Parker Town Council

20120 E. Mainstreet

Parker, CO 80138

Dear Council Members,

As a resident of the Rowley Downs neighborhood, I write to express my concern and opposition to the proposed location of the Parker Task Force food bank. I fully support the Task Force and its noteworthy efforts to serve the community, but feel the planned location for the food bank is inappropriate. I ask that you work with the Task Force to find a better site for its food bank.

I oppose the current location because:

● The proposed warehouse-like facility does not match the quality of other buildings developed on the Town Campus. I understand that to match the quality would be cost-prohibitive for the Task Force, thus it would a better fit in commercial/industrial areas of Parker, where construction quality and aesthetics are less important.

● The “commercial-like” activities of a food bank are inconsistent with its proposed location on the Town Campus and next to a residential neighborhood.

● One of the most important aspects of Parker is its open land, parks and trails. The proposed location currently offers an aesthetic natural area by Sulpher Gulch Trail and space for use in Town activities and fairs. For this area to be replaced by a warehouse facility would be a significant loss to the community.

● The property's position at the eastern end of the Town Campus is significant. It offers the first impression of the historic downtown for people coming from the east. Locating a warehouse-like facility would dramatically diminish the visual beauty of the campus.

● Rowley Downs is Parker's “original” neighborhood development. Maintaining its unique and historical character is important in maintaining the quality of downtown Parker. I believe the proposed plan for a food-bank facility at the development's entrance may seriously impact Rowley Downs property values and, thus, eventually downtown Parker.

I believe it is in the best interests of the town and Parker and Rowley Downs residents to designate the plot as open land, a community park or hold it for future Town needs more consistent with the overall purpose of the Town Campus.

Thank your for your consideration. I ask that you act to ensure the property continues to be a valuable asset to the community and town.

Sincerely,