68th & Carr Update - Planning Commission public hearing

In November, more than 150 community members over-packed City Council chambers to oppose "Round One" of the proposed project at 68th & Carr. At this public hearing with the Planning Commission, several speakers presented fact-based evidence explaining how the project conflicted with two of Arvada's governing documents--the Comprehensive Plan and the Land Development Code--along with a variety of other problems that the development would cause. In spite of this, the Commission voted unanimously, in alignment with City Staff's recommendation, for approval of the project. (The process: City Staff's recommendation --> Planning Commission vote --> City Council final decision.) Contrary to City Staff and the Planning Commission, City Council denied the project two weeks later. As "Round Two" of the project (a revised version of Round One) is underway and scheduled for public hearings, questions have arisen. Does the Planning Commission always vote to approve? Does its vote always align with City Staff's recommendation? (Drumroll, please...) Yes, to both, in nearly every case. According to the minutes from the Planning Commission meetings over the last year, the Commission's vote was almost always unanimous and, except in one case, in line with City Staff's recommendation to approve, in spite of community testimony. (In the one case, Staff provided no recommendation, and the Commission voted to deny the project.) In the process for new development, two public hearings are held (details re: 68th & Carr hearings below). You're welcome to attend either or both, and you're welcome to speak. The important one to attend is City Council. They record names of everyone who wants to be part of the record for or against the proposal. They also make the final decision. If you can make it to one of the two, attend the City Council hearing. Given the Planning Commission's voting record and the result of its hearing during Round One, I'm undecided whether I'll attend Planning Commission for 68th & Carr. But I'll certainly be at the City Council hearing. I hope you'll be there to support. -Michael Planning Commission public hearing Tue, Feb 21, 6:30pm City Hall - 8101 Ralston Rd. City Council public hearing Mon, Mar 6, 6pm City Hall - 8101 Ralston Rd.