HomeMy WebLinkAbout2003-0930 Special Meeting MIN ASHLAND CITY COUNCIL
PUBLIC INPUT/SPECIAL MEETING
US FOREST SERVICE DRAFT ENVIRONMENTAL IMPACT STATEMENT (DEIS)
MT ASHLAND EXPANSION
Tuesday, September 30, 2003 at 7:00 p.m.
Council Chambers, 1175 East Main Street
CALL TO ORDER
Council Chair John Morrison called the meeting to order at 7:00 p.m.
ATTENDANCE c~o, ~]],
City Council: Councilor Amaroti and Jackson. Mayor DcBoer and Councilor Laws were
absent.
Staff: Panla Brown Public Works Director, Keith Woodley Fire Chief, Mike Bianca Police Lieutenant and
Gino Grimaldi City Administrator.
Dr. Aaron Corbet/148 4th Street/Spoke in opposition of the expansion and how he felt that this was about
nothing more than money. Commented on the soil content in the expansion area and the possibility of
erosion within our watershed. Noted Representative Lenn Hannon's voting record in regards to
environmental issues. He does not trust the Forest Service and asks that the council consider the source.
He favored the suggestion by Eric Navickas of Alternative 5.
Katy Bazylewie/1257 Siskiyou/Spoke on behalf of Southern Oregon University to say that Mt. Ashland
ski area is an important recruitment tool. She stated that Mt. Ashland is a feature in their promotional
materials and is listed as one of the top 10 reasons to attend SOU. She stated that two senior SOU students
had studied the Mt. Ashland area for their capstone project part of which involved surveying students on
their perception on the Mt. Ashland ski area. The principal question was to do determine "If Mt. Ashland
was an influencing factor in their decision making process to enroll." The result of the survey indicated
that 1/3 of the students stated that Mt. Ashland they were influenced by Mt. Ashland.
Skip Knight/1060 Aspen St, Medfurd/Representafive of Medford City Council. Read aloud a Resolution
in favor of the expansion of Mt. Ashland.
Erie Naviekas/711 Faith Street/Felt that it was inappropriate that the City of Medford supports an
expansion into our municipal watershed. He stated that the fu-st thing the city needs to address is the
current conditions on the current development. He asked that the cily request a separate NEPA analysis to
determine how to clean up current conditions. He presented a slide show that indicated serious erosion
pmbletns. He supports Alternative 5, which he felt would create a larger beginner area.
Tom Reid/918 Walker/Spoke in favor of expansion and Alternative 2. He stated his credentials and
relationship with Mt. Ashland Ski Association. He shared the current financial status of Mt. Ashland Ski
Association. He submitted a Statement of Financial Position as of June 30, 2003 and a summarization of
the organization over the time of its existence. Hc also included a break-even analysis for the expansion
that is proposed by Mt. Ashland Association for Alternative 2. He addressed the issue of assuring the city
of adequate assets to cover theoretical closure by explaining the current and future value of the ski facility.
Joseph Flaherty/1423 E Main/Spoke in opposition of expansion and noted that he is an avid snowboarder.
He commented on his concern regarding the building of a facility at the boRom of the bowl and felt that
this is a major safety concern. He felt that there are problems with safety in regards to certain areas of the
current ski facility. He does not believe the speculation on how many visitors the mountain will draw due
to expansion and that there is no certainty. He felt that the mountain belongs to the community.
Andy Bayliss/201 Oaklawn/Commented on his familiarity with the terrain and how he had worked been
working with the community alternative group to try and guide the NEPA process to help improve the area
but not to go into the middle branch. He asked that the council look closely at what is being brought
forward and noted that the Forest Service has been under a great deal of pressure to enlarge and promote
Mt Ashland. He doesn't feel that there is anything being offered that the community as a whole could
stand behind. He suggests improvements that do not enter the middle branch and not to expand the parking
City Council Public Input Meeting 9/30/03 1 of 7
lot. He doesn't feel that it is the city's responsibility to fill up the hotels in the area. Requests that to take
our environmental viewpoint as city, when considering this expansion.
