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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

Art Matters – On the superpowers of art and daydreaming

By Janet Sellers

Our local arts scene has a lot to offer us for fun, health, and well-being—and we can take the benefits with us when we buy some art for ourselves or gifts. We have had our Chautauqua arts and culture events in Palmer Lake through Aug. 4. Our monthly Art Hop (5 to 8 p.m. on the fourth Fridays through September) is free arts and music for meandering around downtown Monument, and there are lots of art to buy and take home. Participating in the arts improves the quality of life for everyone, especially children and older adults, including cognitive function, memory, and self-esteem. On top of that, the social factors of interactive arts experiences reduce stress and isolation. And the natural sense of flow—such as when looking at art—is an element to high performance sought by athletes, entrepreneurs, musicians and artists.

Art: health and anti-aging

Participating in the arts improves the quality of life for older adults, including cognitive function, memory and self-esteem. On top of that, the social factors of interactive arts experiences reduce stress and isolation. Our dependance on science for factual information is one factor in looking at art for health, but proven methods and results in terms of the arts as medicine and intervention are factors that are being introduced for hospitals and health and for schoolchildren and military veterans. The interdisciplinary use of art, aesthetics, and science can offer relief from our current age of chronic stress, burnout, depression, and mental illness, not to mention pain management. We have complex problems now like never before. Art experiences show a way out of these and into health and longevity.

Hospital health benefits

Besides lowering costs in healthcare, interventions beyond the usual use of medicine have shown that art has a profound effect on the circuitry of the body, the brain, and thereby overall health. The University of Florida has developed a rigorous game plan for arts in medicine. The UF Health Shands Arts in Medicine has a sizable staff of artists-in-residence and creative arts therapists. They offer group workshops and bedside programs, including music in trauma care. As far back as Roman times, the use of music, drums, and other creativities were used in healing the sick. This could transform care into less use of drugs—especially addictive opioids—through mitigation of perceived pain and stress.

Arts provide superpowers

In her article for the National Laboratory for Medicine at the National Institute for Health, Your Brain on Art: The Case for Neuroaesthetics, Susan Magsamen states, “The default mode network, once associated solely with daydreaming, is now linked to many different functions core to human connection and well-being. These include personal identity, sense of meaning, empathy, imagination, and creativity as well as embodied cognition, which allows us to place ourselves in a piece of artwork and make us feel what the artist was feeling.”

Join our local community in celebrating the arts this month. The next Art Hop is Aug. 23, 5 to 8 p.m. Arrive early and enjoy the sculpture park on Second Street, have dinner and ice cream at local venues, and get some art for your life at the many pop-up art spaces and gallery venues.

Janet Sellers, an artist, writer, and speaker who makes and shares her artworks locally and nationally via galleries and writing. She gives talks on the power of art and making things. Contact her at JanetSellers@ocn.me.

Other Art Matters articles

Snapshots of Our Community

Alta ribbon-cutting, June 26

Above: The Alta 25 apartment complex at 1320 Herman View Way in Monument opened its doors with a ribbon cutting on June 26. The complex features one, two-, and three-bedroom apartments in three-story garden-style buildings. Photo by Charlie Searle.

Concert in the Park, June 26

Above: Mimic, a classic rock cover band, has audience members dancing as it played to a full crowd on June 26 during the Concert in the Park series at Limbach Park. Photo by Laura Lucero.

Palmer Lake Fun Run, July 4

On a brisk July 4 morning, over 500 runners participated in person and over 200 virtually in the 42nd annual Palmer Lake Fourth of July Fun Run. The 4-mile race from Palmer Lake to Monument on the Santa Fe Trail traditionally starts the Fourth of July activities in the Tri-Lakes area. Race Coordinator Kelsey Belcher thanked “the volunteers and communities of Palmer Lake and Monument for their continuing support of the race.” She also extended “special thanks to the Palmer Lake Police Department, Storm Guard Construction, a decades-long supporter of the race, Bluestaq, and other vendors who make this race possible with their support.” Proceeds from this 100% volunteer-supported race go directly to the Palmer Lake Elementary School Parent Teacher Organization to distribute for classroom and teachers’ needs. Dillon Powell (19:20:52) and Aubrey Surage (23:26:97), both from Colorado Springs, were the top male and female finishers by chip time. Surage has been the top female finisher for three years in a row. Photos by David Futey.

Above: Ben, Mia, and Grace Kimes of Colorado Springs showed off their Fourth of July spirit before running in the Palmer Lake Fun Run.
Above: Runners make their way around the lake at Palmer Lake just after the 7 a.m. start of the Palmer Lake Fun Run.

Knights of Columbus Pancake Breakfast, July 4

Knights of Columbus Council 11514 of St. Peter Church hosted its annual Fourth of July Pancake Breakfast. Past Grand Knight Alan Feldkamp said, “1,400-1,500 were expected to attend with over 10,000 pancakes being made by Knights volunteers.” Feldkamp said proceeds from the breakfast go toward “Tri-Lakes Cares, Marion House, Lewis Palmer D-38 School District disabled students, Catholic Charities, and other charities supported by the Knights.” Volunteers from the Monument Hill Kiwanis, Veterans of Foreign Wars, St. Peter students, and Boy Scout Troop 17 assisted in making the event a success. Active-duty military and first responders in uniform ate for free. Photos by David Futey.

Above: The St. Peter walkway was packed with attendees of the Fourth of July Pancake Breakfast.
Above: Knights of Columbus Council 11514 Grand Knight Bob Lynn was one of the many volunteers who assisted with the Fourth of July Pancake Breakfast.

Monument Children’s Parade, July 4

Above: From left are Chason Pace, Paisley Harris, Hattie Pollock, Lillian Pace, and Freddy Pollock came attired in red, white, and blue to participate in the Fourth of July Children’s Parade. The Pollock children came all the way from Iowa to attend the parade. Photo by David Futey.
Above: Scouts from Boy Scout Troop 17 lead the way for the Fourth of July Children’s Parade. Photo by David Futey.

The Monument 4th of July parade started with the traditional kids parade. (14 sec)

Monument Parade, July 4

Bands and floats preparing for the 4th of July parade in Monument.

Parade participants lined up along Old Denver Rd preparing to join Monument’s July 4th parade

Fourth Infantry Division Band from Fort Carson.

The Fourth Infantry Division Band from Fort Carson marched in Monument’s 4th of July parade (10 sec)

Above: Scott Ross, Kiwanis president
Above: D38 President Tiffany Upchurch and Superintendent Dr. Stacie Datteri.
Above: Rich and Shannon Schur, Tri-Lakes Chamber of Commerce Business Persons of the Year 2023. Photo by David Futey.
Above: Sheri Miller, Tri-Lakes Chamber of Commerce 2023 Volunteer of the Year. Photo by David Futey.
Above: Maddy Norton, 2024 El Paso Fair Queen and LPHS senior. Photo by David Futey.
Above: Eight-year-old Boone Lester dressed up as George Washington to watch the Fourth of July parade in Monument. Photo by Michael Weinfeld.
Above: The Tri-Lakes Women’s Club.
Above: Palmer Ridge High School BearBotics Robotics.

