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HomeMy WebLinkAboutFORT COLLINS LDS TEMPLE - PDP - PDP120029 - CORRESPONDENCE - (3)The final proposal may not be in compliance with the Compatibility Standards regarding the lighting of the tower. Details about the lighting that will illuminate the tower at night and their hours of operation were not discussed at the citizen input meeting; there was no opportunity yet for public comment. Current codes state that "Exterior lighting shall be evaluated in the development review process to ensure that the functional and security needs of the project are met in a way that does not adversely affect the adjacent properties or neighborhood." I am concerned that a 112 foot tower that is lit at night will adversely affect the adjacent properties. As I understand it current code requires exterior lighting to face downward. This code should be applied in this case because it would result in less of the tower height being illuminated. It is likely that this application will request a modification of lighting standards, however "the decision maker may grant a modification of standards only if it finds that the granting of the modification would not be detrimental to the public good." The detriment to the public good is summed up quite well in the section of code that states that those who review an application should "determine whether or not the glare would create a significant adverse impact on the adjacent property owners, neighborhood or community in terms of vehicular safety, outdoor activities and enjoyment of views." In addition to adversely impacting our neighborhood outdoor activities and enjoyment of views, Fort Collins natural areas and natural features are supposed to be protected from light spillage from off -site sources. I do not claim to be a bird expert, but the nearby Fossil Creek Reservoir Regional Open Space is "designated an "Important Bird Area" by the National Audubon Society. It provides crucial habitat to bald eagles (in the winter) and other types of raptors, and many species of shorebirds, songbirds, and waterfowl." I am concerned that a 112 foot tower illuminated at night may adversely impact wildlife patterns and mating. My suggestions are to 1) not approve the proposal unless the tower height will be less than 100 feet and 2) not approve any modification of existing lighting standards. Current city codes and standards should be applied to this development because it will benefit my neighborhood to do so Thank you for addressing these concerns in the development review process, and helping to keep Fort Collins a naturally beautiful place for my family to live, Brian P. Diaczun 2333 Dolan Street Fort Collins, CO To whom it may concern, This letter is being submitted regarding the application for the LDS/Mormon Temple that will be located at the intersection of Timberline and Trilby roads. My family lives in the adjacent Westchase neighborhood, and my neighbors and I have multiple concerns that we hope will be addressed through the city application review process. These concerns are based on information that was provided at the public meeting held October 15`h. Regarding the October 15th meeting itself, please know that the documented comments that were generated that evening are not likely to be a valid representation of nearby community and Fort Collins voter/taxpayer sentiment, as many of those in attendance introduced themselves to me as being from out of town or out of state. I left that meeting under the impression that a disproportionate number of favorable comments made towards this application were made by non -community members. Please take the sign -in sheet into account when reviewing the comments made. Concerns with the proposal include: The proposed 25x25 foot tower height of 112 feet above ground does not meet Fort Collins compatability standards. "Operational/Physical Compatibility Standards. Conditions may be imposed upon the approval of development applications to ensure that new development will be compatible with existing neighborhoods and uses. " I understand that the federal RLUIPA asks that cities not "impose or implement a land use regulation in a manner that imposes a substantial burden on the religious exercise of a person". My neighbors and I, who make up the 'existing neighborhood' referred to in this compatibility standard, do not believe it imposes a 'substantial burden' for the LDS temple to be built shorter. A shorter tower would be more in compliance with the spirit of other Fort Collins zoning codes. For example, currently zoned as an Urban Estate District, the requirement for any other development would be a maximum building height of three (3) stories. I believe that the reasoning behind that code also applies to this application. Also applicable is the Fort Collins code that states "a building or structure shall not substantially alter the opportunity for, and quality of, desirable views from public places, streets and parks within the community. Desirable views are views by the community of the foothills, mountains and/or significant local landmarks (i.e., Long's Peak, Horsetooth Mountain)." If built to 112 feet, on a piece of property that is significantly uphill when viewed from the South or West, the proposed tower will substantially alter the quality of desirable views. For example, from my backyard in the Westchase neighborhood, the tower will impact the view of the mountains to the West. Please consider our neighborhood to be a part of the Fort Collins community whose views should be protected.