HomeMy WebLinkAbout20150374.tiff EXHIBIT
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BEFORE THE WELD COUNTY, COLORADO, PLANNING COMMISSIO A - staff
RESOLUTION OF RECOMMENDATION TO THE BOARD OF COUNTY COMMISSIONERS
Moved by Bruce Johnson, that the following resolution be introduced for passage by the Weld County
Planning Commission. Be it resolved by the Weld County Planning Commission that the application for:
CASE NUMBER: USR14-0067
APPLICANT: TRI-STATE GENERATION & TRANSMISSION, INC
PLANNER: KIM OGLE
REQUEST: A SITE SPECIFIC DEVELOPMENT PLAN AND USE BY SPECIAL REVIEW
PERMIT FOR A MAJOR FACILITY OF A PUBLIC UTILITY OR PUBLIC AGENCY
(A NEW 230/115/69/34.5-KILOVOLT (KV) SUBSTATION LOCATED ADJACENT
TO TRI-STATE'S EXISTING J .M. SHAFER GENERATING STATION CALLED THE
GREENHOUSE SUBSTATION; APPROXIMATELY 5 MILES OF 115-KV
TRANSMISSION LINE FROM TRI-STATE'S EXISTING DAVIS SUBSTATION TO
THE NEW GREENHOUSE SUBSTATION ; LESS THAN 0.1 MILE OF NEW 230-KV
TIE-LINE BETWEEN THE NEW GREENHOUSE SUBSTATION AND THE
EXISTING J.M. SHAFER SUBSTATION; APPROXIMATELY 6.5 MILES OF
SINGLE-CIRCUIT 230-KV TRANSMISSION LINE FROM THE NEW
GREENHOUSE SUBSTATION SOUTH TO TRI-STATE'S EXISTING HENRY LAKE
SUBSTATION, SUBJECT TO THE PROVISIONS OF SECTION 23-3-420 OF THE
WELD COUNTY CODE, AND FACILITY CONSTRUCTION LAYDOWN YARDS AT
THE HENRY LAKE, DAVIS AND GREENHOUSE SUBSTATIONS (CONSISTING
OF TWO CONSTRUCTION TRAILERS, MULTIPLE STORAGE CONTAINERS,
AND OTHER ASSOCIATED EQUIPMENT) IN THE A (AGRICULTURAL) ZONE
DISTRICT.
LEGAL DESCRIPTION: COMMENCING AT THE HENRY LAKE SUBSTATION LOCATED IN SECTION 27,
TOWNSHIP 1 NORTH, RANGE 66 WEST HEADING NORTH INTO SECTION 22,
15, 10, 3 TOWNSHIP 1 NORTH, RANGE 66 WEST TO THE GREENHOUSE
SUBSTATION LOCATED IN SECTION 34 TOWNSHIP 2 NORTH, RANGE 66 WEST
CONTINUING NORTH INTO SECTION 35, 26, 23 AND TERMINATING AT THE
DAVIS SUBSTATION LOCATED IN SECTION 14 TOWNSHIP 2 NORTH, RANGE 66
WEST OF THE 6TH P.M. WELD COUNTY COLORADO
LOCATION: GENERALLY LOCATED SOUTH OF AND ADJACENT TO CR 22; WEST OF CR
35; EAST OF CR 31 AND NORTH OF AND ADJACENT TO CR 4.
be recommended favorably to the Board of County Commissioners for the following reasons:
1 . The submitted materials are in compliance with the application requirements of Chapter 21 of the Weld
County Code
2. It is the opinion of the Planning Commission that the applicant has shown compliance with Section 21 -
3-340. A of the Weld County Code, as follows:
Section 21-3-340.A. 1 — The health, welfare and safety of the citizens of the County will be protected
and served.
The Design Standards (Section 23-2-240), Operation Standards (Section 23-2-250), Conditions of
Approval, and Development Standards ensure that there are adequate provisions for the protection of
health, safety, and welfare of the inhabitants of the neighborhood and County.
Section 21-3-340.A. 2-The natural and socio-economic environment of the County will be protected and
enhanced.
There are no significant prevalent natural hazards in the area that will affect, or be affected by, the project.
Historically the area has been dominated by agricultural uses, residential development and oil and gas
activities.
The communities nearest to the Project area are Brighton and Fort Lupton. Larger nearby cities include
Loveland, Greeley, Longmont and Thornton. It is anticipated that the Project would have a small beneficial
impact to the local economies of these towns and the larger metropolitan cities. Construction contractors,
regardless of origin, would likely spend some money in these communities for fuel, food, or other supplies.
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RESOLUTION USR14-0067
TRI-STATE GENERATION&TRANSMISSION, INC
PAGE 2
During the construction period,the local economy may see a small influx of dollars and a small increase in
sales tax revenue.The footprints of the proposed structures would be the only land removed from current
use. Land between the transmission structures would remain available for farming, grazing, or other
activities. Land at the substation site is currently impacted by demolished greenhouses.
There are no adverse socio-economic constraints associated with the project. The Project would
generate additional tax revenue for Weld County. This Project is not inconsistent with the Economic
Development Goals and Policies described in the Weld County Comprehensive Plan(Weld County 2008).
Section 21-3-340.A.3--All reasonable alternatives to the proposed action,including use of existing rights-
of-way and joint use of rights-of-way wherever uses are compatible,have been adequately assessed and
the proposed action is compatible with and represents the best interests of the people of the County and
represents a fair and reasonable utilization of resources in the impact area.
The transmission line corridor alternatives were evaluated to address the needs of the Project.
Scenario A:Taking no action would result in no power delivery to our Members and their customers.
The No Action Alternative does not meet the needs of the Project.
Scenario B: This alternative would involve the construction of approximately 11.5 miles of transmission
line and one new substation. Alternative B would provide the necessary power to supply oil and gas
facilities in the area, as requested by Member customers.
The preferred system alternative is Alternative B.Alternative B meets the Project's purpose and need and
provides a cost-effective,secure,and reliable source of power for Tri-State's Members,United Power,and
their customers.
The process used to identify alternative locations for the transmission lines began with delineating the
Study Area.The general location for the substation site and the transmission lines were initially identified
based on the location of the oil and gas facilities, interconnection considerations, existing infrastructure,
and residences. The locations of these features heavily influenced the area of consideration for the
transmission line and substation.
Four potential routes from the proposed Greenhouse Substation to Henry Lake Substation were
evaluated. The preliminary routes for the proposed 230-kV Greenhouse—Henry Lake transmission line
were identified along existing transmission lines and pipelines as well as field lines. An existing utility
corridor,which is located directly north of the Henry Lake Substation and going north toward Fort Lupton,
presented an opportunity for routing,although a communication facility is located within the corridor and
another transmission line running east-west crosses the corridor. This route along the central utility
corridor was adjusted slightly to accommodate separation to the communication facility and crossing of the
existing transmission line.An additional route was identified to the west that makes use of less populated
areas and field lines to proceed north to the proposed Greenhouse Substation site.A route to the east was
not evaluated because of the extensive residential development. Variations of the two routes were
combined for a third alternative.