The Palmer Ridge High School BearBotics Robotics team took part in the Monument 4th of July parade (9 sec)

Above: Lewis-Palmer High School football team.
Above: Palmer Ridge High School football team.
Above: Lewis-Palmer High School cheerleaders.
Above: Palmer Ridge High School cheerleaders.
Above: Tri-Lakes Majors softball team.
Above: Tri-Lakes Little League team.
Above: Lewis-Palmer High School poms.
Above: Monument Fire Department.

Tiny and large dinosaurs danced the Monument 4th of July parade route. (13 sec)

The Colorado Renaissance Festival had a huge contingent in Monument’s 4th of July parade. (1 min 27 sec)

A C-130 cargo plane made several flyovers during Monument’s 4th of July parade. (20 sec)

Monument Street Fair, July 4

Above: Second and Washington Streets in Monument were filled with Fourth of July spectators, enjoying various foods, viewing arts, and local business and nonprofit booths as part of the Tri-Lakes Chamber of Commerce Street Fair. Live music was also available throughout the afternoon at Limbach Park. Photo by David Futey.
Above: The Tri-Lakes Chamber of Commerce set up a booth during the Fourth of July Street Fair in Monument. John Howe, left, manned the booth that morning and was joined by Lisa Hatfield. Both Howe and Hatfield are Our Community News volunteers. OCN is a member of the chamber. Photo by Steve Pate.

Hazel Miller at TLCA, July 19

Above: On July 19, Colorado Music Hall of Fame member Hazel Miller and her backup band The Collective returned to the Tri-Lakes Center for the Arts (TLCA) stage. Miller, a TLCA audience favorite, and the Collective sets included a blend of blues, jazz, and swing genres. The genre diversity was typified by songs performed including Do Wrong Shoes by Jackie Allen, It Don’t Mean a Thing by Duke Ellington, She Just Wants to Dance by Gary U.S. Bonds, and Rio de Janeiro Blues by Joe Sample and Randy Crawford. Information on upcoming events at the TLCA is at www.trilakesarts.org. Photo by David Futey.

Car show at JCSL, July 27

Above: Jackson Creek Senior Living (JCSL), 16601 Jackson Creek Parkway, held its third annual classic car and hotrod show by the Tri-Lakes Cruisers Car Club on July 27. The proud owners of the vehicles were glad to discuss how they restored and modified these classic vehicles. JCSL provided food and live entertainment for residents and guests. For information about JCSL services, you may contact Laura Hale, 719-259-1331. Pictured: Glen Whiteside with his modified 1933 Chevy hotrod. Photo by Steve Pate.

Other Snapshots of Our Community articles

Our Community Notices

By Janet Sellers

Although we strive for accuracy in these listings, dates or times are often changed after publication. Please double-check the time and place of any event you wish to attend by calling the information number for that event. Please notify us if your event listing needs to be updated.

Fox Run Regional Park closures

The Oak Meadows and Pine Meadows restrooms at Fox Run Regional Park are getting remodeled. Both restrooms will be closed through November to undergo renovations that will include the installation of ADA-compliant fixtures, sinks, and wastewater systems. Additionally, the parking lots and sidewalks will be upgraded to ensure full compliance with ADA standards. During construction, both restrooms and the sand volleyball court will be fenced off and closed. Portable restrooms will be available in both parking lots.

Black Forest Slash mulch program

Slash can be brought to the Black Forest slash and mulch program. Tree and brush debris only. No pine needles. (It is important to protect the trees’ health and keep some pine needles on the ground. 80% of the nutrients that the pine trees need come from the decomposing pine needles). This program serves fire mitigation efforts in the area and is $10 per load to drop off, regardless of size. The program also offers free mulch to take home. Info: www.BFSlash.org.

D38 seeks volunteers

Lewis-Palmer School District 38 seeks volunteers now to help with summer gardening and painting projects at Palmer Lake Elementary and Palmer Ridge High School. Contact Kelly Bryant at kbryant@lewispalmer.org for more information.

WMMI needs volunteers

The Museum of Mining and Industry is currently recruiting for Visitor Services Associates and Guides. Please consider sharing your time and expertise. Volunteers must be 18 and older and pass a background check. For information about volunteer opportunities, please call 719-488-0880 or email at volunteer@wmmi.org.

Children’s Literacy Center

The center provides free one-on-one literacy tutoring to Tri-Lakes children in grades 1-6 who are reading below grade level! Tutoring is at the Tri-Lakes Senior Center on Tuesdays and Thursdays from 5:30-6:30 pm, and the Summer Session will run through Aug. 14. For more information, to become a volunteer tutor or to enroll your child, visit www.childrensliteracycenter.org or email Christine Jeffson at Christine@childrensliteracycenter.org.

Tri Lakes Cruisers car club

Call for entries open immediately for the 21st annual benefit car show on August 18, from 9 to 2 along 2nd Street in historic downtown Monument. The not-for-profit car club welcomes anyone interested in cars to this community service organization. Funds from the car show benefit local charities such as Tri Lakes cares as well as scholarships for local high school students. Pre-registration to be in the show is required. Enter at www.trilakecruisers.com

Community volunteers

Many students need volunteer hours for scouting, civics classes, clubs, or would just like to volunteer for the good of it. Friends of Fox Run Park will have some openings for student volunteers (and grownups, too) most of the year for various tasks. Besides tasks, the group offers information and skills demonstrations for each 2-3 hour session, and celebrates volunteers at the park with annual community events. The Tri Lakes Cares on-site garden in Monument also needs volunteers in Fall, Spring and Summer. Gardening tasks include preparing garden beds, weeding, sowing seeds, and developing the compost. Bring gardening gloves, some tools will be provided on the workdays. Contact Janet Sellers at JanetSellers@ocn.me or Marlene Brown at MarleneBrown@ocn.me for more information.

Tri-Lakes Cares needs your support

Tri-Lakes Cares is the only food pantry and human services organization serving northern El Paso County through emergency relief and self-sufficiency programs. The community-based, volunteer-supported center is a critical resource for our neighbors in need. The best way to help support Tri-Lakes Cares is to donate. Visit tri-lakescares.org/donate to learn how to donate money, medical items, personal supplies, or food. Please check the web for current needs in our food pantry at tri-lakescares.org/donate/current-needs. Donation drop-off hours are Mon.-Thu., 9 am-4 pm. For more information about Tri-Lakes Cares or how you can help, contact Tri-Lakes Cares at 719-481-4864 or info@tri-lakescares.org.

