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TC Resolution 24-17 Adopting the Simplified Rules of Order and Council Handbook,von COLORADO RESOLUTION 24-17 AMENDING THE SIMPLIFIED RULES OF ORDER FOR AVON TOWN COUNCIL MEETINGS AND ADOPTING AMENDED TOWN COUNCIL HANDBOOK WHEREAS, Section 5.1 of the Town of Avon's Home Rule Charter ("Charter") states, "[t]he Council shall determine the rules of procedure governing meetings;" and WHEREAS, the Avon Town Council last amended and re -adopted its Simplified Rules of Order for Avon Town Council Meetings on June 22, 2021 via Resolution 21-15; and WHEREAS, Avon Town Council confirmed its desire to incorporate amendments to its Simplified Rules of Order into an amended Town Council Handbook during its May 28, 2024 Town Council meeting; and WHEREAS, such amendments will update existing policies and procedures and implement new policies and procedures in order to provide consistency in application during its term and for the benefit of future Town Councils; and WHEREAS, the Avon Town Council finds that the incorporation of such amendments to its Simplified Rules of Order and the Town Council Handbook will promote the health, safety, and general welfare of the Avon Community by promoting efficiency, understanding, order, and transparency of Council meetings for its members, staff, and the general public. NOW, THEREFORE, BE IT RESOLVED BY THE TOWN COUNCIL THE TOWN OF AVON, COLORADO that the amendments to the Avon Town Council's Simplified Rules of Order and Town Council Handbook are effective as of the date of adoption of this Resolution. ADOPTED August 13, 2024 by the AVON TOWN COUNCIL By: Attest: Amy Phillips, Mayor Avon Town Council Simplified Rules of Order These Simplified Rules of Order establish rules and procedures for Avon Town Council meetings. The intent is to set forth simplified rules which are readily accessible and usable by the Avon Town Council members and understandable by the general public. The provisions of the Home Rule Charter, the Avon Municipal Code, or any ordinance adopted by the Avon Town Council shall govern and apply in the event there is any conflict with these Simplified Rules of Order. Unless otherwise indicated, any reference to the term "Mayor" shall also mean "Mayor Pro-Tem" or "Acting Mayor" in the absence of the Mayor as set forth in the Avon Home Rule Charter. I. Standards of Conduct for Avon Town Meetings: The Avon Town Council finds that the foundation of municipal democracy rests on open, respectful and informed discussion and debate balanced with the necessary efficiency required to take action in the public interest. Reasonable persons will often disagree on many public matters which arise before elected and appointed officials. The process of discussion and debate is essential to the ability of elected and appointed officials to render the best decisions possible for the Avon community. The following standards of conduct are considered the minimum standards for elected and appointed officials. A. Elected and appointed officials shall conduct themselves in a mature manner that is becoming of public officials, shall respect one another and shall respect members of the public. B. Elected and appointed officials shall refrain from profanity, rude behavior or personal attacks and shall promptly apologize to both the board and the recipient of any such behavior in the event of a temporary lapse of appropriate behavior. C. The Mayor shall be responsible for maintaining civility, decorum and order throughout the meeting. D. Members of the Avon Town Council shall not communicate between or amongst themselves by text message, a -mails or other forms of electronic communication during a Council meeting. E. Members of the Avon Town Council shall promptly disclose and announce the sending or receipt by a Council member of a text message, e-mail or other form of electronic communication during a Town Council meeting, to or from any person, for any such communication that concerns a matter on the Town Council agenda for that meeting. II. Mayor: Every meeting of the Avon Town Council shall be presided over by the Mayor. If the Mayor is absent the Mayor Pro -Tern shall preside over the meeting. If the Mayor has a conflict of interest on a matter then the Mayor Pro-Tem shall preside Adopted January 28, 2014 by Resolution No. 14-03 Amended and Readopted on July 26, 2016 by Resolution No. 16-20 Amended and Readopted on April 11, 2017 by Resolution No. 17-05 Amended and Readopted on June 22, 2021 by Resolution No. 21-15 Amended and Readopted on August 13, 2024 by Resolution No. 24-17 Page 1 of 7 over the meeting for such matter. If the Mayor and Mayor Pro-Tem are absent, or if they both have conflict of interest on a matter, then a quorum of Council members shall appoint an Acting Mayor by motion who shall then preside over the meeting or shall preside over such matter for which the Mayor and Mayor Pro -Tern have conflict of interest. The Mayor shall strive to moderate Council meetings with impartiality, shall strive to allow input from all other Council members on matters before expressing his or her opinion, and shall refrain from making a motion or seconding a motion until it is apparent that no other member of the Council will do so. III. Agendas: The following rules and procedures shall apply to agendas: A. The Mayor shall determine the agenda in consultation with the Town Manager. The Town Council may direct items to be included on an agenda. Individual Council members may contact the Mayor to request inclusion of a matter on an agenda. The Mayor shall consult with the Town Manager and exercise discretion to determine if the matter should be included on the agenda as a discussion item or an action item. B. After roll call, the Council shall approve the agenda by motion by a majority of the quorum present with any additions or deletions Council deems appropriate. C. The Council may take action by motion at any time during a meeting to schedule discussion or action items on a future agenda which shall be scheduled by Town Staff. D. Noticing for action items and public hearings shall be in accordance with applicable law. IV. General Attendance Policy: Effective, involved, and informed governance of the Town of Avon necessitates the attendance of all elected and appointed council members at all Town Council meetings and work sessions to the utmost extent possible. If a council member is unable to attend a Council meeting or work session they must make a reasonable effort to provide written notice via e-mail and/or text message to the Town Clerk, the Town Manager, and the Mayor prior to the time in which the meeting or work session is set to begin or as soon as practicable thereafter. A ten (10) minute grace period shall be permitted for a Council member to arrive following the commencement of a Council meeting or work session before such tardiness shall be considered an absence. In the event a council member accrues four (4) consecutive absences or six (6) total absences from Council meetings or work sessions in a calendar year, the procedures set forth in Avon Municipal Code Chapter 2.05 — Removal of Council Members — shall apply. Adopted January 28, 2014 by Resolution No. 14-03 Amended and Readopted on July 26, 2016 by Resolution No. 16-20 Amended and Readopted on April 11, 2017 by Resolution No. 17-05 Amended and Readopted on June 22, 2021 by Resolution No. 21-15 Amended and Readopted on August 13, 2024 by Resolution No. 24-17 Page 2 of 7 V. Remote Attendance Policy: The preference and expectation of all Council members is to attend Council meetings in -person whenever possible in recognition of the efficiency and effectiveness of in -person participation when conducting the public business ofthe Town ofAvon. However, there may be occasional times when in -person attendance is not possible by Council members. Council finds that remote attendance by Council members is preferable to not permitting participation or delaying the conduct of public business. Participation by remote attendance shall comply with this Section V and any applicable laws. Notwithstanding any provision contained herein, no member of Council is guaranteed the ability to participate in any meeting by remote attendance. Council members shall not be permitted to attend more than four (4) total Council Meetings remotely per calendar year, excluding virtual -only meetings. A. Remote attendance means participation by video or audio means, such as Zoom, Webex, Microsoft Teams or similar platform, which is clear, uninterrupted and allows two-way communication for the participating Council member. B. Council members may participate in a Council meeting by remote attendance when travelling out-of-town, when ill, or when unusual or unforeseen circumstances do not allow in -person attendance. Council members who are ill are encouraged and expected to participate by remote attendance. C. A Council member who desires to participate by remote attendance shall notify the Town Clerk, the Town Manager, and the Mayor as early as possible in writing via e-mail and/or text message. Upon receipt of such written request, the Town shall use its best efforts to provide the technical means necessary to fulfill such request from Town Hall; provided, however, it shall be incumbent upon the Council member who desires to participate by remote attendance to provide the technical means necessary to facilitate remote attendance from their remote location. D. A Council member who is participating through remote attendance (1) shall be entitled to participate in all Council matters in the same capacity as a Council member in physical attendance, including participation quasi-judicial matters and executive sessions; (2) shall be counted for purposes of establishing a quorum; (3) shall have the opportunity to express comments during the meeting and participate in the same capacity as those members physically present, subject to all general meeting guidelines and adopted procedures; (4) shall be heard, considered, and counted as to any vote taken; (5) shall be called during any vote taken and shall have such Council member's vote counted and recorded by the Town Clerk and placed in the minutes for the corresponding meeting; and, (6) may leave a meeting and return as in the case of any member upon announcement of such leaving and returning. When any member of Council is participating by remote attendance, all votes taken shall be conducted by roll call vote. E. The Mayor, Mayor -Pro Tern or other designated person who is presiding over the meeting shall have the discretion to mute any Council member who is participating Adopted January 28, 2014 by Resolution No. 14-03 Amended and Readopted on July 26, 2016 by Resolution No. 16-20 Amended and Readopted on April 11, 2017 by Resolution No. 17-05 Amended and Readopted on June 22, 2021 by Resolution No. 21-15 Amended and Readopted on August 13, 2024 by Resolution No. 24-17 Page 3 of 7 through remote attendance when distracting and extraneous noise is occurring through the remote attendance. The officer who is presiding over the meeting may delegate to the ability to mute Council members to the meeting host with controls for the meeting platform. The officer who is presiding over the meeting shall use best effo 1 is to recognize and provide opportunity for Council members who are participating via remote attendance contribute to the discussion and express comments. The officer presiding during the meeting shall designate the individual who Council members should contact during the meeting in the event of technical difficulties or in connection with other matters related to items not appearing on the agenda for the meeting in which the Council member is participating by remote attendance. F. In the event that there is significant disruption in the connection or communication with a Council member, or members, who are participating via remote attendance which frustrates and disrupts the efficiency and effectiveness of the Council meeting, the officer presiding over the meeting or a majority of Council members who are attending a meeting in -person may choose to terminate the remote attendance of such Council member or may choose to continue or table the Council meeting or agenda matter to a later time. G. Council members who are participating via remote attendance are expected to be situated in a stationary location with adequate internet service with video camera on and presenting in a professional manner similar to in -person Council meeting attendance. VI. Motions: All official Town Council actions are initiated by motion. These following rules and procedures apply to motions. There are two basic motions: action motions and procedural motions. Only one action motion may be on the floor at a time. A procedural motion may be proposed, discussed and acted upon when an action motion is on the floor or at any other time. A. Basic Motion: The basic motion to take action is stated as, "I move to ...... Every motion requires a second. Once a motion is made no further discussion can continue until a second is made to support the motion. B. Discussion: All Council members have the right to discuss the motion on the floor. Discussion cannot be concluded unless (1) all Council members present consent or (2) a majority of Council members present approve a procedural motion to "Call the Question" and end debate. C. Withdraw a Motion: The maker of a motion may choose to withdraw the motion at any time prior to the vote on the motion and may interrupt a speaker to withdraw the motion and consent of the Council member who seconded the motion is not required. The motion is immediately withdrawn; however, the Mayor may then ask the Council member who seconded the withdrawn motion and any other Council member if such Council member wishes to make the motion. Adopted January 28, 2014 by Resolution No. 14-03 Amended and Readopted on July 26, 2016 by Resolution No. 16-20 Amended and Readopted on April 11, 2017 by Resolution No. 17-05 Amended and Readopted on June 22, 2021 by Resolution No. 21-15 Amended and Readopted on August 13, 2024 by Resolution No. 24-17 Page 4 of 7 D. Amendment to Motion: Any Council member may request an amendment to a pending motion. The maker of the pending motion and Council member who seconded the motion must consent to the proposed amendment. Any Council member may also propose a substitute motion to a pending motion which also requires consent of the maker of the pending motion and the Council member who seconded the pending motion. E. Procedural Motion: A procedural motion may be made at any time and may impose or modify any procedural rule provided that such procedure is not in conflict with the Avon Home Rule Charter, any ordinance adopted by the Town, or any applicable state law. Procedural motions require a majority vote of the quorum present. F. Motion to Call the Question or End the Discussion: A motion to "call the question" (also known as a motion to end the discussion) is a procedural motion to end debate and discussion. A motion to call the question cannot be made until each Council member has had at least one reasonable opportunity to ask questions and express his or her opinion on the matter. Once a motion to call the question is made and seconded, it shall be the Mayor's discretion to allow any fin 1 her discussion on such procedural motion for the purpose of clarifying any technical, procedural or legal issue related to the procedural motion. A motion to call the question requires a majority vote of the quorum present. Once a motion to call the question is approved, the pending action motion on the floor must be voted upon promptly or, if no action motion is pending, the Mayor shall proceed to the next agenda item. G. Motion to Continue: A motion to continue an agenda item must include a specific future Council meeting date, time and place for the continued matter to be considered again without re -noticing a required public hearing. H. Motion