Dear Editor,

I disagree with MidFirst Bank and Mayor Vanderhoof that voting “no” on Red Feather Ridge (RFR) will increase urban sprawl. The high density housing of RFR and its associated costs and impacts represent “sprawl” to the average citizen. A “no” vote will halt expansion of our Urban Growth Boundary (UGB) and city limits for RFR as proposed.

Say no to urban density housing, huge traffic impacts, and our obligations to fund and maintain certain improvements. We should not expand the UGB to accommodate the request of a single developer, nor with a simple council majority vote. Instead, focus on developing within our current boundaries, including Wulfsohn Ranch and the unknown future of our airport.

Our mayor has “control issues” over growth that occurs adjacent to our corporate limits. Our city and county representatives should cooperate and develop an enforceable master plan for the Four Mile corridor. Some elected leaders have advocated that the city expand and control all the way to Sunlight Mountain! Who and what will be “up the creek” if we allow the city to pursue urban density development starting with RFR?

Garfield County has enlightened planning principles including preserving open space via clustering in exchange for higher densities, and an affordable housing requirement allowing “offsite” location so those residents can be closer to jobs and transit.

Perhaps there are alternatives to MidFirst’s A and B options that preserve open space, allow greater density, provide affordable housing, and keep our UGB and city limits in place. Keep the options alive. Vote “no” to stop city expansion and “urban sprawl.”

“Neighborly,”

Greg Jeung

Glenwood Springs