Silver Key at Tri-Lakes Senior Center

Silver Key at Tri-Lakes Senior Center, formerly known as the Tri-Lakes Silver Alliance Senior Center, has been providing exciting programs and activities to area seniors who have a zest for fun and learning. As the older adult population is growing, our services are in high demand. 719-884-2300 66 Jefferson St, Monument. See ad on page < 2 >.

Need PC help?

Make It Work Clinic for PCs, FREE. Donations appreciated. We are gauging interest in helping community members with their PCs, please email us if interested. enable@monumentalimpact.org. 55 Adams St in Downtown Monument. Monumental Impact info: monumentalimpact.org.

The Sunflower is for people with non-visible disabilities

Watch for green and yellow sunflower lanyards, bracelets, and ribbons, discreet ways to make the invisible visible. Wearing the Sunflower discreetly indicates to people around the wearer including staff, colleagues and health professionals that they need additional support, help or a little more time. However big or small, your help moves us closer to a society where people recognize that an offer of help, understanding and kindness can make a huge difference to the daily experiences that a Sunflower wearer has. For more information: www.flydenver.com/accessibility, www.hdsunflower.com/us/, and www.disabled-world.com/disability/types/invisible/.

MVEA outage notifications

Please add your phone number to your MVEA account to streamline outage reporting and restoration notifications. To report an outage please call or text “OUT” to (800) 388-9881. Visit MVEA’s Outage Center before the storm. There is information about preparing for outages, electrical safety, outage reporting, a link to the outage map, and more.

Can you volunteer today?

  • Links to local organizations with an immediate need for volunteers are listed on the county’s website, www.elpasocountyhealth.org/volunteering-and-donations, for groups like Care and Share, Crossfire Ministries, blood donations, Early Connections (volunteer from home opportunity), foster an animal, Medical Reserve Corps of El Paso County, Salvation Army, Silver Key, and United Way (ongoing opportunities).
  • The Colorado State University Extension office in El Paso County has several opportunities for individuals interested in volunteering. elpaso.extension.colostate.edu/volunteer-opportunities/
  • El Paso County volunteer-based and nonprofit organizations rely on the hard work of individuals like you. Find out how you can play a part by becoming a volunteer in El Paso County. Get involved in El Paso County volunteering non-profits and organizations! www.americantowns.com/el-paso-county-co/volunteer-organizations/.
  • The El Paso County Sheriff’s Office Volunteer Program is composed of a collective citizens group with a true and common desire to partner with the El Paso County Sheriff’s Office by volunteering their services while learning more about the internal workings of the law enforcement community. www.epcsheriffsoffice.com/volunteer-program-0.
  • The El Paso County Volunteer Program is a wonderful opportunity for citizens to learn about the various functions of county government as well as give back to the community. The County’s numerous boards and commissions need your experience, talents and time. bocc.elpasoco.com/volunteer.

Other Our Community Notices articles

Our Community Calendar

By Janet Sellers

Although we strive for accuracy in these listings, dates or times are often changed after publication. Please double-check the time and place of any event you wish to attend by calling the info number for that event. Please contact calendar@ocn.me with changes and additions.

GOVERNMENTAL BODIES

  • Forest Lakes Metropolitan District, Pinon Pines Metropolitan Districts 1, 2 & 3 board meetings, usually meets quarterly on the first Mon., at 4 p.m., via teleconference only. For dial in access and updates, visit www.forestlakesmetrodistrict.com.
  • Monument Town Council meeting, Mon., Aug. 5 & 19, 6:30 pm, Town Hall Board Room, 645 Beacon Lite Rd., Monument. Normally meets first and third Mon. Info: 719-884-801, www.townofmonument.org/260/Board-of-Trustees for remote attendance links.
  • El Paso Board of County Commissioners (BOCC) regular meeting, usually every Tue., 9 am. View agendas and meetings at www.agendasuite.org/iip/elpaso. Meetings are held at Centennial Hall, 200 S. Cascade Ave., Suite 150, Colo. Springs. Info: 719-520-643. BOCC land use meetings are held the second and fourth Thursdays of the month (as needed) at 1pm Centennial Hall.
  • Palmer Lake Board of Adjustments meeting, Tue., Aug. 6, 5 pm, 28 Valley Crescent St., Palmer Lake. Normally meets first Tue., as needed.
  • Woodmoor Water & Sanitation District board meeting, Mon., Aug 12, 1 pm, 1845 Woodmoor Dr., Monument. Normally meets second Mon. Info: 719-488-2525, www.woodmoorwater.com.
  • Tri-Lakes Wastewater Facility Joint Use Committee meeting, Tue., Aug. 12, 10 am, 16510 Mitchell Ave. Meets second Tue. Info: See tlwastewater.com/index.html Bill Burks, 719-481-4053.
  • Palmer Lake Sanitation District board meeting, Wed., Aug. 13, 9 am, call-in only: 650-479-3208, Access Code 76439078, 120 Middle Glenway. Meets second Wed. Info: 719-481-2732. www.plsd.org.
  • Monument Planning Commission meeting, Wed., Aug. 14, 6 pm Town Hall Board Room, 645 Beacon Lite Rd., Monument. Usually meets the second Wed. To see the options for remote public participation in each meeting, visit www.townofmonument.org/263/Planning-Commission-Board-of-Adjustment. Info: 719-884-8028. www.townofmonument.org.
  • Palmer Lake Board of Trustees meeting, Thu., Aug. 8 & 22, 6 pm, Palmer Lake Town Hall, 28 Valley Crescent. Usually meets second and fourth Thu. Info: 719-481-2953. www.townofpalmerlake.com.
  • Monument Academy School Board meeting, Thu., Aug. 8, 6:30 pm, East Campus gym, 4303 Pinehurst Circle. Usually meets the second Thu. Info: 719-431-8001, www.monumentacademy.net/school-board.
  • Monument Sanitation District board meeting, Wed., Aug. 21, 9 am, 130 Second St. Zoom meeting. Find joining instructions on the website. Meets third Wed. Info: 719-481-4886, www.colorado.gov/msd.
  • Academy Water and Sanitation District board meeting, Wed., Aug. 21, 6 pm. Usually meets third Wed. Public can join the Skype meeting: join.skype.com/PAcujKTn7Nrh. Check the website for a link: academywsd.colorado.gov/notices-and-alerts. Meets third Wed. Info: 719-481-071119academywsd.colorado.gov.
  • Palmer Lake Town Planning Commission meeting, Wed., Aug. 21, 6 pm, Palmer Lake Town Hall, 28 Valley Crescent. Meets third Wed. Info: 719-481-2953, www.townofpalmerlake.com.
  • El Paso County Regional Loop Water Authority meeting, Thu., Aug 15, 9 am, Monument Town Hall Boardroom, 645 Beacon Lite Rd. Normally meets third Thu. Info: 719-488-3603. www.loopwater.org.
  • Donala Water & Sanitation District board meeting, Thu., Aug. 15, 1:30 pm, 15850 Holbein Dr. In 2023, meets third Thu., Check the website for the access code for the electronic meeting. Info: 719-488-3603, www.donalawater.org.
  • Black Forest Fire/Rescue Protection District board meeting, usually meets third Wed., in person or via Zoom. Next meeting Wed., Aug. 21, 7 p.m., Station 1, 11445 Teachout Road, Colorado Springs. Visit www.bffire.org for updates and the agenda listing the Zoom joining codes, or contact 719-494-4300.
  • Triview Metropolitan District board meeting, usually meets third Thu., in person or via Zoom. Next meeting Thu., Aug. 22, 5:30 p.m.,16055 Old Forest Point, Suite 302, Monument. Visit www.triviewmetro.com for updates and the agenda listing the Zoom joining codes, or contact 719-488-6868.
  • El Paso County Planning Commission meeting, Thu., Aug. 15, 9 am. Regional Development Center, 2880 International Circle, Colo. Springs. Meetings are live-streamed on the El Paso County News & Information Channel at www.elpasoco.com/news-information-channel. Normally meets first & third Thu. (as required). Info: 719-520-6300, planningdevelopment.elpasoco.com/planning-community-development/2024-hearings-schedule/
  • Donald Wescott Fire Protection District board meeting, usually meets fourth Wed., in person or via Zoom. Next meeting Wed., Sep. 25, 4:30 p.m., Station 1, 18650 Highway 105, Monument. Visit www.monumentfire.org for updates and the agenda listing the Zoom joining codes, or contact 719-488-0911.
  • Monument Fire District board meeting, usually meets fourth Wed., in person or via Microsoft Teams. Next meeting Wed., Aug. 28, 6:30 p.m., Station 1, 18650 Highway 105, Monument. Visit www.monumentfire.org, for updates and the agenda listing the Mircosoft Teams joining codes, or contact 719-488-0911.
  • Woodmoor Improvement Association Board Meeting, Wed., Aug. 28, 7 pm, Woodmoor Barn, 1691 Woodmoor Dr. The WIA Board usually meets fourth Wed. Info: 719-488-2693, www.woodmoor.org.
  • Lewis-Palmer School District 38 board, Mon., Aug. 21, 6-10 pm, 146 N Jefferson St, Monument. Meets during the school year on third Mon. The Board of Education meeting will be live-streamed on the district’s YouTube channel: www.youtube.com/user/LPSDCommunity, agenda, and supporting documents at go.boarddocs.com/co/lewispalmer/Board.nsf/vpublic. Contact Vicki Wood. Phone: 719.481.9546 Email: vwood@lewispalmer.org Website: www.lewispalmer.org.
  • Lewis-Palmer School District 38 Parent and Community Advisory Committee (now PCAC, formerly DAAC. Meets six times a year. Usually meets monthly, second Tue. Contact info: tmckee@lewispalmer.org.

