Woodland Park City Council Approves Two-Year Extension for Base Camp Apartments

During the Woodland Park City Council meeting on August 21, 2025, a significant discussion centered around the request for a two-year extension of a conditional use permit for the Base Camp Apartments project. The permit, originally approved on May 18, 2023, had expired on May 18, 2025, leading to a heated debate about the adherence to municipal code and the implications of granting the extension.

A public speaker, Mr. Wiseman, urged the council to deny the extension, emphasizing that the municipal code clearly states that permits expire two years after approval and cannot be revived. He argued that granting the extension would undermine the integrity of the city's legal framework and set a dangerous precedent for future applications. Wiseman's remarks highlighted the importance of upholding the law over past practices, which he described as inconsistent and potentially legally indefensible.

In response, city staff defended the decision to consider the extension, citing historical practices where applications received before expiration were allowed to proceed. They noted that the application for the extension was submitted on May 15, 2025, just three days before the permit lapsed, and argued that the council had the prerogative to review such requests based on past precedents.

The council ultimately voted on the extension, with a motion to approve the two-year extension passing with a 4-2 vote. Council members expressed differing views on the necessity of extensions, but the majority felt comfortable proceeding based on the historical context and the ongoing efforts of the developers.

This decision reflects the ongoing tension between strict adherence to municipal codes and the practical realities of development processes. As Woodland Park continues to navigate its growth and housing demands, the implications of this vote may resonate in future council discussions and decisions regarding development permits and community planning.