Greenhouse—Henry Lake Preferred Route Alternative:
The Preferred route makes use of the existing utility corridor between the Henry Lake Substation and the
southern Fort Lupton area.The route has the shortest length and has the highest percentage of its length
adjacent to existing linear features.This route also has the fewest number of oil and gas wells within 200
feet of the centerline and the fewest number of center pivots within 75 feet of the centerline. It has the
fewest residences within both 200 feet of the line and 500 feet of centerline and the fewest number of
parcels within the 150-foot right-of-way (ROW). The Preferred route also has the fewest number of
communications facilities within 200 feet of the centerline.
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Greenhouse—Henry Lake Alternative 1:
Alternative 1 starts at the Greenhouse Substation and goes directly south out of the substation site,
paralleling Weld County Road 31 for a short distance, and turns east to parallel the northern side of 9th
Street/Weld County Road 14.Alternative 1 then turns south mid-field for approximately 2 miles.The route
angles southeast to avoid a residence and outbuildings before continuing south for 0.8 mile. The route
then turns west and parallels a property line for 0.3 mile before continuing south approximately 1.5 miles
mid-field. The route turns east to parallel the northern side of Weld County Road 4 and into the Henry
Lake Substation from the western property line. Only a small portion of this route is adjacent to linear
facilities, and it crosses through the center of seven parcels. It would create an additional corridor
approximately 0.5 mile from the existing corridor.
Greenhouse—Henry Lake Alternative 2:
Alternative 2 follows the alignment of Alternative 1 for the majority of the route before it turns due west to
follow a property line and join with the southern segment of the Preferred route and enter into the Henry
Lake Substation from the north.This route was the longest and had the most residences within 500 feet of
the centerline and a residence within 200 feet of the line. It also had the most communication facilities
within 200 feet of the centerline and crossed the most parcels.
Greenhouse Substation to Davis Substation
The area between the Greenhouse Substation site and the Davis Substation is heavily congested with
existing gas pipelines,electric transmission lines,subdivided residential properties,and oil and gas wells
and facilities. Portions of the preliminary routes for the Greenhouse Substation to Davis Substation were
identified along the existing Public Service Davis to Fort Lupton transmission line. An additional route
segment was identified to the east that uses a less populated area away from the subdivision on the
eastern side of Fort Lupton.A route even further to the east is limited by its proximity to the Platte Valley
Airpark. A route to the west is limited by existing electric transmission lines and residences (Aristocrat
Ranchettes).The Preferred route and both of the alternatives occur partially within the City of Fort Lupton.
Greenhouse—Davis Preferred Route Alternative:
The Preferred route begins at the proposed Greenhouse Substation site and heads due south for a short
distance before turning east and heading across open field approximately one mile before turning north for
0.5 mile and then east for 0.5 mile and following the existing transmission lines.The route proceeds north
for approximately 0.8 mile on the eastern side of Grant Street,adjacent to the existing transmission line,
before making a slight jog to the east and back to the existing transmission alignment to avoid an oil and
gas facility.The Preferred route proceeds an additional 2.3 miles north along the eastern side of the parcel
lines to the Davis Substation.
This route is the shortest length of the Greenhouse—Davis alternatives,and has the most percentage of its
route adjacent to existing linear features. It also has the fewest parcels within 75 feet of the centerline.
There are no residences within 75 feet of the centerline,but one residence is within 200 feet. Nearly half of
this route occurs on parcels owned by one private landowner and Anadarko Petroleum.Selection of this
route was based largely on the private landowner's preference for the line to be on the west side of his
parcel along the existing transmission line.
Greenhouse—Davis Alternative 1
Alternative 1 follows the same path as the Preferred route out of the Greenhouse Substation. There was
no alternative to exiting the Greenhouse Substation due to existing transmission and pipelines on the
north.Alternative 1 deviates from the Preferred route where it turns north further to the east to avoid an
area congested with pipelines and oil and gas facilities.It also diverges from the Preferred route through a
parcel owned by Anadarko and proposed for oil and gas development. This route would be preferable
from an engineering perspective because it would have fewer corners and fewer constraints,but was not
favored by the private majority landowner.
RESOLUTION USR14-0067
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Greenhouse—Davis Alternative 2
This route follows the Preferred route and Alternative 1 out of the Greenhouse Substation and follows
Alternative 1 to the north, east of the congested corridor. Rather than turn back to the west like the
Preferred route, Alternative 1 continues along the east side all the way to the Davis Substation. This
alternative was evaluated in order to provide an alternative route through a property owned by Anadarko
and proposed for oil and gas development. This route would also be preferable to Tri-State from an
engineering perspective because it would have fewer corners and fewer constraints;however, it was not
favored by the majority landowner as it crosses behind his house.
Greenhouse Substation to J.M. Shafer Substation (Greenhouse—J.M. Shafer)
A routing analysis was not conducted for the 230-kV tie-line between the new Greenhouse Substation and
the existing J.M.Shafer Substation because it is less than 0.1 mile long and it would be located entirely on
property owned by a Tri-State subsidiary.
Public Outreach
Tri-State and their contractor, HDR,contacted landowners along the Preferred and alternative routes per
ownership information derived from Weld County property records.This contact has been in various forms
including project introduction phone calls;project introduction and access permission letter mailings;and
project introduction and access permission meetings with landowners. In addition, negotiations are in
process with affected landowners to obtain Options for the purchase of easements along the Preferred
routes. Landowner contacts began in early April 2014 and are on-going.
The new 11.5 miles of transmission line would consist of approximately 79-124 structures. The structures
would be wood and steel pole construction spaced approximately 400-600 feet apart for the 115-kV lines
and 6,000-1,000 feet apart for the 230-kV line. Structures would primarily be single pole design,but wood
H-frame structures may be used at transmission line crossings or other areas where engineering design
indicates they are preferable. The transmission lines would have three conductors per circuit, an
overhead optical ground wire for internal Tri-State communications, and one shield wire. Steel
transmission poles would be set in concrete foundations.
Section 21-3-340.A.4--A satisfactory program to mitigate and minimize adverse impacts has been
presented.
Colorado Parks and Wildlife returned a referral indicating no conflicts with their interests, and the State
Historical Society did not return a referral response. The Project area is characterized by agricultural
lands, oil and gas development, and residential use. The surrounding vegetation is primarily disturbed
grassland. Permanent removal of vegetation would occur at structure sites.Vegetation has already been
permanently removed at the Greenhouse Substation for the historic greenhouses now demolished.
Construction would occur primarily in areas that have been previously disturbed, and impacts to native
vegetation communities are expected to be minimal. Most access would be overland or along existing
municipal or county roads and minimal vegetation would be disturbed from roads.