Robert Matthews/309 E Jackson/Spoke in favor of the expansion. He shared his participation with the
purchase of Mt. Ashland. He stated that one of the goals that they had when the ski area was purchased,
was inclusion and participation by all residents of the city. He stated that environmentalist have been
involved in the process from the beginning and have greatly improved the plan for expansion. Shared
pictures on the condition of the dam and explained that this dam had been put in years ago and had been
neglected I past. Stated that Mt Ashland is actively involved and spending money on mitigation matters.
He noted that Mt Ashland has paid for erosion control mitigation. In regards to stream flow, he commented
that the water that would go under the bridge is 2% of the water that would flow into Reeder Reservoir. He
also commented on the notion that the city has a "sole" source of water is arguable given that the city is
currently seeking other sources of water and does not believe that the city depends solely on Reeder
Reservoir for our water needs.
Rivers Brown/1067 Ashland St/Noted concern regarding erosion and sedimentation into Reeder Reservoir
and the future problems associated with this, He felt that what we need is clean fresh water and we are
betting against global warming.
Sue Kupillas/10 S Oakdale/Spoke on behalf of Jackson County Commissioners and mad aloud a
Resolution in favor of the expansion. She shared her experience as a skier on Mt Ashland and the difficulty
level of the facility. The resolution noted the economic value of Mt. Ashland to the Rogue Valley. She
noted her satisfaction that Mt. Ashland Association has properly addressed the environmental issues.
Nick Joslin/327 Morton/Stated that he is a geologist for a company that has consulted for the city on a
number of projects. He spoke in opposition to the expansion as he feels that there has not been adequate
control of erosion problems. He voiced his concern with the possibility of damaging our water supply.
Chris Fowler/966 Tyler Creek/Spoke in favor of improvements at Mt. Ashland that would better
accommodate a wider variety of users. He does not support Alternative 2 or Alternative 6. He also does
not support moving into the middle branch area as this too much of a pristine area to disturb. He is not
willing to take the risk of mitigation in this area. He felt that there are better ways to improve
beginner/intermediate terrain and access issues.
Shawn Kampmann/1520 Pinecrest/He noted the increase use at Mt Ashland and the crowding that is
occurring. He noted his support of Alternative 2 rather than Alternative 6, which would not be aesthetically
pleasing. He shared his awareness of the area through mapping and has worked with experienced
geologists and environmentalists. He provided copies of the Draft Environmental Impact Statement and
pointed out the education and experience of contributors involved in the process. He does not see erosion
as a problem and asked that the council listen to the experts.
Scott Harding/2025 Toiman Creek/Noted his background in geology. Spoke regarding erosion and
sediment delivery and the guesswork approach of the DEIS. He explained how sediment delivery is
determined and how we have no reliable un-site data from Mt Ashland ski area. He explained that the DEIS
was using data from Idaho and extrapolating those numbers to Mt. Ashland. He felt that by extrapolating
Idaho's data to Mt. Ashland without on-site data for verification was a problem. He noted that a computer
model called Disturbed WEPP was used and that WEPP does not account for variations in soil type,
realistic topography, complexities of vegetation across a site or roads or other compacted soils. He stated
that the bottom line on erosion rates is that there is no consistent data obtained on-site through direct
measurement. Erosion rate data is highly uncertain and ~presents a best guess methodology.
Matt Flotho/1257 Siskiyou/Requests staying out of the middle branch and that.there are many things that
could be done to improve the area without going into the middle branch. Commented on the need to
improve the lodge, skier services and improvement of shuttle service. Suggests charging use for parking
area. Need management that focuses on skier services before moving forward on the expansion.
Jim Teeter864 Neil Creek/Spoke for Ashland Chamber of Commerce and endorses and supports the
expansion of Mt. Ashland noting the economic value.
Melina Marvin/361 Idaho/She noted the relationship that the council has with the US Forest Service and
noted that she had wrote a thesis on detailing the environmental history on Ashland Creek Watershed.
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While researching her thesis she found a 1929 document that states the City has something to say in what
happens to the watershed due to involvement by individuals at that time. Requests that the council pass on
the comments made at this public hearing to the US Forest Service. Questioned the need to expand Mt
Ashland for economic reasons.