WEEKLY & MONTHLY EVENTS

  • AARP Black Forest #1100, second Wed., noon. In-person Black Forest Lutheran Church, 12455 Black Forest Rd. All ages welcome. Info: www.aarpchapter1100blackforest.weekly.com.
  • AARP Local Senior Social, fourth Wed. In-person Black Forest Lutheran Church, 12455 Black Forest Rd. Info: www.aarpchapter1100blackforest.weekly.com.
  • A.A. Big Book Study, every Thu., 7 pm, Family of Christ Lutheran Church, 675 W. Baptist Rd. Call 425-436-6200, access code 575176#.
  • Alcoholics Anonymous, every Tue. & Thu., 7:30 p.m. Black Forest Lutheran Church, 12455 Black Forest Road, Colorado Springs, Colorado 80908. AA is a fellowship of people who share their experience, strength and hope with each other that they June solve their common problem and help others to recover from alcoholism. The only requirement for membership is a desire to stop drinking. Join us with your questions. Info: bflc@bflchurch.org.
  • Al-Anon for family and friends of alcoholics, every Tue. & Thu., 7:30 p.m. Black Forest Lutheran Church, 12455 Black Forest Road, Colorado Springs, Colorado 80908. Al-Anon members are people, just like you, who are worried about someone with a drinking problem. Join us with your questions. Info: bflc@bflchurch.org.
  • Al-Anon Zoom Meeting, Just for Today Online, every Mon., 9-10 am Zoom Meeting ID: 889 4142 7446, Password 349309.
  • Al-Anon meeting: Letting Go, every Thu., 9-10:15 am at Ascent Church, 1750 Deer Creek Rd., Monument. For additional information go to www.al-anon-co.org.
  • Al-anon Meeting: Monument, every Thu., 7-8 pm, Ascent Church, 1750 Deer Creek Rd., Monument. Info: MonumentSerenity@gmail.com.
  • Amateur ham radio WØTLM (Tri-Lakes Monument ham radio Association), third Mon. (except December). All amateur ham radio operators or those interested in becoming one are we, lcome. Tri-Lakes Chamber of Commerce Building, 166 2nd Street, Monument. For details, contact Bob Witte, bob@k0nr.com or www.W0TLM.com.
  • American Legion Tri-Lakes Post 9-11, second Wed., 6:30pm, Tri-Lakes Chamber of Commerce Community Meeting House, 300 CO Hwy 105, Monument. New members welcome. Info: Visit website at www.trilakespost9-11.org.
  • Art: Open Studio painting, Wed., Aug. 7, 9:30-noon. Donations welcome, meets monthly first Wed. Tri Lakes Senior Center, 66 Jefferson St., Monument.
  • Benet Hill Monastery: Let us pray with you, walk in the forest, walk the labyrinth, come and visit prayer sites, Group retreats. Experience the modified trees of the Ute people, Fri.- Sun. Aug. 2-4, and Fri.-Sun. Sep. 27-29. Sun. worship is 10:15 am, 3190 Benet Lane, 80921. See ad on page < 3 >.
  • Black Forest Community Church, Centering Prayer Group, first Sat., 8:30-10 am The Old Log Church. Centering prayer opens and closes the meetings with discussion and fellowship in between; open to all.
  • Children’s Literacy Center, every Mon. & Wed., 5:30-6:30 pm. Provides free one-on-one literacy tutoring to Tri-Lakes children in grades 1-6 who are reading below grade level. Tutoring is at Grace Best Education Center, 66 Jefferson St. Monument. For more information, to become a volunteer tutor, or to enroll your child, visit www.childrensliteracycenter.org or contact Rachel Morin, Tri-Lakes Senior Center Coordinator, CLC 610-246-1047 (cell).
  • Colorado Springs Philharmonic Guild Listening Club, third Wed. Free virtual event. Maestro Wilson will conduct monthly hour-long programs. RSVP at www.cspguild.org.
  • Dementia Caregiver Support Group, second Sat., 9:45-11:15 am. Meets in-person, First National Bank Monument ( 581 Highway 105, Monument, CO 80132). Meets monthly, 2nd Sat. Contact: Registration is required, call 800-272-3900 or email khare@alz.org to register.
  • Essential Tremor Support Group. Meets quarterly at Colorado Springs Public Library 21c, 1175 Chapel Hills Drive Colorado Springs, CO 80920. For details, contact: Jim Sanchez, 719-660-7275; jimdjs22@gmail.com.
  • Fellowship of Christ Church, every Sun., 9 am. Monument Academy East Campus, 4303 Pinehurst Circle 80908.
  • Friends of Fox Run Park, Zoom meeting, fourth Thu., 7 pm, email friendsoffoxrunpark@gmail.com, they will email you the link the day of the meeting. Join the growing group to learn about volunteering and supporting the park for forest safety, trails, trees, education, special events, and more. Special events including “Christmas in July,” August Hummingbird Festival and more, stay tuned! Info: friendsoffoxrunpark@gmail.com.
  • Friends of Monument Preserve (FOMP) Trail repair monthly work days, second Thu. of each month from April through October. Meet at 6 pm at the parking lot off Red Rocks Road. FOMP provides all the necessary tools but you must wear appropriate clothing for landscape work and bring gloves, a hat , eye protection, sunscreen, bug repellent and water. Check the FOMP website at www.fomp.org for additional info.
  • Fuel Church GriefShare, every Thu., 5:30-7:30 pm, 643 State Highway 105, Palmer Lake. Email info@fuel.org. 643 Hwy 105, Palmer Lake.
  • Fuel Church Sunday Service, every Sun. Service times, 11 am Live service streaming at www.fuelchurch.org at 11:40 am on www.fuelchurch.org. Mountain Community Mennonite Church, 643 Hwy 105, Palmer Lake. Nursery and kids’ service. Non-denominational, spirit-filled. Need prayer? Email us at info@fuel.org. See ad on page < 5 >.
  • Gleneagle Sertoma, first and third Wed., 11:45 am to 1 pm. Gleneagle Sertoma is the longest continuously active civic service organization in northern El Paso County. Our regular program presenters address local topics of interest to include local developments, community planning and projects, as well as opportunities to serve your community. Contact Harvey LeCato for meeting location and club information at mbca@comcast.net or 719-331-1212.
  • Gleneagle Women’s Club, membership luncheon, third Fri., (Sep.-June), various venues, 12 activity groups, i.e., hiking, bridge, etc. Guests welcome. For information contact Susan Owen, 719-886-7110.
