Community Voices Concerns Over Proposed Campground's Economic Impact in Mancos

Concerns over local business impact and water resource management dominated the Montezuma County Planning and Zoning meeting on March 13, 2025. Community members voiced strong opposition to the proposed campground and RV site, arguing it could harm existing businesses and strain local water supplies.

Lance Miller, a local resident and board member of the Mancos Trails Group, raised critical questions about the water usage estimates for the proposed site. He highlighted the potential risks of overestimating occupancy rates and the implications for water pressure, especially during fire emergencies. "We need to know more about the maximum flow rate," Miller stated, emphasizing the importance of accurate assessments for the community's water infrastructure.

Another resident, Travis Measles, expressed frustration with large corporations seeking to establish operations in small towns. He argued that such developments could exploit local resources without contributing to community growth. "We want healthy growth like family homes and small businesses," Measles asserted, advocating for development that benefits the community rather than corporate interests.

The meeting underscored a growing tension between community needs and corporate expansion, with residents calling for sustainable growth that prioritizes local businesses and environmental resources. As discussions continue, the future of the proposed campground remains uncertain, with community members urging careful consideration of its potential impacts.