The Board of Douglas County Commissioners convened on September 23, 2025, for a land use meeting focused on the proposed Sundown Oaks Metropolitan District in Franktown. The meeting featured presentations from representatives of the applicant, including Nicole Paycock, Stephen Gage, Alan Westfall, and Michael Persickiti, who outlined the need for the district and its implications for local infrastructure.

The primary objective of the proposed Metropolitan District is to finance significant public improvements, particularly the widening of Highway 86, which is deemed essential for safety and accessibility as the area develops. Gage emphasized that without the district, the costs associated with these improvements would inflate lot prices, making them unmarketable and hindering the development of new homes. He noted that the project could generate over $80 million in new tax revenue for the county, benefiting both new and existing residents by improving traffic flow and safety.

The applicant's presentation addressed concerns raised by local residents regarding the necessity of a Metropolitan District, especially in light of previous developments in the area that did not require one. Gage explained that the financial landscape has changed significantly since those earlier projects, necessitating new financing mechanisms to keep housing affordable. He also clarified that the proposed district would not impose a construction management fee, further reducing costs for future homeowners.

Paycock detailed the service plan for the Metropolitan District, which aligns with the county's model service plan but includes specific conditions to restrict the district's use of eminent domain and prohibit reimbursement for construction management fees. The district is projected to encompass 173 acres and facilitate the construction of 37 single-family homes, with an average value of $2.2 million each. The homes will be served by on-site wells and private sewer systems, with the district responsible for maintaining open spaces and stormwater facilities.

The meeting also highlighted the financial viability of the district, with consultants affirming that the proposed financing plan is reasonable. The district aims to lower the costs of public improvements through tax-exempt financing, which would ultimately benefit homebuyers by keeping housing prices manageable.

Commissioners engaged in discussions regarding the need for the district, particularly in light of the substantial costs associated with the required public improvements. They acknowledged the importance of the Metropolitan District in facilitating timely infrastructure development while ensuring that costs are distributed fairly among future residents.

In conclusion, the Board of Douglas County Commissioners is considering the approval of the Sundown Oaks Metropolitan District service plan, which aims to address critical infrastructure needs while promoting sustainable growth in the Franktown area. The decision will have significant implications for the community's development and the affordability of housing in the region.