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Articles from Vol. 26 No. 3 - March 7, 2026

Vol. 26 No. 3 – March 7, 2026 – Photos

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Palmer Lake Board of Trustees, Feb. 12 and 26 – Board vacancies filled; planner resigns

Highlights

  • Beeson and Marble were appointed to the Palmer Lake Town Board in a unanimous and split vote after interviews for two vacant seats, with Beeson sworn in first and Marble taking oath later.
  • Community Matters Institute terminated its planning contract with the town, effective March 13, after addressing allegations from residents about invoicing without contracts and possible double payments.
  • Buc-ee's annexation withdrawal remained under consideration; the board moved to continue the withdrawal process until its March 26 meeting, pending legal guidance.
  • The town restarted the search for a permanent town administrator, with discussion on temporarily assisting the interim administrator and restarting the recruitment through Strategic Government Resources.
  • The town also moved forward with selecting a permanent town attorney, extending the application deadline and arranging firm presentations before a March 12 workshop and a vote on March 12 or 26.
  • The board addressed questions about checks and invoices, clarifying a printer error and additional IT-related payments, and noted no action followed the February 26 executive session on the Moseley v. Town of Palmer Lake lawsuit.

By James Howald and Jackie Burhans

In February, the Palmer Lake Board of Trustees (PLBOT) interviewed four candidates for the board seats vacated by the departures of Michael Boyett and Tim Caves. Interim Town Administrator Glen Smith announced that Community Matters Institute (CMI), a nonprofit that has been acting as the town’s planner for years on matters like the master plan and the municipal code, had terminated its contract with the town in response to allegations of fraud by Trustee Roger Moseley and resident Martha Brodzik.

The board continued to struggle with its response to Buc-ee’s withdrawal of its annexation application, and with its efforts to hire a new town administrator and a new town attorney. In her report to the board, Town Clerk Erica Romero answered questions about checks posed by Trustee Atis Jurka and Moseley. A vacancy on the Parks and Trails Commission was filled. The board meeting on Feb. 26 was preceded by an executive session for the board to receive legal advice from counsel representing the town regarding the lawsuit Roger Moseley v. Town of Palmer Lake.

Michael Beeson and John Marble appointed to board

At a workshop on Feb. 12, the board interviewed Michael Beeson, DéNaje Ferguson, John Hartzog, and John Marble for two vacant board seats. Their applications for appointment are available on the town’s website here: https://tinyurl.com/mrysbvyp.

Above: At the Feb. 12 meeting, the Palmer Lake Board of Trustees unanimously voted to appoint Michael Beeson to fill a vacancy on the board. His term ends in December 2026 and will be filled at the next regular election in November. At the interview held at a workshop before the regular meeting, Beeson emphasized his military career and time on the town’s Planning Commission. Town Clerk Erica Romero administered the oath of office to Beeson. From left are Romero and Beeson. Photo by James Howald.

Beeson emphasized his military career and his time on the town’s Planning Commission. Ferguson said that after working as a nurse assistant, he had switched to software engineering and was the technical lead on a large software project. Hartzog said he had been a nuclear submarine officer and an energy executive. Marble said he was studying political science in college. Beeson and Marble were previously considered for seats on the board.

Above: At the Feb. 12 meeting, the Palmer Lake Board of Trustees unanimously voted to appoint John Marble to fill a vacancy on the board. His term ends in December 2026 and will be filled at the next regular election in November. At the interview held at a workshop before the regular meeting, Mable said he was studying political science in college. Town Clerk Erica Romero administered the oath of office to Marble. From left are Romero and Marble. Photo by James Howald.

At the board meeting that followed the workshop, Trustee Beth Harris suggested changing the way the board appoints new members. After some discussion, the board could not agree on a new process and decided to vote on candidates one by one until the seats were filled, as they had done in the past. Harris nominated Beeson, who was appointed by a unanimous vote of Trustees Tony Beltran, Harris, Moseley, Atis Jurka, and Mayor Dennis Stern. Harris nominated Marble for the second seat; he was appointed with Harris, Moseley and Jurka voting in favor and Beltran and Stern voting no. Romero administered the oath of office to Beeson and Marble, who took their seats on the board after they were sworn in.

CMI terminates contract as planner

During public comments at the Feb. 12 board meeting, resident Martha Brodzik said she had investigated invoices paid by the town and had found some that did not have an associated contract. She faulted the town for paying invoices for which there was no contract. She added that she found one invoice to CMI that she alleged had been paid twice. She questioned the ethics of CMI for accepting double payment and went on to argue that the town had too many professional service contracts and should do more work on its own behalf.

At the same meeting, during the board report portion, Moseley returned to the topic of CMI, criticized it for accepting payments without a contract, and said if it was “double paid,” that was theft. Moseley asked for a hearing on CMI’s work for the town.

This question came to a head at the Feb. 26 meeting, when Smith presented CMI’s response to Brodzik and Moseley’s allegations. CMI’s response included notification that CMI would no longer serve the town, effective March 13.

In that response, CMI included transcripts of Brodzik’s and Moseley’s comments, highlighting two accusations: that it was paid $12,787.50 twice and hid the overpayment, and that it billed the town for uncontracted services. CMI denied both charges. In terms of the overpayment, Robert C. Haywood, CMI chief operating officer, said the original check for invoice PL 25-04 was never received, payment was cancelled by Palmer Lake Accounting Clerk Kathy Neal, and a new check was issued.

Haywood cited the check numbers in his response and included emails documenting the lost check and the reissued check. He noted that although the matter was resolved 62 days past the due date, CMI did not charge the town a late fee. Regarding the lack of a contract for some invoices, Haywood said CMI has operated under four contracts with the town and included as attachments the two contracts in question. CMI’s response is available in a supplemental packet on the town’s website here: https://www.townofpalmerlake.com/media/21121.

Smith cautioned the board to be careful what they say from the dais. He asked them to come to the staff with questions before making accusations. Smith said he had received good service from CMI, which had been overwhelmed with Colorado Open Records Request Act (CORA) requests concerning Brodzik and Moseley’s allegations. The town was now faced with the need for a Request for Proposal process to find a new planner, Smith said. He added that the town got work done by CMI at half the cost a private planner would charge and might have to amend its budget to account for the higher cost.

Several residents rose to criticize the board for its handling of this and other matters. Paul Olivier, who served two terms as mayor, said the current board had conflicts of interest. For example, two board members had received help from the nonprofit Integrity Matters in their campaigns for seats on the board and had later voted not to pursue the payment of court costs from that organization. Olivier also mentioned the fact that Moseley has filed two lawsuits against the town. “I see the town in the worst shape I’ve ever seen in the 50 years I’ve been here,” Olivier said.

Brodzik said she thought Smith’s comments were directed at her and said that when she asked the staff questions, she typically did not get answers. Susan Miner, who served three terms on the board, praised CMI and its Executive Director Barbara Cole for Cole’s contributions to the master plan and the municipal code. Rich Kuehster, who served as fire chief and trustee and is currently on the Planning Commission, said he was concerned that the town is without a lawyer and a planner.

Moseley said he had told Romero his focus was on the invoicing process, not on CMI. He said the town did not follow its process for annotating voided checks. He added he believed the town had exceeded the payment amounts specified in “not-to-exceed contracts.” He claimed staff had discovered this and decided not to advise the board. Smith answered that he believed the prior administration had approved the overages on the contracts Moseley had mentioned, and he cited Moseley’s unwillingness to come to staff for answers, preferring to submit time-consuming CORA requests instead. Their exchange became heated, and Moseley again insisted the town is making payments for which there are no contracts and is not being properly reimbursed by contractors. Moseley said Romero is responsible for payments and Smith is responsible for contracts.

In response to Moseley’s remarks, Romero said she did not agree with his summary of events and was always happy to answer questions from the board members. She said she has been advised to speak to the entire board and avoid having “one-off” conversations with individual board members. She added that until the town had a lawyer, she thought it best to provide answers in a public meeting.

Nikki McDonald, who served two terms as mayor, said the town was turning against the board.

Miner returned to the podium to say, “We have sought out legal counsel so we can ensure you are making decisions that are to the benefit of Palmer Lake, not Woodmoor, and not Broadmoor.” During the meeting, she was sitting with former board members Shana Ball and Amy Hutson, former mayor Glant Havenar, and Buc-ee’s lobbyist Mark Waller.

Board continues consideration of Buc-ee’s withdrawal

Buc-ee’s withdrew its annexation application to the town on Feb. 4. At the Feb. 12 meeting, Stern said the board could not accept the withdrawal without the advice of an attorney and moved to continue consideration of the withdrawal until the board’s next meeting on March 26. Moseley asked to add to the motion the stipulation that all work on the Buc-ee’s annexation should cease until the town has an attorney, and Stern accepted the addition. Stern’s motion passed with Beeson, Beltran, Moseley, Jurka, and Stern voting yes. Harris voted no. Jurka moved to continue the Buc-ee’s rezoning hearing until March 26, and his motion passed unanimously.

At the Feb. 26 meeting, Smith told the board that the law firm of Dietz and Davis P.C. had agreed to represent the town in the conclusion of the withdrawal of the Buc-ee’s annexation application. The firm would not address any other legal matters for the town, Smith said.

Search for town administrator restarted

At the Feb. 26 meeting, Romero reminded the board it had requested her to pause the work with Strategic Government Resources (SGR) to find a permanent town administrator to replace Glen Smith, who is doing the job on an interim basis in addition to leading the police department. All candidates were released, Romero said, and SGR was waiting for the board to update the recruitment brochure and for authorization to proceed with recruitment. SGR advised Romero that the recruitment effort was more likely to be successful once the board is stable and all active lawsuits and recalls are settled. She asked for direction from the board.

Moseley said he asked at the previous board meeting for volunteers to act as town administrator temporarily, replacing Smith, “until we get this all straightened out. He said he had one volunteer willing to accept the role temporarily and one who would only be available permanently. He added he thought the proposed salary was too high. He moved to open an opportunity for a temporary administrator.

Stern pointed out that Smith was already serving as an interim town administrator and suggested Moseley’s motion was based on Moseley’s adversarial relationship with Smith. Moseley denied Stern’s point and said Smith had made mistakes and was subject to dismissal.

Smith asked to see Moseley’s justification for his opinion in writing. He urged the board not to make the same mistake it made in dismissing Scot Krob as the town’s attorney before a replacement had been found.

Beltran said he would not second Moseley’s motion, preferring to remain with the procedure in place.

Miner said adding another “disorganized” person to the mix was not a good idea and pointed out that since the recruitment issue was on the agenda as a discussion item, no motion could be made.

Stern pointed out that there were still active lawsuits underway, and he has been threatened with recall, so the search should not be reopened at present.

Harris said she favored restarting the search for an administrator. Beeson agreed.

Jurka suggested that since the staff was shorthanded, it might make sense to find someone to help Smith. Stern pointed out that Moseley intended to replace Smith, not get him help.

Romero said sometimes the board’s expectations were “a little unrealistic” but asked the board to follow the process with SGR.

Resident Bill McDonald asked the board if a trustee with pending lawsuits against the town, that is, Moseley, should be allowed to vote on any of the town’s business. Several in the audience answered “No!” Moseley responded that he could vote because he had no “pecuniary interest in either lawsuit.” Stern said he had asked the town’s previous attorney, Scot Krob, if Moseley could vote, and Krob said he could but might have to recuse himself on some matters.

After some additional, equally heated discussion, the board directed Romero to restart the search.

Progress on permanent town attorney

At the Feb. 12 meeting, Smith, who has been managing the search for a town attorney to replace Krob, told the board that trying to find an interim and a permanent attorney at the same time was confusing potential candidates, and staff recommended abandoning the search for an attorney to serve on a temporary basis. He recommended extending the window to apply to Feb. 20 and holding a workshop to interview candidates. He said he had not found anyone willing to do the job on an interim basis.

Harris and Moseley asked Smith to name the law firms interested in serving the town on a permanent basis; Smith refused, saying making the names public was not in the best interest of the Request for Proposal (RFP) process because board members had contacted the firms, which biased the impartiality of the process. Harris said she felt the staff was not following the board’s direction.

Beltran moved to extend the RFP application deadline to Feb. 20, to bring information about all applicants to the Feb. 26 board meeting, and to end the search for an interim attorney. The motion passed with Beeson, Beltran, Jurka and Marble voting yes and Harris and Moseley voting no.

At the Feb. 26 meeting, Smith brought the board the names of three law firms willing to represent the town: Zuckerman Legal, JVAM PLLC, and Wyatt Hamilton Findlay. Smith said staff was reviewing their applications and would give the board recommendations five days before the board’s next meeting on March 12, so trustees would have time to review. Smith also suggested a workshop at 4:30 p.m. before the March 12 board meeting, at which the firms would present to the board.

Jurka made a motion to hold a special meeting on March 3 to interview the firms and select a finalist, but there was no second, and he withdrew the motion.

Romero pointed out that an attorney serves as a buffer between staff and the board when personnel issues arise.

The board directed staff to proceed with arranging a workshop with the law firms on March 12 and a vote to select a firm at the board meeting on the same date. Jurka and Moseley objected; Beeson, Beltran, Harris, Marble, and Stern agreed.

Concerns about checks resolved

In her report on Feb. 26, Romero answered questions about checks raised by Jurka and Moseley at the Feb. 12 meeting. She said a set of 21 voided checks that Moseley inquired about resulted from a printer error. Her research showed a check written to Buc-ee’s was a refund for overpayment by Buc-ee’s. She also noted that two additional checks had been written to the town’s IT provider to cover compliance-related work that fell outside the boundaries of that provider’s typical monthly service.

Ferguson appointed to Parks and Trails

Ferguson accepted an appointment to the Parks and Trails Commission at the Feb. 26 meeting.

Above: At the Feb. 24 meeting of the Palmer Lake Board of Trustees, the board unanimously approved Resolution 16-2026 to appoint DéNaje Ferguson to the Parks and Trails Commission for a two-year term. Commission members may enlist volunteer work groups to assist in developing and maintaining public areas of the town, including parks, trails, and green space. Ferguson was unanimously recommended for appointment by the current members of the Parks Commission. He said he was interested in making the parks more amenable to young adults. Town Clerk Erica Romero administered the oath of office to Ferguson. From left are Romero and Ferguson. Photo by Jackie Burhans

Executive session

The Feb. 26 meeting was preceded by an executive session for the board to receive legal advice about Roger Moseley v. Town of Palmer Lake. No action was taken following the executive session, but Stern mentioned in the regular board meeting that the lawsuit asked the court to make a preliminary injunction to remove him as mayor and to invalidate board actions taken since his appointment in June. Stern said the court ruled that it would not make that injunction.

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The next regular board meetings are scheduled for March 12 and 26. 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 Planning Commission, Feb. 11 – Conexus proposes 158 apartments and townhomes on 23 acres

Highlights

  • The Monument Planning Commission introduced Jenna Gorney as the new senior planner, bringing ten years of experience from Pennsylvania, Utah, and western Colorado to help manage growth.
  • Conexus Lot One proposes a 23-acre, 158-unit residential subdivision as part of a larger mixed-use development on Old Denver Highway, with nearby areas planned for commercial and industrial uses.
  • The project, approved in December 2025, includes two-bedroom apartments and larger townhomes, aiming to serve "missing middle" workers earning 80% to 120% of area median income, with ground breaking targeted in 2027.
  • The development schedule includes a March formal submittal, a focus on trail connections to the Santa Fe Regional Trail, and a realignment of Old Denver Road adjacent to the site.
  • Density is 354 units for Lot One, below the master-plan limit of 399, and to maintain scale, the maximum apartment height is proposed at about 41.5 feet instead of the 75 feet allowed.
  • The project will be served by Triview Water and Sanitation District with a renewable water source, and school impacts are said to be modest with potential fees in lieu of land; a public outreach process for renaming the bypassed Old Denver Road is planned for early March.

By Janet Sellers

The Monument Planning Commission on Feb. 11 introduced Jenna Gorney, the town’s new senior planner. She brings a decade of experience from Pennsylvania, Utah, and western Colorado, and expressed her enthusiasm for helping manage Monument’s growth.

Development includes 158-unit residential subdivision on 23 acres

The primary focus of the meeting was a presentation regarding Conexus Lot One, a proposed multi-family and townhome development. This “pre-application” sharing of information was intended to gather initial feedback before a formal submittal planned for March.

Conexus Lot One is part of a large, proposed mixed-use development located in the 80132 area on the west side of I-25, situated between Old Denver Road and Interstate 25 and east of the Buffalo Valley Path area in Monument. The project features a 23-acre, 158-unit residential subdivision along that strip of land. Nearby areas are planned for commercial/industrial use.

Above: Conexus Lot One Project site map.

The development, approved by the Monument Town Council in December 2025, includes single-family detached homes. Other parts of the broader Conexus development have plans for high-density residential and commercial development. The site includes plans for trail connections for the Santa Fe Regional Trail and is adjacent to a newly realigned section of Old Denver Road. Construction is referred to in town planning documents as Lot 1, Conexus Filing No. 2, and it is expected to break ground with completion targets starting in 2027.

Mark Foster of Hillpointe LLC explained that the project targets the “missing middle” group of essential workers who earn between 80% and 120% of the average median income. The goal of the development is to provide attainable housing that “allows residents to establish themselves in the community and save for future homeownership.” These are two-bedroom apartment units with somewhat larger townhomes. Andrea Barlow of N.E.S. provided a timeline of the property, noting it was originally zoned for industrial use in 1981. She highlighted that the current plan resulted from extensive collaboration with the “Save Monument” community group to create a balanced mix of uses that neighbors could support.

Above: Artist renderings of the apartment buildings and the front and back of townhouses. Courtesy the Town of Monument.

Old Denver Road realignment progresses

Eric Chekal of Schuck-Chapman reported on the construction of the “New Denver Road.” Utilities are nearly complete, and curb and gutter work is slated to begin in March, with paving expected in late spring. To minimize disruption, major intersection work is being scheduled for after the school year ends.

Density and height reductions

The proposed development for Lot One includes 354 units, which is fewer than the 399 units permitted by the master plan. While a building height of 75 feet is allowed, the applicant is proposing a maximum height of about 41.5 feet for the apartments to maintain a more appropriate scale.

The “Missing Middle” vs. Industrial Reality

The hearing then centered on the “Missing Middle”—housing for those earning 80% to 120% of the Area Median Income ($90k for a family of four). Mark Foster, vice president of Development at Hillpointe, emphasized his point that these non-subsidized rentals would allow families to save $25,000 a year compared to the high cost of local homeownership.

However, the debate shifted from the math to the lifestyle when discussing the units facing Old Denver Road. The developer presented a vision of a “front porch” design with no gates or barriers, intended to connect residents to the community and local traditions like the Fourth of July parade. Commissioner Baumer challenged this “open” concept, citing concerns over industrial growth and increased traffic. She emphasized that as the nearby industrial complex expands, residents will likely want a barrier between their private lives and the encroaching commercial activity, regardless of the 25mph speed limit.

Renewable water strategy served by Triview

In response to commissioners’ questions, the developers clarified that the project will be served by Triview Water and Sanitation District. The district utilizes the Northern Delivery System, meaning the project will be supported by a renewable water source rather than relying solely on groundwater.

School capacity impacts

The commission discussed potential impacts on School District 38. Foster noted that multi-family units typically generate fewer students than single-family homes and that the district generally prefers “fees in lieu of land” because they already have dedicated school sites prepared for future capacity.

Old Denver Road Renaming Initiative

Town staff announced a planned public outreach process to rename the bypassed section of “old” Old Denver Road. The initiative aims to bring the community together to select a permanent name for that local road segment, and indications are that this will occur in early March.

Comprehensive Plan update

The staff reported that a new grant from the state Department of Local Affairs (DOLA) will fund the completion of the Monument Comprehensive Plan. A summary of the visioning process is expected by mid-March, and that will guide the formal drafting of the new plan.

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The Planning Commission usually meets on the second Wednesday of each month. The next meeting is scheduled for March 11. For further information on commission meetings, please visit www.townofmonument.org/263/planningpcommission-commission-board-of-adjustment or contact 719-884-8028. A recording with a transcript of each meeting is also available.

Janet Sellers can be reached at JanetSellers@ocn.me.

Other Monument Planning Commission articles

Buc-ee’s applies to El Paso County to expand parcel

Highlights

  • Vertex Consulting Services, on behalf of Interstate Properties Ltd., applied to El Paso County for a boundary line adjustment to convey about 11 acres to Monument Ridge West LLC, potentially expanding the Buc-ee's parcel to about 53 acres.
  • The plan relies on county rules that allow an administrative boundary adjustment if it does not change the water supply for either lot. The application is available for viewing online.
  • Public opposition has been voiced, including a legal objection from Integrity Matters' chief counsel alleging water-supply changes and conflicts of interest; if persuaded, the county may refer the matter to a Board of County Commissioners hearing.
  • The Town of Monument has initiated a flagpole annexation process for a portion of Beacon Lite Road and the water-tank parcel, which could influence future water-service arrangements for Buc-ee's.
  • If the boundary line adjustment is approved and if Monument annexes the water-tank parcel, the Buc-ee's parcel would then adjoin Town of Monument property, triggering a potential opportunity for annexation.
  • The Monument Town Council has enacted an ordinance prohibiting water service to properties north of the Palmer Divide, a factor that may affect Buc-ee's access to town water.

By John Heiser

In early January, Vertex Consulting Services, representing Robert Ferguson, managing partner and president of Interstate Properties Ltd., applied to El Paso County for approval of a property boundary adjustment to convey about 11 acres to Monument Ridge West LLC, owners of the parcel proposed for the controversial Buc-ee’s travel center. The application, if approved, would expand the Buc-ee’s parcel to about 53 acres.

The parcel being conveyed lies south of the Monument Ridge West parcel. The southern edge of the parcel being conveyed is adjacent to the parcel containing the Town of Monument water tank.

The application was made under El Paso County Land Development code section 7.2.2.E.4, which permits the action to be approved by the director of the Planning and Community Development Department provided certain criteria are satisfied. Among those criteria is a requirement that “The boundary line adjustment will not result in a change in the water supply for either lot.” The application can be viewed at https://tinyurl.com/buc-eesboundary.

Numerous public comments have been submitted opposing approval of the boundary line adjustment. In addition, Kat Gayle, Integrity Matters’ chief legal counsel, filed a letter objecting to administrative approval of the boundary line adjustment, alleging, among other issues, potential changes to the water supply and conflicts of interest. If the county is persuaded by those arguments, the decision on the boundary line adjustment would be referred to a hearing before the Board of County Commissioners. The public comments and Integrity Matters’ letter can be found under the “Additional Documents” section at https://tinyurl.com/buc-eesboundary.

On Feb. 2, the Town of Monument has started a process to use a “flagpole annexation” of a portion of Beacon Lite Road and the parcel containing the town’s water tank. See the Monument Town Council article on page < 8 >.

