City Annual Report 20

ANNUAL REPORT 2020

What will be the future vision for the next 50 years? The Mountain Area Master Plan tackled that question by engaging with the community to create a shared vision for the mountain area that focuses on economic vitality, identity and mobility opportunities and improvements. 2 CITY OF STEAMBOAT SPRINGS Cover Photo: Justin Hirsch

FROM THE CITY MANAGER Well, the first two and half months of 2020 were certainly block- Notwithstanding all the distractions and events surrounding the buster. There was great snow, events were successful, and town community, City Council and staff accomplished some impressive and the both ski areas were busy with happy visitors and thriving achievements. Key successes included enacting an updated bear businesses. ordinance; hiring a new Fire Chief and Deputy City Manager; developing Master Plans for the Mountain Area, Transportation & Then came mid-March. We all know what happened then-the first Mobility, and Airport; finalizing the Steamboat Springs Winter cases of COVID-19 hit locally. The ski area closed, businesses shut Sports Club Alpine Slide Agreement; and, securing new tenants for down, the streets became vacant and uncertainty set in. the Airport Office Building and 840 Yampa Street. Even with this extensive list, I’ve barely touched upon all that city staff The city was required to respond quickly and with purpose. Ten has accomplished in the past year despite formidable challenges. percent wage reductions and 20% budget cuts were implemented. However, we wouldn’t be as effective without an engaged community New and innovative ways to do business and provide city services like you. Your input is vital as we address issues such as financial arose across all departments. sustainability, affordable housing, transportation, community character and fire services. But no one knew exactly what to do in the event of a global pandemic. Looking ahead, council has established new goals and the coming There was no manual. Even our well-written emergency all-hazard year is expected to feel much like 2020, as vaccines take hold and plans did not address such a situation. society begins to return to the new normal. I ask you to remain engaged and actively contribute in the process. The response by the community was impressive. It was all hands On behalf of a dedicated staff, your engagement and participation this on deck. Coordination and collaboration with the county, hospital, past year is greatly appreciated. The community’s understanding, school district, chamber, non-profits, and others in the community cooperation and support is greatly valued as the city navigates its were unprecedented. way through the remainder of this pandemic. Hopefully, as the 2021/22 winter season approaches, our community Of note were the daily morning briefings held by City Council will quickly return to its thriving, authentic and welcoming self. President Jason Lacy and County Commissioner Beth Melton. They Respectfully, provided vital information, calming words, and the confidence that we all needed during these trying times. Gary Suiter, City Manager Nearly all events were canceled for the remainder of the year. ANNUAL REPORT 2020 Throughout this pandemic, city employees have continued to perform their duties admirably, putting themselves at risk, while keeping the city safe and services functioning. Cover Photo: Cyndi Marlowe 3

STEAMBOAT SPRINGS CITY COUNCIL Jason Lacy Kathi Meyer Robin Crossan Lisel Petis SERVE YOUR COMMUNITY, President, At-Large Pro-Tem, District II District I District I rcrossan@ lpetis@ Be on a Board, Committee or Commission jlacy@ kmeyer@ steamboatsprings.net steamboatsprings.net steamboatsprings.net steamboatsprings.net Community Development Board of Adjustment Michael Buccino Sonja Macys Heather Sloop Historic Preservation Commission District II District III District III Planning Commission smacys@ hsloop@ Urban Redevelopment Authority Advisory (Term began 11/2019) mbuccino@ steamboatsprings.net steamboatsprings.net Committee Yampa Valley Housing Authority steamboatsprings.net Economic Development Local Marketing District 2A Trails Committee Parks & Recreation Golf Management Committee Ice Rink Advisory Committee Parks & Recreation Commission Transportation Yampa Valley Airport Commission VISION STATEMENT MISSION STATEMENT VALUES To preserve our past while assuring We plan, partner, and provide for superior Friendliness • Integrity • Respect an economically, culturally and services and a safe environment in our Stewardship • Teamwork environmentally sustainable future. thriving authentic community. 4 CITY OF STEAMBOAT SPRINGS

2020-21 CITY COUNCIL GOALS FISCAL SUSTAINABILITY Focus on diversification of city revenues; regular monitoring of revenues and expenses; mainte- nance of quality of life including attainable housing; economic development including broadband infrastructure, business retention, expansion, and recruitment; dedicated funding mechanisms TRANSPORTATION & MOBILITY Adopt Transportation Master Plan and prioritize implementation funding, pursuit of partnerships, continue Innovative Task Force discussions, regional planning approach including exploration of RTA; continue recovery and resilience efforts; align efforts with Climate Action Plan. ENVIRONMENTAL SUSTAINABILITY Continue with solar grant projects, EV Readiness Plan, pursuit of DOLA grants, adopt the Climate Action Plan including prioritization and implementation HOUSING Implement short term rental licensing program and modify short term rental policies; implement policies and legislation that support attainable housing, including review of “family” definition; identify opportunities and partnerships for city employee housing; review WSSAP with County Commissioners FIRE STATION Select a downtown site; develop financing options; research Mountain Station expansion. ONGOING CITY COUNCIL EFFORTS (NON-PRIORITIZED) Diversity, Equity & Inclusion (DEI) Charter Review Base Area Plan Long Term Water Planning CELEBRATING SERVICE The following individuals celebrated service milestones during 2020. 25 Years 15 Years 10 Years 5 Years David Van Winkle, Streets Gabe Gassaway, Transit Mark Billerbeck, IT Liz Neidel, Finance Justin Benson, Water Stuart King, Public Works Paul Gilbertson, Fire Alex Cornett, Transit James McElroy, Golf 20 Years Dave Hasselton, Fire Tyler Kern, Transit Adam Sando, Golf Terisa Childers, Facilities Neal Obray, Wastewater Steve Jegtvig, Parks Brian McGovern, Fire Robert Printy, Transit Julie Franklin, City Clerk Jon Snyder, Public Works Brad Setter, Parks Cory Christensen, Police Christopher Voyvdic, Fire Tom Martindale, Streets Paul Zywicki, Streets Matthew Workman, Fire Kelly Douglas, Planning Greg Griffin, Police Louis Gutschenritter, Fire Shawn Jenkins, Police ANNUAL REPORT 2020 5

