Residents raise alarm over mega development's environmental impact

In a recent government meeting, concerns were raised regarding the construction of the Lasso Loop Trail along the Aquafrio River, which is intended to serve as a wildlife corridor for pronghorn antelope. The discussion highlighted significant gaps in the planning and details surrounding the wildlife corridor, including its size, location, and timing.

Critics pointed out that pronghorns require a buffer of at least 1,000 feet from human activity, raising questions about the feasibility of the proposed trail in relation to wildlife safety. Additionally, the meeting addressed the need for land dedicated to a police and fire facility, with expectations that the land may need to be leased despite its designation.

Concerns were also voiced about the development's water requirements, with plans to construct two wells capable of delivering over one billion gallons of water annually. However, there was no clarity on who would bear the costs for infrastructure improvements outside the development, including necessary repairs to local roads impacted by increased traffic and sewer systems.

Finally, the stipulations discussed were tied to a master development plan that grants extensive rights to the developers, allowing them to make significant changes without further oversight from planning and zoning boards or the town council, pending only approval from town staff. This raised alarms about the potential for unchecked development and its implications for the community and environment.

The meeting underscored the need for transparency and accountability in the planning process as the community grapples with the impacts of large-scale development.