FT. COLLINS (Colo.) — Timnath voters in Colorado voted overwhelmingly to ban permanent fences higher than 65 feet, which will essentially prevent a Topgolf center from opening up shop.
The initiative was approved by a vote of 2,321 to 1,026, and 55 percent Timnath’s registered voters cast ballots. Timnath is home to 6,107 registered voters.
William Jenkins, spokesperson of Guide Our Growth, Timnath!, said that the (turnout) was impressive for a single issue election. The group collected more signatures than required (651), forcing the special election.
The vote effectively prevents Topgolf from opening, as well as its tall net designed to stop golf balls from straying beyond its boundaries.
A group of Timnath residents who were vocal about the Topgolf project decided to form Guide Our Growth, Timnath. To force the special elections, they say that prohibiting fences over 65 feet would protect flight patterns and migration patterns for birds, conserve open space and views, and preserve Timnath’s small-town aesthetics and character.
Jenkins read from a statement that the citizens of Timnath had spoken, and determined that the development in the town must be aligned to the existing land-use code and the adopted 2020 comprehensive plan.
The comprehensive plan’s objectives include a community that is well-planned, with an appropriate balance between commercial and residential development. This will reflect the history and atmosphere of the town. The plan, while pro-business is also a system that emphasizes parks, trails and open spaces, as well as protected natural areas.
In a statement released by the Ladera Team on Tuesday night, the team stated that “Timnath Voters have Speak… The Ladera Team will adhere to the vote and continue with the development of this unique project.” “Our belief in this project is unchanged.”
The statement encouraged residents in understanding the development procedures as outlined in citizen’s role development review. The team at Ladera is committed to bringing a world-class development to Timnath.
Connell LLC said that plans to reclaim current gravel pits and asphalt batch plants will continue with or without Topgolf. Topgolf represents 5 percent of 240 acres, which includes 107 acre of open space.
Members of the Connell Family said in a press release that they were committed to developing this land, which has belonged to their family for years. “We also commit to designing a development that is in line with the comprehensive plan of the town.”
Jenkins stated that Colorado Parks and Wildlife’s concerns about the impact of TopGolf on wildlife was “clearly an important factor” in swaying public opinion. “We’re not anti-growth… The property is part Timnath. It’s already zoned as regional commercial. And something will go there that will be commercial and generate tax revenue. And hopefully something the residents of Timnath can use and enjoy.
Guide Our Growth initially filed a petition in support of a ballot initiative which would have required that the town get voter approval before building any new buildings taller than six stories or 60 feet. Town Council unanimously adopted a resolution against the petition.
The group changed their approach and decided to force a referendum to amend the charter of the town to prohibit permanent fences taller than 65 feet.
The town will pay for the special election from its general fund.
Guide Our Growth, Timnath! More than $68,800 was collected to support the ballot measure, including $28,500 by Advancing Northern Colorado (a nonprofit with Thomas Lucero, a Loveland resident, listed as its principal officer), $30,000 from retired banking Harry Deveraux, and dozens individual contributions as low as $20.
