Get Full Government Meeting Transcripts, Videos, & Alerts Forever!
Get email alerts on the Home Rule Resolution topic
No spam. Unsubscribe anytime.
Erie Council adopts resolution backing home‑rule municipalities in state land‑use dispute amid mixed council views
Summary
Erie Town Council unanimously framed a resolution expressing support for several home‑rule municipalities litigating the state over land‑use authority; some council members questioned whether the move was largely symbolic. The measure was approved after council discussion.
The Town Council of Erie on Dec. 9 adopted a resolution expressing support for home‑rule municipalities that are litigating the state of Colorado over land‑use and zoning authority. Mayor Moore told colleagues the resolution was intended to stand with municipalities arguing against what they see as state overreach.
Council Member Barrera pressed staff and fellow council members for clarity about who the town was supporting and why, saying the action "seems kind of performative" and asking whether Erie had a direct stake in the underlying bills. Planning and development staff identified municipalities involved in the litigation, including Lafayette, Westminster, Aurora, Greenwood Village and others, and said many jurisdictions have passed similar resolutions in support.
Mayor Moore and Mayor Pro Tem Bell framed the resolution as a position in defense of local control. Council Member O'Connor, who said he had served on a home‑rule charter commission, argued Erie should support local control even when Erie itself is not directly affected. Staff explained that the resolution was intended as a statement of principle and not a commitment to join litigation.
The council discussed state measures referenced in the packet — described in the meeting as “House Bill 13 13” and a bill addressing minimum parking requirements — and reaffirmed that the Town’s own local standards remain in force. The resolution passed on the voice vote called by the mayor. The council did not authorize the town to join the litigation; the document records only a formal expression of support.
