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Volunteers reporting on community issues in Monument, Palmer Lake, and the surrounding Tri-Lakes area

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Laura Lucero

Lewis-Palmer D38 Board of Education, Jan. 21 – Superintendent resigns; Grace Best School to be demolished

By Jackie Burhans

At its Jan. 21 meeting, the Lewis-Palmer D38 Board of Education accepted the superintendent’s resignation, voted to demolish Grace Best Education Center, and accepted a letter of intent from Tri-Lakes Cares (TLC) to purchase land from the district. The board also recognized two students and a community partner. The district’s principals recognized the board.

Superintendent resigns

Board Treasurer Ron Schwarz, saying he intended to vote yes, asked that the consent item agenda relating to Superintendent Stacie Datteri’s resignation be pulled out for discussion. He commented that Datteri did the consummately professional thing upon reaching an impasse and put the students first. Board President Tiffiney Upchurch said she was grateful for Datteri’s contributions and that the next step would be discussed at the February work session. She noted that some working relationships had not developed as hoped.

The board voted unanimously to accept Datteri’s resignation. Her resignation letter and separation agreement were posted in Boarddocs here: https://bit.ly/d38-supt-resign. According to the agreement, Datteri will receive a severance payment of $225,000, equal to one year’s salary.

Photo Caption: Dr. Stacie Datteri

Grace Best decision

Chief Business Officer Brett Ridgway and Director of Planning, Facilities and Grounds Melissa Andrews presented the agenda item regarding the future of Grace Best Education Center (GBEC). They noted that the same presentation was discussed at a good community Engage and Elevate meeting on Jan. 16.

Ridgway clarified that the goal is to upgrade from the current physical situation while maintaining continuity for the Home School Enrichment Academy (HSEA) and Transitions programs. He said the programs are important to the district, and the current space is not a viable long-term solution. Ridgway indicated that the district would identify temporary space for these programs by Feb. 28 and either identify or construct a permanent facility that meets or exceeds the needs determined by the program sponsors in the 2026-27 fiscal year.

GBEC has a long history, as shown in the presentation on Boarddocs at https://bit.ly/gbec-final-summary. Parts of the building date back to 1957 and newer portions were added in 1979 and 1988. It has served as a high school and elementary school and, most recently, as the home for HSEA and Transitions, as well as for the Bearbotics program, the Silver Key Tri-Lakes Senior Center, and community events. Several community meetings and teams have discussed the future of GBEC, including, in 2021, a discussion of converting it to an innovation center.

The age and condition of the building, updated code requirements, and a lack of funding have stymied efforts to determine a solution. Recent legislation has freed up reserves on a one-time basis, and a Career and Innovation Center (CIC) is being created by remodeling a nearby facility.

During the Oct. 1 work session, the board discussed GBEC, noting that the Monument Fire Department’s annual inspection found the building unsuitable for students or programs and required the district to come up with a plan within a year to address concerns.

The presentation shown at both the community meeting and the board meeting presents five options along with associated costs:

  1. Remediation of Critical Findings $18.22 million
  2. Raze and Rebuild $46.25 million
  3. Demolish only $1.30 million
  4. Keep 1988 addition only $11.22 million
  5. Do nothing $250,000 per year

These options included information on the funding sources that were or might be available and the impact on the programs currently housed at GBEC.

The board unanimously voted to demolish GBEC and communicate to the community plans for housing HSEA and Transitions in the 2025-26 school year and beyond. The board expressed that this was a tough decision that would not make everyone happy, but it is the best decision and helps to avoid an emergency such as that seen at Jenkins Middle School in District 11.

See the GBEC presentation at: https://bit.ly/gbec-final-summary. Search for “Grace Best” on the ocn.me webpage for previous articles about GBEC.

Above: Grace Best Elementary School in downtown Monument as it appeared in 2010 prior to its closure. Photo by Mike Wicklund.

Letter of intent to purchase district land

Ridgway noted that when he first came to the district, the issue of what to do with the land it owns in downtown Monument, which he called the administrative complex, was raised. His first observation was that the district needed to work toward subdividing the complex, and they worked with surveyors to do so last June. The district subsequently conversed with TLC, which expressed the need for a parcel that was different from its current location. Ridgway said he now had a formal letter of intent (LOI) from TLC to purchase about three acres of land along Beacon Lite Road just south of Bethesda Senior Center.

TLC board President Rich Schur thanked the board and said that, with 8,000 square feet, TLC has staff in closets and food stored in hallways, and it is out of space. Research shows that TLC needs two or three acres, he said, with geographic limitations to serve people without good transportation. The conversation, he said, is to partner with the district to ensure this is a community asset, with TLC sharing space with other organizations, including the district and Silver Key. He said there are many details to work out, but the entire community could benefit.

Ridgway said the district would work with TLC over the next 90 days to pursue steps to formalize the property’s definition and then bring a contract back to the board. The board unanimously voted that D38 accept the LOI, proceed with actions, and bring back a contract when conditions are met.

Recognitions

The board recognized two students, Lewis-Palmer High School (LPHS) junior Nicholas Berthelotte and Palmer Ridge High School (PRHS) junior Rhett Jones, for achieving perfect scores of 1520 on the Preliminary Scholastic Aptitude and National Merit Scholarship Qualifying Test (PSAT/NMSQT). Principals Bridget O’Connor and Dr. Adam Frank spoke about the students. Jones was unable to attend due to a college visit. The board presented a commemorative plaque and took photos.