If the county approves the boundary line adjustment and the town annexes the parcel containing the tank, the expanded Buc-ee’s parcel would be adjacent to Town of Monument property. Per state statute C.R.S. § 31-12-105(1)(e.3) regarding flagpole annexations, an opportunity for annexation must be offered to owners of abutting parcels under the same conditions as the initial annexation. If Buc-ee’s were to apply for annexation to Monument, the town would be required to prepare an impact report and hold hearings to approve or disapprove the annexation.

On Feb. 17, the Monument Town Council approved an ordinance which prohibits the town from providing water service to properties located north of the Palmer Divide. Depending on the exact path of the Palmer Divide, that ordinance might or might not prevent Buc-ee’s from obtaining water from the town. See the Monument Town Council article on page < 8 >.

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John Heiser can be contacted at johnheiser@ocn.me.

Other El Paso County articles

Monument Town Council, Feb. 2 and 17 – Single-family home construction drops; commercial building jumps

Highlights

  • The Pike Peak Regional Building Department's 2025 report shows single-family home construction in Monument fell 27%, with 152 residential permits issued across neighborhoods: Jackson Creek 56, Home Place Ranch 40, Monument Junction 39, Cloverleaf 15, Willow Springs 2.
  • Commercial construction in El Paso County surged in 2025, while regional apartment completions permitted more than two years ago tripled.
  • PPRBD conducted 266,077 inspections with 55 inspectors, averaging about 1,064 inspections per day, and continues manual roof inspections instead of using drones.
  • The Monument Town Council approved annexation proceedings for Beacon Lite Road and the water tank site, with a public hearing set for March 16 and a 45-day window for adjoining property owners to join.
  • A proposed restriction would bar municipal water to developments north of the Palmer Divide to protect renewable water sources, avoiding the 1041 permit process.
  • The council noted solid December sales tax collections but faces enforcement action on several delinquent businesses, while planning to update the investment policy and pursue potential BUILD and state grants for transportation and infrastructure.

By Marlene Brown

Summarizing the Pikes Peak Regional Building Department (PPRBD) 2025 Report, Greg Dingrando, chief public information officer for the PPRBD, reported to the Monument Town Council (MTC) on Feb. 2 that single-family home construction in the Monument area dropped 27% in 2025, with 152 residential construction permits issued. The breakdown by neighborhood is as follows:
Jackson Creek: 56
Home Place Ranch: 40
Monument Junction: 39
Cloverleaf: 15
Willow Springs: 2

There was a major boom in commercial construction in El Paso County in 2025, Dingrando said. New apartment completions that were permitted more than two years ago tripled across the region. PPRBD had a total of 266,077 inspections among 55 department inspectors for an average of 1,064 inspections a day. Dingrando noted that PPRBD continues to perform manual roof inspections rather than using drones, so it can physically check for proper shingle installation.

Annexation of Beacon Lite Road and water tank site

The MTC approved authorization for Town Manager Madeline VanDenHoek to file annexation proceedings for the town’s water tank site and a portion of Beacon Lite Road. This “flagpole annexation” is similar to the process used for Old Denver Road. The next step in the annexation process is for the MTC to determine that the petition complies, and a public hearing has been set for March 16 at the regular MTC meeting. Adjoining property owners will receive a letter from the town explaining the process and noting they will have an opportunity to join in the annexation within 45 days if they so choose.

Above: The location of the proposed Beacon Lite Water Tank Annexation is shown in red. Map courtesy the Town of Monument.

Proposed restriction on water flow north of the Divide

The MTC discussed a draft ordinance that would prohibit municipal water from being provided to developments north of the Palmer Divide. This proactive measure is intended to protect the town’s renewable water sources and avoid the expensive and time-consuming 1041 permit process required to move water into the South Platte River basin.

Proposed improvements to Jackson Creek Parkway. The widening project involves expanding Jackson Creek Parkway from one lane in each direction to two lanes in each direction, extending the four-lane configuration from Higby Road north to the intersection with Highway 105. The project also includes drainage improvements, median landscaping, pedestrian and bike pathways, and “Gateway” treatments. Assuming funding can be secured, contractor selection is projected to be completed by April 2027 with construction to be completed by Jan. 2028. Map courtesy the Town of Monument.

Resident complains about above-ground electric fence

A resident reported that his neighbor had installed an above-ground electric fence on his property’s fence line. He had made a complaint on the town’s website more than two months ago and had not heard from anyone. The MTC and staff acknowledged the complaint and noted that a new code enforcement officer would be starting within the week and would be investigating the matter.

A Taste of Tri-Lakes Cares

Haley Chapin, executive director of Tri-Lakes Cares, invited the MTC to save the date for A Taste of Tri-Lakes Cares on May 13. It’s an annual fundraising event that highlights the area’s restaurants and chefs. Tickets are on sale at https://tri-lakescares.org/events/taste-of-tri-lakes-cares.

Regional training for elected officials

Town Manager Madeline VanDenHoek discussed an event in the planning stages to host a regional meeting and educational sessions for elected officials and clerks from El Paso, Teller, and Fremont counties. The first event would be a mixer in Colorado Springs, slated for late March, to foster inter-municipal cooperation among the counties.

Q4 financial performance

The quarterly budget report revealed that the town ended 2025 with total expenditures at 83% of the budgeted amount. Planning fees were lower than anticipated, leading the town to seek a third-party evaluation of its fee schedule.

2025 investment returns

The town reported earning nearly $1.5 million in total investment income for 2025. The MTC plans to review and update the town’s investment policy in the coming months to ensure it remains current with market conditions.

Sales tax delinquency enforcement

Finance staff reported record sales tax collections for December filings yet noted that three local businesses have been issued notices of final determination due to repeated failures to remit collected taxes. One business has reportedly failed to file since 2021, and the town is prepared to take further legal action for businesses that remain non-compliant. The town is trying to work with the businesses and come to an equitable solution without having to go the final route.

Condolences for Kiowa mayor

The MTC formally expressed its condolences following the unexpected passing of Teresa Howard, the mayor of Kiowa.

Executive session

The MTC voted 7-0 to enter into an executive session to receive legal advice from the town attorney regarding a zoning enforcement matter.

On Feb. 17, Division Chief for Community Risk Reduction Jonathan Bradley of the Monument Fire District (MFD) presented the new Wildlife Resiliency and Fire Code. Fire mitigation codes need to be updated, he said. MFD has adopted the new fire codes and is now going to the Town of Monument and El Paso County for their adoption of the codes. They are working with the Monument Planning Commission, which is updating the Building Codes manual and is adding the new fire codes simultaneously. The new codes will go into effect on July 1. The fire codes are for new construction and major remodels. They include wildlife code requirements for non-combustible fencing within 8 feet of a new home and the removal of vegetation within a 5-foot “defensible space.”

Impact fees study recommendations

Impact fees are used for capital asset purchases, such as patrol cars and other equipment, but not for maintenance of the assets. A firm recommended a new Police Impact Fee charged to building developers at the time of final approval on new lots and new developments.

The MTC authorized the Finance Department to apply for a federal BUILD grant for funding Jackson Creek Parkway, which has been estimated at $5 million to complete. The Council approved Resolution 13-2026 to develop a Master Transportation Plan and to apply for a $200,000 state Department of Local Affairs grant.

The MTC approved an increase in Water Rights Fees. Resolution 11-2026 raised fees in lieu of water rights and Resolution 12-2026 accepted groundwater from new developments. This policy protects the town’s water portfolio, requiring developers to pay a fee for water that might require future court adjudication.

Chamber of Commerce lease

The MTC approved a short-term one-year lease with the Tri-Lakes Chamber of Commerce for $1 per year, allowing for a transition year for the Chamber to prepare for future rent. There is a desire among the MTC members to sell the property or generate revenue. There are maintenance liability concerns about why the town remains responsible for building repairs that exceed $5,000. Staff clarified that the lease includes a provision to terminate the agreement rather than pay for such significant improvements.

Executive Session

The MTC moved into executive session regarding objections to Buc-ee’s request for a lot line adjustment. The Council requested that such changes not be administrative but require public hearings and greater scrutiny.

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Regular meetings are typically held on the first and third Monday of each month at 6:30 p.m. at the Town Hall, 645 Beacon Lite Road, Monument. If the meeting falls on a holiday, the meeting will be held the following Tuesday. See townofmonument.org for agendas and supporting documents.

Marlene Brown can be reached at marlenebrown@ocn.me.

Other Monument Town Council articles

D38 Parent and Community Advisory Committee, Feb. 10 – Update on Priority 3, Valuing Our People; introduction to Lewis-Palmer High School; discussion about report to board

Highlights

  • The meeting focused on Lewis-Palmer High School programs, including Snacks and Solutions with the principal, Ranger Round Up for incoming freshmen, student-led tours, Ranger Connection Center, Ranger Tutor Center with over 4,000 tutoring sessions since 2021, painted senior parking spots, and Responsible Rangers study hall exemptions for high GPA students.
  • The Colorado Department of Education-recognized Student Council and gifted/talented students with a personal learning plan and e-portfolio were highlighted as part of student initiatives and innovative staff work in adaptive PE, music, and building trades.
  • Board liaison Dr. Patti Shank explained how to view livestreams of meetings and noted that an additional board member will attend each committee meeting to improve board-committee communication.
  • PCAC co-chairs Renee Butler and Kirsten Zook stressed the need for timely reporting to the board, asked for clarity on the Financial Transparency Committee, and suggested term limits and revised co-chair selection to broaden representation.
  • Human Resources updates under District Priority 3 emphasized staff retention, recognition of staff efforts, and resources alignment, with a positive view of staff pride and impact on students and the community.
  • The next PCAC meeting is April 14 at Prairie Winds Elementary, with a 5:30 tour and 6–8 p.m. meeting, and March has no meeting.

By Harriet Halbig

The Lewis-Palmer D38 Parent and Community Advisory Committee (PCAC) met at Lewis-Palmer High School on Feb. 10, following a special meeting of the Board of Education that morning.

Principal Jeffrey Zick, in his first year at that location, spoke of his own background and several unique programs at the school. Among the programs are:

  • Snacks and Solutions, where students have lunch with the principal and discuss school issues.
  • Ranger Round Up, a program for incoming freshmen in May, when they can see where their classes will be held.
  • Student-led tours for those entering the district and those deciding between Lewis-Palmer High School and Palmer Ridge.
  • Ranger Connection Center to familiarize incoming students with clubs and other extracurricular activities.
  • Ranger Tutor Center, where students tutor peers. Since 2021, there have been over 4,000 tutoring sessions.
  • Painted senior parking spots.
  • Responsible Rangers—those with a 3.75 or higher grade point average get a study hall off. Starting the second semester of freshman year.

The school’s Student Council was recognized by the Colorado Department of Education. Gifted/talented students develop their own advanced learning plan with a course planning guide, a separate study hall, independent study for juniors and seniors, and a student-developed e-portfolio that includes a resume and showcases the student’s best work.

Several staff members also were recognized for their innovative work in adaptive physical education, music education, and building trades.

Students conducted a tour of the building before the meeting.

Board of Education liaison report

Board liaison Dr. Patti Shank reported on the board meeting held that morning. She explained how members of the committee could view livestreams of board meetings on the district website to familiarize themselves with board discussions and decisions.

She also referred to the presentation by PCAC to the board. The primary topic was communication between the committee and the board.

Beginning this school year, an additional member of the board will attend each committee meeting, and at least one committee member will attend each board meeting.

She said that the board wants to be more in touch with the committee due to its diverse representation from all schools and the community.

New board member Ginger Schaaf was also in attendance.

PCAC report to the board

Committee Co-chairs Renee Butler and Kirsten Zook reported on their presentation to the board on the morning of the meeting.

They said they did not wish to wait until the final board meeting of the year to report on committee activities. They said it was important for board members to attend committee meetings to hear unfiltered commentary on the actions of the district. The committee is required by state statute to exist.

Butler and Zook asked what information the board required from the committee and board priorities regarding subjects to be addressed.

Regarding the Financial Transparency Committee, a subcommittee of PCAC, they said they did not understand the structure of the committee and what happens at its meetings.

Zook also commented that outsiders think representation on the committee isn’t broad enough, as many members serve for several years. She said that it is understandable as members wish to serve while their children are in school in the district. A possible remedy would be to impose term limits and to change the process for selecting new co-chairs.

District Priority 3: Valuing Our People

Human Resources Director Michaela Vanderheiden reported on her department’s goals and activities to improve staff responses to recent surveys. Staff retention is a major subject being addressed.

Of primary concern are staff dissatisfaction with their work being recognized and the allocation of resources.

Strong points are staff saying they are proud to say where they work and that they are making a difference in the lives of students and the community.

To view the PowerPoint on this subject, please go to the district website, lewispalmer.org, select family resources, community, district committees, meeting content, and meeting date. This subject was also covered in the January issue of OCN in the article on the Board of Education.

Discussion and sub-committee reports

A member of the Lewis-Palmer High School Building Accountability Committee said the group has discussed the timing of lunches and a cellphone policy. He also said that informing the public about schools should be a priority.

A member of the Financial Transparency Committee reported that they discussed a bond for the construction of the new Home School Enrichment Center, whether individual schools should have a Financial Transparency Committee, and the possible impact of a statewide budget shortfall on schools.

Director of Assessment and Curriculum Dr. Michael Brom spoke of his presentation on assessment to the Special Education Advisory Committee (SEAC) at its last meeting. He said that at the next meeting, there would be a program on higher education opportunities for students with disabilities to attend college. He said that all are welcome to attend the meetings.

Special Education Parent Liaison Michelle Nay said that SEAC meetings are now virtual and to contact her for a link to attend. She also reminded those in attendance of the Aliorum Dei awards coming up in April to recognize students and adults who play a positive role in the lives of students with disabilities.

The Early Childhood Advisory Committee is seeking feedback from parents on what they wish to see in the preschool program.

The Gifted and Talented Leadership Team met recently, and the Colorado Department of Education recently conducted an audit of the district’s G/T program. The program received a favorable review and was recognized as high performing.

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The Parent and Community Advisory Committee meets six times per year. Locations vary. There will not be a meeting in March. The next meeting will be from 6 to 8 p.m. on April 14 at Prairie Winds Elementary School, 790 Kings Deer Pt. E in Monument. A tour of the school will be conducted at 5:30. For information, please contact tmckee@lewispalmer.org.

Harriet Halbig can be reached at harriethalbig@ocn.me.

Other D38 Parent and Community Advisory Committee articles

Monument Academy School Board, Feb. 12 – Board affirms handling of parental grievance, need for code of conduct

Highlights

  • The Monument Academy board held an executive session to address a parental grievance related to student matters and to discuss East Campus facility financing, with no motions taken after reconvening.
  • The board found that grievance policies and procedures were properly followed and discussed potential adoption of a code of conduct to ensure respectful communication between parents and staff.
  • Mid-year dashboards showed progress toward academic goals, with significant gains in DIBELS reading benchmarks and mixed results across NWEA MAP growth and achievement by grade.
  • An Army JROTC program was approved as a prospective option, with funding details including shared instructor salaries and start-up costs, aiming for a 2027 launch and potential eighth-grade eligibility.
  • The board unanimously approved engagement letters for bond refinancing and for a 2026 bonds underwriter, aligning with ongoing capital projects such as track and field construction.
  • The meeting also covered calendar planning for 2026-27, with approval of preschool to homeschool calendars and consideration of alternate start dates or a four-day week.

By Jackie Burhans

The Monument Academy (MA) board met on Feb. 12 with many teachers in attendance and entered an executive session with legal counsel regarding parental grievance on student matters as well as East Campus facility funding. The board heard a mid-year academic dashboard and a proposal to submit for an Army JROTC program. The board also discussed its calendar for upcoming years and approved engagement letters related to its bond refinancing. The board meeting ended with an executive session on the executive director evaluation process with no action taking place afterward.

Parental grievance considered

After its community spotlight and committee reports, the MA board entered a two-hour executive session for advice to negotiators on East Campus facility financing and for legal advice pertaining to a parental grievance related to student matters. A larger than usual audience, which included many teachers, attended the board meeting and stayed to hear the outcome.

Upon returning, President Ryan Graham announced that there would be no motions from the board but that it had determined that grievance polices and procedures were properly followed. He also said the board had heard concerns about the need for respectful communication between parents and staff and would consider adopting a code of conduct to ensure people were engaging with teachers in a respectful manner. The audience loudly applauded his statement.

Mid-year dashboard

Collin Vinchattle, the executive director, shared the mid-year academic and attendance dashboard, expressing his enthusiasm about the outcomes. The dashboard, available at tinyurl.com/ma-boarddocs, shows results from standardized tests taken in the winter, compared with results from the beginning of the year, showing progress toward academic achievement and growth goals.

The Dynamic Indicators of Basic Early Literacy Skills (DIBELS) test is given to students in grades K-5 and shows percentages of students below, at, or above benchmarks in reading proficiency. Vinchattle noted that at the beginning of the year, the composite score of all grades had 176 students at the “above” level, while mid-year showed 265 students at that level. Students who were below or well below benchmarks dropped from 32% to 23%, he noted, saying teachers had done a wonderful job. The report also shows benchmark percentages by grade that show kindergartners improving the most and grades 3-5 continuing to improve rather than plateauing.

The Northwest Evaluation Association (NWEA) Measures of Academic Progress (MAP) measures academic growth in reading, language usage, mathematics and science, tracking student progress. Scores show a percentile rank comparing students to national norms, dividing them into quintiles (1-20, 21-40th percentile, etc.) These tests were taken by all grade levels and represent a new baseline, Vinchattle said. For the composite scores for all grades, math growth and achievement are in the green zone (61-80th percentile); while reading, language usage and science are in the yellow zone (41-60th percentile) for growth and the green zone for achievement. The results are broken out by grade with a mix of yellow and green zone results for growth and achievement by subject. Percentile scores in growth ranged from 44th in sixth-grade math to 84th in kindergarten math. Achievement percentiles ranged from 61st in kindergarten reading to 83rd in eighth-grade math.

Preliminary Scholastic Aptitude Tests (PSAT)/National Merit Scholarship Qualifying Test (NSMQT) scores were used to evaluate high school students on reading/writing and math. Vinchattle said that students take this test in the fall to give them feedback for when they take the SAT test as juniors. He noted that Colorado requires every student to take the SAT while many other states do not. Grades 10-11 showed 86% of students at the “performance” level for reading/writing, but only 44% achieved that level in math, he said, noting that it was an area of focus.

Vinchattle reported on attendance, showing attendance percentage by grade and quarter, comparing this year to last year for the first two quarters.

Finally, he compared results with goals set for the 2025-26 school year:

  1. Elementary will increase the growth percentage of students in K-5 scoring in NWEA 61st percentile by the end of the year. At mid-year, math was at the 62nd percentile, with reading, language, and science at the 60th percentile.
  2. Middle school will increase the growth percentage of students in grades 6-8 scoring in NWEA MAP at the 60th percentile by the end of the year. At mid-year, science was at the 60th percentile, with math, reading, and language at the 57th, 55th, and 58th percentile, respectively.
  3. High school will have 70% of students score at “meet or exceed” on PSAT/SAT in the spring, with 30% percent scoring as “approaching.” Mid-year results show 86% for reading and writing and 44% for math in grades 10-11. For grade 9, results show 83% for reading and writing and 39% for math.
  4. Increase school-wide attendance rates to 96% by the end of the year. At mid-year, grades 2-7 and 11 were at or above 96%; while grades K, 1, 8-10 and 12 ranged from 90.5% to 95.28%.

Board members asked about the impact of the changes MA made in math curriculum. Vinchattle said MA had decided to accelerate the math curriculum, with kindergartners taking first-grade math and first-graders taking second-grade math. Vinchattle said that kindergartners are now at 80% in growth, with 51% in the advanced category, and first-graders are at 78%, indicating that kids can handle high expectations.

Proposal for Army JROTC program

Vinchattle said there was interest in a Junior Reserve Officers’ Training Corps (JROTC) program, so he explored some options by contacting the head of JROTC programs in the state. He learned that the Army program is pushing to expand into 50 schools per year in Colorado. There hasn’t been a new Air Force JROTC program in 10 years, he said.

Vinchattle said there were three programs available. The Army would provide everything needed to start a program, including curriculum, uniforms, and equipment. It would cover half the cost of two instructors who would make $86,000 each, and MA would provide the other half. Additional start-up costs for MA would include setting up classrooms, possibly in the portables. The program would likely start in 2027, he said.

Board member Craig Carle asked whether this would be a class during the day or after school. Vinchattle said it would be a mix, with some classes for credit during the day and extra credit opportunities for drilling and color guard after school. Vinchattle noted that MA would be able to open the program for eighth-graders as well, unlike other high schools. Carle suggested finding grants to help fund MA’s cost, and the board discussed the timing and student count requirements and the ability to delay the program if MA were not fully ready in the 2027-28 school year.

The board unanimously approved having Vinchattle apply for the program.

Letters of agreement for bond refinancing

Vinchattle presented a proposed letter of engagement to work with Miller Farmer Carlson Law, MA’s current lawyers, on the refinancing of bonds. He said it would allow the firm to represent MA on the bond refinancing and on the track and field construction, looking at contracts and speaking with bond representation for a $25,000 flat fee. Graham noted that this would be part of the refinancing costs.

Vinchattle also proposed a letter of engagement with D. A. Davison to be the underwriter for Monument Academy’s Series 2026 bonds.

The board unanimously approved both engagement letters.

Initial calendar discussions

Vinchattle brought forward the proposed 2026-27 school year calendar, asking the board to confirm it, but saying he also wanted to explore different calendars with staff and families, allowing MA to consider the pros and cons of different start dates or a four-day calendar.

Graham said he appreciated that Vinchattle was willing to take the time to gather data from parents, staff, and teachers. He said he had heard a lot from parents on the subject.

The board unanimously approved preschool, elementary, secondary, and homeschool calendars for the 2026-27 school year.

