hour parking is allowed at the following locations:  352 E. Elkhorn Ave. adjacent to Brownfield’s; Virginia lot at 147 Virginia Dr.; Riverside lot at 141 Rockwell St.; E. Riverside lot adjacent to Dairy Queen at 110 E. Riverside Dr.; Post Office lot at 20 W. Riverside Dr.; on-street parking along the 100-300 blocks of E. Elkhorn Ave.; on-street parking along the 100-200 blocks of W. Elkhorn Ave.; on-street parking along Virginia Dr., Park Ln. and Moraine Dr.

Free 30-minute parking is allowed at specific spaces in the Post Office lot at 20 W Riverside Dr. and on-street parking is allowed along E. Riverside Dr.

For more information, please contact the Estes Park Police Department at 970-586-4000.

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Town Trustees meet with Estes Valley Planning Commission and County Commissioners

June 10, 2009

The Town of Estes Park Board of Trustees held a public meeting with the Estes Valley Planning Commission (EVPC) and the Larimer County Commissioners on June 4, 2009 at the Estes Park Convention Center.  The meeting included a presentation from Town’s Community Development Director Bob Joseph which outlined current issues facing the Estes Valley Planning Commission and the Town Board.  These issues include wildlife habitat, open space and accessory dwelling units.  After further study of the issues, the Planning Commission will recommend revisions to the Estes Valley Development Code to the Town Board.

The meeting discussion also focused on the processes used by the EVPC and the Town Board to identify problems and solutions related to the Development Code.  Revisions to the jointly-adopted code are considered and adopted through a public hearing process that is held before the respective elected boards, with each acting independently.

EVPC Chair Doug Klink said, “The June 4 meeting gave us an opportunity to learn from the experiences of the County Commissioners and the County Planning Commission in dealing with the same issues. “  Klink also emphasized the need to refine the process the EVPC and the Town Board follow to define problems affecting code changes in order to find the most effective solution.  He noted, “In connecting with the Town Board we were able to identify a number of ways to improve communications and we will be actively working to do that.” 

The proposed process, to be defined at upcoming meetings, will include regular meetings of the Town Board and the EVPC during periods of code revisions.  The two groups will also devise and agree upon problem statements in order to define the issues prior to commencing the code revision process.

Larimer County Commissioner Kathay Rennels stated, “I think the Planning Commission and the Trustees are making a wise move in meeting on a more regular basis. While they are separate boards, the relationship and clarity will help them and the citizens become one body.”  Rennels continued, “While not always agreeing, knowing the discussion and why decisions were made goes a long way in coming to consensus.”  

Estes Park Mayor Bill Pinkham commented, “We have an excellent group of people on the Estes Valley Planning Commission oriented toward process improvement and improving communications with the Town Board to minimize complexity and ensure a common focus on the issues.”  Mayor Pinkham noted, “There is a great commitment between the two boards to put in the time and effort to doing a good job for the community.“

The Estes Valley Planning Commission meets on the third Tuesday of the month at 1:30 p.m. in the Board Room of the Town Hall, located at 170 MacGregor Avenue. Each meeting begins with an opportunity for residents to address the Planning Commission on any general topic of interest.

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Safeway fueling station application under review

June 9, 2009

Safeway Inc. has submitted a development plan application and statement of intent to the Town of Estes Park Community Development Department for construction of a new fueling facility at 621 Big Thompson Avenue.  The site is currently that of Silver Lane Stables. 

The proposed facility would include a 1,185 square foot kiosk or convenience store and a 6,075 square foot overhead canopy above 6 multiple-product fuel dispensers and a future 1,275 square foot single-bay automatic car wash.  The facility would be owned and operated by Safeway Inc. and will function as a department of the existing Safeway grocery store.  Current plans call for the fuel facility to open in July 2010 and a car wash to open within an additional three years.

The development plan application is scheduled to be reviewed at staff-level with a decision no later than July 21, 2009. Under the Estes Valley Development Code section 3.8, the plan is subject to review by Town staff rather than the Estes Valley Planning Commission because it includes fewer than 21 parking spaces, fewer than 10,000 square feet in construction of gross floor area and fewer than 10,000 square feet in other major alterations to the premises which may include parking spaces, water, sewer, drainage and lighting.

Safeway Inc. has also submitted an application for variance from section 5.1.Q.4.a of the Estes Valley Development Code, which states that service stations shall be located at least 100 feet from the property boundary of any residential zoning district. The lot shares a boundary with a lot in the Stanley Hills Subdivision, which is zoned R-Residential.  Per the Stanley Hills subdivision plat, this open space lot is to be held for future dedicated roadway.