Above: The D38 board recognized two students who achieved perfect scores of 1520 on the PSAT/NSMQT: Nicholas Berthelotte of Lewis-Pamer High School and Rhett Jones of Palmer Ridge High School. Principals from their respective schools, Bridget O’Connor and Dr. Adam Frank, spoke highly of the students as being well-rounded and humble. Jones was unable to attend the board meeting due to a college visit but Frank accepted the plaque on his behalf. From left are board President Tiffiney Upchurch, board member Todd Brown, Nicholas’ father Joseph Berthelotte, Berthelotte, O’Connor, Nicholas’ mom Marcella Berthelotte, and board members Kris Norris, Dr. Patti Shank, and Ron Schwarz. Photo by Jackie Burhans.

The board also recognized TLC as a long-standing community partner. For many years, TLC has supported D38 students and families through its mission to “provide a compassionate community safety net to ensure everyone has the support they need.” Communications Director Amy Matisek noted that TLC had helped supplement food the district had gathered for a family.

Executive Director Haley Chapin said it was an honor to partner with and help the community, noting that TLC provides school snack packs and that D38 students come to TLC for various projects. Schur thanked the board for its recognition.

Above: The D38 board recognized Tri-Lakes Cares (TLC) as a long-time community partner in the district for supporting and partnering with D38 students and families. From left are board member Dr. Patti Shank, President Tiffiney Upchurch, Todd Brown, Tri-Lakes Cares Executive Director Haley Chapin, board member Kris Norris, Tri-Lakes Cares board President Rich Schur, and board Treasurer Ron Schwarz. Photo by Jackie Burhans.Patti Shank, and Ron Schwarz. Photo by Jackie Burhans.

Matisek, noting that it was National School Board Recognition Month, thanked the board for all it does and introduced two school principals to share their remarks and words of gratitude. Davonne Johnson, principal at Lewis-Palmer Elementary School (LPES), thanked the board on behalf of the whole elementary team. Referring to the LPES theme of “Keeping on Track,” she welcomed them aboard.

O’Connor represented the secondary school team, which focuses on families, noting its gift of The Giving Tree by Shel Silverstein. She said this book means different things to different people, with the tree giving unselfishly to a boy who is not always grateful. She said that the board is a role model for students by volunteering at a high level and giving in ways that don’t always get recognition.

Above: At the Jan. 31 D38 board meeting, school principals expressed their gratitude to the board in honor of School Board Recognition Month. Lewis-Palmer Elementary School Principal Davonne Johnson and Lewis-Palmer High School Principal Bridget O’Connor expressed the appreciation of the elementary and secondary principals, respectively. Principals from across the district gathered for a group photo with the board. From left in the back are board member Todd Brown, Palmer Lake Elementary School Principal Kim Briding, Johnson, O’Connor, Ray Kilmer Elementary School Principal Greg Saunders, and Bear Creek Elementary School Principal Donnell Potter. From left in the front are board members Kris Norris, Dr. Patti Shank, President Tiffiney Upchurch, Treasurer Ron Schwarz, Prairie Winds Elementary School Principal Rachel Sellers, and Palmer Ridge High School Principal Dr. Adam Frank. Photo by Jackie Burhans.

Highlights

Board meeting highlights include:

  • During public comments, Jason DeaBueno, CEO and president of Silver Key, gave its organizational history, noting that two agenda items would impact it. He said the Tri-Lakes Senior Services’ space in Grace Best allowed it to build intergenerational connections with students. He noted that Silver Key had been in talks with TLC about solving the needs of both organizations utilizing the three acres of land. Silver Key is committed and has developed reserves to invest in this community, he said, and wants to work with TLC and supports the purchase of the land.
  • Melinda Reichal commented that she thought Datteri could have worked out if given time and expressed concerns that any future superintendent may hesitate to come to the district.
  • LPHS students Aaron Weeks and Anna Hacker presented on Student Council activities and goals.
  • Matisek presented an update on strategic priority six: Relationships and Communication, reviewing outcome measures and action steps to help increase the net promoter score for district staff and parents and increase community partnerships. Action steps include launching the BOE Recap, LP Leadership Link, and Building Connections newsletters, integrating staff spotlights and kudos and mentioning the Elevate 38 awards into e-newsletters. D38 is collaborating with schools to define and populate an initial database of partnerships.
  • Assistant Superintendent Amber Whetstine and Director of Innovative Programs Jessica McAllister presented an update on the CIC. McAllister showed an updated timeline and a fly-through simulation of what the building would look like once completed. She also reported on marketing efforts, student interest, and progress on partnerships. Weeks expressed excitement for the CIC, saying that graduating robotics students expressed greater interest in returning to mentor in the new building.
  • The board unanimously approved changes to instruction policies, including curriculum development, home schooling, primary education, academic achievement, early literacy and reading comprehension, and flag displays. The changes align with the Colorado Association of School Boards recommendations and do not significantly impact district operations.
  • The board unanimously approved repealing policies on school volunteers and early graduation, noting that the policies are not required and are covered in handbooks.
  • The board unanimously approved a new policy IHDB Equivalence of Service as required by federal law.
  • The board unanimously approved the amended budget for 2024-25 as presented by Ridgway. Ridgway said this lets the district account for the final per-pupil revenue and student count. The amended budget details the CIC work.

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The Lewis-Palmer D 38 Board of Education generally meets at 6 p.m. on the third Monday of the month in the district’s learning center, 146 Jefferson St., Monument. The next meeting will be held on Feb. 17. For information, contact vwood@lewispalmer.org

Jackie Burhans can be reached at jackieburhans@ocn.me.

Other D38 Board of Education articles

Palmer Lake Board of Trustees, Jan. 9 and 23 – Lakeview Heights development raises safety concerns

By James Howald and Jackie Burhans

At its first meeting in January, the Palmer Lake Board of Trustees held a public hearing on an application for a master plan re-subdivision of Lakeview Heights, a proposed development that would consist of 100 lots just east of the New Santa Fe Regional Trail and southeast of Star View Circle. The hearing was followed by a vote to continue the matter and allow Eric Sepp, the developer, to address issues raised during the hearing.