Jay Liniger/12$3 Tolman Creek/He felt that the decision made would symbolize the value of our
community. He noted the uncertainties and his concern with harming the ecosystem, water supply and
erosion control. He noted thc risks that are being taken and how this has been monitored in similar
expansions. He stated that the burden of proof rests with the proponents and that "zero" harm will affect
the watershed and that mitigation has to be 100% effective. Hc commented that the middle branch is
special and under appreciated in relation to our watershed. Requested that council support and alternative
that does not move into the middle branch.
Muriel Ames/195 Grandview/Spoke in favor of thc expansion and noted the value of Mt Ashland. She
noted the programs used by the students and adults in our community. She also noted the lack of
progression slopes offered for skiers. Supports Alternative 2.
George Badura/2840 David Lane, Medford/Stated that his evaluation is geared toward the municipal
watershed and shared that he is very familiar with this area. His evaluation of the East Ford of Ashland
Creek is that it is a creek channel fi.om the Ski area down that is in a degraded condition. This was caused
by the effects of added runoff fi.om disturbed conditions such as roads, etc. causing the creek channel to
carry the added runoff. The results are common sediment deposits and bank cutting. He felt that there was
nothing that could be done for this condition now other than to not add to the effects. He explained that the
East Fork proper is different terrain than the Middle Fork. That the soils fi.om the Middle Fork are very
deep deposits fi.om mountain glaciation and are very permeable. He explained that the Middle Fork is in
Dynamic equilibrium because it has not and is not currently affected by management activities or
cumulative effects. The concern for the Middle Fork drainage is the effect management activities may have
on wetlands and ground water, especially in the upland appearing Englemann Spruce stands. If subsurface
water is intercepted, this can adversely effect the municipal watershed character. In review of the DEIS, he
finds that the costs for mitigation and restoration have been grossly underestimated.
Jeff Hanson/13880 Greensprings Hwy/Commented favorably on the City's recommended provisions and
offered the Associations willingness to work with the city to meet any concerns.
Ken Crocker/134 Nutley/Commented that he is an avid skier but is opposed to the expansion due to a
value statement. He felt that the council's responsibility is to protect and not to take risks. He does not feel
that recreation takes precedence over our watershed. He cited issues regarding the reality of the political
environment and the pressure on the US Forest Service. The sensitive sediment projectory as used by a
computer model. And that the burden of proof had not been met as it relates to the risk for our watershed.
He stated that mitigation has shown to be ineffective and costly. Requests that the council propose a
resolution to stay out of the middle branch and to follow the Valdez Principles.
City Council Public Input Meeting 9/30/03 3 of 7
Brian Almquist/128 Wimer/Spoke in strong support of Alternative 2. As City Administrator for the City
of Ashland fi.om 1970 until 1998 he shared his familiarity with the Ashland watershed and its interface with
the Mt. Ashland ski area, He reminded the council that the previous owners had announced that if a buyer
could not be found, it was their intention to close Mt. Ashland and to relocate the lif~s to Stevens Pass. The
loss to our region in regards to recreational and economic benefits were recognized and the community
raised the $1.4 million that was needed to acquire the lease and facilities. He explained that a sub-lease
was worked out with the newly created non-profit entity and that this sub~lease had built-in protections
regarding the maintenance of a reserve fund and/or marketable assets, sufficient for restoration of the area
if the enterprise were to fail. In addition, when the facility was acquired, the previous owners had spent
over $200,000 on plans for future expansion, and the Forest Service had prepaid an ElS o the various
alternatives. The city staff was an active participant in that planning process, and was successful in
modifying the preferred alternative in several ways, to protect the watershed. He stated that now, over 10
years later, we are still discussing the same issues. That, following this new planning process, Alternative 2
has been crafted to meet all of the concerns raised and will have no significant impact on water quality in
Reeder Reservoir. The monitoring proposed in this alternative both during and after construction, will
insure that Ashland's water quality will not be adversely impacted. In closing, he stated the need to provide
the terrain that will keep our ski area economically sound for years to come.
