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HomeMy WebLinkAboutNOEL ANNEXATION & ZONING - 58-87, A - CORRESPONDENCE - OTHER JURISDICTIONSUniversity Office of Vice President for Administration Fort Collins, Colorado 80523 (303)491-5257 NOV 161988 M E M O R A N D U M DATE: November 11, 1988 L-7 TO: P. Austin, H. Baker, T. Grip, J. Voss and K. Waido FROM: Linda Wardlow SUBJECT: ATTACHED LETTER ON NOEL ANNEXATION CASE 058-87A A personal copy of the attached letter was sent to each member of the City Planning and Zoning Board listed on the attached sheet. LAW/em cc: B. Burnham • • November 11, 1988 AFl^ Dear_ AF2^: SUBJECT: NOEL ANNEXATION CASE #58-87A Although it has been the general policy of the University not to comment on the issues brought before the City Planning and Zoning Board, I feel it is important to comment on the above subject annexation and zoning request. The University Foothills Research Campus is designed and used primarily for research purposes with a segregated area used for sports activity. The Campus consists of approximately 1700 acres extending 3.6 miles in a north -south direction on the west side of Overland Trail, much of which is devoted to large animal research. A conscientious effort has been made by the University to buffer the residential areas east of Overland Trail from the activities carried on within the campus by such means as the location of public buildings (Equine Center) and the planting and maintenance of extensive landscaping along Overland Trail. It should be noted however that the maintenance of vegetation within the campus is not possible where large animals are contained, thereby subjecting certain areas to possible less -than -desirable air quality during periods of high wind. Permitting urban density residential development adjacent to the existing public access activities (Equine Center), large animal and beagle colony areas cannot be considered in the best long-term interests of the future residents. High intensity public activities, animal waste odors, blowing dust, noise, and seasonal insect infestations all will negatively impact encroaching residential developments. The University's planning assumptions for future development on the Foothills Campus are based upon the following concepts: Page 2. o The Foothills lands are a finite University resource and should be buffered against the impact of urban encroachment. o Acquisition of contiguous lands for buffering purposes should be a priority. The concept of contiguous land trades or trades of services is recommended as opposed to selling land. o Infrastructure should be located in dedicated corridors to permit separation and isolation of non -compatible activities. o Maintain flexible outuoor research facilities and recognize the need for areas dedicated to isolation, intensive use and public use. In conclusion, I would submit that annexation and urban density residential zoning would not be compatible with existing land uses and would have a significant negative impact upon the environment of the foothills areas. Be assured that Colorado State strives to be a good, corporate neighbor and appreciates the opportunity to participate in the adjacent neighborhood commenting process. Sincerely, R.H. Burnham Director of Facilities Planning RHB/ 1 aw cc: P. Austin H. Baker T. Grip J. Voss K. Waido Planning and Zoning Board City of Fort Collins Planning Department P. O. Box 580 Fort Collins, CO 80522 221-6750 Laurie O'Dell Chair David Edwards Sanford Kern Lloyd Walker Frank Groznik Jim Klataske Jan Shepard