10.24.22 PRAB PacketPARKS & RECREATION ADVISORY BOARD
Virtual Meeting
6:00 p.m., October 24, 2022
100 Years of Excellence
Boulder Parks & Recreation
Advisory Board Members 2022
Charles Brock
Elliott Hood
Mary Scott
Anita Speirs
Jason Unger
Sarah van der Star
Pamela Yugar
Mission Statement
BPRD will promote the health and well-
being of the entire Boulder community
by collaboratively providing high- quality
parks, facilities and programs.
Vision Statement
We envision a community where every
member’s health and well- being is
founded on unparalleled parks, facilities
and programs.
Goals of the Master Plan
1. Community Health and Wellness
2. Taking Care of What We Have
3. Financial Sustainability
4. Building Community
5. Youth Engagement
6. Organizational Readiness
AGENDA
All agenda items are approximate
I.APPROVAL OF AGENDA (2 minutes)
II.FUTURE BOARD ITEMS AND TOURS (2 minutes)
III.PUBLIC PARTICIPATION (15-30 minutes)
A.This portion of the meeting is for members of the public to communicate ideas or concerns to the Board
regarding parks and recreation issues for which a public hearing is not scheduled later in the meeting
(this includes consent agenda). The public is encouraged to comment on the need for parks and recreation
programs and facilities as they perceive them. All speakers are limited to three minutes. Depending on the
nature of your matter, you may or may not receive a response from the Board after you deliver your
comments. The Board is always listening to and appreciative of community feedback.
IV.CONSENT AGENDA (5 minutes)
V.Approval of Minutes from September 26, 2022
VI.Parks and Recreation Project Updates
VII.Parks and Recreation Operations Updates
VIII.ITEMS FOR ACTION
IX.MATTERS FOR DISCUSSION/INFORMATION
A.North Boulder Park Alt. Review (45 minutes)
X.MATTERS FROM THE DEPARTMENT
A.Role Overview with City Attorney (20 minutes)
B.Micromobility Pilot Review (20 minutes)
C.Overview of Capital Investment Strategy Update and
Process 2023-2028(20 minutes)
XI.MATTERS FROM BOARD MEMBERS
A.PRAB Retreat Planning (5 minutes)
B.PRAB Matters (verbal) (5 minutes)
XII.NEXT BOARD MEETING
A.Monday, November 7, Retreat, 6:00 pm, Open Space and Mountain Parks Bldg.
B.Monday, November 28, 6:00 pm, Virtual
XIII.ADJOURN
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PARKS AND RECREATION ADVISORY BOARD
FUTURE BOARD ITEMS
UPDATED: October 19, 2022
OCTOBER NOVEMBER DECEMBER JANUARY REGULAR MEETING October 24: Virtual
•North Boulder Park Alt.
Review (d/i) 45min
•Role overview with City
Attorney (md) 20
minutes
•Micromobility Pilot
Review (md) 20min
•Capital Investment
Strategy process and
update (md) 20 min
•PRAB Retreat Final
Prep (mb)
•PRAB Matters (mb) 10
minutes
November 28: TBD
•Reservoir Annual After
Action Review – (d/i)
•Pleasant View Access
update (md)
•Final 2023 Operating
Budget (md)
•PRAB Recruitment
Questions (mb)
•PRAB Retreat Follow
Up – Letter to Council
(mb)
December 12: TBD
•Reservoir Annual After
Action Review – (md)
•Reservoir ANS Update
(md)
•Board and Commission
Inclusion (mb)
•PRAB Matters (mb)
January 23: TBD
•Recreation Center Strategy
process/input (d/i) 30min
•Civic Area Project Overview
(md)
•BPR 2023 Action Initiatives
and Workplan Highlights (md)
•PRAB Matters (mb)STUDY SESSION Nov. 7: PRAB Retreat Department Events and Items of Interest •October 6: 2023
Budget 1st Reading and
Public Hearing (cc)
•October 9: Meet the
Spirits event (e)
•October 20: 2023
Budget 2nd Reading and
Public Hearing (cc)
•October 27-28:
Halloween Drive-in
Movies @ the Rez
•November 24:
Thanksgiving Day
Closure
•December 25:
Christmas Day Closure
•December 31: New
Year’s Eve limited
hours/closures
•New Year’s Day: Recreation
Centers closed, EBCC New
Year’s Kick-off
•
AGENDA SETTING
The PRAB Chair, PRAB Vice Chair and BPR staff set the agenda for the next month on the Thursday directly following the regular PRAB meeting. PRAB
members can submit agenda requests to the Chair and Vice Chair by Wednesday following the PRAB regular meeting for consideration. If time-sensitive
matters arise, PRAB Chair and Vice Chair may amend the agenda as needed.
LEGEND
Action Item (a): A public hearing item to be voted on by the Board (public comment period provided).
Procedural Item: (p): An item requiring procedural attention.
Consent Item (c): An item provided in written form for consent, not discussion by the Board; any consent item may be called up by any Board member for
discussion following the consent agenda.
Discussion/Information Item(d/i): An item likely to be a future action item (or council item) and/or that benefits from an in-depth discussion.
Matters from the Department (md): Items that will be reviewed and discussed during the meeting but not requiring as much in-depth analysis.
Matters from the Board (mb): Items initiated by the Board that will be reviewed and discussed during the meeting but not requiring as much in-depth analysis.
City Council Item (cc)
Other Boards and Commissions (obc)
Community Engagement and/or Events (e)
Holiday/Closure (h/c)
Italics indicate a tentative date or plan.
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TO: Parks and Recreation Advisory Board
FROM: Alison Rhodes, Director of Parks and Recreation
Bryan Beary, Senior Manager, Community Building and Partnerships
Mark Davison, Senior Manager, Planning
Regina Elsner, Senior Manager, Natural Lands
Jackson Hite, Senior Manager, Business Services
Megann Lohman, Senior Manager, Recreation
Stephanie Munro, Senior Manager, Regional Facilities
Dennis Warrington, Senior Manager, Urban Parks
SUBJECT: Consent Agenda
DATE: October 24, 2022
A.Approval of Minutes September 26, 2022
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CITY OF BOULDER
BOULDER, COLORADO
BOARDS AND COMMISSIONS MEETING MINUTES
To listen to the Parks and Recreation Advisory Board meetings in their entirety, please go to the
following link: www.boulderparks-rec.org
Name of Board/Commission: Parks and Recreation Advisory Board
Date of Meeting: September 26, 2022
Contact Information Preparing Summary: Rosa Kougl; kouglr@bouldercolorado.gov
Board Members Present: Mary Scott, Jason Unger, Pam Yugar, Sunny van der Star
Board Members Absent: Charles (Chuck) Brock, Anita Spiers, Elliott Hood
Staff Present: Regina Elsner, Ali Rhodes, Stephanie Munro, Mark Davison, Megann Lohman, Bryan
Beary, Tina Briggs, Alison Eklund
Guests Present: N/A
Type of Meeting: Regular
Agenda Item 1: Call to Order
The meeting was called to order at 6 p.m. A quorum was present for the conduct of business. Motion
to approve agenda. First motion by Scott, second by Unger. The motion passed 4-0.
Agenda Item 2: Future Board Items:
Rhodes, Director reviewed upcoming agenda items and tours.
•No questions or comments from the PRAB
Agenda Item 3: Public participation:
(1)Tom Lindahl; President of the Local Military Officers Association Chapter, proposing an upgrade
to Bill Bauer Park. Would like to put in an interpretive display, who was Bill Bauer and why is the park
named after him. The chapter has proposed a plaque and associated landscaping. The chapter is
prepared to fund the entire effort and would welcome the PRAB’s advice on how to solicit the project.
(2)Larry McKeogh; Boulder resident for 33 years. Sharing the season’s open water swims and
activities and to thank the city staff parks and Director Rhodes as well as reservoir manager, Stacey
Cole, for enabling aquatic activities to return this year.
(3)Patrick O’Rourke; wanted to make sure that the Civic Area Plan includes the potential of a historic
district.
(4)Kathryn Barth: Meet the Spirits invitation to all for October 9 and thank you to the community
group and staff that support this event.
(5)Lynn Segal: Would like to have a public hearing regarding the band shell, would like a “good
public hearing” so that people can speak up as to what they find beneficial.
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Agenda Item 4: Consent Agenda
A.Approval of Minutes from August 22 Study Session
Motion to approve the minutes from the August 22 Regular PRAB meeting. Motion by Unger.
Second by van der Star. The motion passed 4-0.
B, C, D. Updates from the Director, Project Updates, Operations & Development
•PRAB had the following questions or comments to Director Rhodes:
•Yugar would like an update on the South Boulder Rec Center. Waiting on paint for the gym
floor. Once the pool work is done, we'll have an opportunity to finish the the walls in the
previous racquetball court at the South Wall Rock Center. This will become a ninja obstacle
course studio.
•Yugar thanked Rhodes for the Cool Boulder update
E.Matters from the Department
•Briggs updated Historic Places Plan Project as the guiding document for proactive stewardship
for the next 10-20 years of 12 historical and cultural assets. Briggs shared the historic
resources, timeline, and next steps with a $190k grant all managed by Parks & Rec. Rhodes
added that we make sure that, in line with any plans, for this one specifically, we consider how
we best take care of these valuable, wonderful historic resources.
•Rhodes talked about the Recreation Recovery Plan, using a chart, reminding, and sharing with
the board how we are doing this year against last year. We are doing better even considering
being impacted by the staffing shortage. Scott asked if we are “hitting up” the senior
community. Lohman replied that older adults are being added to our marketing pieces and
flyers and added that all demographics are being highlighted as opposed to just targeting one
demographic.
•Unger asked about the Downtown Boulder Planning. Rhodes replied that next month the board
will see a preview of the 3-year work for capital investment on this project.
Agenda Item 6: Matters from the Board Members
A.PRAB Meeting Schedule. No comment.
B. PRAB Retreat Planning
PRAB elected Unger and Hood to lead the agenda setting for the retreat. The draft agenda outlines
several areas of discussion to help the board understand and potentially augment its role in community
issues. The board agreed it would be helpful to have a presentation by a city attorney at the October
meeting, with the content providing an overview of the PRAB’s role and limitations as outlined in the
charter.
C.PRAB Matters
PRAB had the following questions/comments:
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•Several members attended Studio Arts Boulder’s Chili Contest. Enjoyed the community
experience and contest. A board member suggested that Studio Arts Boulder bring in more
ethnicities to the contest.
Agenda Item 7: Next Board Meeting
Next Board meeting: Monday, October 24, 6:00 p.m. (Virtual)
Agenda Item 8: Adjourn
Motion to adjourn. Motion by van der Star. Second by Scott. The meeting was adjourned at 7:24p.m.
Approved by: Attested:
___________________ _____________________
Pamela Yugar Rosa Kougl
Board Members BPR Staff
Date: ______________ Date: _________________
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B.Parks and Recreation Development Update
The following information is intended to provide the PRAB with relevant updates on specific projects as they reach major
milestones. This section is not all inclusive of all current projects and only illustrates major project updates. For a complete list
of all current projects and details, please visit www.BoulderParkNews.org.
Planning and Design
The following projects are currently in the planning and design process that involves research, alternatives analysis, public
involvement and development of planning documents and design plans to guide decision making and future capital
improvements.
•Columbia Cemetery:
o Headstone Preservation - In September and October, Atlas Preservation restored over
75 headstones at Columbia Cemetery. The work involved re-setting fallen headstones,
raising and leveling pediments, and reattaching damaged pieces of the
monuments. BPR’s Historic and Cultural Asset Manager worked closely with
Atlas Preservation to document the work performed and select sites for future
conservation efforts.
o Meet the Spirits: On October 9, Parks
and Recreation partnered with Historic
Boulder to host the first Meet the Spirits
event at Columbia Cemetery in four
years. Over 720 tickets were sold, raising
$12,000 for Historic Boulder and the
PLAY Foundation. Meet the Spirits has
proven to be a great way to engage the
community with the unique history of
Boulder’s landmark cemetery.
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o Burial Index: After years of research, data
collection, and beta testing, the Columbia
Cemetery Burial Index and Interactive Map
will be made accessible to the public on the
BPR website. The Index allows users to
search for information on individuals
buried in the cemetery based on name or
location and will be updated as new
information becomes available.
C.Operations Update
•Recreation Facilities and Aquatics
North Boulder Recreation Center (NBRC): During the annual maintenance shutdown in August, staff discovered
a leak in the NBRC pump room. Due to the nature and location of the leak, a portion of the deck at NBRC was
closed while the Facilities Department and an outside contractor worked to address the leak with minimal operating
impacts. The leak is now addressed with only a 2-3 day closure of the facility. The contractor will return in
November to grind down the recently poured concrete and apply an epoxy finish to match the existing deck
material. No further impacts to the lap pool availability are expected for this work.
During the recent summer pool season, the aquatics industry was impacted by a CO2 shortage. CO2 is used to aid
in balancing the chemical composition of pools. This shortage caused the closure of the NBRC lap and leisure pools
for 10 total days over the summer season. To avoid this type of closure in the future, staff are procuring a secondary
system utilizing acid to be used in the event of future CO2 shortages. This small investment will help to ensure
consistent operations at the NBRC into the future.
South Boulder Recreation Center (SBRC):
The SBRC lap pool leak has been addressed and the final work to clean and reopen the space was completed
in mid-October. The pool is scheduled to reopen the week of October 17 with limited operating hours. Due
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to the national lifeguard shortage, BPR continues to prioritize pool availability based upon accessibility,
amenities, and usage. As the SBRC lap pool only has six lanes and less modern facilities that limit
accessibility, operations with limited staff are focused on NBRC and EBCC. Some lap lane space will be
made available to the public in the evenings after 6pm, and both lap and family swim times will be made
available on Sundays. The SBRC pool largely supports youth and teen swimming through Fairview Swim
Teams, youth water polo, and youth synchronized swimming programs, the primary afterschool and evening
users of the facility.
The gym work is also largely complete at SBRC and was opened to the public at the beginning of October.
In inspecting the work, staff discovered an error with the placement of the full-court basketball lines. The
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contractor returned to begin fixing the lines on October 16 and will complete it later that same week. Staff
will communicate further as repair details are finalized.
Pools Special Initiative Grant Update: Staff implemented recruitment and retention efforts for pool-based aquatic
employees as part of the state’s Pools Special Initiative, which was intended to increase the availability of safe
access to pools over the summer months. The grant measurement period ended September 30, 2022, and reported
outcomes on all measures are included below.
The Work to Win raffle encouraged team members to work additional hours each week, with raffle tickets
given out for those working 20 and 30 hours or more a week. The goal was to increase the average hours
worked by existing staff members. Over the measurement period, the average hours worked by our lifeguard
staff increased 88% from the spring to the summer season. A total of 45 staff received gift cards for a total
of $4,500 spent. Based on the metrics tracked and quantitative feedback from staff, this was the greatest
incentive to pick up additional hours over the course of the summer and created a level of excitement and
fun with the job.
Stay Bonuses allowed staff who remained employed with BPR through the entire summer season and
worked at least one full shift a week to be eligible for an extra $1 per hour on every hour worked June
through September 4. A total of 115 staff received an end-of-season bonus for 11,191 hours worked. The
total amount spent was $13,259.17 due to payroll benefits applied to these bonuses. Quantitative feedback
indicates that this end-of-season retention bonus was influential in staff continuing to work for BPR for the
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duration of the entire season. These 115 staff accounted for 61% of all hours worked over the course of the
grant period.
The More the Merrier referral program offered staff who referred a new employee and the new employee
$100 each, awarded once the new employee worked 50 total hours. Employees could refer an unlimited
number of new staff if they met all other requirements. This program also awarded existing department staff
in other areas the same $100 bonus if they transfer into an aquatics position at the end of their current
seasonal employment. This incentive was not successful, and no recruitment bonuses were awarded. Staff
believes that the timing of the grant award was not conducive to recruitment efforts of this type and will
further explore both recruitment and retention efforts through the winter and spring seasons. It is also
possible that $100 incentive is not the appropriate amount.
An overview of some reported grant measures and highlights is included in table 1 below.
Table 1: Staffing Metrics Tracking 2022 Summer Grant Period vs. 14 weeks prior and Summer 2021
2022 Summer Grant
Period
(May 30 – September 4)*
2022 Spring
(14 weeks preceding Grant)
(February 21 – May 29)*
Similar 2021 Period to Grant
(May 31 – September 5)*
YoY Change
Summer 2021 to 2022
Spring to Summer
2022 Change
Total # of Aquatics
Staff (min)
65 41 29 +124%+59%
Total # of Aquatics
Staff (max)
112 73 76 +47%+53%
Total Hours Worked 18,272.25 4,926.50 15,432.75 +18%+271%
Average Hours
Worked / Employee
25.8 / pay period 13.7 / pay period 30.2 / pay period -15%+88%
* Aligned to pay periods for consistency in reporting
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AGENDA ITEM VII-A PAGE 1
C I T Y O F B O U L D E R
PARKS AND RECREATION ADVISORY BOARD AGENDA ITEM
MEETING DATE: October 24, 2022
AGENDA TITLE: North Boulder Park Site Plan: Concept Plan Alternatives for the
Play Areas, Fitness, Shelter, Bathrooms and Adjacent Gathering Areas
PRESENTERS:
Alison Rhodes, Director, Parks and Recreation Department
Mark Davison, Planning Senior Manager, Parks and Recreation Department
Doug Godfrey, Senior Landscape Architect
EXECUTIVE SUMMARY:
The purpose of this memo is to provide PRAB with information and gather input
regarding the development of a site plan for North Boulder Park covering the Play Areas,
Fitness Equipment, Shelter, Bathrooms and Adjacent Gathering Areas. At the October 24
meeting, staff will present and seek input on two concept plan alternatives. This input
from PRAB will inform the final design development and construction documents that
will lead to construction within the boundary of the site plan.
Initially, the playground and shelter were identified and approved in the department’s
Capital Improvement Program (CIP). The playground at North Boulder Park had been
identified by BPR staff as needing renovation with the equipment in the playground
surpassing its useful lifecycle and impacted significantly by vandalism. In addition, there
is a need to update the existing shelter, converting the existing seasonal restroom into
year-round, universal facilities.
Based on feedback received through an on-line survey, two in-person public meetings,
and PRAB feedback, staff recognized the need to explore the spaces adjacent to the play
area and shelter. In addition, with the recent approval of the department’s updated Master
Plan and on-going work associated with the Alpine-Balsam Area Plan, there is a need to
expand the project beyond the playground and shelter areas. For this reason, the site plan
with the two alternate concepts includes improving gathering spaces and amenities
associated with the shelter, expanding the play areas to include nature play activities and
adding teen-friendly spaces, and refurbishing the outdoor fitness areas.
BACKGROUND:
The department’s CIP allows for yearly repairs and renovations of existing assets in
BPR’s parks and is focused on those that are reaching the end of their lifecycle. This
funding supports investment in major maintenance, enhancement, replacement, and new
assets throughout the system to meet the goals outlined within the BPR Master Plan and
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AGENDA ITEM VII-A PAGE 2
Capital Investment Strategy. In 2023, the site plan for North Boulder Park will refurbish
and replace existing assets as well as adding new assets to meet community needs.
The original design for the North Boulder Park playground dates to 1968. The 1968
playground design consisted of a series of playground ‘bays’ that contained wood
climbing structures, open turf play areas, and multiple planting beds around the shelter.
The existing shelter dates to the mid-1950s and included restrooms, an enclosed
recreation area, and storage rooms. The current playground equipment is a post-and-
platform style made mostly of metal and plastic and accommodates 2 to 5 and 5 to 12 age
ranges. These structures allow for climbing, sliding, balance, other fine motor skills, and
interaction between playground users. The playground also has several independent play
structures such as swings for toddlers and older users, ring swings, and sand diggers. The
playground surfacing is a pea gravel material. The equipment was installed in the mid-
1990s. Several pieces of the playground equipment were also recently vandalized,
resulting in the need to close or remove the structures. Because of the age of the
equipment, replacement parts are no longer available.
The most recent and significant renovations to the North Boulder Park playground area
occurred in 2014 and 2018. In 2014, work was completed at the playground to address
critical deficiencies and, where possible, provide amenities identified by the community.
Completing this work was made possible by the passage of the 2011 Capital
Improvement Bond (CIB) which allowed the department to address critical deferred
maintenance items. The 2014 work included significant concrete repair work around the
existing shelter and to adjacent sidewalks and the addition of a poured-in-place surfacing
to provide better access to play structures. This work allowed the department to address
and come into compliance with then new updates to the Americans with Disabilities Act
(ADA).
The 2014 renovation work did allow the department to provide other amenities for the
community that were identified through a public engagement process. The renovation
project included the removal and replacement of fitness equipment that was installed in
1984. A new fitness area was provided to the south of the playground. A new basketball
court and ping pong table were also installed at this time. To address maintenance issues,
individual planting beds were consolidated or removed as appropriate. During the
planning for the 2014 renovation project, staff determined that the 1990 play equipment,
while then approaching the end of its lifespan, did not need immediate attention and
could be replaced at a later point as part of the department’s CIP.
In 2018, a bike tot-track was installed on the north-east corner of the playground. This
installation was possible as part of funding for an art sculpture that was not able to be
realized. This installation is meant to acknowledge the history North Boulder Park has
played in Boulder biking history such as hosting the Red Zinger and Coors Classic bike
races.
Site Plan for North Boulder Park: The playground was originally scheduled to be
replaced in 2022. The project was delayed due to staff capacity and the need to complete
projects ahead of North Boulder Park that were also behind schedule. The site plan will
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AGENDA ITEM VII-A PAGE 3
provide opportunities users of all ages to play, interact, and learn alongside their peers.
While design will be specific to the North Boulder Park, standard equipment generally
includes:
•Accessible equipment that can be used by children ages 2-5 and 5-12.
•Equipment that can enjoyed by children of all physical and mental abilities.
•A variety of equipment that focuses on developing social and motor skills for
different ages.
•Swings for 2-5 and 5+ age groups, sand play, and slides.
•Shade: incorporated into play equipment, shelters, or trees.
•A teen area for ages 13 to 19
•Relocating and retention/replacement of the existing fitness equipment and
providing a gathering area for fitness programs
•The department is also coordinating with the city’s Facilities Department to
renovate and improve the existing shelter including gathering space in front with
excellent views of the Flatirons
•The existing restrooms will be converted to year-round, unisex, ADA compliant
facilities.
•Making the current restrooms year-round will allow the department to remove the
existing port-o-let that is used when the current restrooms are winterized or
closed.
ANALYSIS:
Staff started the planning process for the project in early 2022. While the primary focus
of the project is the removal and replacement of existing outdated equipment and
amenities, the August 2022 approval of the updated department master plan prompted
staff to ensure that any redesign considers and responds to the goals and initiatives
adopted in the master plan update.
Alpine-Balsam Area Plan Implementation: North Boulder Park is within the boundary for
the Alpine-Balsam Area Plan. As part of the development of the area plan, staff
determined that the potential increased population associated with new population could
be accommodated within the Level of Service (LOS) for this park level. Given the
already high amount of use within the park, providing additional amenities is
recommended to serve the increase in population in this area.
The Alpine-Balsam site will provide
new affordable and market-rate homes
in a range of housing types and will be
the future location of the Western City
Campus (identified in the Council-
approved Facilities Master Plan) to
serve customers and house municipal
functions. The city is working
collaboratively with Boulder Housing
Partners (BHP) as co-primary
developers of the site. Currently, flood Plan Boundary, Alpine-Balsam Area Plan
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AGENDA ITEM VII-A PAGE 4
mitigation design is underway and is expected to be complete by the end of 2022.
Deconstruction of the former hospital is also underway and is expected to be complete
early 2023
2022 Parks and Recreation Master Plan Update: The 2022 Parks and Recreation
Department Master Plan Update affirms 6 key themes with associated goals and
initiatives that guide the work for the department. The following key themes and goals
informed the development of the concept alternatives for the North Boulder Park project.
•Community Health and Wellness
-Goal 2: Ensure BPR Services and Assets Support the Total Physical, Mental,
and Social Well-Being of the Community
•Taking Care of What We Have
-Goal 1: Provide Well-Maintained and Multi-Use Parks and Recreation
Facilities
-Goal 2: Ensure BPR’s Asset Management Program (AMP) is Consistently and
Clearly Implemented
•Youth Engagement and Activity
-Goal 1: Enhance the Physical and Mental Health of Teens
These themes and goals helped guide the design concepts with the incorporation of teen-
friendly spaces for active and passive recreation, a focus on natural elements and nature
play opportunities, and including additional amenities such as water play features.
Community Engagement and Feedback: Public engagement for the design of the
playground area began in July of 2022. The engagement was a two-part process to solicit
feedback from the community. The first part of engagement consisted of an on-line
questionnaire to gauge playground users’ preferences in playground themes, styles, and
colors. The on-line survey was supplemented by two, in-person public meetings at North
Boulder Park. The in-person meetings provided staff the opportunity to listen and talk to
park and playground and other users for the area adjacent to the shelter first-hand to hear
about their experiences. Notification for the survey and public meetings were sent to
community members within a ½ mile of the park, consistent with notifications for a
community level park. Staff spent August and September 2022 analyzing the feedback to
find consistent themes and trends that would inform decisions. Staff then used this
information to develop two conceptual plan alternatives. These concept alternatives
integrated community feedback and staff expertise, taking a comprehensive look at the
area.
