HomeMy WebLinkAbout20- BSF cash in lieu DocuSign Envelope ID: B1472DF0-FAC5-4529-AB4A-F9BF6F8B95AC
GRANT AGREEMENT
BRIDGER SKI FOUNDATION
THIS AGREEMENT is made and entered into this 15 day of December, 2020 by and between the
City of Bozeman, Montana, a self-governing municipal corporation located at 121 N. Rouse
Ave., Bozeman MT 59771 ("City") as GRANTOR and Bridger Ski Foundation, a nonprofit
Montana corporation with a mailing address of P.O. Box 1243, Bozeman MT ("BSF") as
GRANTEE. BSF and the City may also hereafter be referred to as "Parties".
WHEREAS, on October 17, 2005 the Bozeman City Commission adopted Resolution No. 3866
establishing policies for the granting of funds from the City of Bozeman to a requesting entity;
and
WHEREAS, on May 18, 2020 the City Commission approved a license agreement between the
Parties for construction, maintenance and operation of improvements on property owned by
the City, recorded with the Gallatin County Clerk and Recorder as document number 2687829
("License"); and
WHEREAS, Section 38.420.030.E., BMC establishes criteria for the use of cash-in-lieu of parkland
(CILP); and
WHEREAS, the Parks and Recreation Department has established requirements and procedures
for submittal and review of CILP applications; and
WHEREAS, GRANTEE submitted a proposal to the City Commission for a grant of$150,000 for
reimbursement of certain expenses for constructing and installing snowmaking equipment at
Sunset Hills Cemetery Open Space (the "Project"); and
WHEREAS, on October 27, 2020, the Commission approved the grant request.
THE PARTIES AGREE:
1. The Grant. The City will grant and release to GRANTEE a sum of up to one hundred fifty
thousand dollars ($150,000) from its Park Land Trust Fund (the "Grant") pursuant to the
payment terms in Section 4.
2. Use of Grant Funds. Grant funds in the amount of up to one hundred fifty thousand
dollars ($150,000) will be used by GRANTEE for the sole purpose of reimbursing Project
expenses incurred by GRANTEE, as described in the proposal submitted by GRANTEE to
the City Commission, attached hereto as Exhibit A and by this reference incorporated
herein.
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3. Term. The term of this Agreement will commence on the Effective Date and expire on
June 30, 2021 unless earlier terminated as provided herein.
4. Payment of Grant Funds
a. Payment of Grant funds is contingent on GRANTEE'S compliance with the
approved site plan, application 19214.
b. GRANTEE may request the Grant funds as reimbursement of City approved
Project expenses paid by GRANTEE. A request for Grant funds must be
submitted in writing with proof of expenses paid. Acceptable forms of proof of
payment shall be as determined in the sole discretion of the City's Director of
Finance.
c. GRANTEE may not request the Grant funds as reimbursement for funds provided
by another entity or fundraised through its own programs
d. Any funds from the Grant not requested during the fiscal year ending June 30,
2021 will remain in the City's Park Land Trust Fund and will be available for other
appropriation.
e. The City will have no obligation to pay any Grant funds unless at the time of the
reimbursement request (i) all of GRANTEE's representations as set forth in
Section 5 are true and correct, and (ii) GRANTEE is not in breach of any term of
this Agreement. If any of the above conditions are not satisfied in the
determination of the City, the City shall have no obligation to pay any Grant
funds and the City's determination to refrain from paying, or its inability to pay,
any Grant funds shall not be or result in a default of this Agreement.
5. Grantee's Representations
a. GRANTEE has familiarized itself with the nature and extent of this Agreement
and with all local conditions and federal, state and local laws, ordinances, rules,
and regulations that in any manner may affect GRANTEE's performance under
this Agreement.
b. GRANTEE represents and warrants to City that they have the experience and
ability to perform its obligations under this Agreement; that they will perform
said obligations in a professional, competent and timely manner and with
diligence and skill; that they have the power to enter into and perform this
Agreement and grant the rights granted in it; and that its performance of this
Agreement shall not infringe upon or violate the rights of any third party,
whether rights of copyright, trademark, privacy, publicity, libel, slander or any
other rights of any nature whatsoever, or violate any federal, state and
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municipal laws. The City will not determine or exercise control as to general
procedures or formats necessary for GRANTEE to meet this warranty.
c. GRANTEE represents and warrants to City that the Grant funds are necessary to
accomplish the financial requirements of the Project.