Highlights

Board meeting highlights include:

  • Spotlight. Vice President Lindsay Clinton recognized the high school teaching team, saying the high school was small but mighty and had received the Platinum Advanced Placement (AP) award the previous month. Clinton and Carle read a short statement about each teacher, what subjects they taught, and their strengths and accomplishments.
  • Executive director. Vinchattle reported that mid-year testing was complete, that MA would launch its America 250 campaign focused on patriotism and would also celebrate Colorado’s 150th anniversary and MA’s 30th anniversary. He also noted that the preschool program held its first core knowledge day, and the high school eight-man football team was gaining interest and had a new helmet design. Finally, he thanked Operations Manager Jake Dicus for his work on a $150,000 facilities assistance grant that would be used at both campuses.
  • Finance director. Laura Polen reported on December financials, which is the halfway point of the year. West Campus had a net loss of $51,000, which would have been a loss of $36,000 without the deficit spending of Employee Retention Tax Credit (ERTC) funds. The East Campus had a net loss of $467,000, which would have been an income of $542,000 without the ERTC deficit spending. Polen then reviewed the General, Preschool, Facilities Corporation, and Foundation Corporations funds, detailing beginning and ending balances and income, expenses, and interest. Finally, she noted that MA is working on the capital construction plan for the track and field area and meeting weekly with the bond counsel and underwriter, and has filed W2s and 1099s with the state.
  • Curriculum West. Clinton reported that the committee met to document best practices to effectively and transparently communicate with parents about curriculum. Its goal is to earn parents’ trust that MA’s standards are aligned with expectations. She also said the committee reviewed the draft field trip process.
  • Curriculum East. Clinton said the committee approved a final draft and would provide an update next month on curriculum alignment.
  • Student Accountability and Advisory Committee (SAAC) West. Clinton said the committee had reviewed answers to the mid-year survey, and the chair would prepare a recommendation letter to the board.
  • SAAC East. Board member Jilinda Dygert said there were 175 total responses, and the committee was still putting the information into a readable format for review and then would prepare a board recommendation. She also noted that the vice chair position on the committee had been open all year and asked that interested parties reach out to Secondary Principal Angela Duca.
  • Finance. Carle said there was a lot of work on refinancing and the opportunities that would bring. He also said there were a lot of plans going on with marketing to increase enrollment, but noted that word of mouth still carries a lot of impact.
  • Building and facilities. Graham congratulated School Resource Officer (SRO) Maxwelle Ellis, who will leave in April for a new position in Florida, saying he would be missed. He noted that Officer Bryan Salvetti would take over and would start his transition in March.
  • Resources and development. Clinton said that a what-to-wear guide went out in ParentSquare for the upcoming casino night gala. The event will be held at the Pro Rodeo Hall of Fame. She noted that Dicus was working on a grant for Science, Technology, Engineering, and Math (STEM) education.
  • Board election. Clinton reminded the board that applications are open and candidates have until March 31 to apply.
Above: At its Feb. 12 meeting, the Monument Academy board recognized the high school teaching team. Vice President Lindsay Clinton and Treasurer Craig Carle took turns listing the teachers and their subject area, strengths, and accomplishments. From left are board President Ryan Graham, Clinton, board member Matt Ross, high school teachers, Kristin Grieshaber, Sara Helgoth, and Jenni Helgoth, board member Dygert, and Carle. Not shown are high school teachers Spencer Colter, Shawn Crook, Harry Grover, Trevor Kelson, Richard Merkling, Aaron Meschuk, Sarah Scaling, and Brian Thomasson. Photo courtesy of Monument Academy.

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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 March 12 at 6:30 p.m. at the East Campus. The agenda and packet are available at tinyurl.com/ma-boarddocs.

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

Other Monument Academy articles

Lewis-Palmer D38 Board of Education, Feb. 10 – Board discusses possible adjustments in light of state budget crunch

Highlights

  • The district faces potential impacts from a state budget shortfall, with education likely affected as Colorado prioritizes healthcare and must balance budgets under TABOR limits.
  • Key proposed reductions include cutting capital investment funding from $3 million to $2.5 million, eliminating new hiring bonuses, and delaying or rethinking a self-funded health insurance option for the future.
  • Funding changes may rely more on student counts, which are projected to decline by about 99 students next year, and districts may need more staffing flexibility across schools.
  • Universal Pre-K is currently a break-even program, and changes in per-pupil funding rules may accelerate fiscal effects due to declining enrollment and mobile student populations in D38.
  • The Parent and Community Advisory Committee highlighted a need for clearer communication with the board, outlined its shift to interactive discussions, and emphasized reporting back to school advisory committees.
  • The main takeaway for listeners: the district is actively planning for tighter funding but awaits more solid-state guidance in coming months, with ongoing efforts to align staffing, compensation, and communication to mitigate impacts.

By Harriet Halbig

The Lewis-Palmer D38 Board of Education received a detailed report from Chief Business Officer Brett Ridgway regarding the possible impacts on the district from a shortfall in the state budget. The Parent and Community Advisory Committee (PCAC) presented information on its activities and suggestions on improving communications with the board.

District budget planning discussion

Ridgway explained the current state of the Colorado budget and the impact going forward.

The state is facing a large shortfall in its budget due to increased spending on healthcare. Colorado is required by law to have a balanced budget each year, further limited by TABOR requirements that the state retain a specific level of reserves.

Education is second only to healthcare in its share of state budget allocations, so this shortfall will have an impact on all schools in grades K through 12. Ridgway commented that over the past few years, revenue from COVID-19 era funds such as ESSER (Elementary and Secondary School Emergency Relief) were used to fill some funding gaps, especially regarding the safety of schools. These funds are no longer available.

Ridgway explained a number of possible adjustments to district spending to help limit the effect of possible decreased funding. Among these are:

  • Decrease the amount of funding for capital investment. It was reduced from $3 million annually to $2.5 million, with the difference used to fund a compensation increase two years ago. At this point, it appears unlikely to return to its former amount.
  • Eliminate new hiring bonuses. This option has been discussed among principals, said Executive Director of Education Services Alicia Welch, who met with school officials last November to begin planning for the 2026-27 school year.
  • Changing to a self-funded health insurance program. This will not be possible in 2026-27 but may be implemented in the future.
  • Change the allocation of Specific Ownership taxes (on such items as trailers and boats). These taxes represent about 5% of tax revenue. At present, the district can determine what portion of these taxes will contribute to the School Finance Act and what portion will be retained locally.
  • Adjust retention bonuses.
  • Slow progress on the projects at Grace Best because the Home School Enrichment Academy structure will not be in use until the beginning of the next school year.

An additional change in state funding is based on the fact that, in the past, funding was primarily based on the student count determined on Oct. 1 each year, and the rate of per-pupil funding was calculated separately.

Because birth rates are declining and therefore the student count is also declining by a predicted 99 students in the coming year, an increase in the rate of per-pupil funding will not compensate for a lower student population. In the past, districts were allowed to average their student count over five and then four years. That is no longer the case, so the impact will be felt more immediately.

Ridgway said that D38 is unusual in that its student population is very mobile, with those beginning the year often moving away before the end. In addition, due to the price of housing in the district, families often move here later in their lives. Executive Director of Education Services Alicia Welch commented that in elementary schools, families are given a survey each year regarding whether they plan to remain in the area.

School Superintendent Amber Whetstine commented that the district is doing targeted marketing to increase the student count.

If funding will primarily be based on student count, it may be more necessary to be flexible in staffing from one school to the next. Welch said that some teachers are licensed to teach more than one subject, and that may add to flexibility internally. Many positions are now being posted internally.

Ridgway said that Director of Planning, Facilities and Grounds Melissa Andrews is monitoring such local factors as birth rates and home sales to help in forecasting changing conditions.

When asked whether Universal Pre-Kindergarten produced significant revenue, Ridgway said that it is a break-even situation.

Board President Ron Schwarz asked when some of this information may be solidified.

Ridgway said the Legislature is in only its second month of session, so any solid information will unlikely be available for a few months.

Whetstine thanked the entire district team for being proactive.

To view Ridgway’s presentation, please see lewispalmer.org, board of education, boarddocs, and select the meeting date.

Parent and Community Advisory Committee report

PCAC Co-chairs Renee Butler and Kirsten Zook reported to the board on the committee’s activities and requested guidance regarding communication between the board and the committee.

Butler said that over the past year, the committee has changed its meetings from being largely listening to presentations to holding interactive discussions on topics that change each month.

An early example of this format was when the committee held a special meeting to discuss how to select a new district superintendent. Results of that meeting were provided to the board and resulted in the position being posted internally.

In the 2025-26 school year, the committee voted at its initial meeting on which aspects of the district strategic plan they wished to concentrate.

The committee voted to concentrate on Academic Excellence and Valuing Our People, priorities 2 and 3.

In discussing academic excellence, Director of Assessment and Curriculum Dr. Michael Brom explained the criteria for being designated as Accredited with Distinction. The criteria were recently changed to emphasize the degree of participation in standardized testing. Over the past two years, families have been allowed to opt their students out of testing.

The committee discussed ways to encourage participation by telling students that it benefited them by showing where they ranked among peers and supporting their progress. The committee also voted to prioritize being in the top 10% academically. A question that arose is whether the community values being accredited with distinction or whether energy should be used elsewhere.

In discussing Valuing Our People, Priority 3, Human Resources Director Michaela Vanderheiden spoke about results of staff surveys and planned actions to improve results.

The committee said it remains committed to improving compensation and understanding such factors as enrollment trends and inflation affecting the district budget.

Butler said a concern in the PCAC is a lack of understanding of the relationship between the Financial Transparency Committee (FTC) and PCAC. Butler said they did not have access to the agenda for FTC meetings and did not know the name of the chair, although FTC is a subcommittee of PCAC.

Schwarz commented that it was intentional that FTC be a subcommittee of PCAC and should function as PCAC requires.

Butler thanked board members for their attendance and participation at PCAC meetings, and Zook commented that communication among the board, the committee, and others is key. Currently, members of PCAC are asked to report back to their school advisory committees while PCAC requests that the board inform them of subjects they wish to address.

Board Vice President Dr. Patti Shank, who is also board liaison to the committee, said the board represents the community, and if the committee wishes to discuss a topic, what can the board offer, such as a definition of excellence? She has learned a lot by attending committee meetings and learning what people in the community are thinking, she said.

Schwarz summarized his reaction to the presentation as follows:

  • The board needs to be more prescriptive and specific about its expectations, offering tasks that are measurable and finite.
  • The board needs to describe the relationship between PCAC and FTC.
  • PCAC is attempting to give actionable conclusions and advice to the board.
  • Perhaps a representative of PCAC could attend the board’s retreats to learn the board’s intentions.

Human resources report

Vanderheiden reported on timelines for human resources actions in the remainder of the year.

She detailed evaluations and check-ins for staff at all levels and described the difference between non-renewal and intent-to-renew contracts.

Hiring would normally begin in February but is delayed due to budget uncertainty.

For details on the process, please see boarddocs.

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The Lewis-Palmer D38 Board of Education usually meets at 6 p.m. on the third Monday of the month from 6 to 8 p.m. in the Bauman Learning Center, 146 Jefferson St. The next meeting will be on Monday, March 16. For information, please contact vwood@lewispalmer.org.

Harriet Halbig may be reached at harriethalbig@ocn.me.

Other Lewis-Palmer D38 Board of Education articles

Monument Fire District, Feb. 25 – Fire Station 3 sale approved

Highlights

  • The Monument Fire District approved the sale of Fire Station 3 to Woodmoor Water and Sanitation District for $1.260 million with a one-year lease of $145,728 to allow occupancy during the rebuild, which is planned to be completed by March 15, 2027.
  • The board also approved a lease extension option of up to one additional year at not less than $12 per square foot if the rebuild overruns.
  • The rebuild contractor mobilization is set for March 9, with a groundbreaking on March 25 and public hearings for Station 1 Training Center planned March 11 and April 6, aiming for completion and training readiness by late 2027.
  • The executive recruitment for a new fire chief is underway with Prothman; a posting will go live on Feb. 26, interviews start in April, and the selected candidate could begin around July/August with a salary of $210,000–$235,000 plus benefits.
  • Treasurer's report shows 8.3% of the year complete as of Jan. 31, with year-to-date income around $263,395 and projected 2026 revenue near $24 million; expenses around $2.057 million and a budgeted $21.984 million, with $33.211 million in total liquid assets.
  • The board discussed retiree healthcare options, with efforts to explore feasibility and potential plans for retirees, noting current district healthcare costs and the lack of a retiree plan; two directors volunteered to assist in exploring options.

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Editor’s note: OCN needs a volunteer to cover Monument Fire District meetings. We will train you! Contact John Heiser at 719-488-3455.

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By Natalie Barszcz

At the Tri-Lakes Monument Fire Protection District (TLMFPD) dba Monument Fire District (MFD) meeting via Microsoft Teams on Feb. 25, the board approved a purchase agreement for the sale of Fire Station 3 to Woodmoor Water and Sanitation District (WWSD). The board recognized outgoing board Director Tom Kelly and held an election for the treasurer position. The board approved the fire chief job description and position profile for the fire chief recruitment search, received a copy of the 2025 MFD Annual Report, and heard about a request by the International Association of Firefighters (IAFF) Monument Local 4319 to explore the possibility of a retiree healthcare coverage benefit.

Director Michael Smaldino was excused.

Fire Station 3 sale agreement

Chief of Administration Jamey Bumgarner requested the board approve the sale of Fire Station 3 at 1855 Woodmoor Drive to WWSD No. 1 for $1.260 million and a lease agreement of $145,728 (for one year) to continue occupying the property until the rebuild of Fire Station 3 is completed at 17320 Jackson Creek Parkway (north of the Tri-Lakes YMCA). Should the rebuild take longer, the district could continue leasing the station for up to an additional year for not less than $12 per square foot. The rebuild is expected to be completed on March 15, 2027.

In a 6-0 vote, the board approved the sale and the lease agreement.

Bumgarner said the general contractor for the rebuild of the station will be ready to mobilize on March 9, and a groundbreaking ceremony is scheduled for March 25 at 1 p.m. For further details about the site planning, see the WWSD article on page < 13 >.

Station 1 Training Center update

Bumgarner said public hearings are scheduled for the Fire Station 1 Training Center development with the Monument Planning Commission on March 11 and the Town Council on April 6. Delivery of the tower structure is expected by the end of September or early October and ready for training purposes in November.

Recruitment update

Fire Chief Andy Kovacs said the executive recruitment for the fire chief position was underway by Prothman Executive Recruitment, and he requested the board approve the job description and position profile presented, allowing Prothman to advertise the position on Feb. 26. The candidate interview process will begin in April, followed by the Board of Directors’ selection process from a short list of candidates in May, said Kovacs.

The candidate will be ready to join the organization in July/August with a salary of $210,000-$235,000 plus benefits. At the October meeting, Kovacs announced his plan to retire from the fire service at the end of 2026.

The board approved the job description for posting.

Financial update

Treasurer Kelly said the district is at 8.3% of the total budget year to date as of Jan. 31, and he highlighted some of the following from the financial report:

  • The combined overall income received year to date was about $263,395. The projected income revenue for 2026 is set at about $24 million.
  • Overall expenses were about $2.057 million and 9.4% of the projected expense budget set at about $21.984 million.
  • The total checking/savings was about $33.211 million, with about $8.287 million in the Operations/General Fund. The balance includes loan proceeds of about $18.133 million in Bank of Oklahoma financing for the Fire Station 3 rebuild.

Kelly said the district will receive a large input of expected property tax revenue in March, and all 25 electronic transactions were appropriate and within budget. Of note was about $1.639 million to Land Title Guarantee for the Fire Station 3 land purchase and $152,000 to PNC Equipment for the annual lease payment on the tower ladder truck.

The board voted 6-0 to accept the financial report as presented.

Board director recognized

Kovacs recognized Kelly for his dedicated service and leadership to the district since 2019 and said, “It was not uncommon for Kelly to sit down and discuss matters in his office on many occasions.”

Above: From left, Treasurer Tom Kelly receives a plaque for his dedicated service and leadership from Fire Chief Andy Kovacs on behalf of the district during a recognition of service to the district at Fire Station 1 on Feb. 25. IAFF Monument L4319 President/Engineer Christian Schmidt (not pictured) also recognized Kelly with a commemorative statue depicting a firefighter on behalf of Local 4319. Photo by Jennifer Martin.

IAFF Monument L4319 President/Engineer Christian Schmidt presented Kelly with a commemorative statue and said, “Kelly’s time serving on the board has truly mattered.”

Kelly said he hopes that the district “continues to shine.” Kelly is moving out of the district.

Director updates

President Mark Gunderman welcomed Steve Phillips as the new board director, replacing Kelly. Gunderman asked if any director was willing to take on the role of treasurer, but hearing no offers, said he would ask Smaldino to consider the role.

Retiree healthcare presentation

In a room well-attended by firefighters and family members, Firefighter Rudi Gillette (with 24 years’ service in the district) requested that the board explore options for the potential implementation of an employer retirement healthcare benefit plan for firefighters and spouses. Gillette said the district does not currently offer a healthcare plan for retirees, but most firefighters retire between the ages of 45 and 55 after a tough career on bodies that take a beating up to retirement. Currently, no other fire department offers a retiree healthcare plan in El Paso County; however, Frederick-Firestone Fire District does offer one should the board need a comparison plan, said Gillette.

Kovacs said the district provides 95% of the current healthcare plan costs to all employees, spouses, and dependents, with a 5% employee contribution that includes dental and eye exams while employed by the district.

Vice President John Hildebrandt said, it would be great if we could do it, but the costs would be dictated by the plan provider, with no control by the district for a period of 10 years or more before Medicare “kicks in.”

Gunderman said retiree healthcare plans for local government are usually offered to front-line firefighters and police officers, and not for all positions within departments. The board should explore retiree healthcare benefit plan costs at a minimum, if it is affordable and sustainable, said Gunderman.

Gillette requested two members of the board volunteer to explore plan options. Directors André Mouton and Duane Garrett agreed to assist with the request.

Chief’s report

Division Chief of Operations Janaka Branden presented the chief’s report. The report and the 2025 Annual Report can be viewed at www.monumentfire.org.

The meeting adjourned at 6:04 p.m.

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Meetings are usually held on the fourth Wednesday of every month. The next regular meeting is scheduled for March 25 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

Woodmoor Water and Sanitation District, Feb. 17 – Board asks for help with water piracy

Highlights

  • The February WWSD board heard a report on water theft by subcontractors at fire hydrants, with a call for residents to report illicit connections and reminders that permits, meters, and backflow prevention devices are required for commercial use.
  • The district reported up to about half a million gallons of water could have been lost to theft, and some customers have aided investigations using doorbell camera footage; three fiber optic projects may involve unpermitted subcontractors.
  • 2025 finances showed a net income of about $570,000 for the year, with 2025 revenue of $12.4 million and expenditures of $14.2 million, and notes that 2024 audited net income was about $5 million; some figures may be adjusted after audit.
  • An easement agreement with the YMCA will allow Monument Fire District's Station 3 to use an existing YMCA sewer line, with WWSD purchasing line rights for $10 and YMCA maintenance for one year.
  • The Joint Use Committee voted to participate in a one-year opioid study of wastewater, with no cost to WWSD and data shared only in aggregate to state agencies.
  • Other operational items included Lake Woodmoor levels up 3.6 feet since June 1, 2025, slow meter replacements due to backorders, and planned lift-station elimination and county traffic changes affecting WWSD utilities, with an executive session held and no action taken.

By James Howald

At its February meeting, the Woodmoor Water and Sanitation District (WWSD) board heard a report from Operations Superintendent Dan LaFontaine regarding the theft of water by subcontractors. LaFontaine asked the community to help spot water being taken from fire hydrants without required permits.

Board Treasurer Dana Franzen provided a financial report closing out the 2025 fiscal year. District Manager Jessie Shaffer explained an easement agreement between WWSD and the YMCA on Jackson Creek Parkway that will allow Monument Fire District’s proposed Station 3 to use an existing sewer line on the YMCA’s property. The board heard a report on the Joint Use Committee (JUC) from Franzen and operational reports from district staff. The meeting ended with an executive session.

Help prevent water piracy

LaFontaine told the board that district staff have recently caught multiple companies stealing water by connecting to fire hydrants without having a permit to do so. In addition to a permit, LaFontaine said a water meter and a backflow prevention device are required whenever a connection is made to a fire hydrant for commercial purposes. Lack of a backflow device can lead to contamination of the water that district customers drink.

LaFontaine asked the public to report anyone other than firefighters connecting to a fire hydrant by calling the WWSD office at 719 488 2525. He noted some customers have helped the district investigate water piracy by allowing it to review footage from their doorbell cameras, and invoices have been sent to companies that pirated water. Three companies are installing fiber optic cables in the WWSD service area, which requires directional drilling, and some of their subcontractors may not be following proper procedures or may be unaware of the permits required, LaFontaine said. He estimated up to half a million gallons of water could have been lost to theft.

2025 finances presented

Franzen summarized the district’s 2025 financial year, which ended on Dec. 31. The net income for December was $20,000, giving the district a net income for the year of about $570,000. The audited net income for 2024, including tap fees, was about $5 million. Franzen said the 2025 numbers might be adjusted during audit.

The annual revenue for 2025 was $12.4 million, compared to a working budget of $13.1 million, Franzen said, a shortage of $700,000 resulting, mostly from delayed tap fees. He noted the district billed customers for 24 million fewer gallons of water than it did in 2024.

Annual expenditures for 2025 were $14.2 million against a working budget of $17.2 million. $4 million of costs for work on Highway 105 were delayed from 2025 until 2026, Franzen said, while $1.4 million for the Loop water reuse project was moved from 2025 to 2026. He said expenditures were well managed, as most line items show spending less than the working budget.

Franzen said the district planned to spend about $4.1 million from reserves in 2025 but spent only $1.8 million, leaving strong reserves of $24.1 million. The 2026 budget anticipates spending about $5.4 million from reserves, according to Franzen.

Easement agreement facilitates fire station move

Shaffer told the board that Monument Fire District’s timeline to move Station 3 from its current location on Woodmoor Drive to a site just north of the YMCA on the west side of Jackson Creek Parkway had created a challenge regarding the sewer service for the new station. He said the problem had been solved by an agreement that would allow the new fire station to use an existing sewer line that belongs to the YMCA.

WWSD would purchase 400 feet of sewer line and two manholes from the YMCA, along with an easement, for the cost of $10, Shaffer said, enabling the new fire station to use the line. Under the agreement, the YMCA would be responsible for one year of maintenance on the line and asked WWSD to waive a $6,000 bond. The board voted unanimously to authorize Shaffer to sign the agreement with the YMCA.

JUC signs up for opioid study

Franzen, who is WWSD’s representative on the JUC, told the board that the JUC had agreed to participate in a study by C.E.C Innovations that will measure the amount of opioids present in the wastewater flowing into the Tri-Lakes Wastewater Treatment Facility, which the JUC operates on behalf of the Towns of Monument and Palmer Lake and WWSD. The study will be done over one year, at no expense to WWSD. The information collected will only be communicated to the Environmental Protection Agency or the Colorado Department of Public Health and Environment in aggregate to protect privacy, Franzen said. Colorado Springs, Fountain, and two municipalities in Teller County are also taking part in the study.

Operational reports

LaFontaine said the water level in Lake Woodmoor was 3.6 feet higher than it was on June 1, 2025. He said that the district was receiving unexpectedly large flows from Monument Creek despite the lack of snow. He noted that the meter replacement effort was going more slowly than planned because some electronic components were backordered. Only new homes are getting the new meters, LaFontaine said, adding all replacements were due to be complete by the end of 2026.

In her Engineering Report, District Engineer Cydney Saelens said the elimination of a lift station on Lost Arrowhead Drive was expected to begin in late March, and the district would reach out to nearby homeowners to let them know what to expect. She reported that El Paso County is planning to put a traffic roundabout at the intersection of Deer Creek Road and Woodmoor Drive, and WWSD was assessing the utilities that could be affected by the county’s plan.

