Proposed Crested Butte annexation also on the town’s (northern) horizon

But a company by the name of Cypress Equities recently purchased the property from a bank. According to town manager Todd Crossett, the new developers contacted the town this summer about starting a new process for an annexation. No formal application has been submitted but Crossett told the Town Council at its meeting on August 5 that Cypress Equities representatives have come to the town staff asking for initial thoughts and concerns about a possible annexation of the property. “We expect a formal application in probably a month,” Crossett said. “When that happens, the town will begin a formal process. An annexation means the potential for major legislative and negotiation elements.” Town attorney, John Belkin, said the council had two ways to handle the process. Last time, in 2008, the council chose to have a formal quasi-judicial outlook. That meant no “ex parte” communication between the council and the applicants so all negotiation and discussion took place in formal meetings. The other alternative was to take a more legislative role where the council could have negotiating leeway. Belkin will be advising the council on the pros and cons of each direction when the application is submitted. According to Crested Butte building and zoning director Bob Gillie, “The town code states there is an application fee established by resolution of the council at the time of application of the concept plan. Most certainly there will be a reimbursement agreement as well.” A phone call to Cypress Equities asking about the preliminary proposal was not returned.