HomeMy WebLinkAbout07678ORDINANCE NO. 7678
AN ORDINANCE APPROVING AND ADOPTING A MASTER PLAN FOR THE CITY OF
PUEBLO'S HONOR FARM PARK AND OPEN SPACE PROPERTY
WHEREAS, City Council, in June 2006, appointed the Honor Farm Master Plan Advisory
Committee to assist in the preparation of a master plan for City's Honor Farm Park and Open
Space Property; and
WHEREAS, the Honor Farm Master Plan Advisory Committee has caused to be prepared a master
plan for delineation of the recreational uses and the physical development of the City's Honor Farm
Park and Open Space Property; and,
WHEREAS, the City Planning and Zoning Commission, after public hearings thereon conducted
after due publication, has approved said master plan and submitted same to City Council for its
approval. NOW THEREFORE,
BE IT ORDAINED BY THE CITY COUNCIL OF PUEBLO, that:
SECTION 1.
The City of Pueblo Honor Farm Park and Open Space Master Plan, heretofore approved by
the City Planning and Zoning Commission and submitted to the City Council for approval, copies of
which are attached hereto, is hereby approved and adopted.
SECTION 2.
The authorized uses and the physical development of the City's Honor Farm Property after
the effective date of this Ordinance shall be in conformity with the Honor Farm Park and Open
Space Master Plan, hereby adopted, except insofar as any such physical development has been
heretofore approved by Ordinance of the City Council.
SECTION 3.
This Ordinance shall become effective immediately upon final passage and approval.
INTRODUCED October 22, 2007
BY Randy Thurston
Councilperson
APPROVED: a
#?ESIDEINTof City Council
ATTESTED BY:
CITY CLERK
PASSED AND APPROVED: November 12. 2007
QYd . - 1& - 7 9
Background Paper for Proposed
ORDINANCE
AGENDA ITEM # j� 'ZT
DATE: OCTOBER 22, 2007
DEPARTMENT: JERRY M. PACHECO, ASSISTANT CITY MANAGER FOR
COMMUNITY DEVELOPMENT
TITLE
AN ORDINANCE APPROVING AND ADOPTING A MASTER PLAN FOR THE CITY OF
PUEBLO'S HONOR FARM PARK AND OPEN SPACE PROPERTY
ISSUE
Should City Council approve a Park and Open Space Master Plan for the City's Honor
Farm Park and Open Space Property?
RECOMMENDATION
The Planning and Zoning Commission at their October 10, 2007 Regular Meeting voted
5 -1, to recommend approval of the master plan.
BACKGROUND
The Honor Farm Master Plan establishes a long -term master plan for the phased
development and operation of 2,373 acres of public park and open space property
located in unincorporated Pueblo County west of Pueblo Boulevard (SH 45) and south
of US Highway 50 West. The Honor Farm property was acquired in 2001 by the City of
Pueblo, and as part of the land acquisition the City of Pueblo granted a conservation
easement to the State of Colorado that allows for park, recreation, and open space
areas, but prohibits future commercial and residential development of the property.
City Council appointed a twelve member advisory committee in July, 2006 to develop
the park and open space master plan in conjunction with city staff and contracted
consultants. The area included within the Honor Farm Park and Open Space Mater
plan is 2,850 acres, with 2,373 acres owned by the City and 477 acres of privately
owned parcels. The private parcels are located between the City and Lake Pueblo
State Park property, adjacent to Pueblo West Metropolitan District, and immediately
west of Pueblo Boulevard. The master plan includes the designation of different park
and open space uses of the property, a plan for the realignment of the park boundaries
to allow for the acquisition of the privately owned in- holdings, the general location for
future roadways connecting between Pueblo West and Pueblo Blvd., a project
implementation plan and schedule, projected costs for park and open space
improvements, a projected cost for operation and management, and operation and
management recommendations.
The master planning process has included four public workshops over the past twelve
months to receive input and involve the public in the developing the Master Plan. The
Honor Farm Master Plan Committee has updated City Council three times during the
development plan on the goals, work plan, and alternative park designs. The main
issues that have been identified through the public workshops, City Council work
sessions, and public comments include the following:
1. Goals and objectives of the master plan identified by City Council and
requirements of the conservation easement granted to the State of Colorado by
the City of Pueblo.
2. Adoption of ordinance by City Council amending the Pueblo Municipal Code
relating to trespassing on City owned property that prohibits the use of the
Honor Farm property for unsanctioned off -road vehicle uses.
3. The percentage of the property recommended for off -road use and identifying
and controlling access points between the Honor Farm and Lake Pueblo State
Park and the requirement for off -road use to be limited to designated trails.
4. The amount of time it will take for the City to implement a plan to sanction a
lease operation for an off -road vehicle area involving the acquisition of privately
owned in- holdings prior to implementation.
5. Development of an off -road park area at a different location than the Honor
Farm.
6. Whether to include a roadway connecting from Pueblo West to Pueblo Blvd
through the park and open space area.
7. The location and type of design for a roadway connecting from Pueblo West to
Pueblo Blvd through the park and open space area.
8. The impact of noise and dust for residences adjacent to the Honor Farm.
9. The controlling of illegal dumping, shooting, and illegal access that is an
ongoing problem occurring at the Honor Farm.
10. Planning for active park facilities and uses that do not overlap with plans for the
YMCA campus project.
11. Long -term cost for the development, operation and maintenance of the park
and open space area utilized by City and County residents, as well as visitors
from other areas of Colorado and the Rocky Mountain region.
FINANCIAL IMPACT
No financial impact at this time, although if City Council approves actions recommended
in the plan there will be associated financial impacts.
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Honor Farm Park and Open Space
Master Purr
Pueblo, Colorado
Prepared by:
Honor Farm Master Plan Advisory Committee
City of Pueblo
211 E. "D" Street
Pueblo, CO 81003
and
Design Concepts, Inc.
211 North Public Road, Suite 200
Lafayette, CO 80026
ACKNOWLEDGEMENTS
CITY COUNCIL
Judy Weaver
Barbara Vidmar
Michael Occhiato
Randy Thurston
Ray Aguilera
Vera Ortegon
Lawrence Atencio
Jeff Chostner*
Gilbert Ortiz*
* Denotes former City Council members,
who participated in the planning process.
HONOR FARM MASTER PLAN ADVISORY COMMITTEE
Brian Robinson
Mike Milligan
Wendy Rapp
Del Milne
John Holiman
Dennis Donaldson
Mike Occhiato
Jay Gilman
Brad Henley
Rod Slyhoff
M.D. "Butch" Batchelder
Jeff Chostner
CITY OF PUEBLO PLANNING AND COMMUNITY DEVELOPMENT
Jerry Pacheco, Assistant City Manager for Community Development
Scott Hobson, Acting Director of Land Use Administration
MASTER PLAN CONSULTANT
Design Concepts, Inc. — Lafayette, CO
CONTRIBUTING CONSULTANTS
Tapis Associates
Kezziah/Watkins
Matrix Design Group, Inc.
Special thanks is extended to the members of the Honor Farm Master Plan Advisory Committee,
who guided the project through the strategic vision planning process and assisted with the public
meetings and updates to City Council throughout the planning process.
