Living in Castlewood Ranch, adjacent to the planned development, Bella Mesa North, we strongly ask for compliance with the Firewise Guidance for the US.  The current plan by Redland Development & Cardel Homes does not adequately protect our families and homes in the face of potential wildfires.  Firewise Guidelines deem it necessary that there be far less than 523 new houses approved for construction in this area - a community nestled in a land locked, fire-prone environment.  FireWise USA's research indicates that appropriate measures, such as reduced housing footprints, can decrease the risk of fire damage by up to 80%.

According to FEMA, evacuation is often the best strategy when facing wildfires.  This process is hindered when access and exit points are not sufficient, in this case only on the the north and south sections of Michell Street - passing either Mesa Middle School or Flagstone Elementary.  In an emergency it would be extremely difficult to evacuate 500+ new homes, the two schools and the hundreds of existing homes - with everyone trying to escape on either Enderud or Ridge Road.

**523 homes equates to 1485 more residents, 1000+ more vehicles and 4000-5000 added trips on Mitchell St.  (per the US Census Bureau, Date USA.com & developer sited traffic study.)

Wildfires are increasing across the nation.  We cannot afford to wait for a disaster to strike before corrective action is taken.  For the safety and security of the residents of our community (Castlewood Ranch) and others here, we implore the City of Castle Rock to drastically limit the number of new homes allowed to be built in Bella Mesa North.  Please change the zoning!