No drainages or wetlands would be impacted by the transmission lines or substation.
The agriculture areas are likely to support a variety of common wildlife such as coyote,fox,skunk,rabbits,
and various birds. There is no designated critical wildlife habitat in the vicinity of the project although
suitable habitat may exist for the state-listed Western burrowing owl.
Prior to construction, Tri-State will conduct surveys for migratory birds and Western Burrowing Owls (in
prairie dog towns in the vicinity of the transmission lines and substation).If any nests for migratory birds or
any listed species are found, appropriate construction timing limitations will be enforced, as feasible,
according to Colorado Parks and Wildlife recommendations.Where timing limitations or setback cannot be
applied due to timing constraints,other alternative mitigation measures would be considered and vetted
with CPW. If any federally-listed species are found, Tri-State will consult with the U.S. Fish and Wildlife
Service (USFWS) regarding avoidance and mitigation.
RESOLUTION USR14-0067
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PAGE 5
To preclude avian electrocutions and minimize collision risk,Tri-State would incorporate Avian Protection
Plan(APP)standards developed by the Avian Power Line Interaction Committee(APLIC 2006)and the
APP guidelines(APLIC and U.S.Fish and Wildlife Service[USFWS]2005)to protect birds on power lines,
as well as NESC-specified electric conductor clearances.
Project impacts to wildlife are expected to be minimal and limited to temporary disturbance from
construction activities.
As part of the project,Tri-State will conduct a Class I archaeological database search of the Project area,
as well as a Class III pedestrian survey on properties where survey permission has been granted and
where significant disturbance has previously not occurred.Any sites found to be eligible for listing on the
National Heritage Research Partnership(NRHP)will be spanned and avoided by the Project.There are no
areas of geologic importance in the vicinity of the project.
Section 21-3-340.A.5--The nature and location or expansion of the facility complies with all applicable
provisions of the master plan of this County, and other applicable regional, metropolitan, state and
national plans.
The preferred transmission line alignment and substation location is within the three mile referral area for
the City of Fort Lupton,the City of Brighton,the Town of Lochbuie and Adams County. The City of Fort
Lupton in their referral dated November 7, 2014; stated "A portion of this project is within Fort Lupton's
limits and is going through the City's public hearing process.Fort Lupton would like to ensure the project is
coordinated between the County and the City as the project moves forward and requests that a meeting
be scheduled with the Weld Planning Department." Planning staff discussed the timing issues with the
City concerning the permitting of the transmission line into and out of the Greenhouse substation located
within the corporate limits of the City.The City of Fort Lupton approved the proposal at their December 16,
2014 meeting. The City of Brighton, the Town of Lochbuie and Adams County did not respond.
Section 21-3-340.A.6 --The nature and location or expansion of the facility does not unduly or
unreasonably impact existing community services.
The applicant states careful site planning can be developed with only a localized loss of agricultural land
quality. Ground disturbance for the transmission line is generally limited to the area immediately around
the base of each pole. The substation would occur on lands previous removed from agricultural use for
historic greenhouses that have since be demolished. Agricultural practices could continue on adjacent
lands.
Approximately 68 construction workers would be employed during the course of the approximately 4-5
month construction period.
The Project would generate infrequent trips to the transmission line and substations during operation;
the line would be inspected annually and occasionally for maintenance.
No adverse effects on county roads are anticipated. Tri-State will work with the Weld County Public
Works Department to determine the appropriate access to the construction area. All mobile
construction equipment would be certified to operate on Interstate highways. There may be short
periods of time when traffic would be halted on County Roads to allow construction vehicles to enter and
exit the construction area. No improvements to Weld County roads would be required.
Given the relatively short construction schedule, the site will not generate significant demands on
community services such as the school district.
Section 21-3-340.A.7--The nature and location or expansion of the facility will not create an expansion of
the demand for government services beyond the reasonable capacity of the community or region to
provide such services, as determined by the Board of County Commissioners.
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It is anticipated that the Project would have a small beneficial impact to the nearby communities of
Brighton and Fort Lupton, and larger nearby communities of Loveland, Greeley, Longmont
and Thornton. Construction contractors, regardless of origin, would likely spend some money in
Cheyenne or Greeley for fuel, food, or other supplies. During the construction period, the local
economy may see a small influx of dollars and a small increase in sales tax revenue. The footprints of
the proposed structures would be the only land removed from current use. Land between the
transmission structures would remain available for farming, grazing, or other operations that do not
interfere with safe and reliable operation of the transmission line.
The Project area is located within District 1 of the Weld County Sheriffs Department and is within the
jurisdiction of the Greater Brighton and Fort Lupton Fire Protection Districts. Public roads are
maintained by the Weld County Department of Public Works and the respective municipalities. The
nearest hospital to the northern side of the Project area is in the City of Longmont (Longmont United
Hospital) and the nearest hospital to the southern side of the Project area is in the City of Westminster (St.
Anthony North Medical Pavilion). None of these services is expected to be affected, unless emergency
situations occur.
There are no adverse socioeconomic impacts associated with the Project. The Project would not
cause any residents or businesses to be displaced. The Project would generate additional tax revenue
for Weld County.
Section 21-3-340.A.8-- The facility site or expansion area is not in an area with general meteorological and
climatological conditions which would unreasonably interfere with or obstruct normal operations and
maintenance.
The proposed site was selected because it does not affect the meteorological and climatological
conditions.
Section 21-3-340.A.9--The nature and location of the facility or expansion will not adversely affect the
water rights of any upstream, downstream or agricultural users, adjacent communities or other water
users.
The application states that the project will not impact hydrologic flow of either surface of either surface
water or groundwater, nor will it affect groundwater recharge. Existing drainage patterns will be
preserved. Permanent facilities would not be located in stream channels, appropriately sized culverts will
be installed to maintain channel flow and morphology. The Project would have no impacts on vested
water rights. Construction water and water to suppress dust during construction activities would be trucked
into the site.
Section 21-3-340.A. 10--Adequate water supplies are available for facility needs.
Bottled water will be used during construction of the transmission line and substation.
Section 21-3-340.A. 11- The nature and location of the facility or expansion will not unduly interfere with
existing easements, rights-of-way, other utilities, canals, mineral claims or roads.
Agreements with holders of existing easements, rights-of-way, or utility, ditch, mineral or roads will be
obtained as appropriate once the Weld County permitting processes are complete.
Section 21-3-340.A. 12--Adequate electric, gas, telephone, water, sewage and other utilities exist or shall
be developed to service the site.
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This is an unmanned facility consisting of a new 230/115/69/34.5-Kilovolt(kV)substation;approximately 5
miles of 115-kV transmission line from Tri-State's existing Davis Substation to the new Greenhouse
Substation; less than 0.1 mile of new 230-kV tie-line between the new Greenhouse Substation and the
existing J.M.Shafer Substation;approximately 6.5 miles of single-circuit 230-kV transmission line from the
new Greenhouse Substation south to Tri-State's existing Henry Lake Substation,therefore utility services
are not required post construction.
