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This November, Estes Park voters will consider two citizen-initiated ordinances placed on the ballot by the Town Trustees. After careful research and extensive member feedback, the Estes Chamber of Commerce Board of Directors, guided by our Member Advocacy Committee (MAC), has taken a firm stance: we respectfully and confidently oppose both measures.
In late July, the Chamber surveyed its membership, providing detailed information on the “pros” and “cons” of each initiative. The response was clear and overwhelming—95% of respondents opposed both ballot items. In light of this, the Chamber Board has voted to stand with other businesses and community organization in opposition to these proposals.
Ordinance 70-25: A Risk to Fair Process
The first initiative (Resolution 70-25) would require not only written approval of property owners for any rezoning or Planned Unit Development (PUD) application, but also the written approval of two-thirds of all property owners within 500 feet of the property in question.
While this may appear to give neighbors greater influence, in the opinion of the Chamber Board, it could, in practice, lead to confusion, inconsistent application, and serious barriers to reasonable development. Additionally, critical questions remain unanswered, including who is responsible for notifying property owners and securing written approval, what qualifies as “written approval,” how long would property owners have to respond, and how absentee owners or rental properties would be handled. All of which made it clear that this measure was not something the Chamber could support.
By creating vague, burdensome requirements, this ordinance risks undermining the transparent and professional processes already overseen by the Town’s Planning and Zoning Division. Instead of empowering the community, it could sow division, delay needed projects, and invite legal disputes.
Ordinance 71-25: Undermining Housing Solutions
The second initiative (Resolution 71-25) would repeal Section 11.4 of the Estes Park Development Code, which provides density bonuses in multi-family residential districts for attainable and workforce housing. It would also repeal associated building height allowances.
If passed, this measure would strip away a critical tool designed to address one of our community’s greatest challenges: the shortage of housing for local workers and families. The consequences could lead to reduced incentives for developers to create workforce housing, potential conflicts with federal Fair Housing Act standards, slower progress toward the Estes Forward Comprehensive Plan’s housing goals, and fewer housing opportunities for those who serve our businesses, schools, and essential services.
At a time when the need for attainable housing has never been greater, eliminating incentives sends the wrong message and risks worsening an already difficult situation for residents and employers alike.
We Encourage Educated Decision-Making
The Chamber of Commerce is committed to a vibrant Estes Park—one where businesses can thrive, residents can find homes, and development decisions are made transparently and fairly. Both of these proposed ordinances threaten that vision.
We encourage all voters to study the measures carefully, consider the long-term consequences, and join us in voting NO this November.
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