MAPS
Map 1
TABLE OF CONTENTS
3
Section
PROPERTY OWNERSHIP MAP
Page
1.0 PROJECT DESCRIPTION
I
1.1
DESCRIPTION
1
1.2
LOCATION
1
1.3
HISTORY
1
1.4
EXISTING USES
2
1.5
PURPOSE OF MASTER PLAN
4
2.0 MASTER PLAN
4
2.1
OPEN SPACE ELEMENT
4
RECOMMENDED PARCELS FOR ACQUISITION
2.1.1 CONSERVATION VALUES
4
ROADWAY CONCEPTUAL CROSS SECTIONS
2.1.2 PHYSIOGRAPHY AND GEOLOGY
4
DOCUMENT ATTACHMENTS
2.1.3 TOPOGRAPHY
6
IMPLEMENTATION MATRIX
2.1.4 VEGETATION
6
PRELIMINARY ESTIMATE OF PROBABLE COSTS
2.1.5 WILDLIFE
6
FUNDING STRATEGY
2.1.6 CLIMATE
8
2.2
PARK AND RECREATION ELEMENT
8
HONOR FARM HISTORY
2.2.1 PUEBLO MOTORSPORTS PARK
8
ENVIRONMENTAL MAPS — Design Concepts,Inc.
2.2.2 SKY CORRAL RIC PARK
9
2.2.3 OFF ROAD VEHICLE AREA
9
2.2.4 NATURAL PARK
9
2.2.5 TRAILS
11
2.2.6 OPEN SPACE
11
2.2.7 PRIVATE DEVELOPMENT
11
2.3
PARK INFRASTRUCTURE
12
2.3.1 PARK ROADS
12
2.3.2 PARKING
12
2.3.3 PARK UTILITIES
12
2.4
IMPLEMENTATION ELEMENT
13
2.4.1 ACTION CATEGORIES
13
2.4.2 IMPLEMENTATION ACTION TIMEFRAMES
13
2.4.3 PRELIMINARY ESTIMATE OF COSTS
14
2.4.4 MANAGEMENT RECOMMENDATIONS
14
MAPS
Map 1
VICINITY MAP
3
Map 2
PROPERTY OWNERSHIP MAP
5
Map 3
FACILITY MAP — DRAG & ROAD RACING
7
Map 4
HONOR FARM MASTER PLAN
10
Map 5
WATER & SANITARY SEWER SERVIECE
15
Map 6 -
IMMEDIATE ACTION MAP
20
Map 7
SHORT TERM ACTION MAP
21
Map 8
MID TERM ACTION MAP
22
Map 9
LONG TERM ACTION MAP
23
Map 10
RECOMMENDED PARCELS FOR ACQUISITION
24
Map 11
ROADWAY CONCEPTUAL CROSS SECTIONS
25
DOCUMENT ATTACHMENTS
Attachment A
IMPLEMENTATION MATRIX
16
Attachment B
PRELIMINARY ESTIMATE OF PROBABLE COSTS
26
Attachment C
FUNDING STRATEGY
29
Attachment D
DESCRIPTION OF FUNDING SOURCES
31
Attachment E
HONOR FARM HISTORY
35
Attachment F
ENVIRONMENTAL MAPS — Design Concepts,Inc.
36
Donor Farm Park and Open Space
Master Plan
PROJECT DESCRIPTION
Description
The Honor Farm Master Plan establishes a long -term master plan for the phased development
and operation of 2,373 acres of public park and open space property located in unincorporated
Pueblo County west of Pueblo Boulevard (SH 45) and south of US Highway 50 West. The
Honor Farm property was acquired in 2001 by the City of Pueblo, and as part of the land
acquisition the City of Pueblo granted a conservation easement to the State of Colorado that
allows for park, recreation, and open space areas, but prohibits future commercial and residential
development of the property. The property is being planned to be the future location of a
regional park that will act as an open space separator between the City of Pueblo and the Pueblo
West Metropolitan District. In addition the property will serve as a buffer between Lake Pueblo
State Park (26 sq. miles) and the developed areas within the City (44 sq. miles) and the Pueblo
West Metropolitan District (57 sq. miles).
Location
The Honor Farm Master Plan area is located west of Pueblo Boulevard (SH 45) and south of US
Highway 50 West in unincorporated Pueblo County (See Attachment 1 - Vicinity Map). The
master plan area is comprised of 2,373 acres owned by the City of Pueblo, 520 acres of privately
owned in- holdings 80 acres of adjacent property bordering the park along Pueblo Boulevard.
(See Attachment 2 - Property Ownership Map).
History
The Honor Farm was homesteaded and patents were filed on land over a 20 -year period from the
early 1870's into the 1890's. Between 1920 and 1922 the State Hospital, under the Colorado
Department of Institutions, purchased 83 acres and moved its dairy from the main hospital
grounds north of downtown Pueblo and developed a farming area on the property now known as
the Old Honor Farm. Over an 18 -year period from 1946 to 1964 an additional 4,000 acres was
purchased in anticipation of expanding its operation to produce the needed milk and vegetables
to feed nearly 6,000 patients. This additional property contained the area that makes up the
City's Honor Farm recreation and open space park. In the late 1960's the State of Colorado
changed the focus of the State Mental Health Institution that resulted in the closure of the
agricultural operations on the State Honor Farm property. Between 1964 and 1974, the State
Hospital transferred the 4,000 acres of Dairy Farm land to the Colorado Division of Corrections
within the Department of Institutions, ending a 44 -year profitable and award- winning operation.
The Division of Corrections operated the Dairy Farm during this period, thus keeping the land
within the Department of Institutions. In 1974, State Representative Bob Jackson of Pueblo
recommended that the Dairy property be leased to the City of Pueblo as a buffer zone between
Pueblo and Pueblo West and for future recreational expansion, rather than have the State dispose
of the property for private development. On June 26, 1974 the property was leased to the City of
Pueblo for a 20 -year period. The lease was renewed in 1994 and continued until June 2001.
During the term of the lease the property was used for a motor sports park (established in 1975),
a radio - controlled airplane area (established in 1976), motorized and non - motorized recreational
trail activities, and as open space. Two equestrian organizations, Southern Colorado Charros
Association and the Pueblo West Saddle Club leased property adjacent to Nature Center Road
for developed recreational equestrian facilities. At that time the city purchased 2,353 acres of the
northern portion of the property leased from the State of Colorado. This is the majority of the
property that makes up the City's Honor Farm recreation and open space park. At the time of the
purchase, the lease was terminated and the remaining 1,600 acres of the southern portion of the
Honor Farm was combined with Lake Pueblo State Park, except for a 25 -acre area leased by the
city for the Pueblo Raptor Center. On August 8, 2005, the City accepted a quitclaim deed for
19.9 acres of property adjacent to existing City Honor Farm property from the United States
Department of the Interior._ The federal government property was originally acquired as a site for
a power sub - station. The property is transferred to the City and stipulated for park and open
space uses. A chronological history chart is included as Attachment C.
Existing Uses
The City has entered into three lease agreements within the Honor Farm property.
