In a recent government meeting, officials discussed the long-standing issue of annexation to Castle Rock, focusing on the balance between property rights and municipal planning. Attorney Bill Kyriagis presented the case of the Walker family, who have spent two decades and over a million dollars attempting to navigate the annexation process with the town. He emphasized that Colorado's constitution protects landowners from involuntary annexation, asserting that the Walkers cannot be forced to annex their property without their consent.
Kyriagis highlighted that the town's insistence on annexation as a prerequisite for development violates the Walkers' rights. He noted that despite their efforts to collaborate with the town, the Walkers have not found a willing partner, leading to frustration and a desire for fair evaluation of their development plans by the county.
The discussion included a proposal for the Walkers to negotiate with Castle Rock for annexation after receiving county approval for their development plan. This approach aims to respect the Walkers' constitutional rights while fostering a potential agreement with the town. The meeting concluded with a commitment to initiate negotiations within 120 days of the county's approval, signaling a renewed effort to resolve the long-standing issue.