The variance application is scheduled to be reviewed by the Board of Adjustment at the July 7 meeting, scheduled for 9:00 a.m. in the Town Board Room of Town Hall, located at 170 MacGregor Avenue.

Both the development plan and variance applications may be viewed on the Community Development Department website. The complete applications are on file in the Community Development office and are available for public review.  Further, public comments will be accepted in the following ways: 

• E-mail achilcott@estes.org
• Call 970-577-3720
• Deliver your comments in person to Room 210 in Town Hall, located at 170 MacGregor Ave.
• Write the Town of Estes Park Community Development Department and mail to P.O. Box 1200, Estes Park, CO 80517.
• You may also comment on the variance application in person at the Estes Valley Board of Adjustment  meeting.

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Town holds public meetings for International Building Codes adoption process

June 9, 2009

The Town of Estes Park Department of Building Safety is facilitating a series of public meetings to outline and discuss updates to building code standards within Town limits in compliance with the International Building Codes.  Five meetings have been held to date. Stakeholders in the construction industry and other interested individuals are encouraged to participate in the process at future meetings. The next meetings are scheduled for 3:00 – 5:00 p.m. on June 18, July 16 and July 23 in the Town Board Room at Town Hall, located at 170 MacGregor Avenue.

Town staff recommends adoption of eight specific 2009 International Codes, with amendments. At each meeting, Chief Building Official, Will Birchfield, facilitates a presentation and discussion of significant changes and proposed amendments as they relate to local concerns.  Attendees are invited to participate in the discussions and provide feedback regarding current policies and procedures in addition to proposed changes.

Individuals interested in receiving e-mail notifications for this series of meetings should contact Connie Bowser at cbowser@estes.org or 970-577-3735. For more information on the International Codes Adoption process, resources and training opportunities, please click here.

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Town water is safe

June 9, 2009

Town of Estes Park water customers may notice a slight yellow or green tint to water when filling a white sink or bathtub.  The water does not pose any health hazards.  Extensive quality testing performed by the Town verifies the water complies with all State and Environmental Protection Agency standards.

The discolored water occurs with the natural breakdown of organic matter during the winter, and carries down during the spring snowmelt, or runoff.  The color-causing compounds are typically humic or fulvic acids that are derived from plants in the watershed that die and slowly breakdown and dissolve in water.  These organic compounds do not impact the safety of the drinking water.  This soluble color is typically removed through the water treatment process by chemical coagulation followed by sedimentation and filtration.

During current upgrade and expansion of the Mary’s Lake Water Treatment Plant, the Town is utilizing temporary treatment units for production of water from this site to satisfy the community’s water production demands. These temporary units do not use chemical coagulation prior to the membrane filtration and can allow for the dissolved color to carry through to the customers.

Spring runoff conditions are expected to continue approximately two more weeks. The Town apologizes for any inconvenience or concern that this situation has caused for water customers.  Upon completion, the Mary’s Lake Water Treatment Plant process will combine all the necessary chemical treatment for removal of naturally occurring organic compounds by coagulation and will utilize membrane filtration to produce exceptionally high quality water.

For more information, please call 970-577-3588.

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Town invites public comment on Prospect Avenue reconstruction design

June 5, 2009

The Town of Estes Park Public Works Department is proposing a design to reconstruct a 2,500-foot section of Prospect Avenue.  A public forum will be held on Wednesday, June 17 from 5:00 until 6:00 p.m. in Room 203 of the Town Hall, located at 170 MacGregor Avenue in Estes Park. Cornerstone Engineering and Surveying, the project consultant, will present a completed preliminary design for public review, questions and comments. 

The proposed reconstruction would begin at the intersection with Stanley Avenue and continue west to Ouray Drive.  Construction would begin in September of 2009 with work completed in approximately fourteen weeks.  The project would include widening the road, curbing and sidewalk additions, reconfiguration of side street intersections, improvements to drainage and burying overhead power lines along Prospect Avenue.

In order to maintain two-way automobile traffic at all times during the road closure, a full detour is currently planned along High Street, which runs parallel to Prospect Avenue from Aspen Avenue west to the Estes Park Medical Center.   All entrances to the Medical Center will remain open. 

Locally referred to as part of the Moccasin Bypass, Prospect Avenue has an average daily traffic in excess of 5,000 vehicles.  The average daily traffic is expected to reach 8,000 vehicles over the next 20 years. With current and projected traffic and pedestrian volume along Prospect Avenue, the Town of Estes Park has targeted the roadway for major capital improvements as part of its Street Improvement Program.