6. Reports/Accountability/Public Information. If Grant funds are paid to GRANTEE,
GRANTEE will provide to the City a formal written report that includes, at a minimum,
the proof of expenses paid. GRANTEE agree to develop and/or provide such other
documentation as requested by the City demonstrating GRANTEE' compliance with the
requirements of this Agreement. GRANTEE must allow the City, its auditors, and other
persons authorized by the City to inspect and copy its books and records for the purpose
of verifying that monies provided to GRANTEE pursuant to this Agreement were used in
compliance with this Agreement and all applicable provisions of federal, state, and local
law. GRANTEE will retain such records for seven years after receipt of final payment
under this Agreement unless permission to destroy them is granted by the City.
GRANTEE shall not issue any statements, releases or information for public
dissemination without prior approval of the City.
7. Independent Contractor Status. The parties agree that GRANTEE, its agents,
employees, contractors, or subcontractors, are independent contractors for purposes of
this Agreement and are not to be considered employees or agents of the City for any
purpose. GRANTEE and its agents, employees, contractors, or subcontractors, are not
subject to the terms and provisions of the City's personnel policies handbook and may
not be considered a City employee for workers' compensation or any other purpose.
GRANTEE, its agents, employees, contractors, or subcontractors, are not authorized to
represent the City or otherwise bind the City in any way.
8. Default and Termination. If GRANTEE fails to comply with any condition of this
Agreement at the time or in the manner provided for, the City may terminate this
Agreement if the default is not cured within fifteen (15) days after written notice is
provided to GRANTEE. The notice will set forth the items to be cured. If this Agreement
is terminated pursuant to this Section, GRANTEE will repay to the City any Grant funds
already delivered to GRANTEE for the Project.
9. Limitation on GRANTEE's Damages;Time for Asserting Claim
a. In the event of a claim for damages by GRANTEE under this Agreement,
GRANTEE's damages shall be limited to contract damages and GRANTEE hereby
expressly waives any right to claim or recover consequential, special, punitive,
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lost business opportunity, lost productivity, field office overhead, general
conditions costs, or lost profits damages of any nature or kind.
b. In the event GRANTEE wants to assert a claim for damages of any kind or nature,
GRANTEE must first provide City with written notice of its claim, the facts and
circumstances surrounding and giving rise to the claim, and the total amount of
damages sought by the claim, within ninety (90) days of the facts and
circumstances giving rise to the claim. In the event GRANTEE fails to provide
such notice, GRANTEE shall waive all rights to assert such claim.
10. Representatives
a. City's Representative. The City's Representative for the purpose of this
Agreement shall be Addi Jadin, Parks Planning and Development Manager, or
such other individual as City shall designate in writing. Whenever approval or
authorization from or communication or submission to City is required by this
Agreement, such communication or submission shall be directed to the City's
Representative and approvals or authorizations shall be issued only by such
Representative; provided, however, that in exigent circumstances when City's
Representative is not available, GRANTEE may direct its communication or
submission to other designated City personnel or agents and may receive
approvals or authorization from such persons.
b. GRANTEE' Representative. GRANTEE's Representative for the purpose of this
Agreement shall be Evan Weiss, Executive Director or such other individual as
GRANTEE shall designate in writing. Whenever direction to or communication
with GRANTEE is required by this Agreement, such direction or communication
shall be directed to GRANTEE's Representative; provided, however, that in
exigent circumstances when GRANTEE's Representative is not available, City may
direct its direction or communication to other designated GRANTEE personnel or
agents.
11. Permits and Compliance With Laws. GRANTEE will obtain, in a timely manner, all
required permits, licenses and approvals, and will meet all requirements of all local,
state and federal laws, rules and regulations which must be obtained or met in
connection with construction of the Project.
12. Indemnity/Waiver of Claims/Insurance. To the fullest extent permitted by law,
GRANTEE agrees to defend, indemnify and hold the City and its agents, representatives,
employees, and officers (collectively referred to for purposes of this Section as the City)
harmless against all third party claims, demands, suits, damages, losses, and expenses,
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including reasonable defense attorney fees, which arise out of, relate to or result from
GRANTEE's (i) negligence, or (ii) willful or reckless misconduct.
