TC Packet 02-04-2025 RETREAT
_____________________________________________________________________________________
MEETING AGENDAS AND PACKETS ARE FOUND AT: WWW.AVON.ORG
MEETING NOTICES ARE POSTED AT AVON TOWN HALL, AVON RECREATION CENTER, AVON ELEMENTARY AND AVON PUBLIC LIBRARY
INDIVIDUALS WITH DISABILITIES ARE ENCOURAGED TO PARTICIPATE IN ALL PUBLIC MEETINGS SPONSORED BY THE TOWN OF AVON. IF YOU REQUIRE A DISABILITY
ACCOMMODATION, PLEASE CONTACT THE TOWN CLERK, MIGUEL JAUREGUI CASANUEVA, AT 970-748-4001 OR MJAUREGUI@AVON.ORG WITH YOUR REQUEST.
REQUESTS SHOULD BE MADE AS SOON AS POSSIBLE BUT NO LATER THAN 72 HOURS BEFORE THE SCHEDULED PUBLIC EVENT.
AVON TOWN COUNCIL MEETING AGENDA
TUESDAY, February 4, 2025 – revised 02/03/25
MEETING BEGINS AT 5:00 PM
In-person at Avon Police Station: 60 Buck Creek Rd, Avon, CO 81620
AVON TOWN COUNCIL PUBLIC MEETING BEGINS AT 5:00 PM
1. CALL TO ORDER AND ROLL CALL
2. APPROVAL OF AGENDA
3. DISCLOSURE OF ANY CONFLICTS OF INTEREST RELATED TO AGENDA ITEMS
4. BUSINESS ITEMS
4.1. Phishing Awareness Training (Chief Information Officer Robert McKenner)
4.2. Active Shooter Training (Chief of Police Greg Daly)
4.3. Annual Overview of Ethics Code, Ex Parte Contact, and Simplified Council Meeting Rules (Town
Attorney Nina Williams)
4.4. Council Manager Staff Relations & Communications (Town Manager Eric Heil)
4.5. Roundtable Discussion of Vision for Avon and High Priorities for the Next Two Years (Town
Manager Eric Heil and Mayor Tamra Underwood)
5. EXECUTIVE SESSION
5.1. For the purpose of purchase of real property pursuant to CRS Section 24-6-402(4)(a); and for the
purpose of determining positions relative to matters that may be subject to negotiation,
developing strategy for negotiations, and/or instructing negotiators under C.R.S. Section 24 -6-
402(4)(e); concerning the following specific matters: State Land Board Property (Town Attorney
Nina Williams and Town Manager Eric Heil) (60 Minutes)
6. ADJOURN
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 May or shall
permit public comments for any action item or work session item and may permit public comment for any
other agenda item, and may limit such public comment to three minut es per individual, which limitation may
be waived or increased by a majority of the quorum present. Article VI. Public Comments, Avon Town
Council Simplified Rules of Order, Adopted by Resolution No. 17-05.
Phishing Awareness Training
February 4, 2025
Phishing Awareness Training
February 4, 2025
Robert Mckenner, Chief Information Officer
Avon’s IT Department
Carlos Molina
IT administrator II
Andrew Bare
Help Desk Technician
Robert Mckenner
Chief Information
Officer
•Suspicious Sender: Email address doesn't match the claimed sender or contains
misspellings.
•Urgency or Threats: Pressure to act quickly or face consequences.
•Requests for Sensitive Info: Asks for passwords, credit card details, or personal data.
•Poor Grammar: Contains spelling errors or unprofessional formatting.
•Generic Greetings: Uses "Dear Customer" instead of your name.
•Suspicious Links/Attachments: Links mismatch when hovered over; unexpected
attachments.
•Unexpected Messages: Claims of prizes, refunds, or invoices you don't recognize.
•Inconsistent Branding: Logos or design don’t match the real organization.
When in doubt, verify the sender and avoid clicking links or sharing
information.
Phishing Awareness Training
February 4, 2025
Common Indicators of Phishing Emails
Do’s:
•Verify Sender: Check email address carefully;
contact the sender using known contact details.
•Hover Over Links: Inspect URLs before
clicking.
•Report Suspicious Emails: Follow your
organization’s phishing-reporting procedures.
•Scan Attachments: Use antivirus software
before opening.
•Stay Alert: Be cautious with urgent or unusual
requests.
Phishing Awareness Training
February 4, 2025
Don’ts:
•Don’t Click Links: Avoid clicking unless verified as safe.