Executive session

The meeting ended with an executive session for the board to receive legal counsel regarding potential agreements with El Paso County, Monument Fire District, Rex Colorado Corp., Tallgrass, Atlantica Sustainable Infrastructure, Monument Junction Metropolitan District. No. 1, Quantum Group and La Plata Communities. No action was taken following the executive session.

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The next meeting is on March 9 at 1 p.m. Meetings are usually held on the second Monday of each month at 1 p.m. at the district office at 1845 Woodmoor Drive. Please see www.woodmoorwater.com or call 719-488-2525 to verify meeting times and locations.

James Howald can be reached at jameshowald@ocn.me.

Other Woodmoor Water and Sanitation District articles

Monument Sanitation District, Feb. 18 – Work on Beacon Lite Road proceeds

Highlights

  • The update centers on Beacon Lite Road redevelopment being coordinated with utilities, including storm sewers, water lines, power relocation, and internet fiber as part of a project to straighten, level, pave, and add curbs and gutters, which began in 2004.
  • District Manager Mark Parker says the county is moving along on the project and attending meetings with utility providers to plan the required infrastructure work.
  • Parker has received no progress reports from Buc-ee's on the sewer line needed for its proposed travel center, but expects a preconstruction meeting with MSD once a contractor is secured.
  • MSD will not pay for the sewer installation for the Buc-ee's property at County Line Road and I-25, and installing after paving would be three to four times more expensive than installing before Beacon Lite Road is repaved.GMS Inc., the district's consultants, reported in January that they reviewed sanitary sewer design drawings and provided comments to Kimley-Horn, Buc-ee's design contractor.

By Jackie Burhans and James Howald

In his February report, District Manager Mark Parker gave the board an update on the work being done by the El Paso County Department of Transportation on Beacon Lite Road.

Utilities coordinate efforts on Beacon Lite Road

Parker said he was attending meetings between utility providers to plan storm sewers, water lines, the relocation of power lines, and internet fiber along Beacon Lite Road, all parts of the county’s project to straighten, level, pave, and add curbs and gutters to the road. The county is “moving along on that project,” which began in 2004, Parker said.

Parker said he had received no progress reports or other information from Buc-ee’s on the sewer line that would be required by its proposed travel center. He said he expected Buc-ee’s to meet with MSD for a preconstruction meeting once it has a contractor to install the sewer infrastructure for the proposed travel center, which is now before the El Paso Board of County Commissioners.

Parker reiterated that MSD will not pay for the installation of sewer lines for the property at the intersection of County Line Road and I-25. He estimated that installing the sewer line after the county’s project is complete would cost three to four times what it would cost to install the line before Beacon Lite Road is repaved.

In its monthly report to MSD for January, GMS Inc., the district’s consulting engineers, noted it had reviewed sanitary sewer design drawings and had provided comments to Kimley-Horn, the engineering company hired by Buc-ee’s to design its sewer infrastructure.

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Monument Sanitation District meetings are held at 9 a.m. on the third Wednesday of the month in the district conference room at 130 Second St., Monument. The next regular meeting is scheduled for March 18. See MonumentSanitationDistrict.org. For a district service map, see www.MonumentSanitationDistrict.org/district-map. For information: 719-481-4886.

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

Other Monument Sanitation District articles

Triview Metropolitan District, Feb. 19 – Northern Monument Creek Interceptor approved

Highlights

  • The NMCI project was approved to move from design to construction, with a shared estimated cost of about $90.3 million and an initial district share of $32.44 million (TMD $25.66m, FLMD $6.78m), plus a 99-year wastewater services contract and potential pipeline ownership for financing.
  • Groundbreaking is planned for May/June, with completion targeted for late 2027; CSU and FLMD boards have approved their participation, and Colorado Springs City Council has the project on its early March consent agenda.
  • A corrective review found inflow measurements at UMCRWWTF had been significantly understated due to meter discrepancies; new laser meters aligned influent and effluent readings, enabling accurate flow credits and proper accounting ahead of NMCI operations.
  • A special Feb. 11 meeting authorized termination of a mining contract for the Central Reservoir in the Stonewall Springs Reservoir Complex; no action was recorded at the subsequent executive session.
  • Additional district updates: Higby Road improvement detours will start March 23 with project completion expected November 2026; a large Sanctuary Pointe detention pond is being reconstructed with some design costs covered by the developer; Venison Creek Park will receive a new play area in early March, with temporary closures during construction.
  • The district is relocating its offices to 1641 Baja Drive, with most meetings moving there from March 19; next regular board meeting is March 19 at 5:30 p.m., with Zoom instructions available on the district website.

Correction

The TMD article in the February edition of OCN mistakenly identified Director Erik Demkowicz as Mark Demkowicz. OCN regrets the error.

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Editor’s note: OCN needs a volunteer to cover Trivew Metropolitan District meetings. We will train you! Contact John Heiser at 719-488-3455.

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By Natalie Barszcz

At the Triview Metropolitan District (TMD) regular meeting on Feb. 19, the board approved an addendum to an intergovernmental agreement (IGA) with Colorado Springs Utilities (CSU) and the Forest Lakes Metropolitan District (FLMD) for construction cost sharing for the Northern Monument Creek Interceptor (NMCI) project. The board heard about the efforts made to rectify the wastewater meter calculations at the Upper Monument Creek Wastewater Regional Treatment Facility (UMCWWRTF).

The board held a special meeting on Feb. 11 to authorize the termination of a mining contract for the Central Reservoir in the Stonewall Springs Reservoir Complex.

The board held an executive session to determine positions on matters that may be subject to negotiations, develop strategies for negotiations, and instruct negotiators regarding potential participation in the NMCI project.

NMCI project approved

The NMCI project is a proposed 10.1-mile pipeline that would transport untreated wastewater from TMD and FLMD to the CSU J.D. Phillips Water Resource Recovery Facility (near I-25 and Garden of the Gods Road) for processing.

District Manager Jim McGrady requested the board consider and approve Resolution 2026-04, an addendum to an IGA with CSU and FLMD for construction cost sharing for the NMCI project, and to approve the revised wastewater service agreement with CSU for the provision of long-term wastewater services to the district. The addendum moves the project from the design phase to the construction phase. The agreement provides a 99-year contract per term for the treatment of the district’s wastewater and allows ownership in the pipeline to provide an asset for financing the project via bonds from the Enterprise Fund, said McGrady.

McGrady said the guaranteed maximum price to all participants of the proposed NMCI project is finalized to within $500,000 of the anticipated shared cost of about $90.3 million. The shared cost for both districts is $32.44 million (split $25.66 million for TMD and $6.78 million for FLMD). The project has been in the planning phase for eight years, with participation originally offered to all wastewater and sanitation districts in northern El Paso County, said McGrady.

Before considering participation in the project, the district conducted a third-party study to determine the future costs of mandatory upgrades to the UMCRWWTF (shared with Donala Water and Sanitation District (DWSD) and FLMD).

The board unanimously approved the addendum to the IGA, moving the NMCI project forward.

McGrady confirmed to this reporter after the meeting that the project was approved by the CSU board and the FLMD board. The Colorado Springs City Council has the project listed on its early March consent agenda. As the only two districts from northern El Paso County participating in the NMCI project, TMD and FLMD are responsible for the cost of the first 1,000 feet of pipeline to the northern boundary of the Air Force Academy property. Groundbreaking on the project is expected in May/June, with completion of the pipeline late 2027, said McGrady.

Wastewater influent volume realized

Water Treatment Superintendent Gary Potter said that for a number of years, the reported influent (gallons of wastewater) entering the UMCRWWTF has always been significantly less than the amount leaving the wastewater treatment facility. For about a year, the district has been trying to figure out the correct volumes, checking the mag meter and the flume leaving the plant, and those effluent numbers were matching closely. DWSD installed a laser meter upstream of its flume to report to the Supervisory Control and Data Acquisition (SCADA) system, and those numbers also matched well.

The only other meter input that could be causing the discrepancy combines the influents from TMD and FLMD, and those meters should match the effluent flow; they have been off by a massive amount, recording much less influent. The flow numbers need to be accurate to avoid anyone being shorted flow credits, an important factor when the NMCI becomes operational. New laser meters similar to DWSD’s meter were installed before the district’s influent joins the FLMD influent, revealing the district’s influent flow as almost double the previous numbers. The district is finally collecting accurate data from the meters, and the accounting problems can now be resolved, said Potter.

The SCADA system accurately records the wastewater flow leaving the treatment facility to ensure the district is credited the correct amount of reusable return flows.

Water operations update

Potter’s January report stated the Northern Delivery System (NDS) produced 48% of the district’s water, with the remainder sourced from the district’s wells for a total of about 15.774 million gallons. The district sold about 14.990 million gallons to customers, leaving 135,200 gallons or about 4.15% of non-revenue (unbilled) water. The district had 15.72% unbilled water in January 2025.

Higby Road improvement update

Assistant Manager Steve Sheffield said he, McGrady, and Public Works Inspector/Project Manager Tom Martinez had met with Monument Fire District staff to discuss the upcoming road closures and detours that will be necessary to carry out the Higby Road improvements. The rerouting of traffic is expected to begin on March 23, and Kiewit expects to complete the project in November 2026.

Message boards providing updates on the project and a link to the road closures and detours will be available at https://triviewmetro.com.

Detention pond reconstruction

Sheffield said the district is receiving bids to reconstruct the large detention pond in Sanctuary Pointe located off Sanctuary Rim Drive. The pond receives heavy water flow during large storms and has significant silt issues and erosion occurring.

McGrady said the developer is helping with the design cost of the reconstruction project, but the infrastructure is no longer under warranty.

Venison Creek Park construction

Parks and Open Spaces Superintendent Matt Rayno announced the installation of a new play area in Venison Creek Park would begin the first week of March. The park will be closed in March and April during construction. The park is the only play area within the district budgeted for new equipment in 2026.

District office relocation

The district staff anticipates the permanent move to the district’s new utility operations and administration office location at 1641 Baja Drive, Monument, with temporary access via Old Denver Road on March 16. Before stopping by/dropping off utility bill payments, call 719-488-6868 or mail to PO Box 849, Monument, CO 80132. All future meetings will be held at the new location beginning March 19.

Executive session

The board moved into executive session at 8:42 p.m., to receive legal advice pursuant to section 24-6-402(4)(e) Colorado Revised Statutes (CRS), for the purposes of determining positions relative to matters that may be subject to negotiations, developing strategies for negotiations, and instructing negotiators as it relates to the potential participation in the NMCI.

Sheffield confirmed to this reporter upon returning to the regular session that no action was taken.

Mining contract termination

At the special meeting held on Feb. 11, the board unanimously approved Resolution 2026-03, terminating a mining contract for the Central Reservoir in the Stonewall Springs Reservoir Complex following a question-and-answer session between the board and the district’s water attorney, Chris Cummins, and McGrady.

Note: This reporter was unavailable to attend the special meeting.

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Meetings are usually held on the third Thursday of the month at the district office located at 1641 Baja Drive, W. Baptist Rd., with temporary access via Old Denver Road. The next regular board meeting is scheduled for March 19 at 5:30 p.m. For Zoom meeting joining instructions, meeting agendas, minutes, and updates, visit https://triviewmetro.com.

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

Other Triview Metropolitan District articles

Donala Water and Sanitation District, Feb. 19 – Board considers fire mitigation at Willow Creek Ranch

Highlights

  • The DWSD board heard a fire mitigation proposal for Willow Creek Ranch from the Arkansas River Watershed Collaborative, including a plan to add 140 acres to an ongoing project and share the costs, with a target completion around 2026.
  • ARWC officials cited mountain pine beetles, dwarf mistletoe, drought, and tight tree spacing as driving factors increasing fire risk, recommending patch cuts to thin stands and break up fuel continuity.
  • The board approved a lease to allow 12 acre-feet of UMCRWWTF effluent to be used for evaporative depletion replacement, at $150 per acre-foot, with Robison covering legal and conveyance costs.
  • DWSD confirmed El Paso County will cover about $475,000 of Well 7 redrilling costs using ARPA funds earmarked for radium removal, and the board accepted the related procurement memo.
  • Financials for January 2026 were reported as on track, with the Holbein Water Treatment Plant back online after cleaning and the R. Hull Plant slated for cleaning soon; a water line leak occurred during fiber optic work.
  • The meeting concluded with an executive session to discuss legal matters related to the UMCRWWTF agreement and a personnel issue, with no actions taken.

By James Howald and Jackie Burhans

The Donala Water and Sanitation District (DWSD) board met in February to hear a presentation about fire mitigation at its Willow Creek Ranch property from the Arkansas River Watershed Collaborative (ARWC). It considered a request to lease effluent from the Upper Monument Creek Regional Wastewater Treatment Facility (UMCRWWTF), and Acting General Manager Christina Hawker gave an update on her effort to recover some of the cost of the Well 7 redrilling from El Paso County. The board also heard financial and operational reports. The meeting ended with an executive session.

Mountain pine beetle, dwarf mistletoe threaten ranch

In 2008, DWSD purchased the Willow Creek Ranch, a 711-acre property near Leadville, for its renewable water rights. DWSD’s Willow Creek Ranch water is treated and delivered to district customers by Colorado Springs Utilities. DWSD’s goal is to preserve the ranch in pristine condition and reduce the risk of fire to preserve its water resource.

At its February meeting, Jonathan Paklaian, executive director of ARWC, and Mike Rung, a forester with ARWC, presented their proposals on mitigating the risk of fire on the ranch.

Paklaian said the ARWC is a nonprofit organization with access to funding through its partnerships with other organizations, and it works with many water utilities on fire mitigation. ARWC has a large project underway in Lake County, and Paklaian proposed that 140 acres of Willow Creek Ranch be added to the project. ARWC offered to split the cost of mitigating a portion of the ranch with DWSD.

Rung said he found mountain pine beetles during his inspection of the ranch. The beetles bore into pine trees, lay eggs, and then emerge and girdle the vascular system of the tree, killing it. Ponderosa, lodgepole, and limber pines are vulnerable. Tightly spaced trees are an ideal habitat for beetles, and dead trees increase fire risk, Rung said. Drought is also a factor, as it reduces the tree’s ability to make protective sap.

Dwarf mistletoe is present in every stand of trees on the ranch, Rung said. A parasitic plant, dwarf mistletoe propagates by shooting sticky seeds up to 50 feet into the branches of nearby trees. It can kill trees in just seven years.

Breaking up stands of trees helps reduce the spread of beetles and mistletoe. The combination of beetles, mistletoe, and drought is the “perfect storm to cause widespread mortality,” according to Rung. He recommended patch cuts, which remove all trees in 1-to 5-acre swaths, separating tree stands, and thinning 20% to 40% of the trees within stands.

Rung noted the presence of cultural resources on the ranch, such as a cabin foundation and abandoned charcoal kilns. He said those would be preserved.

Rung estimated fire mitigation could be done on 140 acres for $2,000 per acre by July or September of 2026. Paklaian put the price tag for the entire project at $300,000 and offered to pay half. He asked for an informal commitment from the DWSD board. The board agreed and asked Hawker to clarify the costs and draft a letter of intent. Vanderschuere said, “We’ve been watching this and knew it was coming. Denial is stupidity.”

Request to lease effluent approved

Hawker told the board she had received a request from Letha Robison to lease 12 acre-feet of effluent from the UMCRWWTF to replace evaporative depletion from two ponds, for a cost of $150 per acre-foot, which is twice what DWSD receives for effluent it leases to the Arkansas Groundwater and Reservoir Association. Robison will pay all legal fees and will be responsible for conveying the effluent from the treatment plant to her ponds. The board voted unanimously to approve the lease request.

Well 7 redrilling costs

In January, Hawker told the board that El Paso County had agreed to pay about $475,000 of the cost of redrilling Well 7, using funds the county received from the American Recovery Plan Act earmarked for radium removal. At the meeting in February, she presented a memo she had written to El Paso County Financial Services documenting that DWSD had followed its emergency procurement process when redrilling the well. The board voted to approve the memo as presented.

Financial and operational reports

Hawker told the board that revenues and expenses for the first month of 2026 were as expected and the board voted to approve her financial report.

Superintendent of Water Operations Ronny Wright said the Holbein Water Treatment Plant was back in service after being taken offline for cleaning, and the R. Hull Water Treatment Plant would be out of service for cleaning in the next couple of weeks. He noted crews installing fiber optic cable had caused a water leak by drilling into a water line on Gleneagle Drive.

Waste Plant Maintenance Technician Jarred Durham reported the district had treated 24.6 million gallons of wastewater in January, with all parameters within limits.

Executive session

The meeting ended with an executive session to confer with legal counsel regarding the district’s Intragovernmental Agreement for the UMCRWWTF and a personnel issue. No actions were taken following the executive session.

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The next board meeting is scheduled for Thursday, March 19 at 1:30 p.m. Generally, board meetings are held on the third Thursday of the month at 1:30 p.m. and include online access; call (719) 488-3603 or access www.donalawater.org to receive up-to-date meeting information. The district office is located at 15850 Holbein Drive, Colorado Springs.

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

Other Donala Water and Sanitation District articles

El Paso County Regional Loop Water Authority, Feb. 18 – Board hears preliminary engineering designs

Highlights

  • The Loop board heard preliminary engineering designs for expanding the Callahan Reservoir and upgrading the water treatment plant, with Phase 1 capacity planned at 2 million gallons per day, rising to 4 million in Phase 2.
  • The project aims to reduce reliance on Denver Basin groundwater by recovering reusable return flows from participating districts, expanding Callahan Reservoir from 640 to 740 acre-feet and then to 2,200 acre-feet.
  • For the water treatment plant, 14 quality factors were considered; total dissolved solids posed the biggest challenge, and Granular Activated Carbon was chosen to treat it, with a multi-stage process including sedimentation, ultrafiltration, GAC, RO, alkalinity adjustment, and chlorination.
  • Pump stations and pipelines were designed to move water 52 miles north, with a three-part alignment and five pump stations recommended to balance safety, reliability, and long-term cost, plus standardized stations and fiber optic communication.
  • Callahan Reservoir expansion favors rehabilitating the existing dam embankment and changing the diversion point from Fountain Creek to keep water cooler and improve quality, rather than building new embankments elsewhere.
  • On finances, the board approved January invoices totaling $168,000, received $375,000 in reimbursements for Q3 2025 expenses, and held an executive session to discuss legal matters related to property, financing, and Sundance Pipeline agreements; no actions were taken.

By James Howald

In February, the companies engineering the water treatment plant, the pumps and pipelines and the expansion of the Callahan Reservoir presented their preliminary engineering designs to the El Paso County Regional Loop Water Authority (EPCRLWA, or the Loop) board. For this meeting, the Loop board invited board members from the three participating districts to attend. The Donala Water and Sanitation District was represented by Board President Wayne Vanderschuere and Directors Kevin Deardorff, Ken Judd, and Scott McCullough. Mayor Mitch LaKind and Trustees Steve King, Laura Kronick and Chad Smith attended on behalf of the Town of Monument. Woodmoor Water and Sanitation District board President Brian Bush and Directors Dana Franzen, Roy Martinez, and Tom Roddham also attended. After the engineering presentations, the Loop board heard a financial report and the meeting ended with an executive session.

Loop water re-use project takes shape

In his opening remarks, Loop board President Jessie Shaffer said Merrick and Co., Burns & McDonnell, and CDM Smith “have been working tirelessly against tight deadlines.” The project began in 2021 and, in 2022, received $4 million in funding from the American Recovery Plan Act.

Rebecca Hutchinson, the Loop’s interim workflow manager, said the goal of the Loop is to remove reliance on Denver Basin groundwater by recovering reusable return flows from the participating districts. The project will expand the capacity of the Callahan Reservoir in two phases: first from 640 to 740 acre-feet, and then to 2,200 acre-feet.

The water treatment plant will also be developed in two phases: In phase one, it will treat 2 million gallons a day, increasing to 4 million gallons per day in the final phase.

Hutchinson commented on milestones to date, which include the departure of Cherokee Metropolitan District (CMD) from the project; the expansion of the Loop’s board to six members (two from each participating district); negotiations with CMD for the purchase of its Sundance Pipeline; the completion of a Letter of Intent with Tallgrass forming a public-private partnership to provide construction funding; and work on easement acquisition, the control network, and boundary surveys.

Water treatment plant design

Nikole Rachelson, department manager at Burns & McDonnell’s Municipal Water Treatment group, discussed the design for the water treatment plant. She said 14 water quality factors were considered in the design, including total dissolved solids (TDS), taste and odor, total organic carbon, and PFAS chemicals—sometimes called “forever chemicals” due to their resistance to decomposition. Baseline measurements for these factors were taken in the water diverted from Fountain Creek, and target amounts in treated water were established. Rachelson said water quality testing showed TDS to be the biggest challenge. Three alternatives to treat TDS were considered, and Granular Activated Carbon (GAC) was chosen as the best approach because it can meet future regulations and is easy to operate.

Rachelson laid out a treatment protocol with multiple stages:

  • Sedimentation.
  • Ultrafiltration using membranes.
  • GAC.
  • Reverse osmosis.
  • Alkalinity adjustment and chlorination.

Rachelson also presented a floor plan for the treatment plant and explained how its capacity could be doubled with no building expansion.

Pump stations and pipelines

Kyle LeBrasse, a Project Engineer with Burns & McDonnell, presented the design for the pump stations and pipelines needed to convey water 52 miles north to customers in the participating districts. He laid out a pipeline plan requiring three parts: first, a southern alignment that would connect the water treatment plant to the existing Sundance Pipeline, then a central alignment that would repurpose 20 miles of the pipeline, saving time and construction costs, and, finally, a northern alignment that would extend from the Sundance Pipeline to the member agencies.

Three designs were considered for the pump stations, LeBrasse said. The first alternative, which Burns & McDonnell recommended as the best balance of safety, reliability, and long-term cost, called for five pump stations, allowing the system to operate at lower, more manageable water pressures. The two other alternatives required four pump stations but required higher pressures, making leaks more likely. All three designs called for standardized pump stations to simplify maintenance and parts inventories and for chlorination boosting at all pump stations. The pump stations will communicate with each other via fiber optic cable. The system relies on existing storage capacity in the participating districts for resiliency in case of a pump station failure.

Callahan Reservoir expansion

Eli Gruber, a water resources engineer with CDM Smith, presented three alternatives for expanding the capacity of the Callahan Reservoir. He recommended rehabilitating the existing dam embankment to handle the increased storage capacity the Loop required rather than building a new embankment in the same location as the existing embankment or building a second, redundant embankment to the north of the existing embankment. Gruber recommended changing the point of diversion from Fountain Creek, which would keep the water in the reservoir cooler, improving its quality.

Financial report

Shaffer told the board that invoices totaling $168,000 had been received in January. The invoices were from accounting, legal, and engineering companies. The board approved payment of the invoices.

He noted that the Loop had received reimbursement of $375,000 from the El Paso Board of County Commissioners for the Loop’s expenses during the third quarter of 2025.

The bank reconciliation included in the board packet for the meeting said the Loop had $836,000 in the bank.

The board voted unanimously to accept the financial report.

