Berthoud trustees approve reduced, phased plan for Wagner Farm arboretum

The Board of Trustees voted July 28 to accept staff‑recommended reductions to the Wagner Farm Berthoud Arboretum project and asked staff to return with a phased implementation plan.

Daniel Buendia, the town’s project engineer, told the board staff had identified material and scope adjustments, plus targeted items to phase out of initial construction, that would preserve the project’s overall vision while reducing immediate costs. “Staff recommend increasing the project budget to $9,500,000,” Buendia said, adding that the amount includes a 5% contingency. Trustees discussed narrower trail widths, fewer site furnishings and reduced plantings as examples of the recommended changes.

Public commenters and the town’s tree advisory committee urged keeping core features and returning amenities over time; Natalie Pietzmeier said the tree advisory committee “formally support[s] investment in the arboretum as a valuable community asset.” Christine Torres of the Berthoud Historical Society offered the society’s support for interpretive elements and fundraising help.

A first motion to authorize the full original scope (no reductions) failed on a roll call vote. A second motion directing staff to finalize a revised construction contract that incorporates the recommended reductions and to work with the tree advisory committee on a phased plan passed. The board did not yet finalize funding sources; staff were directed to prepare revised plans and pricing and to return with financing details for a future meeting.

Officials said the reductions were chosen to be reversible: many items could be added later if revenues allow. The next steps are completion of revised design documents and preparation of contract terms for trustee consideration.