to Table: A motion to table places the agenda item on hold and does not require a specific time for the return of the agenda item. I. Motion to Suspend Rules: A motion to suspend rules may allow suspension of any rule in this Simplified Rule of Order. Such motion may be made and requires a supermajority vote of a majority of the quorum present plus one for approval. A motion to suspend rules may not supersede the procedural requirements of the Avon Home Rule Charter, any ordinance adopted by the Town, or any applicable state law. I A Motion to Reconsider: A Motion to Reconsider allows the Council to reconsider a vote on a matter. A Motion to Reconsider may only be made and considered if made and acted upon less than twenty-eight (28) days after the date of the Council action to be reconsidered and may be made only by a member of Council who voted in the majority on the motion which is proposed for reconsideration. Adopted January 28, 2014 by Resolution No. 14-03 Amended and Readopted on July 26, 2016 by Resolution No. 16-20 Amended and Readopted on April 11, 2017 by Resolution No. 17-05 Amended and Readopted on June 22, 2021 by Resolution No. 21-15 Amended and Readopted on August 13, 2024 by Resolution No. 24-17 Page 5 of 7 VII. Meeting Conduct A. Point of Privilege: A Council member may interrupt the speaker to raise a matter related to the comfort of the meeting, such as room temperature, distractions, or ability to hear speaker. B. Point of Order: A Council member may raise a Point of Order at any time that the Mayor permits meeting conduct which does not follow these Simplified Rules of Order or otherwise fails to maintain civility and decorum by the Council and the general public. C. Appeal: A Council member may move to appeal the ruling of the Mayor on any procedural matter or other decision related to the conduct of the meeting. If the motion is seconded and, after debate, it such motion passes by a simple majority vote of the quorum present, then the ruling or conduct of the Mayor shall be overruled and reversed. D. Call for Orders of the Day: A Council member may call for Orders of the Day when such Council member believes that Council discussion has strayed from the agenda. No second or vote is required. If the Mayor does not return to the agenda, then such ruling may be appealed. E. Adjournment: The Mayor may announce the meeting adjourned when there are no further items on the agenda which have not been addressed. The Council may adjourn a meeting at any time by motion, second and approval by a majority of the quorum present. VIII. Public Comments: Council agendas shall include a general item labeled "Public Comment" near the beginning of all Council meetings. Members of the public who wish to provide comments to Council greater than three minutes are encouraged to schedule time in advance on the agenda and to provide written comments and other appropriate materials to the Council in advance of the Council meeting. The Mayor shall permit public comments during any agenda item and may limit public comment to three minutes per individual, which limitation may be waived or increased by a majority of the quorum present. The timer for public comment shall begin promptly after the speaker states their name and place of residence. IX. Public Hearing: The following general rules shall apply to the order and conduct of public hearings. These rules may be modified or suspended by Motion to Suspend Rules. A. The Mayor shall open the public hearing by announcing the topic of the agenda item. The Mayor shall at all times during public hearings strive to maintain civility, decorum and order. Adopted January 28, 2014 by Resolution No. 14-03 Amended and Readopted on July 26, 2016 by Resolution No. 16-20 Amended and Readopted on April 11, 2017 by Resolution No. 17-05 Amended and Readopted on June 22, 2021 by Resolution No. 21-15 Amended and Readopted on August 13, 2024 by Resolution No. 24-17 Page 6 of 7 B. The Mayor and/or appropriate Town Staff person shall introduce the topic, explain the applicable procedures and laws, and provide any presentation by the Town. C. The applicant, licensee or appellant shall have the opportunity to present information, provide testimony, or respond to any comments or details in the Town's presentation. D. The Council shall have the opportunity to ask technical questions of the appropriate Town staff, Town officials and the applicant, licensee or appellant but Council members shall not express opinions on the matter prior to opening the public hearing for public comment. E. The Mayor shall officially open the public hearing for public comment and shall allow for members of the public to provide comment to the Council. The Council may approve a time limitation not less than 3 minutes for individual public comment and may approve sign-up sheets or other public comment procedures to promote order and efficiency by a majority vote of the quorum present provided that individuals shall be permitted to yield his or her public comment time to another speaker. After all public comments are received, or if the Council determines that the volume of public comments requires additional time and moves to continue the public hearing, the Mayor shall close the public comment portion of the public hearing. F. The Council may discuss the merits of the topic of the public hearing and take such action as deemed appropriate after the public comment poI lion of the public hearing is concluded. If the volume of public comments requires a continuation, if additional information is required to consider the public hearing matter, or if the Council determines that additional time is warranted to consider the matter of the public hearing, the Council may continue the public hearing to a later date and may re -open the public comment p011 ion of the public hearing at any continued public hearing. X. Executive Sessions: Council may convene into executive session at any time by the affirmative vote of 2/3rds of the quorum present and by announcing the specific statutory citation and purpose of the executive session in accordance with the Colorado Open Meetings Law, CRS §24-6-402(4). The Council is not permitted to take official, final action on any matter in executive session. Adopted January 28, 2014 by Resolution No. 14-03 Amended and Readopted on July 26, 2016 by Resolution No. 16-20 Amended and Readopted on April 11, 2017 by Resolution No. 17-05 Amended and Readopted on June 22, 2021 by Resolution No. 21-15 Amended and Readopted on August 13, 2024 by Resolution No. 24-17 Page 7 of 7 ,gyp""^�.r 0 ITIVI 0 K at 0 A 0 1 DI OW4010 %�W. a{ ± 1F lit N pp E LW 1 J, . s � �:.--. N•" r _. +�a'_ . �/ � •. t,� .... 'CFI qT� �� �b, i L7' *WOle This Town Council Handbook provides a comprehensive guide and reference for Council members as a benefit for both new and existing Council members. Throughout this Handbook the term "Councilor" references to all Council members, including the Mayor and Mayor Pro-Tem; the term "Council" refers to the Avon Town Council; the term "Staff" refers to Town Staff; the term "AMC" refers to the Avon Municipal Code; and the term "Charter" refers to the Avon Home Rule Charter. In some cases, this Handbook is addressed to each Councilor as "you". COUNCIL MEETING LOGISTICS • Council determines the schedule of Council meetings. Generally, Council meets on the 2nd and 4th Tuesday of each month. A draft schedule of Council meetings is presented for Council review and adoption at the beginning of the calendar year. Council may choose to cancel regularly scheduled meetings or schedule special meetings at any time in accordance with Chapter V — Council Procedure of the Charter. • The Council regular meeting agenda and packet will be available on the Friday afternoon before the Council meeting, generally by 5:00 p.m., for review by Councilor's before the Tuesday meeting. • In January 2025 you will receive a Town -owned tablet or laptop to access your Council email account and the electronic packet. Electronic packets are available at www.avon.org/packets. • Subject to the needs of Council, meetings can be attended virtually on Zoom, in whole or in part, and can be scheduled as a hybrid virtual and in -person meeting. Hybrid or virtual -only meetings will be set-up by the Chief Administrative Officer, who will send you panelist links via email on the day of the meeting. Feel welcome to join 10 minutes early to test your audio/video. • The remote attendance policies for virtual attendance at virtual -only and hybrid virtual/in-person meeting is in the Simplified Rules of Order in Appendix 2 to this Handbook. • Dinner will be provided at each Council meeting at least 15 minutes before the start of the meeting. Feel welcome to arrive early. If you have any special dietary needs, please contact the Deputy Town Clerk or Chief Administrative Officer and advise of any restrictions. • Council seating assignments at the Council dais are determined by the Mayor in consultation with all Councilor. • As all meetings are recorded. Please verify that your microphone is on and speak directly into an active microphone on the dais in front of you during the meeting. THINGS TO KNOW AND DO Contact Information: Council has four official professional positions which are appointed by Council and overseen by Council: Town Manager, Town Attorney, Municipal Judge and Prosecuting Attorney. These positions are the Council's only "direct reports". All other Staff report directly or indirectly to the Town Manager. Section I of this Handbook explains the roles, responsibilities and duties for communication to the Town Manager and the Staff. Contact information for the direct reports to Council, Department Directors and General Government Department Staff are provided as follows: Eric Heil Town Manager eheil(o)avon.or-q 970.748.4004 (D) Patty McKenny Deputy Town Manager prnaemy6avon.orq . .................... ... .. . . ..... .. . ..... .... ................ ..... ..... . ......... .................... . . ....................... ..... . ......................................... ........ 970.748.4021 (D) .............. ..................... ....... ... . Ineke de Jong Chief Administrative Officer idelong(cDavon.org 970.748.4013 (D) Elizabeth Wood Marketing & Communications ewood(@avon.org Manager 970.748.4087 (D) Danita Dempsey Culture, Arts & Special Events ddempsevaavon.orq ...... ..... .........Manager 9�7.0.-.�7�4..8.4065(D) Miguel Jauregui Casanueva Town Clerk miauregui()avon.org . . ........................................ .... ... ................................ ..................................................................................... .............. ... ................. .... .. 970.748.4001..(D) . ........ Brenda Torres Deputy Town Clerk & Court Clerk . . ................ ........ ...... ... ..... ..... .... . .......... ...... . ........ .... ......... .................. .............. ............ .. .. ...... .. . ..... ... ...................... ...... ....... ........... ............... . .. ................... 970 748 4001 (D) Charlotte Lin Sustainability Coordinator clin(a)avon.org 970.748,4083 (D) Nina Williams Town Attorney nina6wwfdlaw.com .............. . ........... ........ ..... Buck Allen Municipal Judge ballen(c�vailqov.com . .... . . . ............ 9.7.0.47.912.13.1. (P) Taggart Howard Town Prosecuting Attorney taqciaftoward(cDme.com 11 1.." ........ . . . . ........ ... .... ..... (D) Paul Redmond Chief Financial Officer predmond(a-�avonmq - ---- ----- ----------------- - - --- - ---------- ---- ----------- . ....... ..... .... . ... .. ..... .... .. . - .. . . ... . .. ... ... ... 9.7.074.8.40.88 (D) Robert McKenner Chief Information Officer rmckenner(@avon.or-q 970.748.4034 _(D) Matt Pielsticker Community Development Director mpieistickeraavon.ong . . ...... ......... .............................................................. ................ ............. .................. ............ .... ....... ..................... 970.748.4413 (D) ...... ............... ............. - .......... Eva Wilson Public Works Director ewilsonaavon.or-q . . ......... . . .... ....... .......... ................ . ..................... ..... ................. ................. ........ .......................... ..................................... 970.748.4111 (D)_ ....... .... - ................ ..... Michael Labagh Recreation Director mlabagh(@avon.or-q 970.748.4446 _(D) Greg Daly Chief of Police qdalvaavon.or-q 970.748.4049 (D) 1. Mail: Correspondence as mail addressed to Council is copied and distributed to all Council members. Mail is placed in mailboxes, marked with your name, and located in the central mail area on the first floor of Town Hall. 2. Email: A Town of Avon e-mail address and account will be provided for all incoming Council members to be used for all Town of Avon business. • You may access the e-mail account from https://Iogin.microsoftonline.com. • E-mail correspondence addressed to Council and received by the Town's website or Staff, is forwarded to all Council members. The Town Clerk's office retains a copy for the public record. • IMPORTANT INFORMATION FOR THE USE OF TOWN EMAIL: o The Town of Avon uses an e-mail archiver, which retains a copy of every outgoing and incoming email for at least two (2) years. o Councilors should consistently use the official Avon email address for any and all correspondence concerning Town business. If personal email is used to conduct Town business, all personal email may be subject to a public records request. o Should an email be addressed to three (3) or more Councilors, DO NOT `Reply All' because this back and forth email amongst three or more Councilors could be categorized as a "meeting" under Colorado Sunshine Law a/k/a Open Meetings Law. You may respond individually to intended Staff recipients as needed, thereby preventing the need for public notices and minutes. The Town Manager should always be included on communications with Staff. It is customary to also copy the Staff person's Department Director on all email communication with Staff. 3. Websites, Newsletters & Press Release: The Town hosts three websites. 1. The primary and most comprehensive website, www.avon.org, includes everything related to the Town's operations and governance. On this site you can also sign up for automatic email alerts for a variety of the Town notifications including general information, construction updates, job postings, youth programs, meeting agendas, and much more. 2. The Town's second website, www.discoveravon.org, is devoted to all the ways to enjoy Avon to the fullest from special events, outdoor activities, dining, shopping, and accommodations. 3. The Town's third website, engage.avon.org, is a community -engagement platform used to solicit public feedback on a variety of Town projects. Participants can take surveys and share ideas. All Councilors are strongly encouraged to sign up for the Town's monthly newsletter (the Avon Heartbeat) and Town notifications / press releases. Go to www.avon.org/notifyme to sign up and select the notifications you'd like to receive. In addition, Councilors are encouraged to Like and follow the Town's social media page on Facebook. 4. Rules and Procedures: On January 14, 2014, the Council adopted the initial Council Simplified Rules of Order in order to establish rules and procedures for the Council during its meetings; the newest version of the Simplified Rules was adopted on August 13, 2024. The intent is to set simplified rules which are readily accessible and usable by the Councilors and understandable by the general public. The Simplified Rules of Order contain the following sections: • Standards of Conduct for Avon Town Meetings • Mayor • Agendas • General Attendance Policy • Remote Attendance Policy • Motions • Meeting Conduct • Public Comments • Public Hearing • Executive Sessions For your convenience, the Simplified Rules of Order have been attached at the end of this Handbook in Appendix 2. 