A section along US Highway 40 motored into a new use as a Bus on Shoulder (BOS) lane dedicated to Steamboat Springs Transit buses which allow transit drivers to cruise along during congested travel conditions. 6 CITY OF STEAMBOAT SPRINGS

FINANCIAL DASHBOARD SALES TAX COLLECTION SALES TAX CATEGORIES The city relies heavily on sales tax to provide infrastructure and municipal Although the city is heavily reliant on sales tax, the categorical mix of services. Sales tax makes up 67% of the city’s General Fund operations where sales tax comes from is diverse. The city receives about 35-40% of which provides general operations, public safety, public works, parks & its sales tax from tourism and the remaining 60-65% from residents. recreation, and community development. This comes in the form of sales tax on groceries, utilities, home improvement In terms of sales tax collections, the city was off to a great start in January materials, restaurants, and other miscellaneous retail sales. and February of 2020 with sales tax collections 8% higher than 2019 in January and 14% higher than 2019 in February. However, in mid-March the Here is a breakdown of the categories in which the city collected sales tax Ski Mountain was forced to close due to the pandemic and tourism had a in 2020: steep decline with March and April’s sales tax collections dipping well over 20% down from the previous year. Sales Tax Collections With such a strong reliance on tourism and sales tax to fund operations, By Category Construction & Home Improv. 13% Utilities the city amended the budget downward in April 2020 and prepared for a 7% 30% monthly drop in sales tax. Expenditures were reduced and the use Grocery Stores & Food of reserves seemed inevitable. However, as the months rolled by sales Sellers 16% Sporting Goods tax collections outpaced the amended budget and overall sales tax 6% collections were about 2% below 2019. Liquor Stores Restaurants Year-Over-Year City Sales Tax Collections By Month 4% 14% Lodging & Amenities Miscellaneous Retail 21% 17% Marijuana 2% General Fund Expenditures Community Development By Category Debt & Transfers 8% 3% Legal & Municipal Court 2% Parks & Recreation Public Safety 16% 25% EXPENSES Public Works General 22% Government The city has several different areas of expenditures reported in multiple funds, representing a total budget of approximately $75M in 2020. Focusing 24% specifically on basic operations of the city, here is how the $40M General Fund budget was allocated: ANNUAL REPORT 2020 7

Oak Street was one of several roadways to be paved as part of the city’s annual paving program. 8 CITY OF STEAMBOAT SPRINGS

SPUR CHANGE We love our city and community! As such, we all share the responsibility to enhance the mountain environment we so cherish. Sustainability is not an end goal but is a journey that the city is taking to improve the social, environmental, and economic conditions. The city’s’ vision specifically includes sustainability and is “to preserve our past while assuring an economically, culturally and environmentally sustainable future.” The following are a few ways the city, along with its partners, is working to spur change steamboatsprings.net/spurchange Bears – Lock the Lid Solar & Water Conservation EV Readiness Council found that there were an SolSmart The city and Mount Coloradans are increasing number of bear Steamboat Springs Werner Water & Sanitation supportive of electric encounters in urban areas of the and Routt County District adopted the 2020 vehicles (EV) as city. are helping solar Water Conservation Plan evident by the state’s companies greatly and implemented a new #6 national ranking for When wildlife has access to trash, reduce the cost of watering schedule. EV adoption they are drawn closer to homes installations and friendliness. and businesses which creates pass those savings The community moved to potentially dangerous situations on to consumers. a new watering schedule Each year more EV between the animals and people. that limits outdoor models are becoming This allows even more local watering to three days per week. increasingly available and people The new ordinance requires all homes and businesses to obtain Currently, around 30% of the are trading in their gas-powered trash containers to be certified as affordable, clean, and reliable treated water supply is applied vehicles and switching to electric. bear resistant by the Interagency electricity through solar. One outdoors to lawns Grizzly Bear Committee and example is the new solar and gardens. The city and county along dumpsters or dumpster checklist the county building with HDR, and Urban enclosures to be bear resistant by department established outlining Historically, these Design Collaboration 2023. essential steps in the solar restrictions were developed the roadmap for process. implemented only the EV Readiness Plan in during drought 2020. The city and county were conditions. recognized by SolSmart with Silver designations. FORWARD Sign Code Mental Health Historic Heritage Audubon Sanctuary Mind Springs Health and SSPD St. Paul’s Episcopal Church joined Sustainability was core to Haymaker FOR THE A multi-year rewrite of the Sign Code created a 24-hour co-responder seven landmarks and twenty Golf Course in 2000 when it first set program where a mental health iconic and historical resources its philosophy. Now, the course has FUTURE spelled out the approved standards counselor responds with a patrol that represent the Yampa Valley been recognized for 20 years as an for signage. The process considered officer when dispatchers receive as the newest location to be Audubon Signature Sanctuary and mental health-related calls. placed on the Register of the environment is still just as key. community character, visual impacts, Historical Places. and regulations coming out of a Supreme Court case. ANNUAL REPORT 2020 9