For further information on the proposed project, please attend the June 17 public meeting or contact Cornerstone Engineering at 586-2458. 

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Slash drop-off site closed

The Town of Estes Park slash drop-off site is now closed; no further tree limbs can be accepted.  The site, located on the west side of the Fairgrounds at Stanley Park, was available through May for citizens to drop tree limbs broken during the spring snowstorms.  The Town is currently proceeding to dispose of the slash.

For further information, please contact the Fairgrounds at Stanley Park at 970-586-6104.

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Town restores weather-beaten Bond Park

June 3, 2009 

Historic Bond Park, Estes Park's treasured downtown open space, is on the mend.  On Monday, June 1, the Town of Estes Park Public Works department closed the park to begin clearing and re-sodding the grounds after rain and festival traffic reduced large portions of the lawn to mud over the Memorial Day weekend.

Weather permitting, the sod will be laid by Wednesday, June 10.  Bond Park will remain closed to public traffic until Friday, June 19 in order to allow the new grass to establish roots.  Additionally, the top soil will be fertilized to encourage quick downward growth of the roots. 

A Town-owned property, Bond Park has been a central gathering place for Estes Park residents and visitors for decades.  The park was the venue for 27 community events in 2008 with the participation of more than 80,000 people.   It will be the setting for approximately the same number of events in 2009.  Prior to becoming open space, it was a playground for children attending the adjacent first school and later was the site for facilities including the post office, the fire hall, the library and the chamber of commerce.  

For further on the information contact the Estes Park Public Works Department at 970-577-3588.  

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Estes Park volunteer firefighters honored for outstanding service

June 3, 2009

The Estes Park Volunteer Fire Department held its annual Appreciation Night dinner on Thursday, May 28 at the Dunraven Inn.  Each year at the event, the Fire Department honors the firefighters’ spouses and significant others with gratitude for their personal sacrifices and continuous support of the firefighters.  The event is also a time of recognition for the achievements of the volunteer firefighters during the previous year and throughout their service career.  

Captain Bo Winslow was voted “Officer of the Year” for 2008 by the firefighters.  Firefighter Justin Kearney was voted “Firefighter of the Year” for 2008 by the officers. 

Awards were presented to several volunteer firefighters in recognition of their years of service and dedication to the community. Compared to the national average length of volunteer firefighter service, which is three years, the Estes Park volunteer firefighters demonstrate outstanding longevity.  A thirty-year pin was awarded to Assistant Chief Daryl McCown. Twenty-year pins were awarded to Assistant Chief Robert Hirning and Lieutenant Mike Claypool.  Ten-year pins were awarded to firefighters Kelly Wilkerson, Zachary Heath and Lieutenant John Grasso.  Five-year pins were awarded to firefighters Jeff Barker, Don Patterson, Mike Richardson, as well as Diver Jeff Hemstreet and Chaplain Father Gregory.

The Estes Park Volunteer Fire Department team includes 38 firefighters and nine divers, five of whom are also firefighters.  In 2008, the team volunteered 7,622 hours including 2,718 hours in response to 414 different incident calls.  The volunteers also spent more than 3,000 hours training during 2008.

For further information contact the Estes Park Volunteer Fire Department at 970-577-0900 or visit www.estesparkfire.com. For emergencies, call 911.

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Municipal offices closed on Memorial Day

May 21, 2009

The Town of Estes Park municipal offices will be closed on Monday, May 25 in observance of Memorial Day.  Offices will resume normal operating hours on Tuesday, May 26. 

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A New Voice for the Town of Estes Park:  Kate Rusch will serve as Public Information Officer

May 19, 2009

The Town of Estes Park has established a new position for the management of communications with the community and within the organization. Kate Rusch was selected to serve as Public Information Officer beginning on May 26, 2009. 

“We are pleased to welcome Kate Rusch to the team,” said Town Administrator Jacqueline Halburnt.  “The addition of the Public Information Officer position to the Town staff is a fundamental step toward comprehensive communications, and Kate’s experience with public outreach and her dedication to the Estes Park community make her ideal for the job.”

When asked to comment on her new position, Rusch offered, “I am excited to become the Town’s first Public Information Officer.  My efforts will be underlined by pride in this outstanding community and the programs and services offered by the Town of Estes Park. “

Public Information Officer Rusch works directly for the Town Administrator and is responsible for developing and implementing the Town’s comprehensive Communication Plan.  Using information from internal audits and community surveys, the Communication Plan will identify stakeholders in Town programs and issues, as well as their information needs and preferences, in order to refine current efforts and expand communication methods to better meet public needs.

