I understand what you're saying, and it's all perfectly logical. 

I'm a third generation Golden native, and it's just sad to see it turn into a mini Boulder. The traffic in, and around town has become horrendous. It's a bit ridiculous to have it take, a half hour to drive my mother through town if she has appointments late in the afternoon. Golden is no longer a place where life long elderly residents, can easily get around. 

People moved and settled there because of the foothills, and the views. There used to be a growth cap, including how high people could build. It seems to me the "green residents" as you call them consider no one other than themselves. It's just an opinion. 

After my mother is gone, we'll sell her home for a very handsome profit, and leave the area. At least she has a view of Lookout that won't be destroyed. The only reason I'll be back, will be to have my ashes placed in the family plot.  

Some of us don't like living on top of others. Peace, and best wishes.