Tonya Graham/418 Lit Way/Executive for HeadWaters. Asked that the council keep the following in
focus, maintaining the health of watershed as a top priority, being aware of soil fi.agility on the mountain
and the risks involved due to impact. She asked that the council eousider other alternatives that address
needed improvements. Requested that the council consider a resolution that modifies Alternative 3, which
stays out of the middle branch.
Gary MacGraw/423 Lit Way/Questioned why the city would not be interested in expanding the ski area
when it has been proved that there would be no impact to our watershed. Noted that our community
supports a livable environment. Does not believe that expansion is profit driven but to maintain its
solvency and provide improved ski areas. Supports Alternative 2, which would bring the ski area into
compliance. He does not support Alternative 6. Noted the economic value of the ski facility to our
community.
Bryan Holley/234 Liberty/Spoke regarding what he feels are flaws in logic, one of which is the fiscal
reality of the city's obligation in the future. He questioned who would be interested in purchasing a ski
facility that is experiencing difficulties. He raised his concern relating to the fund raising that will take
place for the expansion. Pointed out the issue regarding the concern that environmental issues will be used
for political reasons. He raised the point that at the public meetings with the Forest Service that the option
of"no expansion" was not given opportunity for discussion. He felt that the council has the political power
to tell the Forest Service how they should participate in the Mt Ashland expansion.
Jimbo Jones/transient/Requested that better fuels and technologies be invested in. Stated that there is a
need for middle ground that all could be comfortable with.
JoAnne Eggers/221 Granite Stree~Requested that the council respect the value and beauty of the middle
branch. She pointed out the average length and width of the longest ski nm and how it would effect the
middle branch area. Commented that global warming has not been given its due and is not just a theory.
Advocated for staying out of the middle branch.
Joanie MeGowan/951 Clay/Felt strong about making a decision and supported the expansion through the
management of Mt. Ashland Association. Noted that she based her decisions on her trust of Mt Ashland
Association and the experts that have been involved. Requested that we work together to improve the ski
area and that the eunncil be clear with their decision. Noted that there is a need to move on and work on
other issues at hand.
David Allen/630 Ray Lane/Commented that most that speak in favor of the expansion noted the economic
value of the mountain and that those that spoke in opposition commented on the environmental risks.
Tom Rose/430 Wiley/Commented that the Forest Service has stated that rain on snow events are the only
serious threat to the watershed and Reeder Reservoir. He stated that the Forest Services had chosen to
ignore the severe thunderstorms that occur on the mountain on a regular basis. He also noted that in the
1980's the Forest Service had redesigned the crossings over both the East and West Forks due to massive
City Council Public Input Meeting 9/30/0~ 4 of 7
water in the re-flows at these two crossings. The purpose of the redesign was to make them impervious to
future events like this. He shared that what happens on the North side can happen on the South side.
Opposes moving into the middle branch. He supports the council seeking George Badura's and Richard
Hart's expert opinion.
David Spear/3827 Annettes Way/Commented on his use of the ski facility and his involvement with the
Mt. Ashland Association. He stated that improvement is needed, specifically in regards to safety. He
supports Alternative 6. He commented that nothing we do, will provide zero impact, and that we should
consider growth and the needs associated with growth.
George Sexton/1423 E Main/Commented on the role of the council as the protector of our environment.
Spoke regarding the prior study session and how mitigation was being pushed rather than staying out of the
middle branch. Read article regarding sediment trapping using wet model. Commented on how the US
Forest Service had not been reliable in how they manage the forest service specifically in municipal
watersheds. Voiced his concern regarding the US Forests Aquatic Conservation Strategy. He does not
believe that the US Forest Service is an agency that supports water quality.
Monica Partridge 535 Sutten Place/Spoke for Medford Chamber of Commerce and voiced the support of
Alternative 2. Feels that this would offer the best recreational and economic value. The expansion will
increase tourism and economic vitality. Feels that the expansion is well planned with low impact to water
quality.
Scan Gordon/lO0 Union Street/Supports keeping the mountain open and making the right decision.
Expansion based on future growth is inappropriate and noted other improvements that could be done in
place of expansion. Would like to be assured that erosion mitigation is talcing place.