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AGENDA ITEM VII-A PAGE 5
The in-person meetings were held at North
Boulder Park on July 29 and 30, 2022.
The Friday, July 29, 2022, meeting was from
5pm – 7pm. Approximately 50 people
stopped by to talk with staff. The Saturday,
July 30 meeting was from 9am – 11 am.
Approximately 30 people stopped by. 46
people, kids, filled out our kid friendly
questionnaires, (see Attachments A and B),
over this two-day period. The in-person
meetings provided staff the opportunity to
listen and talk to park users first-hand to hear
about their experiences.
The on-line questionnaire, see Attachment C, was made up of a series of questions
where respondents were asked to select their or their playground user’s preferences in
themes, styles, and materiality. It also contained open ended questions where respondents
could provide their own feedback about the project and what they would like to see in the
playground replacement. The informal questionnaire was open to the community from
July 20, 2022 through August 4, 2022. 182 complete responses were received from the
questionnaire. Results from the questionnaire and the open-ended comments can be found
in Attachment D.
The information that was received from both the questionnaire and in-person meetings
can be summarized, as follows:
•Natural playground elements or natural materials received a high-level of interest.
•Natural materials are preferred for the play environment.
•Water-play opportunities received a lot of positive feedback.
•Moving and manipulating the play environment received a lot of interest.
•Opportunities for climbing ranked very high
with playground users.
•‘Regular’ swings are a must, however, there
needs to be more and a wider variety of swing
types.
•There was a high level of interest in tall slides.
•Shade is a critical component of a new playground.
•More variety in 3-5 play equipment is needed as 3–5-year-olds outgrow 2-5
equipment and prematurely try and use 5-12 equipment.
•Remove pea gravel as a playground surfacing.
As part of the community outreach process, staff also solicited feedback on the current
condition and use of the fitness equipment located adjacent to the playground. Staff heard
from the community that:
•Fitness equipment is a safety concern for kids and should be removed.
•Stationary fitness equipment is used, but movable equipment is not well used.
•Fitness equipment (even movable) should be better located away from
playground.
North Boulder Park In-Person Meeting
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AGENDA ITEM VII-A PAGE 6
This feedback is also consistent with what staff has heard from BPR operations staff and
what we have heard from the PRAB about the fitness equipment at the park. Staff spent
August and September 2022 analyzing the feedback that was received from the on-line
questionnaire and in-person meetings. Generally, there were consistent findings between
the questionnaire results, questionnaire comments, and feedback received at the in-person
meetings. This information and feedback were used in the development of the two
conceptual design alternatives.
Youth Engagement and Activity: One of the key themes of the approved 2022 Parks and
Recreation Master Plan Update is Youth Engagement and Activity. The plan’s theme
specifically addresses the vital role BPR plays in providing the community’s youth direct
experiences with nature and experiential learning opportunities. For the Youth
Engagement and Activity theme, two policies provide guidance on the approach in
development of the concept alternatives:
Policy 1: BPR shall enhance the health, safety, resilience and overall
development of Boulder’s youth through parks, facilities and services.
Policy 3: When considering capital improvements, BPR staff shall use all
data and metrics available to prioritize amenities and features that
encourage youth activity, participation, and healthy lifestyles such as
nature-based play spaces and innovative teen areas for children and youth
in parks and public spaces managed by BPR.
The renovation project at North Boulder Park is an opportunity to advance these policies.
Both conceptual alternatives include components of nature-based play. Opportunities for
interaction with nature and natural elements received a high level of support from the
community. This feedback is consistent with the research, findings and feedback that
went into the development of the master plan update. The concept alternatives for North
Boulder Park also offer opportunities to include passive and active amenities and features
for teens including age relevant play equipment, interactive swings, lighting, and sound.
Site Plan: Two Concept Plan Alternatives
Two concept plan alternatives reflecting the feedback from the community, PRAB, and
staff have been developed for the North Boulder Park Site Plan. The alternatives consist
of active play areas and areas for passive recreation and gathering. The active play areas
in both plans contain the playground equipment for 2 to 5 and 5 to 12 age ranges, and
water play opportunities. The passive spaces in both alternatives are comprised of the
shelter, bermed areas, and open turf. Teen-friendly features and amenities are also
incorporated into both active and passive recreation areas. The fitness equipment has
been relocated, updated and includes adjacent space that provide opportunities for health
and wellness programs. The proposed active and passive space areas in each alternative
are designed to minimize impacts to the existing park site, including mature trees, to the
greatest extent possible.
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AGENDA ITEM VII-A PAGE 7
Active Play Areas, 2 to 5 and 5 to 12 Playground: The area for the proposed 2 to 5 and 5
to 12 playground primarily falls within the footprint of the existing playground. The
playground area in both alternatives has been enlarged slightly to accommodate the space
required for the desired play equipment, while also minimizing impacts to existing trees.
Both playgrounds are separated to encourage playground users to use age-appropriate
equipment. Thought has also been given to also ensure that all areas of the playground
are visible and accessible for parents and caregivers.
Generally, the playground equipment for both age ranges includes opportunities for
climbing, sliding, balancing, bouncing, and interacting with other playground users as is
best practice in playground design. Both alternatives also provide spaces for sand play, a
free-materials area, and toddler swings.
The playground equipment in Concept Alternative A, is proposed as more traditional
plastic and metal while Alternative B consists primarily of wood. Feedback from the
community indicate a preference for playground equipment made of more natural
materials. Both concept alternatives provide for natural play opportunities including
interaction with sand, water, movable wood elements, and natural topography.
Active Play, Water Features: The active play area in both alternatives also include water
play features. Opportunities for such features received a high level of interest in the on-
line surveys and at the in-person meetings. A Growing Up Boulder report, “Growing Up
Boulder, Parks and Recreation Master Plan Update: Summary of Findings, May 2021”
found that water play opportunities such as water jets, slides, and diving platforms,
ranked highly across age ranges from 2 through 18.
Staff recognizes the importance of water conservation and that the use of water in any
application must be done so in a way that minimizes the amount of water consumed
while still providing an experience desired by playground users. In the proposed concept
alternatives, misters or ground jets are considered. These types of features require low
amounts of water and include ‘smart’ controls that limit the duration of use.
Active Play, Fitness: Feedback from the community and PRAB indicated that while some
components of the existing fitness equipment at North Boulder Park are utilized by park
users, overall, the equipment poses a safety concern, and that most of the equipment
should be removed. Because the equipment is close to the playground, younger
playground users gravitate to this equipment and have been injured by moving parts or on
the concrete surfacing.
The feedback also showed there is some equipment that is used and should be moved or
replaced. This included the non-moving, stationary equipment such as the pull-up bars.
This equipment should be replaced in a different location of the park.
The adult and teen-friendly spaces focus on providing multi-use recreation equipment
that is appropriate for each user group. In addition to being available and open to the
public for use, the proposed fitness equipment will allow recreation staff to offer
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AGENDA ITEM VII-A PAGE 8
programmed, outdoor recreation opportunities. The demand for this type of outdoor
recreation was highlighted by the community in the 2022 master plan update.
In Concept Alternative A, the proposed fitness equipment is located in the area that is
currently the open turf area north of the existing basketball court. Prior to the 2014
renovation, this open turf area was where fitness equipment for people experiencing
disability and the basketball court were located. The equipment was removed due to its
age and was replaced with the equipment that is currently installed adjacent to the
existing playground.
The proposed new fitness equipment in this alternative is a parkour / Ninja Warrior style,
meant to appeal to both teens, young adults and adults.
In Concept Alternative B, the fitness equipment
is located to the immediate north of the existing
shelter. The type of fitness equipment that is
proposed in this alternative is considered
‘functional fitness’ equipment. This type of
equipment includes more stationary components
that can be used by more than one individual at a
time.
Passive Recreation Space, Shelter: In both concept plan alternatives, the existing shelter
at North Boulder Park will undergo renovations as part of the project. The renovation will
consist or roof and gutter repairs (completed in 2022) and turning the existing seasonal
restrooms into year-round, universal facilities. Improvements also include creating an
improved gathering area in front of the shelter with views out to the Flatirons and easier
access for the users of the ball diamond fields. To accomplish this an enlarged patio space
with shade cover is proposed for the south side of the shelter.
Passive Recreation Space, Berms and Open Turf: Berms, or mounds, and open-turf areas
provide opportunities for unprogrammed play for park users of all ages such as tag,
frisbee, soccer, football, etc. In both concept plan alternatives, large areas of open turf
around the playground remain untouched. In some areas of the plan turf berms are
proposed. Berms in the concept alternatives serve a dual purpose. First, they provide an
opportunity to increase natural play opportunities. Berms can be used for rolling,
sledding, and providing an added challenge in winter sports such as Nordic skiing that
Fitness Equipment Prior to 2014 Renovation Proposed Parkour Fitness Equipment
Functional Fitness Equipment
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AGENDA ITEM VII-A PAGE 9
occurs within North Boulder Park. At North Boulder Park, berming is also being
considered to help minimize the amount of stormwater that migrates across the northern
portion of the park in moderate and heavy rain events. In past rain events, stormwater
coming down Dellwood Ave. has created maintenance issues by moving playground
surfacing material out of the playground, Further work will be completed to better
understand the stormwater issues in this area and how they might be mitigated.
Teen Friendly Spaces: Prioritizing amenities and features that encourage youth activity,
participation, and healthy lifestyles through innovative teen areas in parks and public
spaces managed by BPR is a policy of the Youth Engagement and Activity theme in the
master plan. The concept alternatives for North Boulder Park seek to provide sanctioned,
active and passive recreation opportunities for teens in the community. These spaces are
important to offer teens spaces to socialize and interact with peers or find spaces to relax
and think on their own. In the concept plans teen-friendly spaces are envisioned in both
active and passive areas. While the concept alternatives provide examples of what some
teen-friendly spaces and amenities could look like, more community outreach with teens
and other park users will occur to respond to this underserved need as we move into the
design development phase of the project.
QUESTIONS for the PRAB:
Active Play Areas, 2 to 5 and 5 to 12 Playground
•Does the PRAB have a preference or comments on the type and or style of
playground equipment that should be included in the playground replacement?
Active Play, Fitness
•Does the PRAB have a preferred location of the fitness equipment, as shown in
Concept Alternative A or B?
•Does the PRAB have a preference for the type of fitness equipment?
Teen-Friendly Spaces
•Does the PRAB have comments or questions about providing teen-friendly spaces
within the active and passive areas of the park?
NEXT STEPS:
•November 2022: Move to completion of Design Development site plan based on
PRAB feedback.
•Q1 2023: Develop construction documents and move to construction phase
•Q4 2023: Celebrate completion of construction and updated park spaces with the
community
Attachments:
Attachments A and B: Friday and Saturday Kid-Friendly Questionnaire Feedback
Attachment C: Blank On-Line Questionnaire
Attachment D: Questionnaire Results and Comments
Attachment E: Site Plan Alternative A
Attachment F: Site Plan Alternative B
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Attachment A: Friday and Saturday Kid-Friendly Questionnaire Feedback
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Report for North Boulder Playground
Replacement 2022
Completion Rate:79.8%
Complete 182
Partial 46
Totals: 228
Response Counts
1
Attachment D: Questionnaire Results and Comments
117
2. Would you like to receive email updates from Boulder Parks and
Recreation? Check all that apply.PercentProject Updates for North Boulder Playground
Replacement
Monthly BPR Newsletter
0
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100
Value Percent Responses
Project Updates for North Boulder Playground Replacement 89.6%155
Monthly BPR Newsletter 43.4%75
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118
3. Which look or playground style is more exciting for you and your
playground user? Select your favorite from the pictures below.
57% Wood and Stone (minimal
plastic and metal)
57% Wood and Stone (minimal
plastic and metal)
43% Faux Wood and Stone (plastic
and metal designed to look like
natural elements)
43% Faux Wood and Stone (plastic
and metal designed to look like
natural elements)
Value Percent Responses
Wood and Stone (minimal plastic and metal)56.9%120
Faux Wood and Stone (plastic and metal designed to look like
natural elements)
43.1%91
Totals: 211
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119
4. Please select the type of playground equipment that you and your
playground user(s) think would be best suited for North Boulder Park.
23% Tall Towers and Pods23% Tall Towers and Pods
48% Climbing Structures48% Climbing Structures
29% Platforms29% Platforms
Value Percent Responses
Tall Towers and Pods 22.7%42
Climbing Structures 48.1%89
Platforms 29.2%54
Totals: 185
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120
5. Please choose the top 3 types of other playground equipment that
you and your playground user(s) think would be best suited for North
Boulder Park.
56% In-ground Trampoline56% In-ground Trampoline
54% Group Swings54% Group Swings
65% Natural Play Opportunities65% Natural Play Opportunities
45% Group Spinners45% Group Spinners
33% Natural Seating Areas33% Natural Seating Areas
26% Hammock Swing26% Hammock Swing
Value Percent Responses
In-ground Trampoline 55.7%102
Group Swings 53.6%98
Natural Play Opportunities 64.5%118
Group Spinners 44.8%82
Natural Seating Areas 33.3%61
Hammock Swing 26.2%48
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ResponseID Response
13 A very tall slide at the 5-12 year old equipment (similar to Melody Park and
Chautauqua Park) would be appreciated by all. Even though metal gets hot, I
am wondering if metal slides could be considered? This is based on the past
two 4th of July celebrations where high school kids were lighting fireworks
on the plastic slides. A good example of a nice metal slide would be the wide
one at the Main Library. Sensory items would be great too such as the
chimes that Goric makes: https://goric.com/all-products/dance-chimes/
Overall, the images presented are great and I tend to believe that the wood
play equipment that is similar to the Main Library would be used the most by
the kids (where they have to climb up to the platform and cross a net to get
to the slide). If there is a way to make the 2-5 year old equipment more
exciting or utilize sensory or a rock climbing structure for this equipment, it
will hopefully be better utilized than the current equipment. Thanks for the
opportunity to give input!
16 Including nature in the playground. I also liked a playground in Ridgway, CO
called Hartwell Park that incorporates music with multiple creative
xylophones for kids to play with. I think there were 6 stations set-up.
20 Would love to have a splash pad at our park
21 There are some amazing parks in Amasterdam that are huge climbing play
structures. They have levels for younger kids but also level up for older kids
(and even adults can play too). They are made mostly of wood/metal and lots
of rope and are great exercise as well as fun play.
22 I have never seen an in ground trampoline at a public park and think that
would be awesome if it doesn't frequently break. Zip lines popular. Also, the
OLD Scott Carpenter Playground provided a place where kids of all ages
could play with the platforms/bridge/slides while having the rocket for
climbing—we miss that playground as the new one does not have a similar
space. In ground toy excavators are also very popular with the kids
24 Please place any swings, especially baby swings east to west, instead of
north to south, so kids can avoid facing the sun.
6. Please describe your favorite image (s) from the playground
equipment pictured above. What excites you most about that
equipment? Is there any other equipment you would like to see included
at North Boulder Park?Hint: You can click the "Back" button below to
look at all the photos again, but do not use the back button in your web
browser as it causes your answers to be lost.
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122
25 Variety of installations is important. So too is enough space on the platforms
and climbing structures. This park is always incredibly packed with children
so there needs to be plenty of space for them all to play. I would also
recommend putting the younger structure separate from the older area to
avoid the younger kids getting bowled over by the games of tag etc.
26 I think that the natural play opportunity is exciting because it is inviting and
open-ended. Other structures are narrowed to one or two activities, whereas
people can use their imagination when interacting with natural play spaces.
It is most appealing visually as well. I'm concerned about the safety of built
in trampoline and group swings, though they look fun, and the climber
doesn't look accessible to all ages and abilities.
27 The natural play area is the one I like best. The more that playground
equipment can leverage natural materials and shapes, the better.
28 Tall slides, we really enjoyed the playground in Frisco , CO at Walter Byron
Park. Lots of fun for all ages, all day. My son like tall slides like the one in
Gunnison , CO (Jorgensen Park
31 I would like to see bars, rings and ropes suitable for teens and adults to use.
32 Collaborative play and chance to interact and meet other kids. Also lots of
SHADE please ;).
33 The trampoline seems like a fun and new concept. I've never seen a park with
that and my kids love to jump!
34 What excites me most is equipment that better suits the ages 3-5. Current
structure was great for 2 and under, and then for older kids who would reach
the higher aspects. North Boulder Park is one of the closest parks to us but
we rarely went because everything required physical assistance from a
parent.. does not encourage independent or peer play. Plus the community
exercise equipment was a constant draw.
35 I love the platform playground equipment because it has the most versatility
for children of all ages and abilities. I love the recycled rubber flooring
because it's the safest in my opinion. I also love the hammock swing and
other more innovating swings than the traditional swings. Kids love to
swing, but get tired of the same old style.
36 I like the natural looking structures because they match the surrounding
landscape.
38 The trampoline is fun for kids and you can swing and spin with friends.
ResponseID Response
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123
40 The natural setting would be really nice to bring to the park. Right now it's
so open and not much shade, so bringing in more opportunities for shade
and play on nature items would be a big upgrade.
41 Would love: sand or other digging / creative features (small rocks, sand pit).
We moved from Washington Park in Denver and the shady sand area there
was the best part! Would also love a water feature / stream or splash pad!
42 More opportunities for safe, independent exploration
44 My children are 4 and 5 and the existing equipment is too young for them. I
would love for more climbing equipment and 'get your energy out'
equipment. They currently only use the exercise equipment here which isn't
really safe for their ages.
46 I like the natural materials with less plastic and rubber (there are legitimate
health issues with using recycled tires/crumb rubber as a playground ground
cover - see epidemiological studies esp. of crumb rubber on sports fields and
increased cancer risk).
48 I would love to have an enclosed dog park in North Boulder Park!!!
49 Natural play areas allow for more creativity in play and encourage risk
taking.
50 I like what's there right now
52 Climbing and jumping
57 Anything that is like Laverne M Johnson park would be amazing. It is the
favorite park in the area of every family we know. Natural looking tree
houses. Also, we need a lot more SHADE!
58 Trampoline
59 We have a 5 year old who loves to climb. The in ground trampoline is fun.
Shade please
60 I like the natural play opportunities for kids to get to experience a more
natural play setting
61 The natural play opportunities look very fun to play on.
ResponseID Response
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124
63 I would really like to see equipment for the youngest ages. So much of the
time we are at the Christiansen park on Kings Ridge there are non school
age children but the majority of the play structures are intended for children
5-12. It would be nice for there to be more opportunities for younger
children. The same is true at north boulder park since the 2-5 age structure
has so much vandalism now. I do like NBP more because it did have the two
distinct structures for different ages
64 Pull up bars
65 Mostly wood, lots of climbing challenges and opportunities for group
collaboration and play
66 Group swings as well as individual swings. Any type of tree house top type
thing that allows kids to be creative.
67 Natural Play Opportunities! Allows children to develop curiosities about the
environment and see it in a different way—something to interact with.
69 We are hoping for playground equipment for older kids (ages 10-15).
Climbing structures and an inground trampoline would be amazing!
70 Climbing structures would be great for our kids (age 8 and 13) as would the
inground trampoline
72 Natural and environmental
74 I like the types of structures that blend in most with nature.
75 I think it should be like the library playground d or like the plays structures in
Brockwell Park in London. Imaginative, unique.
76 Climbing structures and tall towers are a huge hit with our kids - and appeal
to kids of all ages!
77 Natural play areas
78 Natural, wood and stone. No high aerial structures. Ping pong, curling and
shuffle board preferred.
ResponseID Response
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125
79 I'm very excited for this upgrade! We live a block away and have a two year
old and a four year old. We visit the park almost every day, and it's a really
important part of our lives. This upgrade will be great; as I'm sure you know,
when the frequent fireworks users damaged the tunnel slide, it was
destroyed and still hasn't been replaced years later. I was a little confused
about how to answer the first question; what matters more than the
aesthetic of the materials is the practicality and safety to me. For instance,
are some safer for fall impact and high heat? Also, I try to avoid plastic, but
this would be an area of such lasting and widespread use that I'm less
concerned. I think an upgrade at the park will be awesome! My young boys do
love the existing diggers, and keeping them or something like them would be
awesome. Slides, swings, and climbing structures of course. One of our
favorite parks is LaVern Johnson in Lyons; the zip line, treehouse, and spider
web are so cool (along with the fantastic summer water features of course).
In the pictures, the trampoline and tree houses / pods looked fun. I'd love to
continue to provide feedback and be involved! Thank you.
80 Natural elements
81 My playground users are most excited about the inground trampoline option!
They also love swings and any climbing structures
82 1. Monkey bars : the current monkey bars with the triangle handles are much
loved! 2. Fire pole : The fire pole is a fun challenge for the kids and much
loved! 3. Given the panoramic view of the flatirons, the flatirons climbing
rock like Chautauqua park has would be amazing!
84 We like the smooth ground surfaces over rocky ground surfaces, mixed with
faux or real rocks and faux or real wood. We're also adults who LOVE the
swings at North Boulder Park for the stellar Flatiron views while swinging:
Our favorite swings in all of Boulder!
87 Mix of wood and rope climbing structures feels safer and won't be burning
hot in the sun like metal. The hammock swing is something I haven't seen
but can picture my kids loving!
88 Climbing walls for different age levels/abilities
89 The more shade on the equipment, the better. The playground in un-usable
when it gets above a certain temperature (anything above high 70s with
direct sun) and the equipment gets dangerously hot.
90 There are SO many kids that visit North Boulder Park, so something that
would accommodate a lot of children playing at once.
ResponseID Response
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91 I would not want a trampoline, kids will argue over them and it will take
forever to leave the park. No sandboxes please!!! Animals use them as
toilets and the sand gets filled with bugs. I love the idea of group swings and
spinners. As a parent of more than one kid it makes my time more enjoyable
at the playground.
92 Slides and swings are our favorite playground things. And adaptive swings
are a must!! They are so much better than infant swings which have limited
use to young babies- while adaptive swings can be used by all; but are also a
swing that disabled children can use safely.
93 Equipment that can attract all ages. Equipment that is physically
challenging and creative. Less plastic. More natural. Take a look at the
equipment and landscaping at the Dillon Amphiteater playground.
95 No sand! Climbing structures, lots of shade (this playground gets a lot of
sun), swings.
96 Large climbing structures for groups of kids to use - go high and are bright
and cheerful. Water features that are climbing structures in winter and
summer. Trees and natural features. Unique structures that reflect
creativity, child integration, interest for all ages. Equipment that does not
grow old but stays interesting and fun for many years to come. Equipment
that allows kids for diverse ages to engage significantly and not merely sit
on top of. Equipment that interests adults as well as children so they join in
the fun.
97 Please, please take inspiration from PACO SANCHEZ park in Denver!!
Boulder is devoid of creativity when it comes to all playgrounds. Paco
Sanchez serves all ages well.
99 We would really like a monkey playground so both kids and adults can do
workouts. As of now we go there to do workouts in general. So it would be
great if the workout structure was still there.
100 My children are most excited about the trampoline and also love north
boulder park presently for its access to 2 different types of monkey bars.
102 Aesthetically I like the wood and natural elements as well as the pops of
color. I would like to see some sort of shade system or shaded areas
incorporated. As well as regular swings.
103 Group swings
ResponseID Response
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104 All 5 of my kids agreed on the in ground trampoline and are very excited
about that possibility. It excited them most to get to do cool new tricks,
jumping and playing with friends. They would love to see some type of water
feature like a splash pad area (similar to the Loveland Spray Park). Lastly, a
zip line is being requested :)
105 I like the tall complex structures with multiple platforms and slide and
monkey bars
109 Safe platforms for rollicking.
110 Really looking forward to the new playground! We got to North Boulder Park
almost every day- some shade structures would be good- it's quite hot
especially in the morning/mid day, but I know that can be hard to accomplish
without mature trees around it. My girls love the Chautaqua playground &
their other favorite the smaller "rocks" park at Columbine elementary.
113 I love the idea of incorporating natural elements to complement the beauty
of this park.
115 I like the idea of the natural settings so that children can be creative. I also
like group swings. We love small slides for our little one.
117 i would like to see one or two more backhoes added
119 The angled rock for climbing and the Natural opportunities
120 Possibly water features? Like Lavern Johnson park or a splash pad. Possibly
zip line. Lots of cool platforms and play structures. North Boulder park
should be the best park in Boulder due to it's size, space, proximity to
downtown and with lots more housing planned at alpine balsam it needs to
be large/complex enough to accommodate a larger number of kids than it
currently does.
121 Trampoline
122 Splash pad or other water feature for kids to play.
124 Natural seating area
126 Ziplines, tall climbing structure with slide, teeter-totter swing (see video)
This is the best playground we've ever seen, would LOVE to see NoBo park
incorporate some of these elements! https://www.youtube.com/watch?
v=ufCQT6gEVo0
128 the in ground trampoline looks so fun! i definitely come here more often if
there was a trampoline (and my friends would too)!