Pueblo Motorsports Park
The City leases 720 acres for the operation of a raceway including a drag strip, 2.2 -mile road
course, a motocross track, a paved 1 /20th -mile quarter midget oval, and a dirt oval track (See
Attachment A — Facility Map — Drag and Road Racing). Pueblo Motorsports Inc. (PMI) was
formed in 1973 to work towards developing a motorsports facility in southern Colorado. In
September 1975, PMP hosted it's first drag race event which was a Winston Drag Series which is
equal to the Lucas Oil Drag Race Series of today. The dragstrip has been host to legendary
racers such as Don Pruhomme, Reber Morrison, Warren Johnson, and Tommy Johnson Jr. The
city granted $125,000 in revenue sharing money, the county gave $75,000 for construction of
Pueblo Motorsports Park. PMI constructed the dragstrip and a short road course at that time. The
majority of construction of PMP was done with volunteer work. The motocross track was added
in the late 1970's and still holds several major events each season. The dirt oval track was built in
the late 80's but is no longer operational. The road course was expanded to 2.2 miles in the late
80's and hosts numerous events each season. The road course has hosted the One Lap of America
with Brock Yates, other famous road racers have come to practice for the Denver Grand Prix and
the Pikes Peak Hill Climb. The racetrack facility has water; well - maintained flush and pit toilets,
race fuel and a food concession are available at the track. In 2007, PMI has started scheduling
performance driving schools and a motorcycle school.
Sky Corral Radio Control Park
The City leases 60 acres for the operation of a radio control airplane park to Sky Corral R/C
Park. Sky Corral was formed in 197_ and includes a 60' x 500' paved east -west runway
intersected from the northwest by a 30' x 500' runway. The facility also includes two small
buildings and four covered shade structures that are used by the airplane operators. Sky Corral is
operated as a membership club and also hosts several radio controlled events at the facility each
year.
Aquila Substation
A power substation has been operated through a lease agreement on the Honor Farm property
since 1951. The electric substation is located within a 20 acre area leased by the City to Aquila,
Inc. The City approved a 25 -year lease to Aquila in 2003 for continued operation of the
substation.
2
Existing Uses (cont.)
Several unorganized and unsanctioned uses are occurring on the property. Individuals with off -
road vehicles and motorcycles use a large portion of the areas not under lease contracts. The
sections of the property primarily outside of the lease areas also have occurrences of dumping
trash and tires, as well as illegal hunting and target practice.
Purpose of Master Plan
The purpose of the plan is to develop a development and implementation strategy for a variety of
recreational uses, as well as for the long -term protection of open space now and in the future as it
anticipates growth in and around the Pueblo community. Working under the conditions of the
Conservation Easement Agreement with the State of Colorado, the master plan will provide
guidelines for the responsible management and use of the land. The plan will determine and
balance appropriate uses of the property and provide for the protection and preservation of open
space areas.
MASTER PLAN
Open Space Element
Conservation Values
The Honor Farm property is part of the short grass prairie ecosystem that is located on a mesa
above and north of the Arkansas River riparian area. These parcels, in combination with the
state -owned Honor Farm lands, are a significant part of a 4,000 -acre generally undeveloped open
space separator between the City of Pueblo and the community of Pueblo West (See Attachment
D - Environmental Study Maps).
The property contains a generally undisturbed shortgrass prairie habitat, and several arroyos that
provide the water supply and habitat for the area's wildlife. The parcels contain habitat for three
species that are ranked as federally sensitive. These species are the Ferruginous Hawk (buteo
regalis), and the Dwarf Milkweed plant (asclepias uncialis), and the Sandhill Goosefoot plant
(chenopodium cycloloides). These.species have been identified as occurring within or adjacent
to the Honor Farm parcels through data provided by the Colorado Natural Heritage Program,
July 2, 1996. In addition the parcels contain habitat for the Mexican Spotted Owl that is ranked
as threatened within the state of Colorado.
Overall the parcels contain habitat for eight vertebrate and invertebrate species, ten plants, and
two natural communities that have a statewide status ranking between S1 -S3 by the Colorado
Natural Heritage Program based on the data collected in July, 1996.
Physiography and Geology
This land evolved through three major historical periods. Initially there were deposits of
sediments (limestone, shale, and sandstone) under a shallow cretaceous sea. This gave the area
its characteristic horizontal character as seen in the bedding planes and flat upland slopes. Then
there was a gentle folding of the earth's crust. The last historical land shaping process was the
erosion of the previously deposited sediments and the evolution of a drainage network where
mostly alluvial and colluvial materials were laid down. The geologic formations of the Honor
Farm are classed either as surficial deposits or as sedimentary rocks. Alluvium and colluvium
make up the surficial deposits, while limestone, and shale make up the sedimentary rocks.
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Topogra liy
The Honor Farm property is located near the interface of the Southern Rocky Mountain and
Great Plains Physiographic Provinces. It consists of a broad valley steep sides and a rather
narrow, nearly flat floor. Elevations range from 1494 to 1588 in (4900 to 5210 ft). To the west,
the foothills rise to meet the Wet Mountains, with the higher Sangre de Cristo range forming the
backdrop. To the east extends the Arkansas Valley and terraced high plains.
Soil
Soils on the Land Trade properties are varied and complex. They include loamy plans, limestone
breaks, and saline overflows. The pH of these soils generally falls between 7.9 and 8.4, which is
moderately alkaline. When underlain by resistant limestone bedrock, a shallow stony soil forms.
When underlain by broad alluvial deposits, the soils become more loamy of sand and clay.
Vegetation
Woody vegetation:
The most common tree is the Sabina monosperma (one -seed juniper). The most common shrubs
are Atriplex canescens (four -wing saltbush), Artemisia tridentata (big sagebrush), and
Crysothamnus Nauseosus (rabbit brush).
Grasses:
A wide variety of grasses exist on the property. The species reflect a dry shortgrass prairie type
with Bouteloua gracilis (Blue grama), Pleuraphis jamesii (Galleta), Buchloe dactyloides
(Buffalo grass) and Bouteloua curtipendula (Sideoats grama) common throughout the area.
Cactus Plants:
The most common cactus species found on the property are Opuntia phaeacantha (New Mexico
prickly - pear), Opuntia basilaris (Beavertail) and several Cylindropuntia (Cholla) species.
Drainages:
The Pest House gulch drainage has Typha latifolia (cat -tail) species. There are some occurrences
of Tamarix parviflora (tamarisk) and Elaeagnus and angustifolia (Russian olive), both identified
as invasive species on the Colorado noxious plant list.
Wildlife
The animal life found on the Honor Farm property is quite extensive:
Mammals:
Mule deer, coyote, and bobcat are the more common game species.
Birds:
A large number of birds, many of the songbird variety, abound in the area. Scaled quail,
mourning doves, pheasant, and many raptors can be observed.
rl
Map 3
Facility Map - Drag and Road Racing
TRACK ALTITUDE 4900 ft.
[G=-` CORRECTION FACTOR .9393
DRAGSTRIP—
14,000'
TOTAL W40TNI
1
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LOCATION MAP
(not to scale)
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ph road
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7
Climate
The semiarid 'climate of the Honor Farm is typical of the plains. The property is
characterized by light rainfall, high evaporation, low humidity, moderate to high winds,
and a wide daily range in temperature. The mean annual temperature is 52° F. Growing
seasons average 165 days with the first killing frost usually occurring in October and last
frost near the end of April.
The average annual precipitation at Pueblo is 11.84 inches. A large portion of the annual
total precipitation falls during the growing season with 70 to 75 percent during the period
from April through September. Measurable summer precipitation is largely from afternoon
thunderstorms, but his occurs only one day in four, while winter precipitation occurs only
one day in eight. The driest period is in the autumn and winter when the average monthly
precipitation falls below one inch.
The prevailing winds primarily originate in the west from October through March, while
the remainder of the year they come primarily from the southeast. The annual average
wind speed is 8.5 mph. A wind phenomenon called the Chinook occurs frequently during
the winter and early spring. These winds, warmed by their rapid descent from high levels,
cause large and sudden temperature rises.