Executive session

Following the presentations, the board held an executive session to receive legal advice regarding the acquisition or sale of real property and legal questions relating to financing, public-private partnerships, member and Loop Authority agreements, and agreements related to the Sundance Pipeline acquisition. No actions were taken following the executive session.

**********

The next regular meeting is scheduled for March 19 at 9 a.m. Regular meetings are held on the third Thursday of each month at 9 a.m. at the Monument Town Hall at 645 Beacon Lite Road. Please see loopwater.org or call 719-488-3603 to verify meeting times and locations.

James Howald can be reached at jameshowald@ocn.me.

Other El Paso County Regional Loop Water Authority articles

Woodmoor Improvement Association, Feb. 25 – Public Safety notes stage 2 fire alert; Buc-ee’s continues

Highlights

  • El Paso County has enacted stage 2 fire restrictions, barring outside fires with exceptions for certain liquid propane or natural gas stoves or grills, and flames must be under 2 feet with an able-to-turn-off switch; hot work like welding and grinding is warned against due to recent fires.
  • Four grass fires occurred in the previous 24 hours, and residents are urged to be extra cautious as conditions are very dry.
  • The Buc-ee's proposal remains under county-level review with NEPCO involvement; a boundary adjustment to add 10 acres was noted, but the project itself is not approved and a full public hearing or commission vote has not occurred.
  • If Buc-ee's proceeds without Palmer Lake annexation, it would require water court and state engineer processes, potentially taking years; WIA is currently concerned but not actively involved due to unknowns.
  • Financial and governance updates: the WIA has an IT contractor agreement, 347 unpaid annual dues are outstanding, and reminders will be sent by March 15; 2025 closed with a small surplus.
  • Other updates: covenant violations are limited (four related to trailers and chickens), 14 January project submissions with a 100% approval rate for the year, six Forestry/Firewise visits completed, and an ongoing effort to finalize Highway 105B easements and update rules; March will bring the last WPS Chief Kevin Nielsen term.

By Jackie Burhans

The Woodmoor Improvement Association (WIA) board met on Feb. 25 to hear a Public Safety report on the county fire alert status, the status of the Buc-ee’s project, and director reports.

Stage 2 fire alert

Director of Public Safety Brad Gleason reported that El Paso County has enacted stage 2 fire restrictions. This means you can’t burn anything outside. One exception is that you can use liquid propane or natural gas stoves or grills that are at least 3 feet from all flammable materials. Flames must be under 2 feet and have a switch so they can be turned off. He also cautioned residents to be mindful of hot work like welding and grinding, because he has seen some fires started that way. Gleason said it is very dry outside and asked that residents be extra careful. President Brian Bush noted that there had been four grass fires in the previous 24 hours.

Information on the fire stage level can be found on the sheriff’s website at epcsheriffsoffice.com/services/fire-information/ where they have a handy chart of what is restricted and additional information on what evacuation notice levels require.

Buc-ee’s project continues at county level

Bush reported that the Northern El Paso Coalition of Community Organizations (NEPCO) was continuing its involvement in tracking the Buc-ee’s proposal. He said that WIA was asked to get re-involved and gave permission to use the letter it had written to the Palmer Lake Board of Trustees. Bush said the land owners have asked for a boundary adjustment to add 10 acres to the property, which does not approve the project itself. He noted that the county has received emails asking for a full public hearing and a full vote of the commission. If Buc-ee’s goes in without being annexed into Palmer Lake, it would have to work with the water court and state engineer, which could take years, he said. Bush said that at this point, WIA is concerned but not involved, as there is too much it doesn’t know.

Highlights

  • Vice president. Vice President Peter Bille said the WIA had signed an agreement with its IT contractor.
  • Treasurer. Bush reported for Treasurer Pete Giusti that finances are doing fine but that there are 347 unpaid annual dues. WIA will send reminder letters by March 15. He noted that WIA had ended 2025 with a small surplus.
  • Covenants: Director Jennifer Davis reported 27 covenant items resulting in four violations related to trailers and chickens. Twelve issues were resolved through friendly communications. In January, WIA processed 10 HOA checks, which ensure there are no violations that can hold up a home sale. There were no hearings in January or February, with the possibility of one scheduled for March. Davis said that if residents have a question about a fence meeting HOA standards, they can call WIA.
  • Architectural Control: Director Ed Miller reported 14 project submissions in January, three of which were approved administratively and 11 by the Architectural Control Committee, which puts the approval rate at 100% for the year.
  • Forestry: Director Jason Hann said WIA completed six Forestry and Firewise visits, noting that it is a slow time of the year. The first batch of mitigation reimbursements were paid, and there is $120,000 left of the 50/50 matching grant. Bush encouraged residents to take advantage of the grant, saying this is a great time to do mitigation.
  • Common Areas. Director Steve Cutler reported that the damage to the snow fence at Toboggan Hill was repaired. He asked residents to notify Woodmoor Public Safety (WPS) if they see someone damaging it in the future. Bush said WPS patrols regularly, and if WIA catches anyone intentionally removing or damaging the snow fences, it will take action.
  • President. Bush noted that WIA expects to act on the Highway 105B project easements next month, and he anticipates adopting a revised version of the rules and regulations as updated by Davis. Finally, he noted that March will be the last month for WPS Chief Kevin Nielsen.

**********

The WIA Board of Directors usually meets at 7 p.m. on the fourth Wednesday of each month in the Barn at 1691 Woodmoor Drive, Monument. The next meeting will be on March 25.

The WIA calendar can be found at www.woodmoor.org/events/. Once approved and posted, the WIA board meeting minutes can be found at www.woodmoor.org/board-of-directors//.

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

Other Woodmoor Improvement Association articles

Letters to Our Community – Dollars to donuts!

What is the purpose of the D38 Financial Transparency Committee (FTC) and the Parents and Community Advisory Committee (PCAC)? To assist, access, and advise D38 on budgets and funding priorities. Such as: Our school district infrastructure is crumbling.

Holes in the walls and deteriorated buildings. Kids packed into trailers like sardines in a can. Half of our schools are in disrepair (deferred maintenance, one day we may have full numbers to discuss). Teachers are giving up on their calling (sad). And when schools fall down, students fall down, and so do test scores! And our community suffers. What now? How long until it’s addressed? Ever? Or Never? Adjust priorities? Maybe. In summary, there is no I in team. We are a team. Let’s do it now!

Gordon Reichal

Our Community News welcomes letters to the editor on topics of general interest to readers in the Tri-Lakes area. Guidelines for letters are found here. The information and opinions expressed in Letters to Our Community are the responsibility of the letter writers and should not be interpreted as the views of OCN even if the letter writer is an OCN volunteer. When there is more than one letter, the letters are arranged in alphabetical order based on the last name of the author.

Other Letters to Our Community

Letters to Our Community – Botox Barbie rebuttal

I read Jim Adams’ February 7, 2026, OCN letter “Botox Barbie” with interest and deep concern. Several points demand clarification.

First, Mr. Adams displays a fundamental misunderstanding of U.S. civics. Non-citizens—including legal permanent residents—are prohibited from voting in federal, state, and most local elections. Citizenship carries specific privileges and responsibilities, foremost the right to vote in our republic. Non-citizens cannot vote in countries like Ireland, Poland, Spain, or Finland without first naturalizing—yet the editorial implies the U.S. could/should open its elections to nationals from Mexico, Russia, China, or elsewhere. Such a policy would invite unacceptable risks of foreign interference.

Broader efforts to accommodate large-scale migration, combined with pushes for D.C. and Puerto Rico statehood, appear designed to create a permanent voting majority for one party, potentially silencing conservative perspectives for generations.

Closer to home, unchecked illegal immigration and sanctuary policies have severely strained Colorado’s social safety net—paid for by American taxpayers—while escalating law enforcement and deportation costs. In El Paso County, for instance, non-English-speaking arrestees are provided both a county-funded public defender and interpreter, diverting resources that could better repair infrastructure or support citizens.

Second, labeling Secretary Noem “Botox Barbie” is immature, gratuitously personal, and hypocritical. As head of DHS, she oversees critical agencies including FEMA, TSA, and ICE. She has demonstrated intelligence, resilience, transparency, and a results-driven approach.

In closing, two suggestions for Mr. Adams and like-minded advocates: If the commitment to undocumented immigrants is so strong, sponsor them personally—open your homes and fund their path to citizenship out of your own pocket.

I, like many taxpayers, am weary of shouldering these costs through my taxes. I will continue advocating to preserve our nation’s security and sovereignty and support strong leadership by Secretary Noem.

Will Steuben

Our Community News welcomes letters to the editor on topics of general interest to readers in the Tri-Lakes area. Guidelines for letters are found here. The information and opinions expressed in Letters to Our Community are the responsibility of the letter writers and should not be interpreted as the views of OCN even if the letter writer is an OCN volunteer. When there is more than one letter, the letters are arranged in alphabetical order based on the last name of the author.

Other Letters to Our Community

Between the Covers at Covered Treasures Bookstore – Books for young readers

Highlights

  • The article highlights a range of new and notable children's and young adult books across various genres, from picture books to dystopian series.
  • It features Torben Kuhlmann's Mouse Adventures entry Earhart; The Incredible Flight of a Field Mouse Around the World, noted for its illustrations and blend of fun, facts, science, and biography.
  • Mystery in Rocky Mountain National Park by Aaron Johnson is described as a self-published title about Jake and friends solving a scavenger-hunt mystery with survival skills and themes of integrity and friendship.
  • A Horse Named Sky by Rosanne Perry is presented as a standalone companion to A Wolf Called Wander and A Whale of the Wild, focusing on a young wild horse's journey to reunite with family.
  • The Eyes & the Impossible by Dave Eggers follows Johannes the Eyes, a dog in an urban park, and his companions as they observe and maintain balance in the park amid impending changes, with rich illustrations by Shawn Harris.
  • The Lion's Run by Sara Pennypacker is summarized as a WWII historical novel about an orphan who joins the French Resistance and discovers courage through small acts of defiance.
  • The Rover's Story by Jasmine Warga introduces Resilience, a Mars rover learning humanlike emotions during a mission, and the challenges of Mars exploration, with Fly as a companion drone

By the staff at Covered Treasures

“You don’t start getting old until you stop learning. Every book teaches me something new or helps me see things differently. I was lucky to have parents who encouraged me to read.—Bill Gates

Earhart; The Incredible Flight of a Field Mouse Around the World

Torben Kuhlmann (North South) $21.95

The latest tale in award-winning author and illustrator Torben Kuhlmann’s Mouse Adventures series takes flight with the courage and spirit of aviation pioneers. For the field mice, the boundary of the garden is the edge of the world. But one little field mouse is determined to discover the wide world beyond the burrow, even if she isn’t supposed to fly. With her knack for engineering and help from an experienced mouse aviator, she defies the other field mice and sets off on a daring journey. Could it be that she inspired Amelia Earhart’s pioneering aviation career? Kuhlman’s beautiful illustrations and unique ability to combine fun, facts, science, and biography make his books engaging for all ages. They include Lindbergh, Armstrong, Edison, and Einstein.

Mystery in Rocky Mountain National Park

By Aaron Johnson (Self-Published) $12.99

Before Jake’s grandfather died, he was on the trail of a centuries-old mystery. He has entrusted that mystery to Jake, leaving behind a set of hidden codes, riddles, maps, and other clues that lead Jake and his friends on a scavenger hunt into the wildest and most rugged wilderness of the national parks. The mystery unfolds as Jake, Amber, and Wes learn about survival skills, natural history, integrity, character, and friendship. Along the way, they discover they are not the only ones on this quest: An elusive shadow group is close on their heels. This is one of five national park mysteries by Castle Rock author Aaron Johnson. Other books take the friends to the Great Sand Dunes, the Grand Canyon, Zion National Park, and the newest book, to Yosemite National Park.

A Horse Named Sky

By Rosanne Perry (Greenwillow Books) $9.99

Exiled from his band, a young, wild horse must find his way across treacherous terrain to reunite with his family after being captured for the Pony Express. This Voice in the Wilderness novel is an enthralling survival story about wild horses, family bonds, and a changing environment. This book is a stand-alone companion to the national bestsellers, A Wolf Called Wander and A Whale of the Wild.

The Eyes & the Impossible

By Dave Eggers (Yearling) $14.99

Johannes, a free dog, lives in an urban park by the sea. His job is to be the Eyes—to see everything that happens within the park and report back to the park’s elders, three ancient bison. His friends—a seagull, a raccoon, a squirrel, and a pelican—work with him as the Assistant Eyes, observing the humans and other animals who share the park and making sure the Equilibrium is in balance. But changes are afoot. Illustrated with full color paintings and artwork from Caldecott honoree Shawn Harris, this story about friendship, beauty, liberation (and running very, very fast), will make readers of all ages see the world around them in a completely new way.

The Lion’s Run

By Sara Pennypacker (Balzer & Bray) $18.99

The acclaimed bestselling author of Pax delivers a historical novel about an orphan during WWII who discovers unexpected courage within himself when he becomes involved with the French Resistance. Lucas is tired of his cowardly reputation, just as he’s tired of the war and the Nazi occupation of his French village. He longs to show how brave he can be. He soon gets his chance in this story of courage and hope, and the realization that the smallest act can make a difference.

A Rover’s Story

By Jasmine Warga HarperCollins), $19.99

Meet Resilience, a Mars rover determined to live up to his name. Res was built to explore Mars. He was not built to have human emotions. But as he learns new things from the NASA scientists who assembled him, he begins to develop humanlike feelings. Launch day comes, and Res blasts off to Mars, accompanied by a friendly drone helicopter named Fly. But Res quickly discovers that Mars is a dangerous place filled with dust storms and giant cliffs. As he navigates Mars’s difficult landscape, Res is tested in ways that go beyond space exploration. As millions of people back on Earth follow his progress, will Res have the determination, courage, and resilience to succeed and survive?

The Mysterious Benedict Society series

By Trenton Lee Stewart (Hachette Book Group)

“Are you a gifted child looking for special opportunities?” Dozens of children respond to this peculiar newspaper ad and are put through a series of mind-bending tests, which readers take along with them. Only four children—two boys and two girls—succeed. Their challenge: a secret mission that only the most intelligent and inventive children could complete. To accomplish it, they will have to go undercover at the Learning Institute for the Very Enlightened, where the only rule is that there are no rules. But what they’ll find in the hidden underground tunnels of the school is more than your average school supplies.

Tesla’s Attic series

By Neal Shusterman and Eric Elfman (Little, Brown and Co.) $8.99

Book one in the Accelerrati Trilogy introduces readers to four teenagers caught up in a dangerous plan concocted by the eccentric inventor Nicola Tesla. Secret-society intrigue, quirky gadgetry, appealing characters, and humor propel the action on through Edison’s Alley and Hawking’s Hallway as they battle The Accelerati, a menacing society of physicists.

Shatter Me series

Tahereh Mafi (Harper) $15.99

Ostracized or incarcerated her whole life, 17-year-old Juliette is freed on the condition that she use her horrific abilities in support of The Reestablishment, a postapocalyptic dictatorship. No one knows why Juliette’s touch is fatal, but the Reestablishment has plans for her—to use her as a weapon. But Juliette has plans of her own. After a lifetime without freedom, she’s finally discovering a strength to fight back for the very first time. This is the first book in the riveting dystopian series for teenage readers, with an unforgettable heroine.

Until next month, happy reading!

The staff at Covered Treasures can be reached at books@ocn.me.

Other Book Reviews

February Library Events – Quilt exhibit, craft groups, device drop-in, and tax assistance

Highlights

  • The Monument Library's Winter Adult Reading Program ended February 28 with over 400 participants reading or attending library programs for at least 30 minutes daily for 30 days, earning an exclusive WARP coffee mug and a Crumbl dessert coupon.
  • March will feature Palmer Divide Quiltmakers displaying new and vintage quilts and items at the Monument Library, with a catalog of titles and creators available at the circulation desk.
  • Tax preparation help is offered at several branches through April 15, with the closest Tri-Lakes option at Library 21c; appointments are required and forms can be printed from ppld.org since staff cannot provide tax advice or stock forms.
  • Monument Library programs this March include Storytime (Tuesdays), Socrates Café (Tuesdays), Paws to Read (Tuesdays), Toddler Time (Wednesdays), optical illusion program for homeschool students (Mar 11), and a range of teen and adult classes with registration required for many events.
  • Specific teen and family offerings include a Teen Advisory Board (Mar 12), Teen Craft Group (Mar 16), a tech help session (Mar 19), a Third Friday Book Club (Mar 20), and a Teen D&D group (Mar 21) with space and registration limits noted.
  • Notable workshops include Art for Older Adults (Mar 12), Sewing Level 1 (Mar 26), and a Fiber Arts Group gathering (Mar 27), with details on registration and event calendars available through the library's listings.

By Harriet Halbig

The Monument Library’s Winter Adult Reading Program ended on Feb. 28. Over 400 patrons participated in the program, reading or attending selected library programs at least 30 minutes a day for 30 days to receive the exclusive WARP coffee mug and a coupon for a free dessert from the Crumbl bakery.

For many years, the Palmer Divide Quiltmakers have hung their new and vintage quilts and other items in the Monument Library during March. Come in to admire their creations. A document listing the titles and creators of each item will be available at the circulation desk. This is always a special time at the library and completely changes the surroundings.

Above: Two of the colorful quilts on display at the Monument Library. Photos by Janet Sellers.

Tax preparation assistance

Tax preparation assistance will be offered at several library branches through April 15.

The closest location to the Tri-Lakes area is Library 21c near Chapel Hill Mall. Services there will be provided by an AARP tax aide. The hours will be from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. on Tuesdays and Thursdays and 9 to 1 on Wednesdays. An appointment is required at 719-257-3805.

For information on services at Fountain, Sand Creek, and High Prairie libraries, please see the website ppld.org, tax time.

Library staff are unable to advise you on tax matters and do not stock paper copies of the forms needed. Forms can be printed from the website, however, by going to ppld.org and choosing research and learn at the top of the page. Choose taxes and specify the specific form you seek (IRS or Colorado state). Both forms and instructions are available.

Monument Library programs

Recurring programs include:

  • Storytime every Tuesday from 10:30 to 11:15 for children 3 to 7 and their parents or caregivers. The final Tuesday in March will feature a special spring break program. See below for details.
  • Socrates Café adult discussion group every Tuesday from 1 to 3.
  • Paws to Read on Tuesdays from 4 to 5. Practice reading aloud and improve fluency by reading to a volunteer Paws to Read therapy dog.
  • Toddler Time every Wednesday from 9:30 to 10 and 10:30 to 11 for toddlers ages 1 to 2 and their parents or caregivers.

Homeschool students ages 5 to 12 are invited to attend a program on optical illusions on Wednesday, March 11 from 3 to 4 p.m. Your mind is playing tricks on you! Learn about the science behind some common optical illusions, make your own, and learn tricks to amaze your friends. No registration is required.

A program on Art for Older Adults will be offered on Thursday, March 12 from 1 to 2 p.m. This class inspires a sense of self-reliance in older adults, even if the participant is reliant on a partner to help use the materials. Registration is required at 719-531-6333 ext. 7005.

The Teen Advisory Board will meet from 5 to 6 p.m. on Thursday, March 12. Learn leadership skills and earn volunteer hours by attending this group and working on projects at the library. Registration is required at 719-531-6333 ext. 7005.

The Teen Craft Group for ages 13 to 18 will meet from 5 to 6 p.m. on Monday, March 16. Bring a craft to work on with your peers. Enjoy socializing with other crafters. This group meets on the first and third Monday of each month.

Need help with your laptop, smartphone, tablet, or the library’s new catalog? Bring your device and all cables anytime between 11 and noon on Thursday, March 19. This program is for adults 18 and older, and no registration is required.

The Third Friday Book Club will meet from 10:30 to 12:30 on Friday, March 20. This group, sponsored by the Tri-Lakes Friends of PPLD, is open to all adults 18 and older. The March selection is The Traitor’s Wife by Allison Pataki.

The Teen Dungeons and Dragons group will meet on Saturday, March 21 from 3:30 to 5:45 p.m. Join fellow teens on an adventure in the world’s greatest role-playing game, Dungeons and Dragons. Beginners and veterans ages 13 to 18 are welcome to participate. Space is limited to eight participants, and registration is required at 719-531-6333 ext. 7005.

On Monday, March 23, from 4 to 5 p.m., teens 13 to 18 are invited to attend a class on customizing their clothes. Bring your own shirts, pants, shoes, etc. and make them uniquely yours. Registration is required at 719-531-6333 ext. 7005.

Kids and families are invited to attend a special spring break program, The Bark Bunch, from 10:30 to 11:30 on Tuesday, March 24. Join The Bark Bunch and learn how to interact with dogs while showing compassion and understanding. If you intend to bring a group of 10 or more, please call ahead. This program replaces the usual Storytime.

Patrons ages 9 to adult are invited to attend a class on Sewing Level 1 on Thursday, March 26, from 10 a.m. to 1 p.m. Learn the basics of machine sewing and create a simple project. We will teach you to wind a bobbin, thread the machine, and navigate the interface of a computerized sewing machine. Then, learn basic stitches. A creative space agreement must be submitted at the time of the program. To access the form, go to the website, events and happenings, choose the Monument Library, and click on event calendar. If you select this class, the link to the user agreement is displayed under “disclaimers.” Children under 13 must be accompanied by a parent or guardian. Registration is required at 719-531-6333 ext. 7005.

The Monument Fiber Arts Group will meet from 10:30 to noon on Friday, March 27. If you are an adult 18 and up and interested in knitting, crochet, or sewing, bring your own project to this monthly group meeting. No registration is required.

Harriet Halbig may be reached at harriethalbig@ocn.me.

Other Pikes Peak Library District articles

Palmer Lake Historical Society, Feb. 19 – Ranch owners discovered Cherokee Trail artifacts

Highlights

  • The Palmer Lake Historical Society heard about Cherokee Trail artifacts on Feb. 19 at the Palmer Lake Town Hall, with Anne Berlemann sharing discoveries from her ranch along the Cherokee Trail.
  • The trail, also known as Trapper's Trail and Trader's Trail, was heavily used during the Gold Rush era to reach the mountains from Oklahoma and Bent's Fort.
  • Oregon-California Trail Association (OCTA) collaborators help mark and map trails on private land and with government agencies to protect the Cherokee Trail's legacy and promote preservation.
  • The Berlemanns used a scientific approach, aided by OCTA and a metal detector, to unearth and catalog items left by pioneers across their property and neighboring lands.
  • Found artifacts range from square nails and wagon wheel parts to guitar tuning pegs, illustrating the trail's historical use and the ongoing discoveries.

By Marlene Brown

The Palmer Lake Historical Society (PLHS) heard about Cherokee Trail artifacts on Feb. 19 at the Palmer Lake Town Hall.