ResponseID Response
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131 I would love to see lots of ways for kids to play from young to older. My
daughter is 5 and currently is almost too big for the current equipment. I like
the idea of group swings or spinners, but it would also be nice to have
individual type things that would support 1-2 children.
132 Deva (3.5y) is really excited about the trampoline image. "We even have a
trampoline at home and I get so excited!" She mentioned climbing structures
a lot, too.
133 More trees and less structures
134 Natural landscapes. SHADE.
136 Natural Play - mimic the natural environment as much as possible.
137 Natural play opportunities where kids can use their imagination makes it
more exciting for the kids long-term - meaning they want to go back more
often and stay longer. Would LOVE more shade!!!
139 I like the squishy/springy ground material
140 Natural items that are beautiful
143 Bigger multiple levels structures
144 A tall tower for the older kids would be wonderful. Some shaded areas or
even a water feature to play in would be great for hot summer days.
146 The colorful wood and stone structure, with an area to monkey and swing
from the structure, that included a big slide. Also, we like the group swing
and in-ground trampoline.
147 The hammock swing seems fun! I love that it gives multiple kids the
opportunity to play together, but it could also be a solo activity.
149 Splash pad
150 Natural play and sitting areas are nice shady places for kids to interact
151 Equipment that encourages young children to explore their balance,
curiosities, and physical growth. Also, please add splash pad/zone!
152 The in-ground trampoline is unique to boulder playgrounds and my kids love
the trampolines at gymnastics at the boulder rec center. My kids also spend
the most time at playgrounds in the natural open-ended play areas- whether
its the water pump at Christiansen park or the Canal and sandbox at Pine
View park.
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153 Natural Play Opportunities because it would help kids connect nature and
play
156 - A zipline would be unique to the parks in this area (like at NIWOT park) -
Large sails for shade is a must. - Larger climbing structures for older kids
would be nice-NoBo currently is built for the toddler age group. - We hope
you keep monkey bars and would love to see more.
157 Ziplines and climbing structures.
159 Natural place. Shady. A place to chill.
160 The trampoline! Having a bigger option than pictured would be great. Would
also like to see a revamped under cover seating area that feels clean and
enjoyable.
161 climbing and par core (sp?) type of activities. Also I don't see any option with
sun sails offereing shade and protection from the sun! That 100% should be
included in some elements of the palyground. It is standard in places where
there is strong sun like Australia. There needs to be protection form sun.
162 A ninja course would be super fun for older kids. Would love to see a
playground suited for 10 - 15 age group. Also would like to see regular
swings.
164 In ground trampoline. The foam surface with embedded elements - caves,
slides, etc. - is most exciting.
165 A water feature would be awesome especially with how hot it is getting. It
would also be great if the play area is enclosed.
167 would love to see structures to provide shade and a splash pad of sorts!
168 The natural play opportunities and natural seating areas feel most
supportive to growth and creativity in young children. I would feel at peace
bringing my children there as well as connected personally.
169 I am most excited about the natural play opportunities. I think the
playground at the library in Boulder is a great example of what would be
nice in North Boulder Park.
171 Love natural playgrounds. The group spinner and group swing are great
because the kids can move/interact with them.
173 Love the climbing!
174 We like climbing stuff for the kiddos. Monkey bars. Swings.
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175 In ground trampoline. That looks sick.
176 I think using a combination of climbing structures and platform play would
be nice. I think it would keep the unrest if kids longer and offer more variety.
I think the current playground (when it was fully usable) was pretty limited
and my kids, at any age lost interest pretty quickly. Also more shade please!
It's so hot there in the summers and the structures get so hot to touch and
use as well! Thank you!
178 I really love the natural play equipment at chataqua park, particularly the
use of boulders and mixed age platforms. At north boulder, I'd really love to
get rid of the rocks because young babies always try to eat them and they
get thrown on the slides. Additionally, there should be a separate bike
section. Right now, kids zoom around the perimeter on bikes and hit younger
children. It's dangerous. And a coffee hut or snack stand would be a huge hit!
179 The climbing features for my daughter who loves to climb.
180 Splash pad for when it's too hot in the summer to play on equipment. No life
guards needed!
181 Any natural features are an extra bonus
183 I like the structures behind the in ground tramp the best but they aren't
described
184 I love added more things to the passive side of Recreation as there are so
many places for the children to play it's nice to have places for the teens and
parents as well.
185 More natural the better. I really like the exercise equipment too. A lot of
people use it and it would be bad to not have it.
186 "Like to swing!" my 2.5 year old says as we complete the survey together.
Creativity and shade with the natural play opportunities. I would love to see
equipment that is robust to the inevitable fireworks that will be detonated
within them. Or something modular/easily fixable? It was such a bummer to
have the playground destroyed for my kid when outdoor play was one of the
best things we could do during covid.
187 Platforms connecting multiple structures. Climbing walls and other things to
climb.
188 Group swings are fun. Keep the workout equipment. More shade
190 Highest priority by far: Shaded natural play opportunities. Minimal use of
metal, plastic and the like. Would be nice to include a durable water feature
as in the playground near the public library, as well as a zipline.
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193 Natural play opportunities are the most exciting, as well as opportunities to
climb. I would also like to see water play incorporated into the natural play
opportunities if possible. It would be great to add a kids zipline as well.
195 please have some musical play element: not a little out of tune xylophone,
something that's actually tuned with intervals that kids can use to make
pleasing sounds.
196 Our kids loved this climbing structure in Cambridge MA, because of the
platform at the top and the slide down https://bbk12e1-
cdn.myschoolcdn.com/22/photo/2015/07/orig_photo393679_5379815.jpg?
w=1920
198 Fun, safe with the least amount of plastic. Climbing and nature embody
Boulder, so our parks should reflect this.
199 more shade please!!!
200 Two of the best playgrounds we've been to are Niwot and Westminster
Nature Playground. We like the water feature, the wood and stone elements,
and plenty of features to climb/make a balance beam, etc
201 Lots of natural elements that also incorporate the existing tree cover A
splash pad/fountain Sand Niwot Chatacqua Westminster Station (love this
park but no shade)
203 Incorporating nature into the design. A water feature would be great! But I
expect that's might not be feasible without natural water source. Lavern
Johnson and Chautauqua parks are my family's favorites.
204 Swings, climbing rock, rope net, in-ground trampoline
207 Love Niwot's Children's park. Love everything about it. Especially the zip line.
208 Water element for summer
209 Water features!
210 In ground trampoline. Platform on chains that move under you. Rock wall.
Towers and dofferent climbing structures (rocks. Tunnels)
211 We suggest more baby swings, as North Boulder Park seems very poplar for
families with young children.
213 I think making it as natural as possible while still being fun, exciting and
relevant. Safe teeter totters would be fun.
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214 Natural play opportunities and climbing structures stand out the most. It
would be great to have these opportunities for the kids to learn and practice
their motor skills. Especially in this community with a lot of the community
into outdoor activities, it would be really special to include that into the
playground. Perhaps some hiking, climbing, or skiing-inspired natural play
opportunities. Other: 1). An excavator (that's easier to use than the current
one) and an even simpler version of an excavator for 1-3 year olds. 1-3 year
olds probably use the park the most and are obsessed with all things trucks,
so it would be really nice if there were an excavator that is accessible to
them. 2) Splash pad - the playground is too hot in the summer and is really
not usable for most of the summer days. It would be amazing to have a
splash pad for the community. Given that there are very few public
swimming options (with decreased pool hours with a shortage in lifeguards)
and few splash pad options for a variety of ages, this would be a big draw for
the community, especially if geared toward a wide age range (1-12). 3)
Multiple slide options with one shaded so it could be used in the summer
(but others not shaded so they aren't icy and can still be used in the winter).
4) We'd love to see more shade over portions of the playground in order for
the playground to be able to be used in the summer (but not the whole
playground so it's not icy in the winter). 5). Removal of rocks (choking
hazard). We'd love the soft, bouncy flooring to be used as much as possible
for a safe and comfortable play area. 6) Coffee stand for the adults! This
could be operated by the city and the proceeds go to funding the splash pad!
Or it could be a small hut built by the city and rented out by local businesses
to offer support local - and the rental proceeds go to the splash pad!
215 Live group activities like spinner and swings
218 Climbing structures or walls are so great
220 More challenging and exploratory structures
221 They all look fun but I've not seen the unground trampoline before!
224 More options, several slide and swing options, a ground material that is not
rocks or sand or wood chips, elements to challenge my child.
225 Would love a nature playground like the one at McKay Lake in Broomfield.
Lots of natural structures for kids to play/climb but also slides and stuff for
little kids.
228 Baby swings, climbing structure with slides, trampoline.
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7. How frequently do you use the exercise equipment?
65% Never65% Never
22% Less than once a week22% Less than once a week
13% Once a week or more13% Once a week or more
Value Percent Responses
Never 65.2%118
Less than once a week 22.1%40
Once a week or more 12.7%23
Totals: 181
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ResponseID Response
13 The kids love it and all the moving parts seem to break often. Because they
love it so much, I think it should be kept but would like to see EWF or PIP
surfacing (not concrete) beneath the exercise equipment. If new equipment
is installed here, a ninja course would be great as well.
14 The exercise equipment is regularly used by kids at this park. Even though
the moving parts tend to break often, it feels like an extension of the
playground. Because of this, I would suggest installing EWF or PIP surfacing
(not concrete) beneath this equipment. I know soft surfacing is not required
but it would minimize risk and injury and would be the right thing to do.
22 My kids love trying out the equipment with me!
24 Kids enjoy it, so perhaps kid versions would be nice!
25 The exercise equipment is used by adults, not kids. If you keep it in the park -
move it to a completely different area. As a parent it's a bit unnerving to
have sweaty 20-something-year-old men in the same area as my young
children. It doesn't make me feel like they are safe. As you design this
playground remember there are literally 10-30 kids there at any one time -
make sure there is enough stuff that they can all play. Oh - and please make
sure to leave a bike path the kids can scoot/bike around (the concrete path
around the play area is awesome for that)
27 It is silly to put adult exercise equipment next to a kids playground and then
suggest that kids should not use it. Please remove it or relocate it to a
different part of the park. My kids are always much more drawn to the
exercise equipment than the kids play area.
28 Keep the bathrooms open more
30 Shade shade shade
31 I only use the pull up bars and the dip bar.
32 More shade, and a bathroom please
33 I don't use them, but my kids enjoy trying to.
34 Perhaps newer elements will be less of a risk for the small children that love
to play on it. It was a constant battle to keep the kids off of it.
35 It's dangerous. My young children always want to try it out and it's just plain
dangerous. It's also outdated and I've almost never seen an adult using it
when I'm at the park.
8. What other comments, if any, do you have about the exercise
equipment or playground at North Boulder Park?
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135
38 It's great if you have enough people that say they'll use it, but the most part
of observed kids playing with that equipment. I'd prefer for that space to be
used for kid play.
40 I like the idea of adding elements to bring in a more diverse age group.
Adding more gathering spaces I think would promote more family gatherings
in general.
41 would love to remove and make more space for children's play!
42 More shade, please!
44 My kids use it instead of the playground equipment. I would like the exercise
equpment to be taken out for more playground space.
45 Kids playground equipment would get far more use.
49 Children spend a significant amount of time on the exercise equipment.
52 I like the things that are there. The circuit training stuff is great.
55 Not sure why this is so close to the kids area as there is always some creepy
shirtless 40 y.o. dude with his shirt off right next to the kids. It doesn't seem
like it gets used that much by adults anyway... Just young kids messing
around on them.
56 The Boulder Nordic Club, 501c3, would like minimal space for its cross-
country ski route maintained. The BNC is happy to remain subordinate to
primary uses of the park but minimal space for ski trail routing when
conditions permit would be great. Thanks for all your work on this project!
57 it is dangerous for kids, and hard to keep them off it. I have only every seen
adults use it as a pull-bar occasionally. I think it should 100% go.
58 Shade is needed.
59 The elliptical machine wheel is a danger to small children fingers
60 Please keep it! We use it everyday and it is such a valuable part of the park.
A couple of the pieces do need repair but we love working out while our
daughter plays at the playground!
63 Much of the equipment that is there actually poses safety hazards to
children. kids are attracted to it for some reason but there are so many
places to pinch fingers, etc. it is quite dangerous. Keeping the bars would be
beneficial and is what I most often see being used by exercising adults. More
shade in general on the playground itself would be great.
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65 Appreciate your getting ahead of the curve and replacing equipment before
its condition deteriorates
66 The exercise equipment is so dangerous for children but impossible for them
to avoid. My daughter busted her chin open and had 7 stitches when she
played on it and slammed to the concrete below. I rarely see it used by
adults (and we live right next to the park so we are there often). Please get
rid of this feature! Or at the very least put some sort of soft landing under it.
Concrete is so dangerous at a playground.
67 None. I have never used it.
69 The kids seems to play on it more than I see adults actually using it.
70 I rarely see it being used by adults.
71 I like basketball and other adults activities in addition to the playgrojnd
72 Keep it natural - prefer no bright colors. Also, the biggest thing missing at
most playgrounds is shade and shaded places for parents to sit so we can
stay cool while watching kids/grandkids play. NB Park could use a lot more
trees/shade along the sidewalks.
75 The ability to add weight to the machines.
76 I rarely see it being used for its intended purpose. It is instead always used
by small children for play, which is dangerous.
78 Physical therapy consultation for appropriate apparatus for senior citizens in
neighborhood is highly recommended.
79 I sometimes see adults using it but very rarely. Honestly it seems like a
waste of space and it's hazardous for the kids. The kids always beeline for it,
and it's not safe for them! I think it would be better to minimize that area or
even eliminate it to make for more kids playground area. All of Boulder is
exercise area for adults! Why not focus on this being a special place for the
kids?
81 The exercise equipment is so dangerous for children. Our child busted her
chin open and had seven stitches. We try to keep our kids from using it but
given its proximity to the children's area it is difficult. Having any area of a
children's playground be concrete is so dangerous. We live very near the
park and are there often and we rarely see adults using this equipment.
82 They lead to dangerous play among the kids! Not a fan.
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84 Appreciate the shade trees and non-metal seating near the play area. A
welcome addition would be individual picnic tables beyond the rentable
concrete picnic structure, under trees at the north, east, or west sides of
park. Favorite current structure is stone semicircular seating on east side
near Cedar.
86 My major concern is how often (daily) I see young children using the exercise
equipment in an unsafe fashion. The proximity of the exercise equipment to
the playground makes children think that it is an extension of the
playground. Ideally, the exercise equipment should be moved away from the
playground equipment.
87 I dislike the exercise equipment because young kids are drawn to it and it
isn't age appropriate or safe for them. I've seen an adult male use the high
pull up bar once, other than that, the equipment seems to be a waste of
space and a hazard for young kids.
88 Love it!
89 Seems to get more use by the kids as an extension of the playground that
adults looking for workout equipment.
90 It would be great to keep the exercise equipmnet. Its a nice option while kids
are playing.
91 I've never seen anyone actually using it. My 4 year old loves it which is not
ideal.
92 The exercise equipment area is a total waste of space and money. If you
want to include some exercise options, maybe have more playground things
that COULD be used for exercise (ie pull up bar) but that is also usable for
children.
93 I live in this neighborhood for 30 years. I have never understood why we have
this heavy, metal, adult exercise equipment. Seems much more appropriate
for a gym. Why not have more structures for whole families to enjoy?
95 The exercise equipment is not often used but for the pull-up and dips bar.
That real estate can be better utilized.
97 Keep the little pump track. Swings are classic. The rest can go…transforming
into Boulder's most epic playground yet (a.k.a. like Paco Sanchez park in
Denver. Named and designed after Denver's first Latino D.J.) How rad?!
99 We really like the workout and would like for it to stay or have more workout
Stations.
103 My kids love the exercise equipment, even though it's not sized for them
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104 We are all super excited!
105 It's a little junky and I only ever see kids play on it
107 It should be a little more separate from the playground
109 Why not repurpose the funds if there is no safety problems? Where does the
useful life criteria come from, the New Playground Manufacturers of America
trade group?
110 I think it would be good if there were more separation from the playground/
exercise equipment- most kids end up wanting to play on the exercise
equipment because it feels like part of the playground- I think it poses quite
a risk.
112 No one in the neighborhood likes the exercise equipment. It is used by creepy
guys that don't live in the community and is incredibly incongruous and out
of place with this being a safe area for our children.
113 It is somewhat dangerous for children and most of it outside of the pull-up
bar rarely gets used by adults. The pull-up bar does get use, doesn't
obstruct anything, and poses no danger to littles.
115 The exercise equipment is dangerous for all the children. We've seen one kid
have his fingers pinched on the elliptical machine. Would love to see some
diggers stick around for the little children. Our two year old son loves to sit
and dig and ride the other little animals. Would love to see the pavilion
updated. It is very dark and often quite dirty. It would be very nice to have
new grills too! Very much looking forward to new bathrooms and year-round!
117 shade and safety are important
118 The exercise equipment seems totally inappropriate next to a park catering
to young children. In Santa Monica and other similar cities they do not place
adult areas in such close proximity to kid areas. It seems like that proximity
could be taken advantage of in a number off ways. Additionally, I would say
that equipment is often used for climbing by young children.
119 children seem to use it as often as adults. It should be safe for both.
120 My daughters say, "do the best you can"
122 Splash pad
124 The other elements area should be simple calisthenic exercise equipment...
pull up bars, parallel bars, boxes or stones to jump up on.
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126 I haver never seen any adults using the exercise equipment, only kids
climbing and playing on it
128 Ideally the bathrooms could be open all the time.
131 I think that this is dated and unnecessary. We are at the playground daily
and I'd love to see more play space for everyone, but no one is really using
any equipment other than the bars (3 sizes).
132 Would be nice to have more of a par course style equipment, as most of the
things here don't have options for more or less resistance.
133 Children should not be allowed on them, as they cause injuries. parents do
not monitor the equipment.
134 Should have a fence around it. Not safe for 2-5 year olds to play on, but they
can't resist trying. It's a source of conflict. I like the idea of the exercise
equipment though. Could also put it farther away from play area.
135 Be crea
137 Would love to see it gone or in a separate area. It can be dangerous for the
younger kids. More shaded play areas please.
138 please keep the exercise equipment!
140 The wood chips are terrible. Any metal gets too hot. We want natural and
beautiful play grounds that allow kids of all ages to play.
143 Replace that area with a splash pad!!!! We need more splash pad areas in the
inner parts of boulder.
144 I don't use the exercise equipment and would be happier with more kids'
playground area.
146 It seems to mostly be used by kids, and had the tendency to get broken
easily. I don't really think it's necessary
147 Wouldn't it be great if it was spread out around the playground area so
parents could keep an eye on their kiddos, while still exercising? It would be
GREAT to have some playground opportunities/equipment for older kids--
there is very little for older kids to do in Boulder!
150 Maybe could be separated more clearly from kids play equipment, as not
safe for kids
151 We like the idea of the exercise equipment but it isn't very effective for
exercise. Would love to see a splash pad for the kids.
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152 My kids think it's fun to play with and gives them the opportunity to see how
gym equipment can work without a gym membership!
153 I only see kids using it, which makes it dangerous.
154 I think it was a good idea but doesn't get utilized as it was intended to, kind
of a waste of space.
156 No one exercises on this equipment, and it is a hazard for the kids. I'd love to
see it removed and more play equipment take its place.
157 Only pull-up bars consistently used for exercise. Rest is usually used by kids.
159 Ice skating rink in winter
161 stupid - i can't believe kids haven't been hurt on it. parents let kids play on it
unattended and its not meant for play
162 Would rather get rid of the exercise equipment and have more space for
larger play structures. I almost never see anyone using the equipment
correctly. It's usually just kids screwing around on it.
163 It's not needed. If there is a need for it, it should be completely separate
from the park area
164 It's all broken and always ends up hurting a small child trying to use it.
168 I think in theory they're an interesting idea, but in practice people who are
intentional about resistance exercises belong to a gym, have equipment at
home, or do bodyweight exercises. The exercise equipment currently take up
a lot of space and don't offer that much utility. I think they should be
replaced with natural materials and non-toxic play spaces.
169 i do see adults using it, but more often than not I see children using it to play
on.
170 We take our grandson there frequently. The climbing wall and the tilted
spinner are his favorites.
171 I never use it. My kids use them to play with. Again, they like equipment that
they can interact with (ie - spinners, diggers, exercise equipment).
176 The exercise equipment has to go! Little kids are drawn to that and it's to big
and dangerous for them. Additionally it draws in people who shouldn't be
there while kids are playing.
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178 I think the space could be better utilized with Childress equipment or a bike
park. Kids play on it now and it's not safe for them. If it's utilized by the
community, maybe move it to the opposite side of the community shelter.
179 My kids do enjoy the exercise equipment but they'd like tall climbing features
more.
180 Dangerous
181 We are at the park most days of the week and sometimes see adults on
some of the exercise equipment but the younger kiddos tend to gravitate
towards the mini pump track (would be amazing to have an even bigger one)
and the climbing features/ slides.
182 I'm disappointed that a city that talks so much about "zero waste" is
discarding equipment that remains very functional. It's also disappointing
that the only real opportunity for public input is about *which* new
equipment to install, not *whether* to replace the existing equipment. P&R
employees have referred to updated safety standards, but it also sounds like
the safety standards are at least in part driven by the playground equipment
industry, which is not exactly an impartial party.
184 Glad you're doing this. Needs updating. Good job. Mile markers around the
park to track steps and laps.
185 I would be very sad not to have some exercise equipment. Mostly the pull up
bars
186 Seems like it's bad for the kids (inappropriate) and bad for the adults
(because there are always kids hanging off of it). Maybe just some more
physical separation?
187 We really need shade! Please have trees or other covering structures for the
summer, it gets so sunny!
188 Love the equipment. Please keep it. Only comment is that it gets too hot to
use being in direct Sun. Shade trees would be appreciated.
189 Keep it and update the pieces with natural body weight resistance. It has
been great to see more people using it, and I enjoy it most mornings.
191 I might use them if they were higher quality or offered better instructions-
they don't really seem functional for exercise! Kids love to play in them but
it's a little dangerous
194 Pull up bars are heavily used. Resistance mechanisms much less so (by
adults at least)
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195 I guess it's good if people are using it...?
198 Excited for an update to our local park, Something more aesthetic and
natural that encourages safe play and interactions.
200 Please put in a tennis court or two!!!
201 Pull up bar is fine — but all the equipment is dangerous for kids and very
rarely see anyone actually using them
203 Separate from kids play area since they can be hazardous and they appear to
be play equipment.
205 Needs more shade
208 Needs more shade or elements that don't heat up in the sun
209 Please keep or update the exercise equipment, it is very appreciated!
210 Not often used would be better suited further from the playground
211 For exercise equipment, could there be more natural rock or wood steps or
platforms? Also, the elliptical machine may be the most popular piece of
equipment in the whole park!
213 I think it's nice to incorporate both however the exercise equipment seems
rarely used in comparison to playground
214 We'd like to see the exercise equipment removed and not replaced. Many
times kids play on it or try to, and it is not designed for nor safe for children.
Parks are for the community, but playgrounds are for children. There is
always one creepy shirtless guy walking around the exercise equipment
blasting a boombox. This is not a comfortable environment for children (or
parents to have their children around). If the community wants public
exercise equipment, I'd recommend it not be placed adjacent to the
playground. One suggestion is to replace the area of exercise equipment
with natural climbing structures for children. Kids usually want to play and
climb on it, so why not actually provide safe climbing structures in that area
instead?
215 More shade please!
220 The exercise equipment is a safety hazard and liability because the children
try to use it inappropriately. It needs to be fenced or removed.
221 The exercise equipment seems to need an update and isn't safe for toddlers
who want to play on or around it
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224 My kid plays on it sometimes but I don't use it to work out
228 The kids play on it all the time.
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North Boulder Park
Site Plan
SITE PLAN: CONCEPT ALTERNATIVE A
Proposed Site Plan Features*
* Images shown represent intent of equipment to be selected.
Final selections may be different than what is shown above.
2 to 5 Play Structure2 to 5 Play Structure 2 to 5 Toddler Swing Seasonal Shade Structure
5 to 12 Play Structure 5 and Up Belt Swing
Trampoline
Sand Play and Water Table Area Loose Materials Play Area
Water Play Area Fitness Area (Obstacle Course)Teen-Friendly Park Features
11
10
EXISTING
BASKETBALL COURT
and PING PONG
EXISTING
SHELTER
EXPANDED
SHELTER SPACE
GATHERING
SPACE
BERMING for PLAY
and DRAINAGE
EXISTING
DIAMOND FIELD
EXISTING
OPEN TURF FIELD
EXISTING
OPEN TURF FIELD
EXISTING
BIKE TOT TRACK
NNNNNNNNNNN
Concept Plan Alternative A: For Play Areas, Fitness,
Shelter, Bathrooms, and Adjacent Gathering Areas
6
2
3
1
4
8
9
5
7
12
1 2 3 4
5 6
7
8 9
10 11 12
Attachment E: Site Plan Alternative A
145
North Boulder Park
Site Plan
Proposed Site Plan Features*
* Images shown represent intent of equipment to be selected.
