68th & Carr - Rezoning DENIED

At 11pm last night, City Council voted 4-3 to deny the rezoning at 68th & Carr. The proposed development is defeated. Against the proposal: - John Marriott (District 3) - David Jones (District 4) - Bob Fifer (Mayor Pro Tem and At-Large) - Marc Williams (Mayor) For the proposal: - Nancy Ford (District 1) - Don Allard (At-Large) - Mark McGoff (District 2) “Compatibility” was the key subject, causing much doubt and discussion between Council and City Staff, and ultimately convincing the majority of Council to vote to deny the project. Other top issues included traffic safety problems that would be created by the proposed development, correcting the “jog” in 68th at Carr, and pedestrian safety. All subjects were well presented and also caused Council discussion. Possibly the most surprising vote was that of Mr. McGoff, District 2, which includes 68th & Carr. After stating that he’d read the development proposal, read the relevant parts of the Comprehensive Plan, talked to area residents face to face, and responded to the numerous emails and phone calls he received, he voted in favor of the development, in knowing opposition to 675 of his own constituents who signed the petition. In the end, there was agreement among Council and among members of the community that, in general, the design of the proposed buildings is fine, even nice. But the location simply isn’t appropriate. Many thanks to everyone who participated--attending meetings, gathering petition signatures, distributing flyers, contacting the City, and addressing City representatives. This was truly a team effort, and every bit counted. Going forward, the same developer may come back with a new or revised design. Depending on their arrangement with the land owners, they may move on, allowing another developer to propose ideas. In the meantime, I'll keep this petition open and continue sending updates, keeping the community united and informed as the next development is proposed. Also consider joining the "68th & Carr" group page on Facebook, where other concerned residents post updates: https://www.facebook.com/groups/68thAndCarr/. Best regards and happy holidays, Michael ArvadaHills@gmail.com