At the second meeting, Reid Wiecks, chair of the Parks and Trails Commission, presented the vision he and the commission have developed for the future of the Elephant Rock property. Glen Smith, the new police chief, and Judge John Ciccolella were sworn in.

In her administrative report, Town Administrator Dawn Collins reported on her efforts to fill open positions on the town staff.

Both meetings included executive sessions.

Fire safety the focus of subdivision hearing

Mayor Glant Havenar opened the hearing on the Lakeview Heights development with a plea for respectful dialogue.

Town Administrator Dawn Collins reviewed the complicated history of the subdivision request, which was originally submitted in 2023. The plan before the board was a re-subdivision of a previously approved, platted subdivision that was never completed by the developer, Collins said. She pointed out the building code had changed significantly since the original approval and the proposed lot size had changed from 5,000 square feet to 10,000 square feet. She said the developer does not own all the lots in the subdivision, and the plans previously submitted had two access points whereas the current plan had only one.

Trustee Amy Hutson owns an adjacent property and recused herself from voting on the proposed development. Town Attorney Scott Krob said Hutson could comment on the proposal as a private citizen.

Andrea Barlow, of N.E.S. Inc., a planning and landscaping architecture company, presented the project to the board on behalf of Sepp. She addressed issues that had been raised by the Planning Commission, including a requirement that existing homes within the development’s boundaries install sprinklers. She said Sepp would resubmit a traffic study. Barlow said a second access point to the development was not possible since Ben Lomand Mountain was to the north, the railroad tracks were to the south and a privately owned nature conservancy was to the east. She said the property was not covered with trees and was a moderate wildfire risk.

Barlow argued that, although the fire code requires two access points for emergency vehicles when there are more than 30 dwellings on a single access road, there were exceptions that applied in the case of Lakeview Heights. Because the planned roads are looped, the single access road constraint does not apply, she said. If necessary, residents could evacuate via Lake Avenue while emergency vehicles could get to the property by using the New Santa Fe Regional Trail. Barlow said El Paso County Parks and Recreation had verified that the trail could be used by emergency vehicles.

Barlow ended her presentation by arguing that the Master Plan for the Lakeview Heights development meets the Palmer Lake town code, the proposed lot configuration meets the R-10,000 zoning requirements, the proposal complies with state, county and town regulations, and it is consistent with the Palmer Lake Community Master Plan.

Following Barlow’s presentation, Trustee Shana Ball asked if any tests had been done to determine if the town’s fire engine could navigate the trail. Fire Chief John Vincent said there had been no test but the Fire Department’s vehicles had used the trail. Trustee Tim Caves asked if Barlow had discussed with the railroad whether emergency vehicles could cross their tracks. Barlow said she believed, based on previous discussions with the railroad, that it would not allow access via its tracks.

Havenar and Krob discussed the language in the fire code that requires, if more than 30 homes on a single access road are present, all homes must have sprinkler systems installed. Havenar pointed out that 50 homes within the boundaries of the development have already been built without sprinklers. Krob said the town could not require those homes to be retrofitted with sprinklers and therefore the requirement for all homes to have sprinklers could not be met.

Mark Morton, of GMS Inc., the town’s consulting engineers, argued that the roads platted for the development were looped, and so did not meet the legal definition of a dead-end street. The limitations imposed by a single point of access did not apply, he said.

Trustee Atis Jurka asked Barlow if the developer would dedicate 20% of the land for use as trails. Barlow said that obligation would be met with a financial donation in lieu of land.

After the discussion by the trustees, residents made comments. None was in favor of the proposed development.

  • Roger Moseley said Lake Avenue was in fact a dead end. He argued that sprinkler systems would be ineffective in the case of a wind-driven fire.
  • Martha Brodzik discussed the Planning Commission’s assessment of the project.
  • Mike Beeson questioned the validity of the memo Vincent had written concerning the project, which he felt downplayed the fire danger.
  • Jennifer Rausch also claimed Vincent had changed his positions about the fire danger and asked for an independent analysis and an evacuation plan. She argued a second access point was needed.
  • Pete Tomitsch said a fire involving 150 homes with a single point of access could not be fought; it would only be possible to evacuate residents. He argued the developer should pay for a second access point, whatever the cost.
  • Jeff Hatcher questioned the availability of an adequate water supply, especially if the Buc-ee’s travel center moves forward.
  • Kurt Stevens felt the development had not been properly analyzed and the developer should go back to the Planning Commission.
  • Kip Murray threatened to sue the developer because the evacuation plan was a threat to his family.
  • Angela Dawson felt the development would increase the traffic on Oakdale Drive and asked the developer to put in curbs and gutters.
  • Reid Wiecks said the development did not meet the requirements of the Community Wildfire Plan, which has been in place for 16 years. He argued the development should have at least four access points.
  • Amy Hutson said the subdivision would prevent her from accessing her property.
  • Bill Dandino said he had difficulty finding homeowner’s insurance for his property on Oakdale Drive and a development with one access point would spook insurance companies.
  • Phil Tedeschi, another Oakdale Drive resident, recalled fires that had been started by sparks from a train and by cars. He pointed out that the train would block emergency services.
  • Marilyn Stuhr said she owned two lots in the area and she wanted assurance that Sepp would not take over her property.
  • Patti Brooks asked the board to require a second access point. She questioned whether the Planning Commission had approved the development.
  • Trina Shook commented on the relationship between the development and the town’s Sanitation District.