Final selections may be different than what is shown above.
2 to 5 Play Structure2 to 5 Play Structure Embankment Slide
2 to 5 Swing 5 to 12 Play Structure
Rock and Log Scramble Sand Play
Trampoline Ring Traverse Custom In-Ground Net Climber
5 and Up Belt Swings Water Play Fitness Area (Functional Fitness)Teen-Friendly Park Features
SITE PLAN: CONCEPT ALTERNATIVE A
Concept Plan Alternative B: For Play Areas, Fitness,
Shelter, Bathrooms, and Adjacent Gathering Areas
1 2 3 4
5 6 7 8 9
10 11 12 13
11
EXISTING
BASKETBALL COURT
and PING PONG
EXISTING
SHELTER
EXPANDED
SHELTER SPACE
GATHERING
SPACE
BERMING for PLAY
and DRAINAGE
EXISTING
DIAMOND FIELD
EXISTING
OPEN TURF FIELD
EXISTING
OPEN TURF FIELD
EXISTING
BIKE TOT TRACK
NNNNNNNNNNN
6
2
3
1
4
5
12
13
7
10
8
9
Attachment F: Site Plan Alternative F
146
3198 Broadway, Boulder, CO 80304 | www.boulderparks-rec.org | O: 303-413-7200
TO: Parks and Recreation Advisory Board
FROM: Alison Rhodes, Director of Parks and Recreation
Bryan Beary, Senior Manager, Community Building + Partnerships
Mark Davison, Senior Manager, Planning
Regina Elsner, Senior Manager, Natural Lands
Jackson Hite, Senior Manager, Business Services
Megann Lohman, Senior Manager, Recreation
Stephanie Munro, Senior Manager, Regional Facilities
Dennis Warrington, Senior Manager, Urban Parks Manager
SUBJECT: Matters from the Department
DATE: October 24, 2022
A. PRAB Role Overview
This item is a verbal presentation by Deputy City Attorney, Sandra Llanes. It will
summarize information found in the Boulder City Charter, Boulder Revised Code, and
the PRAB Handbook (see Attachment A).
Attachment A PRAB Handbook
B. Micromobility Pilot
Executive Summary
The City of Boulder’s shared micromobility program was developed following the direction of
City Council on September 15, 2020, to include e-scooters into the program; and to conduct a
competitive Request for Proposals (RFP) process to select a vendor to provide shared
micromobility services for the Boulder community. As a result of the RFP process, Lime (e-
scooters) was selected to provide services, which officially began on August 17, 2021.
The intent of this memo is to share the preliminary findings from the shared e-scooter one-year
pilot program, including use statistics and public perceptions gleaned from a city administered
questionnaire. Staff seeks informal input from members of the Parks and Recreation Board
regarding areas of opportunity and/or areas of concern to synthesize with the other findings and
analysis of this pilot.
147
3198 Broadway, Boulder, CO 80304 | www.boulderparks-rec.org | O: 303-413-7200
Lime, a shared e-scooter vendor, has deployed 300 shared e-scooters in a limited-service area
east of 28th Street. Lime currently operates a “dockless” form of shared micromobility and
allows customers to locate and rent a device nearest to their location. Dockless shared
micromobility provides the convenience to ride the device to their precise destination and park
virtually anywhere. There are some tradeoffs, however, with a dockless system. Devices are
sometimes parked in a manner which blocks the public right-of-way and can impede the passage
of pedestrians, cyclists, and people with disabilities.
Shared e-scooters are a new form of mobility to Boulder, and Boulder has been in in the learning
stage over the past year to understand how it works, while at the same time, educating users how
to safely operate and park the devices in a responsible manner.
Staff is collecting and analyzing operational data and community input to inform an evaluation
report that will be presented to the Transportation Advisory Board and City Council in Q4 2022.
In the meantime, Transportation and Mobility staff are reaching out to select boards,
commissions, and community stakeholders to share the preliminary findings from the pilot study
while seeking input regarding observations from the pilot and suggestions to help refine the
program.
In preparation of the staff presentation on October 27, staff would like to prepare the Parks and
Recreation Advisory Board with a few initial key findings:
By the Numbers
Below is a snapshot of operational data for Lime shared e-scooters:
Measures Lime E-Scooters
Number of devices currently deployed 300
Number of trips 115,000
Total distance traveled (miles) 117,700
Average trips per device per day 1.5
Average trip duration (minutes) 11
Average trip distance (miles) 1
Approximate greenhouse gas savings (grams) 10M
Number of reported severe crashes 4
What We’re Seeing and Hearing
Staff has been actively monitoring the program over the past year, it has experienced both
opportunities and challenges associated with dockless shared mobility. Below is a summary of
the major themes:
• E-scooter parking issues (blocking or impeding travel on sidewalks and multi-use paths)
• Abandoned e-scooters in ditches and creeks
• Appreciation for e-scooter program as a new way to travel around Boulder
• Frustration with inability to travel west of 28th Street
• Alternative to driving, more convenient
• Users do not feel safe on streets/bike lanes
• Unsafe riding behaviors
• Aesthetic concerns / sense of clutter
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• Fun way to get around town, to get to work, school, shop and recreate
Impact to City Parks and Paths
To date, there has not been any specific concerns or events that have negatively impacted City of
Boulder parks. The shared e-scooters are equipped with a GPS unit that can regulate where the
e-scooters are operated. In advance of the start of the program, staff identified areas where
shared e-scooters should not be operated, such as, the lawn at Scott Carpenter Park, Valmont
Bike Park, and Pleasant View fields. Moving forward, this “geofencing” technology can be used
to designate parking areas and include additional areas where e-scooters should not be operated.
Positive aspects of shared e-scooter use include improved accessibility to public parks while
employing a new form of transportation and recreation.
Equity Considerations
Lime offers an affordability program for people with a low-income or who do not have a credit
card or a mobile phone to access the devices. Lime has coordinated with staff to ensure access to
shared devices is available either on or within proximity to traditionally underserved
neighborhoods, including the neighborhoods of Orchard Park, San Juan del Centro, and San
Lazaro. The social equity component was explicitly identified in the RFP scope of work and
Lime is committed to ensuring residents living within these opportunity areas have access to
shared micromobility. As the overall program evolves, Lime and the city will be coordinating
with the City of Boulder Community Connector-In-Residence program to optimize program
access and safety.
Evaluation Process and Program Formalization
Dockless shared e-scooters is new form of mobility to Boulder, and the program is in the
learning stage to understand how it works. Operational data and input from community
members and stakeholders will help shape staff’s proposed next steps to refine and formalize the
program. The timeline below provides additional context of where we are in the process.
Questions for the Parks and Recreation Board
• Do board members have any observations from the pilot they’d like to share; and are
there any suggestions to help refine the program?
C. Overview of Capital Investment Strategy (CIS) Update and Process 2023-2028
The purpose of this memo is to provide an informational update to PRAB on the effort to update
Boulder Parks and Recreation (BPR) Capital Investment Strategy (CIS). The CIS provides a
framework to support park design and construction as well as asset management
recommendations for the enhancement of Boulder’s system of parks and facilities. This practice
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is not new to BPR, the last plan was completed in February 2016. This latest update will shift in
terms of how many years we look ahead, from ten years to six years. The reason for this is to
better align with BPR’s Capital Improvement Program (CIP) and integrate more closely with
BPR Master Plan updates, which are typically every six years.
The strategic framework for the CIS provides an approach to manage the investment of $35
million (in addition to Community Culture Resilience and Safety Tax (CCRS)-funded projects)
into the park system over the next six years. The funding covers all types of assets that BPR
operates and maintains as well as new parks or assets identified in plan policy that are coming
on-line to support parkland Levels of Service. The three major categories of capital investment
are:
• Maintenance: Up to $19 or million, 55%, in maintaining existing assets to
take of what we have (MP Theme: Taking Care of What We Have – Goals 1-4)
• Enhancement: $13 million, 37%, in critical aging infrastructure that needs replacement or major refurbishment (MP Theme: Taking Care of What We Have – Goals 1-4
• New: $3 million, 8%, in enhanced and new facilities as identified in the department’s Master Plan (MP Themes: Community Health and Wellness; Youth Engagement and Activity)
These categories are guided by the City of Boulder 2023-2028 Capital Improvement Program.
The city’s CIP is a comprehensive, six-year plan for capital investment in maintaining and
enhancing public infrastructure across Boulder. The city’s CIP provides a forecast of funds
available for capital projects and identifies all planned capital improvement projects and their
estimated costs over the six-year period. As a community’s CIP, the guide lays out the
framework for achieving the current and future goals related to the physical assets of the
community. The citywide CIP is informed by each city department and coordinated annually
across the organization, therefore BPR’s framework for CIP investment is critical for developing
an investment program for the department and informing interrelated citywide services.
CIS Framework
The CIS for BPR is based on community needs identified through the recent 2022 Master Plan,
the maturing Asset Management Program, and planning efforts covering System, Park, and Site
Plans. The structure of the CIS has three focus areas; to identify a long-term investment strategy
over the next six-years, provide detail around actions to be taken by the department over the next
two years (2023 to 2024), and identify deferred projects through deficiencies in funding that
would improve the overall health of the system by decreasing the value of the maintenance
backlog.
Identifying in more detail the work needed for the 2023-24 projects will enable the Department
to get ahead of planning and design efforts by preparing robust project management plans with
associated engagement planning, monthly schedules as well as updated cost estimates. The goal
is to reduce surprises as projects launch and provide additional support for project managers as
most projects are complex or large and last for more than a year. As we look out to 2025-28, we
will still scope projects with the development of charters. The charters include a quarterly
schedule. As the costs become less reliable as we look further into the future, projects scheduled
further into the future will include a higher contingency to account for the higher budget risks.
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Projects that are identified but don’t fall within the six-year timeframe will have a basic scope
and preliminary cost estimate with no schedule identified at this point; allowing us to add these
projects to the unfunded capital needs list that is reviewed in the development of the annual CIP
work. As we further develop our asset management system and update our current replacement
value (CRV), we will be able to better identify a deferred list that describes where we need
greater capital investment to retain or expand service levels for the community.
The framework also integrates the City of Boulder’s budgeting strategy that is built into the BPR
Master Plan, which denotes the type of funding for an individual project on a sliding scale,
known as scenarios. These scenarios are intended to enable departments to proactively plan for
outcomes in which revenues remain flat or increase. They are defined by three outcomes
covering Fiscally Constrained, Action, and Vision costing scenarios:
Fiscally Constrained plans for prioritized spending within existing budget targets. The intention
of this alternative is to refocus and make the most of existing resources with the primary goal
being for the department to maintain services. The fiscally constrained scenario reflects BPR’s
commitment to the community over the next six years, focusing on core services and those that
benefit the greater community.
Action describes the extra services or capital improvements that could be undertaken when
additional funding is available. This includes making strategic changes that would lead to
additional operational or capital funding. In coordination with the Central Budget office, PRAB,
and City Council, BPR would evaluate and analyze potential sources of additional revenue,
including but not limited to capital bond funding, program income, grants and existing or new
taxes.
Vision represents the complete set of services and facilities desired by the community, without
regard to resources or viability. While the Vision plan is fiscally unconstrained and unfunded, the
intent is to provide high-level policy guidance by illustrating the ultimate goals of the
community.
Integrating with Policy Guidance from the 2022 Master Plan
This comprehensive approach to BPR’s capital investment strategy program is founded on
implementing the key themes of the BPR Master Plan described in the graphic on the left.
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All six themes provide guidance to the CIS.
Of critical importance to maintaining our
assets is Taking Care of What We Have.
We also look to the themes of Community
Health and Wellness, and Youth
Engagement & Activity in order to ensure
we are providing the best facilities,
amenities, and infrastructure to retain or
expand upon our service levels. In addition,
we will consider the most efficient,
sustainable, and robust approach to
managing our assets across the system and
implement the policy as it applies in the
Financial Sustainability and
Organizational Readiness themes. As we
look to improve levels of service, we will
also continue in our approach to Building
Community & Relationships, especially as
we work with recreation groups to consider
ways to fund and manage facilities that can
help achieve our ‘Action’, and ‘Vision’
levels of investment.
In addition to being guided by the themes
from a policy perspective, the master plan
also provides clear direction on community
identified needs for facilities, parks, and
major asset categories across the system
including courts, athletic fields, aquatics,
parking, and accessibility. Balancing the
community’s desires with BPR’s financial
reality requires that the department
prioritize what can be accomplished over
the next six years. The following two
graphics summarize the major CIP projects
that BPR will need to work on and includes
the three budgeting scenarios in which
future projects and programs are
prioritized.
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Fig 1. Table highlighting overarching guidance for park investment in the BPR capital program
Fig 2. Table highlighting overarching guidance for facility investment in the BPR capital program
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Overview of Asset Management System and how it informs the CIS
The department has begun to address how we manage and maintain our assets using a modern
tracking system called Beehive. We have completed the first phase of our asset inventory and
begun the work of implementing Beehive. Beehive launched in the late Fall of 2019 and despite
the challenges of the pandemic, in the last three years we have worked through many
configuration challenges with the system, learned how to better coordinate our efforts with other
departments, and started the Phase 2 task of updating how we keep track of our work. In 2023,
we will develop a strategy to achieve full deployment of the Beehive system to update and
complete the inventory of assets, complete condition assessments, and develop a method for
understanding the criticality of the work needed. This next phase of work will remove the
paperwork and institutional memory required to uncover critical questions or prioritize efforts
around assets and infrastructure. The goal of fully implementing an asset management system is
to use data that will support BPR in making informed decisions about how best to prioritize
capital investment funds. Below is an example of information contained within an asset
management system.
Fig 3. Example of what Beehive asset management system can track, develop work orders, and report out on
When fully deployed, the Beehive asset management system will provide a dynamic approach to
understanding the assets in our portfolio. This includes where assets are located, what type of
asset is it, what has been done to it, what needs to be done and who is working on it. Below are
three examples of dashboards in development that we have created to show the type of
information Beehive is able to display and share. The first example covers assets for a park, the
second describes work events for an asset within a park, and the third describes assets across the
system that cover one type of amenity, in this case courts.
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Fig 4. Example of all the assets at North Boulder Park including the condition they are in
Fig 5. Example of an asset at North Boulder Park, the Picnic Shelter, and related work events for the facility
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Fig 6. Example of green assets, in this case trees, and work events for managing them
As we complete our inventory work over the next couple of years, we will have numbers for all
our major assets that will be organized by nine major categories (or settings) that cover:
• Entrances & Parking Areas
• Major Buildings & Structures
• Active Recreation Areas including athletic fields and court areas
• Passive Recreation Areas including plazas, turf, and picnic areas
• Playgrounds
• Pathways and Trails
• Urban Forests
• Natural Areas
• Utilities
The department also manages over 1,800 acres of land, but land does not depreciate like fixed
assets and is not considered a part of the asset portfolio within the asset management best
practices. The department also manages urban forests. Because trees increase in value over time
unlike built assets and cannot be replaced at their mature value, they are tracked as green assets
and funding for their management is still appropriated through the capital planning process. The
information Beehive will contain is critical to informing the development of the CIS plan,
providing answers to key questions for our approach to capital investment:
• What do we own?
• What is it worth?
• What condition is it in?
• What are the infrastructure funding gaps?
• What is the true lifecycle cost of an asset and when does it become inefficient to
continue maintain?
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• What are our priority assets that need maintenance, enhancement, or replacement
over the next six years?
This effort will take time and resources; and the department is ready to prioritize a Phase 2 of the
asset management initiative. This commitment to asset management best practices is one of the
key tools in developing a realistic and efficient long range capital investment plan. Below is a
graphic that shows the main differences and overlaps between an asset management system and
CIP program. The major overlap is in understanding what needs to be maintained, where we
need capital enhancement and what new facilities or infrastructure are required (new is informed
by both community planning efforts and asset management findings).
Fig 7. Diagram comparing the main functions of an asset management system
Current Focus for Capital Planning in 2023 and 2024
The purpose of this section is to provide an update on some of the projects we will be working
on in 2023-2024 related to BPR’s capital investment strategy. We are still working on the
completing workplan and will be coming back to PRAB in spring of 2023 to garner board input
and then staff will develop a comprehensive workplan for the next six years (2023-28), Here are
the categories of capital investment being coordinated:
System Planning: reviewing aspects of the system as a whole to understand how best to
manage and maintain specific categories of assets in the BPR portfolio (i.e., Historic
Places System Plan, Court Level of Service System Plan, and the Asset Management
System Plan)
Park Plans: developing a comprehensive plan for a major facility, an existing or new
park that includes concept and schematic design with cost estimating. This will inform
implementation of new assets, replacement of existing, and enhancement of aging assets,
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as well as major maintenance actions to ensure service levels are retained (i.e., Violet
Park Plan, Civic Area Plan)
Site Plans: working on design development and construction documents to build and
construct new assets and/or replace existing assets that have reached the end of their
lifecycle (i.e., North Boulder Park and Bill Bower Park)
Asset Management: enhancing, maintaining, or replacing a series of assets in our system
under a specific category (i.e., courts, athletic fields, parking lots & accessibility, etc.)
Below is a dashboard screen capture from Beehive and a map summarizing examples of our
major efforts for 2023-2024.
Fig 8. Dashboard from Beehive highlighting projects in the CIP workplan
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Page 1 of 41
CITY OF BOULDER
PARKS AND RECREATION ADVISORY BOARD HANDBOOK
(Presented by the Rules Subcommittee to PRAB
for its review at the February 25, 2008 Board meeting)
Attachment A: PRAB Handbook
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SCOPE ...................................................................................................................................................................................................... 3
RECOMMENDED READING ............................................................................................................................................................... 3
PART ONE: LEGAL CONTEXT .......................................................................................................................................................... 4
I. COLORADO REVISED STATUTES ........................................................................................................................................................ 4
A. Open Meetings ............................................................................................................................................................................ 4
II. CHARTER OF THE CITY OF BOULDER, COLORADO ......................................................................................................................... 4
A. The People of Boulder and Colorado’s Constitution ................................................................................................................. 4
B. City Council ................................................................................................................................................................................ 5
C. City Manager .............................................................................................................................................................................. 5
D. PRAB ........................................................................................................................................................................................... 6
III. CITY OF BOULDER REVISED CODE .............................................................................................................................................. 11
A. Boards and Commissions General Procedures ........................................................................................................................ 11
B. Parks and Recreation Advisory Board ..................................................................................................................................... 11
PART TWO: PRAB RULES ................................................................................................................................................................ 12
I. BASIC PRINCIPLES ............................................................................................................................................................................ 12
II. OFFICERS ........................................................................................................................................................................................ 12
III. CONDUCT ....................................................................................................................................................................................... 12
IV. COMMUNICATIONS TO CITY COUNCIL ......................................................................................................................................... 12
V. AGENDA FOR MONTHLY BUSINESS MEETINGS .............................................................................................................................. 13
A. Overview .................................................................................................................................................................................... 13
B. Notes on Specific Agenda Item Categories .............................................................................................................................. 13
C. Agenda Committee .................................................................................................................................................................... 14
D. The Parks and Recreation Department .................................................................................................................................... 14
VI. COMMON MODES OF PRAB OPERATIONS ................................................................................................................................... 15
A. PRAB Requests to the Department ........................................................................................................................................... 15
B. PRAB Informal Discussion ...................................................................................................................................................... 15
C. PRAB Action ............................................................................................................................................................................. 15
VII. RULES OF MEETING PROCEDURE ............................................................................................................................................... 15
A. Prior to a Meeting .................................................................................................................................................................... 15
B. Meeting Time and Place ........................................................................................................................................................... 15
C. Required Officers ...................................................................................................................................................................... 16
D. Duties of the Presiding Officer ................................................................................................................................................. 16
E. Rights of Members .................................................................................................................................................................... 16
F. Appeal ........................................................................................................................................................................................ 16
G. Quorum ..................................................................................................................................................................................... 17
H. Assignment of the Floor ........................................................................................................................................................... 17
I. Rules of Speaking ...................................................................................................................................................................... 17
J. The Handling of a Main Motion ............................................................................................................................................... 17
K. Other Useful Motions ............................................................................................................................................................... 19
L. Improper Motions ..................................................................................................................................................................... 19
M. Principal Rules Governing Motions ........................................................................................................................................ 19
N. Voting ........................................................................................................................................................................................ 20
VIII. OTHER MEETINGS ...................................................................................................................................................................... 20
IX. PARLIAMENTARY PROCEDURE ..................................................................................................................................................... 20
X. AMENDMENT ................................................................................................................................................................................... 20
XI. REVIEW .......................................................................................................................................................................................... 20
PART THREE: APPENDIX ................................................................................................................................................................. 22
I. BRC CODE OF CONDUCT ................................................................................................................................................................. 22
II. CITY ATTORNEY’S MARCH 30, 2007 REPORT ENTITLED “SUMMARY OF IMPORTANT LEGAL RESPONSIBILITIES FOR BOARD
MEMBERS AND COMMISSIONERS ................................................................................................................................................. 32
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SCOPE
Part one is a summary of laws relevant to the Parks and Recreation Advisory Board (PRAB); it is not intended
to be an authoritative source of the law and should be updated when laws change.
Part one is intended to provide an overview of the most important legal information relating to PRAB and to
provide the legal context in which PRAB exists. PRAB should request assistance from the City Attorney’s
Office regarding questions of legal interpretation. Note that PRAB members are bound by their oaths of office
to “… support the Constitution of the United States of America and of the State of Colorado and the Charter and
ordinances of the City of Boulder.”
Note that the actual legal text as accessed online is shown in italics in part one; any text not italicized in part one
is not part of the law. For Boulder’s Charter and the Boulder Revised Code (BRC), the text was taken from
http://www.colocode.com/boulder2/index.htm on November 19, 2007 (Note that 4-20-21 and 2-7 were taken
on January 16, 2008). For the Colorado Revised Statutes, the text was taken from
http://www2.michie.com/colorado/lpext.dll?f=templates&fn=fs-main.htm&2.0 on November 19, 2007.
Part two is intended to provide rules for PRAB to conduct its business. The rules in part two are made by
PRAB under authority granted to it by the Boulder Revised Code and are based on The Standard Code of
Parliamentary Procedure (2001). These rules are incorporated into the handbook and become effective upon an
affirmative vote of four PRAB members. Thereafter, all prior rules of PRAB in conflict therewith shall be of no
further force or effect.
Note that PRAB may not revise the statutory language quoted in parts 1 and 3, but the non-statutory rules set
forth in part 2 are subject to revision by the vote of a majority of PRAB. In addition, it is the responsibility of
PRAB to maintain this document; the department may assist PRAB by providing an annual reminder to review
and update this document, but that work is to be done by PRAB.
This document has been prepared with the assistance of the City of Boulder’s Office of the City Attorney.
RECOMMENDED READING
PRAB members are advised to read and familiarize themselves with the following:
Parks and Recreation Master Plan.
BRC 2-7 Code of Conduct. Included in part I of the appendix to this document.
City Attorney’s March 30, 2007 Report entitled “Summary of Important Legal Responsibilities for Board
Members and Commissioners” Included in part II of the appendix to this document.
The Standard Code of Parliamentary Procedure (2001).
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PART ONE: LEGAL CONTEXT
I. COLORADO REVISED STATUTES
A. Open Meetings
PRAB members are advised to read and familiarize themselves with Title 24, Article 6, Part 4, Section 202 of
the Colorado Revised Statutes, which reads in part:
(2) (a) All meetings of two or more members of any state public body at which any public
business is discussed or at which any formal action may be taken are declared to be public
meetings open to the public at all times.
(b) All meetings of a quorum or three or more members of any local public body, whichever is
fewer, at which any public business is discussed or at which any formal action may be taken are
declared to be public meetings open to the public at all times.
(c) Any meetings at which the adoption of any proposed policy, position, resolution, rule,
regulation, or formal action occurs or at which a majority or quorum of the body is in
attendance, or is expected to be in attendance, shall be held only after full and timely notice to
the public. In addition to any other means of full and timely notice, a local public body shall be
deemed to have given full and timely notice if the notice of the meeting is posted in a designated
public place within the boundaries of the local public body no less than twenty-four hours prior
to the holding of the meeting. The public place or places for posting such notice shall be
designated annually at the local public body's first regular meeting of each calendar year. The
posting shall include specific agenda information where possible.
(d) (I) Minutes of any meeting of a state public body shall be taken and promptly recorded, and
such records shall be open to public inspection. The minutes of a meeting during which an
executive session authorized under subsection (3) of this section is held shall reflect the topic of
the discussion at the executive session.
(II) Minutes of any meeting of a local public body at which the adoption of any proposed policy,
position, resolution, rule, regulation, or formal action occurs or could occur shall be taken and
promptly recorded, and such records shall be open to public inspection. The minutes of a
meeting during which an executive session authorized under subsection (4) of this section is held
shall reflect the topic of the discussion at the executive session.