Park and Recreation Element
As part of the master plan tasks, the site has been analyzed to determine which areas could
be developed with park and recreation facilities for activities that do not significantly
conflict or impact the property's natural and open space values (See Map 4). An area is
also identified that could be traded/and or sold to generate the funding for the acquisition of
515 acres of privately owned property that would be acquired by the City and managed as
part of the Honor Farm Park and Open Space. The management of the Honor Farm is
divided into seven separate use zones:
PMI Motorsport Park Lease
310
acres
11%
Sky Corral R -C Lease
180
acres
6%
Off - Highway Vehicle Lease
62o
acres
22%
Natural Park
200
acres
7%
Open Space
1155
acres
41%
Private Development
215
acres
8%
Roadways & Utility sites
160
acres
6%
Total Acres
2640 acres 100%
The use zones are described as follows:
Pueblo Motorsports Park
The master plan establishes a phasing process whereby the lease area for the Pueblo
Motorsports Park is reduced in size as property is either sold or traded to fund the
acquisition of privately owned property to be added to the Honor Farm Park and Open
G
Space. A revised lease area containing the drag strip, 2.2 -mile road course, paved 1 /20th-
mile quarter midget oval, a new site for the a motocross track, and the possibly the oval dirt
track would be included within the lease area. In addition sufficient area for event parking
will be included within the lease area. New roadways are planned to provide improved access
from Pueblo Boulevard to PMI. These routes include the Spaulding Avenue and 31" Street
extensions to the west of Pueblo Boulevard. The current 710 -acre lease area is proposed to
be reduced to a range of 310 -350 acres.
Sky Corral Radio - Control Park
The radio - control (R -C) park area is planned to be expanded from the current 60 -acre area
to 180 acres as the R -C park uses are expanded to potentially include R -C racetrack and
off -road courses, as well as model rocketry and kite areas. The potential alignment of the
Joe Martinez Roadway between Pueblo West and the City of Pueblo could impact the
southwest corner of the current lease area. The roadway alignment may require the
relocation of some of the R -C airplane runways and associated facilities. If these facilities
are required to be relocated, they will be constructed as part of the mitigation requirements
for the roadway project. Any new location for the runways and facilities will need to be
carefully coordinated to allow for the proper distances for runways and clearances from
private residences, roadways, and powerlines.
Off- Hiehwav Vehicle (OHV) Park
The City is working with Colorado State Parks to identify a new location for an OHV park
in an area within Pueblo County, but in a different location than the Honor Farm property.
Pueblo County contains the largest number of acres owned and managed by the State Land
Board (approximately 220,000 acres) within the state. There may be an opportunity to
work with the State Land Board and Colorado State Parks for the development and
operation of a OHV park on state lands within Pueblo County.
In the interim, a new lease area is proposed to be established for off -road vehicles and
motorbikes within the southern portion of the park covering approximately 620 acres. The
OHV park will be required to have designated routes providing trail uses for off -road
motorbikes, all- terrain vehicles, 4x4 trucks and sport utility vehicles. Approximately 360 acres
of privately owned in- holdings will need to be leased or purchased to provide a contiguous area
for OHV uses. Designated areas such as 4 x 4 tracks, ATV trails, mini /peewee track, and open
riding trails could be developed within the area along some existing trails and newly
constructed motorized trails.
If an off -site OHV park is developed, the area designated to be leased for OHV uses within the
Honor Farm Park and Open Space will be managed and reclaimed as part of the open space
buffer between the City of Pueblo,. Pueblo West Metropolitan District, and Lake Pueblo State
Park.
Natural Park Area
A natural park area will be developed on 200 acres of the property (1" Phase - 25 acres, 2 "d
Phase —75 acres, 3` Phase — 100 acres). The potential facilities identified to be included
within the natural park area include small and large picnic areas, playground, restrooms,
trails, tree and shrub plantings, irrigation system for trees and shrubs, gateway park
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entrance, along with potential future specialized facilities such as a soap box derby track
within the southeast corner of the park and possibly extending into the open space buffer
west of Pueblo Boulevard. The location for a picnic pavilion will be identified within the
natural park area to be constructed during future phases. Picnic shelters with seating for 6-
8 people will also be located within the natural park area. The drainage arroyo that passes
through the park will be reshaped, revegetated and a main east -west hard surfaced
connecting trail will pass through the park with connections to the major park facilities.
The concrete trail will be part of the regional trail system connecting from the Honor Farm
from the YMCA campus and the Wildhorse Creek Trail, and linking to the 16 -mile river
trail along the Arkansas River and Fountain Creek.
Open Space
The location of the steep bluffs, open valleys and arroyo drainages contain conservation
values identified for protection within the conservation easement granted to the State of
Colorado by the City of Pueblo. Primarily located in the northwest section of the property,
these areas contain the highest conservation values such as drainages, bluffs areas with views
of Pueblo Dam and the Arkansas River, and the hills with juniper and Pinon trees. The
drainages intersect the property and provide the majority of important habitat areas. These
proposed open space areas contain 1, 140 acres and are designated for non - motorized uses.
Another key value of the open space is to provide a buffer zone between Lake Pueblo State
Park, and the expanding development of the City of Pueblo and the Pueblo West
Metropolitan District.
The plan provides for ongoing restoration of the short grass prairie landscape and arroyos to
establish native plains grasses and shrubs, as well as restore eroded and damaged areas. The Pest
House Gulch drainage will also be cleanup and replanted with riparian willows and trees to
improve the habitat and appearance of the drainage corridor.
A multi -use recreational trail system including both soft - surfaced and concrete trails will be
developed within the open space areas. The City will work with Pueblo West Metropolitan
District and Lake Pueblo State Park to identify trail access points on the Honor Farm
property. A series of soft - surfaced trails totaling approximately 4.25 miles will be
established by within the open space area for walking, jogging, horseback riding and nature
activities. A trail looping along the southwestern boundary will include an overlook to
view Lake Pueblo, the Arkansas River below the dam, and the City of Pueblo.
Geo -Cache sites for global positioning system (gps) users will also be established within the
open space area. The location coordinates of the geo -cache sites are placed on the intemet
and gps users follow the coordinates to attempt to locate a "cache ".
The majority of the open space area will be managed to require dogs to be on- leach, but some
areas within the designated open space will be considered for an exception to the leash rule and
could allow for dogs off -leash. Owner /guardians accompanying a dog in an off -leash area will be
required to have the ability to restrain their dog.
Private Development
The acquisition of privately -owned parcels within the central and eastern portions of the Honor
Farm planning area is identified as one of the first steps to implement the master plan. The
11
mechanism to finance the acquisition of the in- holdings allowed within the Honor Farm
Conservation Easement is through the exchange or sale /purchase of properties that are equal in
value. In this way the property boundary of the park and open space area can be adjusted to fit the
proposed uses and management of the park and open space. The northeast corner of the property
is proposed to be traded or sold to fund the acquisition of approximately 515 acres of privately -
owned parcels identified for acquisition within the Conservation Easement — Property Adjustment
Map. Two benefits of the private development are the ability to have the roadways improved from
Spaulding and 24 Street, and providing for the extension of water and other utility services to
areas adjacent to proposed park facilities.
A 35 -acre portion of the private development area has been identified as a possible location for a
water park with water slides, wave pool, water play areas, bathhouse, picnic area, food and water
play concessions, and gift shop. A private company, City Parks and Recreation Department or a
management authority contracted by the City, could develop the water park area.