Barlow responded to the comments from residents. She said Sepp was trying to find a second point of access in addition to the Santa Fe Trail and reiterated that Sepp had the permission of El Paso County Parks and Recreation to use the trail, which is built to a robust standard, in an emergency. Lakeview Heights will be a FireWise community, she said, with little vegetation, to minimize the risk of fire. The project must go through the subdivision plat process, a more detailed process where it will have to prove it has the necessary water and sewer taps. She asked the board to approve the current request so the project can go on to the next more detailed stage. She pointed out a previous version of the plan had 280 lots; that number was reduced to 100 in the current version. The roads are already platted. Curbs and gutters would be provided on Oakdale Drive, she said.

Havenar closed the hearing and the board took up Resolution 8-2025, which would approve the Lakeview Heights masterplan, with a number of conditions concerning ownership of lots, rights of way, consent of the owners of lots not included in the application, dedication of land for trails or payment in lieu of land, stormwater drainage and other issues. Following discussion by the trustees, Havenar made a motion requiring Sepp to return to a future meeting with a more detailed evacuation plan, a memo of understanding with El Paso County and answers to issues about the ownership of lots and about the requirement for all homes to have sprinkler systems. The motion passed, with Trustees Ball, Caves, Hutson Jurka and Dennis Stern voting yes, along with Havenar. Trustee Kevin Dreher voted no.

Above: At the Jan. 9 Palmer Lake Board of Trustees meeting, the board held a public hearing on the proposed re-subdivision and Lakeview Heights development east of the New Santa Fe Trail and southeast of Star Circle Drive. Map courtesy of the Town of Palmer Lake.

Elephant Rock property to be “passive park”

Wiecks presented an Open Space Master Plan for the Elephant Rock property. Wiecks said he and the other members of the Parks and Trails Commission had defined five use and maintenance zones and had applied them to the 26-acre property:

  • Zone 0 will be closed to the public and will serve as a wildlife refuge. Two thin strips west of Monument Creek are designated Zone 0.
  • Zone 1 will allow public use limited to designated trails and benches. A large portion of the property just west of Highway 105 falls into this usage zone, as well as the northwestern and southern corners of the property.
  • Zone 2 will allow moderate public use for off-trail access. The portion of the property immediately to the west of the lodge is designated Zone 2.
  • Zone 3 will be a passive recreation area, moderately to actively used by the public, with picnic areas, a pavilion, benches and trails. An area east of Monument Creek is categorized as Zone 3.
  • Zone 4, an area on the south side of the property, is reserved for a sports field

The portions of the property reserved for a future Public Safety building and the Eco Spa to be developed by the Willens were not included in the plan developed by the Parks and Trail Commission, Wiecks said.

Parking at the property will consist of four small “satellite” parking lots scattered around the middle of the property and one large lot dedicated to the Public Safety building, which is planned to be just west of the main entrance to the property from Highway 105.

Wiecks said he wanted the Elephant Rock property to be a “passive park and open space environment with no large-scale events and no new building construction.” He said the Parks and Trail Commission wanted to see the property designated as a park so that its maintenance could be funded by the Conservation Trust Fund money the town receives annually from the state lottery.

Collins asked the board to give Wiecks direction about how to proceed with his vison for the Elephant Rock property. Ball asked Wiecks to make sure signs were put in place asking visitors not to feed the livestock on adjacent properties. Havenar said she agreed that the land should be designated as a park to prevent future development.

Collins warned the board about taking a piecemeal approach to transitioning the land to park status. She reminded the board that the property was not yet open to the public.

Havenar suggested a workshop to continue the discussion.

Above: Reid Wiecks, chairman of the Palmer Lake Parks and Trails Commission, presented a proposal to the Board of Trustees at its Jan. 23 meeting to divide a large portion of the Elephant Rock property into use zones. He proposed that those zones be declared a passive park so that Conservation Trust Funds from the state lottery could be used for its management. Map courtesy of the Town of Palmer Lake.

Police chief and judge sworn in

At the Jan. 23 meeting, Collins administered the oath of office to newly hired Police Chief Glen Smith and Judge John Ciccolella. Ciccolella has served as Palmer Lake municipal judge for 30 years.

Collins said a feasibility study of the proposed Public Safety building at the Elephant Rock property had been funded by a grant from the Colorado Department of Local Affairs.

Havenar acknowledged Ms. Olivia Hayes for having been chosen Miss Palmer Lake. Hayes will compete in the Miss Colorado pageant later this year.

Above: Town Administrator Dawn Collins administers the oath of office to newly hired Police Chief Glen Smith. From left are Collins and Smith. Photo by James Howald.
Above: At the Jan. 23 Palmer Lake Board of Trustees meeting, municipal Judge John Cicolella presented on the state of the Municipal Court, which is the lowest court level. He explained his practices and procedures and discussed some of his cases and other municipalities he has served. He noted that it was a requirement that he be sworn in. Town Administrator Dawn Collins administered the oath of office. From left are Collins and Cicolella. Photo by Jackie Burhans.
Above: Mayor Glant Havenar congratulates Miss Palmer Lake Olivia Hayes, who will be competing for Miss Colorado. From left are Havenar and Hayes. Photo by James Howald.

Staff positions filled

Collins told the board Kathy Neal had been hired as an accounting clerk and Erica Romero as a deputy town clerk. A water operator position is open and is being advertised, she said.

Executive sessions

The Jan. 9 meeting included an executive session to determine negotiating positions regarding the lease for the EcoSpa at the Elephant Rock property and to receive legal advice regarding a complaint against the town filed with the Colorado Attorney General and concerns that have been raised about the board’s eligibility for annexation decisions.

The Jan. 23 meeting included an executive session to confer with the town attorney about the EcoSpa lease, the board’s eligibility for annexation decisions and a lawsuit against the town filed by Integrity Matters.