5. Council Compensation, Benefits Enrollment and Federal Forms Packet Per AMC Section 2.04.010, compensation for Councilors is as follows: Council Members shall receive compensation for their service in office in accordance with the following schedule: (1) Mayor: One thousand dollars ($1,000.00) per month (until December 10, 2024). This amount is increasing to one thousand five hundred dollars ($1,500) per month on/after December 111 2024 to December 8, 2026. This amount is increasing to two thousand dollars ($2, 000) per month on/after December 9, 2026 to December 12, 2028. This amount is increasing to two thousand two hundred dollars ($2, 200) on/after December 13, 2028. (2) Mayor Pro Tema Seven hundred fifty dollars ($750.00) per month (until December 10, 2024). This amount is increasing to one thousand one hundred twenty-five dollars ($1,125) per month on/after December 11, 2024 to December 8, 2026. This amount is increasing to one thousand five hundred dollars ($1, 500) per month on/after December 9, 2026 to December 12, 2028. This amount is increasing to one thousand six hundred fifty dollars ($1, 650) on/after December 13, 2028. (3) All other Council Members: Five hundred dollars ($500.00) per month (until December 10, 2024). This amount is increasing to seven hundred fifty dollars ($750) per month on/after December 11, 2024 to December 8, 2026. This amount is increasing to one thousand dollars ($1, 000) per month on/after December 9, 2026 to December 12, 2028. This amount is increasing to one thousand one hundred dollars ($1,100) on/after December 13, 2028. You are encouraged to contact Human Resources, to set up an appointment time to review and fill out a list of new employee documents, ask any questions and complete the benefits enrollment process. Note that the Town's health insurance policy has strict enrollment deadlines. Please work with the Human Resources Division regarding benefits. 6. Liability Prevention Training Tools: The Town of Avon's primary liability insurance company is Colorado Intergovernmental Risk Sharing Association ("CIRSA") which is used by nearly all municipalities and counties in Colorado. CIRSA is a member -owned self-insurance pool. CIRSA has a variety of liability prevention training tools for newly elected officials. All of the training programs are complimentary as a benefit of membership in CIRSA, and you are strongly encouraged to review: In the Scope of Your Authority: Preventing Public Officials' Liability, which is available on YouTube at https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=r5GK6LvCA7s • The Ethics, Liability & Best Practices Handbook for Elected Officials (Appendix 7) 7. Other. There is much more to Know and Do in your role as a Councilor of the Town of Avon. The following sections of this Handbook provide a compilation of some important resources and additional information to help you begin your work. Should you need assistance or want to further review this information, please contact the Chief Administrator Officer. SECTION I: BASICS OF TOWN GOVERNMENT TOWN COUNCIL ROLE, RESPONSIBILITIES AND DUTIES GENERAL DECORUM AND CONDUCT OF TOWN COUNCIL SOCIAL MEDIA POLICY COUNCIL-MANAGER FORM OF GOVERNMENT TOWN ATTORNEY AVON IS A HOME RULE MUNICIPALITY TOWN CHARTER & TOWN CODE GENERAL POWERS, RESPONSIBILITIES AND DUTIES OF THE TOWN COUNCIL BOARDS AND COMMISSIONS TOWN ORGANIZATIONAL CHART STAFF COMMUNICATION SECTION 11: TYPES OF COUNCIL ACTIONS ORDINANCES RESOLUTIONS MOTIONS PROCLAMATIONS SECTION III: BUDGET TOWN BUDGET OVERVIEW BUDGET MESSAGE BUDGET CONTENT CAPITAL PROGRAM PUBLIC HEARING COUNCIL ACTION ON BUDGET CONTINGENCIES PUBLIC RECORDS AMENDMENTS AFTER ADOPTION INDEPENDENT AUDIT SECTION IV: COUNCIL ACTING AS OTHER AUTHORITIES LIQUOR LICENSING AUTHORITY BOARD OF APPEALS URBAN RENEWAL AUTHORITYAVON HOUSING AUTHORITY SECTION V: DOWNTOWN DEVELOPMENT AUTHORITY DOWNTOWN DEVELOPMENT AUTHORITY OVERVIEW SECTION VI: PLANNING AND ZONING COMMISSION PLANNING AND ZONING COMMISSION OVERVIEW SECTION VII: CITIZEN COMMITTEES CULTURE, ARTS & SPECIAL EVENTS COMMITTEE FINANCE COMMITTEE HEALTH & RECREATION COMMITTEE SECTION VIII: MUNICIPAL LAWS OPEN MEETINGS LAW COLORADO OPEN RECORDS ACT MEETING MINUTES AND RECORDINGS RECORD RETENTION POLICY / SCHEDULE TOWN CODE OF ETHICS LEGISLATIVE MATTERS V. QUASI-JUDICIAL PROCEEDINGS LEGAL ACTIONS: RULE 106(A), SECTION 1983 CLAIMS, AND OTHER CLAIMS GOVERNMENT IMMUNITY TABOR COLORADO INTERGOVERNMENTAL RISK SHARING AGENCY (CIRSA) SECTION IX: POLICY DOCUMENTS COMPREHENSIVE PLAN COMMUNITY HOUSING PLAN CLIMATE ACTION PLAN OVERVIEW OTHER PLANS SECTION X: AFFILIATIONS BUFFALO RIDGE AFFORDABLE HOUSING BOARD CLIMATE ACTION COLLABORATIVE (CAC) COLORADO ASSOCIATION OF SKI TOWNS (CAST) COLORADO COMMUNITIES FOR CLIMATE ACTION (CC4CA) COLORADO MUNICIPAL LEAGUE (CML) CORE TRANSIT (EVTA) EAGLEBEND AFFORDABLE HOUSING BOARD EAGLEBEND DOWD AFFORDABLE HOUSING BOARD EAGLE COUNTY COMMUNITY WILDLIFE ROUNDTABLE EAGLE COUNTY EMERGENCY RESPONDERS FUND (ECERF) EAGLE COUNTY MENTAL HEALTH ADVISORY BOARD EAGLE RIVER COALITION (ERC) EAGLE RIVER WATER & SANITATION DISTRICT (ERWSD) & UPPER EAGLE RIVER WATER AUTHORITY (UERWA) EAGLE VALLEY BEHAVIORAL HEALTH EGE AIR ALLIANCE (EGE) 1-70 COALITION NORTHWEST COLORADO COUNCIL OF GOVERNMENTS (NWCCOG) SPEAKUP REACHOUT URBAN RUNOFF GROUP (URG) VAIL VALLEY PARTNERSHIP (VVP) SECTION XI: APPENDICES APPENDIX 1 - TOWN ORGANIZATIONAL CHART APPENDIX 2 - COUNCIL SIMPLIFIED RULES OF ORDER APPENDIX 3 - CODE OF ETHICS APPENDIX 4 - BOARDS AND COMMITTEES APPENDIX 5 - RESOLUTIONS ESTABLISHING CITIZEN COMMITTEES APPENDIX 6 - CIVIL ELECTED OFFICIAL'S STARTER KIT APPENDIX 7 - ETHICS, LIABILITY AND BEST PRACTICES HANDBOOK FOR ELECTED OFFICIALS APPENDIX 8 -ADOPTED 2024 BUDGET APPENDIX 9 - CLIMATE ACTION PLAN APPENDIX 10 - COMPREHENSIVE PLAN APPENDIX 11 - HOUSING PLAN Councilors are the leaders and policy makers of the Town of Avon. Council has the authority to approve laws and regulations and adopt policies that direct our municipal government. Council elects the Mayor and the Mayor Pro Tern and appoints the Town Manager, the Town Attorney, the Municipal Court Judge and Prosecuting Attorney. These professional positions serve at the will of the Town Council. General Decorum. Councilors are strongly encouraged to exercise principles of general decorum in all aspects of their official Town conduct including, but not limited to, public statements, press releases, media interviews, and written correspondence constituting a public record. The phrase "general decorum" means politeness, courtesy, professionalism, and avoidance of personal insults, ridicule, bullying, slanderous remarks, and ad hominem attacks with respect to Town officials, Staff/employees, fellow Councilors, and the general public. Town Councilors shall not attend Town Council meetings in an intoxicated state. Conduct outside of Meetings. Councilors' behavior and conduct serve as models for proper decorum in the Town of Avon. Councilors should not make promises or guarantees on behalf of the Town or its Staff, boards, committees, commissioners, Council or other Councilors. While it can be acceptable to publicly disagree about an issue, Councilors are strongly discouraged from making personal attacks or derogatory remarks about other Council members, their opinions, and their actions. If a Councilor appears in a non- official representative capacity before another governmental agency or organization, they shall clearly state that their presence and the statements they make are their own while bearing in mind that such appearance may reflect upon the Town despite such disclaimers. Use of Electronic Devices. Councilors may use computers, electronic tablets, smart phones, personal digital assistants, and similar devices, whether personal or Town -issued, to access data during Council meetings and Town -related work sessions in a manner that is not distracting to others or disruptive to the meeting or session. Councilors shall not communicate using telephonic, text messaging, video chat/streaming, e-mail, or any form of social media during a Council meeting or work session. Personal communication should be kept to a minimum and utilized only for urgent family or personal communications during Council meetings. During quasi-judicial matters, Councilors shall not make, receive, or send personal or private phone calls, text messages, or e-mails while at the Council dais; see Section VII for more information about quasi-judicial matters. Councilors shall not communicate in any electronic format with another Councilor during a Council meeting, work session, or quasi-judicial matter. This policy applies to any pre-existing or proposed social media tools including, but not limited to, social media websites, blogs, microblogging, discussion forums, photo and video sharing websites, Wikipedia and similar media, and virtual platforms used to conduct official Town business including: • Matters effecting the Council's policy making functions; • Discussion or undertaking of a rule, regulation, ordinance, or formal action of the Council; • Quasi-judicial matters; and • Exercise of functions required or authorized by law or involving the receipt or expenditure of public funds. The requirements below should not replace good judgment when posting and utilizing any of the social media set forth above and Councilors are expected to adhere to the follow guidelines when engaging in social media use: • Councilors shall not reveal any confidential or privileged information about the Town, its constituents, its Staff/employees, or its contractors. • Councilors should be honest and accurate to the best of their ability when posting information or news that pertains to the Town and should promptly correct any mistakes, misstatements, and/or factual errors in content they post upon discovery of the same. Councilors shall not post or share information they know is false or intentionally misleading. • Councilors shall not represent that they are acting as a spokesperson for the Town Council, a board or committee, administration, or a department unless they have been designated to serve as a spokesperson for such issue or entity. • Councilors shall not remove comments based on the viewpoint or opinion expressed, The Town of Avon has a Council -Manager form of government, which means the Council establishes priorities and policies and the Town Manager implements the Council's directives. The Town Manager is the chief executive officer of the Town and is responsible for carrying out the Council's directives and administering the day-to-day operations of the Town. The Town Council should communicate all directives to the Town Manager and the Town Manager, in turn, directs Staff. The Town Council should always refrain from attempting to direct Staff. The Charter for the Town of Avon, states that the Council shall not give orders to any subordinates of the Town Manager (Home Rule Charter Chapter 8.5). The Town Attorney is appointed by the Council and serves as a direct report. Councilors may directly contact and communicate with the Town Attorney. The Town Attorney is the legal representative of the Town and advises Council, the Town Manager and Staff on legal matters. The general legal responsibilities of the Town Attorney include: • Provide legal assistance necessary for the formulation and implementation of legislative policies. • Represent the Town's interests, as determined by the Council, in litigation, administrative hearings, negotiations and similar proceedings. • Monitor litigation matters that are being actively handled by outside counsel. • Prepare ordinances, resolutions, contracts and other legal documents. • Keep Council and Staff apprised of legislation and court rulings affecting the legal interests of the Town. • Attend Council meetings, and where necessary, other board and commission meetings. • Respond to all inquiries and communications of a general legal nature from Council, Town Manager and Staff. • Represent the Town in its dealings and negotiations with federal, state and local governmental entities and agencies, special improvement districts and utilities. • Advise on employment matters and advise on all local governmental laws relevant to municipal operations. Avon is a "Home Rule" municipality, a form of government in Colorado under the control of local citizens rather than state government. Towns and cities in Colorado can be either Home Rule or Statutory. Home Rule municipalities have all the powers not expressly denied by the Colorado Constitution and state statutes. Statutory municipalities have only the powers expressly given to them by the Colorado Constitution and state statutes. Home Rule municipalities essentially have more power on a local level. The Town's Home Rule Charter is akin to a constitution for the Town; the Charter defines organizational forms and the powers and duties of Town officials. Voters in the Town approved the Charter in 1978. The laws, rules and regulations that govern and guide the Town's government are included in the Charter and the Avon Municipal Code ("AMC"). The AMC can be amended by the Council through the adoption of ordinances; however, the Charter can only be amended by a vote of the electors of the Town. The Charter and AMC can be accessed at the following link, which is available on the Town's website: https://Iibrary.municode.com/co/avon. See Section VII below for more information. It is important that the Council act as a body. No member of the Council has any more power than other members of the Council. The Mayor and Mayor Pro Tern have additional ceremonial and administrative responsibilities (such as signing certain official documents and chairing meetings); however, all members of the Council are peers with equal rights and duties regarding the establishment of policies. Policy is established by at least a majority vote of the Council, While individual members of the Council may disagree with decisions of the majority, a decision of the majority binds the Council to a course of action. The Mayor presides at all meetings of the Council. The Mayor does not possess any power of veto. The Mayor votes on matters in the same manner as other Council members except that the Mayor votes last during a roll call vote. As presiding officer of the Council, the Mayor should communicate the will of the Council majority in matters of policy. The Mayor is also the official head of the Town for all ceremonial purposes (Home Rule Charter Chapter 4.4). Upon election, each Councilor must take the oath of office set forth in the Charter and is expected, thereafter, to act in accordance with that oath, the Charter and the AMC. The Oath of Office when Councilors get sworn in reads: 1, DO SOLEMNLY SWEAR THAT I WILL SUPPORT THE CONSTITUTION OF THE UNITED STATES AND STATE OF COLORADO, AND THE CHARTER AND ORDINANCES OF THE TOWN OF AVON, AND FAITHFULLY PERFORM THE DUTIES OF TOWN COUNCIL MEMBER FOR THE TOWN OF AVON UPON WHICH I AM ABOUT TO ENTER. Councilors are assigned to serve on various boards and committees to represent the Town and are expected to abide by the parameters of their roles on such boards and committees. The list of Intergovernmental Committees and Authorities that require Council assignments is attached at the end of this Handbook in Appendix 4. Council appointments are usually approved by Council motion and by majority vote of the quorum present. It is not a conflict of interest for a Council member to vote for their own appointment to a board or committees. Councilors should timely keep the Town Manager and Mayor informed of the schedule and actions of such boards and committees, Council shall also be kept informed of substantive actions of such boards and committees and appointed Council members shall strive to solicit Council input and direction on substantive decisions of such boards and committees which may materially affect the Avon community. Councilors should be mindful of their availability and ability to commit to serving on boards or