Valri Williama/744 Helman Street/Treasurer of the Ashland High School Ski Team. Noted the number
of students participating in the ski club at Mt. Ashland. She commented that the available terrain is not
adequate for racing and acknowledged the number of several students in attendance that supported the
expansion.
Larry Cooper/223 5th St/Commented that student programs will continue regardless of the expansion.
Requested that all seasons be considered in regards to the proposed expansion. Voiced his concern
regarding the impact to the middle branch. Requested that the council include in their statement to the
DEIS the community values in regards to the proposed expansion area.
Zach Stevenson/391 Beach Street/Voiced his concern that there is no middle ground in regards to making
a decision on the expansion. He stated the importance of protecting our natural resources for the future.
Stated that he had cataloged the process involving the expansion of Mt. Ashland. Commented on the
impact of the endangered species. He implores the enuncil to find a better way.
Greg Williams/744 Helman/Commented that the Forest Service has done an excellent job with the DEIS
and supported the efforts of the council. Would like to see the Forest Service consider a long gentle slope
for the benefit of the ski racers.
Paul CopelantF462 Jennifer/Commented on ins use and support for the ski facility. He does not support
moving into the middle branch. He commented that the middle branch is an incredible pristine area and it
is unbelievable to him that disturbing this area is being considered. He feels that there will be years of
lawsuits if the expansion is approved. He feels that the Mt. Ashland Board is responsible for this becoming
an ongoing battle and noted the amount of money that has been spent on this proposed expansion. He
stated that the Mt. Ashland Board should resign and that a new Board should start over.
Corky Gardner/4575 Hwy 66/Stated that as a student of Southern Oregon University she was not drawn
to the community due to the benefits of Mt. Ashland. She does not support old growth cuts and opposes
the expansion.
Suzi Aufderheide/321 N Mountain/Commented on the spirituality of the mountain and how air and water
sustains us.
Michael Goldman/198 Aleda/Stated that he come as a supporter of the expansion but after alter egos,
global warning and various other fears commented that we should just close down the mountain and close
City Council Public Input Meeting 9/30/03 5 of 7
down the streets because everything is going to be "so awful." He stated that Mt. Ashland has done a great
job of being stewards of the land and that this is a very empowering recreational facility. That recreation is
an important part of our lifestyle and our life. He stated, that given the testimony that evening opposing the
expansion, that we should all just live in fear. He explained that only 5% of the expansion are in the
watershed.
Danny Gregg/411 Taylor/Not willing to take risks with our water. Should work toward simplicity.
Steve Pearce/700 Butler Creek/Felt that the expansion and environmental issues can work hand in hand.
Noted that Mt Ashland Association has worked hard to protect and improve the ski area. He felt that
without the programs offered through Mt. Ashland Association our children may not experience the forest.
Feels its time to move forward and time for decisive action.
Shelley Elkovich/919 Oak Street/Spoke in opposition to the expansion. Commented that there is an
abandoned beginner mn and does not understand the need for additional development. Feels that current
improvements need to take place. She noted that the pristine middle branch area should be protected. Felt
that the term "restoration" is absurd, that there is no going back. Requests that the council monitor current
issues on the mountain.
Pat Acklin/270 Scenic/Noted that she is a seven-year board member for Mt. Ashland Association and that
there is a history of compromise and shared examples of past compromises. Commented there are too
many arguments based on emotion rather than science. Commented on the sediment rates over the past
years.
Ron Roth/6950 Old Hwy 99S/Noted that he is a seven-year board member for Mt. Ashland Association
and past board member of HeadWaters. It is his opinion that the problem with Mt. Ashland is that it is a
"crowded park." Stated that additional terrain is needed. Explained that Alternative 6 does not enter into
the middle branch. Problem with Alternative 2 is with crossing the creeks. Acknowledged that there
would be minimal impact but that for the good of the community it should be done.
Traey Bungay/334 Bridge Street/Spoke in opposition to the expansion and stating that the risks are too
great. She cannot understand the other side that supports the expansion. Does not trust the Mt. Ashland
Association. Voiced her disappointment that the council did not hike the area with representatives who
were not with the US Forest Service.