Rusch began her service to the Town of Estes Park in January, 2007 at the Estes Park Museum.  As the Museum’s Public Information Officer and Curator of Education, she developed education and outreach programs and managed public communications.  Prior to her work with the Town, Rusch served as Assistant Director for the Missouri Parks and Recreation Association in Jefferson City, Missouri while completing her Master’s degree in 2006.  Rusch also served as the Field Seminars Director for the Rocky Mountain Nature Association in Estes Park from 2001 through 2005.  She holds undergraduate and graduate degrees from the University of Missouri - Columbia.

Rusch was selected for the position from a group of 69 applicants.  She was among 11 semi-finalists interviewed in March by a panel including Town department directors and a local public information professional.  In April, Rusch and five additional finalists were interviewed again before the decision was made.   

Rusch has lived in the Estes valley for more than eight years.  She is married to Steve Rusch, who works for the Town of Estes Park Water Department. 

The community is invited to meet Public Information Officer Rusch at the next Mayor’s Coffee Chat at 8:00 a.m. on June 3 at the Estes Park Senior Center, 220 Fourth Street.  Please call 970-577-3701 for more information.

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Shuttle Operations Begin Saturday, June 27

April 6, 2009

With the addition of service on Fall River Road, all three major highway corridors will see Free Visitor Shuttle operations this summer. June 27 has been set as the first day of operations throughout the area. Daily operations continue on the Town-operated Free visitor Shuttle through Aug. 30.

This will be the fourth year free shuttle service has been provided by the Town of Estes Park. Riding the shuttles is free, and the Estes Park Visitors Center's parking lots at the intersection of U.S. Hwys. 34 and 36 are large enough to accommodate additional cars.

Riders have the options of traveling east on Big Thompson Avenue to amusement and lodging areas, west on Fall River road to the Fall River Visitor Center, or southwest on Marys Lake Road and CO Hwy. 66. All three routes will make stops in the core downtown shopping area as well as connect with Rocky Mountain National Park's Hiker Shuttle at the Estes Park Visitors Center.

Several lodging facilities are pick-up points on Big Thompson Avenue before the Blue Route shuttle heads downtown for eastbound stops in front of Rocky Mountain Traders, Barlow Plaza and the Visitors Center. The Red Route shuttle stops at Town Hall before turning north to the bypass and then west on Fall River Road. After stopping at the Fall River Visitor Center, the Red Route shuttle heads back into town and makes stops on the south side of Elkhorn Avenue and ends at the Visitors Center. Both the blue and Red Routes are 30-minute rides from start to finish and will operate daily from June 27 through Aug. 30 and weekends in September.

Marys Lake Lodge is the southwestern route's first stop. Other selected Marys Lake Road facilities are included as pick-up points before the shuttles head west on Colorado Hwy. 66. The YMCA-Estes Park Center is included as a stop on the Brown Route which is an hour-long ride from beginning to end. The Brown Route will be operated June 27 through Aug. 30 and the first two weekends in September (Sept. 5, 6, 12 and 13.

All routes depart from the Estes Park Visitors Center and connect with Rocky Mountain National Park's Hiker Shuttle that travels from the visitors Center to the Park's Park & Ride shuttle hub on Bear Lake Road.

"We're indebted to Rocky Mountain National Park for lending us their vehicles during the first three years of our 'experiment' with shuttle operations," said Lowell Richardson, Deputy Town Administrator. "Through that, we learned that we could operate smaller vehicles that are better suited to our ridership and the physical space of our core downtown area."  Three shuttles are being leased for the summer's operations; two are smaller than what was used during the first three years of operations while one is the same size as used on the Brown Route last summer. 

The transportation program was initiated after town officials spent two years assessing systems used in other locations with consistently high seasonal traffic and limited land mass available for expanding parking. It was more than a dozen years ago that planning experts  first told Estes Park officials that a reliable public transportation system should be established during the peak visitation season.

Information about Estes Park's shuttle routes can be directed to the Estes Park Convention & Visitors Bureau at 577-9900.

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"Coffee-Chat with the Mayor" - Monthly Meetings begin in April

March 24, 2009

Please join Mayor Bill Pinkham for the first monthly community meeting, "Coffee-Chat with the Mayor", Wednesday, April 1, 2009, at 8:00 a.m. in the Senior Center meeting room, 220 Fourth Street.  Coffee and cinnamon rolls will be provided by Catering for All Occasions.

