City Council hearing on The Launchpad is Tuesday, August 8th.  It is item 12C on the agenda and estimated to begin at around 3pm, but you can check the progress on City Council's Facebook page or, if it's working, their link via Granicus.  To attend and comment in person, the hearings are upstair in the City Hall building.  107 N Nevada Ave # 300. 

Here is the call-in information:

Before the meeting, you may email general comments for items not on the agenda or comments regarding agenda items to: allcouncil@coloradosprings.gov During the meeting, those who wish to comment should submit their name, telephone number, and the topic or agenda item for comment via allcouncil@coloradosprings.gov in addition to calling +1 720-617-3426 United States, Denver (Toll) and entering this Conference ID: 673 980 808#

Read the shock from the Ruth Washburn Nursery School parents and take the survey!  

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The Place/Launchpad is the $20 million taxpayer funded 4 story homeless apartment complex proposed to be built at 810 N. 19th Street next to Ruth Washburn Nursery School.  Neighbors have expressed justifiable concerns about the impact to crime and their property values.  In addition, we have learned that a geological survey that has not been disclosed to the public showed that building at that location may cause geological instability that could cause significant damage to homes in the area.  For those who were not able to attend the 8/22/2022 meeting, you can read the transcript which includes concerns from neighbors.  The way the City sells these projects is to bring in many faith-based and economic development nonprofits (like the HBA) to shame citizens by claiming they are against finding affordable housing to help the homeless.  None of the people opposing this are against helping the homeless; however, this is not the proper location for a homeless facility which are usually located in urban areas for access to health services, walkability to public transportation, etc.  This is a residential neighborhood that is zoned historic.  Additionally, existing residents have legitimate concerns about the impact to their property values and public safety. 

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MOST IMPORTANTLY:  The Launchpad will not be clearing the current homeless population in that area which will be constantly tempted by the ubiquitous drug usage in that area.  We believe the solution is as follows:  An urban Homeless Campus with, essentially two wings.  One wing allows those who wish to continue to use drugs to do so in a safe, controlled setting.  The other wing is for those who want to rehab.  Staffed with medical personnel and counseling, both population are served with contractual obligations, where possible.  For the homeless population who wants to live in a tent or on the street of which there are many, like Austin, Texas, a Homeless Camp with showers and toilets and maintenance to clear needles/service showers/toilets is created.  So, the choice is:

1. Go to the Homeless Campus with medical and rehab services and contractual obligations.

2. Go to the Homeless Camp.

3. Leave town or face arrest.

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Here is the appeal that was filed which, essentially, notes that our City zoning code is being violated.  As noted above, we have also learned that the original geological study which was not submitted to the city required a change in the development plan.  We have asked for that study which is part of the need for the postponement.  A geological expert has expressed concern about the stability of the hill.