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The next regular board meeting is scheduled for Feb. 13. Meetings are held at the Town Hall. See the town’s website at www.townofpalmerlake.com to confirm times and dates of board meetings and workshops. Meetings are typically held on the second and fourth Thursdays of the month at the Town Hall. Information: 719-481-2953.

James Howald can be reached at jameshowald@ocn.me. Jackie Burhans can be reached at jackieburhans@ocn.me.

Other Palmer Lake Board of Trustees articles

Monument Fire District, Jan. 22 – Wildfire Mitigation remains top priority

By Natalie Barszcz

At the Tri-Lakes Monument Fire Protection District dba Monument Fire District (MFD) meeting on Jan. 22, the board heard about the district’s desire to step up mitigation efforts in light of the recent fires in Southern California, efforts to stabilize revenue for special fire districts, accepted a petition of inclusion, and set a public hearing for a 106.6-acre parcel of land in the eastern portion of the district. The board approved the 2025 board director election, and received multiple updates, to include staffing and apparatus.

Director Randall Estes and Mark Gunderman were excused.

Mitigation effort requested

Fire Chief Andy Kovacs said after witnessing the multiple fires over the past several weeks in Southern California, and having worked in that region for almost 30 years and knowing some of the people that responded to those incidents, it gave him pause for thought on what the district has accomplished over the past four years, but there is a lot more work to be done.

Division Chief of Community Risk Reduction Jonathan Bradley has received many phone calls and emails from concerned citizens trying to find ways to get actively involved in mitigation efforts. It prompted an open letter to the community via this publication and although this community may never see fires of the magnitude seen in California, locally it has happened before with the Waldo Canyon Fire, the Black Forest Fire, and the Marshall Fire in Boulder County, said Kovacs. See letter on page < 16 >.

Bradley said a new Wildland-Urban Interface (WUI) code is expected to become law later this year, based on the International Code Council, the WUI code, along with several others, and using insurance codes for reference. The law will mandate the use of limited combustible and non-combustible building materials and meet a vegetation management plan for all new construction, remodels, and refits over a set percentage located in the WUI. There will also be some changes regarding building code/fire marshal officials that could create another layer for the district, said Bradley. See htps://www.dfpc.colorado.gov and NEPCO article on page < 15 > and letter on page < 16 >.

Revenue stabilization

Kovacs said he is a member of one of three committees the State of Colorado identified to discuss revenue stabilization for special districts and special fire districts. Gov. Jared Polis indicated in a recent visit to southern Colorado that public safety is a priority. The district has sent a letter to the legislative aides expressing the district’s concerns about property taxes and how that impacts special districts. The Legislature is back in session, and 10 bills regarding fire districts will be considered. The state fire chiefs were set to attend on Jan. 23. The intent is to work with the authors of the legislation “so we are off to the races again with all of that” with the goal of adopting the state WUI code, and the single staircase for large buildings, five floors or less, that is being driven by developers in large municipalities to maintain a smaller footprint and allow infill within cities for affordable housing. It would have less concern for small municipalities such as MFD, but it is a step backward from a life safety perspective, said Kovacs.

Petition for inclusion

The board accepted a petition for inclusion and set a public hearing for Feb. 26 at 4:30 p.m. for 106.6 acres of real property off Gambler Place, Colorado Springs, owned by Thaddeus J. Jarosz to be developed into 10 single-family dwellings that will be included into the district for services.

2025 board director election

Kovacs said the district will hold an election on May 6 to fill the Board of Directors positions currently held by Duane Garrett, Mark Gunderman, John Hildebrandt, Tom Kelly, and Mike Smaldino. Three seats will be for four-year terms and two seats will be for two-year terms. Any eligible elector of the special district who desires to be a candidate for the office of special district director must file a self-nomination and acceptance form with the designated election official at 16055 Old Forest Point, Suite 102, Monument, no later than close of business on Feb. 28. The district does not maintain term limitations for board directors, and if the district does not receive additional electors the election will be cancelled.

In a 5-0 vote, the board approved Resolution 2025-02 calling for the 2025 regular district election and appointing Kovacs as the designated election official, setting the precinct and polling place location, delegating to the designated election official the authority to appoint judges of the election, and setting the compensation of the appointed election judges at $14.42 per hour.

The board also approved the electronic posting of notices on the district website.

Kovacs said the district is no longer legally required to post notices in hard copy at the fire stations, but besides the district website, meeting information will continue to be posted in both places.

Staffing update

Kovacs said that Battalion Chief Micah Coyle had returned to his previous role as shift battalion chief, and he thanked Coyle for his one-year administrative duty as executive battalion chief. Battalion Chief Janaka Branden has replaced Coyle as the executive battalion chief for 2025.

Paramedic Stephanie Botkin is attending the Pikes Peak State College Recruit Fire Academy with two recently hired paramedics. Firefighter/Paramedic Rachael Peters accepted the EMS coordinator position, while Botkin attends the academy through May. Two paramedics accepted jobs in Adams County and South Metro Fire Rescue, to be geographically closer to home. Paramedics Andrew Dore and Taylor Lindsey were sworn in at a ceremony after the meeting, said Kovacs.

Apparatus update

Kovacs said the district had taken possession of a new ladder truck and the staff training is complete. The process of outfitting the apparatus has begun. The district anticipates receiving two engines (approved about two years ago) in early 2026, a year early than expected. The district expects to receive two ambulances in late 2025, has a Type 6 chassis ready for assembly at Boise Mobile Equipment, Boise, Idaho and is expected by mid-year. A water tender purchase will be included in the 2026 budget, said Kovacs.

The chief’s report and the November and December financial reports can be found at www.monumentfire.org.