Section 21-3-340.A.13-The nature and location for expansion of the facility will not unduly interfere with
any significant wildlife habitat or adversely affect any endangered wildlife species, unique natural resource
or historic landmark within the impact area.
Colorado Parks and Wildlife returned a referral indicating no conflicts with their interests, and the State
Historical Society did not return a referral response. The Project area is characterized by agricultural
lands, oil and gas development, and residential use. The surrounding vegetation is primarily disturbed
grassland.Permanent removal of vegetation would occur at structure sites.Vegetation has already been
permanently removed at the Greenhouse Substation for the historic greenhouses now demolished.
Construction would occur primarily in areas that have been previously disturbed, and impacts to native
vegetation communities are expected to be minimal. Most access would be overland or along existing
municipal or county roads and minimal vegetation would be disturbed from roads.
No drainages or wetlands would be impacted by the transmission lines or substation.
The agriculture areas are likely to support a variety of common wildlife such as coyote,fox,skunk, rabbits,
and various birds. There is no designated critical wildlife habitat in the vicinity of the project although
suitable habitat may exist for the state-listed Western burrowing owl.
Prior to construction, Tri-State will conduct surveys for migratory birds and Western Burrowing Owls(in
prairie dog towns in the vicinity of the transmission lines and substation).If any nests for migratory birds or
any listed species are found, appropriate construction timing limitations will be enforced, as feasible,
according to Colorado Parks and Wildlife recommendations.Where timing limitations or setback cannot be
applied due to timing constraints,other alternative mitigation measures would be considered and vetted
with CPW. If any federally-listed species are found,Tri-State will consult with the U.S. Fish and Wildlife
Service (USFWS) regarding avoidance and mitigation.
To preclude avian electrocutions and minimize collision risk,Tri-State would incorporate Avian Protection
Plan (APP)standards developed by the Avian Power Line Interaction Committee(APLIC 2006)and the
APP guidelines(APLIC and U.S.Fish and Wildlife Service[USFWS]2005)to protect birds on power lines,
as well as NESC-specified electric conductor clearances.
Project impacts to wildlife are expected to be minimal and limited to temporary disturbance from
construction activities.
As part of the project,Tri-State will conduct a Class I archaeological database search of the Project area,
as well as a Class III pedestrian survey on properties where survey permission has been granted and
where significant disturbance has previously not occurred.Any sites found to be eligible for listing on the
National Heritage Research Partnership(NRHP)will be spanned and avoided by the Project.There are no
areas of geologic importance in the vicinity of the project.
Section 21-3-340.A.14— The nature and location or expansion of the facility, including expected growth
and development related to the operation and provision of service,will not significantly deteriorate water or
air quality in the impact area.
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Construction would last approximately four to five months. Construction activities associated with the
proposed transmission line and substations would generate less than significant amounts of particulate
matter from soil disturbances and diesel-powered equipment, and less than significant amounts of
carbon monoxide and the precursor pollutants to ozone formation from tailpipe emissions. Any air
pollutants generated would be widely dispersed across the Project area, short term in duration, and
minimized by the small scale of construction operations for the substations, and excavating foundations
and placing single pole transmission structures. Air pollutants also would be minimized through
implementation of dust suppression and proper vehicle maintenance. Therefore, Project construction is
not expected to contribute to the air quality status in the area. There would be no long-term air quality
effects associated with routine operation and maintenance of the proposed transmission line and
substations. Once construction activities have been completed, but before vegetation has been re-
established, some minor amount of additional dust could occur. The generation of dust would be
monitored by Tri-State, and the appropriate action would be taken to control the dust and ensure that
potential wind erosion is minimized.
Weld County is an attainment area for all measured pollutants, including particulate matter smaller than
10 micrometers in diameter (PM 10). No air emissions would result from operation of the transmission
line or substations.
There would be no alteration in the pattern or intensity of surface drainage as a result of construction or
operation of the transmission line and substations.
Section 21-3-340.A.15 — The geological and topographic features of the site are adequate for all
construction, clearing, grading, drainage, vegetation and other needs of the facility construction or
expansion.
The vicinity of the Project site is characterized by agricultural purposes,oil and gas development,and rural
residences.The surrounding vegetation is primarily disturbed grassland.Permanent removal of vegetation
would occur at structure sites. Vegetation has already been permanently removed at the Greenhouse
Substation for the historic greenhouses. Construction would occur primarily in areas that have been
previously disturbed, and impacts to native vegetation communities are expected to be minimal.
Section 21-3-340.A.16—The existing water quality of affected state waters will not be degraded below state
and federal standards or established baseline levels.
There would be no direct impacts to water quality associated with the regular operation or maintenance of
the transmission line. The existing water quality of affected state waters will not be degraded below state
and federal standards or established baseline levels by the project.
Section 21-3-340.A.17 — The proposed project will not have a significantly adverse net effect on the
capacities or functioning of streams, lakes and reservoirs in the impact area, nor on the permeability,
volume, recharge capability and depth of aquifers in the impact area.
According to the application,construction and maintenance of the transmission line would not measurably
impact surface water or groundwater quality. Additionally,there would be no long-term impacts to surface
water or groundwater hydrology as a result of construction or operation of the transmission line.The Project
would not impact hydrologic flow of either surface water or groundwater, nor would it affect groundwater
recharge.
Further,subsurface drainage would not be impacted by the proposed transmission line.There would be no
direct impacts to water quality associated with regular operation or maintenance of the transmission line.
Project construction would not create runoff in excess of previous site levels and would not change existing
topography or adversely affect drainage.There would be no alteration in the pattern or intensity of surface
drainage as a result of construction or operation of the transmission line facility. Therefore, a Drainage
Report is not required.A range of measures ensuring the Project does not impact water quality is will be
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implemented prior to construction, including a Storm Water Permit for Construction Activities would be
acquired from the Colorado Department of Public Health and Environment.
Section 21-3-340.A.18— The benefits of the proposed developments outweigh the losses of any natural
resources or reduction of productivity of agricultural lands as a result of the proposed development.
The majority of the site consists of agricultural purposes, oil and gas development, and rural residences.
The facility will have limited impact on agricultural lands within the transmission line corridor project site and
minimal impact on future land use. Permanent facilities upon completion will only cover approximately 20
acres.
Section 21-3-340.A.19—The applicant has obtained or will obtain all property rights,permits and approvals
necessary for the proposed project, including surface, mineral and water rights and easements for
drainage, disposal, utilities, access, etc. if the applicant has not obtained all necessary property rights,
permits and approvals, the Board may, at its discretion,grant the permit conditioned upon completion of the
acquisition of such rights prior to issuance of a zoning or building permit by the County.