(III) If elected officials use electronic mail to discuss pending legislation or other public business
among themselves, the electronic mail shall be subject to the requirements of this section.
Electronic mail communication among elected officials that does not relate to pending
legislation or other public business shall not be considered a "meeting" within the meaning of
this section.
II. CHARTER OF THE CITY OF BOULDER, COLORADO
A. The People of Boulder and Colorado’s Constitution
The preamble to the city charter reads:
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We, the people of the City of Boulder, under the authority of the constitution of the State of
Colorado, do ordain and establish this charter for the municipal government of the City of
Boulder, Colorado.
B. City Council
1. Specific duties of council
The specific duties of council are given in Article II section 12 of the city charter, which reads:
The council shall choose and appoint a city manager, a city attorney, a police magistrate, and an
auditor for such independent audits as are in this charter required or authorized to be made by
order of the council, and such advisory boards or commissions as may be desired or are
elsewhere provided for by this charter; but no member of the council shall act or be chosen as
manager.
The council shall cause to be made at least annually, and at such other times as it may deem
necessary, an audit of all financial accounts of the city.
The council shall consider all recommendations and reports from time to time presented by the
city manager, or by any of the advisory commissions or the departments of planning and parks,
and shall accept or reject the same within thirty days from the date of filing thereof with the
council.
2. Powers expressly withheld from council
Powers expressly withheld from council are given in Article II section 13 of the city charter, which reads:
Except for purposes of inquiry, the council shall deal with the administrative service solely and
directly through the city manager, and neither council, its members, nor committees shall either
dictate the appointment, retention or removal or direct or interfere with the work of any officer
or employee under the city manager. Any such dictation, attempted direction, or interference on
the part of any member of the council shall be punishable in the manner deemed appropriate by
the other members of the council, which may include removal from office. (Amended by Ord. No.
6008 (1998), § 2, adopted by electorate on November 3, 1998. Further amended by Ord. No.
6009 (1998), § 2, adopted by electorate on November 3, 1998.)
C. City Manager
1. The city manager defined
Boulder Revised Code 1-2-1(b) states:
"City manager" means the city manager of the City of Boulder, Colorado or the manager's authorized
representative.
2. The city manager’s role
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The city manager’s role is given in Article V section 63 of the city charter, which reads, in part:
The city manager shall be the chief executive and administrative officer of the city. As such, the
manager shall possess, have, and exercise all the executive and administrative powers vested in
the city.
3. The city manager’s powers and duties
The city manager’s powers and duties are given in Article V section 64 of the city charter. Subsection c of
Article V section 64 reads:
To exercise control and supervision over all departments herein created, except as otherwise in
this charter provided;
4. The city manager and the department of parks and recreation
The relationship between the department of parks and recreation and the city manager as well as the functions
of the department of parks and recreation are given in Article XI section 155 of the city charter, which
reads:
Under the direction, supervision and control of the city manager, the department of parks and
recreation:
(a) Shall supervise, administer, and maintain all park property and recreation facilities.
(b) Shall supervise, administer, and execute all park and recreation programs, plans, functions,
and activities of the city.
(c) Shall prepare and submit to the parks and recreation advisory board written
recommendations on those matters where this article requires a recommendation from said
board prior to council or department action.
(d) May, at the request of the parks and recreation advisory board, prepare and submit to the
board information and recommendations on such park and recreation matters as are not
provided for by (c) above.
(e) May request advice on any park and recreation matter from the parks and recreation
advisory board. (Added by Ord. No. 2392 (1961), § 1, adopted by electorate on January 31,
1961.)
D. PRAB
1. General provisions
General provisions for advisory commissions are given in Article IX, section 130 of the city charter, which
reads:
At any time after the organization of the council elected under the provisions of this charter, the
council by ordinance may create and provide for such advisory commissions as it may deem
advisable; provided, that a library commission is hereby created, and the council shall, within
ninety days from its organization, appoint the members thereof.
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Each of such commissions, including the library commission, shall be composed of five electors,
appointed by the council, not all of one sex, well known for their ability, probity, public spirit,
and particular fitness to serve on such respective commissions. When first constituted, the
council shall designate the terms for which each member is appointed so that the term of one
commissioner shall expire on December 31 of each year; and thereafter the council shall by
March of each year appoint one member to serve for a term of five years. The council shall have
the power to remove any commissioner for non-attendance to duties or for cause. All vacancies
shall be filled by the council. When first appointed and annually thereafter following the
council's appointment of the commissioner, each commission shall organize by appointing a
chair, a vice-chair, and a secretary; all commissioners shall serve without compensation, but the
secretary of any commission, if not a member, may receive a salary to be fixed by the council;
any commission shall have power to make rules for the conduct of its business. All
commissioners shall serve until their successors are appointed.
All commissions shall hold regular monthly meetings. Special meetings may be called at any
time upon due notice by three members. Three members shall constitute a quorum, and the
affirmative vote of at least three members shall be necessary to authorize any action by the
commission.
All commissions shall keep accounts and records of their respective transactions, and at the end
of each quarter or more often, if requested by the council, and at the end of each fiscal year shall
furnish to the council a detailed report of receipts and expenditures and a statement of other
business transacted.
The chair of a commission shall preside at the meetings thereof and sign, execute, acknowledge,
and deliver for the commission all contracts and writings of every kind required or authorized to
be signed or delivered by the commission. The signature of the chair shall be attested by the
secretary.
The commissions shall have the right to the floor of the council to speak on plans and
expenditures proposed or to appeal for a decision in a failure to agree with another commission
or the manager.
Wherever there shall be suitable accommodations in the city building, the offices of the
commissions shall be maintained there. (Amended by Ord. No. 6007 (1998), § 2, adopted by
electorate on November 3, 1998.)*
2. Creation of PRAB
PRAB is created by Article XI, section 157 of the city charter, which reads:
There shall be a parks and recreation advisory board consisting of seven members appointed by
the city council. The members of the board shall be residents of the city, shall not hold any other
office in the city, and shall serve without pay. The council may appoint such ex-officio members
to the board for such terms as it deems advisable. (Added by Ord. No. 2392 (1961), § 1, adopted
by electorate on January 31, 1961.)
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3. PRAB office
PRAB term of office, removal, and vacancy are given by Article XI, section 158 of the city charter, which
reads:
The term of each board member shall be five years, provided, however, that in appointing the
original members of the board, the city council shall designate one member to serve until
December 31, 1961, two members to serve until December 31, 1962, one member to serve until
December 31, 1963, two members to serve until December 31, 1964, and one member to serve
until December 31, 1965.
The council may remove any board member who displays lack of interest or who fails to attend
board meetings for three consecutive months without formal leave of absence.
The council shall fill all vacancies. (Added by Ord. No. 2392 (1961), § 1, adopted by electorate
on January 31, 1961.)
4. Organization and procedure of PRAB
Organization and procedure of PRAB is given by Article XI, section 159 of the city charter, which reads:
The board shall choose a chair and a secretary. The director of parks and recreation may be
designated as secretary by the board.
The board shall have regular meetings once a month. Special meetings may be called at any time
by three members of the board upon giving of at least twenty-four hours' notice of said special
meeting to the board members.
Four members of the board shall constitute a quorum. Unless otherwise expressly provided
herein, an affirmative vote of a majority of the members present shall be necessary to authorize
any action by the board.
The board shall keep minutes and records of its meetings and transactions.
Except for such provisions as are herein expressly provided for, the board shall have power to
make reasonable rules for the conduct of its business. (Added by Ord. No. 2392 (1961), § 1,
adopted by electorate on January 31, 1961.)*
5. Functions of PRAB
Functions of PRAB are given by Article XI, section 160 of the city charter, which reads:
The parks and recreation advisory board shall not perform any administrative functions unless
expressly provided in this charter. The board:
(a) Shall make recommendations to the council concerning the disposal of park lands pursuant
to Section 162 of this charter.
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(b) Shall make recommendations to the council concerning any expenditure or appropriation
from the permanent park and recreation fund pursuant to Section 161 of this charter.
(c) Shall make recommendations to the council concerning the grant or denial of any license or
permit in or on park lands, pursuant to Section 164 of this charter.
(d) Shall review the city manager's proposed annual budget as it relates to park and recreation
matters and submit its recommendations concerning said budget to the council.
(e) May, at the request of the council or the department of parks and recreation, prepare and
submit to the council, city manager, or the department recommendations on such park and
recreation matters as are not provided for by paragraphs (a), (b), (c) and (d) above.
(f) May request information and recommendations from the department pursuant to the
provisions of Section 155(d) above.
The city council and the parks and recreation department shall not act on any of the matters set
forth in paragraphs (a), (b), (c) and (d) above without securing a recommendation from the
board as above provided; however, the council and department may act on the matters set forth
in paragraphs (c) and (d) above without a board recommendation if the board fails to submit its
recommendation to the council within thirty days after request therefor is made by the council.
The board's recommendation shall not be binding upon the city council unless expressly
provided by this charter. (Added by Ord. No. 2392 (1961), § 1, adopted by electorate on January
31, 1961.)
6. Permanent park and recreation fund
The permanent park and recreation fund is created and defined by Article XI, section 161 of the city charter,
which reads:
There shall be a permanent park and recreation fund. This fund shall consist of the following:
(a) An annual levy of nine-tenths of one mill on each dollar of assessed valuation of all taxable
property within the city.
(b) Gifts and donations to the fund.
(c) Proceeds of the sale of any park or recreation property or equipment whether real, personal,
or mixed.
(d) Appropriations made to the fund by the city council.
Expenditures from this fund shall be made only upon the favorable recommendation of the parks
and recreation advisory board and appropriation by the council. Said fund shall not be used for
any purpose other than the acquisition of park land or the permanent improvement of park and
recreation facilities.
Any portion of the fund remaining unexpended at the end of any fiscal year shall not in any event
be converted into the general fund nor be subject to appropriation for general purposes. Money
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appropriated from the fund which is not expended in whole or in part shall be returned to the
fund and shall not be subject to appropriation for general purposes. Money appropriated from
the general fund for park or recreational purposes which is not expended for the purpose
designated shall be returned to the general fund. (Added by Ord. No. 2392 (1961), § 1, adopted
by electorate on January 31, 1961.)
7. Disposal of park properties
The disposal of park properties is governed by Article XI, section 162 of the city charter, which reads:
Park lands may be disposed of by the city council, but only upon the affirmative vote of at least
four members of the parks and recreation advisory board. An advisory recommendation, which
shall not be binding on the council, shall be obtained from the planning board prior to the
disposition or lease of park lands. (Added by Ord. No. 2392 (1961), § 1, adopted by electorate
on January 31, 1961. Amended by Ord. No. 5574 (1993), § 1, adopted by electorate on
November 2, 1993.)
8. Acquisition of park land
The acquisition of park land is governed by Article XI, section 163 of the city charter, which reads:
The council may acquire park land for the city, provided that the council shall not make any
expenditure of money for the purpose of acquiring park lands without first securing a
recommendation from the planning board and the parks and recreation advisory board.
Provided, however, that the council can act without such recommendations if said boards fail to
submit their recommendation to the council within thirty days after request therefor is made by
the council. The recommendations of the said boards shall not be binding on the council except
that the recommendation of the parks and recreation advisory board concerning expenditures
from the permanent park and recreation fund shall be binding on the council pursuant to Section
161 of this charter. (Added by Ord. No. 2392 (1961), § 1, adopted by electorate on January 31,
1961.)
9. Franchises, leases, permits, and licenses in parks
Franchises, leases, permits, and licenses in parks are governed by Article XI, section 164 of the city charter,
which reads:
No franchise shall ever be granted in or on park lands except on vote of the qualified tax-paying
electors in accordance with the provisions of article VIII of the charter of the city.
The council may by motion grant leases, permits, or licenses in or on park lands, but only upon
the affirmative vote of at least four members of the parks and recreation advisory board. The
council may, by ordinance, delegate all or any part of this authority to the parks and recreation
advisory board to approve such leases, permits, or licenses. The parks and recreation advisory
board may, by motion, subdelegate all or any part of its delegated authority to approve such
leases, permits, or licenses to the city manager. The city manager may enter into standard
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commercial licensing agreements for automatic food vending machines on park lands without
the approval of the parks and recreation advisory board or the council.
The term of any license or permit granted hereunder shall not exceed five years, and any such
license or permit so granted shall be revocable by the council at its pleasure at any time,
whether such right to revoke be expressly reserved in such permit or license. (Added by Ord. No.
2392 (1961), § 1, adopted by electorate on January 31, 1961. Amended by Ord. No. 5574 (1993),
§ 1, adopted by electorate on November 2, 1993.)
III. CITY OF BOULDER REVISED CODE
A. Boards and Commissions General Procedures
1. Rules of meeting procedure
Title 2, chapter 3, section 1, subsection b, part 4 states the boards and commissions shall:
Conduct its meetings under Robert's Rules Of Order, Newly Revised (1981), unless the board or
commission adopts other rules of meeting procedure
2. Open meetings
Title 2, chapter 3, section 1, subsection b, part 5 states the boards and commissions shall:
Hold all meetings open to the public, after full and timely notice of date, time, place, and subject
matter of the meeting, and provide an opportunity for public comment at the meeting
3. Procedures
Title 2, chapter 3, section 1, subsection d, part 3 states the boards and commissions are authorized to:
Adopt rules interpreting its legislative duties under this code and establishing procedures in aid
of its functions
4. Voting
Title 2, chapter 3, section 1, subsection d, part f states:
If a member of a city board or commission is present at a meeting and refuses to vote, the
member's vote shall be recorded in the affirmative. No member is excused from voting except on
approving minutes of a meeting that the member did not attend or on a matter creating a conflict
of interest under chapter 2-7, "Code Of Conduct," B.R.C. 1981, or on consideration of such
member's conduct in the business of the board or commission.
B. Parks and Recreation Advisory Board
1. Subpoenas
Title 2, chapter 3, section 10, subsection e, states:
The board is not authorized to issue subpoenas.
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PART TWO: PRAB RULES
I. BASIC PRINCIPLES
The basic principles of parliamentary procedure that PRAB shall strive to uphold:
A. Rules should facilitate the transaction of business and promote cooperation and harmony.
B. All members are equal; officers only have additional duties.
C. The majority vote decides.
D. The rights of the minority must be protected.
E. Full and free discussion of propositions presented for decision is a right of members; balanced with the
chair’s duty to move thru the agenda in addressing time management issues.
F. Every member has the right to comprehend the meaning of the motion before PRAB and its effect.
G. Meetings should be characterized by fairness and good faith.
II. OFFICERS
PRAB shall have a chair, a vice-chair, and a secretary. The chair and vice-chair shall be PRAB members
chosen by majority vote of PRAB at its first business meeting following the annual City Council board
appointments. PRAB may by an affirmative vote of four members at any business meeting remove the chair or
vice-chair from office. Should a vacancy arise in the office of either the chair or vice-chair, PRAB shall fill the
vacancy by majority vote. The secretary shall be a staff member designated either by the city manager or the
city manager’s authorized representative. The secretary does not have authority to vote.
III. CONDUCT
PRAB members shall
A. act on behalf of PRAB only when delegated such authority by a majority vote of PRAB and report back
to PRAB on the exercise of the charge (Note that PRAB members participating in working groups act as
representatives of PRAB but not as spokespersons for PRAB)
B. clearly identify whether they are speaking on behalf of PRAB or speaking for themselves when speaking
in public forums other than PRAB meetings, including but not limited to city council meetings
C. recuse themselves from matters raising a conflict of interest, and not speak on behalf of their own
interests as to that particular matter before city council
D. conduct themselves in all interactions with one another, city council, city staff, and the public in a
professional and courteous manner
E. make all reasonable efforts to avoid “surprise” by being proactive and open in all communications
IV. COMMUNICATIONS TO CITY COUNCIL
The complete text of any motion presented to City Council shall be in writing. PRAB may designate a
PRAB member to present the motion to City Council during the period of public comment or, if
requested by the City Council, the City Manager, or the Department, during the Council meeting. The
PRAB member authorized to present the motion shall provide written copies of the motion to City
Council and request to read the complete text of the motion to City Council.
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V. AGENDA FOR MONTHLY BUSINESS MEETINGS
A. Overview
The agenda is generally set by the department as most matters arise from the department for consideration by
PRAB under provisions of Article XI, Sections 155(c), (d), and (e). Items arising from PRAB for
consideration by the department under Article XI, Section 160(f) may be placed on the agenda as described
below in B. Other items on which a PRAB member desires discussion should be placed on the agenda under
‘matters from board members’ or ‘matters for discussion/information.’
B. Notes on Specific Agenda Item Categories
1. Public Comment
Following public comments, the chair shall recognize a representative of the Department, usually the
Director, to provide the Department an opportunity to respond directly to the public.
2. Items for Action
(a) Items for action are those items for which a motion and vote are anticipated. Usually, such items
should have been discussed at a previous PRAB meeting under ‘items for
discussion/information’. Items on which the Department and/or Council requests PRAB advice
shall generally be presented initially under ‘items for discussion/information’ and then at the
following business meeting under ‘items for action.’
(b) Items for action are usually preceded by a staff presentation regarding the item and the question or
questions for which the staff is seeking the advice of PRAB. The staff presentation may be
followed by questions from PRAB.
(c) Public hearings are discretionary for PRAB. However, in the interests of openness and
accountability, PRAB shall hold public hearings prior to action on items arising under sections
160 (a) – (d) and prior to action on any item for which the PRAB determines that the period of
public comment may not have provided the public an appropriate opportunity for input.
(d) PRAB usually has a period of informal discussion following the close of the public hearing, which
should result in a motion.
(e) PRAB then debates the motion.
(f) PRAB then votes on the motion. The exact wording of the final motion as voted upon shall appear in
the minutes.
3. Matters from the Department
Matters from the Department may include a summary of upcoming work, events, and/or collaborative
activities of which the staff would like PRAB to be aware.
4. Matters from Board Members
Matters from Board members may include ideas regarding information or recommendations to request
from the department, reports from individual PRAB members on sub-committees or other PRAB-
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related activities to which less than a quorum of PRAB has been assigned, or PRAB-related
activities which are not agenda items that an individual PRAB member wishes to bring to the
attention of PRAB as a whole.
C. Agenda Committee
1. The agenda committee is composed of the PRAB chair, PRAB vice-chair, Parks and Recreation
Department Director, and any pertinent staff. In the event that the PRAB chair or PRAB vice-chair can
not attend an agenda committee meeting, another PRAB member can be appointed as a pro tem agenda
committee member by the PRAB member who can not attend.
2. The agenda committee usually meets on a weekday during the week of the monthly PRAB meeting.
3. The agenda committee receives a draft agenda from the Parks and Recreation Department Director, which
reflects charter-mandated actions and items on which the Department and/or Council requests PRAB
advice as defined by Article XI, Sections 160 through 164 inclusive of the city charter.
4. The agenda committee carries out only the agenda setting function on behalf of PRAB as a whole;
therefore, it shall not use the agenda committee meeting to advance the PRAB member’s own agendas
or points of view or to limit or constrain other points of view.
5. The agenda committee determines how to present each item to PRAB, works to balance content with
time, and allocates time for each item (times assigned are guidelines to be monitored by the chair during
the board meeting).
D. The Parks and Recreation Department
1. The Parks and Recreation Department prepares packets containing the agenda and any other pertinent
documents for each PRAB meeting. PRAB materials should clearly articulate the subject or question on
which PRAB’s advice is sought, or the reason why the matter is being brought to the attention of the
PRAB. PRAB materials should allow PRAB members to prepare appropriately prior to the meeting,
such as formulating any pertinent motion, discussion points, and questions.
2. In order for PRAB members to have the most informed discussion of the issues before it, the Parks and
Recreation Department is requested to provide PRAB with objective information. When analyzing
alternative courses of action, it is requested that the Department present and analyze a range of realistic
alternatives, including those proposed by PRAB members and members of the public, and present the
Department’s preferred alternative.
3. The Parks and Recreation Department distributes the packets to PRAB members, usually on the
Wednesday prior to a Monday board meeting.
4. The Parks and Recreation Department provides notice of PRAB meetings as required by BRC 2-3-
1(b)(5).
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CITY OF BOULDER
PARKS AND RECREATION ADVISORY BOARD HANDBOOK
(Presented by the Rules Subcommittee to PRAB
for its review at the February 25, 2008 Board meeting)
Attachment A: PRAB Handbook
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SCOPE ...................................................................................................................................................................................................... 3
RECOMMENDED READING ............................................................................................................................................................... 3
PART ONE: LEGAL CONTEXT .......................................................................................................................................................... 4
I. COLORADO REVISED STATUTES ........................................................................................................................................................ 4
A. Open Meetings ............................................................................................................................................................................ 4
II. CHARTER OF THE CITY OF BOULDER, COLORADO ......................................................................................................................... 4
A. The People of Boulder and Colorado’s Constitution ................................................................................................................. 4
B. City Council ................................................................................................................................................................................ 5
C. City Manager .............................................................................................................................................................................. 5
D. PRAB ........................................................................................................................................................................................... 6
III. CITY OF BOULDER REVISED CODE .............................................................................................................................................. 11
A. Boards and Commissions General Procedures ........................................................................................................................ 11
B. Parks and Recreation Advisory Board ..................................................................................................................................... 11
PART TWO: PRAB RULES ................................................................................................................................................................ 12
I. BASIC PRINCIPLES ............................................................................................................................................................................ 12
II. OFFICERS ........................................................................................................................................................................................ 12
III. CONDUCT ....................................................................................................................................................................................... 12
IV. COMMUNICATIONS TO CITY COUNCIL ......................................................................................................................................... 12
V. AGENDA FOR MONTHLY BUSINESS MEETINGS .............................................................................................................................. 13
A. Overview .................................................................................................................................................................................... 13
B. Notes on Specific Agenda Item Categories .............................................................................................................................. 13
C. Agenda Committee .................................................................................................................................................................... 14
D. The Parks and Recreation Department .................................................................................................................................... 14
VI. COMMON MODES OF PRAB OPERATIONS ................................................................................................................................... 15
A. PRAB Requests to the Department ........................................................................................................................................... 15
B. PRAB Informal Discussion ...................................................................................................................................................... 15
C. PRAB Action ............................................................................................................................................................................. 15
VII. RULES OF MEETING PROCEDURE ............................................................................................................................................... 15
A. Prior to a Meeting .................................................................................................................................................................... 15
B. Meeting Time and Place ........................................................................................................................................................... 15
C. Required Officers ...................................................................................................................................................................... 16
D. Duties of the Presiding Officer ................................................................................................................................................. 16
E. Rights of Members .................................................................................................................................................................... 16
F. Appeal ........................................................................................................................................................................................ 16
G. Quorum ..................................................................................................................................................................................... 17
H. Assignment of the Floor ........................................................................................................................................................... 17
I. Rules of Speaking ...................................................................................................................................................................... 17
J. The Handling of a Main Motion ............................................................................................................................................... 17
K. Other Useful Motions ............................................................................................................................................................... 19
L. Improper Motions ..................................................................................................................................................................... 19
M. Principal Rules Governing Motions ........................................................................................................................................ 19
N. Voting ........................................................................................................................................................................................ 20
VIII. OTHER MEETINGS ...................................................................................................................................................................... 20
IX. PARLIAMENTARY PROCEDURE ..................................................................................................................................................... 20
X. AMENDMENT ................................................................................................................................................................................... 20
XI. REVIEW .......................................................................................................................................................................................... 20
PART THREE: APPENDIX ................................................................................................................................................................. 22
I. BRC CODE OF CONDUCT ................................................................................................................................................................. 22
II. CITY ATTORNEY’S MARCH 30, 2007 REPORT ENTITLED “SUMMARY OF IMPORTANT LEGAL RESPONSIBILITIES FOR BOARD
MEMBERS AND COMMISSIONERS ................................................................................................................................................. 32
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SCOPE
Part one is a summary of laws relevant to the Parks and Recreation Advisory Board (PRAB); it is not intended
to be an authoritative source of the law and should be updated when laws change.
Part one is intended to provide an overview of the most important legal information relating to PRAB and to
provide the legal context in which PRAB exists. PRAB should request assistance from the City Attorney’s
Office regarding questions of legal interpretation. Note that PRAB members are bound by their oaths of office
to “… support the Constitution of the United States of America and of the State of Colorado and the Charter and
ordinances of the City of Boulder.”
Note that the actual legal text as accessed online is shown in italics in part one; any text not italicized in part one
is not part of the law. For Boulder’s Charter and the Boulder Revised Code (BRC), the text was taken from
http://www.colocode.com/boulder2/index.htm on November 19, 2007 (Note that 4-20-21 and 2-7 were taken
on January 16, 2008). For the Colorado Revised Statutes, the text was taken from
http://www2.michie.com/colorado/lpext.dll?f=templates&fn=fs-main.htm&2.0 on November 19, 2007.