Such obligations shall not be construed to negate, abridge, or reduce other rights or
obligations of indemnity that would otherwise exist. The indemnification obligations of
this Section must not be construed to negate, abridge, or reduce any common-law or
statutory rights of the indemnitee(s) which would otherwise exist as to such
indemnitee(s). GRANTEE's indemnification obligations under this Section shall be
without regard to and without any right to contribution from any insurance maintained
by City.
Should any indemnitee described herein be required to bring an action against GRANTEE
to assert its right to defense or indemnification under this Agreement or under
GRANTEE's applicable insurance policies required below the indemnitee shall be entitled
to recover reasonable costs and attorney fees incurred in asserting its right to
indemnification or defense but only if a court of competent jurisdiction determines
GRANTEE was obligated to defend the claim(s) or was obligated to indemnify the
indemnitee for a claim(s) or any portion(s) thereof.
In the event of an action filed against City resulting from the City's performance under
this Agreement, the City may elect to represent itself and incur all costs and expenses of
suit.
GRANTEE also waive any and all claims and recourse against the City or its officers,
agents or employees, including the right of contribution for loss or damage to person or
property arising from, growing out of, or in any way connected with or incident to the
performance of this Agreement except "responsibility for his own fraud, for willful injury
to the person or property of another, or for violation of law, whether willful or
negligent" as per 28-2-702, MCA.
These obligations shall survive termination of this Agreement.
In addition to and independent from the above, GRANTEE shall at GRANTEE's expense
secure insurance coverage through an insurance company or companies duly licensed
and authorized to conduct insurance business in Montana which insures the liabilities
and obligations specifically assumed by GRANTEE in this Section. The insurance coverage
shall not contain any exclusion for liabilities specifically assumed by GRANTEE in this
Section unless and to the extent coverage for such liability is not reasonably available.
The insurance shall cover and apply to all claims, demands, suits, damages, losses, and
expenses that may be asserted or claimed against, recovered from, or suffered by the
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City without limit and without regard to the cause therefore and which is acceptable to
the City and GRANTEE shall furnish to the City an accompanying certificate of insurance
and accompanying endorsements in amounts not less than as follows:
• Workers' Compensation—statutory;
• Employers' Liability- $1,000,000 per occurrence; $2,000,000 annual aggregate;
• Commercial General Liability- $1,000,000 per occurrence; $2,000,000 annual
aggregate
• Property Coverage— in an amount sufficient to provide replacement cost of
buildings and other improvements and personal property BSF installs or stores
pursuant to the License
The City of Bozeman, its officers, agents, and employees, shall be endorsed as an
additional or named insured on a primary non-contributory basis on the Commercial
General Liability policy. The insurance and required endorsements must be in a form
suitable to City and shall include no less than a thirty (30) day notice of cancellation or
non-renewal. The City must approve all insurance coverage and endorsements prior to
delivery of Grant funds to GRANTEE. GRANTEE shall notify City within two (2) business
days of GRANTEE's receipt of notice that any required insurance coverage will be
terminated or GRANTEE's decision to terminate any required insurance coverage for any
reason.
13. Nondiscrimination and Equal Pay. GRANTEE agree that all hiring by GRANTEE of
persons performing this Grant Agreement shall be on the basis of merit and
qualifications. GRANTEE will have a policy to provide equal employment opportunity in
accordance with all applicable state and federal anti-discrimination laws, regulations,
and contracts. GRANTEE will not refuse employment to a person, bar a person from
employment, or discriminate against a person in compensation or in a term, condition,
or privilege of employment because of race, color, religion, creed, political ideas, sex,
age, marital status, national origin, actual or perceived sexual orientation, gender
identity, physical or mental disability, except when the reasonable demands of the
position require an age, physical or mental disability, marital status or sex distinction.
GRANTEE represent it is, and for the term of this Agreement will be, in compliance with
the requirements of the Equal Pay Act of 1963 and Section 39-3-104, MCA (the Montana
Equal Pay Act). GRANTEE must report to the City any violations of the Montana Equal Pay
Act that Contractor has been found guilty of within 60 days of such finding for violations
occurring during the term of this Agreement.
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GRANTEE shall require these nondiscrimination terms of its subcontractors providing
services under this Grant Agreement.
