Civic Issues
Topics getting the most attention in Alpine public meetings, ranked by how frequently they are discussed.
7 issues in zoning with high priority
Fences, Walls, and Hedges Code Amendments
City leaders proposed major changes to fence rules, including lowering maximum fence heights, restricting chain-link materials, and changing how fence heights are measured from natural grade. Commissioners tabled the topic after criticizing it as government overreach.
Silverleaf Plat B Subdivision Amendment and Trail Access
Property owners successfully petitioned to eliminate an overgrown, unused common area trail and revert it to adjacent lots, with the city securing essential utility and public trail access.
Development Code Text Amendments
Residents and council members proposed a new ordinance to protect iconic mountain and valley views by regulating building heights, massing, and vegetation. However, commissioners and public speakers raised strong concerns about enforcement, subjectivity, and infringement on private property rights.
Main Street and Gateway Corridor Master Plan
Alpine reviewed a long-term visioning draft for Main Street and gateway corridors funded by a MAG grant. Residents and commissioners discussed traffic calming, rural character preservation, and commercial leakage, deciding to break the document down into manageable sections for review.
Non-Conforming Building Reconstruction at 480 East 100 South
Property owners sought approval to rebuild a home on an undersized non-conforming lot. Neighbors raised concerns about the height, scale, and loss of privacy, leading the council to deny the application.
Scenic View and Hillside Protection
The city council debated how to address resident concerns over large structures blocking scenic mountain views, ultimately deciding to work on more targeted regulations instead of a broad, restrictive ordinance.
School Bulk and Massing Standards
The city proposed changing school bulk and massing calculations from building footprint to total square footage. School representatives and engineers raised concerns that Alpine's restrictions are overly strict compared to other cities, prompting the commission to table the item for further research.