Property Rights Under Assault in Douglas and Jefferson Counties

On Monday, March 6, 2023, Kim Monson broadcasts from western Wyoming to examine the assault on property rights in Colorado. Holly Green discusses the fight against a 220-unit subsidized housing development in Douglas County’s single-family neighborhoods, while Taralyn Romero shares her ongoing battle with Jefferson County commissioners attempting to seize her Kittredge property.

Subsidized Housing Threatens Single-Family Neighborhoods

Start listening at 32:09 – Hour 1

In the first hour, Holly Green joins Kim to discuss a controversial 220-unit, four to five-story apartment complex proposed for a single-family neighborhood in Douglas County near Parker. Despite the Douglas County Planning Commission voting 8-0 to deny the rezoning request in December 2022, two of three county commissioners voted to approve the development.

Green explains how more than 300 neighbors have organized to fight the decision through a judicial review, arguing that commissioners Lora Thomas and George Thiel acted arbitrarily by ignoring the county’s own master plan criteria. The development would bring 500 residents into an area with no high-density housing within a two-mile radius.

“The neighbors are restricted to three-minute comments, not allowed to present anything, not allowed to show imagery. It’s a really interesting system, how skewed it is and how set up it is for these developers to come in and pretty much do whatever they want to do.”

Holly Green, Douglas County Property Rights Advocate

Government Land Grab in Kittredge

Start listening at 66:52 – Hour 2

In hour two, Taralyn Romero provides an update on Jefferson County’s lawsuit to take control of her property in Kittredge. Romero purchased her dream home in March 2021, only to discover that previous owners had allowed neighbors to access Bear Creek through her backyard. When she closed access to her property, the county filed suit in July 2022.

The case highlights a disturbing pattern where government entities claim property rights based on “belief” rather than legal documentation. Despite surveys, deed language, and tax records all confirming Romero’s ownership, Jefferson County commissioners continue pursuing the land grab, using taxpayer dollars to fund their legal battle.

“What happens to me becomes case law and it can happen to you. It sets a precedent that encourages government to do similar land grabs.”

Taralyn Romero, Kittredge Property Owner

Legislative Threats to Constitutional Rights

Kim also discusses House Bill 23-1230, which would prohibit so-called “assault weapons” in Colorado, noting that the bill exempts government officials while disarming law-abiding citizens. Additionally, she covers House Bill 23-1210 on carbon management, with the Colorado Union of Taxpayers recommending a no vote, arguing that carbon dioxide is essential plant food.