  • La Leche League breastfeeding support group, second Thu., 12:30 pm. Partners and helpers welcome (and babies and kids, too) so we can meet our breastfeeding goals together. Homestead Direct Primary Care Clinic, 15455 Gleneagle Drive, Colorado Springs, CO 80921. For more information, contact RachelKLangley@gmail.com.
  • Lions Club Bingo, every Sat. (except the first Sat.), 8:30 am-1 pm and first Mon., 5:30-10 pm Tri-Lakes Lions Club’s portion of the proceeds benefit those in need in the Tri-Lakes community. Updated info and location: Jim Naylor, 719-481-8741 or www.trilakeslionsclub.org.
  • Library Chess Club, We welcome anyone who wants to learn to play chess or wants to play a game with an experienced player. Contact Steve Waldmann, huskerco@gmail.com. Monument Library meeting room, 1706 Lake Woodmoor Dr., Monument (Information also on the Facebook page: Monument Library Chess Club)
  • Monument Hill Kiwanis Club meeting, every Sat., 8 am. www.MHKiwanis.org, MonumentHillKiwanis@gmail.com for details, guests are welcome. Service leadership clubs, Key clubs, Builders Club, and K-kids at D38 schools. Memberships are open to the public. Info: RF Smith, 719-210-4987, www.MHKiwanis.org.
  • Monument Life Recovery Group, every Mon., 6:30-7:30 pm, The Ascent Church, 1750 Deer Creek Rd. This faith-based support group is for those seeking freedom from all hurts, habits, and hang-ups. Daycare for children under age 11. Info: 303-946-2659, www.liferecoverygroups.com/meetings/life-recovery-group-3/.
  • Neighborhood Net Ham Radio, every Sat., 10 am. Amateur ham radio operators practice for emergencies on weekly repeater nets so neighbors can help neighbors. Sign up at www.mereowx.org/neighborhood-net or contactus@mereowx.org.
  • Northern El Paso County Coalition of Community Associations (NEPCO), Sat., Sep. 14, 10 am–12 pm., Woodmoor Barn, 1691 Woodmoor Dr. Members of local HOAs are welcome. Usually meets bi-monthly (Jan., Mar., June, July, Sep., Nov.) on the second Sat. of the month. www.nepco.org.
  • Palmer Divide Quiltmakers, first Thu., 6:30-8:30 pm at Monument Chamber of Commerce building, 166 2nd St, Monument, CO.
  • Palmer Lake Art Group, second Sat. A variety of art programs are offered after the social gathering and business meetings. Guests welcome. 300 Hwy 105, NE corner of I-25 and 105. 9:30 am. Info: 719-460-4179, www.palmerlakeartgroup.co.
  • Palmer Lake Historical Society, Thu., Aug. 15, 7 pm; (doors open at 6:30 pm), Palmer Lake Town Hall, 28 Valley Crescent St. Usually meets third Thu. Contact: Kokesdm@yahoo.com, palmerdividehistory.org.
  • Pikes Peak Genealogical Society meeting, Wed., Aug. 14, 7 pm. Meets monthly, second Wed. Members can log in and get the monthly meeting Zoom link. Guests are welcome to attend, please request an invitation from the PPGS president at www.PPGS.org.
  • Ridgeview Baptist Church, every Sun., 10:30 am, temporarily meeting at 9130 Explorer Dr., Colorado Springs, 80920. Info: 719-357-6515 or www.ridgeviewcolorado.org. See ad on page < 6 >.
  • Senior Bingo, third Wed. Silver Alliance Senior Center, Space is limited to 16. participants. RSVP & info:info@silverkey.org
  • Senior Book Club, second Fri., 11 am-noon, Silver Alliance Senior Center, all are welcome. Coffee & snacks. RSVP & info: info@silverkey.org
  • Tri-Lakes United Methodist Church, every Sun., Contemporary 9 am; Traditional 10:30 am. A live stream is available at www.tlumc.org/live. Watch live or replay: www.facebook.com/tlumc, www.youtube.com/tlumc.org. Info: 719-488-1365, www.tlumc.org. 20256 Hunting Downs Way, Monument.
  • Tri-Lakes Church of Christ Wednesday night fellowship classes, every Wed., 6-7:30 pm, 20450 Beacon Lite Road, Monument (corner of Beacon Lite & County Line Roads). Info: 719-488-9613, gregsmith@trilakeschurch.org, www.trilakeschurch.org.
  • Tri-Lakes Cruisers, first Wed., 7 pm. A nonprofit car club. Tri-Lakes Chamber of Commerce community room, with numerous activities and events each month. Club membership applications are now being accepted and are available on the website: tl-cruisers.weebly.com.
  • Tri-Lakes Chamber of Commerce Networking breakfast, first and third Thu., in person or via Zoom 166 2nd Street Monument 7:30-9 am free registration at www.TriLakeschamber.com .
  • Tri-Lakes Church of Christ Cabin Conversations: fellowship with meals. every Wed., 6 pm 20450 Beacon Lite Rd.
  • Tri-Lakes Dynamic Rotary Club meeting, monthly first and third Thu. 6 pm-8 pm. First Thursday via zoom and third Thursday in person at the Chamber of Commerce, 166 2nd St., Monument. Details: www.tlrotary.com, Trilakesdynamicrotary@gmail.com. Guests welcome. We are a service club serving Tri-Lakes. Memberships open to the public. Info: www.tlrotary.com.
  • Tri-Lakes Parkinson’s Disease Support Group, third Sat., 10 am-noon, Monument Community Presbyterian Church, 238 Third St., Monument. Info: Syble Krafft, 719-488-2669; Barry (group president), 719-351-9485. If you need any help, please call Syble or Barry.
  • Tri-Lakes Women’s Club (TLWC) monthly meeting, third Fri., 11:30 am. Eisenhower Golf Club, USAFA. To become a member, or learn about the club, visit our website at www.tlwc.net Contact Info: Tri-Lakes Women’s Club membership@tlwc.net.
  • Women’s A. A. Step Study, every Mon., 6:30 pm, meeting remotely, check for details. Family of Christ Lutheran Church, 675 Baptist Rd. Park in the west lot. Info: 866-641-9190. Al-Anon Zoom Meeting, Just for Today Online, every Mon., 9:00 – 10:00 am Zoom Meeting ID: 889 4142 7446, Password 349309
  • Veterans of Foreign Wars (VFW) Post 7829, third Wed., 7 pm, Tri-Lakes Chamber of Commerce community room, 166 2nd St., Monument. New members welcome. Info: Post Commander and POC Bruce Beyerly, Bruce.Beyerly@gmail.com.
  • VFW Auxiliary to Post 7829, third Wed., 7 p.m. Meets at Victory Baptist Church, 325 2nd Street, Suite X, Monument. Guests are welcome to join; if you are a relative of a veteran who served on foreign soil during war or other military actions, you June be eligible. For more information please contact Kathy Carlson, 719-488-1902, carlsonmkc@gmail.com or Linda Lyons, 303-579-8114, lindalyons7829@gmail.com.

