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Residents press commissioners on Sandstone Ranch camping pilot; cost and conservation-easement concerns raised
Summary
A resident told Douglas County commissioners that proposed camping at Sandstone Ranch could conflict with the site's conservation easement and cited local boards' opposition and a county cost estimate; commissioners said they welcome continued public input as staff investigates feasibility.
At the Feb. 18 Douglas County business meeting, resident Kim Greer urged commissioners to pause a feasibility effort to allow camping at Sandstone Ranch, citing the property's conservation easement, recent local board resolutions opposing camping, and a county estimate of first-year costs.
Greer told the commission that Larkspur Fire Protection District and the Perry Park Metropolitan District had "unanimously passed resolutions against proposed camping in Sandstone." She said permitting camping would not be consistent with the "original intent of the easement or plan," and she cited what she said was a $3.5 million Great Outdoors Colorado grant tied to the conservation easement. Greer also said the conservation easement requires revegetation of disturbed areas and suggested attorneys review the easement language before the county proceeds.
Greer asked whether the county would end the feasibility study and noted the county's initial cost estimate for the pilot site at Sandstone: $379,400 for the first year and $100,000 for each subsequent year. She also asked whether the county could meet a proposed launch date of Memorial Day 2025 and how much money has already been spent.
Commissioners responded that public comment has shaped the county's review and that staff will continue to gather input. A commissioner said Sandstone Ranch comprises "2,043 acres over $20,000,000" in acquisition value and acknowledged the existence of a conservation easement while saying the county is seeking ways to allow responsible public access. Commissioners encouraged ongoing conversation with local stakeholders, including affected fire districts and metro districts.
The county manager announced the next business meeting would be held March 11, 2025, and the board adjourned. The meeting record did not show a motion to approve camping at Sandstone Ranch or a final decision on the feasibility study; commissioners said they would continue to solicit public and stakeholder input.
Ending: Residents and some local boards oppose camping at Sandstone Ranch; county officials said staff will continue the feasibility review with further public engagement. The meeting did not produce a policy change or vote on the proposal.