14. Public Meetings and Access to Public Records
a. Meetings of GRANTEE's Board of Directors that pertain to the receipt or expenditure
of Grant funds from the City are subject to the open meeting requirements of
Montana law, including those set forth in Title 7, Chapter 1, Part 41, MCA and Title
2, Chapter 3, MCA. To ensure compliance, GRANTEE will provide agendas for Board
meetings that pertain to the receipt or expenditure of Grant funds covered by this
Agreement to the City Clerk's office no later than 72 working hours prior to meeting
for notice on the City's official posting board and any other sites deemed reasonable
by the Clerk's office. In addition, meeting minutes will be kept by GRANTEE and
provided to the City Clerk's office no later than 90 days after the meeting. These
minutes shall be posted and made available to the public by the City Clerk's office
except for those minutes taken during a closed meeting in accordance with 2-3-203,
MCA. Minutes taken during a closed meeting shall also be provided to the City
Clerk's office but shall be handled in accordance with the City Clerk's regular
executive session protocol and kept private in a secured cabinet.
b. In accordance with 7-1-4144, MCA and subject to any applicable legal obligation to
protect and preserve individual confidential or private information, upon reasonable
request and at reasonable times during normal business hours, GRANTEE shall make
such records available for inspection and copying by members of the public.
GRANTEE may charge for such copying in accordance with the policies of the City,
which GRANTEE hereby adopt for such purposes.
c. To determine whether a meeting or part of a meeting may be closed to the public
and to determine whether information contained in GRANTEE' documents is
protected by law from disclosure, GRANTEE may seek a determination of the City
Attorney at no cost to GRANTEE. Such request and determination shall not create
an attorney-client relationship between GRANTEE and the City.
15. Attorney's Fees and Costs. In the event it becomes necessary for a Party to this
Agreement to retain an attorney to enforce any of the terms or conditions of this
Agreement or to give any notice required herein, then the prevailing party shall be
entitled to reasonable attorney's fees and costs, including fees, salary, and costs of in-
house counsel to include City Attorney.
16. Integration and Modification. This document contains the entire agreement between
the Parties and no statements, promises or inducements made by either party or agents
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of either party not contained in this written Agreement may be considered valid or
binding. This Agreement may not be modified except by written agreement signed by
both parties.
17. Dispute Resolution
a. Any claim, controversy, or dispute between the Parties, their agents, employees,
or representatives shall be resolved first by negotiation between senior-level
personnel from each party duly authorized to execute settlement agreements.
Upon mutual agreement of the parties, the Parties may invite an independent,
disinterested mediator to assist in the negotiated settlement discussions.
b. If the Parties are unable to resolve the dispute within thirty (30) days from the
date the dispute was first raised, then such dispute may only be resolved in a
court of competent jurisdiction in compliance with the Applicable Law provisions
of this Agreement.
18. No Assignment. GRANTEE may not subcontract or assign GRANTEE's rights, including
the right to Grant payments, or any other rights or duties arising hereunder, without the
prior written consent of City.
19. No Third Party Beneficiary. The terms and provisions of this Agreement are intended
solely for the benefit of each Party and their respective successors and assigns. It is not
the Parties' intent to confer third party beneficiary rights upon any other person or
entity.
20. Choice of Law. This Agreement shall be governed and construed in accordance with the
laws of the State of Montana without regard to conflict of law provisions. The Parties
agree to submit to the personal and exclusive jurisdiction of the courts located within
Gallatin County, Montana.
21. Non-Waiver. A waiver by either party of any default or breach by the other Party of any
terms or conditions of this Agreement does not limit the other party's right to enforce
such term or conditions or to pursue any available legal or equitable rights in the event
of any subsequent default or breach.
22. Severability. If any portion of this Agreement is held to be void or unenforceable, the
balance of the Agreement shall continue in effect.
23. Counterparts. This Agreement may be executed in counterparts, which together
constitute one instrument.
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IN WITNESS WHEREOF, the parties hereto have executed this instrument the day and year
indicated below. DocuSigned by:
DocuSigned by:
Aff�l lU f U U " 12/20/2020
-)ate:
251607FDSA824A6._
Jeff Mihelich, City Man
GRANTOR City of Bozeman
5DocuSigne/Id1111by:
`�V�AV, Wt 'SS Date: 12/18/2020
FA0A36AD43AF46F...
GRANTEE Bozeman Ski Foundation
Approved as to form:
DocuSigned by:
SAS Date: 12/18/2020
876992AC9ACA44B_.