commissions in addition to their service on Council and personal and professional endeavors outside of that role. The Town Organizational Chart is a diagram that details the structure of the organization, including the relationships between departments and relative ranks of positions. For your convenience the most current version of the Town's Organizational Chart is included at the end of this Handbook in Appendix 1. Effective governance of the Town relies upon the cooperation efforts of Councilors who set policy and Staff who implement and administer the Council's policies. Councilors should make every effort to be cooperative and show mutual respect to the Staff. Councilors should refrain from involvement in administrative and employment functions of the Town. The role of Councilors should focus on policy matters, such as adopting ordinances and resolutions, adopting the budget, setting annual goals, providing direction on numerous projects, and providing direction in response to community matters. Individual Council members have the right to ask Staff any questions per the Charter, but may not direct Staff. Questions should be submitted to the Town Manager or to Department Directors with copying the Town Manager. Concerns or criticisms of any Staff persons should be made directly to the Town Manager and/or the Mayor. Councilors are encouraged to be conscious and sensitive to the negative impact of public criticism on Staff as well as the negative impact to the Town's image. Councilors should not attempt to influence or direct Manager or Staff on the making of appointments, employment or personnel matters or decisions, awarding of contracts, selection of consultants, processing of development applications, or granting of licenses or permits. Council members should not solicit political support from Staff in any form including, but not limited to, financial contributions, display of posters or lawn signs, or name on support lists. Staff may support political candidates in a private citizen capacity but all such activities shall be done away from the work place and during private time. Inappropriate involvement in administrative or personnel matters by Councilor(s) can create legal liabilities for Town as well as personal liabilities for the individual Council member and may cause disruption and inefficiencies in Town governance and operations. SECTION II: TYPES OF COUNCIL ACTIONS Ordinances are local laws enacted by the Council. Ordinances are required for every act making an appropriation, creating indebtedness, authorizing the borrowing of money, levying a tax, establishing regulations for which a penalty is imposed, placing a burden upon or limiting the use of private property (e,g. zoning and land use regulations), except that the adoption of the budget and levying of an ad valorem tax (i.e. property tax) is adopted by resolution according to the Charter. Ordinances are required to be approved by two readings, a first reading and a second, final reading except that emergency ordinances can be approved in one reading. A public hearing must be held on second reading or for an emergency ordinance. Quasi-judicial land use matters typically notice and schedule public hearings for both first reading and second reading. Ordinances must be approved by the concurring vote of four (4) Council members except that emergency ordinances require the concurring vote of five (5) Council members. Resolutions adopt policies and remain in effect until rescinded or amended by the Council. Resolutions may enact legislation or policy that is not subject to penalties for violation. A resolution may also state Council's opinion or position on an issue. Resolutions are adopted in one reading by a majority of the quorum present at a Council meeting. Motions are the basic form of meeting procedure and may also be used to approve matters or take actions that do not require the adoption of an Ordinance or Resolution. A motion is used to indicate action on a procedural matter, such as scheduling a special meeting, approving an agenda item or report or taking action. Motions may also be used to formally direct the Town Manager. Motions are approved by a majority vote of the quorum present at a Council meeting. Motions are also the procedure for Council to place an action item on the floor for Council consideration, which requires both a motion and a second. Examples: "I move to approve Ordinance No. 24-XX on first reading," " i move to approve Resolution No. 24 XX', " I move to approve the Council meeting minutes," or " 1 move to direct the Town Manager to do [XX matter]." Proclamations are used to express appreciation for an event, organization or individual and are usually requested by a supporting organization. If a group or individual requests a proclamation, the Mayor may place the matter on the agenda for Council action. Council voting may occur through a roll call vote or a voice vote. A vote to approve an action requires at least one more "yes" vote (or "Aye") than a "no" vote (or "Nay"). In the event of a tie vote, no action is taken. Pursuant to the Simplified Rules of Procedure, if a tie vote occurs, if the majority of votes are negative, or if an insufficient number of affirmative votes are not provided, then Council may either consider alternatives to the proposed action or may decide to move on to other agenda items. SECTION III: BUDGET The annual Town of Avon Budget is the official document which appropriates expenditures for the fiscal year. The Town's fiscal year begins on the first day of January and ends the last day of December each year. The Budget consists of two parts: (1) an estimate of revenues; and, (2) a list of the estimated cost of each item in the budget. The Town Manager develops a budget calendar and then prepares a proposed budget for Council review and adoption pursuant to Chapter XII — Finance and Budget of the Charter. The Budget contains an operational budget, a capital budget, and variety of supplemental budgets for separate funds. Certification of the Town's mill levy must be adopted by Resolution no later than December 15 of each year. The Budget is typically adopted on or before December 15 of each year. If the Budget is not adopted then the amounts approved for operation of the current fiscal year are deemed adopted for the next fiscal year on a month -to - month basis until Council adopts the annual budget (Charter - Section 12.7(b)) The Budget is split into the following funds: (1) General Fund (2) Capital Improvements Projects Fund (CIP Fund) (3) Debt Reserve Fund (4) Mobility Fund (5) Avon Urban Renewal Authority Fund (6) Downtown Development Authority Fund (7) Supplemental Funds, which include: (a) Community Enhancement Fund (b) Community Housing Fund, Disposable Paper Bag Fee Fund (c) Exterior Energy Offset Fund (d) Fleet Maintenance Fund and Equipment Replacement Fund (e) Water Fund. The 2024 Adopted Budget can be found in Appendix 8 and accessed on the Town's website at www.avon.orq/budget. Councilors may receive, upon request, a hard copy of the adopted budget once the adopted budget is published. The Town Manager prepares the annual Budget in accordance with the Charter which is required to include a "budget message". The budget message explains the budget both in fiscal terms and in terms of the work program. The budget message contains the proposed financial policies of the Town for the next fiscal year, describe the important features of the budget, indicate any major changes from the current year in financial policies, expenditures and revenues, together with the reasons for such changes, summarize the Town's debt position, give the balance between the total estimated expenditures and total anticipated revenue from all sources, taking into account the estimated surpluses or deficits in the various funds, and include such other material as the Manager deems necessary or which the Council may require. The Budget is a comprehensive financial plan for the Town's money and activities for the next fiscal year. It must follow legal and Charter requirements but can be organized in a way the Town Manager or Council prefers. The Town Manager should organize the budget using different categories, such as funds, departments, programs and the purpose of spending. The Budget should include a summary of what it contains and should compare the previous year's actuals and estimates for income and the upcoming year's projected figures. It shall include the following in separate sections unless otherwise provided by ordinance: (a) Anticipated revenues classified as cash surplus (extra money available at the start of the year), miscellaneous revenues, and amounts to be received from property tax; (b) Proposed expenditures detail of the planned spending for the year by department and program, and how these will be financed; (c) A reasonable provision for contingencies (unexpected expenses); (d) A capital depreciation account for capital assets, for example buildings and equipment; (e) Debt and Obligations shall include money needed for debt payments, judgements, and statutory obligations; (f) Proposed capital expenditures during the next fiscal year, detailed by offices, departments and agencies when practicable and the proposed method of financing each such capital expenditure; (g) Anticipated net surplus or deficit for the next fiscal year for each utility owned or operated by the Town and the proposed method of its disposition; subsidiary budgets for each such utility giving detailed income and expenditure information shall be attached as appendices to the budget; (h) The bonded and other indebtedness of the Town, lists the Town's debts, including repayment schedules and status of any sinking funds; (i) Other information the Council may request. The Budget is a thorough financial document that details expected revenues, planned expenditures, and other financial commitments. The Budget needs to be well -organized and include specific sections for different types of financial information. (a) The Town Manager shall prepare and submit to the Council a long-range capital improvements projects plan ("CIP Plan") simultaneously with the proposed Budget. The CIP Plan incorporates and implements the direction and goals of Council. (b) The CIP Plan shall include the following, unless otherwise provided by ordinance: (1) A clear general summary of its contents; (2) A list of all capital improvements which are proposed to be undertaken during the following fiscal years, with appropriate supporting information as to the necessity for the improvement; (3) Cost estimates, method of financing and recommended schedules for each such improvement; (4) The estimated annual cost of operating and maintaining the facilities to be constructed or acquired; and, (5) Such other information as the Council may request. This information may be revised or extended each year with regard to capital improvements still pending or in process of construction or acquisition. Public hearings on the proposed Budget and proposed CIP Plan shall be held before final adoption at such time and place as the Council may direct. Notice of such public hearing and notice that the proposed Budget is on file for public inspection in the Town Hall shall be published at least seven days prior to the public hearing. Council shall also conduct a public hearing before adopting any amendments to the Budget. (a) Amendments. After the public hearings, the Council may adopt the Budget with or without amendment. In amending the Budget, it may add or increase programs or amounts and may delete or decrease any programs or amounts, except expenditures required by law for debt service or for estimated cash deficit. (b) Adoption. The Council shall adopt the Budget by Resolution on or before the final day established by law for the certification of the next year's tax levy to the county, usually December 15 each year. If the Council fails to adopt the Budget by this date, the amounts appropriated for the operation of the current fiscal year shall be deemed adopted for the next fiscal year on a month -to -month basis, with all items in it prorated accordingly, until such time as the Council adopts the budget for the next fiscal year (Charter - Section 12.7(b)). (c) Balanced Budget. The Budget's total of the proposed expenditures and provisions for contingencies shall not exceed the total of estimated revenue and unrestricted reserves. (d) Tax Levy. Adoption of the Budget by Council shall constitute appropriations of the amounts specified therein as expenditures from the funds indicated and shall constitute a levy of the property tax proposed. Council shall cause the same to be certified to the appropriate authorities as required by law. The Budget may include an item for contingencies. Except in those cases where there is no logical amount to which an expenditure can be charged, expenditures shall not be charged directly to contingencies; but instead, the necessary part of the appropriation for contingencies shall be transferred to the logical account, and the expenditure charged to such account. No such transfer shall be made without the express approval of the Council, and then only for expenditures which could not readily be foreseen at the time the budget was adopted. Copies of the Budget and CIP Plan as adopted are public records and shall be made available to the public in the Town Hall and on the avon.org website. (a) Supplemental Appropriations. If during the fiscal year the Town Manager certifies that there are available for appropriation revenues in excess of those estimated in the budget, the Council by resolution may make supplemental appropriations for the year up to the amount of such excess. (b) Emergency Appropriations. To meet a public emergency affecting life, health, property or the public peace, the Council may make emergency appropriations. Such appropriations may be made by emergency ordinance in accordance with provisions of the Charter. To the extent that there are no available unappropriated revenues to meet such appropriations, the Council may by emergency ordinance authorize the issuance of emergency notes, which may be renewed from time to time, but the emergency notes and renewals of any fiscal year shall be paid not later than the last day of any fiscal year next succeeding that in which the emergency appropriation was made. (c) Reduction of Appropriations. If at any time during the fiscal year it appears probable to the Town Manager that the revenues available will be insufficient to meet the amount appropriated, the Town Manager must report to the Council without delay, indicating the estimated amount of deficit, any remedial action taken and recommendation(s) as to any other steps to be taken. The Council shall then take action to prevent or minimize any deficit and for that purpose it may by resolution reduce one or more appropriations. (d) Transfer of Appropriations. Any time during the fiscal year, the Town Manager may transfer part or all of any unencumbered appropriation balance among programs within a department, office or agency and, upon written request by the Town Manager, the Council may by resolution transfer part or all of any unencumbered appropriation balance from one department, office, agency or object to another. (e) Limitation - Effective Date. No appropriation for debt service may be reduced below any amount required by law to be appropriated or by more than the amount of the unencumbered balance thereof. The supplemental and emergency appropriation and reduction or transfer of appropriations authorized by this section may be made effective immediately upon adoption. An independent audit shall be made of all Town accounts at least annually, and more frequently if deemed necessary bythe Council. Such audit shall be made by certified or registered public accountants, experienced in municipal accounting, selected by the Council. The Town's current independent audit auditor in 2024 is McMahan and Associates, LLC