•Don’t Share Info: Never provide passwords or sensitive data via
email.
•Don’t Download Attachments: Skip downloading unless the
email’s legitimacy is confirmed.
•Don’t Trust Email Contact Info: Use official channels to verify
claims.
•Don’t Rush: Phishing relies on urgency—take your time to
confirm.
By staying cautious, you can avoid falling for phishing scams.
How to get IT support:
Ithelpdesk@avon.org
(970) 748 -4050
Help desk hours:
M –F 8AM to 5PM
Phishing Awareness Training
February 4, 2025
ACTIVE SHOOTER DEFINED
•AN INDIVIDUAL ACTIVELY ENGAGED IN KILLING OR ATTEMPTING TO KILL
PEOPLE IN A CONFINED AND POPULATED AREA.
•MOST CASES USE FIREARMS AND THERE IS NOT PATTERN OR METHOD TO THEIR
SELECTION OF VICTIMS.
•UNPREDICTABLE
•EVOLVE QUICKLY
ACTIVE SHOOTER CONTINUED…
•FBI STUDY COMPLETED OVER 20-
YEAR PERIOD (2000-2019)
•333 ACTIVE SHOOTER EVENTS IN
THE U.S.
20-YEAR ACTIVE SHOOTER SUMMARY
ACTIVE SHOOTER EVENTS
•MOST LIKELY TO OCCUR:
•BUSINESSES OPEN TO
PEDESTRIAN TRAFFIC
•OPEN SPACES
•SCHOOLS
PREPARING FOR AN ATTACK
•IF YOU FIND YOURSELF INVOLVED IN AN ACTIVE SHOOTER SCENARIO, WHAT
MATTERS IS SURVIVING.
•JUST LIKE FIRE/TORNADO DRILLS, MAKING A PLAN IN ADVANCE COULD MAKE
ALL THE DIFFERENCE.
•RUN/HIDE/FIGHT
RUN.HIDE.FIGHT
•RUN.HIDE.FIGHT READY HOUSTON
•HTTPS://YOUTU.BE/TEODXKOZRA0
GET OUT (RUN/EVACUATE)
•WHEN AN ATTACK STARTS, IF YOU CAN FIND YOUR WAY OUT SAFELY DO SO.
•STAY CALM–WILL HELP YOU THINK CLEARLY.
•LOOK FOR COVER/CONCEALMENT.
•VISUALIZE YOUR MOVEMENTS IN ADVANCE (EXIT SIGNS).
•HELP OTHERS WITHOUT PUTTING YOURSELF IN DANGER.
SECURE YOUR LOCATION (HIDE)
•IF YOU CAN’T GET SAFELY TO AN EXIT. GET TO A ROOM OR CONFINED AREA YOU
CAN LOCK DOWN. •GET INTO A CORNER/AWAY FROM WINDOWS (DRYWALL WON’T STOP A BULLET).
•STEPS TO TAKE:•LOCK OR BARRICADE THE DOORS. •TURN OFF THE LIGHTS. •MOVE AWAY FROM WINDOWS.•SILENCE YOU CELL PHONE. •REMAIN QUIET.
DEFEND YOURSELF (FIGHT/TAKE ACTION)
•IF YOU CANNOT ESCAPE THE LOCATION AND YOU CANNOT SHELTER IN PLACE,
YOU MAY HAVE TO DEFEND YOURSELF AS A LAST RESORT.
•LOOKED FOR IMPROVISED WEAPONS:
•FIRE EXTINGUISHER
•BROOM
•GLASS BOTTLE
STRIKING AREAS
•LOOK FOR OBJECT’S THAT EFFECT THE SHOOTERS' ABILITY TO:
•SEE
•BREATH
•CONTROL THEIR WEAPON
POLICE ARRIVAL
•MOST ACTIVE SHOOTER SITUATIONS ARE OVER WITHIN 10-15 MINUTES.
•KNOW THAT POLICE WILL ARRIVE WITHIN MINUTES. WHEN LAW ENFORCEMENT
ARRIVE, THEY WILL BE IN A HEIGHTENED STATE OF AWARENESS, LOOKING FOR ANY
AGGRESSIVE MOVEMENTS.•KEEP HANDS VISIBLE•FOLLOW ANY COMMANDS THAT ARE GIVEN•THEIR FIRST RESPONSIBILITY IS TO STOP THE SUSPECT.•MEDICAL PERSONNEL WILL ENTER AS SOON AS THE SUSPECT IS NO LONGER A THREAT OR
KNOWN TO BE IN ANOTHER LOCATION. •APPLY PRESSURE TO BLEEDING
QUESTIONS?
