Former Parker mayor urges Elbert County to slow growth, update comprehensive plan and consider moratorium

Greg Lopez, former mayor of Parker, told the Elbert County Board of County Commissioners on Oct. 27, 2025, that the county should slow development, update its comprehensive plan and consider a moratorium on new applications until zoning and regulations reflect a clear 20-year vision. "Now you must manage Pandora's box," Lopez said, summarizing his view that recent approvals have set growth in motion and that leaders must control its effects.

Lopez, who said he oversaw rapid growth in Parker during the 1990s, told commissioners that master plans must be matched to enforceable regulations and that elected officials should use legislative action to change zoning and approval standards when necessary. He recommended aggressive community outreach, tighter park-dedication requirements and short-term building moratoria as tools to recalibrate development.

Why it matters: Commissioners are reviewing the county's comprehensive plan as applications accumulate. Lopez warned that approving large-scale development without updated regulations can shift long-term maintenance costs and community character onto residents and the county. He urged…