PORTIONS OF LETTER

TO:
City of Littleton
Planning Commission

FROM:
Robert Hoban, Attorney at Law
Representing Littleton Against Wal-Mart

RE: Wal-Mart Rezoning Application

The application should be denied for failure to comply with the Littleton Municipal Code.
Upon review of the Applicant’s public file, it is apparent that the subject application cannot stand muster under the Littleton Municipal Code. (because it) …requires compliance with the COMPLAN…and fails to comport with the COMPLAN for the following reasons:

1
The COMPLAN unequivocally sets forth a goal of “developing Littleton’s economic independence and reemphasizing downtown as Littleton’s economic and social center.”

The market entry effect of a large scale format retailer, such as Wal-Mart, on Littleton’s downtown will be devastating, as it will drive business away from downtown and have a depressive effect on the same.

2
COMPLAN requires the City to “Acquire and maintain sufficient park, recreation land, open space and trails to maintain a proper balance between developed and recreational land…”

By allowing the proposed Wal-Mart Supercenter, the City is effectively cutting off views and access to the nearby park…

3
COMPLAN requires the City to preserve existing neighborhood values while encouraging any new development to make the most efficient use of land, resulting in the highest possible standard of living…

Developing a 180,000 square foot commercial center…changes the face of the neighborhood entirely.

4
COMPLAN stresses that the City should “strengthen the identity of entrances into Littleton.”

A large scale commercial center will neither provide Littleton with identity, nor signify a welcoming invitation to the City.

5
COMPLAN requires that the City “encourage the retention of the historic and ‘small town’ character of Main Street.”

Again, the effect Wal-Mart will likely have on downtown Littleton will be devastating both economically and aesthetically.

6
COMPLAN provides that “all alternatives be examined to reduce traffic congestion in the Central Area.”

The introduction of a large scale Supercenter will not serve this policy.

* * *

The letter goes on to include six additional reasons that the application for rezoning does not comply with the Municipal Code because the Code requires compliance with the COMPLAN.

Please read the entire letter here:

Hoban to Planning Commission Letter.pdf

Share your thoughts about it and Wal-Mart’s proposal for coming to Littleton in this location.

Our cozy and protected neighborhood is a shining example of quality of life. The upscale retail center is family and pet friendly; a hub of community-inspired activity all summer long. Add to that the nature center and Hudson Gardens with its summer events and concerts, and an adjacent country club and golf community. It is easy to see. Everything is planned, purposed, and prioritized responsibly with respect to the Platte River trails and wildlife reserves and the central role it plays in the community.

Wal-Mart in the middle of it is like a turd in a punchbowl.

Pam Steiner