The application indicates that individual land lease agreements have been obtained or will be acquired
between Tri-State and the affected property owners. The applicant has obtained or will obtain all property
rights, permits and approvals necessary for the proposed project, including surface, mineral and water
rights and easements for drainage,disposal,utilities,access,et cetera,following approval by the Board of
County Commissioners.
Section 21-3-340.A.20—The proposed project(nonlinear facilities)will not present an unreasonable risk of
exposure to or release of toxic or hazardous substances within the impact area. The determination of
effects of the project shall include the following considerations:
a. The means by which outdoor storage facilities for fuel, raw materials,equipment and related items
are adequately enclosed by a fence or wall.
b. The likelihood of hazardous materials or wastes being moved off the site by natural causes or
forces.
c. Containment of inflammable or explosive liquids, solids or gases.
There would be temporary storage of construction materials at the proposed Project site. Construction,
operation, and maintenance activities would comply with all applicable federal,state, and local laws and
regulations regarding the use of hazardous substances. The only hazardous chemicals anticipated to be
used on site are those found in diesel fuel, gasoline, coolant (ethylene glycol), and lubricants in
machinery. Hazardous materials would not be drained onto the ground or into streams or drainage
areas. In its contract with the construction contractor, Tri-State will specify that it will hold a required
pre-construction meeting with the contractor to ensure that all applicable laws and Tri-State's
procedures will be followed.
Enclosed containment would be provided for all trash. All construction waste, including trash and litter,
garbage, other solid waste, petroleum products, and other potentially hazardous materials would be
removed to a disposal facility authorized to accept such materials. The Health Department is requiring
that a waste handling plan be submitted as a condition of approval.
Section 21-3-340.A.21 — The scope and nature of the proposed project will not unnecessarily duplicate
existing services within the County.
The scope and nature of the proposed project will not unnecessarily duplicate existing services within the
county. The proposed transmission line and associated new substation will address a specific demand for
electricity from twelve compressor facilities to meet their long term air attainment requirements. Further,
RESOLUTION USR14-0067
TRI-STATE GENERATION&TRANSMISSION, INC
PAGE 10
there is a vast development potential for oil and gas in this region, and this development is very dynamic
and evolving. Several different companies have indicated sizeable potential electrical loads in the area
beyond what is currently being considered. The applicant believes this line and associated substation will
serve the additional electrical loads in the area and would provide for future reliability needs and
operational flexibility under transmission contingencies, increasing the reliability to the loads in the area.
Section 21-3-340.A.22— If the purpose and need for the proposed project are to meet the needs of an
increasing population within the County,the area and community development plans and population trends
demonstrate clearly a need for such development.
The purpose of the new transmission line and substation is to provide electric service the oil field and
anticipated residential development with electric energy that is reliable and operates efficiently while helping to
ensure an adequate and dependable supply of electrical powerto meet the needs of for future development.
This recommendation for a new 230/115/69/34.5-Kilovolt (kV) substation, approximately 5 miles of 115-kV
transmission line and approximately 6.5 miles of 235kV transmission line is based, in part, upon a review of the
application materials submitted by the applicant,other relevant information regarding the request,and responses
from referral entities.
The Planning Commission recommendation for approval is conditional upon the following:
1. Prior to recording the map:
A. The applicant shall address the comments from the Department of Planning Services -
Engineer as stated in the referral dated November 13,2014.(Department of Planning Services)
B. A copy of the signed and recorded(construction and post-construction)easement agreements
(or other acceptable authorization from property owners)shall be submitted to the Department
of Planning Services. (Department of Planning Services)
C. The applicant shall submit an application with the FAA for a"Determination of No Hazard to Air
Navigation"for the Greenhouse—Davis Substation transmission line due to its proximity to the
Platte Valley Airpark. Evidence of such shall be submitted to the Department of Planning
Services. (Department of Planning Services)
D. County Road 4 has been annexed by the City of Brighton. The City has jurisdiction over all
accesses within their jurisdiction. Please contact City to verify the access permit or for any
additional requirement that may be needed to obtain or upgrade the permit. (Department of
Planning Services—Engineer)
E. County Road 14 and 16 have been annexed by the City of Fort Lupton.The City has jurisdiction
over all accesses within their jurisdiction. Please contact the City to verify the access permit or
for any additional requirement that may be needed to obtain or upgrade the permit.
(Department of Planning Services—Engineer)
F. The Colorado Department of Transportation (CDOT)has jurisdiction over all accesses to the
state highways. Please contact CDOT to verify the access permit or for any additional
requirement that may be needed to obtain or upgrade the permit (SH52). (Department of
Planning Services— Engineer)
G The map shall be amended to delineate the following:
A. All sheets of the map shall be labeled USR14-0067.(Department of Planning Services)
RESOLUTION USR14-0067
TRI-STATE GENERATION &TRANSMISSION, INC
PAGE 11
B. The map shall be prepared in accordance with Section 23-2-260.D of the Weld County
Code. (Department of Planning Services)
C. The attached Development Standards. (Department of Planning Services)
D. The final location of the permanent 100 to 150 foot transmission line easement with
dimension of permanent right-of-way, property ownership, parcel number, all
easements of record, and all physical encumbrances. (Department of Planning
Services)
5. County Roads 6, 10, 12, 18, and 20 are designated on the Weld County Road
Classification Plan as gravel local roads, which require 60 feet of right-of-way at full
build out. The applicant shall verify the existing right-of-way and the documents
creating the right-of-way and this information shall be noted on the map. All setbacks
shall be measured from the edge of future right-of-way. These roads are maintained
by Weld County. (Department of Planning Services—Engineer)
6. County Road 8 is designated on the Weld County Road Classification Plan as a
collector road,which requires 80 feet of right-of-way at full build out.There is presently
60 feet of right-of-way.An additional 10 feet shall be delineated on the plat as future
County Road 8 right-of-way. All setbacks shall be measured from the edge of future
right-of-way. The applicant shall verify the existing right-of-way and the documents
creating the right-of-way and this information shall be noted on the plat. If the right-of-
way cannot be verified,it shall be dedicated. This road is maintained by Weld County
(Department of Planning Services—Engineer)
7. County Road 22 is designated on the Weld County Road Classification Plan as a
arterial road,which requires 140 feet of right-of-way at full build out.There is presently
60 feet of right-of-way.An additional 40 feet shall be delineated on the plat as future
County Road 22 right-of-way.All setbacks shall be measured from the edge of future
right-of-way. The applicant shall verify the existing right-of-way and the documents
creating the right-of-way and this information shall be noted on the plat. If the right-of-
way cannot be verified,it shall be dedicated. This road is maintained by Weld County.
