Water worries threaten to leave Sunlight cabin plans high, dry
Post Independent Staff
SUNLIGHT- Sunlight Mountain Inn is hoping to install four guests cabins, but Garfield County Building and Planning staff members have recommended county commissioners not approve a special use permit for the addition.
Gretchenn and Pierre DuBois, owners of the Inn, want to add four manufactured cabins to their property in place of an abandoned ice skating rink.
Pierre DuBois said they want to build the cabins for additional beds, and because guests have expressed interest in cabins.
The couple requested a special use permit for a “camper park” on their property.
Though the cabins would be a permanent addition to the property, the county considers them recreational vehicles since they are wheeled and are designed to be moved.
“They are good, stand-alone-looking buildings,” said DuBois.
Garfield County Building and Planning staff members are concerned about the water supply for the new cabins.
According to staff member Fred Jarman, Sunlight Mountain Inn has a right to two wells, but the Colorado Division of Water Resources has doubts whether the wells can legally operate under contracts with West Divide Water Conservancy District.
“There is a disconnect between the water contract and the water permits,” said Jarman.
“It could be a quick, easy fix,” said Jarman. He said simply applying for new permits could fix the problem.
“It is completely the water issue,” said Jarman of the recommendation not to approve.
Contact Ryan Graff: 945-8515, ext. 535
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