News Desk

Watch the new video: Estes Park:  A Great Place to Visit, A Great Place to Live. 

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For more information on the Town of Estes Park government, please e-mail Kate Rusch, Public Information Officer, or call 970-577-3701.

For information on Estes Park travel and tourism, visit the Estes Park Convention & Visitors Bureau website.

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Town of Estes Park Press Releases

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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Holiday Tree Drop-Off Site Open Through January 19, 2009

December 18, 2008

The Town of Estes Park's Holiday Tree Drop-Off site will be open now through January 19, 2009.    This service is for real trees only and is free of charge to Estes Park residents.

The site is located south of the Senior Center on Fourth Street (follow the signs) and will only take trees that have been stripped of all ornaments, tinsel, and/or other decorations.  No wreaths, tree stands, or garland will be accepted through this program.

For more information, please contact the Town of Estes Park Parks Department at 577-3785.

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Town to Launch Solar Rebate Program in Partnership with the Governor's Energy Office in Early 2009

Residential Rebates Available for Solar Electricity (Photovoltaic Systems)

December 16, 2008

The Town of Estes Park is pleased to announce it has been selected by The Governor's Energy Office (GEO) and the Colorado Solar Energy Industries Association (CoSEIA) to administer its Solar Rebate Program in Estes Park and the neighboring communities of Allenspark and Glen Haven, beginning in February, 2009.

The Solar Rebate Program was created by the Governor's Energy Office (GEO) in response to the growing demand for renewable energy initiatives to allow homeowners to harness Colorado's abundant solar resources. The Colorado Solar Energy Industries Association is administering the program for the GEO. The Program is designed to extend rebates for solar technologies to Colorado residents and businesses throughout the state. The GEO provides matching grants to Program Partners with the goal of developing local solar rebate programs. By partnering with cities, utilities, and non-profit organizations through a matching grant program, the funding for rebates is effectively doubled. 

Estes Park Light & Power (EPL&P) customers who invest in photovoltaic (PV) systems may be eligible for rebates as part of the program. By providing matching funds to a $25,000 grant from the GEO, EPL&P will provide cash rebates for the installation of solar PV at the rate of $3/Watt up to $9,000.  PV systems for this program must conform to EPL&P's interconnection agreement and cannot exceed a capacity of 10 kW.  The rebates will allow customers to install solar systems at considerable savings.

According to CoSEIA, a combination of the GEO rebates and tax credits can save 50-55% on solar PV electric installations. In addition to these savings, these systems can save anywhere from $250-500 per year in energy costs. The Program also helps Colorado achieve its Climate Action Plan carbon reduction goals and increase Colorado's energy independence.

The Town of Estes Park will begin accepting rebate applications in early 2009. The application will be reviewed and upon approval, The Town will provide customers with a Rebate Reservation. Customers will have 90 days from the date of the reservation to complete the installation process.

To learn more about the program and how to receive a rebate, visit www.estesnet.com/LightPower/lightandpower.aspx,   www.coseia.org, or www.colorado.gov/energy.   For more information, contact Mike Mangelsen, Assistant to the Utilities Director, 577-3583 or CoSEIA/ Program Administrator, 303.604.4414

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Town Opts for High-Efficiency LED Lighting for Holiday Decorations

November 18, 2008

The Town of Estes Park will be lighting the annual Rebar Holiday Trees this week, all 130 of them fitted with high-efficiency LED colored light bulbs.  The trees, which have been displayed on area street light poles since 1955, have been traditionally lit with incandescent bulbs; two of the trees were refitted with LED bulbs last season to test their efficiency.

Based on that test, and results from the blue LED string lights on "Sheep Island," Estes Park Light & Power decided to refit all the rebar trees.  The two "Season's Greetings" signs have also been refitted with LEDs.