(Department of Planning Services—Engineer)
8. There is 30 feet of unmaintained County section line right-of-way along County Road
33 Section Line which must be delineated on the map. The applicant shall verify the
existing right-of-way and the documents creating the right-of-way and this information
shall be noted on the map. (Department of Planning Services—Engineer)
9. Please delineate the Davis,Henry Lake and proposed Greenhouse substation sites to
be utilized for the base of operations and construction staging areas associated with
this application. (Department of Planning Services)
10. The applicant shall verify the existing or vacated right-of-way and the documents
creating or vacating the right-of-way and this information shall be noted on the map
(County Road 14.5, County Road 31.25, County Road 33 and County Road 33.5).
(Department of Planning Services—Engineer)
11. Show the Weld County approved access(es)on the map and label with the approved
access permit number(will be provided)(Department of Planning Services—Engineer)
12. Label the approved City of Brighton and City of Fort Lupton accesses on the map with
access permit number if applicable. (Department of Planning Services—Engineer)
RESOLUTION USR14-0067
TRI-STATE GENERATION&TRANSMISSION, INC
PAGE 12
13. The Colorado Department of Transportation(CDOT)has jurisdiction over all accesses
to state highways. Show the approved CDOT accesses on the map and label with
access permit number if applicable (SH 52). (Department of Planning Services —
Engineer)
14. Show and label standard tracking control onto publically maintained roadways on the
map. (Department of Planning Services—Engineer)
15. The applicant shall attempt to address the requirements of the Anadarko Land
Corporation, Anadarko E&P OnShore, LLC and leasehold interests owned by Kerr-
McGee Oil&Gas OnShore, LP as stated in their letter dated November 10,2014 and
submit evidence of an agreement to the Department of planning Services. Alternately,
the applicant can provide evidence that they are not subject to these requirements.
(Department of Planning Services)
16. The applicant shall attempt to address the requirements of the Fort Lupton Fire
Protection District as stated in their referral dated October 14,2014. Evidence of such
shall be submitted to the Department of Planning Services. (Department of Planning
Services)
2. One month prior to construction activities:
A. Contact the Permitting/Inspection agent for Weld County Public Works, for a Right-of-Way
permit for any work that may be required in the right-of-way.A special transport permit will be
required for any oversized or overweight vehicles that may access the site and may also be
obtained through the same office. (Department of Planning Services—Engineer)
B. A vehicle tracking pad will be required at all crossings to keep from tracking mud or debris on to
Weld County roads, and at the substation location. (Department of Planning Services —
Engineer)
C. If more than 1 acre is to be disturbed for construction of non linear transmission line items such
as structures,parking lots, laydown yards etc...,a Weld County grading permit will be required
prior to the start of construction. (Department of Planning Services—Engineer)
D. The applicant shall submit evidence of an Air Pollution Emission Notice (APEN) application
from the Air Pollution Control Division, Colorado Department of Health and Environment.
Alternately, the applicant can provide evidence from the APCD that they are not subject to
these requirements. (Department of Public Health and Environment)
3. The applicant shall submit one(1)paper copy or one(1)electronic(.pdf)copy of the map for preliminary
approval to the Weld County Department of Planning Services. (Department of Planning Services)
4. Upon completion of Conditions of Approval numbers 1 and 2,above the applicant shall submit a Mylar
map along with all other documentation required as Conditions of Approval. The Mylar map shall be
recorded in the office of the Weld County Clerk and Recorder by Department of Planning Services'
Staff. The map shall be prepared in accordance with the requirements of Section 23-2-390 of the Weld
County Code. The Mylar map and additional requirements shall be submitted within one hundred
twenty(120)days from the date of the Board of County Commissioners resolution.The applicant shall
be responsible for paying the recording fee. (Department of Planning Services)
5. In accordance with Weld County Code Ordinance 2005-7 approved June 1,2005,should the map not
be recorded within the required one hundred twenty (120) days from the date the Board of County
Commissioners Resolution was signed a$50.00 recording continuance charge may be added for each
additional 3 month period.
RESOLUTION USR14-0067
TRI-STATE GENERATION &TRANSMISSION, INC
PAGE 13
6. The Department of Planning Services respectively requests the surveyor provide a digital copy of this
Use by Special Review. Acceptable CAD formats are .dwg, .dxf, and .dgn (Microstation); acceptable
GIS formats are ArcView shapefiles, Arclnfo Coverages and Arclnfo Export files format type is .e00.
The preferred format for Images is .tif(Group 4). (Group 6 is not acceptable). This digital file may be
sent to maps(a�co.weld.co.us. (Department of Planning Services)
7. The Use by Special Review activity shall not occur nor shall any building or electrical permits be issued
on the property until the Special Review map is ready to be recorded in the office of the Weld County
Clerk and Recorder. (Department of Planning Services)
Motion seconded by Bruce Sparrow.
VOTE:
For Passage Against Passage Absent
Benjamin Hansford
Bruce Johnson
Bruce Sparrow
Jason Maxey
Jordan Jemiola
Joyce Smock
Michael Wailes
Nick Berryman
Terry Cross
The Chair declared the resolution passed and ordered that a certified copy be forwarded with the file of this case
to the Board of County Commissioner's for further proceedings.
CERTIFICATION OF COPY
I, Kristine Ranslem, Recording Secretary for the Weld County Planning Commission,do hereby certify that the
above and foregoing resolution is a true copy of the resolution of the Planning Commission of Weld County,
Colorado, adopted on January 20, 2015.
Dated the 20th of January, 2015.
Digitally signed by Kristine
4 Ranslem
Date:2015.01.21 10:14:57-07'00'
Kristine Ranslem
Secretary
SITE SPECIFIC DEVELOPMENT PLAN
SPECIAL REVIEW PERMIT
DEVELOPMENT STANDARDS
Tri-State Generation and Transmission, Inc.
USR14-0067
1. A Site Specific Development Plan And Special Review Permit for a Major Facility of a Public Utility--a
new 230/115/69/34.5-Kilovolt (kV) substation located adjacent to Tri-State's existing J.M. Shafer
Generating Station called the Greenhouse Substation;approximately 5 miles of 115-kV transmission
line from Tri-State's existing Davis Substation to the new Greenhouse Substation;less than 0.1 mile
of new 230-kV tie-line between the new Greenhouse Substation and the existing J.M. Shafer
Substation; approximately 6.5 miles of single-circuit 230-kV transmission line from the new
Greenhouse Substation south to Tri-State's existing Henry Lake Substation,subject to the provisions
of Section 23-3-420 of the Weld County Code, and facility construction laydown yards at the Henry
Lake, Davis and Greenhouse Substations (consisting of two construction trailers, multiple storage
containers, and other associated equipment) in the A (Agricultural) Zone District, subject to the
Development Standards stated hereon, - Tri-State Generation & Transmission Association /
Southwest Weld Expansion Project Phase I (Department of Planning Services)
2. Approval of this plan may create a vested property right pursuant to Section 23-8-10 of the Weld
County Code. (Department of Planning Services)
3. A vehicle tracking pad will be required at all crossings to keep from tracking mud or debris on to Weld
County roads, and at the substation location. (Department of Planning Services)
4. The historical flow patterns and runoff amounts will be maintained on site. (Department of Planning
Services-Engineer)