Greg Sullivan, City Attorney
City of Bozeman
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Exhibit A
Grant Request
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Cash-in-lieu of Parkland Funds
June 2020
Bridger Ski Foundation
"Sunset Hills Snowmaking and Winter Trail Enhancements"
An
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Sunset Hills is BSF's most popular in-town venue. More than 550 kids participate in our after-school programs.
Overview
The Bridger Ski Foundation was established in 1936. BSF's mission is to inspire a lifelong love of
skiing, athletic excellence, and personal growth, and to improve the health and well-being of
our community by maintaining and grooming over 70 kilometers of winter recreation trails.
An estimated 70,000 users enjoy the BSF-groomed trails every winter. Since BSF began
grooming trails in the late 1960s, winter trail use has increased an estimated 5,000%. This boom
in the popularity of our community winter trails, lack of consistent snow, and pressure on area
trails and open spac-e has put a strain on BSF's capacity to meet the growing demand for a
reliable winter recreation opportunity that is safe, affordable, accessible and fun. The 8-
kilometer Sunset Hills area is the centerpiece of BSF's 70-kilometer groomed community trail
system. It is conveniently located in the heart of downtown Bozeman, and an important anchor
for winter recreation in Southwest Montana.
BSF is applying for a $150,000 Park Improvement Grant to help cover the cost of constructing
and installing a reliable state-of-the-art snowmaking system that will guarantee snow at Sunset
Hills from early December through late March, ensure uninterrupted access throughout the
winter even during low-snow years, address growing demand, and enhance the livability of
our community.
Bozeman is the fastest growing city of its size in the country and has been for the past three
years. Bozeman is also an active community. Parks, trails, and trailheads all over the valley are
becoming increasingly congested. This project will guarantee snow at our most popular in-town
community Nordic trail so that everyone in our community can get out and recreate in the
winter. Sunset Hills is also the primary location for BSF's learn-to-ski and higher level after-
school and weekend programs and training venue for the MSU ski team, Montana Endurance
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Academy, and Bridger Biathlon Club. Snowmaking at Sunset Hills will give these programs
certainty and reduce congestion at other parks and trailheads.
This project will not only enhance the livability, but also benefit the physical and mental health,
of our community. Despite the fact that we live in a state with an abundance of national forests
and public lands, most people in our community cannot afford the time, nor do they have the
resources it takes, to enjoy them.
Sunset Hills is centrally located so it is easy for people to get to before and after work and
school, during lunch breaks and on weekends and there is plenty of parking in the lot at
Highland Boulevard and Ellis Street. There are no lines, so it is not crowded, and it is safe with
good lighting. BSF does not charge a mandatory trail fee, so anyone who would like to use the
trails is free to do so.
In addition to being well planned (see attached Community Nordic Trail Feasibility Study), the
Sunset Hills Project will be a buffer against unpredictable weather patterns, allow us to open
the Nordic trails earlier, provide reliable conditions throughout the winter, and keep the trails
open longer. It will ensure that our growing community can ski, sled, and recreate for free every
day of the week, get outside and be healthy, guarantee that kids have easy access to healthy
after-school learn-to-ski programs, and that open space at Sunset Hills is utilized year-
round.
Given the current situation with COVID-19, many people will choose not to take risks or be
uncomfortable travelling out of state for the next couple years if not longer. They will stay
closer to home. As such there will be a greater demand on area trails and greater need for
reliable, convenient and family-friendly alternatives like Sunset Hills.
There is no other park project like this in Bozeman. This project is consistent with the goals of
Bozeman's PROST plan: "To enhance the quality of life of the City's citizens through the
provision of high-quality parks, recreation facilities and programs, trails, and open spaces." This
project serves everyone in our community and supports our City's slogan, "Bozeman: The Most
Livable Place."
Describe existing conditions in park
BSF has been responsible for maintaining and grooming the trails at Sunset Hills since the
1960s. We have invested hundreds of thousands of dollars into equipment, staff, improving and
maintaining the trails, getting them ready in the fall, grooming them in the winter, and
transitioning them at the end of the spring for summer and fall activities. We have experts on
staff who are dedicated to trail development and maintenance. The BSF Nordic trails
committee is made up of BSF staff, Board members, parents, and community and business
representatives who help set strategic planning for the winter trails and consider use and
management matters that arise from the trails program.