Park Infrastructure
Park Roadways. Parking & Utifity Sites
The roadway accesses into the Honor Farm will be initially from the Pueblo Motorsports
Park access road and the extension of Joe Martinez Boulevard west of Purcell Boulevard to
a parking facility in the northwest comer of the open space area. In the future, 20 Street
will be extended west of Pueblo Blvd. to provide access to the natural park area and the
off - highway vehicle lease area. As private development occurs west of Pueblo Boulevard a
north -south roadway will be developed linking between 24 Street and Spaulding Avenue.
In addition, a 31 Street is anticipated to be extended west through the private parcel
linking to the main gate of Pueblo Motorsports Park. A principle arterial is planned to be
constructed between Joe Martinez Boulevard in Pueblo West and 24` Street at Pueblo
Boulevard. The roadway will provide new access points the off - highway vehicle lease area
and the Sky Corral radio control park.
Five designated areas within the park, as well as parking within the Pueblo Motorsports
Park will provide parking for 1500 vehicles when the park and open space areas are fully
operational. The parking areas and associated number of spaces include: West side open
space & trailhead (50), Sky Corral R -C Park (100), West OHV Parking (250), East OHV &
Natural Park (400), Motocross Parking (200), Pueblo Motorsports Park (500).
The Aquila substation property containing 20 acres will continue to be operated through a
lease agreement on the property. Aquila currently has a blanket easement for access to the
substation and power line easements. When roadways are developed, specific access
easements will be established for the substation site.
Park Utilities
Board of Water Works Service
The Pueblo Board of Water Works has an 8" line that connects to a 12" water main on the west
side of Pueblo Blvd just south of 24th St. A 4" meter is located at the west end of the private
property along the proposed Joe Martinez roadway extension. A 4" water line extends from the
meter northwest to the Pueblo Motorsports Park. Additional water service lines are anticipated to
12
be connected to the private development areas west of Pueblo Boulevard. These water lines could
be extended to service the natural park area (irrigation system and restrooms). A separate water
service extension would likely be required for the private development in the northeast corner of
the property, as well as for the development of a water park facility.
Sanitary Sewer Service
The closest available sanitary sewer connection to the Honor Farm property is to a 10" line
that has been extended to Pueblo Blvd along 24` Street. The sanitary sewer lines that
currently serve the Southern Colorado Clinic area east of Pueblo Boulevard would not have
the capacity for the connection of the sanitary sewer system west of Pueblo Boulevard.
Natural gas and cable connections are available to be extended from developed areas east
or north of the park site. Electricity and telephone are already extended to the Pueblo
Motorsports Park.
Natural Gas and Cable Service
Natural gas and cable connections are available to be extended from developed areas east
or north of the park site. Electricity and telephone are already extended to the Pueblo
Motorsports Park.
Implementation Element
The process of improving, operating and maintaining the Honor Farm Park and Open Space
Park will occur over many years and with the combined efforts of many individuals, public
agencies and private organizations. The implementation plan for the Honor Farm Park and
Open Space Park has been divided into seven action categories that emphasize control of
access point, public health and safety, actions related to existing lease areas, property
adjustments to implement the park plan, and steps to develop the future park, open space and
roadways within the park. Each category has a series of implementation actions recommended
over an identified time frame.
Seven Action Categories
1. Secure Control of Property Boundaries
2. Public Health And Safety
3. Existing Lease Agreements (Pueblo Motorsports Park and Sky Corral RCAP)
4. Implementation of OHV Area
5. Property Adjustments to Implement Master Plan
6. Roadways Connecting From Pueblo West to Pueblo Blvd
7. Future Park Development and Open Space Areas
Implementation Action Timeframes
1. Immediate Actions (1 year)
2. Short Term Actions (2 -4 years)
3. Mid Term Actions (5 -7 years)
4. Long Term Actions (8 -20 years)
13
An Implementation Matrix is included as Attachment A and Maps 6 -9 shows the action steps
to implement the Honor Farm Park and Open Space Plan during each of the four timeframes.
Preliminary Estimate of Costs and Fundine Sources
A Preliminary Estimate of Probable Costs to fund the action steps is included as
Attachment B. A chart showing the potential funding sources for financing the costs for
improvements, operations, and management is included as Attachment C — Funding
Strategy. The potential funding sources are described in Attachment D.
Honor Farm Park and Open Space Management Recommendations
1. The management of the Motorsports Park, Radio Controlled Park, Off - Highway
Vehicle Park, and possibly including a future Water Park is recommended to be
contracted by the City through lease agreements with local organizations and/or private
operators.
2. The City should consider entering into lease agreements that are for longer terms (5 -10
year) leases in order to provide the opportunity for lease holders to be able to make
investments in the property with a certainty of remaining in operation for an extended
period of time.
The City should consider the formation of an Authority similar to the Historic Arkansas
Riverwalk for the operation and management to oversee the development and
maintenance of the Honor Farm property and oversee the areas leased for specific
recreational uses. The Honor Farm Authority would enter into an intergovernmental
agreement with the City of Pueblo.
4. The City should consider requiring operational and safety plans approved by the
City /Authority for all leases areas within the Honor Farm. The plans should address
operation, maintenance of lease areas, along with a safety and emergency response
plan.
5. The City should consider assisting groups leasing property for recreational uses in
securing grant funds to improve their operations and facilities, as well as coordinate the
roadway and infrastructure improvements at the Honor Farm to reduce the cost for
providing improvements to the park, open space, trails, and lease areas.
6. The City should coordinate with surrounding entities in the development of linking
recreation facilities, law enforcement, and roadway improvements.
14
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25
ATTACHMENT B
Honor Farm Park & Open Space Project
Preliminary Estimate of Probable Construction Cost
April 9, 2007 Prepared by:
City of Pueblo
Planning Department
PRELIMINARY - NOT FOR CONSTRUCTION
# Item Quantity Units Unit Price Item Subtotal
Immediate Actions +I � lifll 4 +it' eri}l p }, S�i�. "—'7. �'.i tll i �i� k k � �j � I I III X + .+ nr t
Immediate Actions - Improvements/Facilities
A. Property Boundary Adjustments
1 Annexations /Property Surveying 1 is $ 5,000.00 $ 5,000
B. Property Signage & Road Closure
2 Boundary signs & OHV prohibited areas 70 ea $ 50.00 $ 3,500
3 Roadway Closure - south end of PMI lease area 1 ea $ 1,500.00 $ 1,500
Subtotal Immediate Actions - Improvements $ 10,000
2 -4 Years Actions - Imorovements/Facilities
A. Property Boundary Adjustments
4 Appraisal of Northeast Honor Farm Property 1
Is
$
10,000.00
$ 10,000
B. Property Signage
5 Boundary & Closed Area Signs 50
ea
$
50.00
$ 2,500
C. OHV Lease Area Access Road/Parking
6 Gravel Access Road 275
if
$
36.00
$ 9,900
7 Gravel Parking Area 1,340
sy
$
15.00
$ 20,100
Subtotal 2 -4 Year Actions - Improvements
$ 42,500
{_ Fri � ii ��i I4,� �l'G�4�
5 74Yes�Actionsi!1 � +� �iliiii �ii i� l �,Illj f , l li� l
,4 . � ii�li� . i
5.7 Year Actions - Imurovements/Facilities
A. Property Boundary Fencing
8 Construct Post & Cable Fencing 12,000 If $ 10.00 $ 120,000
B. Property Acquisition
9 Access Easement to Property from Purcell Blvd I Is $ 5,000.00 $ 5,000
C. Trailhead Access & Parking
10 Access Road and Parking from Purcell Blvd I is $ 25,000.00 $ 25,000
Subtotal 5.7 Year Actions - Improvements $ 150,000
8 -20 Years Actions - Imorovements/Facilities
A. Lease & Park Area Access Roads & Parking
1 I Open Space & Park from Joe Martinez Ext. l is $ 60,000.00 $ 60,000
12 PMI from North/South Roadway, Ph 1 (gravel) 1 is $ 25,000.00 $ 25,000
13 PMI from North/South Roadway, Ph 2 (paved) 1 is $ 70,000.00 $ 70,000
owl
ATTACHMENT B
14
Sky Corral from Joe Martinez Ext., Ph I (gravel)
1
Is
$
20,000.00
$ 20,000
15
Sky Corral from Joe Martinez Ext., Ph I (paved)
I
Is
$
50,000.00
$ 50,000
16
OHV from Joe Martinez Ext.