5. There shall be no parking or staging of vehicles on County Roads. On-site parking shall be utilized.
(Department of Planning Services- Engineer)
6. Should noxious weeds exist on the property or become established as a result of the proposed
development, the applicant/landowner shall be responsible for controlling the noxious weeds,
pursuant to Section 15-1-180 of the Weld County Code.(Department of Planning Services-Engineer)
7. The contractor will utilize a location near the Davis Substation,Henry Lake and proposed Greenhouse
substation sites for its base of operations and construction staging areas. (Department of Planning
Services)
8. A Right-of-Way Permit will be required at each County Road crossing, along with approved signing
details. (Department of Planning Services)
9. Construction office trailers and storage trailers and electrical services to the trailers are subject to
building permits per Section 29-3-10 of the Weld County Code. (Department of Building Inspection)
10. All liquid and solid wastes (as defined in the Solid Wastes Disposal Sites and Facilities Act,
30-20-100.5, C.R.S., as amended) shall be stored and removed for final disposal in a manner that
protects against surface and groundwater contamination. (Department of Public Health and
Environment)
11. No permanent disposal of wastes shall be permitted at this site. This is not meant to include those
wastes specifically excluded from the definition of a solid waste in the Solid Wastes Disposal Sites
and Facilities Act,30-20-100.5,C.R.S.,as amended.(Department of Public Health and Environment)
12. Waste materials shall be handled, stored, and disposed in a manner that controls fugitive dust,
fugitive particulate emissions, blowing debris, and other potential nuisance conditions. The facility
shall operate in accordance with the approved "waste handling plan", at all times. (Department of
Public Health and Environment)
RESOLUTION USR14-0067
TRI-STATE GENERATION&TRANSMISSION, INC
PAGE 15
13. Fugitive dust and fugitive particulate emissions shall be controlled along the construction route. The
facility shall operate in accordance with the approved "dust abatement plan", at all times.
(Department of Public Health and Environment)
14. Adequate toilet facilities(portable toilets)and handwashing units shall be provided during construction
of the project. (Department of Public Health and Environment)
15. Environmental Protection Measures for Construction Projects, as identified in Appendix C of the
application, shall be adhered to by Tri-State Generation and Transmission and successors.
(Department of Public Health and Environment)
16. This facility shall adhere to the maximum permissible noise levels allowed in the Non-Specified Zone
as delineated in Section 14-9-30 of the Weld County Code. (Department of Public Health and
Environment)
17. The operation shall comply with all applicable rules and regulations of the State and Federal agencies
and the Weld County Code. (Department of Public Health and Environment)
18. Building Permits issued on the proposed lots will be required to adhere to the fee structure of the
County-wide Road Impact Fee Program. (Department of Planning Services)
19. Building Permits issued on the proposed lots, will be required to adhere to the fee structure of the
County Facility Fee and Drainage Impact Fee Programs. (Department of Planning Services)
20. The property owner or operator shall be responsible for complying with the Design Standards of
Section 23-2-240,Weld County Code. (Department of Planning Services)
21. The property owner or operator shall be responsible for complying with the Operation Standards of
Section 23-2-250,Weld County Code. (Department of Planning Services)
22. Necessary personnel from the Weld County Departments of Planning Services, Public Works, and
Public Health and Environment shall be granted access onto the property at any reasonable time in
order to ensure the activities carried out on the property comply with the Conditions of Approval and
Development Standards stated herein and all applicable Weld County regulations. (Department of
Planning Services)
23. The Use by Special Review area shall be limited to the plans shown hereon and governed by the
foregoing standards and all applicable Weld County regulations. Substantial changes from the plans
or Development Standards as shown or stated shall require the approval of an amendment of the
Permit by the Weld County Board of County Commissioners before such changes from the plans or
Development Standards are permitted. Any other changes shall be filed in the office of the
Department of Planning Services. (Department of Planning Services)
24. The property owner or operator shall be responsible for complying with all of the foregoing
Development Standards. Noncompliance with any of the foregoing Development Standards may be
reason for revocation of the Permit by the Board of County Commissioners. (Department of Planning
Services)
25. WELD COUNTY'S RIGHT TO FARM: Weld County is one of the most productive agricultural
counties in the United States, typically ranking in the top ten counties in the country in total market
value of agricultural products sold. The rural areas of Weld County may be open and spacious, but
they are intensively used for agriculture. Persons moving into a rural area must recognize and accept
there are drawbacks,including conflicts with long-standing agricultural practices and a lower level of
services than in town. Along with the drawbacks come the incentives which attract urban dwellers to
relocate to rural areas: open views,spaciousness,wildlife,lack of city noise and congestion,and the
rural atmosphere and way of life. Without neighboring farms, those features which attract urban
dwellers to rural Weld County would quickly be gone forever.
RESOLUTION USR14-0067
TRI-STATE GENERATION&TRANSMISSION, INC
PAGE 16
Agricultural users of the land should not be expected to change their long-established agricultural
practices to accommodate the intrusions of urban users into a rural area. Well-run agricultural
activities will generate off-site impacts,including noise from tractors and equipment;slow-moving farm
vehicles on rural roads;dust from animal pens,field work,harvest and gravel roads;odor from animal
confinement, silage and manure; smoke from ditch burning; flies and mosquitoes; hunting and
trapping activities; shooting sports, legal hazing of nuisance wildlife; and the use of pesticides and
fertilizers in the fields, including the use of aerial spraying. It is common practice for agricultural
producers to utilize an accumulation of agricultural machinery and supplies to assist in their
agricultural operations. A concentration of miscellaneous agricultural materials often produces a
visual disparity between rural and urban areas of the County. Section 35-3.5-102, C.R.S., provides
that an agricultural operation shall not be found to be a public or private nuisance if the agricultural
operation alleged to be a nuisance employs methods or practices that are commonly or reasonably
associated with agricultural production.
Water has been, and continues to be, the lifeline for the agricultural community. It is unrealistic to
assume that ditches and reservoirs may simply be moved"out of the way"of residential development.
When moving to the County,property owners and residents must realize they cannot take water from
irrigation ditches, lakes, or other structures, unless they have an adjudicated right to the water.
Weld County covers a land area of approximately four thousand (4,000)square miles in size (twice
the size of the State of Delaware)with more than three thousand seven hundred(3,700)miles of state
and county roads outside of municipalities. The sheer magnitude of the area to be served stretches
available resources. Law enforcement is based on responses to complaints more than on patrols of
the County,and the distances which must be traveled may delay all emergency responses,including
law enforcement, ambulance, and fire. Fire protection is usually provided by volunteers who must
leave their jobs and families to respond to emergencies. County gravel roads, no matter how often
they are bladed,will not provide the same kind of surface expected from a paved road. Snow removal
priorities mean that roads from subdivisions to arterials may not be cleared for several days after a
major snowstorm. Services in rural areas,in many cases,will not be equivalent to municipal services.