DEPARTMENT HIGHLIGHTS DEPUTY CITY MANAGER that required a near instant shift to a mobile workforce. Over 100 new laptop devices were purchased and deployed, and every A new Deputy City Manager (DCM) was announced in April 2020. existing pc or laptop was configured to support remote computing. The new executive position incorporates elevated city responsibilities Rapid deployment of Microsoft Teams and Zoom technology to ensure seamless continuity of government. As second in charge, allowed employees, City Council, and boards/commissions to the DCM oversees the city clerk, communications, facilities, infor- continue efficient collaboration despite the disruptive conditions. mation systems, and intergovernmental services. Major projects included the creation of a City Hub intranet, major remodel of the AV systems that support Citizens Hall, and upgrades City Clerk: The office of the city clerk provides city information to to data center storage and server capacity. the community through posting meeting agendas, packets and minutes for the Steamboat Springs City Council, Steamboat Springs Intergovernmental Services (IGS): IGS wrote 38 grants in 2020, Liquor Licensing Authority and Steamboat Springs Redevelopment which brought in nearly $6 million for identified city projects. In Authority. Information is online and available upon request through addition, the department coordinated the 2A Trails Initiative, the Colorado Open Records Act. In 2020, there were 135 open managed the Community Survey and Lock the Lid Bear/Trash records requests, 112 liquor licenses, 35 permitted events and 38 Campaign, sustainability projects, and led an abbreviated City 101 city council meetings that adopted 49 resolutions, approved 47 leadership program due to the pandemic. ordinances, and declared 3 proclamations. FIRE RESCUE Facilities: Under the leadership of a new Facility Manager, the division maintains 134 facilities and structures across the city as well as Steamboat Springs Fire Rescue (SSFR) serves the city and surrounding manages several capital projects. During the past year, the Fire Protection District, a 384 square mile area with an estimated department was responsible for 829 work orders, 22 planned main- base population of 20,000 people, with upwards of 35,000 people tenance projects and oversaw the 840 Yampa lease to Big Agnes. including visitors, with 24/7 protection. SSFR is the only paramedic In addition, it also coordinated the COVID-19 response for all city level service in Routt County and provides paramedic services facilities including supplying hand sanitizer and masks, installing 51 when requested by other agencies in the county through mutual touchless faucets, 16 touchless bottle fillers and countless touch aid agreements. free light switches and door openers, and adding air ionization equipment in all facilities with air handling units. As the deferred • The department saw the arrival of a new Fire Chief with the maintenance backlog is addressed, the overall condition of facilities retirement of Chief Mel Stewart, along with filling the positions continues to improve. of Deputy Fire Chief, Captain and Training Lieutenant internally. Information Systems (IT): IT conducts major upgrades and carries out critical and day-to-day technological operations needed to • During 2020, SSFR responded to 2,297 calls for service, a keep the city’s storage of information safe and secure and the decrease over 2019 calls (2,511) and a 5.4% increase over past technical operations and equipment running seamlessly. In 2020, the IT department managed the disruption of the global pandemic 10 CITY OF STEAMBOAT SPRINGS

five years. Response efforts took on entirely new protocols due The Steamboat Springs Airport served as a firefighting heli-base for a variety to COVID-19. of helicopters working wildfires in the area. • Long-term drought and its effects were felt considerably more this past year with the incredibly active wildfire season across the state and the close to home Middle Fork Fire. Local agencies are working together through the newly formed Routt County Wildfire Mitigation Council to address threats, property protection and education. • In non-emergent services, Fire Prevention handled inspections and permit reviews virtually due to the pandemic while seeing an increase of 20% in revenues from volume. The 2018 International Fire Code was adopted. • Command staff continues to actively participate in citizen com- mittees for fire funding and station site location initiatives along with a fresh approach to strategic planning. HUMAN RESOURCES Supporting nearly 250 full-time employees and up to 350-400 employees including seasonal employees, HR is responsible for Employee Relations, Recruitment & Retention, Compensation Management, Legal Compliance, Training & Development, Performance Management, Benefits Management & Administration, as well Risk Management. Risk Management is responsible for all workers compensation and property casualty losses. The city strives to be effective in risk management through proactive means to reduce both the possibility of a risk occurring and its impact. PARKS & RECREATION Parks: Outdoor space was at a premium due to the pandemic which impacted Fetcher Park/Pond and recreation along the Yampa River. The increased use resulted in new dust road abatement, rebuilding the pond peninsula with boulders, and struggles to tackle trash along the river corridor. Golf & Sport Solutions added 175 tons of new infield mix and laser leveled the yellow field at Emerald Park. In addition, parks took over median and streetscape maintenance and installed new fencing, trees, and a welcome kiosk at Rita Valentine Park with funding from Steamboat Digs Dogs. ANNUAL REPORT 2020 11