 "The reason for this change is to reduce our power requirements, cutting our carbon emissions, while maintaining a treasured local holiday tradition," said Mike Mangelsen, Assistant Director of Utilities.  Mangelsen has been managing the holiday lighting program for the Town of Estes Park for 12 years, when the lighting program was first contracted out.  The successful low bidder for the past two seasons for the installation and maintenance of the holiday lighting,  including the rebar trees, is the local company TA Enterprises, Inc.

The 2007-2008 LED test showed that while LED bulbs cost about five times as much as incandescent bulbs, they have only 1/3 the energy demand and last more than 26 times as long (80,000 hours of burn time as compared to 3,000).

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Marys Lake Substation Upgrade Complete

New 25 MVA Transformers Create Redundancy and Reliability in Distribution System

November 12, 2008

The new Marys Lake Substation went on line in phases over the past week; approximately 30% of the load was put on the transformers on Friday, November 07, and the remainder of the load was put on line on Monday, November 10.

The two 25 megawatt transformers at the upgraded Marys Lake Substation provide redundancy and reliability in the local distribution system by having the exact same capacity as the Estes Park Substation, located at Lake Estes next to the Bureau of Reclamation's Estes Park hydro-electric plant.

Continuing improvements in the distribution system are scheduled through 2010, including undergrounding while increasing the size of lines in certain areas.  These upgrades will prepare Estes Park Light & Power to meet the needs of our customers for years to come.

The old substation at the Marys Lake site was originally constructed sometime in the 1970s with one 10 MW transformer; a second 10 MW transformer was added in the 1980s.  Due to the smaller size of these transformers and the age of the switchgear, the Town of Estes Park Trustees approved a plan to upgrade the substation in 2007.

In May of this year, the Marys Lake Substation went off line and the switch gear building containing old and obsolete equipment was demolished.  The new transformers were removed that month as well, sold to the City of Loveland for $70,000.  The two 25 MW transformers, each weighing more than 80,000 pounds were delivered (on two separate trucks) and installed in July.  Hurricane Ike delayed the delivery of the new switchgear building, manufactured in Houston, until the end of October.  Work was scheduled to be completed before the onset of the colder weather and subsequently, our peak season when the load can be as high as 26 MW due to electric heating.

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2008 Collector Christmas Ornament Now Available

October 15, 2008

Each year since 1986, Town employees create a commemorative Christmas ornament available for sale to the public. The 2008 design commemorates the Rooftop Rodeo and will be available at four locations:  Town Hall,  170 MacGregor Avenue; Estes Park Museum, 200 4th Street; the Estes Park Visitor's Center, 500 Big Thompson Avenue; and, at Peak Hallmark Shop, Upper Stanley Village.  A limited number of 2007 ornaments are also available at Town Hall.

Each ornament is $8.50 if picked up at the locations above.  Ornaments may also be ordered by mail (checks only, please) by sending your request to:

Town of Estes Park - Helping Hands Committee - PO Box 1200 - Estes Park, CO 80517.

With shipping and handling, the following charges apply:

1 ornament: $8.50 + 2.00 (s&h) = $10.50

2 ornaments: $17 + $3.00 (s&h) = $20.00

3 ornaments: $25.50 + $4.55 (s&h) = $30.05

4 ornaments: $34 + $5.25 (s&h) = $39.25

For each ornament sold, a portion of the proceeds will be donated to local families needing assistance. 

For more information, please contact Tracy Feagans at 577-3588 or visit www.estes.org/LightPower/ChristmasOrnamentsCurrentYear.htm

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Town Adds Hybrid to the Light & Power Fleet

October 8, 2008

The Town of Estes Park purchased a 2009 Ford Escape Hybrid for the Light & Power Department on September 19. "This will give us an opportunity to test the efficiency of a hybrid vehicle in commercial use in the mountains," said Dave Mahany, Public Works Superintendent.  This electric hybrid joins three other alternative fuel vehicles in the Town of Estes Park's fleet, "we also have three GM pickups that are E85 compatible," said Mahany. 