The meeting adjourned at 5:42 p.m.

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Meetings are usually held on the fourth Wednesday every month. The next regular meeting is scheduled for Feb. 26 at 4:30 p.m. at Station 1, 18650 Highway 105. For Microsoft Teams virtual joining instructions, agendas, minutes, and updates, visit www.monumentfire.org or contact Director of Administration Jennifer Martin at 719-484-9011.

Natalie Barszcz can be reached at nataliebarszcz@ocn.me.

Other Monument Fire District articles

Monument Academy School Board, Jan. 6 and 9 – Board hears bond refinancing, action plan

By Jackie Burhans

Monument Academy (MA) held a work session on Jan. 6 where it discussed bond refinancing, the proposed high-performance program, and board bylaws. At the Monument Academy (MA) regular meeting on Jan. 9, the board voted on the High-Performance Program (HPP) and heard from the executive director about his action plan.

Bond refinancing discussed

At its Jan. 6 work session, Interim Chief Financial Officer Glenn Gustafson reminded the board that MA has a $27.7 million balloon payment or “bullet” coming due in April 2026 for its 2019 bonds for the East Campus and that it would have to refinance that debt. Although he was initially very critical of this financing, bond underwriters told him it was a very common structure because entities are reluctant to issue 30-year bonds when unsure if a school will succeed. He said this financing structure was an industry norm, although no one anticipated that the market would go from low to high interest as it has.

Gustafson noted that the 2014 bonds cover the West Campus while the 2019 bonds cover the East Campus, and MA is required to account for them separately. Each school is responsible for its own bond. He noted that MA has a couple of alternatives.

MA could pay off the 2019 bond with a longer-term issue of up to 40 years to lower debt service. However, this would not yield much in the way of construction funds. Gustafson noted that MA’s West Campus has a lot of equity. MA could cross-collateralize and use that equity to subsidize the East Campus. MA would not have two sets of bond compliance rules, as only one bond issue would exist. He liked that idea because it fits the “One MA” notion.

MA asked the firm that initially built the East Campus to cost out a new academic wing, athletic facilities, fine arts facilities, and additional cafeteria space. Gustafson noted that the total cost would depend on what MA picked but that it could not afford everything. He said that once MA issued bonds it was locked in for 10 years and could not go back to the market for more money.

Timing-wise, Gustafson said MA was in a high-stakes game of poker and needed to hit its bond ratios as of June 30. He said MA had always had the required 45 days of cash on hand but had never hit its debt service ratios based on the East Campus’s net income. He said that the finance team has been targeting these two ratios and was on track, but MA can’t spend more money. He said it is a pass/fail test, and the budget is built to achieve that depending on the amount of fundraising from the gala and other efforts. The better MA’s financial position, the lower the interest rates would be, he said. Although the state has a moral obligation program that would guarantee the loan, MA’s finances would have to be much better to qualify.

Gustafson referred to the packet that analyzed eight scenarios with various interest rates and terms, the impact on debt service, and the number of students MA would need to add to pay the debt service. He noted that the board would have the moral obligation to pay the bondholders whether or not they have the students, even if they have to cut staff or pay. If MA were to default on the bond, he said, they would never again be able to issue bonds. He noted that MA needs 12 more kids at the West Campus, which should be no problem. He said that, depending on the amortization schedule, MA might be able to raise $25 million for construction, but its capital plan is $32 million, so it would need to come up with grants or fundraising. If MA could raise $25 million, it would need to add 213 kids to East Campus. He said the new facilities could attract kids, and they would have to do a lot of marketing. The proposed HPP could help to add kids, but they would be counted as 0.7 full-time equivalent students.

Gustafson said MA had about 13 months to pull the trigger. Interest rates should fall in the spring, and the fall audit would show whether MA had met its bond ratios. This timing would allow MA to issue bonds and begin construction to open the new facilities in August 2027, he said.

High-Performance Plan revisited

At the Jan. 6 work session, the board returned to the proposed HPP they had discussed in November. See https://wp.ocn.me/v24n12d38ma. The HPP is a program to educate students developing athletic and creative skills at the highest levels who need more flexibility.

Vladislav “Izzy” Izboinikov, the program’s founder, returned to provide additional information and answer questions. He felt the timing was perfect and could generate numbers to offset the additional students needed. He offered to commit to between 50 and 75 kids, depending on how committed MA is to making the program grow.

The board discussed the size of the pool of students who might be interested, the concern that this might distract from MA’s efforts to return to its charter, and the impact on teachers, among other concerns. Izboinikov said the pool was smaller than Denver but not too small. Executive Director Collin Vinchattle noted that his action plan focused on the academic vision and the curriculum, which would be the same for HPP with some added flexibility. Izboinikov said there would be a learning curve, but he didn’t see a huge spike in what teachers must do. Vinchattle said MA had foundational pieces in place and that teachers already work with the Canvas system that HPP uses and already are flexible with students who take long vacations or miss classes for athletics.

After additional discussion about whether equipment would be needed, getting feedback from teachers, the need for more portables, and adjusting the proposed agreement, the board directed Vinchattle to bring the topic back to the regular meeting with the requested information.

At the Jan. 9 regular meeting, Vinchattle said he was in favor of HPP, feeling that it would be beneficial to MA and aligned with its vision by providing a high level of education to marginalized students who, because they were pursuing their skill in one area were being limited in their education. He reported that he spoke to high school teachers who said it was work they do for all students who miss class and thought it was a neat program. They did express that science labs might take more work, as would Socratic discussions, but teachers felt they could make it work. Vinchattle noted that the program would have a liaison, and that MA would dictate how the program was structured. He said that MA would create an oversight committee and asked the board to provide direction to proceed with building the program model.

