The Crested Butte News Serving the Gunnison Valley since 1999
WUI revisited
Commissioners revisited the new state wildland urban interface (WUI) codes compared with the county’s; a few adjustments were made to align with the state codes. The adjustments mostly related to what triggers changes to defensible space and hardening zone standards for landscaping, and to using less combustible exterior building materials. Gunnison County has opted to apply the code to all land parcels and not exempt 35-acre parcels as the state has done. Commissioners approved the changes unanimously and implementation will take effect June 3.
Hartman Castle designated historic
Commissioners unanimously approved the Hartman Castle for designation as an official historic landmark, which will make it easier for interested parties to secure grant funding. The Hartman Castle Preservation Corporation is pursuing fundraising opportunities to purchase the property from its current owners.
Crystal townsite buildings designated historic
Stuart Gillespy, the owner of several historic buildings within the former Crystal townsite near Marble, also requested historic landmark designation for six buildings on his property, which include four miners’ cabins, a former general store/post office and the former Crystal Club dance hall/saloon, all built in the 19th century.
Commissioners approved the application unanimously after a brief discussion of the designation’s implications for the applicant requesting to make future land use change applications. Gillaspey had previously shared his vision in 2021 to develop just over 750 acres in Crystal for a high-end resort there, along with his business partner. “These buildings help to tell the heritage story of this fascinating and beautiful corner of Gunnison County,” according to a county staff report. The county historic preservation commission also approved.
Joining Colorado Communities for Climate Action
Gunnison County will join the Colorado Communities for Climate Action (CC4CA), a coalition of state municipalities and counties that advocate for federal and state policies to protect the climate, reduce air pollution and support clean energy. Commissioners received a presentation from a CC4C representative earlier this year.
Comments to BOR
Commissioners approved a letter to the Bureau of Reclamation (BOR) regarding the Draft Final Environmental Impact Study for post 2026 operational guidelines at Lake Mead and Lake Powell. The letter expressed several concerns and opposing perspectives to the BOR’s study.