"The new Ford Escape is a great addition to the Town of Estes Park's fleet and is consistent with our commitment to environmental responsibility," said Mayor Bill Pinkham.

"Earlier this year, we discussed emerging technologies such as hydrogen or propane-powered vehicles with Honda's Alternative Fuels Group in Torrance, California, and they recommended the Ford Escape as best suited to our need for a hybrid SUV," Pinkham said.  "We will continue to evaluate vehicle purchases as based on our needs and developing green vehicle options."

The vehicle was purchased from Sill-Terhar Motors in Broomfield under the state-bid contract of $27,179.  The hybrid functions by utilizing its gasoline engine under load, and is powered with electricity in light-use mode.  This vehicle is rated 30 mpg (highway); in use so far the vehicle has achieved 35 mpg in mountain driving, said Mahany.

"I'm impressed with its power and comfort," said Michael Mangelsen, Assistant Director of Utilities, "and I'm glad we are achieving our business needs with alternative transportation, cutting our carbon emissions."

www.estes.org/publicworks/Fleet/default.aspx

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Town and County Now Accepting Applications for Advisory Board Members for Local Marketing District

The Town of Estes Park and the Larimer County Board of Commissioners are accepting applications from people who are interested in serving in an advisory capacity to the Estes Park Local Marketing District.  To serve, you must live within the defined Local Marketing District (LMD) boundaries, which are the same as Recreation District Boundaries within Larimer County.  The boundaries include the Town, County surrounding Estes Park down Hwy 7 to Boulder County and Glen Haven.

The Town Board will appoint five people and the Board of County Commissioners will appoint two people, all of whom will be chosen as long as they reside within the district boundaries.  The interview panel will consist of representatives from the Town, County, the Chamber of Commerce, and the Estes Area Lodging Association.  The interviews will take place in September and appointments will be made the same month. 

In order to be considered for the advisory board, you must have lived in the LMD defined district for at least 12 continuous months and continue to live within the district boundaries during your entire term as a Director.  Experience in one or more of the following areas will be strongly considered:  business, marketing, finances, economic development, tourism development, print and/or electronic media, special events, and conference activities.   You must also be willing to devote the time required to do the job.

The advisory board appointments are considered temporary and eventual appointments to the LMD Board are contingent upon the passing of the two ballot questions, one to create the LMD and one to levy a 2% marketing and promotion tax (lodging tax).  The duties of advisory board members appointed in September will be to help promote the Local Marketing District and the two ballot questions which will be before the voters in November.

If the ballot questions are passed, the duties of the LMD board will include creating an operations plan and administering the Local Marketing District.  The LMD board would receive the money collected from the 2% marketing and promotion tax and operate as a separate public entity from the Town and County.

A Local Marketing District is allowed under state statutes only after a vote of the registered electors within the defined district.   The steps already taken to place this issue on the November ballot include:  petitions signed by at least 50% of the owners of the assessed value of commercial property within district; two public hearing were held June 5 and June 26 and an Intergovernmental agreement between the Town and the County was signed.

Money collected from the 2% marketing and promotion tax can be used by the LMD for only the following purposes: Organize, promote, market and manage public events; Activities in support of business recruitment, management and development; and Coordination of tourism promotion activities.

The 2% marketing and promotion tax would be paid only by visitors for nightly rentals of 30 days or fewer at accommodations establishments, including vacation and short-term rentals, within the district.  The 2% tax WILL NOT be paid anywhere else like grocery stores, retail, restaurants, amusement, or any other businesses that collects sales tax.

If the Local Marketing District passes in November, the final appointments to the LMD Board will take place following the election for four (4) year terms.  The terms shall be staggered so that two (2) members are appointed each year and one (1) member in the fourth year.

Click here for an application, or contact Town Clerk Jackie Williamson at 577-3702.  A completed application and current resume must be received by Monday, September 8, 2008 at 5 p.m. in order to be considered.

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