SPECIAL EVENTS

  • VOLUNTEER TODAY! Our Community News: volunteer mailing days, Thu. Aug. 1 & Sep. 5, approx. 7-8:30 am. We are all volunteers at OCN and need YOUR help, even for an hour or two, getting the papers ready to mail. Contact AllenAlchian@ocn.me or (719) 488-3455.
  • Monument Hill Farmers market every Sat., 8-2 pm. D38 Lewis Palmer admin building, 66 Jefferson Street, Monument. See ad on page < 5 >.
  • Town of Monument, Concerts in the Park, every Wed. through Aug. 28, 6:30-8:30 pm. Limbach park.
  • Western Museum of Mining and Industry (WMMI), Western saloon night, Sat., Aug. 3, 6-9 p.m. See ad on page < 12 >.
  • Lang 25th annual community pig roast, Fri., Aug. 9, 5:30-7 pm, free. See ad on page < 8 >.
  • Kings Deer Community garage sale, Fri-Sun., Aug. 9- 11. Visit www.kingsdeer.org select garage sale. See ad on page < 5 >.
  • Native American Sacred Trees and Places, (NASTaP), annual membership meeting and conference, Fri.-Sat. Aug. 16-18, (open to the public). Speakers, tree tours, fire circle, drumming. See ad on page < 5 >.
  • Community fire risk seminar, Tue., Aug. 20, 6-7:30pm, Monument Fire Department will share details on the local need for safety and firewise awareness. Tri Lakes Chamber community room, 166 2nd St.
  • Trinity Community Park, grand opening, Sat., Aug. 24, games, prizes, crafts. 17750 Knollwood Dr., Monument.
  • YMCA fall youth sports, register today! Season starts Mon., Aug. 26. See ad on page < 6 >.
  • Thrivent Financial advisors, Taxes and the widow’s penalty, webinar Fri., Aug. 16, in person Wed., Aug.28, Monument library. See ad on page < 4 >.
  • Tri-Lakes Cruisers 21st Annual Benefit Car Show open entries now: supporting Tri-Lakes Cares, Sun., Aug. 18, 9- 2 pm, along Second Street, Historic Downtown Monument. All entries for display and judging must be pre-registered, (no registration on the day of the Show). On-line or US mailed-in registrations accessed at www.trilakescruisers.com ($35 per vehicle) The event DJ, food trucks and other vendors, and a dog watering shade tent will be under the trees along Second Street next to the School District D-38 Admin Building.
  • Monument Art Hop, Fri., Aug. 23, 5-8 pm, Downtown Monument. Art, music, food, and fun; fourth Fridays, through Sep. See ad on page < 2 >.
  • MVEA Member appreciation breakfast, Sat., Aug. 24, 9-11 am, free. 11140 E Woodmen Rd. Falcon. See ad on page < 7 >.
  • Monument Block Party, Classic car club, free barbecue, cornhole, bounce house, Sat., Aug. 24, 3-6:30 p.m. Dinner 4- 6:00 p.m. Ascent church 1750 Deer Creek Rd. See ad on page < 4 >.
  • The Love Shop, restyle your furs. Mon.-Tue., Aug. 26-27. See ad on page < 8 >.
  • Space Foundation Summer of Discovery, fun and educational workshops Sat. thru Aug. 31. See ad on page < 12 >.
  • Affordable Flooring Connection, special offers. See ad on page < 2 >.
  • Eagle Wine & Spirits, special offers. See ad on page < 3 >.
  • Monumental Med Spa special offers. See ad on page < 7 >.
  • Monument Cleaners, special offers. See ad on page < 5 >.
  • Mountain View Pella windows, special offers. See ad on page < 24 >.
  • Mutt Masters canine academy, special offers. See ad on page < 7 >.
  • Noel Relief Centers, special offers. See ad on page < 7 >.
  • PeakView Windows, special offers. See ad on page < 24 >.
  • Slender Construction: Asphalt paving, seal coating, etc. special offers. See ad on pages 4, 14 & 17.
  • The Living Room Plants, special offers. See ad on page < 5 >.
  • Tri-Lakes Collision and Auto Service Center, special offers. See ad on page < 5 >.
  • Miners pumpkin patch: Every Sat. in Oct. at Western Museum of Mining and Industry. See ad on page < 12 >.