The board unanimously voted to approve the HPP direction and creation of an oversight committee.

Action plan

At its Jan. 6 work session and again on Jan. 9, the board heard from Vinchattle about his action plan to address issues raised by MA’s organizational audit. See previous articles at https://wp.ocn.me/v24n11d38ma/ and https://wp.ocn.me/v24n12d38ma.

Board President Ryan Graham said this had been in the works and had been created by Vinchattle and the leadership forum. Vinchattle noted that the leadership forum came together after the organization audit performed by Lis Richard and created an action plan with action steps. Graham said the board had discussed using this as the strategic plan and asked if it would be uploaded to the website. Vinchattle said it would be uploaded to the board page.

The board unanimously voted to approve the action plan as presented to be the strategic plan.

The strategic plan and action steps can be found https://www.monumentacademy.net/school-board/.

Highlights

Board meeting highlights include:

  • Board member Jilinda Dygert reported that the School Accountability and Advisory Committee for East Campus met on Dec. 16 and discussed the parent survey, which closed on Jan. 21. The next meeting on Feb. 3 will focus on survey results and teacher evaluations. Dr. Michael Brom, Lewis-Palmer District 38 Coordinator of Assessment and Accountability, presented on Jan. 28 about the Colorado Measures of Academic Success (CMAS).
  • The board unanimously approved minor edits to its bylaws to update the title of chief operating officer to executive director and to add the Simbli platform where MA hosts its board documents as a location for record storage. MA board documents can be found at https://bit.ly/ma-boarddocs.
  • The board unanimously voted to change the number of voting directors from 7 to 5, which means the board election will have one position to fill.
  • The board modified its calendar to remove a proposed retreat on Jan. 17 and set 6 p.m. as its start time for the work session on Feb. 27 at the East Campus. Board Vice President Lindsay Clinton said she would start pushing out information about eligibility requirement and the application deadline.

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The MA School Board meets at 6:30 p.m. on the second Thursday of each month. The next regular board meeting will be on Thursday, Feb. 13, at 6:30 p.m. at the East Campus. For more information, visit https://bit.ly/ma-boe;; for the agenda and packet, see https://bit.ly/ma-boarddocs.

Jackie Burhans can be reached at jackieburhans@ocn.me.

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Monument Town Council, Jan. 6 and 21 – Monument enters new year with Legislative Platform, Buc-ee’s opposition

By Chris Jeub

Community members urged the Monument Town Council (MTC) to oppose Palmer Lake’s proposed annexation for a Buc-ee’s development during heated public comments at January’s meetings. Meanwhile, the council reviewed updates on the Falcon Commerce Center and approved new Planning Commission appointments, a Vision Statement for the town, and resolutions related to infrastructure improvements.

Oaths of office

At the first MTC meeting of 2025, the swearing-in of returning officials highlighted the evening. Incumbents Marco Fiorito, Kenneth Kimple, Laura Kronick, and Jim Romanello renewed their oaths of office. The council also reaffirmed Steve King as mayor pro tem, continuing his leadership alongside Mayor Mitch LaKind. The council’s current governance remains unchanged, with LaKind, elected in 2022, continuing as mayor, and councilmembers Sana Abbott, King, and the re-elected members representing their respective districts and at-large positions.

Later the council gave attention to appointing members of the Planning Commission. Resolution No. 05-2025 was unanimously approved, officially naming Martin Trujillo, Daniel Ours, Ray Egley, and Donna Hatch to the commission. Additionally, the Town of Monument announced two open alternate seats on the commission, inviting community members to apply and contribute to the town’s planning initiatives.

Legislative Platform

The town presented a new item called the “2025 Legislative Platform,” something Mayor LaKind said was never done before. The platform outlines the town’s priorities and advocacy positions for the upcoming year. It focuses on empowering local governance, protecting Monument’s autonomy, and advocating for the town’s interests at state and federal levels. Key priorities include transportation improvements, support for local law enforcement, maintaining municipal control over land-use decisions, and ensuring equitable access to resources.

The platform opposes unfunded mandates, burdensome regulations, and legislation that diminishes municipal authority, while promoting infrastructure upgrades, affordable housing initiatives, and cybersecurity advancements.

LaKind expressed reservations about the town becoming an internet service provider, citing examples like Fort Collins where similar ventures resulted in significant financial losses. He emphasized the importance of avoiding unnecessary risks to the town’s fiscal stability. Additionally, both the mayor and Abbott raised concerns about the inclusion of artificial intelligence in town operations, pointing to its lack of regulation and the potential challenges it could pose. The plan was presented in draft form by the town staff in the Jan. 6 meeting and ratified in the Jan. 21 meeting.

Buc-ee’s opposition seeks Monument support

At the Jan. 6 meeting, members of Integrity Matters, a local nonprofit, led an organized appeal urging the town to oppose Palmer Lake’s proposed annexation of land at the southwest corner of I-25 and County Line Road for a Buc-ee’s development. During public comment, Katherine Gayle, chief legal counsel for the group, emphasized their action against Palmer Lake, claiming that Buc-ee’s would harm local businesses, disrupt Monument’s small-town character, and drain critical resources like water. Citizens echoed these concerns, highlighting issues such as traffic congestion, light pollution, wildlife displacement, and potential declines in property value. Many in the packed room voiced similar fears about the annexation’s long-term impact on the community.

Not everyone in attendance opposed the development, however. One remote participant reminded the council of the “unintended consequences” of rejecting past annexation opportunities for the property. Noting prior protests against residential development ultimately left the landowner with limited options, leading to the current proposal with Palmer Lake. Monument now has less control over the outcome, she claimed.