I
Is
$
90,000.00
$ 90,000
B.
Non - Motorized Trails
17
Construct Concrete Bike Trails, Ph 1
2.5
mi
$
160,000.00
$ 400,000
18
Construct Concrete Bike Trails, Ph 2
2.5
mi
$
160,000.00
$ 400,000
19
Construct Concrete Bike Trails, Ph 3
1.5
mi
$
160,000.00
$ 240,000
20
Construct Concrete Bike Trails, Ph 4
1.5
mi
$
160,000.00
$ 240,000
21
Construct Soft Surfaced Trails & Overlook, Ph I
1.0
Is
$
80,000.00
$ 80,000
22
Construct Soft Surfaced Trails, Ph 2
1.0
mi
$
60,000.00
$ 60,000
23
Construct Soft Surfaced Trails, Ph 3
1.0
mi
$
60,000.00
$ 60,000
24
Construct Soft Surfaced Trails, Ph 4
0.5
mi
$
60,000.00
$ 30,000
C.
Natural Park Improvements
25
Gateway Entry along 24 St.
2.5
ac
$
40,000.00
$ 100,000
26
Trees/shrubs and drip irrigation, Ph 1
25
ac
$
8,000.00
$ 200,000
27
Trees /shrubs and drip irrigation, Ph 2
75
ac
$
8,800.00
$ 660,000
28
Restroom Facility, Ph 2
1
Is
$
300,000.00
$ 300,000
29
Trees /shrubs and drip irrigation, Ph 3
100
ac
$
9,600.00
$ 960,000
30
Picnic Shelters, Ph 3
3
ea
$
50,000.00
$ 150,000
Park Improvements - 15 % Contingency
$ 600,000
Professional Survey/Design Fees (7.5 %)
$ 300,000
Subtotal 5.20 Year Actions - Improvements
$ 5,310,000
Honor Farm Park & Open Space Project
Preliminary Estimate of Probable O & M Costs
Apra 9, 2007
Prepared by:
City of Pueblo
Planning Department
PRELIMINARY - NOT FOR CONSTRUCTION
# Item Ouantity Units Unit Price Item Subtotal
a 'did �r i� i Wn
IIOIIICdiatC AetinI15 „wtlll�m�� dr a i . lu _ilia'. . +ua�Il����I��itfl�l;!„�
Immediate Actions - Operations & Maintenance
A. Enforce City Ordinances prohibiting dumping, firearms, OHV uses
4 Police patrols (2 officers for 20 weekends) 40 days $ 600.00 $ 24,000
Subtotal Immediate Actions - O & M $ 24,000
27
ATTACHMENT B
1 -3 Years Actions - Operations & Maintenance
A. Enforce City Ordinances prohibiting dumping, firearms, OHV uses
9 Public Awareness Campaign 1 is $ 2,500.00 $
10 Police patrols (2 officers for 20 weekends) 40 days $ 600.00 $
B. Property Restoration
1 I Start Restoration of Natural Areas 1 Is $ 10,000.00 $
Subtotal 1.3 Year Actions - O & M $
s�
5 Year ACt1on6G(„_ � ..�fi wa , r. s "x , +:� w� , ,� �r'�4.. ` �,a,��;�•
11
• Itl
10,000
36,500
5 Year Actions - Operations & Maintenance
A. Enforce City Ordinances prohibiting dumping, firearms, OHV uses
15 Police patrols (2 officers for 20 weekends) 40 days $ 600.00 $ 24,000
B. Property Restoration
16 Continue Restoration of Natural Areas I is $ 10,000.00 $ 10,000
Subtotal 5 Year Actions - O & M $ 34,000
5 -20 Years Actions - Operations & Maintenance
A. Enforce City Ordinances prohibiting dumping, firearms, OHV uses
37 Police patrols (2 officers for 20 weekends) 40 days $ 600.00 $ 24,000
B. Property Restoration
38 Continue Restoration of Natural Areas 1 is $ 10,000.00 $ 10,000
C.
Developed Park & Open Space Maintenance
39
Phases 1, 2 & 3
200 ac $
40
Trail Maintenance
11.5 mi $
41
Roads & Parking Maintenance
60,000 sgft $
42
Open Space Area Maintenance
„ Actions
750 ac $
Total 5 -20 Year - annual O & M at buildout
1,000.00 $ 112,500
1,000.00 $ 11,500
0.25 $ 15,000
50.00 $ 37,500
$ 298,000
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ATTACHMENT D
HONOR FARM PARK & OPEN SPACE
Current and Potential Funding Sources
The following are current and potential funding options available for developing,
operating and maintaining the Honor Farm Park & Open Space facilities owned by the
City of Pueblo. While the City has used many of these mechanisms in the past, some of
these are new and may provide an opportunity for additional funding.
1. General Fund: This is the City's primary source for operating revenue. Most of this
revenue comes from on the sale of merchandise within the city's boundary and taxes
levied on properly. During the last fiscal year, the City appropriated approximately $60
million from this source. In a typical year, the General Fund represents about 70% of
the City's total operating budget. During the last budget year, the City allocated
approximately $3.9 million from this source to fund park and recreation operations.
2. General Obligation Bond: These are voter - approved bonds with the assessment placed
on real property. This property tax is levied for a specified period of time (usually 10 -20
years). Passage requires a majority approval by the voters. Major disadvantages of this
funding option are the approval requirement and the high interest costs. The County
recently passed a bond measure, known as Referendum A -1 which allocates
approximately $5.0 million for park rehabilitation and development. These funds have
been earmarked for other projects outside of the City's Honor Farm property.
Revenue Bonds: These bonds are sold and paid for from the revenue produced from the
operation of a facility. The City does not have any recreational facilities funded in this
manner. Since there are no major revenue producing facilities, this funding mechanism
may not be a viable alternative.
4. Donations: The donations of labor, land, or cash by service agencies, private groups or
Individuals are a popular way to raise small amounts of money for specific projects. In
the past, non - profit foundations and local service groups have been active in upgrading
or developing small projects in Pueblo.
5. Exchange of Property: In the case of the City's Honor Farm property, parcels of land
with some development value could be traded for private land more suitable for park
use. This may be a viable alternative to rearrange the boundaries of the Honor Farm
property to accommodate the master plan for the property. The exchange of property
must comply with the provisions of the conservation easement granted to the State of
Colorado at the time the property was acquired by the City.
