Residents urge council to comply with state transit-oriented housing law; water supply and local control are central concerns

Several residents addressed the Westminster City Council on Feb. 10 about recent state housing and transit bills—commonly referred to in the meeting by the shorthand "13 13"—and urged the city to either comply with the new rules or do a thorough analysis before rejecting them.

Tim Pegg, an alternate on the Planning Commission, told the council he believed the city should not "choose to break the law" and said some arguments at a recent study session mischaracterized the legislation. Pegg said the law is market-oriented and does not require the municipal government to build or give away new housing. He also disputed a claim that the law forces Westminster to find water ‘‘that doesn't exist,’’ saying the statute’s language about periodic renewal changes how the requirement operates.

Other speakers differed. Karen Calabity expressed opposition to the law, arguing higher-density projects — and some recent local developments she named — would create traffic, environmental and planning problems in neighborhoods. Several speakers, including Kate Fuller and Vivek Senderaj, urged the council to study water supply constraints carefully; Fuller said Westminster’s total water use has fallen while population grew and urged staff to identify specific shortfalls rather than broadly dismiss the bill.

Councilors responded that the city has planned around transit and has formed zoning and infrastructure plans for stations over the last 10–20 years. Mayor Pro Tem Nirmala and other councilors said Westminster seeks to protect local control and water resources; Councilor Carmelia (first name given in the record as Claire) said she had asked for staff briefings and will meet with planning staff to ensure Westminster preserves home-rule authority while assessing statutory requirements. Councilor Nancy McNally noted the city is nearly built out and that water supply is a critical gating issue.

No formal council action on the state law occurred at the meeting; councilors said staff will continue to analyze implications and may return with information. The city manager and planning staff signaled follow-up meetings and further engagement with regional leaders working on housing and water issues.

Speakers named problems they wanted addressed: clearer public information on water supply and tap-fee adequacy, a specific accounting of how far Westminster is from required zoning changes, and careful study of exemptions for areas lacking water. Several asked the council to avoid a blanket rejection without first documenting local impacts or the costs of compliance.

The council reiterated it will continue outreach to the public and coordinate with state and regional leaders on next steps.