Residents voice opposition over density, water, and developer compliance at Mountain Estates hearing

Public comment at the special hearing was lengthy and largely adversarial to the annexation as proposed. Speakers raised several recurring themes: opposition to the subdivision's higher density relative to current town lots; concern about a proposed road connection to Vista West Drive; skepticism about the developer's compliance history and financial stability; and worries about the town's water supply and long‑term maintenance obligations. Lauren Preston presented a petition signed by 163 residents recommending the Council vote against annexation.

Specific appeals included a request from Boyd Siddoway that the public read the full Water Utility Board report rather than relying on summaries, and multiple residents asked the Council to use access control on Vista West Drive to limit traffic impacts. Some speakers suggested narrow compromises—Dale Hoyt said removing all multi‑family units could reduce opposition—while others pressed for a 90‑day extension for additional public input. Supporters said annexation would allow the Town to impose stricter standards and bring affordable townhome options; Ed Koontz argued the developer bears the upfront infrastructure costs. One resident, Lee Staley, said he drove 600 miles to attend the meeting to voice opposition.