located in Chapel Square, Avon. Copies of audits shall be made available for public inspection at the Town Hall and on the avon.org website. The Council serves as the Local Liquor Licensing Authority. Please refer to the following excerpt from AMC Chapter 5.08 for more information: 5.08.010 Purpose Pursuant to the authority of Articles 47 and 48 of Title 12, C.R.S., 1973, as amended, which are specifically adopted by the Town, this Chapter is enacted for the purpose of promoting the health, safety and welfare of the present and future inhabitants of the Town by regulating, controlling and licensing the sale of malt, vinous and spirituous liquors. (Ord. 79-22 §1) 5.08.020 Local Licensing Authority — Establishment There is created and established a Local Liquor Licensing Authority for the Town which shall have and is vested with the authority to grant or refuse licenses for the retail sale of malt, vinous and spirituous liquors, as provided by law, to conduct investigations in connection therewith, and to suspend or revoke such licenses for cause in the manner provided by law. The Local Liquor Licensing Authority shall have all the powers and authority granted by Title 12, Articles 47 and 48, C.R.S., 1973, as amended, and by the terms and provisions of this Chapter. (Ord. 79-22 §2(A)) 5.08.030 Local Licensing Authority — membership — organization — compensation (a) Until such time as the Town Council may determine otherwise by ordinance, the membership of the Local Liquor Licensing Authority shall be composed of each and every member of the Town Council. (b) At the next meeting of the Local Liquor Licensing Authority following the final passage of the ordinance codified in this Chapter a chairperson and vice -chairperson shall be elected by those members present at that time from among the entire membership of the authority. The chairperson shall preside at meetings, rule on questions pertaining to procedure and admissibility of evidence and perform such other duties as may be necessary. The vice -chairperson shall assume the duties of the chairperson when the chairperson is absent or incapacitated. A quorum shall consist of four (4) members, and a decision of a majority of the members present at any meeting shall control. The chairperson or acting chairperson shall have full voting rights the same as any other member. (c) Members of the Local Liquor Licensing Authority shall be compensated in the sum of twenty-five dollars ($25.00) for each meeting attended; except that no member shall receive more than fifty dollars ($50.00) in compensation for his or her services rendered during any one (1) month. (Ord. 79-22 §2 (B, C, G)) The Deputy Town Clerk coordinates and administers the liquor licensing application process on behalf of the Town of Avon Local Liquor Board and the State of Colorado Liquor Enforcement Division. Council has delegated authority to the Town Clerk to administer routine liquor license applications, including: 0 Renewals of Liquor Licenses o Modifications o Special Event Permits The Local Liquor Licensing Authority board reviews the following applications: o Applications for new liquor licenses o A change in premise of liquor licenses o Routine applications reviewed by the Town Clerk if there are any violations or new matters revealed in a background check. The Council serves as the Board of Appeals. Please refer to the following excerpt from AMC Chapter 15.06 for more information: 15.06.010 - Appeals to Town Council A person shall have a right to appeal a decision of the Building Official to the Town Council acting in the capacity of the Board of Appeals. An application for appeal shall be filed with the Town Clerk within twenty (20) days after the date of the decision of the Building Official. An application for appeal shall be based on a claim that the true intent of this Code or the rules legally adopted hereunder have been incorrectly interpreted. The application must state the specific order, decision or determination being appealed and include documentation to support the appeal. The Board shall render a decision within thirty (30) days of receipt of the appeal. The decision of the Board shall be by resolution, and copies shall be furnished to the appellant and to the Building Official. The Building Official shall take immediate action in accordance with the decision of the Board. 15.06.020 - Limitations on authority An application for appeal shall be based on a claim that the true intent of this Code or the rules legally adopted thereunder have been incorrectly interpreted, the provisions of this Code do not fully apply or an equally good or better form of construction is proposed. The Town Council acting in the capacity of the Board of Appeals shall have no authority to waive requirements of this Code. 15.06.030 - Limitation of liability Any member of the Town Council, acting in good faith and without malice for the Town in the discharge of his or her duties, shall not thereby render himself or herself personally liable. The members are hereby relieved from all personal liability for any damage that may accrue to persons or property as a result of their duties. Any suit brought against a member or members of the Town Council because of any act or omission performed by them in the discharge of their duties shall be defended by the Town until final termination of the proceedings. The Avon Urban Renewal Authority ("AURA") is a separate governmental entity created by the Town but the Council serves as the AURA board. AURA is responsible for conducting urban renewal activities throughout the Town of Avon. AURA was created in August 2007 to help the Town improve its Town Center Core and includes plans to enhance the West Town Center area, Harry A. Nottingham Park and the Main Street Mall. The AURA has tax increment financing authority which allows the AURA to retain the "increment" (i.e. increase) in property tax from new development for all taxing authorities and use that revenue for capital improvements in the West Town Center Investment Plan area. The AURA's tax increment finance authority for the West Town Center Investment Plan area expires in 2032. The purpose of the AURA is to alleviate blight and promote economic vitality and investment interest in the West Town Center Plan area. Since its inception, the AURA constructed Lake Street (in connection with the Westin hotel development), improved the Main Street Mall and Lettuce Shed Lane (in connection with the Wyndham timeshare development), and completed tenant finish of the new Town Hall building. Future projects are focused on improvements to Harry A. Nottingham Park which support economic activity and recreational enhancements as well as additional improvements to the Main Street Mall. AURA is governed by the Council who serve as the seven -member Board of Commissioners. The Town Manager serves as the Executive Director, who performs all administrative activities for AURA and serves as project manager for all ongoing projects and activities. Below is a copy of the Town Center West Area Urban Renewal Plan: Boundary Map The Housing Authority of the Town of Avon ("Authority") is a separate governmental entity created by the Town. The Authority was established in 1989 following a petition from the public and the Council found and determined there was "a lack of safe or sanitary dwelling accommodation in the Town of Avon for all the inhabitants thereof." The purpose of the Authority is to study and make recommendations concerning the Town's current housing issues. The Authority can plan, construct, reconstruct, improve, alter or repair housing projects and provide accommodations for low-income individuals. The Authority may also secure bonds for financing for future housing projects. Originally, the Authority was to be governered by five Commissioners appointed by the Mayor, with no more than one commissioner being city official. However, it was later determined following a public hearing, that all members of Council are appointed the Commissioners of the Authority. The Avon Downtown Development Authority ("Avon DDA") is a separate governmental entity created by the Town, with a separate Avon DDA board. PRIMARY PURPOSE: The primary purpose of the Avon DDA is to provide additional funds to construct Community Housing. The shortage of affordable housing is at a crisis level and is directly impacting the ability of private and public employers in Avon to fill vacant employment positions. The shortage of affordable housing is also leading to increased employee turn -over and increased costs associated with recruiting and training new employees. SECONDARY PURPOSE: A secondary purpose of the Avon DDA is to provide additional funds for public improvements that benefit the health, vitality and success of the Avon commercial core. Public improvement projects may include public parking structures, enhanced streetscapes and pedestrian connections, early childhood education, expansion of the Avon Recreation Center, and construction of parks and trails amenities. FUNDING: An Avon DDA is authorized to capture the increment of new property taxes from new development and construction within the Avon DDA area. This property tax increment can be pledged for the payment of municipal bonds to construct Community Housing and other approved public improvements. This form of financing is called Tax Increment Financing. The Avon DDA board composition includes one (1) Town Councilor and ten (10) Directors. To be eligible, Directors must reside, be a business lessee, or own real property in the Avon DDA, provided that a majority of Directors must own or reside within the Avon DDA boundaries. The current Board members and their respective terms can be found at www.avon.org/dda. The boundary area of the Avon DDA encompasses the West Town Center, East Town Center and valley floor area of the Village (at Avon) as seen below. Refer to Ordinance 23-02 to view the boundary in greater detail. SECTION VI: PLANNING AND ZONING COMMISSION The Town of Avon has a Planning and Zoning Commission ("PZC") which is appointed by the Council and which serves a significant role in reviewing development applications, revisions to the Development Code (Title 7 of the AMC), and amendments to the Comprehensive Plan document. A Planning and Zoning Commission is a common entity that nearly all municipalities and counties have appointed. The scope of duties and authority involve review of development and land use changes that affect constitutional property rights and due process rights of both property owners and nearby residents and property owners that may be affected by such application. As such, the PZC meetings and actions are highly structured to provide notice and conduct public hearings as set forth in the Development Code. The Development Code was adopted in 2010 which was the culmination of a two-year process to consolidate and update the former AMC titles for zoning and subdivision. The Development Code is typically amended once each year for routine updates and refinements. The purposes of the PZC are stated in Section 7.04.030 of the Development Code as follows: 7.04.030 - Purposes. The Development Code is intended to promote and achieve the following goals and purposes for the Avon community, including the residents, property owners, business owners and visitors: (a) Divide the Town into zones, restricting and requiring therein the location, erection, construction, reconstruction, alteration and use of buildings, structures and land for trade, industry, residence and other specified uses; regulate the intensity of the use of lot areas; regulate and determine the area of open spaces surrounding such buildings; establish building lines and locations of buildings designed for specified industrial, commercial, residential and other uses within such areas; establish standards to which buildings or structures shall conform; establish standards for use of areas adjoining such buildings or structures; (b) Implement the goals and policies of the Avon Comprehensive Plan and other applicable planning documents of the Town; (c) Comply with the purposes stated in state and federal regulations which authorize the regulations in this Development Code; (d) Avoid undue traffic congestion and degradation of the level of service provided by streets and roadways, promote effective and economical mass transportation and enhance effective, attractive and economical pedestrian opportunities; (e) Promote adequate light, air, landscaping and open space and avoid undue concentration or sprawl of population; (t) Provide a planned and orderly use of land, protection of the environment and preservation of viability, all to conserve the value of the investments of the people of the Avon community and encourage a high quality of life and the most appropriate use of land throughout the municipality; (g) Prevent the inefficient use of land; avoid increased demands on public services and facilities which exceed capacity or degrade the level of service forexisting residents; provide for phased development of government services and facilities which maximizes efficiency and optimizes costs to taxpayers and users; and promote sufficient, economical and high -quality provision of all public services and public facilities, including but not limited to water, sewage, schools, libraries, police, parks, recreation, open space and medical facilities; (h) Minimize the risk of damage and injury to people, structures and public infrastructure created by wild fire, avalanche, unstable slopes, rock fall, mudslides, flood danger and other natural hazards; (i) Achieve or exceed federal clean air standards; Q) Sustain water sources by maintaining the natural watershed, preventing accelerated erosion, reducing runoff and consequent sedimentation, eliminating pollutants introduced directly into streams and enhancing public access to recreational water sources; (k) Maintain the natural scenic beauty of the Eagle River Valley in order to preserve areas of historical and archaeological importance, provide for adequate open spaces, preserve scenic views, provide recreational opportunities, sustain the tourist -based economy and preserve property values; (I) Promote architectural design which is compatible, functional, practical and complimentary checking to Avon's sub -alpine environment; (m) Achieve innovation and advancement in design of the built environment to improve efficiency, reduce energy consumption, reduce emission of pollutants, reduce consumption of non- renewable natural resources and attain sustainability; (n) Achieve a diverse range of attainable housing which meets the housing needs created by jobs in the Town, provides a range of housing types and price points to serve a complete range of life stages and promotes a balanced, diverse and stable full time residential community which is balanced with the visitor economy; (o) Promote quality real estate investments which conserve property values by disclosing risks, taxes and fees; by incorporating practical and comprehensible legal arrangements; and by promoting accuracy in investment expectations; and (p) Promote the health, safety and welfare of the Avon community. The PZC also serves as a Design Review Board for the Town. The purposes of the PZC when acting as the design review board are as follows: • To ensure that the architectural design of vertical structures and their materials and colors conform with the Town's overall appearance, with surrounding development if appropriate, with natural and existing landforms, with the standards identified in the Development Code and with officially approved development plans, if any, for the areas in which the structures are proposed to be located; • To ensure that the location and configuration of vertical structures, including signs and signage, are contextually appropriate to their sites and with surrounding sites and structures if appropriate and that the structures and signage conform to the requirements of the