When I describe the subjects to be discussed during a City meeting, I focus on what I consider the most salient point. Often, my idea of “salience” differs from City staff’s. Yesterday, I summarized the topics to be covered in tonight’s Planning Commission meeting. One topic is “Tier 2 bonuses.” These allow developers to construct 3-story buildings in certain zones. Not surprisingly, these three-story buildings are not popular with adjacent homeowners, who dislike losing their backyard privacy and their views.
Tonight, the Commission will be considering a change to city code that would require developers to provide affordable housing or add extra sustainability features before they would be eligible for the Tier 2 bonus. My comment in yesterday’s post was, “…the people in nearby houses will bear the loss of privacy and views while gaining none of the benefits of energy efficiency or affordability.”
The City’s Planning Manager felt that I missed the point–Tier 2 bonuses are already available, and are granted frequently by the Planning Commission. They’re just upping the requirements to get them. I, in turn, felt that he was missing the point–owners of single story homes still don’t want three story town homes next door, regardless of how affordable or sustainable the new buildings might be for the new owners.
If you would like to explore these differing viewpoints in greater depth, here’s what I wrote yesterday, and here’s the Planning Manager’s letter.
Dinosaur Ridge is hosting TriceraTOTs this morning at 10. This is a story-time and craft program geared toward 2-5 year old kids. Siblings welcome! $5 per child non-member, $3/child member, adults free. Learn more….
Mountain Side Gear Rental and the Colorado Mountain Club are leading a Hike to Happy Hour tonight, starting at 6. They’ll be hiking North Table Mountain and hitting New Terrain Brewing afterwards. Learn more….
Holidaily Brewing has their Miles and Smiles Run Club tonight at 6PM. Meet at the brewery for a trail run, followed by happy hour.
Trout Unlimited meets at the Mountaineering Center this evening from 6:30-8:45. Learn more….
Tonight’s Live Music:
Dirty Dogs Roadhouse – Brian Hornbuckle, 6PM
Rock Rest Lodge – Dave Frisk, 6PM
Miners Alley Playhouse is opening a new play this weekend: Lungs. You can attend a preview performance tonight for only $15.
