Title
A resolution adopting the North Nevada/University of Colorado, Colorado Springs Economic Opportunity Zone Task Force Findings and Recommendations, for strategic planning purposes.
(Legislative)
Presenter:
Peter Wysocki, Planning and Community Development Director
Carl Schueler, Comprehensive Planning Manager
Body
Summary:
This is a request for adoption, by resolution of the North Nevada / University of Colorado, Colorado Springs Economic Opportunity Zone (EOZ) Task Force Findings and Recommendations report (EOZ report) as originally prepared in 2014. The document would be used in an advisory manner for strategic planning purposes, consistent with the City’s Strategic Plan and Infill Action Plan. If adopted, staff suggests that the recommendations in the report be treated and used by the City as a “menu” of available strategic options.
Previous Council Action:
This item was presented to Council Work Session on May 23, 2016 and referred to the regular session on June 14, 2016.
This EOZ report was previously presented to City Council at a work session in early 2014 but no formal action was taken at that time.
Background:
In 2013 at the request of then Mayor Steve Bach, Fred Veitch of Nor’wood assembled Task Forces for Academy Boulevard and North Nevada as part of larger EOZ Solutions Team. The co-chairs for the Nevada EOZ effort were Rob Oldach Colorado Structures and Councilman Don Knight. Additional members are listed in the report. The purpose of the effort was to recommend specific strategies to implement to foster the revitalization of the North Nevada Avenue area, particularly in light of the growth potential associated with UCCS.
The Task Force’s resulting EOZ report recommends a focus on leveraging the growth and potential of UCCS, and presents 12 recommendations that vary in time frame, specificity and responsibility.
Also included with the original 2014 EOZ report is a limited supplement highlighting key updates since 2014. These include the announcement of a cyber-security facility and initiative along the North Nevada corridor.
The general approach of the City with respect to these recommendations has been to focus on getting the plans and regulations in place to support the emerging vision and expected development activity in this corridor.
To-date the City has moved forward with securing funding for and engaging a consultant (Kimberly Horn) to update the roadway cross section and access plans, and this process is well underway. The City has also recently identified and secured funding for the recommended market study, land use and potential zoning/design guidelines, including a $95,000 Colorado Department of Local Affairs (DOLA) grant. In light of receiving the DOLA grant, City staff issued a request for proposals (RFP) to select a consulting team to develop a redevelopment plan for the North Nevada EOZ area. The scope of work includes a vision plan, zoning assessment and recommendations, market needs assessment, utility evaluation, and stakeholder outreach/participation. As of writing of this Council Memo, a consulting team has been selected but the contract has not been finalized.
Adoption of the EOZ report would be consistent with the overall intent of the City’s Strategic Plan, and with several of its particular recommendations. These include:
“Improve our image by addressing blight, improving medians and rights-of-ways, and encouraging development of EOZs (Economic Opportunity Zones)
Implement priorities of the Infill & Revitalization Steering Committee
Facilitate increased private sector investment in EOZs through improving infrastructure, updating planning efforts, and changing related City policies.
Partner with stakeholders to continue development in EOZs.”
Financial Implications:
There are no direct financial impacts of this action in terms of required financial obligations. The EOZ report is an advisory document. However, some of the associated recommendations contained in the EOZ report could have the potential for future financial implications depending on implementation choices.
Board/Commission Recommendation:
In early 2014, the North Nevada / University of Colorado, Colorado Springs EOZ Task Force recommended these findings and recommendations to the Mayor and City Council.
The Planning Commission (PC) recommended adoption of this resolution at their April 21, 2016 meeting. A copy of their record of decision will be provided prior to formal action on this agenda item. At their meeting, several PC members strongly supported the adoption and use of this document, but also stated a preference for being more involved in communication and consideration of these documents as they are initially being prepared.
Stakeholder Process:
The stakeholder’s process for this document involved an overall EOZ Solutions Team endorsed by then Mayor Bach and chaired by community member Fred Veitch. Two EOZ task forces were organized by Mr. Veitch, one for the North Nevada area and one for Academy Boulevard, each with a City Council co-chair and community member co-chair. A complete list of Task Force members is included in the EOZ report.
Alternatives:
City Council could choose to approve, deny or modify the proposed resolution.
Recommended Action
Proposed Motion:
Move to approve a resolution adopting the North Nevada / University of Colorado, Colorado Springs Economic Opportunity Zone Task Force Findings and Recommendations for strategic planning purposes.
Summary of Ordinance Language
N/A