Our community calendar carries listings on a space-available basis for Tri-Lakes events that are sponsored by local governmental entities and not-for-profit organizations. We include events that are open to the general public and are not religious or self-promotional in nature. If space is available, complimentary calendar listings are included, when requested, for events advertised in the current issue. To have your event listed at no charge in Our Community Calendar, please send the information to calendar@ocn.me or Our Community News, P.O. Box 1742, Monument, Colorado 80132.

Other Our Community Calendar articles

Palmer Lake Board of Trustees, Jan. 11 and 25 – Ben Lomand annexation considered; TLCA closed to the public

By James Howald and Jackie Burhans

At its meeting on Jan. 25, the Palmer Lake Board of Trustees (PLBOT) held a public hearing to consider three land use issues. Of the three, the eligibility of the Ben Lomand property owned by the United Congregational Church for annexation by the town was the most contentious. At the same meeting the board continued its discussion of the conditional use permit it had granted to The Movement Church to use the Tri-Lakes Center for the Arts TLCA) building as a church.

The board also addressed a request to vacate a town right of way (ROW) on Petite Avenue. After some discussion, the board tabled a resolution concerning the memo of understanding (MOU) with Awake the Lake (ATL) regarding the proposed pickleball courts. The policy for public comments was also updated at this meeting.

At the board’s first meeting of 2024, held on Jan. 11, the board held a public hearing on a conditional use permit for a new business. It also voted on several resolutions appointing volunteers to commissions and boards.

Both meetings ended with executive sessions.

Board assesses eligibility for annexation

Mayor Pro Tem Dennis Stern opened the public hearing to consider a petition from the United Congregational Church to the town requesting annexation of 181.5 acres of land the church owns. The land in question is south of County Line Road, west of Indi Drive, and north of Capella Drive and is currently part of unincorporated El Paso County. The land is part of a larger property owned by the church, 163 acres of which are already part of the town. Stern said the applicant for annexation would speak first and then the public could comment. After public comments, the applicant would make a closing statement. Stern stressed the hearing was to assess eligibility only and other issues would be addressed later in the process.

Dan Madison, a civil engineer with Manheart Consulting, represented the church. His petition, included in the packet for the meeting, argued the property was eligible for annexation because:

  • More than 1/6th of the perimeter is contiguous to the town.
  • There is a community of interest with the town.
  • The land is rural and capable of being integrated with the town.
  • The annexation will not change any school district.
  • The land will not be divided without the consent of the owner.

Scott Krob, the town attorney, said the annexation process has three steps:

  • Filing a petition with a map, which has been done.
  • A determination of eligibility.
  • The annexation itself, which must be consented to by both sides.

Krob said the public hearing was part of the second step in the annexation process. He reviewed the criteria for eligibility detailed in the church’s petition.

Krob explained the consideration of eligibility would not be completed at the board meeting because the town was required to write an annexation impact report examining water, sewer, and electrical service, among other issues, and to submit that report to the county. The report was in progress and would go to the county in a few days, he said.

Krob said the public hearing would remain open until Feb. 2, allowing the county time to review the impact report.

Stern opened the public comment portion of the hearing. Resident Roger Mosely said the hearing did not meet requirements because the county had only had 22 days’ notice, not the 25 days required by statute. He went on to argue the property was not eligible for annexation because the town’s master plan was inadequate, the impact report had not been submitted, and the area to be annexed must be urban.

Resident Martha Brodzik said the town needed to consider the financial impact of annexation. Johan Moum said he was afraid the developer would change the nature of the development at some later time. Krob said issues of zoning could not be considered until after the annexation was complete.

Meggan Herington, the county Planning and Community Development director, said the Board of County Commissioners had received notice of the proposed annexation in early January and had asked her to tell the town what should be included in the impact report. She said she had sent the town a letter and asked that traffic and drainage studies be done, and that protection of Ben Lomand and existing trails should be considered. She said the commissioners would schedule a meeting quickly after receiving the impact report.

Residents made comments including:

  • That fire prevention costs be considered.
  • That residents should have input into the annexation impact report.
  • That the town would be better stewards than the county.
  • That the proposed development might lead to current residents needing to redrill their wells.
  • That 5-acre lots would be better than the 2.5-acre lots the Palmer Lake Planning Commission had approved.
  • That the presence of Native American artifacts in the land to be annexed should be considered.
  • That the draft of the annexation agreement had issues about the compliance of accessory dwelling units with code.

Trustee Jessica Farr said the discussion about annexation had been going on for years and if the land was not annexed the town would still be obligated to provide police and fire service to any residents due to the principal of mutual aid, but all tax revenue would go to the county, so the town would not be reimbursed.

Trustee Shana Ball said she supported the annexation because it gave the town control.

In his closing statement, Madison said he believed the eligibility requirements had been met and residents’ concerns would be addressed in the later steps of the development process. He said traffic, water availability, drainage, and environmental concerns would be handled in due course, and that the applicant had no intention to change the project as it proceeded through the development process.

Later in the meeting, the board voted to wait until its next meeting on Feb. 8 to vote on Resolution 13-2024, which would determine the Ben Lomand property’s eligibility for annexation.

Board closes TLCA to public

At the Jan. 25 meeting, Town Administrator Dawn Collins reviewed the background of the conditional use permit granted to The Movement Church to use the TLCA building as a church.

At its Dec. 14 meeting, the board granted The Movement Church a conditional use permit to use the TLCA building for church services. The Planning Commission had previously approved that use on a three-to-two vote with the requirement to complete inspections by the Fire Department and Pikes Peak Regional Building Department (PPRBD) and to resolve any violations. Collins said the PPRBD can’t complete its inspection without accurate plans, and the plans submitted included residential living accommodations. Residential living was never approved for the building. In addition, the fire inspection was incomplete because the fire chief had not been allowed access to some parts of the building.