Several A-Frame buildings, which mimicked the high peak style of the Slapshots, spins and combinations echoed across Howelsen Park as two historic lodge and tow house, showcased a new way to enjoy the ski area. new outdoor ice rinks opened to the community. Open Space & Trails: Trail use increased significantly while staffing virtual race was held in July with funds going to the COVID19 Relief levels decreased due to COVID-19 impacts. Staff partnered with Fund. As summer blossomed, additional events were hosted due Routt County Riders to build an alternative trail around the section to new registration and online systems including the Yampa River of Spring Creek known as ‘The Wall’, Rocky Mountain Youth Corp Clean Up, five race Town Challenge Ski Ascent Series (record for seven weeks of trail work on the new Prayer Flag Trail re-reroute participation) and 16 Ski Free Sunday events at Howelsen Hill. on Emerald; and Rita Valentine Dog Park. Both the Spring Roll Additionally, the Howelsen Hill Endowment grew through fundraising downhill bike trail and Ditch hiking trail were completed in the efforts like Yampa Valley Gives Day, Specialty Merchandise, Spring Creek Canyon. Adopt a Trail volunteers donated 100 hours Opening Day, and Token Tuesday. of service to help clean and monitor trail conditions. Howelsen Hill Park: Season operations closed earlier due to the Recreation: Youth Programs saw several transitions through the pandemic; however, Nordic grooming and access to trails continued year. Programs were eliminated from mid-March through the end daily for an additional month. Unfortunately, the Summer Pro Rodeo of the school year due to COVID-19. Summer camps began on July Series was canceled but the complex served as a COVID-19 testing 5 with reduced capacities and were targeted towards Routt County center. Snowmaking cranked up and Howelsen Hill successfully working families. Due to the hybrid school model, Education opened under tight health protocols for the 2020/21 season. The Exploration was offered only for the fall and winter. After school ski area moved to daily operations and unveiled new A-Frame programs were not offered. Huts, concessionaire and liquor license permitting beer and wine. Ski Free Sunday moved to a reservation system and continues with Marketing/Special Events/Volunteers: While marketing initiatives strong participation. Looking to utilize every snowflake, a free faded a bit into the background this past year, communication community sledding hill grew within the rodeo arena. The Sulphur efforts were significantly amplified during the pandemic. Even with Cave & Spring was nominated for National Natural Landmark status the summer Town Challenge MTB Race Series canceled, one (received in 2021) by the National Park Service. 12 CITY OF STEAMBOAT SPRINGS

Botanic Park staff tend to one of the parks gardens which A special brew, Howelsen Haze IPA was untapped by The Ski Ascent series returned for its second season and provided refreshing outdoor space during the pandemic. local brewer Mountain Tap honoring the historic ski area. saw record participation. Howelsen Ice Complex: Despite constantly changing COVID-19 Merchandiser of the Year and once again recognized by Golf Week related restrictions, the Ice Arena made extraordinary efforts to Magazine as the #4 golf course in Colorado to play. implement, construct, and maintain the outdoor community ice rinks located at the tennis courts in Howelsen Park. This privately Yampa River Botanic Park: During the pandemic, the Botanic funded and staff-maintained amenity was met with unparalleled Park served as an oasis for many in the community, safely hosting enthusiasm, and set a precedent moving for the need and support several local nonprofit outdoor events. Projects and programs for additional cost-effective ice. Pre-COVID-19, and during the last blossomed across the facility due in large part to $20,500 in grants 5-6 years the ice arena has been one of, if not the most, financially from various organizations. The Coreopsis Garden was renovated successful municipally run operation. Pandemic impacts to the and transformed into a Plant Selection Demonstration Garden. bottom line did not go unnoticed in the 2020 fiscal year. However, 2020 saw the first full year for the park’s executive director as well even despite a lengthy closure and limited programming, cost as its first Horticulture intern. recovery remained within the council approved model designation- 50-80% cost recovery. Tennis Center at Steamboat: 2020 was a year of historic chal- lenges for the Center including a 2.5-month closure due to the Haymaker Golf Course: With the increased demand for outdoor pandemic. Amazingly, despite operating under strict COVID-19 recreation during the pandemic, Haymaker served as a refuge for mitigation plans, the center brought in more revenue than all of many Steamboat Springs residents in our busiest year on record. 2019. Expenses were up due to fewer students per instructor ratio 18-hole rounds saw an increase of 45% while total revenue and additional staff required to disinfect and assist patrons with increased by 32%. Nearly all the increased rounds came from health protocols. The Steamboat Relishes Pickleball capital Steamboat Springs residents. Despite inventory supply issues campaign continues to make significant progress surpassing the throughout the year, staff was able to increase retail sales by 14%. $1.5 million milestone and the Serve It Forward endowment fund Haymaker was awarded the Colorado PGA West Chapter has grown to $190,000. ANNUAL REPORT 2020 13

The Ice Complex was transformed into a COVID-19 overflow from the Steamboat Springs Police stopped by local girl scout cookie stands as part UCHealth Yampa Valley Medical Center. Luckily the need never arose. of the Uniform to Uniform badge program. PLANNING & COMMUNITY DEVELOPMENT Zone, and drafted and adopted an Airport Overlay Zone. Planning received and processed 231 development applications Staff successfully completed a Community Rating System (CRS) and 595 building permits in 2020. While this represented a 7% 5-year Cycle Verification process that maintained the city’s CRS decrease in development applications from 2019, it was a 34% Class 7 rating. The city’s CRS rating has a direct impact on flood increase in building permits from the previous year. Effective insurance rates paid by property owners. The city received a January 1, 2020, the Planning Commission exercised new approval $31,800 State Historical Fund grant to complete a historic architec- authority for certain development application types, allowing the tural context and survey of historic residential and commercial Commission to make a final decision on 13 of the total 36 projects properties in the Mountain Area. Completion of the project is antic- they reviewed. Only one decision has been appealed to City ipated in 2021. Council. To increase public awareness, the department’s public notice requirements were amended to require a public notice sign In response to the pandemic, the Department seamlessly moved be posted on properties proposed for development sooner in the to a virtual platform for all public hearings and nearly all meetings review process. and communication with applicants and citizens. In addition, the department transitioned to paperless applications and full digital In addition to ongoing development review, the Mountain Area plan review. Master Plan kicked off to engage the community in creating a vision for the future of the Mountain Area. The plan focuses on economic POLICE SERVICES vitality, identity, and mobility opportunities and improvements to the Gondola Transit Center and Ski Time Square Drive. Plan adoption is Twenty-nine sworn police officers and 14 support personnel anticipated mid-year 2021. Planning also completed a multi-year provide around the clock public safety services amid the COVID19 rewrite of the Sign Code, readopted the Entry Corridor Overlay pandemic. 2020 was a year of adjusting to ever-changing court requirements, jail intake parameters, and custodial arrest 14 CITY OF STEAMBOAT SPRINGS