The night’s topic was titled Cherokee Trail Artifacts Across the Palmer Divide, History, Culture, and Discoveries Unearthed. Anne Berlemann shared her and her family’s discovery of Cherokee Trail artifacts at their ranch on the Palmer Divide. She explained that their ranch was along the Cherokee Trail, which was also known as Trapper’s Trail and Trader’s Trail. The road was used extensively during the Gold Rush days as a way to get to the mountains from Oklahoma and Bent’s Fort.

Imagine looking toward the prairie from your property and seeing the ruts of the trail made by wagons. Suddenly, you realize that you are standing on the Cherokee Trail, where pioneers had traveled to make the historical trips west. Upon contacting the Oregon-California Trail Association (OCTA), they found a group of people who work with private landowners and government agencies to mark and map the trails. Their mission is to protect the legacy of the historic trails and promote preservation of the Cherokee Trail.

Above: Anne Berlemann with some of the artifacts from the Cherokee Trail. Photo by Marlene Brown.

The Berlemanns took the scientific approach and, along with help from OCTA and a metal detector, carefully unearthed many items left behind by the pioneers. They carefully and systematically dug and cataloged each item they found across their property and worked with their neighbors to continue the discovery of the well-used road. Pictured at right are some of the artifacts, from square nails to wagon wheel parts to even guitar tuning pegs. For more information about trails in the Palmer Divide area, go to octa-trails.org/regional-chapters/Colorado-cherokee-trail-chapter.

**********

PLHS meetings are usually held on the third Thursday of the month, 7-8:30 p.m. (doors open at 6:30 p.m.) at the Palmer Lake Town Hall, 28 Valley Crescent St. Meetings are free and open to the public. For full descriptions, dates, and times of future programs and information on memberships or donating to the PLHS, visit its newly updated website: palmerdividehistory.org.

Marlene Brown can be reached at marlenebrown@ocn.me.

Other Palmer Lake Historical Society articles

High Altitude Nature and Gardens – A Colorado calendar, seed rolls, and Effective Microorganisms (EM)

Highlights

  • The article emphasizes phenology as the best planting guide in the Tri-Lakes area due to unpredictable weather.
  • It provides a Windowsill sprouting strategy using a DIY snail pack with waterproof material, soil mix, and a rolled strip method to plant seeds.
  • The soil mix for the DIY option combines garden soil, compost, and grit, kept moist to support sprouts and mature plants.
  • A rolling "sushi snail" method is described: lay out strips, add soil, roll, seed along the top edge, seal with sand, mist, and cover to retain moisture.
  • The piece discusses Effective Microorganisms (EM) as a non-toxic blend of beneficial microbes intended to boost soil health, nutrient availability, and disease suppression.
  • Confirmed details include EM's proposed applications (gardening, composting, pest control, environmental uses) and methods to obtain or create EM, while uncertainties include the extent of effectiveness and practical outcomes in home gardening.

By Janet Sellers

In the Tri-Lakes area, unpredictable weather makes phenology—nature’s calendar—the best planting guide. It tracks seasonal cycles like blooming and migration to determine the perfect timing for your garden.

Windowsill sprouting strategy

DIY snail pack:

  1. Waterproof paper, bubble wrap, or corrugated card (best choices), feed bags, even Amazon packages cut to 3 to 6 inches wide and 1 to 2 feet long.
  2. All-purpose potting mix to support the sprout and the growing plant (DIY is a mix of 6 parts garden soil (rob some mole or vole hills—they’ve pre-sifted the soil for you and it’s perfectly textured for this), 3-4 parts garden compost (last year’s leafy stuff, etc.) and some grit for drainage (sand, tiny pebbly sand, breeze/road base size), mix these three and moisten if needed. If the mix dries out easily, increase the organic matter, which will hold moisture. Some gardeners add perlite or vermiculite for drainage and micronutrients. Sift if needed. Moisten the whole batch so it just barely holds a fistful in a ball.
  3. Lay out the strips and add the soil mix to about an inch deep along the strip.
  4. Roll the strip like a sushi snail, tie or rubber-band it, set vertically in the tray; drizzle seeds along the top edge and top off with a thin coat of sand to keep seeds in place; moisten. Some add a light sprinkle of cinnamon to deter pathogens.
  5. Set the roll on a dish or tray, mist or water lightly, and tent with a sandwich bag or larger to retain moisture. Be sure to check the moisture daily. This mimics nature’s leafy mulch.

Effective Microorganisms

My research experience in Japan exposed me to the bridge between ancient respect for the land and the modern microbial technology used today. Traditional Japanese farmers have long recognized the power of forest leaf litter (o-fuchi) and rich “black soil” to jumpstart compost, which is the ancient wisdom EM sought to standardize and offer for today’s agriculture.

The microorganisms are a non-toxic blend of beneficial bacteria, yeast, and fungi developed to naturally boost soil and plant health. By enhancing nutrient availability and suppressing pathogens, EM improves soil structure and accelerates organic decomposition.

Core applications

  • Gardening: enhances soil aeration, water retention, and crop yields. Used as a seed soak, soil drench, or foliar spray.
  • Composting: speeds up breakdown and eliminates odors in waste.
  • Pest control: creates a microbial barrier that protects plants from disease.
  • Livestock and environment: acts as an animal probiotic and treats wastewater or ponds.

You can buy EM concentrates or create a traditional Japanese version made of cooked rice in a mesh bag, buried under leaf litter in a healthy, undisturbed forest for 1–2 weeks.

Janet Sellers is a researcher and columnist specializing in Natural Aesthetic Landscaping and Phenology. Her “lazy gardening” methodology focuses on low-intervention, nature-led ecological design. For inquiries, nature walks, lectures, or collaborative research, contact JanetSellers@ocn.me.

Other High Altitude Nature and Gardens articles

Art Matters – Art, physics, Argyle socks, and math

Highlights

  • Richard Feynman, a Nobel Prize-winning physicist, pursued painting and drawing under the name "Ofey," showing a long-standing curiosity and visual thinking beyond his science.
  • He was encouraged to adopt a relaxed, non-precise artistic approach, contrasting with his meticulous scientific work, and he lived near Caltech in Pasadena.
  • A Cornell cafeteria moment highlights how everyday discussions, like knitting Argyle socks, can reveal insights about applied geometry and pattern recognition.
  • The Argyle pattern is explained as a rotated 45-degree grid deriving from 17th-century Scottish Highlands, illustrating a mathematical shift in pattern recognition.
  • The article introduces Ethnomathematics, coined by Ubiratan D'Ambrosio, which studies mathematical thinking across cultures and everyday practices, not just formal schooling.
  • It emphasizes that art and math are two ways to describe reality, with weaving, architecture, and daily crafts shown as demonstrations of mathematical thinking and beauty.

By Janet Sellers

Richard Feynman, the Nobel Prize-winning physicist, was a man of immense curiosity. He was also a visual thinker who, at age 44, decided to become an artist. Signing his sketches under the pseudonym “Ofey,” Feynman spent decades capturing “scientific awe” through portraits and life drawings. He was encouraged by artists to embrace a relaxed, non-precise approach—a stark contrast to his meticulous scientific work. (Interestingly, Feynman lived just a few miles from me in Pasadena; we even framed his drawings at the shop where I worked, which was near Caltech!)

Above: Art by “Ofey”: Nobel physicist Richard Feynman began drawing at age 44 to capture the “scientific awe” of the world. This landscape, painted under his pseudonym, shows that learning a new “expressive form” is a lifelong journey of understanding reality. Image courtesy of the Michelle Feynman Estate via Open Culture; used for educational commentary.

Feynman’s life was a testament to the idea that art and science aren’t separate rooms, but different windows into the same world. One afternoon in the 1940s at a Cornell cafeteria, he overheard students discussing what he assumed was complex analytical geometry. It turned out they were actually discussing the logic of knitting Argyle socks.

The Argyle pattern is a perfect example of “applied geometry.” Originating in the 17th-century Scottish Highlands with the Clan Campbell, the pattern evolved from traditional tartan. By rotating a standard grid 45 degrees, weavers created the iconic diamond shape. It wasn’t just a style choice; it was a mathematical shift in pattern recognition.

What is mathematics?

The word “mathematics” comes from the ancient Greek Mathema, meaning “that which is learned” or “knowledge.” The suffix -tics stems from tikos, meaning “the art of.” Essentially, mathematics is the art of learning how to manage reality. This leads us to a fascinating field called Ethnomathematics. Coined by Ubiratan D’Ambrosio in the 1970s, this study recognizes that mathematical thinking is inherent to all humans, not just those with slide rules. It validates the “non-traditional” math found in oral traditions, weaving, and navigation.

Weaving the world

Ethnomathematics bridges the gap between abstract school math and the rich, practical knowledge found in daily life. We see it everywhere:

  • Architecture: In the geometric precision of the Native American tipi, the multi-level stone complexes of the Ancestral Puebloans at Mesa Verde, and the structural harmony of the Diné (Navajo) hogan.
  • Cultural rituals: In the complex isosceles triangles and rhombuses of Bedouin embroidery.
  • Daily craft: In the symmetries of basket weaving and the intricate logic of quilts.

Whether you are sketching a model like Feynman did or calculating the tension in a knitted sock, you are participating in a global, ancient tradition of understanding our world. Art and math are simply two ways of describing the beauty we see. At any age, picking up a tool—be it a paintbrush, a needle, or a compass—is the first step in “managing reality” and making it your own.

Janet Sellers is an artist, writer, and speaker, with talks on art making, collecting, and creative strategies for artists, exhibits, and funding. Contact her for more: JanetSellers@ocn.me.

Other Art Matters articles

Snapshots of Our Community

Correction to the Feb. 7 issue of OCN

In the February 2026 issue of Our Community News, Steve Eaton was credited for a snapshot of members of the Tri-Lakes Dynamic Rotary Club assembling Blessing Bags for the local Police Department that will be distributed to people in need. The photo credit should have been Maryam Eaton.

Edmondson scores 1,000th point

Above: During a varsity basketball game Feb. 6 at Cheyenne Mountain High School, Rylee Edmondson, a senior at Lewis-Palmer High School, scored her 1,000th point. The game was stopped to recognize this accomplishment. Photo by Steve Pate.

Kiwanis presents bell-ringing check

Above: Monument Hill Kiwanis Club (MHKC) has turned over the money it made ringing the bell for the Salvation Army. A check for $30,000 was presented to the Colorado Springs Salvation Army (SA) on Jan. 31. Members of Kiwanis, Tri-Lakes Women’s Club, and Lewis-Palmer D38 Key Club members spent 375 hours ringing the bell during the last holiday season. In the photo from left are MHKC Assistant Project Manager Mark Zeiger, SA representative Jeanette Bernstein, SA Maj. Nancy Bell, MHKC Project Manager Jeff Baker, and MHCK President Jim Head. Photo by Warren Gerig.

Rotary presents play park donation

Above: Tri-Lakes Dynamic Rotary Club has raised $2,256 that will go toward the planned Heart of Monument Play Park. Club President Maryam Eaton and club executive Katie Lenger presented a check to the Monument Hill Kiwanis Club on Feb. 14. The money was raised at the Glow Bingo event held Jan. 23 at Monument Community Presbyterian Church. The Play Park is a joint project among Kiwanis, the church, and the Town of Monument. So far, Kiwanis has raised more than $300,000 in donations and pledges for the park. The club hopes the park, which will be located on a half-acre plot next to Monument Community Presbyterian Church in downtown Monument, will be open by late summer or early fall. In the photo from left are Kiwanian Scott Ross, Eaton, Kiwanian Dean Snow, Lenger, and Kiwanian President Jim Head. Photo by Warren Gerig.

D38 arts education, Feb. 9

Above: On Feb. 9, Joseph Jesse, left, and Micaela Cimino gave a talk on the importance of engagement in the arts during the education years at a D38 gathering of interested school staff and citizens. The pair offered highlights from the years of their respective pursuits in the arts and entertainment industries and how the arts develop creative and engaged lives and careers. They are the owners of Bella Art and Frame Gallery in Monument. Photo by Janet Sellers.

Bionic Sharks advance to state

Above: Monument’s robotics team, the Bionic Sharks, advanced to the Colorado State Championship at Colorado School of Mines on Feb. 15. They received the REACH Award for outstanding community outreach. The award came with a $2,000 check. The team earned the right to compete in the championship by winning its second qualifier of the season at the Southern Qualifier at Manitou Springs High School on Feb. 7. From left are Alexandra Epstein, Nate Johnson, Alexandra Gonzalez, Pranav Balaji, Corey Cinalli, Brandon Johnson, Jeanette Breton, and Mike Hinkle. Photo by Robert Dawkins.

Lady Rangers recognized, Feb. 18

Above: Seniors playing for the Lewis-Palmer Lady Rangers basketball team were recognized after the game against Discovery Canyon on Feb. 18. Five seniors were recognized with their parents in a ceremony following the game: Rylee Edmondson, Emmi Medina, Kora O’Connor, Addison Kenley, and Aubrey Gross. The Lady Rangers beat Discovery Canyon in this final game before the playoffs. Photo by Steve Pate

Paper Tigers, Feb. 20

Above: Connie Stanton (standing) leads a “Paper Tigers” class on third Fridays, where students learn two or three new designs each time. On Feb. 20, the Monument Library held an origami class for children and adults to create small paper sculptures. Many of the children had a lot of experience making these small artworks, while it was a new attempt for some of the adults. Each person took a flat sheet of paper and engineered it with a specific series of manipulations and was able to create animals, contrive convoluted forms into a ball shape that could bounce, and make a frog toy that could hop and race the other frog toys.
Below: An origami mouse bookmark.
Photos by Janet Sellers.
.

CO & US anniversaries celebrated

Above: At the Monument branch library on Feb. 24, visitors listened to traditional Irish and Scottish music by the duo Wilson and McKee (shown here with several of their traditional Celtic instruments), enjoyed refreshments and scavenger hunts, contributed to a community quilt, and met Ruby, the resident “giant day gecko.” The occasion celebrated the 150th anniversary of Colorado’s statehood and the United States’ 250th birthday of Independence. Each library in the district is hosting a dedicated open house featuring activities that highlight its unique character. Photo by Janet Sellers.

Kiwanis Stars of Tomorrow Finalists, Feb. 21 & 22

What do eight singers, four pianists, one gymnast, a cellist, a violinist, a violist, one dancer, a trumpeter, a baritone sax player, and two make-believe pirates have in common? They’ll all compete for cash prizes in the Monument Hill Kiwanis Club’s Stars of Tomorrow talent contest on March 15 at Palmer Ridge High School. A record number of more than 50 students showed off their talents at auditions on Feb. 21 and 22 at Big Red. Two fifth-graders from Palmer Lake Elementary, Emmalyse Schaffer and Anna Bearden, played pirates in a performance they wrote themselves. There were two sets of brothers and sisters. Singers Benton and Hadley Miles will compete with other high school students for prizes of $2,000 and $1,000. Violist Katherine Rose Johnson made the cut in the middle school division, and her older brother Austin, a violinist, will perform against high schoolers. Middle school prizes range from $750 to $500. The elementary school winner will take home $500. One 11-year-old from Palmer Ridge High School, Kenton Klein, didn’t make the cut but earned praise for originality by solving a Rubik’s Cube while answering questions from the judges. Photos by Michael Weinfeld.

To see short videos of each of these Stars of Tomorrow, please click here to visit Kiwanis Stars of Tomorrow Auditions on YouTube.

Palmer Lake Elementary fifth-graders Emmalyse Schaffer (L) and Anna Bearden perform an original play.
18-year-old Palmer Ridge High School student Benton Miles sings.
17-year-old Palmer Ridge High School student Hadley Miles sings.
15-year-old homeschooled student Katherine Rose Johnson plays the viola.
17-year-old homeschool student Austin Johnson plays the violin.
Palmer Ridge High School junior Madelyn LaPaorte performs a dance routine.
Lewis-Palmer High School student Chloe Jarrell sings.
Palmer Ridge High School student Lana Elliott Field plays the cello.
Palmer Ridge High School junior Xavier Gonzales plays the piano.
Lewis-Palmer High School junior Evan Marsh plays the trumpet.
Lewis-Palmer High School student Elle Gustin plays the piano.
Eight-year-old LPES student Collins Carpenter performs a gymnastics routine.
12-year-old Monument Academy student Alyson Horne sings and plays guitar.
Palmer Ridge High School sophomore Ryleigh McFarland sings.
Palmer Ridge High School senior Bonneyclaire Patterson plays baritone sax.
Lewis-Palmer Middle School 8th-grader Jack Wittenborn plays the piano.
Lewis-Palmer High School senior Jonathan Lilley sings.
Palmer Ridge High School junior Mia Claypool sings, plays harmonica and piano.
Prairie Winds Elementary School 5th-grader Esther Hunt play piano.
14-year-old Lewis-Palmer Middle School student Kaiya Powell sings.

Four students win trips sponsored by the MVEA

Four students have won trips sponsored by Mountain View Electric Association (MVEA). Sixteen students from 12 schools in MVEA’s service territory applied. Two students tied for first place. Nathan Alger from Lewis-Palmer High School and Yasmin Amadu from Rampart High School of Colorado Springs will represent MVEA at the National Rural Electric Cooperative Association’s Youth Tour in Washington, D.C. this June. Tager Vitt from the Haven School in the Springs came in third place. He and Wesley Rains from Liberty Tree Academy in Falcon will attend the Cooperative Youth Leadership Camp in Clark, Colo., this July. Photos provided by MVEA.

Nathan Alger from Lewis-Palmer High School
Yasmin Amadu from Rampart High School
Tager Vitt from the Haven School
Wesley Rains from Liberty Tree Academy

Other Our Community Snapshots articles

Our Community Notices

Highlights

  • El Paso County launches the Property Protection Program to alert owners when a document uses their name on a property, enabling quick verification of legitimacy and potential fraud; enrollment currently covers filings after enrollment, with plans to expand.
  • Residents can register multiple name variations and household members, and property records can also be reviewed in person at the County Clerk and Recorder's Office.
  • Do not remove trail blazes in Fox Run Regional Park; markers protect the ecosystem and aid navigation in snowy or icy conditions to keep people on the trail.
  • Colorado school bus safety remains strict: drivers must stop for buses with flashing lights and an extended stop arm, with automated stop arm cameras increasingly used to catch violations.
  • Grants of $2.5K–$20K are available from Gleneagle Sertoma Club for local 501(c)(3) nonprofits serving youth, veterans, or hearing health, with priority to northern El Paso County; applications due soon and funding starts May 15.
  • Local volunteer and support opportunities exist: Tri-Lakes Cares needs donations, Larkspur Church Food Bank offers aid, Black Forest Log School seeks fundraising help, and multiple county/state volunteer programs welcome participants. The main point to remember: there are active programs and opportunities across property protection, safety, community aid, and volunteerism in El Paso County.

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.

El Paso County Property Protection Program

El Paso County has launched a new Property Protection Program to help prevent fraudulent deed transfers and real estate scams. The program alerts property owners whenever a document is filed using their name on any property, so owners can quickly verify whether the filing is legitimate or the result of attempted fraud. Residents may register multiple name variations and household members. At this time, the program can only monitor filings made after you enroll, but officials are exploring options to expand coverage. Property records can also be reviewed in person at the County Clerk and Recorder’s Office. To learn more or register, visit the El Paso County Clerk and Recorder’s Property Protection Program webpage. For more information on the PPP program, go to this link: https://clerkandrecorder.elpasoco.com/recording/property-protection/

Do not remove trail blazes/markers

You will be seeing some trail markers in Fox Run Regional Park on trees. The trail markers help protect the delicate forest ecosystem because we can stay on the trail and not damage the ecosystem underneath our feet or with bicycles or horses, etc. These are traditional trail markers, especially useful and necessary in snowy, icy weather when we cannot see the actual trail. Our high desert forest clime is dependent on its skin of soil and plants to survive. When we honor this part of the forest we cannot see, the part we can see has a better chance to thrive amid us humans, the invasive species.

School Bus Safety

Drivers who pass a stopped school bus with its stop arm extended and flashing lights constitute a dangerous and life-threatening violation of traffic laws. In Colorado, you must (A) stop for a school bus with flashing red lights and an extended stop arm, stopping at least 20 feet away, unless you are on the opposite side of a highway divided by a physical, raised, or depressed median; (B) On a two-lane road or one where painted lines, but no physical barrier, separate lanes, you must still stop; (C) After stopping, you must remain stopped until the bus’s lights stop flashing and it begins to move again. Colorado school buses are increasingly being equipped with automated stop arm cameras to record and catch drivers who illegally pass a stopped school bus. Recent legislation allows for the installation and use of these systems by school districts. Academy School District 20 in Colorado uses school bus cameras, including the stop arm camera system and interior cameras, to enhance student safety and to document drivers who pass a stopped school bus with flashing lights and an extended stop arm.

Gleneagle Sertoma Grant Deadline March 15

The Gleneagle Sertoma Club is offering $2.5K–$20K grants to local 501(c)(3) nonprofits serving youth, veterans, or hearing health. Priority is given to northern El Paso County organizations. Don’t miss out—request your application today via gleneaglesertomaclub@gmail.com. Funding begins May 15.

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 https://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 https://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.

Get Help in Larkspur

Larkspur Church has a Food Bank and Care Center that offer a good variety of non-perishable food items, as well as clothing for men, women, and children, some household items available too. We’re here to help. If you are in need, or know someone who is, please reach out to Jeff at gethelp@larkspur.church. If you would like to donate contact Jeff by the same email to arrange a pick up.

Black Forest Log School needs your help

Please help preserve the historic school for another 103 years! New exterior damage was discovered. It has exceeded the budget renovation funds. Friends of the Black Forest Log School, a 501c3 corporation, appreciates your donation. Please send a check or bring cash to Black Forest Community Foundation, 6770 Shoup Rd, Black Forest Colorado 90808. www.bflogschool.com

Forest and gardening volunteers needed

Friends of Fox Run Park has 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.

State and County Volunteer Opportunities

  • The Colorado State University Extension office in El Paso County has several opportunities for individuals interested in volunteering. https://elpaso.extension.colostate.edu/volunteer-opportunities/
  • 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. https://www.epcsheriffsoffice.com/volunteer-program/.
  • 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. https://bocc.elpasoco.com/volunteer/.

Other Notices articles

Our Community Calendar

Highlights

  • BOCC regular meetings are scheduled on multiple Tuesdays in March, with live agendas at agendasuite.org and meetings at Centennial Hall in Colorado Springs.
  • Dozens of local boards and commissions list their March meetings, including planning commissions, water districts, sanitation districts, and town councils; remote participation is often available via links or call-in codes.
  • Weekly and monthly events cover community groups, volunteer organizations, faith communities, and service clubs with recurring dates and online or in-person formats.
  • Special events include a chess tournament by Lewis-Palmer D38, caregiver programs by Silver Key Tri-Lakes, and various cultural activities such as film showings and plays through local churches and arts groups.
  • Many listings note potential changes; attendees are urged to verify times, dates, and access details by contacting event information lines or the listed emails.