Collins said the Fire Department had concluded the building was not safe and should not be open to the public, the town staff believed no one should be living there and she asked the board for guidance.

Fire Chief John Vincent said the only Certificate of Occupancy (CO) he could find was out of date and was approved in 1999 when the building was a garage. He said he had been asking the owner of the building for information since 2021 without any response and had been denied access to some of the building during his inspection. He recommended closure until the required information was provided.

John Cressman, speaking on behalf of The Movement Church, asked for more time to resolve outstanding issues. He said he had presented plans he had received from TLCA at a recent virtual meeting with town staff. The church was working hard to fix problems and many buildings had changed without updating their CO, Cressman said. In response to a question from Stern, Cressman said he did not know when accurate plans would be available.

Ball said she wanted to support the work that was being done but she had a concern about inadequate egress if there is a fire.

Krob summed up the situation by saying the building had no CO and a recommendation from the fire chief that it should be closed. The town could be liable. Krob recommended the town follow the recommendation of the fire chief.

Trustee Samantha Padgett made a motion to close the TLCA building to the public until the current issues were rectified. Krob clarified that the owner would need to obtain a CO and pass a fire inspection. The motion to close the building passed, with Trustees Ball, Nick Erhardt, and Padgett voting in favor and Stern and Trustee Jessica Farr voting no. Trustee Kevin Dreher and Mayor Glant Havenar were absent from the meeting.

Above: At its Jan. 25 meeting, the Palmer Lake Board of Trustees closed the Tri-Lakes Center for the Arts (TLCA) to the public due to fire safety concerns. In December, the board granted a conditional use permit to TLCA to allow the newly formed Movement Church to use the building for periodic church services. The conditions imposed by the Palmer Lake Planning Commission at its November meeting were that TLCA must complete inspections by the Palmer Lake Fire Department (PLFD) and by the Pikes Peak Regional Department (PPRBD) and address any issues that came up during those inspections. Palmer Lake Fire Chief John Vincent said that he had done a partial inspection and had some fire safety concerns but that he had been denied access to a portion of the building. He also said the PPRBD was unable to complete an inspection because it did not have current plans for the building, which had been substantially changed since it last had a certificate of occupancy in 1999. The board voted 3-2 to close TLCA until the issues were resolved. Photo by Jackie Burhans.

Request for vacation of ROW denied

During the public hearing at the Jan. 25 meeting, the board considered a request to vacate a town ROW on Petite Avenue. In his application to vacate, resident Brad Akers asked the town to eliminate Petite Avenue completely and to change the address of his house to an address on Verano Avenue. His application argued Petite Avenue is too steep to ever be developed as a road.

At the hearing, Akers said he thought his request complied with the town’s master plan.

Jim Brinkman, a surveyor working for David Sanchez, who owns property adjacent to Akers’, opposed the vacation until all options for access to Sanchez’s property were investigated. Claudia Beltran, another of Akers’ neighbors, spoke in favor of the vacation.

Collins pointed out the Planning Commission had voted against approval of the vacation. Krob said the town was under no obligation to give up the right of way and said the town should consider if the right of way could be of use in the future. A vacation would mean the town’s property would be gone forever.

The board voted unanimously to deny the request to vacate.

Liability issue complicates MOU

Krob told the board that the MOU between the town and ATL would need to address the liability questions arising from the presence of a town water line under the pickleball courts that ATL proposed to build. The MOU drafted by the town staff asks ATL to provide $20,000 to be placed in the Water Fund to cover the costs of any repairs needed to the water line. Collins said the intent was to release ATL from any further liability if repairs were needed in the future.

Farr and Ball questioned whether $20,000 was enough to cover potential repairs, and Ehrhardt asked for some insight into the amount from an engineer.

Stern proposed tabling the MOU discussion so that more information could be gathered, and the board voted to do so.

Public comment policy updated

Krob related to the board an incident at a board meeting in Wheat Ridge when a participant in a virtual meeting, using an assumed name, made a series of antisemitic and racist public comments. That prompted Krob to update Palmer Lake’s policy on public comments to prevent a similar misuse of the public comment portion of board meetings by adding that comments on items not on the agenda must be made in person or by email 24 hours before the meeting.

The town’s policy on public comments includes:

  • A speaker must be recognized by the mayor before speaking and should state their name and address for the record.
  • Comments must be addressed to the board as a whole and not to individual staff members.
  • Each speaker is limited to three minutes and can only speak once per agenda item.
  • The mayor has the discretion to limit the time or number of speakers on an agenda item and can require a speaker to leave the meeting if they do not observe decorum.
  • The mayor may call for a recess if lack of decorum interferes with the orderly conduct of the meeting.
  • The complete policy can be found in the board packet here: mccmeetings.blob.core.usgovcloudapi.net/palmerlake-pubu/MEET-Packet-a147a276fa7549728d977d0b2e8cb86d.pdf.

Mosely objected to the three-minute limit on public comments. Stern pointed out that the mayor had discretion to permit longer comments if necessary.

The board voted unanimously in favor of Resolution 12-2024, which adopts the updated policy.

Conditional use granted for Slap Shot Hockey

At the Jan. 11 meeting, a public hearing was held on a request from Nicole Tahmindjis for a conditional use in a C2 zone. Tahmindjis said she intended to open Slap Shot Hockey Lanes at 870-872 Highway 105. The business would provide a location for hockey players to do dryland training and practice shooting pucks using lanes that would return the pucks to the shooter, measure the speed of the shots and include special effects.

There were no comments from the public. Krob said Tahmindjis had met all requirements for the permit and the board voted unanimously to approve it.

Board and commission appointments

The board approved a set of resolutions at the Jan. 11 meeting that re-appointed volunteers to board and commissions:

  • Resolution 3-2024, which re-appoints Susan Miner, Lindsey Zapalac, and Tim Caves to the Planning Commission.
  • Resolution 4-2024, which re-appoints Reid Wiecks, Cindy Powell, Kevin Magner, and Garcia Woods to the Parks and Trails Commission.
  • Resolution 5-2024, which re-appoints Havenar to represent the town on the Pikes Peak Area Council of Governments.
  • Resolution 6-2024, which re-appoints Bob Miner, Eddie Kinney, and Kevin Dreher to the Board of Adjustments.

The board also voted in favor of resolutions to retain Green & Associates as the town’s auditor and to authorize the Parks and Trails Commission to continue its work on the Elephant Rock trail.

Executive sessions

The Jan. 11 meeting ended with an executive session for the board to receive legal advice concerning public comments and hate speech.

The Jan. 25 meeting ended with an executive session to determine negotiation strategies for the sale of town property and to receive legal advice concerning a Police Department complaint.

No actions were taken following either executive session.

**********

The next regular board meetings are scheduled for Feb. 8 and 22. 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