6. Joint Public /Private Partnership: This concept sometimes referred to as "outsourcing"
has become increasingly popular for park and recreation agencies. The basic approach is
for a public agency to enter into a working agreement with a non - profit or private
corporation to help fund, build, and /or operate a public facility. Generally, the three
primary incentives a public agency can offer is the use of the City's land at a reduced or
no cost to place a facility (usually a park or other parcel of public land), certain tax
advantages and access to the facility. This type of partnership is being utilized by the
City for the operation of Pueblo Motorsports Park, Sky Corral Radio Controlled Park, the
Pueblo Zoo, the Pueblo Nature Center, and City/County Animal Control Shelter. While
the public agency may have to give up certain responsibilities or control, it is one way of
31
ATTACHMENT D
obtaining and /or operating public facilities at a lower cost. There may be the
opportunity for the City to work cooperatively through a partnership to develop an Off-
Highway Vehicle area, RV campground, and a water park within the Honor Farm that
complies with the provisions of the conservation easement granted to the State of
Colorado.
7. Intergovernmental Partnerships: The City is in a unique position to develop additional
partnerships with other jurisdictions or agencies to implement projects, operations, and
maintenance tasks identified in the plan. Some potential partners include Pueblo County,
Pueblo West Metropolitan District, Colorado State Parks, Aquila, Colorado Springs
Utilities, Colorado Department of Transportation and various other private groups.
B. State of Colorado Conservation Trust Fund: The Colorado Constitution, as amended in
1992, provides the net proceeds of the Colorado Lottery to be used for state and local
parks, recreation facilities, open space, environmental education and wildlife habitat.
The Conservation Trust Fund (CTF) is one of three funds established to accomplish
these goals. CTF receives 40% of all net lottery proceeds. The State of Colorado
distributes CTF dollars from net lottery proceeds to counties, cities, towns, and Title 32
special districts that provide park and recreation services. CTF funds are distributed
quarterly on a per capita basis. Funding can be used for the acquisition, development,
and maintenance of new conservation sites or for capital improvements or maintenance
for recreational purposes on any public site. The City of Pueblo receives approximately
$1 million dollars annually in proceeds from the Conservation Trust Fund. The CTF
funds are allocated on an annual basis as part of the budget approved by City Council.
9. Public /Government Grant Programs:
9a. Great Outdoors Colorado (GOCO): The GOCO Amendment to the state constitution
dedicates a portion of state lottery proceeds to projects that preserve, protect, and
enhance Colorado's wildlife, parks, rivers, trails, and open spaces.
GOCO's local government program awards competitive grants are awarded to counties,
municipalities and special districts to acquire, establish, expand, and enhance park,
outdoor recreation and environmental education facilities. Projects include picnic areas,
park landscaping (trees, shrubs, irrigated grass areas), ballfields, outdoor sports
complexes, skate parks, playgrounds, and swimming pools.
GOCO Large -scale and Legacy projects are of regional or statewide significance and are
encouraged to integrate the Board's funding categories of outdoor recreation, wildlife,
open space, and local government projects. They are large- scale, multi -year projects to
which GOCO has made multi - million dollar commitments. To date, Pueblo has received
three legacy project awards for the Historic Arkansas Riverwalk ($1million), Arkansas
River Legacy ($2 million), and Minnequa Lake ($2.3 million). A large -scale project in the
amount of $500 thousand has been awarded for the Historic Arkansas Riverwalk.
9b. Intermodal Surface Transportation Efficiency Act (ISTEA): Over the years, Colorado
has received considerable revenue for trail related projects. Originally called The
Intermodal Surface Transportation Efficiency Act (ISTEA), it funded a wide variety of
transportation related projects. In 1998 this program was modified some and is now
referred to as TEA21. Funding for this program had been reauthorized by the Federal
Government through FY 2005. These funds can generally be used for landscape and
amenity improvements related to trail and transportation projects. (Arkansas River Trail,
32
ATTACHMENT D
CSU- Pueblo Trail, Santa Fe Avenue landscape improvements, Pikes Plaza in the Historic
Arkansas Riverwalk)
10. Urban Renewal District: Designating an area a redevelopment district is a way of
stimulating the economic revival of blighted urban, suburban, and sometimes even rural
neighborhoods. The finance mechanism employed by such districts is called Tax
Increment Financing (TIF), and works like this. When a TIF plan is adopted, the
assessed valuation of real property within the designated redevelopment area is frozen.
Taxes are paid on the property at this base level while improvements to the area are
made, new businesses are attracted, and property values rise. Typically, any increase in
the assessed value of the property or additional sales tax revenues makes up the tax
increment, which is then used to pay project costs or repay the bonds or other
obligations that helped finance the project. By investing in a designated area, the TIF
technique has aptly been described as a means of borrowing against the speculative
gain that a project should bring. Tax increments are used for a variety of purposes,
including on -site improvements such as utilities, lights, construction of streets, and
developing parks.
11. Public Improvement Fee: A Public Improvement Fee (PIF) is a fee collected on all sales
transactions within a specific retail area. A PIF is specifically a fee and NOT a tax;
therefore, it becomes a part of the overall cost of the sale /service and is subject to sales
tax. The City of Pueblo currently collects a PIF fee of 0.5% on sales transactions at the
Pueblo Crossing Retail Center. A PIF is collected for the benefit of a public improvement
corporation and is used to finance the public improvements surrounding the retail
center. Examples of public improvements that PIF pay for are roads and bridges, water
and sewer connections, landscaping, lights, parking areas and development of parks,
open space and trails. Some sales transactions such as food for home consumption and
medical supplies are exempt from the PIF fee.
12. Business Improvement Districts: BIDS assess residents within set boundaries for
additional services, such as park maintenance and public safety. They are unique,
however, in that they establish a partnership between property owners and businesses
in commercial areas for the purpose of improving the business climate in a defined area.
Impetus for the BID generally comes from business and property owners hoping to
attract new customers by improving and maintaining public amenities such as parks,
streetscapes, or lighting along streets and pedestrian walkways. These business owners
want better city services and are willing to pay for it -- within their commercial area.
This funding mechanism permits a public agency to assess land parcels. The
assessment revenues can be used for parkland acquisition, development and /or
maintenance. Establishment . of an assessment district requires a majority vote of
property owners. The agency can choose to use the revenue generated on a pay as you
go basis or can sell bonds in order to receive a lump sum amount. The bonds are then
paid back from the annual revenue generated from the assessment.
13. Payment In -Lieu of Taxes: A payment in lieu of tax is a cash payment or services
provided at no charge to a local government. There may be a formula for computing
the payment, or it may be an amount negotiated each year. Various services also may
be provided to municipal governments as PILOTs. PILOT applies to organizations that
are exempt from the property tax who enter into voluntary agreements with local
governments to make payments in lieu of taxes.
33
ATTACHMENT D
14. Certificates of Participation: A "Certificate of Participation" (COP) is a financing
mechanism whereby a special corporation is established (either non - profit or private) to
complete a community capital project that could be for buildings, utilities, structures or
other facilities, or property developments, including streets and landscaping. The
money from the sale of the COP's is used to build the new improvement. The special
corporation finances the construction of the improvement and leases the facility to the
local, county or state government agency. The special corporation sells COP's, which
entitle the investor to a share of the lease revenues. The special corporation assigns
the proportionate undivided interests in the rights to receive the lease payment as set
up within a financing contract with the government entity. The special corporation has
the financial obligation to the COP- holders and the general revenues of the local
government agency are not formally obligated to pay back a bond.