Playgrounds and many facilities sat empty due to public health restrictions during the pandemic. Photo: Sarah Glassmeyer ANNUAL REPORT 2020 15

requirements. There were also adjustments that came with the The sun sets over Bob Adams Field which remained opened to aircraft and unfunded Colorado mandate Senate Bill 20-217 which placed essential emergency services like Classic Air Medical during the pandemic. additional administrative work on Steamboat Springs Police Department. SSPD worked closely with the Municipal and County PUBLIC WORKS Court in meeting the needs of our community. Airport: Bob Adams Field saw a 20% increase in air traffic and set a • 16,308 calls for service (+10% YOY), all of which required the record in jet fuel sales. There were an estimated 12,000 takeoffs/ attention of a police officer, community service or animal landings, with 11,087 takeoffs/landings observed during working control officer. hours. A total of 120,125 gallons of aviation gasoline and jet fuel were sold, which was the third highest total volume of fuel sold • 752 citations were issued including 407 warnings. since record keeping began in 1997. Within that total, the 78,036 gallons of jet fuel sold was a record for the calendar year. Record • 129 Records Checks and 525 Report Copies, all of which sales were attributed to an increase in general aviation due to require the service attention and processing of the Records COVID-19 as well as serving as a wildland firefighting helicopter Division. The Records are the first employees to greet and base. Firefighting helicopters were staged at the airport from July help citizens who are seeking assistance. 10 through August 1, and again from September 12 through November 7. The facility served as a vital resource in transporting • Animal Control had a total of 1,662 (+30%) calls for service, pandemic patients to the Front Range for hospitalization. Most of including 55 (-13%) bite reports. In addition, ACOs conducted the Airport Master Plan update was completed in 2020, setting the public education and outreach programs to schools and stage for capital improvements over the next decade. businesses. Engineering: 357 development applications (down 13% from 2019) • 374 bear related calls saw bears in trash and sightings in city and 523 building permits (up 24% from 2019) were reviewed over limits. the course of the year. Notable project reviews included Sunlight Phase 3, Sunlight Crossings, Core Trail Apartments, Overlook Park, • Unveiled new co-responder partnership with Mind Springs, KOA Campground, Longview Highlands, Thunderhead Station, and which aims to divert individuals with behavioral health Basecamp. Inspections were performed for Sunlight Phases 1 & 2, conditions from involvement in the criminal justice system Urban Street, Flattops Village, Residence Inn, Alpenglow Village, and instead engage in appropriate mental health treatment. The program builds a cohesive team of first responders and mental health professionals to meet the needs of our community. • The DORS online reporting system was unveiled to increase service to the community and enable online crime reporting. • Investigations division handled several major cases including 13 sex assault cases that resulted in charges. Detectives instructed Alcohol Service Classes and offered Fraud Awareness to the senior community. 16 CITY OF STEAMBOAT SPRINGS

On the wish list for many years, the new downtown public bathroom Streets hangs a banner over Lincoln Avenue which congratulated the opened before the Christmas holiday. Steamboat Springs High School Class of 2020. Marblehill Subdivision, and Overlook Park. While certain planned requirements as part of the acquisition process. Grant funding for tasks were forced to be delayed, external service levels and review rehabilitation of the Soda Creek bridges on Oak and 11th Streets timelines were consistently met. Engineering expended consider- was secured. able time in the ongoing implementation to replace the current permitting software as well as making significant strides toward Fleet: The Fleet Division serves over 20 different divisions within completing the Transportation Master Plan. Due to budget cuts, the city, accounting for over 178 vehicles and equipment with a staff assumed management duties of the Urban Renewal Authority staff of 4 employees (3 technicians and 1 superintendent.) 10 new including budget planning and aided in refinancing the current vehicles were purchased in 2020, and even though consistently debt to save over $2M over the remaining life of the authority. understaffed this past year, 3,568 services and repairs were completed, nearly 100 more than last year. 83,992 gallons of gas Major capital projects performed include the Butcherknife and diesel were dispensed, and 496,057 miles were traveled in city Floodplain Project through downtown, Eagle Scout Restroom vehicles. This number is down by about 13% from last year, which is Project, completion of the 13th Street sidewalk, and improved not surprising given the challenges 2020 presented. pedestrian facilities including a protected crosswalk on Pine Grove Road. Two stormwater quality units were installed in the downtown Streets: The Streets Division, comprised of 16 full-time employees area, one near the intersection of 7th and Oak and another near the and 4 winter seasonal staff, is responsible for maintaining approxi- library. These devices, which added a total of 10.3 treated acres mately 160 lane miles of roads, 6 miles of alleys, 105 cul-de-sacs downtown, provide end-of-pipe treatment of sediment, oils, and 39 parking lots. In addition, the department maintains all street grease, and trash from running off streets and properties directly signage, three traffic signals and storm drainage including bridges, into the creeks and Yampa River. culverts, ditches and catch basin inlets. In 2020, Streets hauled 54,594 cubic yards of snow (3,033 truckloads), distributed over Significant progress was made during 2020 on design efforts 2,333 tons of scoria for traction and spent 1,347 hours sweeping up including property acquisition for the Steamboat Boulevard/Mount 1,061 tons of material which improved air quality and kept pollutants Werner intersection and the US40 West Pedestrian Connection out of the Yampa River. Crews removed and replaced the bridge project. The latter involved comprehensive federal compliance crossing Butcherknife Creek on Short Street. The September 8 ANNUAL REPORT 2020 17

