Expanding Horizons: The 187-acre Slate Creek Property
In a significant move towards enhancing recreational spaces and managing urban growth, Steamboat Springs City Council has approved the purchase of a 187-acre property near the city’s municipal airport. This acquisition, known as the Slate Creek property, is expected to provide much-needed open space and facilitate the development of a new regional park, addressing a long-standing issue that has been central to discussions surrounding the Brown Ranch annexation.
The land is strategically located adjacent to the Yampa Valley Housing Authority’s Brown Ranch property. This proximity has been crucial since the idea of acquiring the Slate Creek property first emerged during the city’s finalization of the annexation agreement last fall, which was ultimately rejected by voters in March. Despite the setback, the new parkland purchase has effectively resolved one of the key concerns raised during the annexation talks.
Council’s Vision: A Regional Park for Steamboat Springs
“The whole reason this parcel came up was that it had the potential to provide space for a regional park when we were arguing and getting nowhere,” remarked Council member Joella West. With the first reading of the park deal unanimously approved, the city council still needs to pass it on the second reading to finalize the acquisition.
City parks staff have successfully negotiated a contract that allows two years to apply for grants to cover the $5.25 million purchase price. Parks and Recreation Director Angela Cosby is optimistic about the funding prospects, stating they have a list of potential grants that could entirely cover the cost, although there is no guarantee of securing all of them.
Additionally, the city generates approximately $2 million annually from Accommodations Tax, a revenue stream that can now be utilized for property acquisitions following voter approval of updated spending language in November. If the full amount cannot be raised through grants, the city council will have to decide whether to fund the difference or back out of the deal, with $200,000 in non-refundable earnest money already committed.
Looking Forward: Future Park Amenities and Open Space
While the parkland purchase is a significant step forward, residents should temper their expectations regarding immediate developments. As Joella West noted, the land acquisition is just the beginning, with construction on new park facilities still several years away. The conceptual plan for the park includes designating 46 acres for a regional park and over 130 acres as open space, with specific design elements to be determined after the city finalizes the land purchase.
The vision for the Slate Creek property also includes a network of trails and preservation of wildlife corridors. West shared an anecdote from a visit to the land, where she witnessed a herd of antelope and elk, underscoring the importance of preserving this area for its ecological value.
Addressing Concerns: Conflict of Interest and Transparency
During the discussions, an eyebrow-raising exchange occurred between council members over potential conflicts of interest. Council member Bryan Swintek questioned if any conflicts existed, specifically pointing to West’s personal relationship with the property owner. West quickly asserted that there was no conflict, and the council agreed that her relationship did not necessitate recusal.
Council member Michael Buccino emphasized the impracticality of recusing themselves from decisions based on personal relationships in a small town like Steamboat Springs, advocating for a more balanced approach.
Expanding Open Space: Copper Ridge Opportunity
In addition to the Slate Creek property, the Parks staff presented details on another potential acquisition near Copper Ridge. This 1,000-acre parcel, introduced by partners from the Trust for Public Lands and the Nature Conservancy, includes approximately 840 acres of open space and 160 acres of working ranch. The land is adjacent to Bureau of Land Management land and serves as a winter range for various wildlife species, with plans for future trail networks.
While the utilization of the ranch remains undetermined, Cosby suggested it could be an opportunity for partnerships with local nonprofits, further enhancing the community’s recreational and ecological resources.
Conclusion: A Strategic Step for Steamboat Springs
The purchase of the Slate Creek property marks a significant milestone for Steamboat Springs, addressing long-standing issues of recreational space and urban growth. As the city moves forward with its plans, the new parkland promises to enhance the quality of life for residents while preserving the natural beauty and ecological integrity of the area.