DILLON — While trying to breathe life into sleepy Dillon, town council's formation of an urban renewal authority has also inspired fear. What locals are worrying about is the potential for eminent domain.

Town council's attempt to build a unique vision for a new Dillon will likely include an eminent domain clause they say will be used only as a last resort. So far, Dillon has been reluctant to set a stance on the inclusion of eminent domain within the urban renewal draft, and council members still want public comment on the subject.

“What eats away at my heart is that people's biggest concern (about the urban renewal authority) is eminent domain,” said Mayor Barbara Davis, noting that she supports limiting the reach of land seizure to alleviate concerns about it.

And Devin Granbery, Dillon's town manager agreed: “I don't want to go down this road, ever.”

One example of locals fearing eminent domain is the Yacht Club Homeowner's Association, a condo complex in Dillon. Yacht Club representatives expressed concerns over the town potentially using eminent domain to seize its prime lake-front land. Yacht Club is currently suing the town over parking issues caused by road reconstruction.

Yet, concerns that homeowners will be displaced may be unfounded. During a recent work session with town staff, council members generally leaned toward having the power of eminent domain for non-residential properties only, unless it's a “friendly” agreement. They also said they'd like to have an eminent domain issue passed by ordinance with a public hearing.

Even so, council members also voiced concerns about limiting the scope of eminent domain, and thus tying their hands when planning for a worst-case scenario.

Public forum continues

Dillon's urban renewal authority, made up of town council members, was formed two months ago in hopes of bringing economic growth and more people to the quiet town facing challenges on the tourism front.

Council and staff are working on finalizing the plan draft for approval at the June 21 town meeting. The town aims to keep its urban renewal plan broad in scope to encourage new town projects.

Dillon doesn't have any specific proposals for town revitalization at this point, but town officials say they're open to all possibilities for attracting businesses and full-time residents within town limits.

Public hearings on the new urban renewal plan started June 2, where residents have spoken for or against the plan. The last open forum on the urban renewal project will be June 21 at town hall.

Caitlin Row can be reached at (970) 668-4633 or at crow@summitdaily.com.