UPDATE: Boulder County is set to hold an urgent public hearing on Riverside Cabins at 1 p.m. Tuesday, addressing ongoing zoning violations that threaten the future of this popular lodging destination near Lyons. The owner, Rockmont Investments LLC, is seeking a special use review to designate the cabins as a resort lodge, which would allow for licensed cabin rentals.
This critical meeting comes after Boulder County officials rescheduled the hearing due to incorrect notification dates sent to neighbors. The hearing will take place both virtually and in person at the Boulder County Courthouse located at 1325 Pearl St., Boulder. Residents can sign up to speak virtually at bit.ly/49A4Cqv.
Authorities are recommending approval for the resort lodge designation, which would enable up to 34 overnight guests across five buildings on approximately five acres. However, the Boulder County Planning Commission has proposed limiting guest capacity to 28 unless the septic system is upgraded to handle more occupants. The ongoing situation has raised concerns from local residents about potential overcrowding and its impact on neighborhood resources.
Neighbors have voiced their frustrations over the owner’s past actions, including unpermitted renovations and rental activities that reportedly continued even after county orders to cease operations. The county has been monitoring the situation closely, with Code Compliance Planning Manager Jesse Rounds confirming that violations have been documented. The county can impose a one-time fine of $1,000 plus $100 per day until compliance is achieved, although fines have not yet been enforced as the owner has been working towards the special use review.
The Riverside Cabins property bears a rich history, dating back to the late 1800s when it was known as Welch Resort. It most recently operated as Shelly’s Cottages until the aftermath of the devastating 2013 flood led to its closure. Local residents, including Cat Oehlman, are concerned about the implications of granting the special use designation, emphasizing the need for oversight and community consideration. Oehlman, who lives next to the property, expressed her discontent over the lack of on-site management, stating, “We want oversight.”
With the public hearing just hours away, the outcome of this review could significantly alter the landscape of the neighborhood and set a precedent for future developments in the area. Neighbors have raised alarms about increased noise, traffic, and safety concerns associated with a larger number of guests.
The Boulder County staff is also suggesting the property be granted historic landmark status to preserve its aesthetic while allowing the reopening of its historic lodging use. However, the property owner has objected to this condition, raising further questions about the future of Riverside Cabins.
Residents are urged to participate in the hearing to voice their opinions on this pressing issue. The community’s feedback will be crucial in determining the next steps for Riverside Cabins and its impact on the local area.
Stay tuned for live updates following the hearing as this situation develops.
