An outhouse now sits atop Mount Carbon in suburban Denver, obstructing a previously uninterrupted 360-degree view. The City of Lakewood installed the latrine building in May 2002, despite complaints of Lakewood resident Steve Holben whose initial concerns (raised before installation was complete) have resulted in the Save Mount Carbon effort.
The outhouse structure is the byproduct of the Homestead at Fox Hollow Golf Course, located on the eastern side of Mount Carbon northwest of the Highway 285 and Kipling interchange. Both are contained in a 2,068-acre parcel of land at Bear Creek Lake owned by the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers and leased to the City of Lakewood for park and recreational services under a 50-year agreement.
This effort isn't in any way against the golf course. Or, is it against proper toileting facilities for the general public. Concern is over Mount Carbon's historic, 360-degree view that is now obstructed by an outhouse. There has to be somewhere else to put the structure.
Most recently Steve Holben spoke to the Lakewood City Council recapping the ongoing Save Mount Carbon issue (now entering into its third year) and discussed continued concerns about the blocked view corridor atop Lakewood's Mount Carbon. Links to a copy of Holben's 4/26/04 remarks to the City Council and a handout piece are found below.
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Support first came to Save Mount Carbon with an endorsement from the Sierra Club-Rachel Carson Group of Jefferson County (accessible by clicking the link provided below). In addition, renowned nature photographer and preservationist John Fielder and, most recently, Scenic Colorado added endorsements to the effort (quotes are found on this page by scrolling down).
To share your opinion or lend support, call 303-984-9801 or fax 303-986-4630. An e-mail link is provided below. Plus, a support form is provided by clicking the "How You Can Help" tab on each page of this website.
In addition you can call the City of Lakewood at 303-987-7000 and ask that the outhouse be relocated.
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"Lakewood has compromised scenic values in the case of Mt. Carbon. Putting a conspicuous latrine on an unblemished site with 360 degree views hurts the reputation of Lakewood and the citizens who would enjoy the vista.
The potty mess is unfortunate but not irreversible. It can be cleaned up. Scenic Colorado asks Lakewood to standup for scenic values by removing the outhouse to a less "commanding" position and perhaps install some picnic tables so folks can sit down and enjoy the view."
Larry B. Barrett
President, Scenic Colorado
August 6, 2002
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"Colorado views are almost as important as Colorado landscapes. They keep Earth-caring people sane and motivated, and convert Nature-disconnected folks from the dark side. Lakewood leadership: Find a better place for the Mt. Carbon toilets." John Fielder, Nature Photographer.
June 12, 2002
Mr. Fielder created Colorado's best-selling book ever, "Colorado: 1870-2000."
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This site
updated
4/20/2008
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Give this project a vote of confidence by clicking here and faxing or mailing your petition of support.
Thank you.
In addition you can call
the City of at 303-987-7000 and ask
that the outhouse be
relocated.
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