The Parker Town Council unanimously passed a resolution in opposition to Colorado Senate Bill 23-213 during its Monday, April 17 Council Meeting. The proposed bill, an attempt to address the housing affordability crisis across the state, would set statewide standards for municipal zoning laws with the intent of increasing the supply of affordable housing.

The Town Council is very concerned about the usurpation of home rule authority that would result from the proposed legislation, as well as the one-size-fits-all approach to a problem that demands tailored solutions for each local community. It is also the Town’s view that the bill as drafted may not result in increasing the supply of affordable housing in the state as planned.

The Town Council has issued an official letter to Parker’s statehouse legislators, Senator Jim Smallwood and Representative Anthony Hartsook, requesting their support in opposing the proposed bill. In this letter, the Council wrote:

“It takes all cities, towns, counties, and the state to work together to address housing affordability. SB 23-213 puts a singular state agency in charge and includes zero proof that what is being proposed will in fact create more affordable housing options. It does, however, strip away local control regarding land use and that is causing a chilling effect across Colorado.

“In Parker, we are achieving a balance of housing options through sound local planning and zoning policies. These local policies ensure housing choices for all, while respecting property owners’ rights. These local policies are mindful of future demand for water and support safe access to roads, trails, and parks.  

“SB 23-213 is simply a deregulation at the local level, allowing the state to regulate through broad-brush legislation. A one-size fits all approach to this issue creates more problems, offers no solutions, and sets the stage for litigated decision-making in the future.”

The Parker Town Council stands united with hundreds of other elected officials from across the state who support the Colorado Municipal League’s (CML) efforts to oppose this bill. For more information about CML’s official position on this harmful legislation, visit www.CML.org.

ATTACHMENTS

• Town of Parker Resolution No. 23-040 – Resolution Opposing the Statewide Land Use and Zoning Preemptions in Senate Bill 23-213
• Town Council Letter to Senator Jim Smallwood and Representative Anthony Hartsook