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

  • Academy Water and Sanitation District board meeting, Wed., Mar. 18, 6 pm-9 pm. Usually meets third Wed. Public can join the Skype meeting: Monthly board meeting is on Skype at this link https://join.skype.com/OfBkDyhucmep Info: Steve Callicott (President) 719-325-9039 https://www.academywsdco.gov.
  • Black Forest Fire/Rescue Protection District board meeting, Wed., Mar. 18, 7 pm-10 pm. Usually meets third Wed. Visit http://www.bffire.org for updates and the agenda listing the Zoom joining codes or contact 719-494-4300.
  • Donala Water & Sanitation District board meeting, Thu., Mar. 19, 1:30 pm-4:30 pm. Meets third Thu. Check the website www.donalawater.org for the access code for the electronic meeting. Info: 719-488-3603
  • El Paso County Board of County Commissioners (BOCC) regular meeting, Tue., Mar. 10, 9 am-10 am; Tue., Mar. 17, 9 am-10 am; Tue., Mar. 24, 9 am-10 am; Tue., Mar. 31, 9 am-10 am. Usually every Tue. 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.
  • El Paso County Planning Commission meeting, Thu., Mar. 19, 9 am-12 pm; Thu., Apr. 2, 9 am-12 pm. Normally meets first & third Thu. (as required). 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. Info: 719-520-6300
  • El Paso County Regional Loop Water Authority meeting, Thu., Mar. 19, 9 am-12 pm. Normally meets third Thu. No meeting in Dec. Monument Town Hall Boardroom, 645 Beacon Lite Rd. Info: 719-488-3603 or https://www.loopwater.org.
  • Lewis-Palmer School District 38 board meeting, Mon., Mar. 16, 6 pm-9 pm. 6 pm. Meets in the school year, third Mon. 146 N Jefferson St, Monument. 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 https://go.boarddocs.com/co/lewispalmer/Board.nsf/vpublic. Contact Vicki Wood. Phone: 719.481.9546 Email: vwood@lewispalmer.org Website: www.lewispalmer.org.
  • Monument Academy School Board meeting, Thu., Mar. 12, 6:30 pm-10:30 pm. Usually meets the second Thu. East Campus gym, 4303 Pinehurst Circle. Info: 719-431-8001 or https://www.monumentacademy.net/school-board.
  • Monument Fire District board meeting, Wed., Mar. 25, 4:30 pm-6:30 pm. Meets 4th Wed. in person or via Microsoft Teams. Station 1, 18650 Highway 105. For up-to-date meeting information, visit www.monumentfire.org for updates and the agenda listing the Microsoft Teams joining codes, or contact 719-488-0911.
  • Monument Planning Commission meeting, Wed., Mar. 11, 6 pm-9 pm. Usually meets the second Wed. Town Hall Board Room, 645 Beacon Lite Rd., Monument. 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.
  • Monument Sanitation District board meeting, Wed., Mar. 18, 9 am-12 pm. Meets third Wed. In-person at 130 Second St. Also available on Google Meet. Find joining instructions at https://www.monumentsanitationdistrict.org/. Info: 719-481-4886
  • Monument Town Council meeting, Mon., Mar. 16, 6:30 pm-9:30 pm. Normally meets first and third Mon. Town Hall Board Room, 645 Beacon Lite Rd., Monument. Info: 719-884-801 for remote attendance links. www.townofmonument.org/260/Board-of-Trustees
  • Northern El Paso County Coalition of Community Associations (NEPCO), Sat., Mar. 14, 10 am-12 pm. Usually meets bi-monthly (Jan., Mar, May, July, Sep., Nov.) the 2nd Sat., Woodmoor Barn, 1691 Woodmoor Dr. Members of local HOAs are welcome. www.nepco.org.
  • Palmer Lake Board of Trustees meeting, Thu., Mar. 12, 6 pm-9 pm; Thu., Mar. 26, 6 pm-9 pm. Usually meets second and fourth Thu. Palmer Lake Town Hall, 28 Valley Crescent. Info: 719-481-2953 or https://www.townofpalmerlake.com.
  • Palmer Lake Sanitation District board meeting, Wed., Mar. 11, 9 am-12 pm. Meets second Wed. Call-in only: 650-479-3208, Access Code 76439078, 120 Middle Glenway. Info: 719-481-2732 or www.plsd.org.
  • Palmer Lake Town Planning Commission meeting, Wed., Mar. 18, 6 pm-9 pm. Meets third Wed. Palmer Lake Town Hall, 28 Valley Crescent. Info: 719-481-2953 or https://www.townofpalmerlake.com.
  • Tri-Lakes Wastewater Facility Joint Use Committee meeting, Tue., Mar. 10, 10 am-1 pm. Meets second Tue. 16510 Mitchell Ave. Info: See tlwastewater.com/index.html.
  • Triview Metropolitan District board meeting, Thu., Mar. 19, 5:30 pm-8:30 pm. Usually meets third Thu. In person or via Zoom. 1641 Baja Drive, Monument. Visit www.triviewmetro.com for updates and the agenda listing the Zoom joining codes, or contact 719-488-6868.
  • Village Center Metropolitan District Board Meeting, Tue., Mar. 17, 4 pm-7 pm. Normally meets on the third Tuesday of each month. Serranos Coffee Shop. If the meeting time/location changes, it will be updated on the District’s website: https://villagecentermd.colorado.gov
  • Woodmoor Improvement Association Board Meeting, Wed., Mar. 25, 7 pm-10 pm. Usually meets fourth Wed. Woodmoor Barn, 1691 Woodmoor Dr. Info: 719-488-2693. www.woodmoor.org
  • Woodmoor Water and Sanitation District board meeting, Wed., Mar. 11, 1 pm-5 pm. Normally meets second Mon. 1845 Woodmoor Dr., Monument. Info: 719-488-2525. www.woodmoorwater.com.

WEEKLY & MONTHLY EVENTS

  • A.A. Big Book Study, Thu., Mar. 12, 7 pm-9 pm; Thu., Mar. 19, 7 pm-9 pm; Thu., Mar. 26, 7 pm-9 pm; Thu., Apr. 2, 7 pm-9 pm. Every Thu., 7 pm, Family of Christ Lutheran Church, 675 W. Baptist Rd. Call 425-436-6200, access code 575176#
  • AARP Black Forest #1100, Wed., Mar. 11, 11:30 am-1 pm. Second Wed., In-person Black Forest Lutheran Church, 12455 Black Forest Rd. All ages welcome. Info: http://www.aarpchapter1100blackforest.com
  • AARP Local Senior Social, Wed., Mar. 25, 1 pm-4 pm. In-person Black Forest Lutheran Church, 12455 Black Forest Rd. Info: http://www.aarpchapter1100blackforest.com
  • Al-Anon for family and friends of alcoholics, Tue., Mar. 10, 7:30 pm-9:30 pm; Thu., Mar. 12, 7:30 pm-9:30 pm; Tue., Mar. 17, 7:30 pm-9:30 pm; Thu., Mar. 19, 7:30 pm-9:30 pm; Tue., Mar. 24, 7:30 pm-9:30 pm; Thu., Mar. 26, 7:30 pm-9:30 pm; Tue., Mar. 31, 7:30 pm-9:30 pm; Thu., Apr. 2, 7:30 pm-9:30 pm. Every Tue. & Thu., 7:30 pm, 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 meeting: Letting Go, Thu., Mar. 12, 9 am-10:15 am; Thu., Mar. 19, 9 am-10:15 am; Thu., Mar. 26, 9 am-10:15 am; Thu., Apr. 2, 9 am-10:15 am. 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 Serenity, Thu., Mar. 12, 9 am-10:15 am; Thu., Mar. 19, 9 am-10:15 am; Thu., Mar. 26, 9 am-10:15 am; Thu., Apr. 2, 9 am-10:15 am. Every Thu., 7 pm, The Church at Woodmoor, 18125 Furrow Road, Monument. For additional information go to www.al-anon-co.org...
  • Alcoholics Anonymous, Tue., Mar. 10, 7:30 pm-9:30 pm; Thu., Mar. 12, 7:30 pm-9:30 pm; Tue., Mar. 17, 7:30 pm-9:30 pm; Thu., Mar. 19, 7:30 pm-9:30 pm; Tue., Mar. 24, 7:30 pm-9:30 pm; Thu., Mar. 26, 7:30 pm-9:30 pm; Tue., Mar. 31, 7:30 pm-9:30 pm; Thu., Apr. 2, 7:30 pm-9:30 pm. Every Tue. & Thu., 7:30 pm 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 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.
  • Amateur Ham Radio WØTLM (Tri-Lakes Monument ham radio Association), Mon., Mar. 16, 6 pm-10 pm. Third Mon. (except December). We will open the doors at 6:00 PM for Connect Time, where members can socialize, meet new people, seek out help, or connect with an Elmer. The business meeting will start at 7:00 PM – a brief business session followed by an educational presentation. Our meetings provide: (1) Information about public service and fun activities, license classes, emergency support, and more. (2) Technical presentations to advance your knowledge of diverse Amateur Radio topics. All amateur ham radio operators or those interested in becoming one are welcome. Tri-Lakes Chamber of Commerce Building, 166 2nd Street, Monument. For details, see www.W0TLM.com.
  • American Legion Tri-Lakes Post 9-11, Wed., Mar. 11, 6:30 pm-9:30 pm. Second Wed., 6:30 pm, Tri-Lakes Chamber of Commerce Community Meeting House, 300 CO Hwy 105, Monument. New members welcome. Info: Visit website at www.trilakespost9-11.org.
  • Benet Hill Monastery Sunday Worship Service, Sun., Mar. 8, 8 am-5 pm; Sun., Mar. 15, 8 am-5 pm; Sun., Mar. 22, 8 am-5 pm; Sun., Mar. 29, 8 am-5 pm. Every Sun., 10:15 am worship service. Let us pray with you, walk in the forest, walk the labyrinth, come and visit prayer sites, Group retreats. 3190 Benet Lane, 80921. Info: (719) 633-0655
  • Bingo night, American Legion post 9-11 Tri-Lakes, Sat., Mar. 14, 6 pm-9 pm; Sat., Mar. 28, 6 pm-9 pm. 2nd and 4th Sat., 6-9 pm, Kings Deer Golf Club, 19255 Royal Troon Dr, Monument.
  • Dementia Caregiver Support Group, Sat., Mar. 14, 9:45 am-11:15 am. Meets monthly, second Sat., 9:45-11:15 am. Meets in-person. Free and open to the public. The Oct. 2025 through Feb. 2026 meetings will be at Falcon’s Nest at Jackson Creek Senior Living, 16601 Jackson Creek Parkway, Monument, CO 80132. Jackson Creek Senior Living has partnered with the Alzheimer’s Association Colorado Chapter to host a six-month in-person support group for families, spouses and caregivers of individuals living with Alzheimer’s or other forms of dementia. The prior meeting place was the First National Bank Monument ( 581 Highway 105, Monument, CO 80132). Registration is required, call 800-272-3900 or email khare@alz.org to register.
  • Friends of Fox Run Park, Thu., Mar. 26, 7 pm-9 pm. Zoom meeting, fourth Thu., 7 pm. Join the growing group volunteering at the park: forest safety, trails, trees, education, special events, more; stay tuned! Email friendsoffoxrunpark@gmail.com. We will email you the link the day of the meeting.
  • Gleneagle Service to Mankind (Sertoma), Wed., Apr. 1, 11:45 am-1 pm; Wed., Mar. 18-Thu., Mar. 19. First and third Wed., 11:45 am to 1 pm. A chapter of Sertoma International, Inc., this is the longest continuously active civic service organization in Northern El Paso County. Serving Together, Growing Community. First Wednesday lunch meetings include a program speaker of current local interest.  The third Wednesday events vary,  generally evening functions. Youth & Youth Leadership, First Responders, and Hearing & Speech Healthcare, the sponsorship projects’ objectives.  Contact Larry Oliver for meeting location and other information. lco69@icloud.com or 719-313-6357.
  • Gleneagle Women’s Club, membership luncheon, Mon., Mar. 16-Tue., Mar. 17. Third Fri., (Sep.-June), various venues, 12 activity groups, i.e., hiking, bridge, etc. Guests welcome. For information contact Marcie at 520-205-0578.
  • Lions Club Bingo, Sat., Mar. 14, 8:30 am-1 pm; Sat., Mar. 21, 8:30 am-1 pm; Sat., Mar. 28, 8:30 am-1 pm. 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.
  • Mind Quest – Game Day Sundays, Sun., Mar. 8, 1 pm-5 pm; Sun., Mar. 15, 1 pm-5 pm; Sun., Mar. 22, 1 pm-5 pm; Sun., Mar. 29, 1 pm-5 pm. Bring your own game or borrow one of ours. Info at mindquestpuzzles.com. Mind Quest Puzzles and Games. 872 Highway 105, Palmer Lake, CO. 80133.  
  • Mind Quest Speed Puzzling Competitions – Pairs, Mon., Mar. 9, 5:45 pm-8 pm. Check-in: 5:45 pm, Start Time 6 pm. Solos – First Mon., Pairs – Second Mon., and Teams – Third Mon. Two hours to complete a 500-piece puzzle. Info and registration at mindquestpuzzles.com. Events held at Mind Quest Puzzles and Games. 872 Highway 105, Palmer Lake, CO. 80133.  
  • Mind Quest Speed Puzzling Competitions – Teams, Mon., Mar. 16, 5:45 pm-8 pm. Check-in: 5:45 pm, Start Time 6 pm. Solos – First Mon., Pairs – Second Mon., and Teams – Third Mon. Two hours to complete a 500-piece puzzle. Info and registration at mindquestpuzzles.com. Events held at Mind Quest Puzzles and Games. 872 Highway 105, Palmer Lake, CO. 80133.  
  • Monument Hill Kiwanis Club meeting, Sat., Mar. 7, 8 am-10 am; Sat., Mar. 14, 8 am-10 am; Sat., Mar. 21, 8 am-10 am; Sat., Mar. 28, 8 am-10 am; Sat., Apr. 4, 8 am-10 am. 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, Mon., Mar. 9, 6:30 pm-7:30 pm; Mon., Mar. 16, 6:30 pm-7:30 pm; Mon., Mar. 23, 6:30 pm-7:30 pm; Mon., Mar. 30, 6:30 pm-7:30 pm. 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: www.liferecoverygroups.com/meetings/life-recovery-group-3/
  • Neighborhood Net Ham Radio, Sat., Mar. 7, 10 am-1 pm; Sat., Mar. 14, 10 am-1 pm; Sat., Mar. 21, 10 am-1 pm; Sat., Mar. 28, 10 am-1 pm; Sat., Apr. 4, 10 am-1 pm. 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., Mar. 14, 10 am-12 pm. Usually meets bi-monthly (Jan., Mar, May, July, Sep., Nov.) the 2nd Sat., Woodmoor Barn, 1691 Woodmoor Dr. Members of local HOAs are welcome. www.nepco.org.
  • Palmer Divide Quiltmakers, Thu., Apr. 2, 6:30 pm-8:30 pm. First Thu., 6:30-8:30 pm (doors open at 6 pm) at Monument Hill Church, 18725 Monument Hill Rd, Monument, CO 80132.. Note: Dec. 4, 2025 meeting 5:00-7:30 pm at the Woodmoor Barn Community Center, 1691 Woodmoor Dr, Monument, CO 80132. https://palmerdividequilters.com.
  • Palmer Lake Art Group, Sat., Mar. 14, 9:30 am-11:30 am. Second Sat., 9:30 am. 300 Hwy 105, NE corner of I-25 and 105. For art programs, social gathering and business meetings. Guests welcome. Info: 719-460-4179, https://palmerlakeartgroup.co...
  • Palmer Lake Historical Society, Thu., Mar. 19, 7 pm-8 pm. The PLHS normally meets (open to the public) on the third Thursday at 7 p.m. – 8 p.m. at the Palmer Lake Town Hall, 42 Valley Crescent St. Guest speakers, free to the public. Info: Kokesdm@yahoo.com, or visit www.palmerdividehistory.org
  • Pikes Peak Genealogical Society, Wed., Mar. 11, 6:30 pm-9:30 pm. Zoom meeting, second Wed., 6:30pm: Zoom hangout. 7 pm, meeting starts. Monthly special speaker programs. For zoom meeting details contact: president@ppgs.org. Info: www.ppgs.org. At the Mar. 11th meeting, Rebecca Whitman Koford, CG, CGL will talk “Indirect Evidence Finding What Was Not Written.”  
  • Relentless Recovery, Recovery Gathering, Mon., Mar. 9, 7:30 pm-8:30 pm; Mon., Mar. 23, 7:30 pm-8:30 pm. 2nd and 4th Mon., 7:30-8:30 pm, hybrid zoom and in person at Lake & Lantern Cafe, 84 CO-105 #2, Palmer Lake. “All humans welcome.” To register: https://hardbeauty.life/dyr/.
  • Ridgeview Baptist Church, Sun., Mar. 8, 10:30 am-12 pm; Sun., Mar. 15, 10:30 am-12 pm; Sun., Mar. 22, 10:30 am-12 pm; Sun., Mar. 29, 10:30 am-12 pm. Every Sun., 10:30 am, temporarily meeting at 9130 Explorer Dr., Colorado Springs, 80920. Info: 719-357-6515 or www.ridgeviewcolorado.org.
  • St. Matthias Sunday Services, Sun., Mar. 8, 10 am-11:30 am; Sun., Mar. 15, 10 am-11:30 am; Sun., Mar. 22, 10 am-11:30 am; Sun., Mar. 29, 10 am-11:30 am. 10 am. Join us at St. Matthias Episcopal Church, 18320 Furrow Road, Monument. Traditional worship and meaningful fellowship in a loving church community. https://www.saint-matthias.org. 
  • The Renovation Church, Sun., Mar. 8, 10 am-11:30 am; Sun., Mar. 15, 10 am-11:30 am; Sun., Mar. 22, 10 am-11:30 am; Sun., Mar. 29, 10 am-11:30 am. Service every Sun., 10 am. Phil Long Music Hall, 13071 Bass Pro Dr., Colorado Springs. A Place to Belong. Real people with Real problems serving a Real God who Really loves us. www.TheRenovationChurch.org
  • Tri-Lakes Chamber of Commerce Networking Breakfast, Thu., Mar. 19, 7:30 am-9 am; Thu., Apr. 2, 7:30 am-9 am. 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 Cruisers, Wed., Apr. 1, 7 pm-10 pm. 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: https://www.trilakescruisers.com.
  • Tri-Lakes Dynamic Rotary Club Meeting, Thu., Mar. 19, 6 pm-8 pm; Thu., Apr. 2, 6 pm-8 pm. 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, Sat., Mar. 21, 10 am-12 pm. 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, Fri., Mar. 20, 11:30 am-1:30 pm. Third Fri., 11:30 am. 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.
  • Veterans of Foreign Wars (VFW) Post 7829, Wed., Mar. 18, 7 pm-10 pm. Third Wed., 7 pm, Tri-Lakes Chamber of Commerce community room, 166 2nd St., Monument. New members welcome. Info: Post Commander and POC Rodney Fetterman, rwfette@gmail.com. 
  • Women’s A. A. Step Study, Mon., Mar. 9, 6:30 pm-8:30 pm; Mon., Mar. 16, 6:30 pm-8:30 pm; Mon., Mar. 23, 6:30 pm-8:30 pm; Mon., Mar. 30, 6:30 pm-8:30 pm. 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.