•GDALY@AVON.ORG
•CCOSPER@AVON.ORG
•970-748-4040
RECOMMENDED RESOURCES
•WWW.CISA.GOV
•WWW.DHS.GOV
•WWW.FBI.GOV
QUASI-
JUDICIAL
WORKSHOP
•Nina P. Williams, Town Attorney
•nina@wwfdlaw.com
Quasi-Judicial versus Legislative
•Legislative:Broad application, announcing policy, making law
Amending municipal code, resolutions and proclamations
•Examples: Amending Town Code, Short term rental ordinance; nuisance, building, zoning and land use codes
•Quasi-judicial:Narrow application, does not make policy, applies policy
Applies existing law to a specific set of facts (and specific property)
•Examples: Specific land use approvals, historic preservation decisions, licensing hearings, nuisance abatement
Quasi-Judicial and Ex Parte:
De-mystifying Latin terminology
Quasi-Judicial and Ex Parte:
De-mystifying Latin terminology
Why is this so important?
•“No state shall deprive any person of life, liberty or property without Due Process of law”
(14th Amendment of the United States Constitution)
•So that everyone with an interest in the case, and all members of the decision-making body, hear the same evidence at the same time from the same sources
•To ensure opportunity for fair hearing before unbiased decision makers and that each of the members have the benefit of the same input
•Final decisions can be appealed by anyone adversely affected by decision (with legal standing)
Quasi-Judicial and Ex Parte:
De-mystifying Latin terminology
Impartiality is the standard. May be affected by:
1)Ex parte Communications:defined as communications between the Council/
Commission/Board and one party, outside the presence of the other parties to the case,
or affected individuals.
•Eg) a neighbor comes up to you at Loaded Joe’s to express their concern with a certain development application
2)Pre-judgment or bias: You gave a speech or signed a petition advocating for a specific
land use approval. You posted on Facebook that you will never approve any application
with affordable housing. You have made clear that all your votes will be “anti” developer
3)Conflict of Interest: You (or immediate family) have a personal or private interest in the
matter proposed (pecuniary interest, financial benefit)
•Eg) Your spouse owns a restaurant seeking a liquor license
Quasi-Judicial and Ex Parte:
De-mystifying Latin terminology
How do your cure?
Either:
1)Recusal - or
2)Disclosure (on the record)
Ask yourself:
•Is your ability to decide the case fairly, impartially and based solely on the evidence presented at the hearing affected?
•Does an actual legal conflict exist?
•Does a perceived conflict exist?
•Did you express a pre-judgment bias?
Pro Tip:When in doubt, ask your Town Attorney!
Quasi-Judicial and Ex Parte:
De-mystifying Latin terminology
Suggestions to ensure Impartiality:
•Follow the process set out in Code
- Analyze, review and apply those factors or standards in an objective manner
As opposed to:personal opinions, subjective feelings or individual preferences
•Base your decisions on the facts, law, evidence and testimony in front of you, properly in the record
•Public hearing creates a complete “record”
•You are the fact finder/judge in QJ hearings
•Whatever is in the record is what is properly considered
•Should a decision be appealed, the District Court will review the record to determine a decision
•Therefore, Deliberations are important
•Consider “thinking out loud” during discussion and decision making so that your reasoning is included in the record
Reminder:In quasi-judicial proceedings, you serve as the judge!
Conducting
Public
Hearings
Goal:
•That Councilmembers and public attendees leave the public hearing feeling it was fair and
their views were heard and appreciated.
Some Suggestions:
•Announce the rules, order of hearing, and applicant’s rights at the beginning, then stick to
rules.
•Assign time for public comment from the beginning.
•Suggest speakers do not repeat prior testimony if they can state they agree with an earlier
speaker.
•Public testimony is to be directed to the Council –speakers may not ask questions to staff or
the applicant or the Council (both staff and applicant will have an opportunity at the end of
the testimony to answer questions from the Council)
•Make sure that all attendees at the public hearing know they have the right to speak.
•Give witnesses your full attention.
•Thank all the speakers for appearing.
•Don’t discuss other applications that are in process.