Development Code; • To ensure that plans for the landscaping of property and open spaces conform with the rules and regulations as prescribed by the Town and to provide appropriate settings for vertical structures on the same site and on adjoining and nearby sites as determined by the Development Code; and • To prevent excessive or unsightly grading of property that could cause disruption of natural watercourses or scar natural landforms. The PZC is composed of seven (7) members appointed by Council for a two (2) year term. The current Planning Commissioners and their respective terms can be found at www.avon.orq/pzc. Please click here for the Town of Avon zoning map. Public comment can be submitted to Staff on behalf of the PZC at pzc(a.avon.org. Since 2019 Council appoints three separate Citizen Committees to increase input and involvement from the Avon community. The three Citizen Committees include the Culture, Arts & Special Events Committee, the Finance Committee, and the Health & Recreation Committee. The Culture, Arts & Special Events ("CASE") Committee was adopted by Resolution 19-12 in May 2019, to formalize and establish a permanent citizen committee after two years of an initial Ad Hoc Special Events Committee. To date, CASE has primarily provided input on the strategic planning and investment in special events held from Spring through Fall. The purposes and duties of the CASE Committee are as follows: • To provide advice concerning the Cultural Plan for the Town of Avon, as may be amended from time to time; • To review, research and provide guidance and advice on culture, arts and special event programming in the Town of Avon; • To review applications for Town funding allocated for special events and provide recommendations to the Council, and to develop applications forms and procedures and review criteria related to such funding applications; • To conduct surveys and prepare reports related to special events as appropriate and as directed by Council; • To attend joint meetings with the Council to review past, present and future special events, review and evaluate implementation of the Cultural Plan, review annual appropriations to support culture, arts and special events, and to review policies, procedures and practices for culture, arts and special events and CASE; and, • To perform such other tasks related to culture, arts and special events in or near Avon as the Council may direct. The CASE Committee is composed of seven (7) voting members and two (2) Ex-Officio Non -Voting Council members appointed by Council. The current CASE Committee members and their respective terms can be found here: www.Avon.org/Case-Committee. The Resolution adopting the CASE Committee is attached at the end of this Handbook in Appendix 5. The Finance Committee was adopted by Resolution 19-15 in July 2019 and extended by Resolution 22-14 in June 2022. The purposes and duties of the Finance Committee are as follows: • To review, research and study the Town's tax and fee structure and sources of revenue, including but not limited to: (i) comparisons to both incorporated and unincorporated peer communities, (ii) potential volatility associated with various revenue sources, and (iii) determining the percentage of revenues attributable to residents, second homeowners, visitors and businesses; • To review, research and study the Town's economy as it relates to the Town's finances; • To prepare reports as appropriate to assist the Council and the general public to better understand the Town's finances; • To make recommendations to the Council consist with this Resolution; and, • To perform such other tasks related to the Town's finances as the Council may request. The Finance Committee is a temporary, non -permanent advisory board and shall automatically expire on January 31, 2024 unless terminated earlier by Council resolution or unless the expiration date is extended by Council by resolution. The committee is composed of five (5) to nine (9) voting members and two (2) Ex- Officio Non -Voting Council members appointed by Council. The current Finance Committee members and their respective terms can be found here: www.avon.orq/Finance-Committee. The Resolution adopting the Finance Committee is attached at the end of this Handbook in Appendix 5. The Health & Recreation Committee was adopted as an ad -hoc committee by Resolution 19-16 in July 2019, extended in February 2022 by Resolution 22-02 and made into a permanent committee by Resolution 24- 05 in February 2024. The purposes and duties of the Health & Recreation Committee are as follows: • To review, research and study the Town of Avon's health and recreation, including but not limited to: (i) "healthy community" issues, planning, policies and implementing strategies for improving overall community health, (ii) comparisons to both incorporated and unincorporated peer communities of recreation facilities and programs, and (iii) the design, programming and estimated cost of recreational facility improvements, including but not limited to remodeling and expansion of the Avon Recreation Center; • Conducting community outreach, studies and surveys to determine community preferences for recreation programming, recreation facilities and healthy community policies; • Serve as a liaison to Eagle County health communities efforts; and • To provide recommendations to the Council concerning healthy community, recreation programming and recreation facilities. The Health & Rec Committee is a permanent advisory board composed of five (5) to nine (9) voting members and two (2) rotating Ex-Officio Non -Voting Council members appointed by Council. The current Health & Rec Committee members and their respective terms can be found here: www.avon.or-q/HealthandRec- COMMittPP. The resolution adopting the Health & Recreation Committee is attached at the end of this Handbook in Appendix 5. SECTION VIII: MUNICIPAL LAWS The Town of Avon is a municipal corporation formed pursuant to the laws of the State of Colorado. As a municipal corporation there are a wide variety of laws that apply to the Town of Avon as a local government entity. While the entire AMC is lengthy and the Colorado Revised Statutes are vast, Council members should have a basic familiarity with the municipal laws described in this Section. Avon citizens adopted home rule authority for the Town of Avon in 1978 at the time that Avon was incorporated in conformity with Article XX of the Colorado Constitution. This authority is primarily documented and described in the Avon Home Rule Charter ("Charter"). There are a total of 105 home rule municipalities in Colorado, including 62 cities and 38 towns. Home Rule authority provides the Town of Avon with greater authority to legislation on matters of local concern, with the limitation that the Town cannot infringe upon federal or state constitutional rights. There are a number of areas considered matters of "state concern" where the State of Colorado has "preempted regulations" and where the Town cannot adopt different regulations (e.g. fire arms, liquor laws, drinking water quality, vehicle registration) and other areas that are considered matters of "mixed local and state concern" where the Town of Avon has authority to regulate to the extent that such regulations do not conflict with state regulations. Colorado first adopted the open meetings laws (aka "Colorado Sunshine Law") in 1972, Basically, the rule is local government meetings must be open to the public and must be noticed at least 24 hours in advance of such meeting. The Colorado Open Meetings Law allows public access to all meetings, with the exception of executive sessions. Executive sessions (closed door meetings) must meet specific legal criteria and be for the purpose of receiving legal advice on a specific legal matter, negotiation, a personnel matter, or another subject that is protected by law, A request to meet in executive session must be voted on and approved by 2/3rds of Council members at the meeting before Council may convene into executive session. Please view this Quick Guide to Executive Sessions. The Open Meeting Law defines a "local public body' as any board, committee, commission or other policy making, rulemaking, advisory or formally constituted body of a political subdivision of the state such as municipalities. The Open Meetings Law defines a "meeting" as any kind of gathering, convened to discuss public business, in person, by telephone, electronically or by other means of communication. The Openness Requirement: Whenever three or more members of the Council (the local "public body') get together and public business is discussed, or formal action may be taken, the gathering is considered a "meeting." The law requires that the public be given timely notice of meetings; this means that meetings must be noticed (i.e. posted in designated locations in Town) at least twenty-four hours in advance. Meetings conducted by telephone, electronically or by other means of communication: Technological advancements have provided many methods for public officials to confer such as videoconferencing, conference calls, text messaging, and e-mails. Consequently, the Open Meeting Law now includes "electronic" as well as "other means" of communication under the statutory definition of "meeting." The Open Meeting Law now explicitly subjects the e-mail communication of elected officials that discusses pending legislation or other public business to the requirements of the law. Social Gatherings: The Open Meetings Law provides that chance meetings or social gatherings of public officials at which discussion of public business is not the central purpose are not subject to the provisions of the law. Council members should not discuss any Town business if three or more Council members encounter each other at a chance meeting or social gathering. The Colorado Open Records Act ("CORA") statute provides public access to public records in the possession of all levels of government in Colorado, including municipalities. CORA requires that public records must be produced upon request to the public. A "public record" includes all writings and electronic documents and records that are made, maintained or kept by the Town. There are some exceptions to records that are in the Town's possession which are not "public records" including confidential records. CORA is a very detailed and highly structured act that creates regular duties for the Town Clerk, as the official custodian of public records, to respond to public records requests. The Public Records Policy is available on the Town's website. The Town Clerk takes minutes of every regular, special and emergency Council meeting and presents a draft of meeting minutes for Council adoption thereafter. Minutes are a summary of the meeting that indicates the actions taken and shall include brief descriptions of discussions which occur on various matters, The Town Clerk records all regular, special and emergency meetings of the Council. Meeting minutes are available on the Town's avon.org website. The Town Clerk is responsible for records retention. In 2003, the Town approved Resolution No. 03-26 to follow Colorado's Model Municipal Records Retention Schedule, You can find the Municipal Records Retention Manual here. The Code of Ethics, AMC Chapter 2,30, prohibit Council Members, appointed officials, appointed board, committee and commission members, and Town employees from taking action in their capacity for the Town when there is a conflict of interest. The conflict of interest restrictions primarily concern matters in which a Council Member, appointed official, appointed board, committee and commission member or Town employee may have a significant financial interest, including a potential future financial interest but also addresses an "appearance of impropriety". The Code of Ethics dictates that Council is to determine if a conflict of interest exists; this is not a determination of an individual Councilor. Under the Code of Ethics, a conflict of interest may be determined by the Council to exist when an actual conflict does not exist but merely the appearance of a conflict exists. The Town Code of Ethics also includes provisions on gift restrictions and reporting. Councilor's are expected to review and understand the Code of Ethics section of the AMC (Appendix 3), which is located in Chapter 2.30 Town Code of Ethics. Council members are required to disclose conflicts of interest (AMC Chapter 2.30.060), refrain from attempting to influence other members of the Council on the matter, refrain from discussing the matter with other Council members, may not vote on the matter and must leave the Council chambers when the matter is being discussed. A general rule is if the matter involves anything in which a Council member has or might have a direct or indirect financial interest, except for matters of common public interest, such matters must be disclosed and the Council will promptly vote to determine whether a conflict of interest exists . Consult with the Town Attorney whenever there is any question about whether you may be determined to have a conflict of interest. If in doubt always disclose the matter at a Council meeting. State and Federal Courts characterize certain governmental entity decisions as either legislative or quasi- judicial; quasi-judicial is when applying constitutional due process (fair hearing) is required. It is important to understand the differences between the two as Courts require special procedures to be followed for quasi-judicial matters. Legislative Matters: Legislative matters are matters of general concern or with applicability throughout a municipality. In the legislative role, the Council reviews, recommends, creates, and amends regulations on a Town wide basis. Legislative matters are frequently referred to as "policy making" and the Council may freely discuss legislative matters with the general public. • Examples: Resolutions or Ordinances with broad application and amendments to the Municipal Code. uasi-Judicial Matters: Quasi-judicial matters involve the application of established policy in existing law to facts presented to Council at quasi-judicial hearings in order to reach a decision. In other words, Council does not set new policy in a quasi-judicial proceeding. Instead, Council applies policy that is already established in existing law to specific facts gathered at the hearing to arrive at its decision on the case presented. Examples: Special use permits, zoning variances, subdivision plat approvals, liquor license issuance, and nuisance abatement. During quasi-judicial hearings, the Council acts in a manner similar to a judge and it must make an objective decision that is based upon the evidence presented at the hearing and the current law and applicable legal standard. These proceedings impact the property rights of an individual, an entity, or a small group of individuals and fairness and due process must occur. Everyone with an interest in the case, as well as all members of the decision -making body, must hear the same evidence at the same time from the same sources. The applicant, appellant, or property owner deserves the opportunity for a fair, impartial hearing before unbiased, impartial decision makers, each of whom have had the benefit of the same input and testimony. During quasi-judicial hearings, Council will not engage in reflective listening. Council's Impartiality in a Quasi -Judicial Proceeding may be affected by: Pre -judgment or bias. An individual Councilor's desires, personal preferences, or prejudices must not be a factor for consideration or enter into their decision -making. A councilor must not have their mind made up before the hearing and must remove themselves from the process if they have advocated one way or the other on a quasi-judicial matter. Each Councilor participating in the hearing must have the ability to decide the case fairly and impartially in a manner that is solely based on the evidence and testimony