Every time I walk out of my house, I take a minute to appreciate the beauty around me. I’m truly fortunate to live in this place. Among my neighbors are craftspeople, tradespeople, artisans, ranchers and farmers. In my conversations with them they feel equally appreciative to be surrounded by such beauty.
Under the proposed land use code my neighbors could well lose this opportunity. In the “Scenic Overlay District,” farming, farmers market, farm stands, greenhouses, animal training, work-live and live-work units, co-housing, tiny homes and veterinary operations are among the many items prohibited. All of these currently exist where I live.
The code says the existing uses are grandfathered in and will be allowed to continue, but the code also says any repair, replacement or modification is subject to a permit and the new code will apply.
In simple language, you can keep what you have until it falls down around you.
So what is allowed in the scenic overlay area? Homes conforming to current architectural fashion, equestrian facilities, golf courses and sod farms. If you want to see what this looks like, take a drive into Aspen or Sun Valley.
I don’t want to live in a postcard. I like living in a living, working, community. I think the “Scenic Overlay District” defined in the proposed land use code should be totally removed. It’s unnecessary, contradictory to its stated purpose and smacks of bureaucratic overreach.
John Purser
Durango