Applicant Rights:
•To make a full presentation
•To present multiple witnesses
•To respond after public comment closes
Public Hearing
Outline
1.Open Public Hearing
2.Town Staff report
3.Applicant presentation
4.Council Questions (if applicable)
5.Public Comment
6.Applicant rebuttal, closing statement (if applicable)
7.Town Staff rebuttal, closing statement (if applicable)
8.Council questions (if applicable)
9.Council Discussion and Deliberation
10.Call for Motion. Final vote/decision/action
Taking Action
“I move to approve/deny …
based upon…" (and with the
following conditions
Importance of “Findings” and
reasons for Approval or Denial
- “[A] record of proceedings before the
Board must contain details of the evidence
presented and proper grounds and
reasons to support its decision.” Murray v.
Board of Adjustment of Larimer County
- Draw conclusions based upon evidence in
the record and made during the hearing
-Decisions should be based upon
objective Code criteria, factors
or requirements (compliance w/ Code)
-Decisions should not be based upon
preferences or personal opinions, fit
Vote on the application/request
before you
Failed motions
- Means no action or decision was made
-If a motion fails, someone on the
”prevailing side” should
immediately move to take the opposite
position
- The Applicant is in charge of the
application, not Council
- If request for rezoning to MFS, that
is what you vote on.
- Members of the body may not
conduct separate research and
attempt to enter it into the hearing
record.
(ex parte and pre-judgment)
- You must take some kind of action
(make a motion and vote on it)
- Cannot refuse to make a motion or
do anything, and move on (applicant
has the right that their application
moves on and is considered)
- Amendments to motions: must be
germane to the main motion; good
way to add one or a series of
conditions
Grounds
for Denial
•Anything in the applicable portions of the
Avon Municipal and Development Code.
Appropriate grounds for denial:
•Failure of developer to volunteer a condition
which could not independently be imposed
by the Town
•Councilmember’s personal belief/opinion
that the project is the wrong use or density,
when the zoning in place allows for it
Inappropriate grounds for denial:
Conditions of
Approval
•Acceptable Conditions:
•Conditions relating to review criteria or mitigating impacts (when a criteria)
•Conditions which support enforcement of the technical requirements of Town
Code
•(eg: drainage easements)
•Corrections to the plat
•Land dedication requirements (eg: ROW; rely on staff recommendation)
•Requirements for maintenance of common elements (eg: to establish HOA)
•Preservation of trees and vegetation
•Redirecting traffic patterns
•Conditions offered voluntarily by the applicant
•Unacceptable Conditions:
•Density restrictions (where inappropriate; where Code doesn’t allow)
•Matters outside scope of the applicable portions of Code
•Conditions which have no Code basis
•Architectural review standards, where none exist
•Technical Requirements:
•Town has professional staff to review drainage plans & developmt design
•Trust your staff!
•Good time to ask staff technical questions: before the hearing
Open Meetings Law (C.R.S. 24-6-402)
Meetings of Council, Boards or
Commissions must be open to the public,
and preceded by a full and timely notice
"Meeting" defined as any kind of gathering,
convened to discuss public business - in
person; by telephone; electronically; or by
other means of communication
•Does not apply to “chance meeting” or social gathering
where discussion of public business is not central
purpose.
"Public business" means a public body's
policy-making functions, discussing or
undertaking a rule, regulation, ordinance,
or formal action.
“If officials use e-mail to discuss (the merits
or substance) of legislation or other public
business among themselves, the e-mail shall
be subject to the requirements of this
section.”pending
What about members texting, or
messaging,during a meeting?
•With each other about issues listed on the agenda
(instead of for all to hear)?
•With staff?
•With developers/applicants/lobbyists/interest group?
Executive Sessions
•Exception within Open Meetings Law
•Policy basis: when public interest best served if certain,
limited matters discussed in private
•OML specifies permitted basis (advice from attorneys;
real estate transactions; negotiations; personnel
matters)
•Purpose: deliberate, not make final decisions
•Process: announcement of lawful purpose; vote of 2/3
present
•Questions?
•Future workshop topics?
Town Code of Ethics
Charter Section 5.5(d)
“Council shall adopt a Town Code of Ethics which shall
set forth ethical standards and standards of conduct for
elected and appointed officials of the Town.”
Avon Municipal Code -Chapter 2.30
”Town Code of Ethics”
Town Code of Ethics
2.30.020 –Declaration of policy
•“The proper operation of democratic government requires that:
•public officers be independent, impartial and responsible to the people;
•that government decisions and policy be made within the proper channels of
the governmental structure;
•that public office not be used for personal gain;
•and that the public have confidence in the integrity of its government.
•The purpose of this code is to establish guidelines for ethical standards of
conduct for all such officers by setting forth those acts or actions that are
incompatible with the best interest of the Town, and by directing disclosure
by such officers of private financial or other interests in matters affecting
the Town.”