Part two is intended to provide rules for PRAB to conduct its business. The rules in part two are made by
PRAB under authority granted to it by the Boulder Revised Code and are based on The Standard Code of
Parliamentary Procedure (2001). These rules are incorporated into the handbook and become effective upon an
affirmative vote of four PRAB members. Thereafter, all prior rules of PRAB in conflict therewith shall be of no
further force or effect.
Note that PRAB may not revise the statutory language quoted in parts 1 and 3, but the non-statutory rules set
forth in part 2 are subject to revision by the vote of a majority of PRAB. In addition, it is the responsibility of
PRAB to maintain this document; the department may assist PRAB by providing an annual reminder to review
and update this document, but that work is to be done by PRAB.
This document has been prepared with the assistance of the City of Boulder’s Office of the City Attorney.
RECOMMENDED READING
PRAB members are advised to read and familiarize themselves with the following:
Parks and Recreation Master Plan.
BRC 2-7 Code of Conduct. Included in part I of the appendix to this document.
City Attorney’s March 30, 2007 Report entitled “Summary of Important Legal Responsibilities for Board
Members and Commissioners” Included in part II of the appendix to this document.
The Standard Code of Parliamentary Procedure (2001).
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PART ONE: LEGAL CONTEXT
I. COLORADO REVISED STATUTES
A. Open Meetings
PRAB members are advised to read and familiarize themselves with Title 24, Article 6, Part 4, Section 202 of
the Colorado Revised Statutes, which reads in part:
(2) (a) All meetings of two or more members of any state public body at which any public
business is discussed or at which any formal action may be taken are declared to be public
meetings open to the public at all times.
(b) All meetings of a quorum or three or more members of any local public body, whichever is
fewer, at which any public business is discussed or at which any formal action may be taken are
declared to be public meetings open to the public at all times.
(c) Any meetings at which the adoption of any proposed policy, position, resolution, rule,
regulation, or formal action occurs or at which a majority or quorum of the body is in
attendance, or is expected to be in attendance, shall be held only after full and timely notice to
the public. In addition to any other means of full and timely notice, a local public body shall be
deemed to have given full and timely notice if the notice of the meeting is posted in a designated
public place within the boundaries of the local public body no less than twenty-four hours prior
to the holding of the meeting. The public place or places for posting such notice shall be
designated annually at the local public body's first regular meeting of each calendar year. The
posting shall include specific agenda information where possible.
(d) (I) Minutes of any meeting of a state public body shall be taken and promptly recorded, and
such records shall be open to public inspection. The minutes of a meeting during which an
executive session authorized under subsection (3) of this section is held shall reflect the topic of
the discussion at the executive session.
(II) Minutes of any meeting of a local public body at which the adoption of any proposed policy,
position, resolution, rule, regulation, or formal action occurs or could occur shall be taken and
promptly recorded, and such records shall be open to public inspection. The minutes of a
meeting during which an executive session authorized under subsection (4) of this section is held
shall reflect the topic of the discussion at the executive session.
(III) If elected officials use electronic mail to discuss pending legislation or other public business
among themselves, the electronic mail shall be subject to the requirements of this section.
Electronic mail communication among elected officials that does not relate to pending
legislation or other public business shall not be considered a "meeting" within the meaning of
this section.
II. CHARTER OF THE CITY OF BOULDER, COLORADO
A. The People of Boulder and Colorado’s Constitution
The preamble to the city charter reads:
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We, the people of the City of Boulder, under the authority of the constitution of the State of
Colorado, do ordain and establish this charter for the municipal government of the City of
Boulder, Colorado.
B. City Council
1. Specific duties of council
The specific duties of council are given in Article II section 12 of the city charter, which reads:
The council shall choose and appoint a city manager, a city attorney, a police magistrate, and an
auditor for such independent audits as are in this charter required or authorized to be made by
order of the council, and such advisory boards or commissions as may be desired or are
elsewhere provided for by this charter; but no member of the council shall act or be chosen as
manager.
The council shall cause to be made at least annually, and at such other times as it may deem
necessary, an audit of all financial accounts of the city.
The council shall consider all recommendations and reports from time to time presented by the
city manager, or by any of the advisory commissions or the departments of planning and parks,
and shall accept or reject the same within thirty days from the date of filing thereof with the
council.
2. Powers expressly withheld from council
Powers expressly withheld from council are given in Article II section 13 of the city charter, which reads:
Except for purposes of inquiry, the council shall deal with the administrative service solely and
directly through the city manager, and neither council, its members, nor committees shall either
dictate the appointment, retention or removal or direct or interfere with the work of any officer
or employee under the city manager. Any such dictation, attempted direction, or interference on
the part of any member of the council shall be punishable in the manner deemed appropriate by
the other members of the council, which may include removal from office. (Amended by Ord. No.
6008 (1998), § 2, adopted by electorate on November 3, 1998. Further amended by Ord. No.
6009 (1998), § 2, adopted by electorate on November 3, 1998.)
C. City Manager
1. The city manager defined
Boulder Revised Code 1-2-1(b) states:
"City manager" means the city manager of the City of Boulder, Colorado or the manager's authorized
representative.
2. The city manager’s role
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The city manager’s role is given in Article V section 63 of the city charter, which reads, in part:
The city manager shall be the chief executive and administrative officer of the city. As such, the
manager shall possess, have, and exercise all the executive and administrative powers vested in
the city.
3. The city manager’s powers and duties
The city manager’s powers and duties are given in Article V section 64 of the city charter. Subsection c of
Article V section 64 reads:
To exercise control and supervision over all departments herein created, except as otherwise in
this charter provided;
4. The city manager and the department of parks and recreation
The relationship between the department of parks and recreation and the city manager as well as the functions
of the department of parks and recreation are given in Article XI section 155 of the city charter, which
reads:
Under the direction, supervision and control of the city manager, the department of parks and
recreation:
(a) Shall supervise, administer, and maintain all park property and recreation facilities.
(b) Shall supervise, administer, and execute all park and recreation programs, plans, functions,
and activities of the city.
(c) Shall prepare and submit to the parks and recreation advisory board written
recommendations on those matters where this article requires a recommendation from said
board prior to council or department action.
(d) May, at the request of the parks and recreation advisory board, prepare and submit to the
board information and recommendations on such park and recreation matters as are not
provided for by (c) above.
(e) May request advice on any park and recreation matter from the parks and recreation
advisory board. (Added by Ord. No. 2392 (1961), § 1, adopted by electorate on January 31,
1961.)
D. PRAB
1. General provisions
General provisions for advisory commissions are given in Article IX, section 130 of the city charter, which
reads:
At any time after the organization of the council elected under the provisions of this charter, the
council by ordinance may create and provide for such advisory commissions as it may deem
advisable; provided, that a library commission is hereby created, and the council shall, within
ninety days from its organization, appoint the members thereof.
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Each of such commissions, including the library commission, shall be composed of five electors,
appointed by the council, not all of one sex, well known for their ability, probity, public spirit,
and particular fitness to serve on such respective commissions. When first constituted, the
council shall designate the terms for which each member is appointed so that the term of one
commissioner shall expire on December 31 of each year; and thereafter the council shall by
March of each year appoint one member to serve for a term of five years. The council shall have
the power to remove any commissioner for non-attendance to duties or for cause. All vacancies
shall be filled by the council. When first appointed and annually thereafter following the
council's appointment of the commissioner, each commission shall organize by appointing a
chair, a vice-chair, and a secretary; all commissioners shall serve without compensation, but the
secretary of any commission, if not a member, may receive a salary to be fixed by the council;
any commission shall have power to make rules for the conduct of its business. All
commissioners shall serve until their successors are appointed.
All commissions shall hold regular monthly meetings. Special meetings may be called at any
time upon due notice by three members. Three members shall constitute a quorum, and the
affirmative vote of at least three members shall be necessary to authorize any action by the
commission.
All commissions shall keep accounts and records of their respective transactions, and at the end
of each quarter or more often, if requested by the council, and at the end of each fiscal year shall
furnish to the council a detailed report of receipts and expenditures and a statement of other
business transacted.
The chair of a commission shall preside at the meetings thereof and sign, execute, acknowledge,
and deliver for the commission all contracts and writings of every kind required or authorized to
be signed or delivered by the commission. The signature of the chair shall be attested by the
secretary.
The commissions shall have the right to the floor of the council to speak on plans and
expenditures proposed or to appeal for a decision in a failure to agree with another commission
or the manager.
Wherever there shall be suitable accommodations in the city building, the offices of the
commissions shall be maintained there. (Amended by Ord. No. 6007 (1998), § 2, adopted by
electorate on November 3, 1998.)*
2. Creation of PRAB
PRAB is created by Article XI, section 157 of the city charter, which reads:
There shall be a parks and recreation advisory board consisting of seven members appointed by
the city council. The members of the board shall be residents of the city, shall not hold any other
office in the city, and shall serve without pay. The council may appoint such ex-officio members
to the board for such terms as it deems advisable. (Added by Ord. No. 2392 (1961), § 1, adopted
by electorate on January 31, 1961.)
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3. PRAB office
PRAB term of office, removal, and vacancy are given by Article XI, section 158 of the city charter, which
reads:
The term of each board member shall be five years, provided, however, that in appointing the
original members of the board, the city council shall designate one member to serve until
December 31, 1961, two members to serve until December 31, 1962, one member to serve until
December 31, 1963, two members to serve until December 31, 1964, and one member to serve
until December 31, 1965.
The council may remove any board member who displays lack of interest or who fails to attend
board meetings for three consecutive months without formal leave of absence.
The council shall fill all vacancies. (Added by Ord. No. 2392 (1961), § 1, adopted by electorate
on January 31, 1961.)
4. Organization and procedure of PRAB
Organization and procedure of PRAB is given by Article XI, section 159 of the city charter, which reads:
The board shall choose a chair and a secretary. The director of parks and recreation may be
designated as secretary by the board.
The board shall have regular meetings once a month. Special meetings may be called at any time
by three members of the board upon giving of at least twenty-four hours' notice of said special
meeting to the board members.
Four members of the board shall constitute a quorum. Unless otherwise expressly provided
herein, an affirmative vote of a majority of the members present shall be necessary to authorize
any action by the board.
The board shall keep minutes and records of its meetings and transactions.
Except for such provisions as are herein expressly provided for, the board shall have power to
make reasonable rules for the conduct of its business. (Added by Ord. No. 2392 (1961), § 1,
adopted by electorate on January 31, 1961.)*
5. Functions of PRAB
Functions of PRAB are given by Article XI, section 160 of the city charter, which reads:
The parks and recreation advisory board shall not perform any administrative functions unless
expressly provided in this charter. The board:
(a) Shall make recommendations to the council concerning the disposal of park lands pursuant
to Section 162 of this charter.
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(b) Shall make recommendations to the council concerning any expenditure or appropriation
from the permanent park and recreation fund pursuant to Section 161 of this charter.
(c) Shall make recommendations to the council concerning the grant or denial of any license or
permit in or on park lands, pursuant to Section 164 of this charter.
(d) Shall review the city manager's proposed annual budget as it relates to park and recreation
matters and submit its recommendations concerning said budget to the council.
(e) May, at the request of the council or the department of parks and recreation, prepare and
submit to the council, city manager, or the department recommendations on such park and
recreation matters as are not provided for by paragraphs (a), (b), (c) and (d) above.
(f) May request information and recommendations from the department pursuant to the
provisions of Section 155(d) above.
The city council and the parks and recreation department shall not act on any of the matters set
forth in paragraphs (a), (b), (c) and (d) above without securing a recommendation from the
board as above provided; however, the council and department may act on the matters set forth
in paragraphs (c) and (d) above without a board recommendation if the board fails to submit its
recommendation to the council within thirty days after request therefor is made by the council.
The board's recommendation shall not be binding upon the city council unless expressly
provided by this charter. (Added by Ord. No. 2392 (1961), § 1, adopted by electorate on January
31, 1961.)
6. Permanent park and recreation fund
The permanent park and recreation fund is created and defined by Article XI, section 161 of the city charter,
which reads:
There shall be a permanent park and recreation fund. This fund shall consist of the following:
(a) An annual levy of nine-tenths of one mill on each dollar of assessed valuation of all taxable
property within the city.
(b) Gifts and donations to the fund.
(c) Proceeds of the sale of any park or recreation property or equipment whether real, personal,
or mixed.
(d) Appropriations made to the fund by the city council.
Expenditures from this fund shall be made only upon the favorable recommendation of the parks
and recreation advisory board and appropriation by the council. Said fund shall not be used for
any purpose other than the acquisition of park land or the permanent improvement of park and
recreation facilities.
Any portion of the fund remaining unexpended at the end of any fiscal year shall not in any event
be converted into the general fund nor be subject to appropriation for general purposes. Money
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appropriated from the fund which is not expended in whole or in part shall be returned to the
fund and shall not be subject to appropriation for general purposes. Money appropriated from
the general fund for park or recreational purposes which is not expended for the purpose
designated shall be returned to the general fund. (Added by Ord. No. 2392 (1961), § 1, adopted
by electorate on January 31, 1961.)
7. Disposal of park properties
The disposal of park properties is governed by Article XI, section 162 of the city charter, which reads:
Park lands may be disposed of by the city council, but only upon the affirmative vote of at least
four members of the parks and recreation advisory board. An advisory recommendation, which
shall not be binding on the council, shall be obtained from the planning board prior to the
disposition or lease of park lands. (Added by Ord. No. 2392 (1961), § 1, adopted by electorate
on January 31, 1961. Amended by Ord. No. 5574 (1993), § 1, adopted by electorate on
November 2, 1993.)
8. Acquisition of park land
The acquisition of park land is governed by Article XI, section 163 of the city charter, which reads:
The council may acquire park land for the city, provided that the council shall not make any
expenditure of money for the purpose of acquiring park lands without first securing a
recommendation from the planning board and the parks and recreation advisory board.
Provided, however, that the council can act without such recommendations if said boards fail to
submit their recommendation to the council within thirty days after request therefor is made by
the council. The recommendations of the said boards shall not be binding on the council except
that the recommendation of the parks and recreation advisory board concerning expenditures
from the permanent park and recreation fund shall be binding on the council pursuant to Section
161 of this charter. (Added by Ord. No. 2392 (1961), § 1, adopted by electorate on January 31,
1961.)
9. Franchises, leases, permits, and licenses in parks
Franchises, leases, permits, and licenses in parks are governed by Article XI, section 164 of the city charter,
which reads:
No franchise shall ever be granted in or on park lands except on vote of the qualified tax-paying
electors in accordance with the provisions of article VIII of the charter of the city.
The council may by motion grant leases, permits, or licenses in or on park lands, but only upon
the affirmative vote of at least four members of the parks and recreation advisory board. The
council may, by ordinance, delegate all or any part of this authority to the parks and recreation
advisory board to approve such leases, permits, or licenses. The parks and recreation advisory
board may, by motion, subdelegate all or any part of its delegated authority to approve such
leases, permits, or licenses to the city manager. The city manager may enter into standard
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commercial licensing agreements for automatic food vending machines on park lands without
the approval of the parks and recreation advisory board or the council.
The term of any license or permit granted hereunder shall not exceed five years, and any such
license or permit so granted shall be revocable by the council at its pleasure at any time,
whether such right to revoke be expressly reserved in such permit or license. (Added by Ord. No.
2392 (1961), § 1, adopted by electorate on January 31, 1961. Amended by Ord. No. 5574 (1993),
§ 1, adopted by electorate on November 2, 1993.)
III. CITY OF BOULDER REVISED CODE
A. Boards and Commissions General Procedures
1. Rules of meeting procedure
Title 2, chapter 3, section 1, subsection b, part 4 states the boards and commissions shall:
Conduct its meetings under Robert's Rules Of Order, Newly Revised (1981), unless the board or
commission adopts other rules of meeting procedure
2. Open meetings
Title 2, chapter 3, section 1, subsection b, part 5 states the boards and commissions shall:
Hold all meetings open to the public, after full and timely notice of date, time, place, and subject
matter of the meeting, and provide an opportunity for public comment at the meeting
3. Procedures
Title 2, chapter 3, section 1, subsection d, part 3 states the boards and commissions are authorized to:
Adopt rules interpreting its legislative duties under this code and establishing procedures in aid
of its functions
4. Voting
Title 2, chapter 3, section 1, subsection d, part f states:
If a member of a city board or commission is present at a meeting and refuses to vote, the
member's vote shall be recorded in the affirmative. No member is excused from voting except on
approving minutes of a meeting that the member did not attend or on a matter creating a conflict
of interest under chapter 2-7, "Code Of Conduct," B.R.C. 1981, or on consideration of such
member's conduct in the business of the board or commission.
B. Parks and Recreation Advisory Board
1. Subpoenas
Title 2, chapter 3, section 10, subsection e, states:
The board is not authorized to issue subpoenas.
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PART TWO: PRAB RULES
I. BASIC PRINCIPLES
The basic principles of parliamentary procedure that PRAB shall strive to uphold:
A. Rules should facilitate the transaction of business and promote cooperation and harmony.
B. All members are equal; officers only have additional duties.
C. The majority vote decides.
D. The rights of the minority must be protected.
E. Full and free discussion of propositions presented for decision is a right of members; balanced with the
chair’s duty to move thru the agenda in addressing time management issues.
F. Every member has the right to comprehend the meaning of the motion before PRAB and its effect.
G. Meetings should be characterized by fairness and good faith.
II. OFFICERS
PRAB shall have a chair, a vice-chair, and a secretary. The chair and vice-chair shall be PRAB members
chosen by majority vote of PRAB at its first business meeting following the annual City Council board
appointments. PRAB may by an affirmative vote of four members at any business meeting remove the chair or
vice-chair from office. Should a vacancy arise in the office of either the chair or vice-chair, PRAB shall fill the
vacancy by majority vote. The secretary shall be a staff member designated either by the city manager or the
city manager’s authorized representative. The secretary does not have authority to vote.
III. CONDUCT
PRAB members shall
A. act on behalf of PRAB only when delegated such authority by a majority vote of PRAB and report back
to PRAB on the exercise of the charge (Note that PRAB members participating in working groups act as
representatives of PRAB but not as spokespersons for PRAB)
B. clearly identify whether they are speaking on behalf of PRAB or speaking for themselves when speaking
in public forums other than PRAB meetings, including but not limited to city council meetings
C. recuse themselves from matters raising a conflict of interest, and not speak on behalf of their own
interests as to that particular matter before city council
D. conduct themselves in all interactions with one another, city council, city staff, and the public in a
professional and courteous manner
E. make all reasonable efforts to avoid “surprise” by being proactive and open in all communications
IV. COMMUNICATIONS TO CITY COUNCIL
The complete text of any motion presented to City Council shall be in writing. PRAB may designate a
PRAB member to present the motion to City Council during the period of public comment or, if
requested by the City Council, the City Manager, or the Department, during the Council meeting. The
PRAB member authorized to present the motion shall provide written copies of the motion to City
Council and request to read the complete text of the motion to City Council.
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V. AGENDA FOR MONTHLY BUSINESS MEETINGS
A. Overview
The agenda is generally set by the department as most matters arise from the department for consideration by
PRAB under provisions of Article XI, Sections 155(c), (d), and (e). Items arising from PRAB for
consideration by the department under Article XI, Section 160(f) may be placed on the agenda as described
below in B. Other items on which a PRAB member desires discussion should be placed on the agenda under
‘matters from board members’ or ‘matters for discussion/information.’
B. Notes on Specific Agenda Item Categories
1. Public Comment
Following public comments, the chair shall recognize a representative of the Department, usually the
Director, to provide the Department an opportunity to respond directly to the public.
2. Items for Action
(a) Items for action are those items for which a motion and vote are anticipated. Usually, such items
should have been discussed at a previous PRAB meeting under ‘items for
discussion/information’. Items on which the Department and/or Council requests PRAB advice
shall generally be presented initially under ‘items for discussion/information’ and then at the
following business meeting under ‘items for action.’
(b) Items for action are usually preceded by a staff presentation regarding the item and the question or
questions for which the staff is seeking the advice of PRAB. The staff presentation may be
followed by questions from PRAB.
(c) Public hearings are discretionary for PRAB. However, in the interests of openness and
accountability, PRAB shall hold public hearings prior to action on items arising under sections
160 (a) – (d) and prior to action on any item for which the PRAB determines that the period of
public comment may not have provided the public an appropriate opportunity for input.
(d) PRAB usually has a period of informal discussion following the close of the public hearing, which
should result in a motion.
(e) PRAB then debates the motion.
(f) PRAB then votes on the motion. The exact wording of the final motion as voted upon shall appear in
the minutes.
3. Matters from the Department
Matters from the Department may include a summary of upcoming work, events, and/or collaborative
activities of which the staff would like PRAB to be aware.
4. Matters from Board Members
Matters from Board members may include ideas regarding information or recommendations to request
from the department, reports from individual PRAB members on sub-committees or other PRAB-
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related activities to which less than a quorum of PRAB has been assigned, or PRAB-related
activities which are not agenda items that an individual PRAB member wishes to bring to the
attention of PRAB as a whole.
C. Agenda Committee
1. The agenda committee is composed of the PRAB chair, PRAB vice-chair, Parks and Recreation
Department Director, and any pertinent staff. In the event that the PRAB chair or PRAB vice-chair can
not attend an agenda committee meeting, another PRAB member can be appointed as a pro tem agenda
committee member by the PRAB member who can not attend.
2. The agenda committee usually meets on a weekday during the week of the monthly PRAB meeting.
3. The agenda committee receives a draft agenda from the Parks and Recreation Department Director, which
reflects charter-mandated actions and items on which the Department and/or Council requests PRAB
advice as defined by Article XI, Sections 160 through 164 inclusive of the city charter.
4. The agenda committee carries out only the agenda setting function on behalf of PRAB as a whole;
therefore, it shall not use the agenda committee meeting to advance the PRAB member’s own agendas
or points of view or to limit or constrain other points of view.
5. The agenda committee determines how to present each item to PRAB, works to balance content with
time, and allocates time for each item (times assigned are guidelines to be monitored by the chair during
the board meeting).
D. The Parks and Recreation Department
1. The Parks and Recreation Department prepares packets containing the agenda and any other pertinent
documents for each PRAB meeting. PRAB materials should clearly articulate the subject or question on
which PRAB’s advice is sought, or the reason why the matter is being brought to the attention of the
PRAB. PRAB materials should allow PRAB members to prepare appropriately prior to the meeting,
such as formulating any pertinent motion, discussion points, and questions.
2. In order for PRAB members to have the most informed discussion of the issues before it, the Parks and
Recreation Department is requested to provide PRAB with objective information. When analyzing
alternative courses of action, it is requested that the Department present and analyze a range of realistic
alternatives, including those proposed by PRAB members and members of the public, and present the
Department’s preferred alternative.
3. The Parks and Recreation Department distributes the packets to PRAB members, usually on the
Wednesday prior to a Monday board meeting.
4. The Parks and Recreation Department provides notice of PRAB meetings as required by BRC 2-3-
1(b)(5).
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VI. COMMON MODES OF PRAB OPERATIONS
A. PRAB Requests to the Department
PRAB may request information and recommendations from the department under Article XI, Section 160(f)
via passing a motion that makes that request. The usual process for making such a request is to introduce an
idea during the ‘approval of agenda’ portion of the meeting and then have an initial discussion of it under
either the ‘matters for discussion/information’ or ‘matters from board members’ portion of the meeting.
Following initial discussion, PRAB should vote on a motion to dispose of the idea, to include it on the agenda
for the next business meeting for further work, or to make another motion that actually spells out the request
of the department.
B. PRAB Informal Discussion
Items that a PRAB member wishes to discuss with PRAB should be raised by that member in the form of a
motion for informal consideration. If the motion carries, then an informal discussion can take place either
under the ‘matters from board members’ portion of the current meeting or under another portion of the current
meeting as specified in the motion approved. An informal discussion is started by a motion but does not
center on a motion, so the rules for handling motions and debate do not apply during the period of informal
discussion. Following informal discussion, a PRAB member may make a motion to include the item for
action on the agenda for the current meeting or for the next meeting. If a motion to add the item to the current
meeting agenda is approved, then any PRAB member may make a motion on that item.
C. PRAB Action
PRAB takes action via a motion, debate on a motion, and voting on a motion. If a PRAB member wishes the
board to take immediate action on an item, that member should raise the item during the ‘approval of agenda’
portion of the meeting in the form of a motion for debate. If the motion carries, then the issue can be debated
during the ‘items for action’ portion of the current meeting.
VII. RULES OF MEETING PROCEDURE
A. Prior to a Meeting
1. PRAB members should review their meeting packets and come to the meeting prepared to address the
agenda without undue delay.
2. To the extent that an individual PRAB member has a question regarding a particular agenda item, the
PRAB member may address the question to the Department Director. If time permits, staff may respond
to the PRAB member who raised the question prior to the meeting and the PRAB as a whole. The
inquiry and response shall be reported at the PRAB meeting by the PRAB member who raised the
question and the chair shall provide the Department an opportunity to speak to the question.
B. Meeting Time and Place
1. The usual meeting time and place shall be the fourth Monday of each month starting at 6 pm in the City
Council chambers; however, the time and place may be changed upon adequate prior notice to the
public, PRAB, and the department.
