Parker residents and town council collide

PARKER, Colo. -- Parker's town council passes on a hotel development downtown after a loud outcry from many town residents.

 

But prior to the vote residents were concerned their wishes wouldn't be carried out. 

 

There was a standing-room-only crowd Monday night that overflowed into the lobby of Parker’s Town Hall for a meeting over a controversial hotel plan proposed for downtown.

 

“That golden rule does apply here tonight folks. All of us are adults, and we will treat each other like we want to be treated,” said Mayor Mike Waid at the beginning of public comment.

 

“I find your behavior tonight really offensive telling us to be respectful when you're not being respectful of the residents who have made substantial investments in their homes, their communities their schools,” responded Parker resident Donna Hamilton.

 

Complaints against the project at Main Street and Victorian Drive include too much traffic, not enough parking, questions about the need and ability to get customers, and even complaints that it’s void of Western architecture at four-stories high.

 

The developer, Mars Development, says the 51-room high-end hotel will add millions to the city in sales tax revenue.

 

“We look to provide a hotel experience that was different, that gave you a taste of the town and not a taste of the freeway,” said developer Mike May.

 

The city’s proposal to kick in almost $2 million in tax incentives also infuriated people of Parker, who say that’s their money, and they’re sick of being ignored by the council.

 

There was also a lot of talk of possible conflicts of interest between the developer and the council.

 

Council Member Amy Holland recused herself, but the rest of the council claimed it has no conflicts with the developer and is free to vote.