Land swap debate continues

controversial land swap. tonight.. colorado springs mayor john suthers made a stand.. in support of the deal with the broadmoor. the controversial land swap involves 189 acres of pubic land.. an area called strawberry fields.. on the southwest side of colorado springs.. and 300 acres near the manitou incline — property that is private right now. mayor suthers faced a room full of people on both sides of the land swap. and not everyone on council agrees with the mayor.. krdo newschannel 13’s greg miller was there. he joins us live tonight from city hall. very passionate – opponents even some members of council voiced concerns over this proposal. but the mayor is confident this deal is best for everyone. a serene and peaceful area remains the site of controversy 56:09 music lights, alcohol, it’s a huge impact at the base of cheyenne canyon. 56:24 we shall win 18:08:50 i would not favor such a transaction unless it was from a standpoint, clearly in the interest of the city. if the city got more than it was giving up. mayor john suthers defending the broadmoor land swap. 18:09:57 8 1/2 acres here. all the entire rest of this property is going to be available for public use. but the city council isn’t totally on board. 18:42:39 are you saying we should not do this on a ballot? suthers: i don’t think anything that should not be required to go to a vote should go to a vote. that’s my view of public policy, you can have a different one. 15:43 greg: opponents have said this area needs to stay the way it is. but the nearby broadmoor hotel says it can do more. the broadmoor would keep all but 8 1/2 acres open, with the remaining area for picnic space and horse stables. 18:54:23 as to the picnic faciltiies, yes you’d have access to them by calling the broadmoor and reserving it. 22:42:28 i’m sick over it. gibb hazard lives nearby. 23:24:19 this is not a place for stables. and put a picnic area next to the stable? isn’t that weird? if the opposition here is any sign – 56:50 there should be a public process first. and they’re talking about it after the whole thing is signed. their fight over this open space, is far from over. the council will vote on the ordinance later this month. depending on that decision, it could go to a public vote. live in cs, gm, nc 13. people living in