Rural dwellers must, by necessity, be more self-sufficient than urban dwellers.
People are exposed to different hazards in the County than in an urban or suburban setting. Farm
equipment and oil field equipment,ponds and irrigation ditches,electrical power for pumps and center
pivot operations,high speed traffic,sandburs,puncture vines,territorial farm dogs and livestock,and
open burning present real threats. Controlling children's activities is important, not only for their
safety, but also for the protection of the farmer's livelihood.
SUMMARY OF THE WELD COUNTY PLANNING COMMISSION MEETING
Tuesday, January 20, 2015
A regular meeting of the Weld County Planning Commission was held in the Weld County Administration
Building, Hearing Room, 1150 O Street, Greeley, Colorado. This meeting was called to order by Chair,
Jason Maxey, at 1:30 pm.
Roll Call.
Present: Bruce Johnson, Bruce Sparrow, Jason Maxey, Jordan Jemiola, Joyce Smock, Michael Wailes.
Absent/Excused: Benjamin Hansford, Nick Berryman,Terry Cross.
Also Present: Kim Ogle, Diana Aungst, and Steve Elkins, Department of Planning Services; Jennifer
Petrik, Department of Public Works; Lauren Light, Department of Health; Brad Yatabe, County Attorney,
and Kris Ranslem, Secretary.
Motion: Approve the January 6, 2015 Weld County Planning Commission minutes, Moved by Bruce
Sparrow, Seconded by Joyce Smock. Motion passed unanimously.
CASE NUMBER: USR14-0067
APPLICANT: TRI-STATE GENERATION &TRANSMISSION, INC
PLANNER: KIM OGLE
REQUEST: A SITE SPECIFIC DEVELOPMENT PLAN AND USE BY SPECIAL REVIEW
PERMIT FOR A MAJOR FACILITY OF A PUBLIC UTILITY OR PUBLIC
AGENCY (A NEW 230/115/69/34.5-KILOVOLT (KV) SUBSTATION LOCATED
ADJACENT TO TRI-STATE'S EXISTING J.M. SHAFER GENERATING
STATION CALLED THE GREENHOUSE SUBSTATION; APPROXIMATELY 5
MILES OF 115-KV TRANSMISSION LINE FROM TRI-STATE'S EXISTING
DAVIS SUBSTATION TO THE NEW GREENHOUSE SUBSTATION ; LESS
THAN 0.1 MILE OF NEW 230-KV TIE-LINE BETWEEN THE NEW
GREENHOUSE SUBSTATION AND THE EXISTING J.M. SHAFER
SUBSTATION; APPROXIMATELY 6.5 MILES OF SINGLE-CIRCUIT 230-KV
TRANSMISSION LINE FROM THE NEW GREENHOUSE SUBSTATION
SOUTH TO TRI-STATE'S EXISTING HENRY LAKE SUBSTATION, SUBJECT
TO THE PROVISIONS OF SECTION 23-3-420 OF THE WELD COUNTY CODE,
AND FACILITY CONSTRUCTION LAYDOWN YARDS AT THE HENRY LAKE,
DAVIS AND GREENHOUSE SUBSTATIONS (CONSISTING OF TWO
CONSTRUCTION TRAILERS, MULTIPLE STORAGE CONTAINERS, AND
OTHER ASSOCIATED EQUIPMENT) IN THE A (AGRICULTURAL) ZONE
DISTRICT.
LEGAL DESCRIPTION: COMMENCING AT THE HENRY LAKE SUBSTATION LOCATED IN SECTION
27,TOWNSHIP 1 NORTH,RANGE 66 WEST HEADING NORTH INTO SECTION
22, 15, 10, 3 TOWNSHIP 1 NORTH, RANGE 66 WEST TO THE GREENHOUSE
SUBSTATION LOCATED IN SECTION 34 TOWNSHIP 2 NORTH, RANGE 66
WEST CONTINUING NORTH INTO SECTION 35,26,23 AND TERMINATING AT
THE DAVIS SUBSTATION LOCATED IN SECTION 14 TOWNSHIP 2 NORTH,
RANGE 66 WEST OF THE 6TH P.M.WELD COUNTY COLORADO
LOCATION: GENERALLY LOCATED SOUTH OF AND ADJACENT TO CR 22;WEST OF CR
35;EAST OF CR 31 AND NORTH OF AND ADJACENT TO CR 4.
Commissioner Maxey stated that he would like to excuse himself from this case. His employer, United
Power, is a member of Tri-State Generation and Transmission and this case is located entirely in United
Power's territory.
Kim Ogle, Planning Services, presented Case USR14-0067, reading the recommendation and comments
into the record. Mr. Ogle noted that one (1) letter was received from a developer for the Aristocrat 3r°
Filing with concerns on the alignment. The Department of Planning Services recommends approval of
this application with the attached conditions of approval and development standards.
Jennifer Petrik, Engineering, reported on the existing traffic, access and drainage conditions and the
requirements on site. EXHIBIT
113
U , MI
Lauren Light, Environmental Health, reviewed the public water and sanitary sewer requirements, on-site
dust control, and the Waste Handling Plan.
Selina Koler, Tri-State Generation and Transmission, 1100 W 116th Avenue, Westminister, Colorado,
stated that this is proposed as a phasing project. Phase 2 will take a little more time in routing and added
that they hope to present it later this year. Ms. Koler provided a description of the line, poles, routing and
substation associated with this project. The routing is determined by residences, agricultural uses, oil and
gas wells and tanks, other pipelines, and property lines.
The Chair asked if there was anyone in the audience who wished to speak for or against this application.
No one wished to speak.
The Chair asked the applicant if they have read through the Development Standards and Conditions of
Approval and if they are in agreement with those. The applicant replied that they are in agreement.
Motion: Forward Case USR14-0067 to the Board of County Commissioners along with the Conditions of
Approval and Development Standards with the Planning Commission's recommendation of approval,
Moved by Bruce Johnson, Seconded by Bruce Sparrow.
Vote: Motion passed (summary: Yes = 5, No = 0, Abstain = 1 ).
Yes: Bruce Johnson, Bruce Sparrow, Jordan Jemiola, Joyce Smock, Michael Wailes.
Abstain : Jason Maxey.
The Chair asked the public if there were other items of business that they would like to discuss. No one
wished to speak.
The Chair asked the Planning Commission members if there was any new business to discuss. No one
wished to speak.
Meeting adjourned at 2:26 pm.
Respectfully submitted,
Digitally signed by Kristine Ranslem
Date: 2015 .01 .21 10:04:51 -07'00'
Kristine Ranslem
Secretary
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