The Boulder City Council did not pursue an emergency ban on so-called “McMansions” on Tuesday night after an outpouring of comments from homeowners and builders frustrated over the rushed public process.

The issue has been on council’s agenda since the start of the year. Members have expressed concern that smaller houses are being demolished and replaced with bigger, more expensive homes. Proposals were discussed at a September study session, but Tuesday’s vote was a last-minute move.

Twenty-two people showed up to speak before the hastily scheduled vote. All but a handful opposed the proposed moratorium, which would temporarily stop the permitting of homes larger than 3,500 square feet on lots of 10,000 square feet or more.

“To declare this an emergency is an insult to the actual emergencies this community does face,” added Tim Ryan. “I’ve spent the last nine months following all the rules and regulations that are in place. We cannot govern by ambush.”

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