This is how many city employees spend a powder day! Trees across the city sustained significant damage Trails staff break up beaver dams to help mitigate from a windstorm in early September. against flooding along the Walton Creek Trail and surrounding properties. windstorm required significant efforts by Streets to clear roads and uninterrupted service providing valuable transportation to critical mitigate hundreds of downed trees. In addition, crews supported workers and essential trips. Parks & Rec in mulching over 500 cubic yards of vegetation from the storm. A ¾-mile stretch of Blackmer Drive was fixed, improving Wastewater Treatment Plant: In 2020, the Steamboat Springs drainage, grading, and adding new gravel. Regional Wastewater Treatment Plant treated 1.072 billion gallons of wastewater, 8% less compared to 2019 due to less rain and snow. Transit: The Transit Division (SST) carried 769,993 total passengers The plant produced around 448 dry tons of biosolids, 4% more than in 2020, which is a 30% decrease from 2019. SST’s paratransit in 2019. A 30-day average peak influent loading of 6261 pounds per service provided 772 trips to passengers that have physical, day occurred in December and represents 65% of plant capacity. mental, or cognitive challenges that limit transportation options. This maximum monthly loading is up 1%. There were no violations The Regional Bus Service, which runs between Steamboat Springs, of the Colorado Department of Public Health and Environment Hayden, and Craig, carried 28,135 passengers this past year. The (CDPHE) Discharge Permit in 2020. 2020 was characterized by less biggest accomplishment during the pandemic saw SST continue precipitation and less tourism, especially the traditional large seamless full-service operations despite changing health protocols. increases in weekend loadings. Staff concurs that it is easier to Mitigation efforts included cleaning high touch surfaces on every meet regulatory requirements with more consistent loading. bus, on each loop. Every bus received a deep electrostatic disin- fecting cleaning every service day. Additional air handling was The CDPHE renewed the Plant Discharge Permit in 2017. This permit, implemented along with rear door boarding, capacity restrictions which is in effect until January 2022, requires considerably more and an intensive customer outreach program. All mitigation steps effluent testing for metals and chemical compounds (approxi- were taken using existing staff. This outstanding effort, along mately 500 annual tests compared to 25 in the previous permit) with the public’s cooperation, resulted in minimal staff illness, no and is considerably more expensive ($35,000 vs $15,000 for the outbreaks being traced to SST and the ability to continue prior permit). Additionally, the 2017 Permit requires quarterly Whole 18 CITY OF STEAMBOAT SPRINGS

Effluent Toxicity testing versus annual testing (each test costs around CDPHE in December 2020 and recommended treatment for pH $4000). This past year saw the initiation of a $7M improvement and alkalinity adjustment which is anticipated to be implemented project, required by CDPHE, to provide additional treatment for at the Fish Creek plant in 2022. The Facilities Master Planning study ammonia found within wastewater. Project completion is slated for is a comprehensive evaluation of the Fish Creek and Yampa Wells fall of 2021. Staff is in the process of evaluating alternatives and Treatment Plants. The plan is anticipated to be completed in strategies for meeting the new, more stringent effluent metals limits 2021 and will result in several capital improvements that will be although operational changes at the Water Plant could drastically implemented over a 10-year period beginning in 2021. Due to the lessen effluent copper issues. number, scale, and high priority of the improvements recom- mended by the study, the city will be updating the utility rate study Water & Sewer: In 2020, water use within the city’s service area in 2021, one year ahead of schedule. was 514 million gallons, which is almost a 12% increase from the 2019 water usage of 460 million gallons. The increased usage may To ensure that the city will have the ability to supply future growth be partially attributed to several large-scale water main breaks that into the West Steamboat Springs Area and provide a secure and occurred. Four of the five water main breaks that occurred in the redundant water supply for the community, a perpetual lease city’s distribution system in 2020 were of a much greater scale and agreement was implemented with Public Service Company for complexity than typically seen. Additionally, summer 2020 was 1,200-acre-feet of water from Steamboat Lake. This agreement particularly hot and dry resulting in increased water demand for represents the culmination of 20+ years of analyses and negotiations irrigation purposes. For example, the summer irrigation season and marks an important milestone for securing long-term municipal (June-September) exceeded 2019 water usage for the same period water supplies for Steamboat Springs. by almost 53 million gallons. The Steamboat Springs Water Conservation Plan was adopted in The Water and Sewer Division completed the water and wastewater May 2020, the implementation of which will help the city use water infrastructure master planning study and capital projects were more efficiently while reducing energy and infrastructure costs. It successfully completed resulting in the replacement of 618 linear coincided with the adoption of a new outdoor watering schedule feet of water main and 2,306 linear feet of sewer interceptor. 2020 ordinance that permanently limits lawn watering to three days per also resulted in operational changes due to the global pandemic week. The city believes this plan will help the community meet a including the development of a Continuity of Operations Plan in April goal of 10% reduction in average water use over the next decade. which was, and continues to be, utilized to guide operations while protecting the health and safety of the division staff and the public. Although snow-water equivalent (SWE) stood at 111% of average by March 1, 2020, an early runoff season decreased SWE to 69% of The city partnered with Mt. Werner Water on the development of a average by June 1. Streamflows dropped rapidly by August, which Corrosion Control Study and a Facilities Master Planning Study for proved to be the hottest and driest on record for the Yampa Basin. the water treatment facilities. The Corrosion Control Study evaluated Stagecoach Reservoir released augmented flows by as much as treatment alternatives to address the corrosivity of the water which 40cubic feet per second (cfs) helping maintain stream temperatures would ultimately reduce the ability of metals, such as lead and below the acute threshold of 23.9°C and above the recreational copper, to leach into the water from interior plumbing fixtures. closure flow of 85-cfs through mid-September. These releases Implementation of a corrosion control treatment at the water treat- were a result of the collaboration among the Colorado Water Trust, ment plant will also help the city’s wastewater treatment plant Upper Yampa Water Conservancy District, Yampa River Fund and meet future anticipated metals effluent limits, particularly copper. City of Steamboat Springs. The Corrosion Control Study was complete and submitted to ANNUAL REPORT 2020 19