Community meetings are a great way to meet with Town officials in an informal atmosphere to discuss issues important to you.  This meeting will be an open forum to discuss local issues, concerns, ideas, share opinions, and to discuss ongoing projects around Town.

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Estes Park Joins the 2009 CAST Reusable Bag Challenge

February 2, 2009

Lead by the League of Women Voters, the Town of Estes Park will be participating in the 2009 Colorado Association of Ski Towns (CAST) Reusable Bag Challenge.  The goal is to raise awareness regarding the environmental and social costs of single-use plastic shopping bags and to promote the use of reusable shopping bags through a friendly competition between members of the Colorado Association of Ski Towns. The Challenge will run from March 1 through September 1, 2009, and the winner will be determined by which community tallies the most uses of reusable bags on a per capita basis.  CAST estimates that participating communities across Colorado could reduce the consumption of close to 7,000,000 single-use plastic bags during the Challenge.

Any commercial store that gives away single-use plastic HDPE bags (standard plastic bags) can be included in the Challenge.  It is hoped that the merchant encourages the use of reusable bags in their stores. You must also be able to somehow record reusable bag usage.  Participating merchants will receive a point-of-purchase flyer to encourage and remind shoppers to use their reusable bags.  Representatives will check in with participating stores throughout the Challenge to record reusable bag tallies.

So far in Estes Park, Safeway, Country Market, and Local Roots Co-Op have agreed to participate, and we hope you will join us in this important endeavor!  All together, at least 25 other mountain towns have agreed to be part of the challenge.  Please let us know ASAP if you are willing to participate.  To sign up or for more information, contact Irene Little at stadthaus2005@gmail.com  or Diane Burkepile at encounter1010@msn.com.

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Town Water Has No Lead or Copper in its Source Water or Distribution Lines

January 27, 2009

Customers of the Town of Estes Park water system recently received educational information regarding the potential health risk of lead in drinking water. It is important for Estes Park residents to understand that there is no lead in the source water used for treatment and there is no lead in the water being supplied to customers through our distribution system. The town of Estes Park water system consists of pipes lined with concrete or steel, which contain no lead or copper.

In Estes Park's special circumstance the source of lead in the water is lead solder used in household plumbing. Due to the corrosivity of water, over time metals used in household piping are leached into water on the customer's premises. Estes Park's source water (snow melt) is extremely pure with high oxygen content. This low-alkaline/high oxygen water is highly corrosive.

The EPA believes the potential of lead contamination in drinking water relates directly to the year which a home was built. Lead solder was banned nationwide in 1986. Homes built after that date should not be at risk. Homes constructed prior to 1980 are considered at low risk because any lead exposed to corrosive water has already been dissolved.

As a result, the EPA requires the Town of Estes Park to collect sample water from residences built between 1980 to 1986. The few homes in the community which have tested above the lead action level were built in this time frame. In addition, the water tested was a "first draw" sample collected after the water had sat un-used overnight maximizing the metal concentrations.

The notification which was mailed in late 2008 was mandated by the  EPA and was initiated because a few homes in the area tested above the "action level" for lead concentrations. However, exceeding the EPA's action level is not a drinking water violation, nor does it mean that the water is unsafe to drink.

The Lead and Copper Rule is the only regulation in the Safe Drinking Water Act which employs this action level concept. The action level for lead is 15 parts per billion and is intended as an early warning that public water systems may need to optimize their corrosion control efforts. It also provides at risk individuals, primarily infants and pregnant women, the opportunity to consider protective action.

When the original Lead and Copper Rule was implemented by the state in 1992, the Town of Estes Park began adding a corrosion inhibitor. An adjustment to this treatment process is needed periodically as pipes feeding off of the Town of Estes Park's water distribution system age. Because of the addition of a corrosion inhibitor, Town of Estes Park water customers can expect the life of their household pipes to be extended considerably.

The Town water department has implemented treatment adjustments which should re-establish optimal corrosion protection. Additional testing is being conducted to confirm the effectiveness of those adjustments. If homeowners have any concern about lead concentrations in their drinking water, the best protection is to simply let your faucets run until it becomes noticeably cooler, or 15-20 seconds, before consumption. Also, be sure to only use water from the cold tap for cooking or drinking, as heat speeds up the corrosion process.

For additional information on lead in drinking water customers may call the Town of Estes Park water department at 970-577-3619.

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