Tellez Developed Campground Appeal (Eco-Camp)

Expressed concerns about the lack of a glamping definition in codes, traffic congestion, public health and safety, and the need for Douglas County to have stronger first-approval oversight with TRPA.

Stated that summer traffic in Zephyr Cove has become dangerously congested and unsustainable, urging the board to require more studies before considering additional tourist projects.

Shared experiences as the Elk Point Country Club caretaker dealing with blocked entrances, illegal parking, and emergency vehicle access issues during summer months.

Argued that the project violates recreation zoning restrictions, involves commercial lodging rather than camping, will remove hundreds of trees, and worsens traffic and fire safety.

Asked the board to grant the appeal and overturn the design review, citing flawed traffic studies conducted in May rather than peak summer, parking overflow, and neighborhood impacts.

Questioned why TRPA and local planning bodies approved a massive transformation of forest land without adequate studies, noting cumulative development pressures on the east shore.

Elk Point HOA vice president noted severe summer traffic gridlock and questioned the validity of the traffic study numbers compared to local emergency service calls.

Described rampant illegal parking, road rage, and dangerous traffic backups on Elks Point Road, making it unsafe for residents to leave their neighborhood on weekends.

Cited local transient occupancy tax data showing 100% higher room sales in peak months versus May, arguing that traffic multipliers used in the study were inaccurate.

Emphasized public safety concerns, noting that Elks Point Road is the only access in and out for 90 homes, Nevada Beach, and a campground, creating severe evacuation risks during emergencies.

Expressed frustration with constant development pressure on the east side of the lake, sharing professional experiences with wildfire evacuations and fears of being trapped in traffic.

Elk Point HOA president shared personal experience of a 2018 house fire and warned that summer traffic congestion would impede emergency response and evacuation.

Argued that the project is a commercial hotel and event venue disguised as a campground, with massive cumulative impacts on constrained infrastructure.

Appellant representative thanked the board, emphasized that the project fails to meet campground definitions, and urged commissioners to reclaim their oversight authority from TRPA.