Town Code of Ethics
AMC Chapter 2.30
•Prohibits Council Members 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 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.
Town Code of Ethics
AMC Chapter 2.30
•Council members are required to disclose conflicts of interest, 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.
Town Code of Ethics
2.30.170 –Gift Reporting
•Any Town Officer who receives any present, or offer of future, individual gift, favor, loan, service or thing of value in excess of $50, and such gift is offered due to such person's status as a Town Officer, then such officer shall report such gift and the estimated value to the Town Clerk. The Town Clerk shall promptly disclose gifts received, or offer of future gifts, to the Town Council.
•Council shall determine if such gifts constitute a conflict of interest.
•Council members who are the recipient of a gift shall not vote on whether such gift constitutes a conflict of interest unless such gift is offered to Council as a whole or offered to Town generally.
•Gifts which are given by an individual who is a relative or personal friend of the recipient on special occasions shall not be deemed a conflict of interest.
•Gifts which are given without the purpose or intent to influence a Town Officer in connection with an official act or as a reward for an official act performed, and gifts which do not create the appearance of impropriety, shall not be a conflict of interest.
•Gifts which are determined by Council to be a conflict of interest shall be returned.
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
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, e-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 2 of 7
over the meeting for such matter. If the Mayor and Mayor Pro-Tern 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 3 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 of the Town of Avon. 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 4 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 effo1is
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 5 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 fm1her 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.
J. 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 6 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 7 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 po11ion 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 p011ion 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.
Winter Leadership Retreat
February 4, 2025
Council Roles
Council-Manager
Council-Staff
February 4, 2025
Eric Heil, Town Manager
Winter Leadership Retreat
February 4, 2025
COUNCIL
Home Rule Charter defines
Council authority and Town
Manager authority
Council act as a body
We ALL represent Avon!
Winter Leadership Retreat
February 4, 2025
COUNCIL
EACH COUNCIL MEMBER IS EQUAL
Equal Right to Same Information
Equal Right to Express Opinions
Equal Right to Ask Questions
Equal Right to Vote
Equal Right to Participate in Policy before Decision is Made
RESPECT GIVEN = RESPECT RECEIVED
Winter Leadership Retreat
February 4, 2025
COUNCIL –TOWN MANAGER
Town Manager role is to help and support each Council Member to be successful in
your role. This includes:
Complete, Accurate and Timely Information
Explanation of Technical Issues, Process, and Political Considerations
Responsive to Requests and Concerns
Council Members should feel confident in decision making
Always Welcome to Ask Questions
May Request More Time
Town Manager Check-Ins
Winter Leadership Retreat
February 4, 2025
COUNCIL –STAFF
Council Members have the right to ask questions per Avon Charter
Council may direct Town Manager, but Council Members may NOT direct Staff
Questions should be directed to Department Directors, copy Town Manager
Questions that involve significant work may be discussed first and may be
brought to Council before Town Manager directs Staff to perform that work
The Annual Department Goals and Quarterly Reviews have been very efficient
Staff is typically responsive to small matters. More significant matters may
require Council discussion, direction and reprioritization of Dept. Goals
Winter Leadership Retreat
February 4, 2025
Avon’s Letters of Support Policy
At the February 13, 2024 Council meeting, Council discussed the topic of letters of support. Council agreed that the
Town Manager and the Mayor can review the contents of the letter requested and if they determine it is consistent
with policies already adopted by the Town (which may include plan documents, annual Department goals, or
previous direction provided by Council), then Mayor or Manager would sign on behalf of the Town. Copies of the
signed letters are included under written reports every 2-3 months. If there is question about the contents of a letter
requested, it will be put on the agenda to be reviewed by Council as a whole.
There are many times when it is in Avon’s interest to support a policy decision or grant application and the timing is too
quick to include on a Council meeting, so this policy with delegation to Mayor and Manager has been efficient &
helpful.
Winter Leadership Retreat
February 4, 2025
Council Member Priorities and Goals for Next Two Years
Chico:Ruth:
Winter Leadership Retreat
February 4, 2025
Council Member Priorities and Goals for Next Two Years
Lindsay:Rich:
Winter Leadership Retreat
February 4, 2025
Council Member Priorities and Goals for Next Two Years
Kevin:Gary:
Winter Leadership Retreat
February 4, 2025
Council Member Priorities and Goals for Next Two Years
Tamra:
Winter Leadership Retreat
February 4, 2025
Thank you!