Monument Planning Commission, Aug. 13 – Planning Commission seeks community input on future development

By Janet Sellers

The Monument Planning Commission held a meeting Aug. 13 to discuss potential development standards for undeveloped properties adjacent to residential areas, emphasizing the community’s desire to preserve the town’s small-town character. At this meeting, town Planner Dan Ungerlieder introduced Valerie Baumer, recently appointed as an alternate member of the Planning Commission by the Town Council. The commission continues to seek members to act as alternates when needed.

Baumer’s professional background includes project management, risk management assessments, and government planning (primarily military/government contexts). She expressed enthusiasm to learn and contribute, noting similarities between local planning processes and her prior work. The commission welcomed her; no questions were asked.

The commissioners expressed concerns about how certain commercial uses—such as hotels, drive-thrus, banks, and outdoor entertainment—could impact home values and neighborhood character. They stressed the importance of maintaining the “small-town feel” that residents value, while still allowing for carefully planned commercial growth.

Staff members, including Maryam Moradian, senior planner, clarified that any zoning changes would primarily apply to undeveloped parcels and that spot zoning is not allowed. Options under consideration include amending planned unit developments (PUDs) or establishing contract-based restrictions for property sales, specifying allowed uses, building placement, and design standards. Commissioners highlighted Front Street’s small-scale development as a potential model, featuring live-work units and retail spaces suitable for small businesses.

The commission voted 7-0 to pause further discussion until the staff can refine proposals, develop clear standards, and provide additional analysis. The staff will also engage with the community to gather input on what types of development residents find acceptable near homes.

Other announcements during the meeting included updates on Monument’s comprehensive plan, ongoing public outreach efforts, and preliminary stormwater assessments from consultants. The staff noted that findings will guide long-term planning and funding for infrastructure improvements, particularly regarding the Fountain Creek watershed.

The planning staff also reminded the commissioners that all meeting resources—including municipal codes, past planning documents, and research reports—are being compiled into an accessible online binder to aid in decision-making and public transparency.

The commission plans to revisit the discussion once the staff returns with refined proposals and recommendations, including detailed maps and standards for potential small-scale commercial development. Residents are encouraged to stay engaged as the process unfolds, with opportunities for public input continuing through the comprehensive plan updates later this fall.

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The commission advises the Town Council on land use and development issues. The commission’s recommendations are based on local and state laws, zoning, and municipal codes.

The Planning Commission usually meets on the second Wednesday of each month. The next meeting is scheduled for Sept. 10, according to the website schedule. For further information on Planning Commission meetings, please visit www.townofmonument.org/263/planning-commission-board-of-adjustment or contact 719-884-8028. A recording with a transcript of the meeting is also available.

Janet Sellers can be reached at JanetSellers@ocn.me.

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