This project is well-planned and was identified as a key economic development project by the
2014 Community Trails Feasibility Study (CTFS), a professionally conducted community master
plan that BSF commissioned with funding from the LOR Foundation. BSF hired the SE Group to
conduct this study which evaluated existing and potential winter trail offerings, and ways that
winter trails can enhance community livability and benefit our local and state economy. One
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component of the CTFS, a 47-question survey that garnered 670 responses, revealed an
overwhelming preference for reliable snow and more frequent grooming at Sunset Hills rather
than adding more groomed trails to the system. Based on the findings of the CTFS, the SE Group
recommended focusing on winter trail enhancements and the construction of snowmaking at
Sunset Hills.
L-hadle3 4i Trail,Sunday
_Janua�r�r 8;2012
In December 2007 the kids really did try to ski on the grass 2012 was another low snow year. Skiing at Sunset Hills
at Sunset Hills they were so desperate. (flea Lindley)lasted just 17 days that winter.
More than 30 places in North America use snowmaking to provide guaranteed access to winter
recreation. In ALL cases, snowmaking has proven to be a reliable and popular community
amenity.
Snowmaking at Sunset Hills is entirely feasible and, as noted in the CTFS, more reliable and
affordable than ever before. BSF already has some snowmaking infrastructure in place,
including a well that supplies water at Sunset Hills. BSF made snow from 2005-2010. The old
system became outdated and no longer functions. This project is an upgrade to the old system.
While our primary motivation for this project is to enhance the livability, health and well-being
of our community, we recognize the economic benefits of snowmaking at Sunset Hills will also
positively contribute to the financial health and well-being of our local economy.
With snowmaking at Sunset Hills, BSF will also be able to host more regional and national-
caliber ski races. One two-day regional race at Sunset Hills could generate roughly $200,000 in
non-resident revenue. The economic benefit and tourism draw of senior national races is even
higher. The US National Championships and National Super Tour organizers have expressed
interest in staging races in Bozeman if they have the certainty of snowmaking.
Proposed improvements
BSF is proposing to install a state-of-art snowmaking system at Sunset Hills that will guarantee
winter recreation opportunities and meet the needs and demands of our community for
reliable, consistent, safe and affordable in-town winter recreation and be a safeguard during
low snow years.
BSF is listed as one of the entities partnering with the City on trails development and
maintenance. There is a long-standing relationship in place (PROST page 88). BSF is also listed
as a potential partner for trail development (PROST page 159). This project will develop and
enhance the trails at Sunset Hills so that our community can use and enjoy them year-round.
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There is no in-town park with guaranteed winter recreation in the City at this time. This project
will be a game changer for Bozeman and everyone in our community.
One of Bozeman's most desirable community characteristics is "access to outdoor amenities
and recreation." This project will significantly contribute to the quality of life in our community
in numerous ways that the PROST plan envisioned:
Objective 1: Engaging Citizens in Their Community.This project will • Create a sense of
community and • Provide places for people to connect and interact in a shared
environment.
Objective 2: Improving Public Health. This project will • Provide people with contact with
nature, known to confer certain health benefits and enhance well-being. • Engage children
in health-promoting physical activity. • Increase fitness and reduce obesity by providing
physical activity opportunities.
Objective 3: Helping children learn. This project will • Engage children in informal,
experiential learning through play and shared experiences with peers, laying the foundation
for effective formal education.
Objective 4: Creating Safer Neighborhoods. This project will • Provide access to nature
adjacent to residential area to relieve stress, reducing aggression. • Offer gathering places
where neighbors form social ties that produce stronger, safer neighborhoods.
Objective 5: Revitalizing Community. This project will •Attract investment through
revitalization, including park and recreation improvements.
Objective 9: Promoting Tourism. This project will • Provide sites for special events and
festivals that attract tourists. • Provide sites for sports tournaments, which can be major
sources of tourism and economic benefits, especially for smaller cities.
Objective 10: Implementing Smart Growth. This project will • Strengthen the urban core.
Projected outcome
A $150,000 Park Improvement Grant to put in a snowmaking system at Sunset Hills will allow
BSF to meet the needs and demands of our community for reliable, consistent, safe and
affordable in-town winter recreation and be a safeguard during low snow years.
The anticipated increase in use and income associated with our ability to offer guaranteed
snow at Sunset Hills will be measured with electronic counters at trail access points, the
number of youth and adults participating in our programs, voluntary trail pass sales, and the
number of community events and races that are hosted at Sunset Hills. Our goal is to see an
overall increase in trail use of 50%, an increase in the number of school children involved in
BSF's after school and weekend programs of 20%, and the number of adults participating in our
programs to increase by 25%within the next five years.