15. User Fees: User fees are generally intended to cover the cost of providing park and
recreation services, although often times they do not. Since they are generally exempt
from tax limitation laws, user fees are an increasingly popular financing tool for local
lawmakers. Far more than federal or state governments, local governments collect the
bulk of user fees. These funds are then used to pay for park maintenance and
operations.
15a. Park Admission Fees: Park admission fees are also intended to cover the cost of
providing park and recreation services, although often times they do not fully cover
those costs. The fees are used to pay for park maintenance and operations. A down
side to admission fees is the operating costs to collect the fees. Often times gate
attendants collect the fees or a fee station is established for a self - service gate
admission. The self - service system usually requires a law enforcement presence at the
park to make sure park users have paid admission fees.
15b. Parking Fees: The use of parking fees at major park facilities, trailheads, and
other activity areas is another method of generating revenues to help in covering the
cost for park maintenance and operations. Parking fees are normally set up at areas
that have a higher number of park visitors. In some cases self- service parking fee
systems have been successfully utilized.
15c. Event Fees: Event fees can be collected as a facility charge on all paid admissions
for events regardless of the actual ticket or admission price. The proceeds can be used
maintenance and repair to the park and open space facilities, as well as the renovation
or replacement of park and open space facilities.
16. Exactions: Land dedications for public park and open space, as well as costs of
necessary public improvements that are fully or partially funded by adjacent landowners.
Examples of these public improvements could include roadways connecting to the Honor
Farm, water and sanitary sewer connections and temporary stormwater detention
facilities.
17. Public Land Trusts: Private land trusts such as the Trust for Public Land, Inc. could
potentially acquire and hold private in- holdings identified in the master plan for eventual
acquisition by the City of Pueblo.
34
ATTACHMENT E
Honor
Farah Histor
1871
Front 1971 to 1889 the Honor Farm land is homesteaded
and patents are filed on the land.
Between 1920 and 1922 the Slate Hospital, tinder the
1920
Colorado Department of Institutions, purchases 72 acres
and moves its dairy from the main hospital grounds north
of downtown Pueblo and develops a farming area on the
property north of the Arkansas River now known as the
Old Honor Farm,
1922
Eleven more acres are added to expand the dairy operation
to approximately 83 acres.
Over an 18 -year period from 1946 to 1964 an additional
1946
4,000 acres is purchased by the Colorado Department of
Institutions in anticipation of expanding its operation to
produce the needed milk and vegetables to feed nearly
6.000 patients. The northern portion of this additional
property is the City's Honor Farm recreation and open
space park.
The State Hospital Dairy became less feasible due to a decrease in patients related to the
1964
development of new medications in the late 1950's to treat patients. With new legislation in 1963-
1964 dealing with the care, treatment, and cure of the mentally ill, the operation of rite State
Hospital Dairy Farm draws to it close. Between 1964 and 1974. the State Hospital transfers the
4,000 acres of Dairy Farm land to the Colorado Division of Corrections within the Department of
Institutions, ending a 44 -year profitable and award - winning operation. The Division of
Corrections operates the Dairy Farm during this period, thus keeping the land within the
Department of htsfilutions.
In 1974, State Representative Bob Jackson of Pueblo recommends that the Dairy property be
1974
leased to the City of Pueblo as a buffer zone between Pueblo and Pueblo West and for future
recreational expansion, rather than have the State dispose of the property as surplus property. The
property is leased to the City of Pueblo for a 20 -year period. During the teen of die lease the
property is used for a motor sports park, a radio - controlled airplane area, two equestrian facilities
and as open space. Several "unorganized" uses including off road vehicles and motorcycles
started to occur on it large portion of the property. Hunting and target practice also begin taking
place on the property. Illegal dumping of (rash and tires occurs in several places.
Pueblo Motorsports Park begins hosting drag race and road course events on the 900 acres sub-
1475
leased front tile City of Pueblo.
On July 25, 1986 the Department of Corrections (formerly the Division of Cony coons) exchange
1986
the Honor Farm land with the Colorado Division of Parks. Department of Natural Resources, for
land located at Rifle State Recreation Area.
The Colorado Division of Parks approves the Honor Faint Managetmrnl Plan thin establishes
1989
management goals and guidelines to ensure that the current and fixture uses of the property are
appropriate. The plan provides two options for the management of the property including the
direct management of the property by Colorado State Parks or the indirect management of the
property by the City car another entity. The direct option with Colorado Division of Parks
managing the Honor Farm is recornmended within the Management Plan. Bill ultimately the
indirect option is implemented with the City continuing to lease 4,100 acres of the Honor Farm.
35
ATTACHMENT E
36
The City and Colorado Division of Parks agree to begin
1991
woikiug cooperatively to implement guidelines within the
- direct management" option including planning for the
acquisition of private owned in- holding parcels, surplus
land disposal, controlling access points and estahlishing use
zones and sub -lease areas.
1993
City submits wrinert notice of intent to renew lease
agreement including a description of those properties that
the City desires to include in the lease renewal.
1994
The City's tease is renewed in 1994 and continues until
June 2(X) I.
1997
The City is awarded an open space grant in the amount of
$350,(X)O from the Board of the Great Outdoors Colorado
(GOCO) to assist in the purchase of privately owned in-
holdings surrounded by the State property leased by the
City.
On June 29, 2(X)I the City trades 177 acres of in- holdings acquired with the (R)CO and City funds
2001
to Colorado State Parks and purchases 2,353 acres of the northern portion of the property leased
from the State of Colorado. As it condition of the purchase, the City grants it conservation easement
to the State of Colorado, acting by and through the Depamnaeni of Nat ual Resoutves. The City's
Honor Farm lease is terminated and the remaining 1,60) acres of the soutbern portion of the Honor
Finin is combined with Lake Pueblo State Park, except for it 2 5 -acre area leased by the City ['or the
Pueblo Raptor Center.
A Srarvey of the City and State Honor Farm properties, as well as the City's Nature ('enter property
21102
is completed by URS Corporation.
On August 8, 2005, the City accepts a quitclaim deed for 19.9 acres of property adjacem to existing
2005
City Honor Farm property from the United States Department of the Interior. The federal
government property was originally acquirers as a site for a power snb- station. The property is
transferred to the City and stipulated for park and open s pace uses.
In June, 2006, the Pueblo City Council approves it contract for the completion of the Honor Farm
2016
Park and Open Space Master Plan covering the City's portion of the Honor Farm property. The
scope of work in the Master Plan contract includes many of the management actions proposed in the
1989 Colorado Division of Parks Management Plan including evaluating access points, establishing
use zones (open space, motorized area, sub -pease areas, land dispoosal, land acquisition, ;aid the cost
for management, operation and development of the property.
In July, 2WO City Council appoints it 12- member Horair Farm Advisory Committee to work with
2006
the consultant, city staff and the general public to develop a park and open space master plan
recommending goals and policies for the operation, management, and development for the City's
Honor Farm p roperty to City Council for approval.
In JLdy, 2(Nx) City Council approves ordinances that allow for the City's traffic code, along with the
2006
trespass ordinance to be enforced within the City's Honor Farm property.
In October, 2006, Colorado State Parks and the City jointly fund the construction of a barbed -wire
2006
boundary fence between the northern portion of the property acquired by the City and the SOmhem
portion of the property retained by the State of Colorado.
In July, 2(X)7 City Council approves the Honor Farm Park and Open Space. Master Plan based on the
2007
Honor Farnn Advisory Committee's recommendations for operation, management and development
of the City's properly.
36
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