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C. Required Officers
1. Presiding Officer
The chair of PRAB is the presiding officer, unless absent. In the absence of the chair of PRAB, the
vice-chair of PRAB shall be the presiding officer. If both the chair of PRAB and the vice-chair of
PRAB are absent, then a member of PRAB shall be elected by a majority vote of the PRAB
members present as chair pro tem and shall serve as the presiding officer.
2. Secretary
In the absence of the secretary, a secretary pro tem shall be elected by a majority vote of the members
present.
D. Duties of the Presiding Officer
The presiding officer shall:
Determine the presence of a quorum
Call the meeting to order
Move through the agenda while monitoring the time
Ensure that all persons speaking during public participation have provided the appropriate written
information to PRAB
Ensure that access to the floor is fair, equitable, and untainted by his/her position on the issue
State and put to vote all motions
Announce the result of each vote
Enforce the rules relating to procedure and decorum
Refuse to recognize dilatory or improper motions
Announce the basis or reason for ruling any motion improper
E. Rights of Members
Members’ rights include:
Make motions
Speak in debate on motions
Vote
Require a retake of a voice vote of which the result is doubted by the member
Make a point of order to insist on the enforcement of the rules if the member notices a breach of the
rules that the presiding officer has not corrected
Make a parliamentary inquiry of the presiding officer if uncertain as to whether there is a breach on
which a point of order can be made
F. Appeal
Although the duty of ruling on all questions of parliamentary procedure rests with the presiding officer, any
two members can require him to submit a ruling to the vote of PRAB by moving and seconding an
appeal immediately after the presiding officer has made a ruling. By one member making the appeal
and another seconding it, the ruling is taken from the presiding officer and vested in PRAB for final
decision.
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G. Quorum
1. Four members of PRAB constitute a quorum, as specified in Article XI, Section 159.
2. It is the duty of the presiding officer to determine that a quorum is present before calling a meeting to
order. An announcement is not required.
3. The only actions that can be taken in the absence of a quorum are:
Fix a time at which to adjourn
Adjourn
Recess
Take measures to obtain a quorum
H. Assignment of the Floor
1. Before speaking, a member must claim the floor by raising their hand. The chair will recognize a
member by nodding or announcing.
2. While a motion is open to debate, if the member who made the motion claims the floor and has not
already spoken on the question, then she or he is entitled to be recognized first.
I. Rules of Speaking
At all times, members shall
Maintain a courteous tone
Avoid repetition to the greatest extent possible
Not engage in personal attacks
Confine their statements to 5 minutes, unless permission has been obtained from PRAB to exceed that
limit
J. The Handling of a Main Motion
1. Making a motion
A member, after obtaining the floor, makes a motion. If necessary, the motion can be prefaced by a few
words of explanation, which must not become a statement, or a member can first request information
or can indicate briefly what he wishes to propose and request the chair or another member to assist
with appropriate wording. A resolution or a long or complicated motion should be prepared in
advance of the meeting, if possible, and should be put in writing before it is offered.
2. Seconding a motion
Another member can second the motion to indicate that the motion should come before PRAB for
consideration. The seconder may speak and vote against the motion. If there is no second, the chair
shall not recognize the motion.
3. Stating the motion
The chair formally places the motion before PRAB by stating the exact motion and announcing it is
open to debate. The chair may require any motion to be in writing before she or he states it. Note
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that a motion can be withdrawn by its proposer anytime before the chair states the motion. Once the
chair has stated it, the motion can be withdrawn only by permission of PRAB.
4. Debate
(a) The presiding officer can enter into the debate on the pending motion.
(b) The assignment of the floor in section VI H above applies.
(c) The speaker’s position on the motion should be stated directly, such as “I support this motion
because…” or “I oppose this motion because…”
(d) In addition to the rules for speaking in section VI I above, the following rules of decorum apply:
i. Members shall confine remarks to the merits of the pending question – discussion that departs
from the subject is out of order
ii. Members shall refrain from attacking a member’s motives
iii. Members shall not disturb PRAB during debate
iv. Members who are interested and informed on the subject may speak several times providing that
members who have not already spoken are not seeking recognition.
v. Merely asking a question or making a brief suggestion is not considered a statement in debate.
vi. After each member has had the opportunity to be heard in each round of debate, the chair shall
ask if there is any further discussion. If not, the motion is put to a vote.
(e) Amendments
i. An amendment must always be closely related to or have bearing upon the subject of the motion to
be amended. No new subject can be introduced under the pretext of an amendment but an
amendment can be hostile to or defeat the spirit of the original motion.
ii. Amendments may
a) insert or add words or paragraphs
b) strike out words or paragraphs
c) strike out and insert words
d) substitute words, from one word to the entire text of the motion
iii. Handling of amendments
a) A member obtains the floor during debate on a motion
b) The member moves to amend
c) Another member seconds
d) The presiding officer states the proposed amended form of the motion
e) Debate on the amendment
f) The presiding officer puts the amendment to a vote
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5. Putting the motion to a vote
(a) The presiding officer asks “Is there any further discussion?” If no one claims the floor, then the
chair announces the exact motion. If there is any possibility of confusion, the chair should explain
the effect of a yes vote and the effect of a no vote.
(b) The presiding officer announces the form of the vote, in accordance with section L below.
(c) The presiding officer calls for the affirmative vote
(d) The presiding officer calls for the negative vote
(e) The presiding officer announces the result of the vote
K. Other Useful Motions
Motions other than main motions are available and members are encouraged to consult The Standard Code of
Parliamentary Procedure (2001) for further information. Some of the more useful motions available are
summarized in the table appearing in part II of the appendix.
L. Improper Motions
1. A motion is out of order if it conflicts with US, Colorado, or City of Boulder law.
2. A motion is out of order if it proposes action outside the legal scope of PRAB.
3. A motion is dilatory and out of order if it seeks to obstruct or thwart the will of PRAB as clearly indicated
by the existing parliamentary situation or if it is absurd in substance.
M. Principal Rules Governing Motions
The following chart is adopted from The Standard Code of Parliamentary Procedure (2001):
category precedence motion interrupt second Vote
Privileged
1 Adjourn no yes Majority
2 Recess no yes Majority
3 Question of privilege yes no None
Subsidiary
4
Postpone temporarily
(table) no yes
majority, 2/3 if suppresses debate on the
motion
5 Close debate no yes 2/3
6 Limit debate no yes 2/3
7 Postpone to a certain time no yes Majority
8 Refer to committee no yes Majority
9 Amend no yes Majority
Main
10 Main motion no yes Majority
10 Amend a previous action no yes Majority
10 Ratify no yes Majority
10 Reconsider yes yes Majority
10 Rescind no yes Majority
10 Resume consideration no yes Majority
Incidental
Motions
NA Appeal yes yes Majority
NA Suspend rules no yes 2/3
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NA Consider informally no yes Majority
Incidental
Requests
NA Point of order yes no None
NA Parliamentary inquiry yes no None
NA Withdraw a motion yes no None
N. Voting
1. A roll call vote on a rotating basis of the roll shall be taken upon all motions pertaining to:
disposal of park lands
expenditure or appropriation from the permanent park and recreation fund
grant or denial of any license or permit in or on park lands
review of the budget
recommendations on the budget
2. For all other motions, the vote may be taken by voice, by show of hands, or by roll call on a rotating basis
of the roll as determined by the presiding officer subject to appeal.
3. Unless otherwise expressly provided in the Charter or BRC, an affirmative vote of a majority of the
members present shall be necessary to authorize any action of PRAB, as specified in Article XI, Section
159.
4. Any member who doubts the result of a voice vote has a right to require a retake of that voice vote as a
show of hands.
5. If a PRAB member is present and refuses to vote, the member’s vote shall be recorded in the affirmative.
No member is excused from voting except on approving minutes of a meeting that the member did not
attend or on a matter creating a conflict of interest as specified by BRC 2-3-1(f).
VIII.OTHER MEETINGS
PRAB may hold meetings other than the monthly business meeting. Such meetings shall be called by PRAB
by a majority vote on a motion – the motion shall include the time and place of the meeting. Such meetings
are subject to the legal context in which PRAB exists including notice and minutes. Such meetings may be
study meetings with city staff, PRAB working meetings without staff, or other forms as needed.
IX.PARLIAMENTARY PROCEDURE
Except as provided herein or specified in the Charter or BRC, all matters of procedure are governed by The
Standard Code of Parliamentary Procedure (2001).
X.AMENDMENT
Provided notice of proposed changes, which includes additions, has been given to each PRAB member and to
the Office of the City Attorney at least fifteen days prior to a business meeting, these rules may be amended
by PRAB by an affirmative vote of four members.
XI.REVIEW
At the first business meeting of each calendar year, these rules shall be reviewed by PRAB for the purposes of
PRAB members maintaining familiarity with these procedures, assessing the effectiveness of these rules,
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and evaluating if any modifications are needed. Updates to the handbook, especially updating the statutory
quotations, should also be made by PRAB in cooperation with the City Attorney’s Office at that time.
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PART THREE: APPENDIX
I. BRC CODE OF CONDUCT
Chapter 2-7: Code of Conduct
2-7-1 Purpose, Legislative Intent and Findings.
(a) Purpose: The purpose of this chapter is to protect the integrity of city government by:
(1) Defining and forbidding certain conflicts of interest that if left unchecked tend to compromise
the ability of elected and appointed public officials and public employees to perform their duties
without improper financial influence.
(2) Defining and discouraging certain actions that may create an appearance of impropriety that
undermines public trust in the accountability and loyalty of elected and appointed public
officials and employees.
(3) Protecting the integrity of city government by providing standards of conduct and guidelines
for elected and appointed public officials and public employees to follow when their private
interests as residents conflict with their public duties.
(4) Fostering public trust by defining standards of honest government and prohibiting the use of
public office for private gain.
(b) Legislative Intent: It is the intent of the city council to:
(1) Prohibit public officials and public employees from acting on any matter in which he or she
may have a conflict of interest.
(2) Establish aspirational guidelines to encourage public officials and public employees to avoid
any appearance of impropriety.
(3) Require adherence to any provision of state or federal law that imposes a higher standard of
conduct than this chapter.
(c) Findings: The city council finds and determines that this chapter is necessary to protect the
public health, safety, and welfare of the residents of Boulder.
2-7-2 Conflicts of Interest Prohibited.
(a) Conflicts Prohibited: No public official or public employee shall make or participate in the
making of any official action in which he or she knows or should have known that he or she
would have a conflict of interest.
(b) Disclosure Required: Each public official or public employee shall disclose any conflict of
interest and disqualify him or herself from participating in the relevant action as provided in
section 2-7-10, "Disclosure and Recusal Procedure," B.R.C. 1981.
2-7-3 Use of Public Office or Confidential Information for Financial Gain.
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(a) Use Of Position For Gain Prohibited: No city council member, employee, or appointee to a
city board, commission, task force or similar body shall use his or her public office or position
for financial gain.
(b) Use Of Confidential Information For Financial Gain Prohibited: No city council member,
employee, or appointee to a city board, commission, task force or similar body shall use or
disclose confidential information obtained as a result of holding his or her public office or
position, to obtain financial gain, whether for personal gain; gain for his or her relative; gain of
any property or entity in which the official or employee has a substantial interest; or gain for
any person or for any entity with whom the official or employee is negotiating for or has any
arrangement concerning prospective employment.
2-7-4 Duty to Maintain the Confidentiality of Privileged Information.
(a) Duty Of A Member Of City Council, Board, Commission, Task Force Or Similar Body: No
city council member or appointee to a city board, commission, task force or similar body shall
disclose privileged or confidential information without a public majority vote granting the
permission of the council or similar body that holds the privilege. The sanction for a member of
the city council, board, commission, task force or similar body shall be censure of the body,
reached by a majority vote of the body, not including the member charged with disclosing such
confidential information.
(b) Duty Of A City Employee: No city employee shall disclose privileged or confidential
information, obtained as a result of holding his or her public office or position, unless the
employee has first received approval by the city manager acting upon the advice of the city
attorney.
2-7-5 Gifts to Officials and Employees.
(a) Gifts Prohibited: No city council member or appointee to a city board, commission, task
force or similar body, or city employee, or relative of such employee or official shall accept
anything of value including, without limitation, a gift, a favor, or a promise of future employment
if:
(1) The official or employee is in a position to take official action with regard to the donor; or
(2) The city has or is known to be likely to have a transactional, business, or regulatory
relationship with the donor.
(b) Exceptions And Items Not Considered Gifts: The following shall not be considered gifts for
purposes of this section, and it shall not be a violation of this chapter for a person to accept the
same:
(1) Campaign contributions as permitted by law;
(2) An unsolicited, occasional non-pecuniary gift of a maximum amount of $50.00 or less in
value. The maximum amount will be adjusted on January 1, 2006, and annually thereafter to
reflect changes in the United States Bureau of Labor Statistics Consumer Price Index for the
Denver-Boulder Consolidated Metropolitan Statistical Area for all Urban Consumers, All
Goods, or its successor index;
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(3) A gift from a relative;
(4) An award, publicly presented, in recognition of public service;
(5) Reasonable expenses paid by other governments or governmentally related organizations for
attendance at a convention, fact-finding mission or trip, or other meeting if the person is
scheduled to deliver a speech, make a presentation, participate in a panel, or represent the city;
(6) Items which are similarly available to all employees of the city or to the general public on the
same terms and conditions; and
(7) A single unsolicited ticket given to a city council member and valued at not in excess of
$150.00 to attend events open to the public on behalf of the city, such as awards dinners,
nonprofit organization banquets and seminars, provided that:
(A) The ticket is offered only to the council member and has no resale value; and
(B) The ticket is not offered by a commercial vendor who sells or wishes to sell services or
products to the city; and
(C) The ticket is not for a sporting event.
2-7-6 Prior Employment, Outside Employment, and Subsequent Employment.
(a) Prior Employment: No person shall be disqualified from service with the city as an official or
employee solely because of his or her prior employment. Officials and employees shall not take
official action with respect to their former employers for a period of six months from the date of
termination of the prior employment.
(b) Disclosure Of Employment And Other Business Activities: All officials and employees, other
than elected officials, shall report existing or proposed outside employment or other outside
business interests that may affect their responsibilities to the city in writing to their appointing
authorities prior to being appointed or hired. After being appointed or hired, all such people
shall report any changes of employment or changes to outside business interests that may affect
the person's responsibilities to the city, within thirty days after accepting the same. An employee
that has received permission from the city manager may engage in outside employment or
outside business interests.
(c) Disclosure By City Council Members: Members of the city council shall report any change in
their employment status that could give rise to a conflict of interest under this chapter.
(d) Activities That Occur After Termination Of Employment Or Office: No former official or
employee shall seek or obtain employment concerning matters upon which he or she took official
action during his or her service with the city for six months following termination of office or
employment. This provision may be waived by the city council or the city manager.
(e) Participation Of Former Officials Or Employees: No former official or employee shall
appear before, or participate in, a city board, commission, task force or similar body on which
he or she was a member or served directly as an employee concerning any matter or on which he
or she took official action during his or her service with the city for twelve months following
termination of office or employment. This prohibition may be waived by the city council by
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appointment or vote. This prohibition shall not apply to persons who appear before the city in
their capacity as an elected official following termination of their office or employment with the
city.
(f) Participation In Litigation After Termination: No former official shall engage in any action or
litigation in which the city is involved on behalf of any other person or entity, if the action or
litigation involves a matter upon which the person took official action during his or her service
with the city for twelve months following termination of service with the city.
2-7-7 Employment of Relatives.
(a) No official or employee shall appoint, hire, or advocate the appointment or hiring by the city
any person who is his or her relative. In the event that an employee is concerned that the
employee's decision to appoint, hire or advocate the appointment or hiring by the city a person
who is the employee's relative may cause an appearance of violating this section, the employee
may request that the city manager make such decision on the employee's behalf. Council-
appointed officers may request the city council to make such an appointment or hiring decision
on their behalf.
(b) The city may enter into transactions with companies, corporations or other business
organizations that employ a relative of a city official or employee, provided that:
(1) The official or employee does not participate in the decision making that leads to hiring the
company, corporation, or other business organization that employs his or her relative; or
(2) The business organization is a publicly-traded corporation that provides its services or
products to the city on nondiscriminatory terms justified by the market facts and circumstances
of each transaction; or
(3) The company, corporation, or business organization has been doing business with the city for
at least one year prior to the date the city official's or employee's relative became employed by
the company, corporation or other business organization, and the city official's or employee's
relative is not directly employed upon matters involving the city and does not have his or her
compensation tied in any manner to the success of the company, corporation, or other business
organization, or its ability to obtain business or earn compensation from the city.
2-7-8 Representing Others Before the City Prohibited.
(a) City Council Members Barred From Representing Others: No city council member shall
appear on behalf of himself or herself, or another person, before the city council or any city
board, commission, task force or similar body. A city council member may be affiliated with a
firm appearing on behalf of or employed by another person concerning any transaction with the
city before such a body if the council member discloses the situation and recuses himself or
herself pursuant to section 2-7-10, "Disclosure and Recusal Procedure," B.R.C. 1981.
(b) Board, Commission Or Task Force Members Barred From Representing Others: An
appointee to a city board, commission, task force or similar body may appear or be affiliated
with a firm appearing concerning any transaction with the city under the following
circumstances:
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(1) An appointee may appear on his or her own behalf before the body of which he or she is a
member to represent his or her personal interests, if the appointee discloses the situation and
recuses himself or herself pursuant to section 2-7-10, "Disclosure and Recusal Procedure,"
B.R.C. 1981, or before the city council;
(2) An appointee may appear on behalf of another person before any city body except the city
council or the body of which the appointee is a member;
(3) A firm with which an appointee is affiliated may not appear on behalf of or be employed by
another person concerning any transaction before the body of which the appointee is a member
unless the appointee discloses the situation and recuses himself or herself pursuant to Section 2-
7-10, "Disclosure and Recusal Procedure," B.R.C. 1981.
(c) City Employees Barred From Representing Others: No city employee shall appear on behalf
of or be employed by another person concerning any transaction with the city or before the city
council or any city board, commission, task force or similar body. An employee may appear
before such a body on his or her own behalf or on behalf of such employee's spouse, parent, or
child. Nothing in this chapter shall be deemed to prohibit the city manager from establishing
additional policies and regulations to prevent conflicts of interest between city employees and
the city.
(d) City Council Members And Municipal Court: No city council member who is an attorney
shall appear on behalf of or be employed by another person or be affiliated with a firm
appearing on behalf of or employed by another person concerning any matter before the
municipal court.
(e) City Employees And Municipal Court: No city employee who is an attorney shall appear on
behalf of or be employed by another person or be affiliated with a firm that appears on behalf of
or is employed by another person concerning any matter before the municipal court. A non-
attorney employee may appear before the municipal court on his or her own behalf, and an
employee other than a municipal court judge may appear on behalf of such employee's spouse,
parent, or child to the extent otherwise allowed by law. This authority is intended to allow
employees to assist family members in matters before the municipal court to the extent permitted
by law but not to promote the unauthorized practice of law.
(f) Board, Commission, Or Task Force Member And Municipal Court: An appointee to a city
board, commission, task force or similar body may appear before the municipal court and may
be affiliated with a firm appearing before the municipal court.
(g) Consent To Sue: No city council member or appointee to any city board, commission, task
force or similar body shall be a party or by himself or herself or as an affiliate of a firm appear
on behalf of a party in a civil law suit in which the city is an adverse party, unless the member or
appointee first obtains the consent of the city council.
Ordinance No. 7517 (2007)
2-7-9 Appearances of Impropriety Discouraged.
(a) These guidelines are intended to establish ethical goals and principles to help city council
members, employees, and appointees to a city board, commission, task force or similar body to
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determine if their actions may cause an appearance of impropriety that will undermine the
public's trust in local government.
(b) Violations of this section shall not constitute a violation of this chapter. Compliance with this
section will not constitute a defense for violation of another subsection or section of this chapter.
(c) A city council member, employee, or appointee to a city board, commission, task force or
similar body who determines that his or her actions may cause an appearance of impropriety
should consider, but is not required to, disclose and recuse as prescribed by section 2-7-10,
"Disclosure and Recusal Procedure," B.R.C. 1981, in the following circumstances:
(1) If the person is an employee of a state or federal government entity with a substantial interest
in any transaction with the city;
(2) If the person has a close friend with a substantial interest in any transaction with the city,
and the council member, appointee, or employee believes that the friendship would prevent such
person from acting impartially with regard to the particular transaction;
(3) If the person has an interest in any transaction with the city that is personal or private in
nature that would cause a reasonable person in the community to question the objectivity of the
city council member, employee, or appointee to a city board, or commission;
(4) If the person is called upon to act in a quasi-judicial capacity in a decision regarding any of
the situations described in paragraphs (c)(1), (c)(2), and (c)(3) of this section; or
(5) If the person owns or leases real property within six hundred feet from a parcel of property
that is the subject of a transaction with the city upon which he or she must make a decision, and
is not required to receive official notice of a quasi-judicial action of the city. (Ordinance No.
7453 (2006))
2-7-10 Disclosure and Recusal Procedure.
(a) Disclosure And Recusal: No person with a conflict of interest pursuant to subsection 2-7-
2(a), B.R.C. 1981, and no person described in subsection 2-7-8(a) or (b), B.R.C. 1981, shall fail
to give written notice of the interest described in such subsection to the city council or the city
board, commission, task force or similar body of which the person is a member and the city
manager as soon as reasonably possible after the interest has arisen. However, no written notice
is required if such person discloses the conflict of interest on the record of a public meeting of
the city council or the city board, commission, task force or similar body of which the person is a
member. The interested council member, employee, or appointee shall thereafter:
(1) Refrain from voting upon or otherwise acting in an official capacity in such transaction;
(2) Physically absent himself or herself from the room in which a matter related to such
transaction is being considered; and
(3) Not discuss any matter related to such transaction with any other member of the council,
board, commission, task force, or similar body of which the person is a member.
(b) Recusal By The Council, Board, Commission, Task Force Or Similar Body: The city council
and any city board, commission, task force or similar body may order recusal of one of its
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members if that member has an obligation to do so under this chapter and has failed to do so.
Such an order is valid if reached after majority vote of the members of the body, not including
the member whose recusal is sought, based on competent evidence.
2-7-11 Enforcement.
(a) Violations Prohibited: No person shall violate the requirements of this chapter.
(b) Complaints: A complaint alleging a violation of this chapter may be initiated by any of the
following:
(1) Complaints Initiated By The City Manager Or City Attorney: The city manager or city
attorney may initiate an investigation of any city employee, other than those directly reporting to
the city council, if facts are alleged to the city manager in any form that, if true, would constitute
a violation of the provisions of this chapter.
(2) Complaints Initiated By A Resident Or City Employee: A resident of the city or any city
employee may initiate an investigation of any city council member, employee, or appointee to a
city board, commission, task force or similar body by filing a sworn statement with the city clerk
setting forth facts which, if true, would constitute a violation of a provision of this chapter.
(3) Complaints Initiated By The City Council: The city council may initiate an investigation of
any of its employees, and of any city council member or appointee to a city board, commission,
task force or similar body if facts are alleged to the council that, if true, would constitute a
violation of the provisions of this chapter.
(c) Investigation Of A Complaint: The city manager (for city employees) or the city council (for
all others) shall request the city attorney to conduct an investigation regarding a violation of this
chapter. The city attorney may request that the city council appoint special counsel to investigate
and prosecute any case that may cause the city attorney to have a conflict of interest or may
cause an appearance of impropriety under the provisions of this chapter, or may violate any rule
regarding professional responsibility.
(d) Response To All Complaints Required: A public official or body, or appointee thereof,
conducting an investigation pursuant to subsection (b) of this section shall prepare written
findings of fact and conclusions of law in response to all complaints that shall be made available
to the public upon completion of the investigation. The response may include a finding that the
complaint has no merit, is frivolous, is groundless, or is brought for purposes of harassment.
(e) Limitations: No action may be taken on any complaint that is filed later than twelve months
after discovery of the facts supporting an allegation that a violation of this chapter occurred.
2-7-12 Sanctions and Remedies for Violation.
(a) Transactions Voidable: If a transaction including but not limited to a contract or sale is
consummated contrary to the provisions of subsection 2-7-2(a), B.R.C. 1981, the city council
may void the transaction.
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(b) Removal By City Council: The city council may remove any of its employees and any member
of a city board, commission, task force or similar body that it finds has willfully violated any
provision of this chapter.
(c) Sanction Recommendations: If the party conducting an investigation pursuant to section 2-7-
11, "Enforcement," B.R.C. 1981, finds that a city council member or an appointee to a city
board, commission, task force or similar body, or employee has violated any provision of this
chapter, the investigator shall provide its findings and recommendations to the city manager or
city council, as appropriate, who or which in turn may take any of the following actions:
(1) In the case of a city council member, a motion of censure;
(2) In the case of a city employee, a motion for censure or a recommendation that the employee's
appointing authority consider disciplining or discharging the employee;
(3) Removal as provided in subsection (b) of this section; or
(4) As an alternative or in addition to the sanctions imposed herein, the city council may resolve
that any person or entity causing, inducing, or soliciting a public official or public employee to
violate this chapter may not be involved in any transaction with the city, including but not
limited to the award of any city contract, grant, loan or any other thing of value for a period of
twelve months or that any such contract, grant, loan or thing of value be terminated, repaid or
forfeited.