presented to them at the hearing. Conflicts of Interest. See Chapters 2.30,060 and 2.30.080 regarding Conflict of Interest and Disclosure of Conflict of Interest in Council Action as set forth in the Town's Ethics Code. 0 Ex-Parte Communications. Ex-Parte communication refers to information received "outside of the record" whether verbal, written, electronic, or graphic. Ex-parte communications are also defined as communication between a Councilor and one party outside the presence of the other parties to the case or other affected individuals. Due to the legal constraints of this process, Councilors may not discuss quasi-judicial issues outside of a hearing and Council must refrain from listening to opinions outside of the public hearing and should not form opinions until the hearing. Council should also refrain from researching the issue outside the hearing. If a member of the public or the applicant attempts to share opinions or discuss the issue with a Councilor outside of the hearing, the Councilor must explain they cannot engage in ex-parte communication regarding quasi-judicial matters. Instead, the Councilor should direct the individual to provide written comments to Staff so such comments can be included in the public record and considered by all Council members at the proper time. Courts generally hold that ex parte communications are improper and may provide legal grounds for overturning a Council's decision. These rules promote impartial decisions by ensuring disclosure of all evidence and arguments presented to the Council in its deliberation and decision. These rules also give everyone involved a fair chance to respond to all information that may affect the decision. If any Councilor believes that their ability to participate in the hearing fairly and impartially has been compromised they must cure the issue by disclosing the issue on the record or recusing themselves from the hearing. There is always the potential for lawsuits against the Town of Avon to challenge a Town action, attempt to compel a Town action or seek damages against the Town. Although a complete review of potential legal challenges is not possible, several common claims against municipalities are highlighted for Council's awareness. Council Members Named Individually: It is typical for most lawsuits against a municipality to name the Town of Avon as a municipal organization and then also name Council members individually. That general rule is that the Town of Avon defends actions and decisions of individual Council member while serving in their official capacity. The exception to this rule is if a Council member is acting unlawfully (i.e. a violation of Council oath to uphold laws) in a knowing or reckless manner. An example would be if a Council member attempted to approve a contract as an individual that obligated the Town to payments or created Town liability when the contract was not authorized by Council or Town Manager. Such instances are very rare and typically involve some form of knowing and intentional financial conflict of interest. Rule 106(a) Actions: Colorado Rules of Civil Procedure include the ability to legally challenge and invalidate a local government decision as "arbitrary and capricious" under Rule 106(a). The local government decision that is subject to a Rule 106(a) challenge is typically a "quasi-judicial" decision. A Rule 106(a) challenge must be filed in District Court within 28 days after the date of the final decision of the Town of Avon. The AMC is structured to allow any administrative decision or PZC decision to be appealed to the Council so that for nearly all instances it is only the final decision of Council that may be challenged in District Court. Rule 106(a) challenges can arise from any land use decision, code enforcement action, decision on the payment of a tax, fee or fine, or decision affecting a business interest such as a business license or liquor license. Rule 106(a) challenges are a review of the "record of decision" where all materials considered for the decision, including Staff reports, applicant information, and public comment, and a transcript of the public hearing. Often times a "Record of Decision" is prepared and formally adopted by Council which documents all the materials and the Council "findings of fact" that serve as the basis for a decision. The most important aspect to understand is that Council must base its quasi-judicial decisions on specific "findings of fact" that relate to adopted review criteria to survive a legal challenge that a Council decision is arbitrary and capricious. Section 1983 Actions: Section 1983 actions refer to a section of the federal code which allows individuals to sue governmental entities for violations of federal constitutional rights under "color of law". These actions allow for potential recovery of attorneys' fees and damages. Examples of Section 1983 claims include land use decisions that result in a "taking" of private property or denial of "due process", alleged practices by police departments that discriminate against persons based on race, nationality or ethnicity, and local government practices that infringe upon free speech. Awareness and compliance with constitutional law is a routine and fundamental function of the Town of Avon as a local government entity. Tort Claims: Tort claims involve claims for damages when someone experiences personally injury or property damage that is the result of the Town having a duty in some manner to the individual, breaches the duty, and such breach causes the damages. Tort claims against local government are highly regulated the Colorado Governmental Immunity Act, which is discussed more below. Avon, local nearly all local governments, routinely receives "notice of claims" and coordinates response to such claims with CIRSA. The most direct areas of tort claims for concern are road hazards (i.e. open excavation in travelled roadway) and entrances to public buildings. Breach of Contract: The of Town of Avon is subject to breach of contract claims, and may bring breach of contract claims, in the same manner as private parties. There are some contract terms that are unique to local governments and municipalities. Generally, the Town uses standardizes forms, or incorporates standardized municipal provisions, that are commonly used by municipalities which protect the Town from liability. When retaining a party to provide services the Town generally structures contracts to receive services first and pay after performance of services. Local Government Statutory Claims: There are numerous statutory requirements for local government, such as compliance with the Colorado Open Records Act and Colorado Open Meetings Law, that establish the right of individuals to bring legal actions for non-compliance. Statute of Limitations: The last legal concept to mention is the Statute of Limitations which creates deadlines to bring legal actions, whether against the Town or by the Town. There are different rules for enforcement of code violations, recovery of taxes and fees, breach of contract, collection of debts and filing claims based in tort. Sovereign immunity is the state's immunity from most kinds of lawsuits unless the state consents to be sued. Governmental immunity is generally understood to be that portion of the state's sovereign immunity which extends to local governments. Governmental immunity bars tort claims against local governments for injuries caused by their employees or agents acting within the scope of their duties in the performance of governmental functions. It does not protect a local government from tort claims arising from the performance of proprietary functions. Much of the case law involving governmental immunity focuses on whether (1) the employee who caused the injury was acting within the scope of the employee's duties and (2) whether the activity in which the employee was engaged was governmental or proprietary. The Colorado Intergovernmental Risk Sharing Agency (CIRSA), is a public entity formed over 30 years ago by Colorado municipalities for Colorado municipalities. With more than 270 communities and public entities, CIRSA is a self-insurance pool and member -owned organization which provides member -influence over the programs and services CIRSA offers. As a member, the Town's contribution buys an equity interest in CIRSA's self -insured pool potentially lowering our future contributions. CIRSA proactively identifies and manages risks, improves the claims experience, and works collaboratively with the Town to cut our losses, In addition, CIRSA provides free training and education for elected officials and board members, enriched resources ranging from on-the-job safety training to workplace harassment awareness, practical tools plus webinars and safety manuals, and in the event that a claim or lawsuit is filed, CIRSA will manage the process and assign an experienced public entity attorney to represent the Town. TABOR is the Taxpayer Bill of Rights, passed by the voters in 1992. TABOR prohibits any tax increase without a vote of the people. In addition, TABOR places strict limits on how much revenue the state of Colorado can keep and how much it can spend. Specifically, TABOR allows the state to retain and spend an amount based on the prior fiscal year's actual revenue or limit, whichever was lower, grown by Colorado inflation and population growth and adjusted for any "voter -approved revenue changes. TABOR limits are the strictest revenue and spending limits in the nation. Any revenue collected in excess of TABOR's revenue limits must be refunded to the taxpayers. For more information about TABOR, visit the following pages on the Legislative Council Staff website: • TABOR Revenue Limit • History of TABOR Refund Mechanism • History of TABOR Enterprises • Report on Referendum C Revenue and Spending SECTION IX: POLICY DOCUMENTS Council has adopted a variety of formal Policy Documents over the years. These documents are typically created through a community engagement process and subject to multiple public hearings prior to adoption. These Policy Documents provide general goals and defined strategies for implementation which often transcend Councilor's 4-year terms. It is important to acknowledge these Policy Documents for decision making and prioritizing the Town's Staff work plans; as well it is important to update and revise such documents to reflect accomplishments as well as changed circumstances which may require a change in community goals, strategies and priorities. Avon's Comprehensive Plan (Appendix 10), adopted in 2017, was recently awarded the Vernon Deines Award for Outstanding Small Town or Rural Plan by the prestigious American Planning Association. Avon's Comprehensive Plan is an overarching plan that guides Avon's land use and development. The Comprehensive Plan creates the goals and policies that encourage the type of growth and values that Avon citizens envisioned during the public comment process. A number of overarching goals and policies provide direction in the following community -wide topic areas: A. Built Form B. Land Uses C. Community Character D. Economic Development E. Housing F. Multi -modal Transportation & Parking G. Environment H. Parks, Recreation, Trails, and Open Space I. Public Services, Facilities, Utilities, and Government J. Regional Coordination Each topic area contains one or more goals and several specific policy objectives. Certain goals and policies are more specific and timely than others; however, all goals and policies contribute to the vision of the plan and its implementation. Finally, certain policies interrelate to several topic areas (such as policies that are relevant to both Land Use and Economic Development). The comprehensive plan also serves as a basis for the adoption of the zoning map and amendments to the zoning map. The Community Housing Plan (Appendix 11), last updated in 2021 sets the following goals and objectives: a. Support the establishment of a dedicated funding source to sustain the Community Housing Fund; b. Focus on increasing deed restricted homeownership opportunities for households making equivalent of 140% or less of the Area Median Income ("AMI"). A household of three earning 140% AMI is expected to be able to afford a home price of $571,000 in 2021, c. Grow the inventory of homeownership and "missing middle" inventory, in place of additional rental housing stock, to create a more balanced portfolio with a long-term goal of more home ownership opportunities; d. When considering new rental housing, prioritize price point, quality and amenities attractive to "step up" renters and seniors looking to downsize, focusing on the 80-120% AMI level; e. Stabilize or increase the percentage of owner -occupied year-round residents; currently 56.5% of all dwelling units in Avon are owner -occupied by year-round residents; f. Stabilize or increase the percentage of Qualified Employees residing in Avon; g. Seek to add deed restricted units to the inventory through the Mi Casa program and other mechanisms; h. Partner with other communities and entities (i.e. Habitat for Humanity, Vail, Eagle County), and private employers to combine buying power and construct new housing units: i. As sites redevelop, strive for "no net loss" of units in the 80- 120% AMI range, and when possible, increase housing serving the local year-round population; and Re-evaluate goals and objectives on an annual basis, including the ongoing monitoring of new projects and housing stock in the mid -valley; appendices may be updated by Community Development Department pending updated information. On December 13, 2016, Council unanimously voted to adopt the Climate Action Plan for the Eagle County Community (Appendix 9). The plan is the culmination of a year -long effort that included more than 30 Eagle County stakeholders who were tasked with reducing GHG emissions for the entire County. The 2020 update to the Climate Action Plan for the Eagle County Community calls for greenhouse gas emission reduction targets of 50% by 2030 and a minimum of 80% by 2050. Energy use, transportation use, commercial buildings, waste and energy sources are all addressed within the plan, which is focused on climate mitigation. In order to meet the established targets, the plan also contains project recommendations for the community, including county government, towns, businesses, nonprofits, and other partners to begin immediate climate action. The collaborative stakeholder group continues to convene regularly to implement the goals and strategies recommended in the Climate Action Plan and monitor success. Five sector -based working groups have formed: 1) Education and Outreach 2) Residential Buildings 3) Commercial Buildings and Industrial 4) Transportation and Mobility 5) Materials Management and Waste Reduction. Walking Mountains Science Center was contracted to serve as project manager to convene and facilitate this community -wide project. The Community Development Department is responsible for managing the Town's built environment and creating a livable community that balances the needs of residents, businesses, property owners and visitors. Below is an overview of the long-range documents and plans Long -Range Documents: • (2024) Avon Comprehensive Plan • (2021) Avon Community Housing Plan • (2018) Town Owned Properties Plan • (2015) Avon Urban Renewal Plan for Town Center West Area • (2018) Multimodal Transportation and Parking Plan • (2015) Walkability Report • (2009) Harry A. Nottingham Park Master Plan • (2009) Transportation Plan • (2007) West Town Center Investment Plan • (2007) East Town Center District Plan SECTION X: AFFILIATIONS Buffalo Ridge Apartments are owned and operated by the Buffalo Ridge Affordable Housing Corporation, a Colorado non-profit corporation formed pursuant to the guidelines of revenue ruling 1963-20. The formation of the Corporation was approved by the Town of Avon and the Corporation is being operated exclusively on behalf