CO Zoning Tyrants Go To War Against A Christian-Owned Bakery– thefederalist.com
A cherished French bakery in Jefferson County, Colorado, is facing potential closure because of the county’s harsh enforcement of exclusionary zoning regulations. This situation underscores how overly restrictive regulations create unnecessary hurdles that stifle entrepreneurship, especially when the local economy is struggling.
Lookout Mountain, Colorado, is celebrated for its breathtaking views, luxurious homes, and as the final resting place of Buffalo Bill. Just 12 miles from downtown Denver, it has become a must-visit destination for hikers, mountain bikers, and tourists from all over the globe.
This charming mountain community has long grappled with one significant drawback: the lack of a quality café. For many years, residents and visitors have had to travel to the nearby city of Golden for a decent cup of coffee or tasty pastries. So both locals and tourists were thrilled when a French bakery, Et Voilà!, opened less than half a mile from Buffalo Bill’s Museum and Grave.
Et Voilà! — meaning “Here you go” in French — is run by a passionate trio of French immigrants: husband-and-wife team Eric and Rachel Dufour, along with Rachel’s sister, Ruth. After leaving a successful career as an economist, Ruth pursued her passion for baking at renowned chef Olivier Bajard’s pastry school. The Dufours want to share their love for authentic French cuisine with the Lookout Mountain community, creating a welcoming space for locals and visitors. They also count on the bakery’s financial success to support their nonprofit, Serving Alongside Ministry (SAM), which provides counseling services for Christian organizations and leaders globally.