(d) Civil Remedies: Any person affected by a city transaction may commence a civil action in the
District Court in and for the County of Boulder for equitable relief to enforce the provisions of
this chapter upon a showing of willful violation of any provision of this chapter. Before filing
such an action, the person shall present the claim to the city attorney to investigate in
accordance with subsection 2-7-11(c), B.R.C. 1981. The city attorney or appointed special
council shall have sixty days to act thereon. No civil action in district court pursuant to this
subsection may be commenced later than twelve months after a violation of this chapter is
alleged to have occurred.
(e) Criminal Sanctions: The city attorney, or special counsel authorized to act on behalf of the
city attorney, acting on behalf of the people of the city, may prosecute any violation of this
chapter in municipal court in the same manner that other municipal offenses are prosecuted.
(f) Defense: It shall be a defense to any charge of a violation of this chapter if the city council
member, employee, or appointee to a city board, commission, task force or similar body obtained
an advisory opinion pursuant to section 2-7-13, "Advisory Opinions and Outside Counsel
Appointment," B.R.C. 1981, and was acting in accordance with the advice provided thereby.
2-7-13 Advisory Opinions and Outside Counsel Appointment.
(a) City Attorney To Provide Advisory Opinions: Any city council member, employee, or
appointee to a city board, commission, task force or similar body may request an advisory
opinion of the city attorney whenever a question arises as to the applicability of this chapter to a
particular situation. The city attorney's advisory opinion may provide a specific defense from
prosecution as set forth in section 2-7-12, "Sanctions And Remedies For Violation," B.R.C. 1981.
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(b) Appointment Of Outside Counsel: If a significant controversy arises under this chapter, the
city attorney may appoint a neutral outside counsel to assist in resolving the issue.
2-7-14 Exemptions From Chapter.
Nothing in this chapter shall be deemed to apply to a city employee or appointee to a city board,
commission, task force or similar body who appears before any such body to urge action on a
policy or issue of a general civic nature or to the relationship between the city council, the city,
and a general improvement district. Participation in an improvement district shall not, in and of
itself, constitute a conflict of interest for a city council or improvement district advisory
committee decision concerning the district.
2-7-15 Definitions.
"Affiliated with" means an employee, partner, agent, stockholder, joint venturer, or corporate
director of any business organization or a person who shares office space with such
organization.
"Appear on behalf of" means to act as a witness, advocate, or expert or otherwise to support or
oppose the position of another person.
"Conflict of interest" shall mean any situation in which a city council member, an appointee to a
city board, commission, task force or similar body, or a city employee:
(a) Has a substantial interest in any transaction with the city;
(b) Has a relative with a substantial interest in any transaction with the city;
(c) Has a substantial interest as an affiliate of a firm with a substantial interest in any
transaction with the city;
(d) Has a substantial interest as an affiliate of a firm appearing on behalf of or employed by a
person with a substantial interest in any transaction with the city;
(e) Is an officer of an organization that has taken an official position on any transaction with the
city;
(f) Is on the board of directors of an organization that is substantially affected by a transaction
with the city;
(g) Is affiliated with a law, accounting, planning, or other professional firm that has substantial
interest in any transaction with the city; or
(h) Is required to receive official notice of a quasi-judicial action from the city.
"Employment" means providing personal services as an employee or an independent contractor,
with or without consideration.
"Gift" means any payment, entertainment, subscription, forbearance, service, or any other thing
of value, rendering or deposit of money, which is transferred to a donee directly or in trust for
his or her benefit. "Gift" shall not include campaign contributions as permitted by law.
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"Official action" means any legislative, administrative, or quasi-judicial act of any public
official or employee including, without limitation, participation in, or influence of, the decision-
making process leading up to a vote or final determination.
"Public employee" or "employee" means any person holding any paid position of employment
with the city, but shall not include consultants or contractors who have independent control over
their work product.
"Public official" or "official" means any person holding a position with the city by election and
any person holding a position as an appointee of the city council or the city manager serving on
any city board, commission, task force or similar body.
"Relative" means any person related to a public official or an employee by blood, marriage or
adoption, through the second degree of consanguinity, including, without limitation, the
following: spouse, parents, parents-in-law, children, children-in-law, brothers and sisters,
brothers and sisters-in-law, grandparents, grandchildren, aunts, uncles, cousins, nephews, and
nieces. A separation between spouses shall not be deemed to terminate relationships described
above which exist only because of marriage.
"Substantial interest" means a situation, including, without limitation, a financial stake in the
outcome of a decision in which, considering all of the circumstances, would tend to influence the
decision of a reasonable person faced with making the same decision.
"Transaction" means a contract of any kind; any sale or lease of any interest in land, material,
supplies, or services; or any granting of a development right, any planning, zoning or land use
or review process that may precede granting of a development right, license, permit, or
application. A transaction does not include any decision which is legislative in nature that
affects the entire membership of a class or a significant segment of the community in the same
manner as the affected official or employee.
Adopted by Ordinance No. 4677. Amended by Ordinance Nos. 5396, 7286. Derived from
Ordinance No. 3792. Repealed and reenacted by Ordinance No. 7442.
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II.City Attorney’s March 30,2007 Report entitled “Summary of Important Legal Responsibilities for
Board Members and Commissioners
March 30, 2007
CITY BOARDS AND COMMISSIONS
Boulder, Colorado
RE: Summary of Important Legal Responsibilities for Board
Members and Commissioners
Dear City Board Members and Commissioners:
I would like to offer my personal thanks for your willingness to
serve the Boulder community. Public service in Boulder’s form of “home
rule” local government can be very rewarding. It can be challenging as
well. Robust public engagement in civic affairs is an essential hallmark
of Boulder. The Colorado pioneers who created home rule had a deep and
abiding mistrust of distant, secretive government because of the
corruption often bred in that environment. As a result, the City of
Boulder conducts all of its business in the bright sunshine of public and
media scrutiny. Our behavior as public officials, public employees, and
board and commission appointees becomes the example by which the quality
and character of Boulder's local governance is judged. I have great pride
in this city’s commitment to open, ethical, and responsive government. I
know you will join me in feeling a sense of stewardship for the qualities
that make Boulder one of the truly great American cities.
This report summarizes some important city and state laws that
govern how you must conduct yourself as a Boulder board or commission
appointee. These laws create rules to protect the public’s trust in local
government. But they are more than rules – these laws truly define the
essentials of responsive and effective local governance.
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This report is organized into six sections which discuss the
following topics:
The Basics of Colorado “Home Rule” Government
Voting Rules for Boards and Commissions
Boulder’s Conflict of Interest Law
Sunshine Laws: Open Meetings and Open Records
Special Constitutional Rules for Quasi-Judicial Hearings
Rules on Removal from Board or Commission Positions
A final caveat is necessary. This report is meant as a brief
summary of some very complex issues. You should not treat this report as
authoritative legal advice that is binding upon the city. If you have
additional questions, please feel welcome to contact me or your board’s or
commission’s assigned assistant city attorney for further information at
(303)441-3020. Please recognize, however, that the City Attorney’s
Office represents the city as a corporate entity. We are not able to
represent you as an individual in a confidential attorney-client
relationship. We can and do, however, provide legal advice to the
Council, city staff, and boards and commissions on city business.
Moreover, you are entitled to receive non-confidential individual advice
from this office on conflict of interest matters that arise during your
service with the city.
Respectfully submitted,
ARIEL PIERRE CALONNE
City Attorney
APC:lh
cc: City Council
Frank W. Bruno, City Manager
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1. The Basics of Colorado “Home Rule” Government.
“The powerful corporate interests engaged in the
exploitation of municipal franchises are securely
entrenched behind a series of constitutional and legal
checks on the majority which makes it extremely
difficult for public opinion to exercise any effective
control over them.”1
Between the Civil War and the early twentieth century, municipal
governments were considered “creatures” of the state. Cities had only
those few and limited powers that were granted by state legislation.
During the same period, the Fourteenth Amendment – which was intended to
assure Constitutional protection for freed slaves – was interpreted to
extend a wide array of rights to corporations. It is perhaps not
coincidental that several leading jurists of the day (and the leading
municipal law scholar) were former railroad corporation lawyers.2
Powerful railroads and weak cities lead to widespread
legislative corruption. In an attempt to control cutthroat and
monopolistic railroad business practices, Colorado established a Railroad
Commissioner in 1885. The legislature promptly failed to fund the office,
and it was abolished in 1893. A three member Railroad Commission (the
precursor to today’s Public Utilities Commission) was established in 1907,
but didn’t begin its work until 1910 as a result of extensive railroad
litigation.3
Finally, in 1904, Colorado dramatically changed the balance of
power between cities and the state by giving the City of Denver “home
rule” authority. Home rule powers are developed by and founded upon the
will of municipal voters. The voters organize their municipal corporation
around a “charter” which describes and limits the powers of the city
government. Rather than being a “creature” of the state, a home rule
city’s power over “local affairs” is paramount to state law. Boulder
adopted its first charter in 1917.
Today, Colorado home rule cities remain vigilant to protect home
rule power from intrusion by the state legislature. Areas such as zoning,
control of streets and wildlife, and public finance face regular
1 J. Allen Smith, LL.B., Ph.D., The Spirit of American Government, p.289
(1911); The Chautauqua Press, Chautauqua, New York.
2 In 1868, Iowa Supreme Court Justice (and former railroad lawyer) John F.
Dillon authored “Dillon’s Rule.” This rule held that cities have only
those powers expressly granted by the state or necessarily implied as
essential to the purposes declared by the state.
3 The CoPUC website has a nicely done history at
http://www.dora.state.co.us/puc/about/AboutHistory.htm
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challenges from interest groups which would prefer to have uniform state
control. Home rule power must also be protected for the people who have
vested local control in Boulder’s city government. Many of the laws
discussed below are aimed at maintaining the open and ethical foundation
of Boulder’s home rule powers.
2. Voting Rules for Boards and Commissions.
Boulder’s general rules concerning boards and commissions are in
Chapter 2-3 of the Boulder Revised Code 4. The first important rule is that
three affirmative votes are required for any action of a board or
commission of five members. There a few major exceptions: Four
affirmative votes are required for any action of the Planning Board and
for any action of the Parks and Recreation Advisory Board to dispose of
park land or to appropriate funds from the Permanent Parks and Recreation
Fund. If members are absent, it may be necessary to re-hear a matter so
that it is possible for the entire board or commission to vote. This
makes it particularly critical that board and commission members attend
every meeting if possible, in order to give applicants a fair opportunity
for a timely decision.
Board members and commissioners are not permitted to abstain
from voting. An “abstention” is a refusal to vote, despite being present
and qualified to do so. Section 2-3-1(f), B.R.C. 1981 states that if a
member is present but refuses to vote, the member’s vote: “Shall be
recorded in the affirmative.” The only exceptions are approval of minutes
of a meeting that the member did not attend or if the member was excused
under Chapter 2-7-2 “Conflicts of Interest Prohibited,” B.R.C.1981, or on
consideration of such member’s conduct in the business of the board or
commission.
The general provisions of the code, reflecting Section 130 of
the Charter, provide for election of officers of each board and commission
by the board or commission, minutes and summaries, taping of meetings,
application of Robert’s Rules of Order, Newly Revised (1990), unless the
board or commission adopts other rules of the procedure.
4 We cite references to the Boulder Revised Code as “B.R.C. 1981” which
signifies that last major revision and reorganization of the code back in
1981. A searchable version of the code is available online at
http://www.bouldercolorado.gov/index.php?option=com_content&task=view&id=3
30&Itemid=204
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3. Boulder’s Conflict of Interest Law.
Conflicts of interest are prohibited in Chapter 2-7-2 B.R.C.
1981.5 Basically, the code requires public officials and employees not to
participate in any decision which could affect them or a member of their
immediate family financially. The law works by defining city
“transactions” in which an official or employee might have a “substantial
interest.” A “substantial interest” means:
“. . . a situation, including, without limitation, a financial
stake in the outcome of a decision in which, considering all of
the circumstances, would tend to influence the decision of a
reasonable person faced with making the same decision.” Section
2-7-15, B.R.C. 1981.
Although the rule creates an objective standard (“reasonable person”),
there is no set dollar amount that determines when a conflict arises.
Thus, in interpreting the law the City Attorney’s Office evaluates all of
the facts and circumstances surrounding the decision. Legal advice is
only binding with respect to the facts upon which it is based. This means
that board members or commissioners are required to disclose personal
financial information when a conflict issue arises. This can include
sources of income, investments, real estate interests, debts, and loans.
While this kind of disclosure is admittedly intrusive, it is necessary for
legal advice and required by the municipal code.
When a conflict exists, the board or commission member must
“disclose and recuse.” This is the process of publicly declaring the
nature of the conflict and refraining from voting or otherwise
participating in the decision making process in any manner. The process
of public disclosure may be uncomfortable for some people, but it is
required because it provides explicit reassurance to the community that
corrupting influences are not at work. The actual code describes the
“disclose and recuse” rules as follows:
“a) Disclosure and Recusal: No person with a conflict of
interest . . . shall fail to give written notice of the
interest described in such subsection to the city council or the
city board, commission, task force or similar body of which the
person is a member and the city manager as soon as reasonably
5 The city is exempt from the requirements of the recently-approved
initiative known as “Amendment 41,” which would be codified in a new
Article XXIX of the Colorado Constitution. Section 7 of Amendment 41
states: “The requirements of this article shall not apply to home rule
counties or home rule municipalities that have adopted charters,
ordinances, or resolutions that address the matters covered by this
article.”
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possible after the interest has arisen. However, no written
notice is required if such person discloses the conflict of
interest on the record of a public meeting of the city council
or the city board, commission, task force or similar body of
which the person is a member. The interested councilmember,
employee, or appointee shall thereafter:
(1) Refrain from voting upon or otherwise acting in an official
capacity in such transaction;
(2) Physically absent himself or herself from the room in which
a matter related to such transaction is being considered; and
(3) Not discuss any matter related to such transaction with any
other member of the council, board, commission, task force, or
similar body of which the person is a member.” Section 2-7-
10(a), B.R.C. 1981.
If a board or commission member is unsure about whether or not a
conflict of interest exists, the board or commission member is entitled to
consult with a member of the City Attorney’s Office and to request an
advisory opinion on the conflict of interest rules to a particular
situation. Section 2-7-13, B.R.C. 1981. Complying with the City
Attorney’s advice provides a defense from prosecution for violation of the
code. Section 2-7-12(f), B.R.C. 1981.
The city’s conflict of interest law also provides non-binding
ethical guidelines to address the appearance of impropriety that could
arise in some situations. While violation of these rules is not a crime,
the public’s trust can be undermined if these principals are not upheld.
Specifically, the code calls for voluntary recusal in the following
situations:
“(1) If the person is an employee of a state or federal
government entity with a substantial interest in any transaction
with the city;
(2) If the person has a close friend with a substantial interest
in any transaction with the city, and the councilmember,
appointee, or employee believes that the friendship would
prevent such person from acting impartially with regard to the
particular transaction;
(3) If the person has an interest in any transaction with the
city that is personal or private in nature that would cause a
reasonable person in the community to question the objectivity
of the city councilmember, employee, or appointee to a city
board, or commission;
(4) If the person is called upon to act in a quasi-judicial
capacity in a decision regarding any of the situations described
in paragraphs (c)(1), (c)(2), and (c)(3) of this section; or
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(5) If the person owns or leases real property within six
hundred linear feet from a parcel of property that is the
subject of a transaction with the city upon which he or she must
make a decision, and is not required to receive official notice
of a quasi-judicial action of the city.” Section 2-7-9, B.R.C.
1981.
4. Sunshine Laws: Open Meetings and Open Records.
Sunshine laws are the tools by which a skeptical public retains
control of the government it has created.6 These laws are monikered
“sunshine” because they were designed to let the sun shine into the
legendary smoke-filled back rooms of government decision-making.
In this context, we use the intentionally provocative term
secret to make clear how the press and public view government actions that
take place in private settings. Secret government decision-making is
problematic for many reasons, most of which are well beyond the scope of
this report. Public decisions help make sure that the voters have a clear
and accurate view of the actions and values of their local elected and
appointed officials. The voters cannot be expected to make wise decisions
on Election Day if they cannot fully evaluate the skills and values of
their elected representatives. Thus, secret decisions fundamentally
undermine the democratic process. These laws also protect the public’s
ability to participate meaningfully in government decision making.
Sunshine laws fall into two major categories: Open meetings,
and open records (or “Freedom of Information”). Boulder is highly unusual
in that the charter has been interpreted to forbid any closed or executive
session of the Council, or any board or commission. This demonstrates the
paramount importance of open government in Boulder.
Notice of Meetings is Required
Section 2-3-1(b)(5), B.R.C. 1981 requires each board or
commission to: “Hold all meetings open to the public, after notice of the
date, time, place, and subject matter of the meeting, and provide an
opportunity for public comment at the meeting.” This requires at a
minimum that boards and commissions provide twenty-four hour specific
notice of each meeting by posting a copy of the meeting agenda in the
6 While the rules discussed in this report are designed to protect the
public’s ability to trust local government, it is important to recognize
that skepticism about government is not necessarily an indicator of
failure. Indeed, skepticism should be respected as it is a measure of the
public’s engagement in their civic affairs. As public officials, we
answer skepticism by openness, honesty, hard work, and demonstrated
competence. Public trust is earned by daily dedication to these core
values.
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lobby of the Municipal Building and electronically. Agendas for regular
board and commission meeting are published in the Daily Camera as well.
Avoid Private Discussions and Casual Meetings
The state open meetings laws, as well as our consistent
interpretation of Section 2-3-1, B.R.C. 1981, require that if three or
more members of a board or commission meet at any time and discuss public
business, notice must be given of such meeting, and the meeting must be
open to the public. If a chance meeting occurs, such as at a social
event, the members of the board or commission must not discuss public
business. One-on-one communication about public business between members
of a board or commission is permitted.
It is important to recognize that a meeting of three or more
members may not necessarily have to happen in the same time and place. In
other words, a face-to-face meeting is only one way for potentially
unlawful action to occur. “Serial” meetings in which decisions are made
as one official garners support and commitment for certain actions from
several of his or her colleagues, one-by-one, are problematic as well.
State law specifies that three or more elected officials
communicating by e-mail constitutes a public meeting, and all such
communications are to be copied to the Hotline e-mail address. While not
explicitly required by the state law, we advise similar caution for boards
and commissions because a court could find such an electronic
communication to constitute an illegal meeting. Use of one-on-one
telephone or fax communications is a better idea, since the risk of
forwarding is much less, and thus the risk of an illegal meeting can be
more easily avoided.
5. Special Constitutional Rules for Quasi-Judicial Hearings.
The Constitution requires certain city decision-making processes
to follow court-like procedures. These procedures assure a fair and
thoughtful decision that protects the individual rights involved. The
procedures also assure that affected persons have notice of the potential
action and an opportunity to be heard before the decision is made. These
are called “quasi-judicial” hearings.
A quasi-judicial hearing calls for a determination of facts
based upon evidence presented during a hearing. Chapter 1-3, “Quasi-
Judicial Hearings,” B.R.C. 1981, specifies all of the details of handling
procedural and evidentiary issues at such hearings. Special notice
requirements apply, and particular notice requirements are imposed for
certain matters, such as land use and liquor license proceedings. Quasi-
judicial hearings may give rise to an appeal to district court.
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Board members and commissioners should be aware that the city’s
quasi-judicial procedures include the following requirements:
Specific, mandatory rules for advance notice by mail or
publication;
Testimony must be taken under oath or by affirmation;
Oral and documentary evidence are allowed;
Cross-examination is allowed if requested;
Some evidentiary rules (although less stringent than those
used in court); and
Written findings of fact and conclusions of law.
No Ex Parte Contacts
A fair hearing requires the decision to be made upon the basis
of evidence that all have heard, and all have had a chance to challenge.
This means that the substance of all material contacts (conversations,
site visits, etc.) outside of the hearing, dealing with the subject matter
of the decision, must be disclosed on the hearing record, and that an
opportunity be given for comment at the hearing if the material is to be
considered in any way by the board or commission. The City Attorney’s
Office recommends that board and commission members avoid all such ex
parte discussions outside of the hearing in order to avoid problems of
disclosure under Section 1-3-6 (“Ex Parte Contacts,”) B.R.C. 1981. In the
alternative, whenever an ex parte contact cannot be avoided, we recommend
that careful notes be kept of any communications so that they can be
disclosed in detail. We also advise that such disclosure be made whether
or not the board or commission member intends to actually rely upon the
communication, so that no allegation to the contrary can ever be made.
Board and commission members should also avoid site visits guided by an
applicant or other interested party whenever possible, to avoid any chance
of improper influence on a decision. The easiest way to disclose
information is to compare what was said to the written agenda materials
and then to disclose anything that was said that is not contained in the
agenda materials.
6. Rules on Removal from Board or Commission Positions.
The Charter provisions concerning boards and commissions
generally are contained in Section 130, “General Provisions Concerning
Advisory Commissions.” Section 130 provides that: “The Council shall have
the power to remove any commissioner for non-attendance to duties or for
cause.” “Non-attendance to duties” clearly includes unexcused meeting
absences, and can include other kinds of failures to attend to duties.
The Council has relatively broad authority to address inappropriate
conduct by board members and commissioners.
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The Charter contains more specific provisions dealing with
specific boards. The provisions concerning the Planning Board, contained
in Section 74, are slightly more detailed with regard to removal by the
council for cause: “The Council shall remove any appointed member who
displays lack of interest, or fails, upon due notice, and continuously for
three months, to attend meetings of the board without formal leave of
absence.”
The provisions for the Parks and Recreation Advisory Board
contained in Section 158 are similar: “The Council may remove any board
member who displays lack of interest or who fails to attend board meetings
for three consecutive months without formal leave of absence.”
Finally, the provisions concerning the Open Space Board of
Trustees are quite general. Section 173 provides only that: “Five members
of the Council may remove any board member for cause.”
Council has codified the absence rule at Section 2-3-1, B.R.C.
1981: Failure to attend three consecutive regularly scheduled meetings
without a leave approved by a majority of the board is grounds for Council
to remove a member.
To summarize, any unexcused period of absence in excess of three
regularly scheduled meetings can result in termination of membership on a
board or commission. However, the Council retains the power to remove a
board or commission member for absences of a shorter period and for causes
other than absence from board or commission meetings.
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3198 Broadway, Boulder, CO 80304 | www.boulderparks-rec.org | O: 303-413-7200
TO: Parks and Recreation Advisory Board
SUBJECT: Matters from the Board
DATE: October 24, 2022
A.PRAB Retreat Planning: Final agenda
PRAB Retreat Agenda
November 7, 2022, 6:00 -8:00 pm
OSMP Hub Community Room (Open Space and Mountain Parks Bldg)
2520th Street, Boulder
Welcome/Icebreaker (10 minutes)
•Board members and staff to briefly share about themselves and talk about their
favorite Boulder park/facility and why.
Discussion Item 1: How are major issues facing Boulder impacting the Department and
what is/will PRAB’s role be in these issues? (30 minutes)
•PRAB members are often consulted on major issues in Boulder and the intent of this
item is to provide context on BPR’s role and potential PRAB involvement on two
specific topics (Note: staff cannot discuss the merits/substance of the current ballot
issues):
o Future Development
o Public Safety
•Specifically, we would like to understand the impact of these issues on BRP
property/facilities/budget, PRAB’s role in these issues - opportunities and limitations,
and how best PRAB can be informed/kept up to speed on these issues.
Team Building/Trivia Game (30 minutes)
o Board members to submit information about themselves ahead of the retreat for trivia
game.
Discussion Item 2: How can we leverage our role to impact issues in Boulder (25
minutes)
o Following up on the first discussion, we would like to spend some time discussing
specific steps PRAB can take to be more active in the major issues facing the city.
o Specifically, we would like to talk through what we are currently doing (annual letter
to City Council, some attendance at BPR events) and what more we could be doing.
o Possible questions to consider: Is there a more effective/regular way to communicate
to council? Should we have goals around public events? Can we have a master
calendar of city and BPR events? Should we have a liaison with City Council? How
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3198 Broadway, Boulder, CO 80304 | www.boulderparks-rec.org | O: 303-413-7200
can we work more closely with other boards on intersectional issues? How can PRAB
best be informed about future events (i.e. emails, where in our agenda)?
Burning Questions about Boulder Parks and Recreation (10 minutes)
o Board members to submit questions ahead of the retreat for BPR staff to answer
Closing Thoughts/Reflections (10 minutes)
o Time for board members and staff to share thoughts/reflections on our discussions,
next steps
B.PRAB Matters (Verbal)
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