of and for the benefit of the Town. The management of the Corporation is accomplished through a Board of Directors (the "Board") which oversees administration, operations and maintenance of the Project. The Climate Action Collaborative ("CAC") for the Eagle County Community is a group of local governments, businesses, schools, special districts and nonprofits tasked to implement the recommendations of the Climate Action Plan for the Eagle County Community. The plan recommends county -wide carbon pollution reduction targets of 50% by 2030 and 80% by 2050, from the Eagle County 2014 baseline inventory. The Collaborative meets quarterly and includes working groups focusing on reductions in: buildings (residential & commercial), transportation, the landfill, and our energy supply. There is also a working group dedicated to education and outreach in the Eagle Valley. For more information about the Climate Action Collaborative visit their website at www.waIkingmountains.org/climate-action-collaborative. The Colorado Association of Ski Towns ("CAST") is an organization of 26 municipalities and four counties whose economies are largely dependent upon the ski industry and tourism. Members include the mayors, managers and council members of the resort towns. The Association was formed in part to recognize that resort communities face unique challenges in providing municipal services to residents and visitors, Member municipalities share the benefits of the diverse knowledge, experience and leadership offered through meetings, conferences, surveys and other informational venues, as decided by the members. CAST members use the power of the coalition to seek support for legislation that will benefit and sustain the mountain communities. CAST supports actions that keep member communities livable, protect their pristine environments, and promote community -based land use, mass transit, affordable housing, and sustainable tourism. CAST's goal is to foster growth that will ensure an exceptional quality of life for citizens and a positive experience for visitors. For more information about CAST visit their website at www.coskitowns.com. Colorado Communities for Climate Action ("CC4CX) is a coalition of 34 local governments across the state advocating for stronger state and federal climate policy. CC4CA is governed by a Board of Directors of representing all of the member communities. Colorado Communities for Climate Action has adopted, by unanimous consent among its members, a policy statement that guides the coalition's efforts. The Policy Statement includes promoting plans and actions to: a. Extend current authorities and provide new ones for local action. b. Set new state climate -protection goals. C. Define and implement concrete steps to meet those goals. d. Reduce carbon pollution through concrete new policies on electricity generation, energy efficiency, transportation, and waste management. e. Ensure that all of Colorado benefits from the clean energy transformation. For more information about the CC4CA visit their website at www.cc4ca.org. The Colorado Municipal League ("CML") is a non-profit organization that has served and represented Colorado cities and towns since 1923. Currently 265 of Colorado's 271 municipalities are members of CIVIL. CIVIL provides advocacy, information and training to its members. CML's mission is twofold: to represent cities and towns collectively in matters before the state and federal government, and to provide a wide range of information services to assist municipal officials in managing their government. Then Town of Avon is a member of CIVIL and the organization sends an informational welcome packet to newly elected council members and monthly newsletters. In addition, CIVIL has an Elected Official's Starter Kit available on their website. For your convenience, this kit has been attached at the end of this Handbook in Appendix 6. For more information about CIVIL, please visit their website at www.cml.org. The Eagle Valley Transportation Authority ("EVTA") is a seven member board comprised of one member from every participating jurisdiction in Eagle County. EVTA board members are appointed by their jurisdiction's council members. The half -cent county sales tax is dedicated to funding regional transportation. The EVTA board meets monthly to make to discuss long- and short-term plans and strategies for the provision of regional mass transportation and trails in and around Eagle County. For more information about the EVTA Advisory Board visit their website at hUps://evta.colorado.gov/ EagleBend Apartments are owned and operated by the EagleBend Affordable Housing Corporation, a Colorado non-profit corporation. The formation of the Corporation was approved by the Town of Avon and the Corporation is being operated exclusively on behalf of and for the benefit of the Town. The management of the Corporation is accomplished through a Board of Directors (the "Board") which oversees administration, operations and maintenance of the Project. Kayak Crossing Apartments are owned and operated by the EagleBend Dowd Affordable Housing Corporation, a Colorado non-profit corporation formed pursuant to the guidelines of revenue ruling 1963-20. The formation of the Corporation was approved by the Town of Avon and the Corporation is being operated exclusively on behalf of and for the benefit of the Town. The management of the Corporation is accomplished through a Board of Directors (the "Board") which oversees administration, operations and maintenance of the Project. The Eagle County Community Wildlife Roundtable is a collaborative partnership with the White River National Forest, Colorado Parks and Wildlife, Bureau of Land Management, local government entities, community members, and citizen scientists. The purpose of the Eagle County Community Wildlife Roundtable is to gather a group of diverse stakeholders in the valley to understand and address issues facing wildlife populations. Together we will identify a shared vision and realistic actions that the community can rally around to support wildlife. We want to leverage diverse values, creativity, and resources to move to positive action. Eagle County Emergency Responders Fund ("ECERF") a 501(c) (3) non-profit organization was founded by a group of civilians and emergency responders committed to raising funds on behalf of all emergency responders in Eagle County, Colorado. For more information about ECERF visit: www.ecerf.org. In 2018 the Eagle County Board of Commissioners appointed 10 members to its Mental Health Advisory Committee. The committee is tasked with prioritizing programs and services to be funded through county's voter -approved Mental Health Fund, as well as other sources. Members of the committee represent health care and mental health care providers, law enforcement personnel, and community advocates across both the Eagle and Roaring Fork valleys. The Eagle River Coalition ("ERC") believes that our rivers and streams are the life -blood of our valley. Their preservation and restoration improve our economy, our culture, and our quality of life. The Watershed Council advocates for our rivers through educational programs, special events, restoration projects, monitoring, research, and community volunteer projects. For more information about Eagle River Coalition visit: www.erwc.orq. The Eagle River Water & Sanitation District ("ERWSD") is a local government that provides water and wastewater service to its customers from East Vail to Wolcott and including all of Avon. ERWSD directors are elected by qualified district voters within the district boundary; ERWSD's website reports that it conducts its operations in an environmentally sound manner, ensuring regulatory requirements are met while also forging strong partnerships within the recreation and tourism -based community. ERWSD provides water service within its district water service area which includes the Vail Water Subdistrict and properties of the Wolcott area that have been included into ERWSD boundary. ERWSD provides, under contract, water operations and management (0&M) services to the Upper Eagle Regional Water Authority ("UERWA"). UERWA is a quasi -municipal corporation and political subdivision of the state of Colorado, formed by intergovernmental contract and organized pursuant to Colorado's Water Authority Act. It provides water service to its six Member Entities (the metropolitan districts of Arrowhead, Beaver Creek, Berry Creek, EagleVail, and Edwards, along with the Town of Avon) and to Bachelor Gulch and Cordillera. UERWA owns the public water system within this service area, which is operated and maintained by ERWSD through an Operations Agreement. The six member entities of UERWA are: • Town of Avon • Arrowhead Metropolitan District • Beaver Creek Metropolitan District • Berry Creek Metropolitan District • Eagle -Vail Metropolitan District • Edwards Metropolitan District UERWA is governed by a six -person appointed Board of Directors. Each member entity appoints a representative who serves at the pleasure of their board or council, including the Council. Board meetings of ERWSD and of UERWA are open to the public and include opportunities for public comment. More information about ERWSD and UERWA can be found at: www.erwsd.org. Eagle Valley Behavioral Health is a nonprofit 501(c)(3) organization. It is governed by a Board of Directors comprised of community members and behavioral health leaders. The Eagle Valley Behavioral Health board of directors, administration and employees are committed to providing the critical change needed to ensure the vision for a robust, sustainable behavioral health system is realized. For more information about the board and advisory council visit https://www.vailhealthbh.org. Formed in 2002, the EGE Air Alliance is a 501(c)(6) non-profit public -private partnership that provides the funding to support a vibrant local flight service program that ensures that the Eagle County Regional Airport (EGE) remains a vital part of the Eagle County economy. The mission of the EGE Air Alliance is to work with airlines to maintain existing flights and secure new flights to and from the Eagle County Regional Airport. Air services are not guaranteed by any airline, and the EGE Air Alliance is the one organization that works directly with them to maintain and grow new flights and air routes into Eagle County. For more information about the EGE Air Alliance visit: www.egeairalliance.com/ The 1-70 Coalition is a non-profit organization representing 28 local governments and businesses along Colorado's 1-70 mountain corridor. The coalition's mission is to enhance public accessibility and mobility in the 1-70 Central Mountain Corridor and adjoining dependent counties and municipalities through the implementation of joint public and private transportation management efforts. The goals are to: a. Advocate for Improvements on the 1-70 Mountain Corridor b. Active Involvement in Plans and Processes Affecting the 1-70 Mountain Corridor C. Support Transportation Funding Initiatives d. Develop and Implement Travel Demand Management Strategies e. Information Sharing and Outreach For more information about the 1-70 Coalition visit their website at www.i70solutions.org. Northwest Colorado Council of Governments ("NWCCOG") is a voluntary association of county and municipal governments that, individually and collectively, believe working together on a regional basis provides benefits that could not be obtained alone. There is no universal model for regional councils of governments. There are 14 regional governmental associations within Colorado. All are unique because each reflects the needs and desires of its membership. NWCCOG literally becomes what its members want it to be, due to the changing needs and opportunities of the region. The Council, made up of representatives from each member jurisdiction, directs the activities of NWCCOG. The NWCCOG staff is responsible for carrying out the Council's direction. The purpose of the Northwest Colorado Council of Governments is to be responsive to our members' needs and interests by providing guidance and assistance in problem solving, information sharing and partnership building, advocating members' interests and needs with local, state and federal entities, and providing quality services to our membership that are relevant, effective and efficient. For more information about NWCCOG visit their website at www.nwccog.org. SpeakUp ReachOut is a group of individuals who are dedicated to providing suicide prevention, intervention and loss support services to those in need. Services offered include: • suicide prevention/awareness education • community connection events • suicide loss support services. They host quarterly public community meetings on behavioral health and suicide prevention. For more information about SpeakUp ReachOut visit: https://www.speakupreachout.orq/ In 2010, with coordination of the Eagle River Water and Sanitation District and the Eagle River Watershed Council, an Urban Runoff Group ("URG") was formed to address current non -point source issues in the Gore and Eagle drainages and work towards current inventory and assessment of all non -point source issues affecting the watershed. This stakeholder group is working to keep Gore Creek off of the 303(d) list, an action expected to be proposed based on the State Water Quality Control Commission (WQCC) recently adopted aquatic life assessment methodology. As proposed by the WQCC, Gore Creek could be placed on the State's 303(d) list as a result of low aquatic life assessment scores for Gore Creek upstream of the Vail Wastewater Treatment Plant. Vail Valley Partnership ("VVP"), a 501(c)(6) nonprofit organization, has been engaged in the community from the early days of Vail, starting in 1964 as the Vail Resort Association. Vail Valley Partnership is the regional community development organization, dedicated to the economic vitality of the Vail Valley. We support local businesses. We unite key stakeholders. We lead collaborative efforts throughout the community. With a membership of 880+ organizations that spans the Vail Valley and beyond and which represents 80% of the local workforce, Vail Valley Partnership is dedicated to ensuring local business success and fostering regional economic vitality by offering local business tools & resources, promoting the Vail Valley to destination guests, and initiating economic development efforts. The Partnership's efforts in the community include three distinct yet connected roles: • Regional Chamber of Commerce- We work to provide the valley's businesses with networking, educational, and collaborative opportunities with the goal of strengthening our local business community and to advocate for our business community at a regional & state level. • Tourism Development- We work to promote the entire Vail Valley as a year-round destination to potential in -state, out-of-state and international visitors through VisitVailValley.com. We work to attract groups and meetings from all over the country to the Vail Valley. • Economic Growth & Advocacy- We work to ensure the Vail Valley's economic health stays strong for years to come. We work to help existing Vail Valley businesses thrive and recruit new businesses that have the potential to support our local economy. For more information about VVP visit; www.vailvalleypartnership,com. The following information items have been referenced in the previous sections and are suggested for your review: • Appendix 1 — Town Organizational Chart • Appendix 2 — Avon Town Council Simplified Rules of Order • Appendix 3— Code of Ethics • Appendix 4 — Boards & Commissions • Appendix 5 — Resolutions establishing Avon Citizen Committees • Appendix 6 — CIVIL Elected Official's Starter Kit • Appendix 7 — Ethics, Liability and Best Practices Handbook for Elected Officials • Appendix 8 — 2024 Adopted Budget • Appendix 9 — Climate Action Plan • Appendix 10 — Comprehensive Plan • Appendix 11 — Housing Plan