In response to the public input, councilmembers expressed support for Integrity Matters and residents’ concerns. Councilmember Kenneth Kimple proposed drafting a letter of opposition, citing 88 emails he had received against the project. Mayor Pro Tem Steve King encouraged strong community turnout at future meetings to amplify opposition, while Councilmember Laura Kronick urged residents to continue voicing their concerns.

Higby Road

At the Jan. 6 meeting, James McGrady of the Triview Metropolitan District presented a detailed plan for the Higby Road Widening Project, which aims to address congestion and improve safety from Jackson Creek Parkway to Harness Road. The project, with an estimated cost of $12.6 million, will be executed in two phases: the first phase extending from Bowstring Road to Harness Road and the second phase from Jackson Creek Parkway to Bowstring. McGrady emphasized the need for the improvements, citing the growing traffic volumes from Lewis-Palmer High School and surrounding neighborhoods. Key elements include widening the road, constructing new roundabouts, adding sidewalks and multi-use paths, and improving ingress and egress in the event of emergencies.

McGrady highlighted the safety benefits of roundabouts, which reduce crash rates and improve traffic flow compared to traditional intersections. Additionally, the plan incorporates a multi-use path along the south side of Higby Road to support pedestrian and bicyclist access, with specific attention to student crossings near Lewis-Palmer High School. The project will include center medians, sidewalks, and bicycle lanes to accommodate multimodal transportation.

The project’s funding relies on a mix of general obligation bonds, developer contributions, and a portion of the district’s mill levy and sales tax revenue. McGrady explained that the road was previously mismanaged before its annexation by the Town of Monument, which initiated efforts to modernize the infrastructure. McGrady emphasized the importance of moving forward to support the growing needs of the community and enhance road safety for all users.

Town’s new Vision Statement approved

At the Jan. 6 meeting, a strategic planner presented a draft Vision Statement as part of the town’s 2026-28 Strategic Plan. The Vision Statement emphasizes Monument’s commitment to being a “safe, welcoming, and productive community” that empowers individuals and families to thrive while preserving the town’s small-town charm and natural beauty. It acknowledges Monument’s growth as a gateway to the Pikes Peak region and stresses a balance between responsible development and maintaining the community’s unique character. The Vision Statement also outlines key commitments, including fostering transparency in governance, delivering high-quality town services, protecting natural resources, and supporting thoughtfully planned growth.

A slide comparison of the Vision Statement revisions showcased minor adjustments to language, enhancing clarity and focus. LaKind expressed support for the edits, stating they better reflected the community’s values. Councilmembers Kimple, Abbott, and Kronick echoed his approval, highlighting the importance of preserving Monument’s small-town appeal while accommodating growth. The council unanimously approved the Vision Statement, setting the foundation for the Strategic Plan.

Situated at the gateway to the Pikes Peak region, the Town of Monument stands out as a friendly, close-knit community that offers both a sense of small town charm and access to the conveniences and amenities of modern living. In recent years, the popularity and opportunities available in this area of Colorado, including Monument, have resulted in significant growth and development. Amidst this change, the vision and commitment of the Town of Monument remains steady: To ensure a safe, welcoming and productive community that empowers individuals and families to prosper together and enjoy the quality lifestyle that they desire. Forecasting into the future, Monument will remain prepared and capable of balancing responsible growth and development while continually meeting the needs of its residents and preserving its unique small town character all have come to admire and appreciate, including protecting the inspiring natural surroundings which the community values and respects.

The strategic planner concluded the presentation by outlining the next steps in the planning process, which include identifying strategic priorities that will guide policy and initiatives in the coming years. This Vision Statement serves as the cornerstone for the plan, shaping the town’s goals and ensuring alignment with the community’s aspirations for the future.

Falcon Commerce Center Final PUD approved

At the Jan. 6 meeting, representatives from NES and the developers of Falcon Commerce Center presented updates on the multi-phase project, detailing the planned industrial and commercial development. The project, spanning 214 acres, includes areas for civic, industrial, medical, and office uses. Key infrastructure improvements, such as the extension of Terrazzo Drive, were highlighted, with NES contributing $480,000 toward traffic signal enhancements.

Despite these efforts, councilmembers raised concerns. King expressed unease about contaminants in the stormwater basin, while Kimple criticized the traffic situation and suggested that the development would worsen congestion on the west side. Kimple also objected to the proposed building colors, preferring earth tones over U.S. Air Force Academy-inspired designs.

King and Fiorito underscored the growing traffic issues, with Fiorito noting that even in “perfect weather,” congestion remains a problem, and 18-wheel trucks would exacerbate the issue. King described the situation as “a giant mess,” while Kimple questioned the overall impact on Terrazzo Road, pointing out that decisions made by CDOT to add a roundabout have not resolved the core challenges. Councilmember Romanello countered the concerns, calling the extended delays “ridiculous,” demanding a vote to move forward.

Though concerns remained prominent, the council ultimately voted 7-0 to approve the updated plans. Fiorito and Kimple reiterated their reservations about the traffic implications and building aesthetics, with Fiorito stating he would like something other than “big white buildings.” Despite the unanimous approval, the council acknowledged the need for ongoing diligence in addressing traffic flow, environmental impacts, and design standards as the project progresses.

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The Monument Town Council usually meets at 6:30 p.m. on the first and third Mondays of each month at Monument Town Hall, 645 Beacon Lite Road. The next meetings are scheduled for Monday, Feb. 3 and Tuesday, Feb. 18 (Monday, Feb. 17 is Presidents’ Day). For more information, call 719-884-8014 or visit www.townofmonument.org. To view upcoming agendas, complete board packets, or download audio recordings of past meetings, visit http://monumenttownco.minutesondemand.com and click on “Town Council.”

Chris Jeub can be reached at chrisjeub@ocn.me.

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