Copy and modify the letter below -- make it your own.  Speak from the heart, tell your story.  Email to the JeffCo Planning & Zoning Case Manager, Josh Drexler, at JDrexler@jeffco.us, or write Josh a letter, and mail it to Josh Drexler, Jefferson County Planning & Zoning Division, 100 Jefferson County Parkway Suite 3550, Golden CO 80419-3550, and copy John Wolforth, Director, Planning & Zoning, JWolfort@co.jefferson.co.us, same mailing address.  Thank you for your support.

Dear County Planners,

I am writing this letter in opposition to the Activism Ministry Church’s plan to expand their facility to 24,000 sq. ft.

Once again, development and expansion is trying to creep into our pristine, small, mountain community.

The Central Mountain Community Plan specifically addresses this issue in so many areas, specifically outlining and addressing  city and canyon views along the Lariat Loop National Scenic & Historic Byway ( pages 17 & 18),  and Scenic Corridors, particularly  I-70 and U.S. Highway 40, ( page 18).

Other areas of concern are the size of the building.  Referring to page 45 of the CMCP, design specifications are clear, and not only must “natural” features be addressed, but also Hazards, Transportation, Wildlife, and Fire Protection.  The Site Design Criteria is very specific in all of these areas.

I can address all the above mentioned areas, but the potential for increased traffic flow is one of the most worrisome to me, and to my family.

The Lariat Loop National Scenic & Historic Byway that folks -- church-goers and others -- will be traveling on is just that, a byway (also called Lookout Mountain Road).  It's very narrow and curvy in most places, but especially so when climbing the hill to where the church is located.

Not only do we have to watch for wildlife -- deer, elk, foxes, skunks, squirrels, etc. -- that constantly cross this narrow road, but we also have to share the road with cyclists who use the Lariat Loop as their training ground for mountain races across Colorado.  Often times I have to stop when a car is coming in the opposite direction, so the biker on my right will not be endangered.   This byway, and the current traffic is already dangerous; I can’t imagine adding a ton more cars and buses.  Please plan to do a field trip and drive Lookout Mountain Road from the intersection of Highway 40 to the Activation Ministry Church, then up around Charros to Paradise Road and back to Highway 40, so you can experience the gravity of this situation which I am describing.

I am hoping you will oppose the Activation Ministry Church expansion for the safety of all of us who call Lookout Mountain home, and who use this road every day.

Sincerely yours,
Diane & John Lange
24366 Cody Park Road
Golden CO 80401