Stephen Kindler Stout/130 Orange Street/Suggested that those that support the expansion not use the ski
area during the busy times. Commented on the failure of democracy.
Ryan Navickas/711 Faith StreeffFeels that the city has under-reported the risks due to an expansion.
Noted the deep political ties to those interested in the expansion. Requests that the council seek pure
scientific data before expansion moves forward. He presented 1,000 signatures from local residents who
signed in opposition of the proposed expansion. Stated that this is our watershed not a playground for the
rogue valley. Made known that there would be s~'ong opposition to the expansion.
Jason Clark/142 6th Street/Spoke regarding the Englemaun spruce and that they are a unique plant
community that does not occur anywhere else. Stated that the area that would be effected in regards to
streams is larger than what was indicated. Commented that global warming is real and is beyond
consideration in regards to this expansion. Feels that expansion into the middle branch is a bad idea.
Requested that the council make a statement that puts expansion into the middle branch "to bed."
Jim McCarthy/40 Granite Street/Spoke in opposition of the expansion into the watershed. He stated that
consideration should be taken on what will be lost and that economic reason should not be the priority. He
stated that safety concerns are based on the lack of enforcement. Commented on the need of improvement
to the lodge and lifts.
Marko Bey/1745 Ashland/Spoke in opposition of the expansion. He shared his experience with repairing
damaged ecosystems. Questioned if those supporting the expansion had spent quality time in the middle
branch area. Encouraged the council to do the right thing, that water is priceless. Strongly discouraged the
council on moving into the middle branch.
City Council Public Input Meeting 9/30/0} 6 of 7
Chris Chambers/590 Elizabeth Avenue/Reminded the council of their moral responsibilities for the
Valdez Principals. He stated that the Valdcz Principals were adopted to guide our decisions with an eye on
sustainability. He commented that in addition to the complex biological issues that arc involved, there is
an explosive social dilemma. Because of the divisive nature of the situation, he felt that the council has a
unique opportunity to not satisfy any of the interested parties by supporting a middle ground. Requested
that the council support Alternative 3 with modifications.
Casey Bourgeouis/247 Granite/Represented the Sierra Club and stated that they do not support
Alternative 2 or 6. Commented that 80 football fields of old growth would be clear-cut in the middle
branch. For this reason, the Sierra Club supports Alternative 5 with modifications to include removal of
marine lodge, cut out parking lot expansion and to include a shuttle service. Stated that the proposed
expansion cost is estimated at $6.1 million and that Mt. Ashland Association has indicated that they could
raise $2 million, questioned where the remaining $4.1 million would come from. He felt that the cost of
expansion is a figure that no has explained and will only increase.
Derek Volkart/78 4¢~ Street/Acknowledged that serious compromise has taken place, but that the
mountain has compromised more than anyone had. He feels that the mountain is more than a ski area.
Offered to take skiers into the backcountry. Urged those in opposition to the expansion to stay vigilant.
Christopher Garvey/1250 Ashland Mine Road/Commented that he does not see "alternatives" but only
"build or not build." Stated he is neither pro or anti expansion but pro common sense. That Ashland has an
unbelievable unique situation and opporntinty to mold community resources is a virtually unparalleled. He
noted the need for improved attention to guest services and facilities. He thought that after 20 years there
would have been more significant progress with the little things that would inspire confidence when
handling the larger things. He challenged the management to submit guest services analysis and then to
prove their ability to complete the details. He felt that current practices do not practice a commimaent to
beginner or intermediate skiers and questioned why we should believe that fancy new lifts, runs and lodges
would change this. In closing, he suggested that there are many ways in which Mt. Ashland could improve
without the addition of new lifts, new runs, or new lodges. And, that there needs to be necessary common
sense improvements to the current infrastructure. He believes that it is time for Mt. Ashland to truly
behave as a community resort.
Alexander Achegma/54 N Mountain/Spoke in opposition to the expansion based his reasons on photo
documentation and destruction of wildlife. He felt that there are more sustainable ways of entertainment
and skiing than expansion.
Meeting was adjourned at 11:05 p.m.
Respectfully submitted,
Barbara Christensen, City Recorder
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