ENDOWMENTS There are so many things that contribute to the incredible community and the beautiful place we all love. The city has partnered on several endowment funds, held at the Yampa Valley Community Foundation, to ensure future generations enjoy the things we value and love forever. Steamboatsprings.net/funds Howelsen Hill Whimsical or Bob Adams Field, An oasis embodies the serious, thought situated within the within the city heart and soul of provoking or city limits at the limits, the six-acre park celebrates our community. iconic, the Steamboat Springs the native flora and fauna of the The skiing sculptures and Airport, ensures air Yampa River Basin. This hidden gem history and town culture it has murals that grace public spaces in access to of Steamboat Springs is a place to inspired are legendary across the our community enliven our lives. Steamboat Springs revel in nature and is a hideaway globe. Generations of residents Steamboat Springs’ public art for emergency from the stress of modern life. The have learned to ski, jump, and ride serves to enrich physical, economic, crews, search and Yampa River Botanic Park is an here, and lessons learned have social, and cultural elements of our rescue, medical needs, and private innovative, perhaps unique, experi- taken nearly 100 of our friends and community. With more than 80 pilots. With safety as a priority, the ment in private/public development neighbors to the Winter Games. public art installations, across a Steamboat Springs Airport and maintenance of a public Howelsen Hill makes skiing palette of artistic forms in the city, Endowment Fund clears a smooth botanical facility. Your contribution accessible to everyone in the donations to the Public Art flight path for maintenance and helps manage the park, and design community’s backyard. Your Maintenance Endowment Fund updates of airport services now and and create the beautiful gardens contribution to the Fund will help ensure that Steamboat Springs’ into the future. blossoming within. keep the ski area alive – and carry public art collection, which is on its rich traditions. Donations to valuable and impressive, is pre- Steamboat Tennis & Pickleball has In Steamboat this fund maintain, operate, and served for all to enjoy. been providing instruction and Springs, dogs are improve the Howelsen Hill Ski Area access to lifelong sports since 1991 a beloved today and for generations to come. We love wildlife – and are fortunate in a welcoming and friendly envi- member of the to be able to see moose, deer, elk, ronment for members and guests. family. Ensuring Our region’s trails and animals of all size on a regular Serve up your support to the dogs are part of and trail systems basis. As Routt County has grown, Steamboat Tennis & Pickleball our mountain give residents we have impacted key habitat Center Fund and protect and town culture, the and visitors elements of food, water, protected maintain this public complex. It’s a Steamboat Digs Dogs Endowment unparalleled cover, adequate range, and migration Love-Love opportunity and scores Fund will maintain, operate, and access to the out corridors. Your donation to WHILD an ACE for the community. improve off-leash dog parks in our of doors. The Trail Maintenance is a win for wildlife – and supports community, fur-ever. Endowment Fund affords a perma- wildlife habitat improvement nent endowment for non-motorized projects, including capital projects, trail and trailhead maintenance planning, research, studies, man- projects on public lands within agement, enforcement, and Routt and Moffat Counties. Your education for the public benefit. donation to the Trail Maintenance Endowment Fund will help maintain the trails you love, forever. 20 CITY OF STEAMBOAT SPRINGS

In May, COVID-19 victims were remembered across Colorado including a special tribute to Casey’s Pond and their residents. ANNUAL REPORT 2020 21

2020 COMMUNITY SURVEY A survey was carried out in the spring of 2020, which collected data from 2,500 households on various aspects of the community, city services, government performance and other key items. The full results as well as results from 2017 and 2015 can be found at Steamboatsprings.net/Survey SERVICE IMPROVEMENTS QUALITY OF CITY SERVICES • Animal Control (+18%) • Street Repair (+16%) • Public Information/Communication Services (+16%) • City Recreation Facilities (+15%) • Municipal Court (+14%) • City Recreation Programs (+11%) • Economic Development Efforts (+10%) • Overall Customer Service by City Employees (+10%) • Police Services (+9%) • Financial Support of Non-Profit Organizations (+9%) • Crime Prevention (+9%) • Storm Drainage (+7%) • Overall Quality of City Services (+7%) • Code Enforcement (+6%) TOURISM Overall Impact of Tourism Future of Tourism Positive Keep the 81% status quo: tourism Reduced with lower tourism property with higher property taxes taxes and 65% fees Negative 35% 19% 22 CITY OF STEAMBOAT SPRINGS