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� r
r
Thousands of kids have learned to ski at Sunset Hills. Thousands of adults enjoy Sunset Hills too during lunch,
after work,and on weekends.
With guaranteed snow at Sunset Hills we will be able to host more fun community events, as
well as national and international races right in town. The economic benefit of this will be
significant. For example, the Nordic Ski Association of Anchorage, which has snowmaking at
their in-town trails, has hosted 25 national ski events that have generated approximately $5.5
million.
BSF was established in 1936 and has been grooming public ski trails for more than 50 years. We
have the experience to achieve project success. This project supports the Bozeman PROST Plan,
aligns with the BSF mission and business model, and is shovel ready. A$150,000 Park
Improvement Grant will be a capstone grant for this project. We anticipate completion by
December 2020.
Proposed time frame for completion
This project is shovel ready. The timeline for the implementation and installation of the Sunset
Hills snowmaking system is as follows:
o Fall 2017 through February 2020— Finalization of the engineering, construction, City
approval and permitting process, and installation related logistics of the proposed
snowmaking system.
o March— May 2020—Order all equipment needed and listed for the project.
o June 2020—Complete fundraising.
o June—July 2020— Delivery of all equipment.
o May— November 2020—Construction and installation of snowmaking system,
underground piping, cisterns, and pump house.
o November 2020—Construction completed, and expenses paid.
o Mid-December 2020—Snowmaking begins, and Sunset Hills opens to the public.
BSF is responsible for ongoing maintenance, management and funding at Sunset Hills. The
estimated annual cost to maintain and operate the new 8-kilometer snowmaking system is
approximately $5,000 a year for the first two years, and $10,000 a year thereafter. We are
confident that we can cover this cost with an anticipated 25% increase in voluntary trail pass
sales due to improved conditions and awareness that BSF is responsible for providing the
snowmaking at Sunset Hills. The BSF board of directors will allocate funding for Sunset Hills
each year based on the indicated anticipated costs, and in future years on historic and
anticipated costs, at their annual organizational planning and budget meeting in April.
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Cash in Lieu of Parkland Funds Grant Application
June 2020
Bridger Ski Foundation
ATTACHMENT I
Please also see attached
• Site map showing the park and the location of the proposed improvements.
• North arrow orientation and details of the proposed site improvements.
• Describe in detail the recreational needs to be met by the proposed improvements
(activities, passive uses, baseball, playground, tennis, picnic areas, etc.)
This project serves the community at large. Sunset Hills is a special use park, similar to the
Westlake BMX and the new Sports Park, that will be enjoyed by everyone in our community.
Sunset Hills is centrally located across the street from Bozeman Health and the east side softball
fields, adjacent to Lindley Park and Peet's Hill, a few blocks from Bogert Park and about a mile
from Beall Park. Sunset Hills is heavily used year-round. The City Rec Department uses Sunset
Hills and the Lindley Rec Center year-round for various classes and activities. Area bike clubs,
Bozeman Youth Cycling, and Team Rockford use the trails at Sunset Hills for summer and fall
clinics and fall cyclocross events. Bozeman High School, MSU, and the Bozeman Track Club use
Sunset Hills for cross country, running, and sports training. Individuals, friends, and families
enjoy the trails at Sunset Hills during the spring, summer, and fall to bike, run, hike, walk, stroll,
dog walk, and recreate.
During the winter, Sunset Hills is the most popular and heavily used in-town community Nordic
ski venue. Because of its central location, it is easy for people to get to before and after work
and school, during lunch breaks and on weekends and there is plenty of parking in the lot at
Highland Boulevard and Ellis Street. There are no lines, so it is not crowded, and it is safe with
good lighting. BSF does not charge a mandatory trail fee, so anyone who would like to use the
trails is free to do so.
The Sunset Hills winter trails have been a central part of the BSF partnership with the City of
Bozeman and since the late 1960s. They are also the primary location for BSF's learn-to-ski and
higher level after-school and weekend programs and an important training venue for the MSU
ski team, Montana Endurance Academy, and Bridger Biathlon Club. Snowmaking at Sunset Hills
will give these programs certainty and reduce congestion at other parks and trailheads. BSF
also has a strong adult and master's program, a learn-to-ski program for the YMCA, and an
exceptional elite team that has developed many world-class skiers and Olympians. Our
programs run, on average, 25 to 30 hours a week. Multiplied by our number of participants, we
have a total engagement of 4,000 to 5,000 hours a week, 45 weeks a year.
