Denver rejects private pool, so the developer may try affordable housing instead – Denverite

Ilan Salzberg’s Private Swim Club Proposal Rejected by Denver City Council

The Denver City Council voted against a rezoning proposal for Ilan Salzberg’s private swim club project, putting an end to his long-held dream of building a members-only pool in his neighborhood. Salzberg, a developer and West Highland resident, purchased a vacant 33,000-square-foot parcel of land on Wolff Street in November 2023 for $2 million. The site is located between homes and across the street from a Sprouts grocery store.

Salzberg’s Vision for the Swim Club

Salzberg’s concept plans included a 25-yard outdoor lap pool, a clubhouse with an indoor pool, and an event space. Access to the facility would only be granted to individuals who bought into the club and paid annual fees. Salzberg estimated the initial buy-in cost to be between $15,000 and $30,000, comparable to the price of a used car.

To proceed with the project, Salzberg needed the council members to rezone the property, which is currently zoned for single-unit housing. Before the vote, Salzberg had garnered support from the West Highland Neighborhood Association, the city’s Community Planning and Development office, and numerous neighbors.

Concerns Raised by Neighbors

However, over 100 residents of West Highland signed a letter opposing the rezoning proposal, expressing concerns about the potential negative impacts of the private club on the neighborhood. They cited worries about excessive noise, increased traffic, and parking issues. During the public hearing, critics also questioned the equity and affordability of a private luxury pool club in a diverse neighborhood with working-class families and retirees.

City Council Rejects the Rezoning

The city council ultimately voted 11-1 against the rezoning, with some members questioning the equitable use of land. Councilmember Sarah Parady highlighted the importance of not creating exclusive facilities that only benefit the wealthiest individuals, as it goes against the principles of equity. Councilmember Paul Kashmann emphasized the need to address the affordability crisis in Denver and argued that the proposed swim club would not contribute to that goal. Councilmember Kevin Flynn stated that the project did not meet the criteria of the zoning code.

Salzberg Considers Affordable Housing

Following the rejection of his swim club proposal, Salzberg is exploring alternative options for the property. He mentioned the possibility of developing affordable or workforce housing on the site, which is currently zoned for single-unit housing. However, Salzberg expressed skepticism about gaining support from neighbors and city officials due to the area’s classification as a low-density residential neighborhood in the city’s comprehensive land use and transportation plan, Blueprint Denver.

SDGs, Targets, and Indicators

1. SDG 11: Sustainable Cities and Communities

   • Target 11.1: By 2030, ensure access for all to adequate, safe, and affordable housing and basic services and upgrade slums.
   • Target 11.7: By 2030, provide universal access to safe, inclusive, and accessible, green, and public spaces, in particular for women and children, older persons, and persons with disabilities.

The issues highlighted in the article are related to the proposed construction of a private swim club in a residential neighborhood. The rejection of the rezoning proposal by the city council raises concerns about equitable land use and access to amenities. The following SDGs, targets, and indicators are relevant to these issues:

1. SDG 11: Sustainable Cities and Communities

   • Target 11.1: By 2030, ensure access for all to adequate, safe, and affordable housing and basic services and upgrade slums.

   The rejection of the rezoning proposal for the private swim club suggests that the city council prioritizes equitable land use and access to amenities for all residents. This aligns with the target of ensuring access to adequate, safe, and affordable housing and basic services.

2. SDG 11: Sustainable Cities and Communities

   • Target 11.7: By 2030, provide universal access to safe, inclusive, and accessible, green, and public spaces, in particular for women and children, older persons, and persons with disabilities.

   The concerns raised by residents and council members about the private swim club being exclusive and catering primarily to well-off individuals highlight the importance of providing inclusive and accessible public spaces. The rejection of the proposal indicates a commitment to ensuring universal access to safe and inclusive spaces for all community members.

Table: SDGs, Targets, and Indicators

Source: denverite.com