GOVERNMENT PERFORMANCE IMPROVEMENTS IMPORTANCE OF CITY SERVICES • Overall Confidence in City Council (+17%) • Overall Confidence in City Staff (+17%) • Value of Services for Sales Taxes Paid (+15%) • Openness/Transparency of the City Government (+13%) • Treating All Residents Fairly (+9%) • Job City does Matching Expenditures to Community Priorities (+7%) OVERALL COMMUNITY PRIORITIES ANNUAL REPORT 2020 23

COMMUNITY ENGAGEMENT An engaged community is a healthy community. Active participation leads to dialogue and discussion that shapes the process of making Steamboat Springs a better place. The city provides educational opportunities for residents to discover how to engage, learn about local government and participate to a greater degree. WEBSITES: 24/7 COMMENT TO COUNCIL SOCIAL Steamboatsprings.net Send an email or comment form to the entire City @CityofSteamboat Community’s source for news, Council, City Manager, City Attorney and City Clerk. @SteamboatRecreation information and questions on city • Email, [email protected] @SSFireRescue programs, services, documents, • Website, steamboatsprings.net/comment @SteamboatTransit departments and operations. @HowelsenHill EngageSteamboat.net Public Comment – Regular Meetings @HowelsenIce Engage Steamboat is spurring • Public Comment for items not on the agenda- @HaymakerGolf community conversation. This is @YampaRiverBotanicPark your place to get involved, share typically occurs around 6 PM. ideas, evaluate priorities, and • When recognized by President during Public @CityofSteamboat empower Steamboat Springs to @StmbtParksRec reach new heights as a city. Comment Spring into action! – Identify yourself by name and address @CityofSteamboat – All comments should not exceed 3 minutes CITY LIMITS @CityofSteamboat STEAMBOAT The city’s one-hour radio talk @SteamboatSpringsCity show, City Limits, runs on all CONVERSATIONS CSOTNEVAERMSABTOIOANTS Steamboat Radio stations. A VIRTUAL TOWN HALL PANEL SERIES WATCH, LISTEN & LIVE STREAM The show airs monthly featuring Information moves insights from Councilors, City quickly and changes Manager, staff, and special guests tackling a variety of subjects in even faster as commu- front of the community. nities deal with COVID- PRESSETNETEADMBY BOAT SPTILEOATM&BTOOADTASYPARNIDNGS 19 and other issues that CITY OF span economic, cultural, recreational, and social matters. The city and county, in conjunction with the Steamboat Pilot & Today, hosted this virtual town hall series with more than 30 sessions in 2020. Steamboat Conversations addressed Coronavirus, business, mental health, education, health and more. 24 CITY OF STEAMBOAT SPRINGS

BY THE NUMBERS AIRPORT 2020 2019 2018 Take Off/Landings 11,087 8,940 8,252 Aviation Fuel (gallons) 120,125 92,635 103,037 CITY CLERK 2020 2019 2018 Open Records 135 150 97 Liquor Licenses Permitted Events 112 103 102 Council Meetings 35 75 46 38 41 37 ENGINEERING 2020 2019 2018 Capital Improvements $3.9M $5.2M $4.7M FLEET 2020 2019 2018 Since Santa couldn’t host his traditional workshop, Steamboat Springs Fire Rescue provided their big red sleigh to tour local neighborhoods. Repairs & Service 3,568 3,478 3,375 Gas & Diesel (gallons) 83,992 97,000 78,000 POLICE SERVICES 2020 2019 2018 TRANSIT 2020 2019 2018 Miles Traveled 496,057 570,000 532,000 Bear Calls 374 319 NA FIRE SERVICES 2020 2019 2018 Records Checks 129 224 222 Total Passengers 769,993 1,109,576 1,093,637 Records Copies 525 542 639 Calls for Service 2,297 2,511 2,482 ACO Calls for Service 1,662 1,282 1,142 Regional Passengers 28,135 33,600 28,763 ACO Bite Reports 55 63 65 IGS 2020 2019 2018 Paratransit Passengers 772 2,121 2,349 PROCUREMENT 2020 2019 2018 Grant Dollars $5.9M $3.1M $1.88M WASTEWATER 2020 2019 2018 Invitations to Bid 37 54 50 PARKS & REC 2020 2019 2018 Contracts Processed 126 126 205 H2O Treated (gallons) 1.07B 1.07B 954M Grant Agreements Biosolids (dry tons) 448 430 408 Rec Program Spots 4,228 19,200 18,689 Purchase Orders 31 15 11 Annual Permit Tests 500 500 500 Ski Area Snow Events 12 25 21 130 163 155 Ski Free Sundays 16 16 15 STREET WATER & SEWER 2020 2020 2020 Rodeo Events 0 21 21 2020 2020 2020 Event Permits 29 44 33 Snow Removed (yards) Consumed H2O (gals) 514M 460M 490M Scoria Applied (tons) 54,594 73,044 31,464 Ave daily summer use 1.99M 1.60M 1.93M POLICE SERVICES 2020 2020 2020 Sweeping (hours) 2,333 2,400 1.692 Ave daily winter use 1.03M 920,000 920,000 Material (tons) 1,347 1,987 Peak Day Summer 3.39M 2.48M 2.7M Calls for Service 16,308 8,940 8,940 1,061 640 966 Low Day Winter 330,000 210,000 516,000 Citations 8,940 8,940 8,940 1,590 Warnings 8,940 8,94 8,94 ANNUAL REPORT 2020 25

Photo: Cyndi Marlowe 137 10th Street | PO Box 775088 Steamboat Springs, CO 80477-5088 970.879.2060 | steamboatsprings.net