Bozeman is the fastest growing city of its size in the country. Bozeman is also an active
community. Parks, trails, and trailheads all over the valley are becoming increasingly congested.
This project will draw more people to Sunset Hills and relieve pressure at other parks and trails.
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The Bridger Ski Foundation has, for over 50 years, given our community a place to recreate for
free in the winter and helped thousands of youth develop fortitude, discipline, camaraderie,
and skills through sports that they can enjoy for the rest of their lives. During the winter we
offer recreational, educational, and competitive ski programs. Summer and fall programs
include mountain biking, hiking, running and organized games/sports.
Studies show that physically active children and adults are healthier, happier, and less likely to
suffer from anxiety and depression, thus less likely to incur health care related expenses.
Additional research shows a positive relationship between neighborhood open space and
physical activity and that people in communities with access to abundant open spaces generally
enjoy better health.
• Describe in detail the level of community and neighborhood support for this project:
The Bridger Ski Foundation has raised $708,115 for this project. The total cost of this project is
$979,000. This project is shovel ready. Contractors are in place and ready to begin construction.
They are donating in-kind services and providing most work at cost. BSF has secured a loan to
cover the balance of funding needed for this project ($271,000).
BSF has received donations from individuals ($259,459), foundations ($304,000) businesses
($32,000) and in-kind ($112,656).
A $150,000 Park Improvement Grant will be greatly leveraged with the existing funds that have
been raised ($708,000). BSF intends to raise the balance of funding needed $121,000 with a
public fund raiser, events, and the greater intermountain ski community.
Over the years, in addition to building a strong base of financial support, the Bridger Ski
Foundation has developed solid partnerships that anchor the long-term success of this project.
The Bozeman and Belgrade Chambers of Commerce, Yellowstone Country Montana tourism
region, the Convention and Visitors Bureau, and Bozeman Yellowstone International Airport
have reviewed and endorsed this project.
BSF also has strong and long-standing partnerships with the following organizations and their
support is critical to the success of this project:
BSF has an MOU/long-term use agreement with the City of Bozeman to make snow and groom
the public trails at Sunset Hills for all to enjoy. The City provides in-kind support for equipment
storage during the winter season, snow plowing, and pre3eason trails mowing. BSF maintains
and is solely responsible for the cost of grooming the Sunset Hills trails.
Bozeman Health donates the use of their land at Highland Glen. Highland Glen is adjacent to
and allows BSF to extend its groomed winter trail system an additional 7.5 kilometers from
Sunset Hills. Bozeman Health's support is in-kind.
BSF works closely with the Gallatin Valley Land Trust (GVLT) to develop year-round community
trails, improve trailhead and road access, and support outdoor recreation. GVLT also allows BSF
to replace the summertime information on their trailhead kiosks at Sunset Hills with winter
information, trail maps, facts, and mileages so when users arrive they have an instant lay of the
land. GVLT's support is in-kind.
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BSF also partners with the U.S. Forest Service, Bridger Creek Golf Course, Montana State
University, Sacajawea Middle School, Friends of Hyalite, Eagle Mount, Big Sky Wind Drinkers
running club, Bozeman Women's Activity Group, and the Bridger Biathlon Club. These partners
donate in-kind time and resources to help us maintain our winter recreation resources.
Local businesses including Barnard Construction, Bangtail Bike and Ski, C&H Engineering, First
Security Bank, Gallatin Tree Care, Kenyon Noble, Liberty Electric, Martel Construction, Quantum
Composers, REI, Roundhouse Sports, Sime Construction, Simkins Hallin, and Williams Plumbing
have made significant cash and inAdnd donations to this project.
Gallatin County recognizes winter grooming and trail efforts as a key recreation benefit for
residents and visitors. The County Roads Department provides plowing services. C&H
Engineering has donated trail engineering, mapping, and design services at no charge because it
recognizes the community and economic benefit of this project.
• Estimated number of users of the proposed park improvement or facility related to this
project:
30,000 estimated user visits.
3,000 estimated users.
84,349 BSF on-line grooming report visits.
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