SPECIAL EVENTS

  • Our Community News: volunteer mailing days, Thu., Mar. 5, 7 am-8:30 am. 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.
  • Lewis-Palmer School District 38 19th Annual Chess Tournament, Sat., Mar. 7, 7:30 am-2 pm.   Sat., Mar. 7, Registration begins 7:30. Please arrive by 8:15 am, Tournament: 9 am – 2 pm. Bear Creek Elementary School, 1330 Creekside Dr., Monument, CO 80132. The tournament is FREE and open to all students, from kindergarten through high school who are students in School District #38 or live within the District #38 boundaries. We will play four rounds and the tournament should be over by 2 p.m. Chess sets will be provided. Children should bring their own snacks. However, we will be selling hot dogs, pizza, and sodas so that we can raise a little money to offset expenses. If you have any questions, contact Steve Waldmann, the Tournament Director and Bear Creek Elementary Chess Club Coach, at huskerco@gmail.com . Also, if you know of an adult who would like to be one of our Tournament Referees, please have them contact Mr. Waldmann. Pre-registration is strongly encouraged so we can order sufficient trophies and medals for all participants. Pre-register each student at: https://tinyurl.com/yestjaxc 
  • Silver Key Tri-Lakes – Powerful Tools for Caregivers, Sat., Mar. 7, 10 am-11:30 am. Monument Community Presbyterian Church, 238 Third St., Monument, CO 80132. Caregiving can be a challenge, but it’s easier when you’re prepared. This six-week class series gives you the confidence and support to better care for your loved one – and yourself. Class is free to attend, donations are accepted. Pre-registration required. Go to mcpc.live/register. info@silverkey.org. 719-884-2300.
  • Tri-Lakes Dynamic Rotary and Trinity Lutheran Church – Annual Bunco Night, Sat., Mar. 7, 5 pm-8 pm. Sat., Mar. 7, 5 pm doors open. Trinity Lutheran Church, 17750 Knollwood Drive, Monument 80132. An energetic evening of Bunco play with prizes. The evening’s festivities include a silent auction with items donated by local businesses, food trucks with food for purchase, free desserts and drinks, and free childcare. All are welcome. Players must be at least 13. Inclusive and accessible for everyone. Info: Tamara Schwarz, tamara@trinitymonument.org, 719-351-0179
  • St. Matthias Special Sunday School Program, Sun., Mar. 8, 9:45 am-11 am. Join us at St. Matthias Episcopal Church, 18320 Furrow Road, Monument for a Special Sunday School Program Preschool through 5th grade welcome! For more info: stmatthias@comcast.net, 719-426-9809.  https://www.saint-matthias.org.
  • Trinity Lutheran Church Presentation of the Film “1946 The Mistranslation That Shifted Culture”, Sun., Mar. 8, 4 pm-6 pm. Sun., Mar. 8 & Sun., Mar. 15. 4-6 pm. Woodmoor Barn, 1691 Woodmoor Dr., Monument, CO 80132. 1946 is a feature documentary that follows the story of tireless researchers who trace the origins of the anti-gay movement among Christians to a grave mistranslation of the Bible. It chronicles the discovery of never-before-seen archives at Yale University which unveil astonishing new revelations, and casts significant doubt on any biblical basis for LGBTQIA+ prejudice. One half of the documentary will be shown on March 8th and the second half will be shown on March 15th. We will have time at the end of each of those times for thoughtful discussion. This is a free event. Monument 80132. All are welcome! Free. Inclusive and accessible for everyone. Info: 719-481-3072.
  • Charlotte’s Web, Fri., Mar. 13, 6:30 pm-8 pm.   Encore Community Arts is proud to present Charlotte’s Web by E.B. White, adapted by Joseph Robinette. At Trinity Lutheran Church, 17750 Knollwood Drive, Monument 80132Friday, March 13th 6:30 PMSaturday, March 14th 2:00 PMSaturday, March 14th 6:30 PMTickets: www.encorecommunityarts.org$1 OFF with code OCN2026Group Pricing Available: encoreartsco@gmail.com
  • Silver Key Tri-Lakes – Powerful Tools for Caregivers, Sat., Mar. 14, 10 am-11:30 am. Monument Community Presbyterian Church, 238 Third St., Monument, CO 80132. Caregiving can be a challenge, but it’s easier when you’re prepared. This six-week class series gives you the confidence and support to better care for your loved one – and yourself. Class is free to attend, donations are accepted. Pre-registration required. Go to mcpc.live/register. info@silverkey.org. 719-884-2300.
  • Monument Hill Kiwanis Club – Stars of Tomorrow Dress Rehearsal, Sat., Mar. 14, 11 am-4 pm. Sat., Mar. 14, 11 am-4 pm, Palmer Ridge High School, 19255 Monument Hill Road, Monument, CO. Participants must live within Lewis-Palmer School District D-38 borders or attend a D38 school. For additional show information please email Rich Strom: rsappraisals_6@msn.com        
  • Charlotte’s Web, Fri., Mar. 13, 6:30 pm-8 pm, Sat., Mar. 14, 2 pm-4 pm and 6:30 pm-8 pm. Encore Community Arts is proud to present Charlotte’s Web by E.B. White, adapted by Joseph Robinette. At Trinity Lutheran Church, 17750 Knollwood Drive, Monument 80132. Tickets: www.encorecommunityarts.orgGroup Pricing Available: encoreartsco@gmail.com
  • Monument Community Presbyterian Church – Panel Discussion on Home and Food Insecurity, Sun., Mar. 15, 11:15 am-12:15 pm. Panelists from Tri-Lakes Cares, Family Promise, Springs Rescue Mission, and La Puente. 238 3rd St, Monument 80132. 719-481-3902
  • Monument Hill Kiwanis Club – Stars of Tomorrow Performance, Sun., Mar. 15, 2 pm-5 pm. Sun., Mar. 15, 2 – 5 pm, Palmer Ridge High School, 19255 Monument Hill Road, Monument, CO. Participants must live within Lewis-Palmer School District D-38 borders or attend a D38 school. For additional show information please email Rich Strom: rsappraisals_6@msn.com        
  • Trinity Lutheran Church Presentation of the Film “1946 The Mistranslation That Shifted Culture”, Sun., Mar. 15, 4 pm-6 pm. Sun., Mar. 8 & Sun., Mar. 15. 4-6 pm. Woodmoor Barn, 1691 Woodmoor Dr., Monument, CO 80132. 1946 is a feature documentary that follows the story of tireless researchers who trace the origins of the anti-gay movement among Christians to a grave mistranslation of the Bible. It chronicles the discovery of never-before-seen archives at Yale University which unveil astonishing new revelations, and casts significant doubt on any biblical basis for LGBTQIA+ prejudice. One half of the documentary will be shown on March 8th and the second half will be shown on March 15th. We will have time at the end of each of those times for thoughtful discussion. This is a free event. Monument 80132. All are welcome! Free. Inclusive and accessible for everyone. Info: 719-481-3072.
  • Monument Hill Kiwanis Club – Dine to Donate, Wed., Mar. 18, 3:30 pm-10 pm. Texas Roadhouse Fundraiser 10% Donation Night. 16196 Jackson Creek Pkwy, Monument location only. Dine In or Carry Out. Raising funds for the Heart of Monument Play Park. 719-481-9980. Printable flyer at https://heartofmonument.org/whats-happening.         
  • Monumental Impact – Networking Night, Thu., Mar. 19, 5:30 pm-7 pm. Thu., Feb. 19, 5:30–7 pm; Thu., Mar. 19, 5:30–7 pm; Thu., Apr. 16, 5:30–7 pm. Introduction to the makerspace, programs, and how to get involved. Community Makerspace (“a space to make”): A nonprofit enabling a community of makers, artists, tinkers and entrepreneurs sharing equipment resources like 3D Printers, lasers, CNCs and more welcoming guests interested in hands-on making, creativity, and collaboration. Hosted by Monumental Impact. 866 Hwy 105, Palmer Lake. Info: https://monumentalimpact.org  
  • Estate Sale, Fri.-Sun., Mar. 20-22, 9 am-5 pm, Sun. 10 am-4 pm. 2359 Pine Valley View, Colorado Springs, 80920. See ad on page < 24 > for details.
  • Covered Treasures Bookstore : The Scribbling Woman Workshop, Sat., Mar. 21, 1 pm-3 pm. A 90-minute interactive workshop with Nancy Rue, author of The Scribbling Woman. This will be a fun, hands-on experience for any female, writer or not, who wants to live a life that supports her dreams, her talents, and her authentic self. 30-minute Q&A. Seating is limited. $50 includes admission, Nancy Rue’s book, and a gift. Purchase tickets in advance at Covered Treasures Bookstore, 105 Second Street, Monument, 719-481-2665.  
  • Monumental Impact – Orientation, Sat., Mar. 21, 2 pm-3 pm. Sat, Mar 21, 2 am – 3 pm; Sat., Apr. 4, 2 am – 3 pm. Community Makerspace (“a space to make”): A nonprofit enabling a community of makers, artists, tinkers and entrepreneurs sharing equipment resources like 3D Printers, lasers, CNCs and more welcoming guests interested in hands-on making, creativity, and collaboration. Hosted by Monumental Impact. 866 Hwy 105, Palmer Lake. Info: https://monumentalimpact.org  
  • Western Museum of Mining and Industry, Spring Break Camp, Tue.-Thu., Mar. 24-26, 9 am-12 pm or 1 pm – 4 pm. 225 Northgate Blvd, Colorado Springs 80921. Join us for a camp of adventure, excitement, and non-stop fun. Designed for grades 3-5. Tue., Mar. 24, AM session: Mining, PM session: Industry. Wed., Mar. 25, AM session: Geology, PM session: Chemistry. Thu. Mar. 26, AM session: Electricity, PM session: Physics. $30 per student per session. wmmi.org. info@wmmi.org. 719-488-0880.
  • Monumental Impact – Maker Showcase, Fri., Mar. 27, 4:30 pm-6 pm. Fri., Mar. 27, 4:30–6 pm. Meet makers, mentors, and entrepreneurs – relaxed end-of-quarter community showcase. Community Makerspace (“a space to make”): A nonprofit enabling a community of makers, artists, tinkers and entrepreneurs sharing equipment resources like 3D Printers, lasers, CNCs and more welcoming guests interested in hands-on making, creativity, and collaboration. Hosted by Monumental Impact. 866 Hwy 105, Palmer Lake. Info: https://monumentalimpact.org  
  • St. Matthias Palm Sunday Service, Sun., Mar. 29, 10 am-11:30 am. Join us at St. Matthias Episcopal Church, 18320 Furrow Road, Monument. For more info: stmatthias@comcast.net, 719-426-9809. https://www.saint-matthias.org
  • Civility in the City, Mon., Mar. 30, 6:30 pm-10 pm. Berger Hall, UCCS Campus. $10 fee. Reclaiming Civility presents an evening with Maury Giles, CEO of Braver Angels ((https://braverangels.org), and best-selling author Alexandra Hudson ((https://www.civic-renaissance.com). Info and tickets at https://reclaimingcivility.com. See ad on page < 8 >.
  • Our Community News: volunteer mailing days, Thu., Apr. 2, 7 am-8:30 am. 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.
  • St. Matthias Maundy Thursday Service, Thu., Apr. 2, 7 pm-8:30 pm. Join us at St. Matthias Episcopal Church, 18320 Furrow Road, Monument. For more info: stmatthias@comcast.net, 719-426-9809. https://www.saint-matthias.org
  • St. Matthias Good Friday Service, Fri., Apr. 3, 12 pm-1:30 pm. Join us at St. Matthias Episcopal Church, 18320 Furrow Road, Monument. For more info: stmatthias@comcast.net, 719-426-9809. https://www.saint-matthias.org
  • OCN Publication, Sat., Apr. 4-Sun., Apr. 5. We are all volunteers at OCN and need YOUR help. Become an OCN reporter! Help us report ‘What was discussed and what was decided.’ Contact me TODAY! JohnHeiser@ocn.me or (719) 488-3455.
  • Monumental Impact – Orientation, Sat., Apr. 4, 2 pm-3 pm. Sat, Mar 21, 2 am – 3 pm; Sat., Apr. 4, 2 am – 3 pm. Community Makerspace (“a space to make”): A nonprofit enabling a community of makers, artists, tinkers and entrepreneurs sharing equipment resources like 3D Printers, lasers, CNCs and more welcoming guests interested in hands-on making, creativity, and collaboration. Hosted by Monumental Impact. 866 Hwy 105, Palmer Lake. Info: https://monumentalimpact.org  
  • St. Matthias Easter Sunday Service, Sun., Apr. 5, 10 am-11:30 am. Join us at St. Matthias Episcopal Church, 18320 Furrow Road, Monument. For more info: stmatthias@comcast.net, 719-426-9809. https://www.saint-matthias.org
  • Monumental Impact – Networking Night, Thu., Apr. 16, 5:30 pm-7 pm. Thu., Feb. 19, 5:30–7 pm; Thu., Mar. 19, 5:30–7 pm; Thu., Apr. 16, 5:30–7 pm. Introduction to the makerspace, programs, and how to get involved. Community Makerspace (“a space to make”): A nonprofit enabling a community of makers, artists, tinkers and entrepreneurs sharing equipment resources like 3D Printers, lasers, CNCs and more welcoming guests interested in hands-on making, creativity, and collaboration. Hosted by Monumental Impact. 866 Hwy 105, Palmer Lake. Info: https://monumentalimpact.org  
  • Annual Black Forest Arts and Crafts Guild Spring Craft Show, Wed.-Sun, Apr. 29-May 3, Wed. 4 pm-7 pm. Thu.-Sat. 9 am-7 pm. Sun. 10 am-2 pm Black Forest Community Center, 12530 Black Forest Rd., Black Forest, CO 80908. Join us for our beautiful spring show.  Many new and unique gifts, fine art and decor for your home. Mother’s day gifts and of course, our huge selection of culinary delights. For more information about the show, guild members and pictures of the show, see us at bfacg.org or www.facebook.com/BFACG. Contact phone 719-330-7443. Cost: Free
  • OCN Publication, Sat., May 2-Sun., May 3. We are all volunteers at OCN and need YOUR help. Become an OCN reporter! Help us report ‘What was discussed and what was decided.’ Contact me TODAY! JohnHeiser@ocn.me or (719) 488-3455.
  • Taste of Tri-Lakes Cares, Wed., May 13, 5:30 pm-10 pm. Spruce Mountain Events. Doors open at 5:30 pm. Join us for an evening of great food and fun! Early Bird Tickets $60. $75 after March18. No sales at the door. Benefitting Tri-Lakes Cares. Info: Katie Guillory, 719-370-1317. https://tri-lakescares.org. See ad on page < 11 >.
  • YMCA Summer Day Camp, Tue., May 26-Wed., May 27. Kicks off May 26. Weekly sessions offered through Aug. 7. Join us for one week or all summer long! For questions or more information: ppymca.org/daycamp. See ad on page < 6 >.
  • Mountain View Electric Annual Meeting, Thu., Jun. 4, 5 pm-8 pm. Registration will begin at 5 p.m. The business meeting will begin at 6:30 p.m. Limon Public Schools building in Limon, 912 Badger Way, Limon, CO 80828. The purposes of the meeting are 1) To elect two directors for the Association: One from District 2 and one from District 7; 2) To approve the minutes of the 2025 Annual Meeting of Members; 3) To report on financial transactions during the 2025 calendar year; and 4) To conduct any other business. Info: mvea.coop/community/annual-meeting-of-members/. District 2 consists of Simla, Matheson, and a portion of the surrounding areas (incumbent Rick L. Gordon). District 7 consists of Monument, Woodmoor, and a portion of the surrounding areas (incumbent Jim Riggins)
  • OCN Publication, Sat., Jun. 6-Sun., Jun. 7. We are all volunteers at OCN and need YOUR help. Become an OCN reporter! Help us report ‘What was discussed and what was decided.’ Contact me TODAY! JohnHeiser@ocn.me or (719) 488-3455.

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 Calendar articles

Bionic Sharks advance to State Championship

Monument’s robotics team, the Bionic Sharks, advanced to the Colorado State Championship at Colorado School of Mines on Feb. 15. They received the REACH Award for outstanding community outreach. The award came with a $2,000 check. The team earned the right to compete in the championship by winning its second qualifier of the season at the Southern Qualifier at Manitou Springs High School on Feb. 7. From left are Alexandra Epstein, Nate Johnson, Alexandra Gonzalez, Pranav Balaji, Corey Cinalli, Brandon Johnson, Jeanette Breton, and Mike Hinkle. Photo by Robert Dawkins.
Monument’s robotics team, the Bionic Sharks advanced to the Colorado State Championship at Colorado School of Mines on Feb. 15. They received the REACH Award for outstanding community outreach. The award came with a $2,000 check. The team earned the right to compete in the championship by winning its second qualifier of the season at the Southern Qualifier at Manitou Springs High School on Feb. 7. From left are Alexandra Gonzalez, Pranav Balaji and Corey Cinalli. Photo by Mike Hinkle.
Monument’s robotics team, the Bionic Sharks advanced to the Colorado State Championship at Colorado School of Mines on Feb. 15. They received the REACH Award for outstanding community outreach. The award came with a $2,000 check. The team earned the right to compete in the championship by winning its second qualifier of the season at the Southern Qualifier at Manitou Springs High School on Feb. 7. From left are Pranav Balaji, Corey Cinalli, Alexandra Gonzalez, Alexandra Epstein, Anushka Nandwalker, and Brandon Johnson. Photo by Mike Hinkle.

Kiwanis Stars of Tomorrow Auditions, Feb. 21 & 22

What do eight singers, four pianists, one gymnast, a cellist, a violinist, a violist, one dancer, a trumpeter, a baritone sax player and two make-believe pirates have in common? They’ll all compete for cash prizes in the Monument Hill Kiwanis Club’s Stars of Tomorrow talent contest on March 15 at Palmer Ridge High School. A record number of more than 50 students showed off their talents at auditions on Feb. 21 and 22 at Big Red. Two fifth graders from Palmer Lake Elementary, Emmalyse Schaffer and Anna Bearden, played pirates in a performance they wrote themselves. There were two sets of brothers and sisters. Singers Benton and Hadley Miles will compete with other high school students for prizes of $2,000 and $1,000. Violist Katherine Rose Johnson made the cut in the middle school division and her older brother Austin, a violinist, will perform against high schoolers. Middle school prizes range from $750 to $500. The elementary school winner will take home $500. One 11-year-old from Palmer Ridge High School, Kenton Klein, didn’t make the cut but earned praise for originality by solving a Rubik’s Cube while answering questions from the judges. Photos by Michael Weinfeld.

Kiwanis Stars of Tomorrow Auditions, Feb. 21 & 22 – from left are Palmer Lake Elementary fifth graders Emmalyse Schaffer and Anna Bearden perform an original play. Photo by Michael Weinfeld.
Kiwanis Stars of Tomorrow Auditions, Feb. 21 & 22 – 18-year-old Palmer Ridge High School student Benton Miles sings a song. Photo by Michael Weinfeld.
Kiwanis Stars of Tomorrow Auditions, Feb. 21 & 22 – 17-year-old Palmer Ridge High School student Hadley Miles sings a song. Photo by Michael Weinfeld.
Kiwanis Stars of Tomorrow Auditions, Feb. 21 & 22 – 15-year-old homeschooled student Katherine Rose Johnson plays the viola. Photo by Michael Weinfeld.
Kiwanis Stars of Tomorrow Auditions, Feb. 21 & 22 – 17-year-old homeschool student Austin Johnson plays the violin. Photo by Michael Weinfeld.
Kiwanis Stars of Tomorrow Auditions, Feb. 21 & 22 – Palmer Ridge High School Junior Madelyn LaPaorte performs a dance routine. Photo by Michael Weinfeld.
Kiwanis Stars of Tomorrow Auditions, Feb. 21 & 22 – Lewis-Palmer High School student Chloe Jarrell sings a song. Photo by Michael Weinfeld.
Kiwanis Stars of Tomorrow Auditions, Feb. 21 & 22 – Palmer Ridge High School student Lana Elliott Field plays the cello. Photo by Michael Weinfeld.
Kiwanis Stars of Tomorrow Auditions, Feb. 21 & 22 – Palmer Ridge High School 11th grader Xavier Gonzales. Photo by Michael Weinfeld.
Kiwanis Stars of Tomorrow Auditions, Feb. 21 & 22 – Lewis-Palmer High School junior Evan Marsh plays the trumpet. Photo by Michael Weinfeld.
Kiwanis Stars of Tomorrow Auditions, Feb. 21 & 22 – Lewis-Palmer Middle School student Elle Gustin plays the piano. Photo by Michael Weinfeld.
Kiwanis Stars of Tomorrow Auditions, Feb. 21 & 22 – Eight-year-old Lewis-Palmer Elementary School student Collins Carpenter performs a gymnastics routine. Photo by Michael Weinfeld.
Kiwanis Stars of Tomorrow Auditions, Feb. 21 & 22 – 12-year-old Monument Academy student Alyson Horne sings and plays guitar. Photo by Michael Weinfeld.
Kiwanis Stars of Tomorrow Auditions, Feb. 21 & 22 – Palmer Ridge High School sophomore Ryleigh McFarland sings a song. Photo by Michael Weinfeld.
Kiwanis Stars of Tomorrow Auditions, Feb. 21 & 22 – Palmer Ridge High School senior Bonneyclaire Patterson plays baritone sax. Photo by Michael Weinfeld.
Kiwanis Stars of Tomorrow Auditions, Feb. 21 & 22 – Lewis-Palmer Middle School fifth grader Jack Wittenborn playing piano. Photo by Michael Weinfeld.
Kiwanis Stars of Tomorrow Auditions, Feb. 21 & 22 – Lewis-Palmer High School 12th grader Jonathan Lilley singing a showtune. Photo by Michael Weinfeld.
Kiwanis Stars of Tomorrow Auditions, Feb. 21 & 22 – Palmer Ridge Junior Mia Claypool playing piano and harmonica while singing a Billy Joel song.. Photo by Michael Weinfeld.
Kiwanis Stars of Tomorrow Auditions, Feb. 21 & 22 – Prairie Winds Elementary School 5th grader Esther Hunt playing piano. Photo by Michael Weinfeld.
Kiwanis Stars of Tomorrow Auditions, Feb. 21 & 22 – Lewis-Palmer Middle School student Kaiya Powell sings. Photo by Michael Weinfeld.

Paper Tigers – Origami is paper engineering, Feb. 20

Connie Stanton, (standing) leads a class called “Paper Tigers” on third Fridays where students learn 2-3 new  designs each time. On February 20, the Monument Library held an origami class for the experience of creating small paper sculptures with children and adults. Many of the children had a lot of experience making these small artworks, while it was a new attempt for some of the adults. Each person took a flat sheet of paper and engineered it with a specific series of manipulations, and were able to create animals, contrive convoluted forms into a ball shape that could bounce, and a frog made as a toy that could hop and race the other frog toys. Shown below is a mouse bookmark. Photo by Janet Sellers.
On February 20, the Monument Library held an origami class for the experience of creating small paper sculptures with children and adults. Photo by Janet Sellers.
On February 20, the Monument Library held an origami class for the experience of creating small paper sculptures with children and adults. Photo by Janet Sellers.
On February 20, the Monument Library held an origami class for the experience of creating small paper sculptures with children and adults. Photo by Janet Sellers.

D38 Lady Rangers recognized, Feb. 18

Five seniors playing for Lewis Palmer Lady Rangers basketball team were recognized after the game against Discovery Canyon on Feb. 18.  The seniors were recognized with their parents in a ceremony following the game. The Lady Rangers beat Discovery Canyon in this final game  before the playoffs. Photo by Steve Pate.
Pictured is Aubrey Gross and her parents, Jason and Shannon Gross. Aubrey was one of five seniors who were recognized with their parents in a ceremony following the game against Discovery Canyon. She plans to attend Utah State. Photo by Steve Pate

D38 Senior Rylee Edmondson scores 1,000, Feb. 6

During a varsity basketball game at Cheyenne Mountain, Rylee Edmondson, a senior at Lewis Palmer High School, scored her 1,000th point on Feb. 6. The game was stopped to recognize this accomplishment. Photo by Steve Pate

Monument Hill Kiwanis presents bell ringing check to Salvation Army

Monument Hill Kiwanis Club (MHKC)  has turned over the money it made ringing the bell for the Salvation Army. A check for $29,869.29 (later rounded up to $30,000) was presented to the Colorado Springs Salvation Army (SA) on Jan. 31. Members of Kiwanis, Tri-Lakes Women’s Club and Lewis-Palmer D38 Key Club members spent 375 hours ringing the bell during the last holiday season. In the photo from left are MHKC Assistant Project Manager Mark Zeiger, SA representative Jeanette Bernstein, SA Major Nancy Bell, MHKC Project Manager Jeff Baker and MHCK President Jim Head. Photo by Warren Gerig.

Rotary Club raises money for Play Park

Tri-Lakes Dynamic Rotary Club has raised $2,256 that will go toward the planned Heart of Monument Play Park. Club President Maryam Eaton and club executive Katie Lenger presented a check to the Monument Hill Kiwanis Club on Feb. 14. The money was raised at the Glow Bingo event held Jan.23 at Monument Community Presbyterian Church. The Play Park is a joint project between Kiwanis, the church, and the Town of Monument. So far, Kiwanis has raised more than $300,000 in donations and pledges for the park. The club hopes the park will be open by late this summer or early fall.

Tri-Lakes Dynamic Rotary Club has raised $2,256 that will go toward the planned Heart of Monument Play Park. Club President Maryam Eaton and club executive Katie Lenger presented a check to the Monument Hill Kiwanis Club on Feb. 14.. In the photo from left are Kiwanian Scott Ross, Eaton, Kiwanian Dean Snow, Lenger, and Kiwanian President Jim Head. Photo by Warren Gerig.
Tri-Lakes Dynamic Rotary Club has raised $2,256 that will go toward the planned Heart of Monument Play Park. The money was raised at the Glow Bingo event held Jan.23 at Monument Community Presbyterian Church. In photo is Laurie Beasley calling out numbers at the Glow Bingo event. Photo by Maryam Eaton.

Lewis-Palmer School District 38 Arts Education Advisory Committee, Feb. 9

On February 9, Joseph Jesse (left) and Micaela Cimino  gave a talk on the importance of engagement in the arts during the education years at a D38  gathering of interested school staff and citizens. The pair offered highlights from the years of their respective pursuits in the arts and entertainment industries and how the arts develop creative and engaged lives and careers. They are the owners of Bella Art and Frame Gallery in Monument.  Photo by Janet Sellers.