John DeFrancesco is the Palmer Lake Arts Council’s spotlighted artist for May 2026. DeFrancesco has been a local painter for over 30 years. His art focuses on the natural beauty of plants and gardens. DeFrancesco said he’s “driven to record nature emotionally, not simply artistically.” He continued, “I work to capture, not just an impression of what I see, but an interpretation of what I feel.” He was influenced by Manet and his uncle Andy who was a commercial artist in New York. DeFrancesco has won many awards including from the Palmer Lake Arts Group, the Pikes Peak Library District, and the U.S. Air Force Academy. His art is on display at Bella Art and Frame in Monument. Photo by Tati McAlister.
Readers should assume that event information published in this newsletter is subject to change and information should be confirmed a day or two before the event by calling the information number or checking the organization’s website. See page < 22 > and page < 23 > or check wp.ocn.me/events for event locations and other details of these and many other local events.
OCN Mailing Days, Thu., June 4, approx. 7-8:30 am. If you can help, even for an hour or two, getting the papers ready to mail, contact AllenAlchian@ocn.me or (719) 488-3455.
With our new on-line calendar, you can easily search for your favorite events, view upcoming events in a variety of formats (daily, weekly, monthly, etc.) and add events of interest to the calendar on your mobile device or computer.
Want your event listed in our on-line and print calendar?
Our Community Calendar carries listings 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. Complimentary calendar listings are included, when requested, for events advertised in the current issue. Click the button below to request listing of your events.
AI-Generated Highlights of the Monument Town Council meeting, May 4
Below are AI-generated highlights of the Monument Town Council meeting May 4. The timestamps in parentheses indicate the approximate points in the video of the meeting where the topics were discussed. Our June 6th issue will have detailed coverage of this meeting.
Public Comment on Design Standards: Resident Karen Leseberg addressed the council regarding the importance of implementing enhanced design standards for commercial and residential developments. She specifically advocated for natural color palettes and architectural features that better harmonize with Monument’s natural environment. (00:01:59)
National Police Week Proclamation: Lieutenant Mitch Mahalko presented a proclamation recognizing May 10th through May 16th as Police Week in Monument. The proclamation honored the service and sacrifice of law enforcement officers, noting that 111 officers were killed in the line of duty in 2025. (00:05:51)
Introduction of Draft Roadway Design Standards (RDS) Manual: Staff introduced a comprehensive update to the town’s Roadway and Pavement Design Standards Manual, which had not been updated since 2010. The new draft aims to modernize engineering practices and provide clear, consistent standards for future capital projects and private developments. (00:09:50)
Expanded Infrastructure Permitting Framework: The proposed RDS manual introduces new required permits, including haul route, encroachment, special transport, and excavation permits. These additions are designed to give the town more oversight over construction impacts and better protect the longevity of public roadways. (00:25:35)
Approval of Alpine Dealership Final PUD Plan: The council approved Ordinance 09-2026, granting the final Planned Unit Development (PUD) plan for a Buick GMC dealership at the Falcon Commerce Center. The approval includes specific conditions regarding vehicle display areas and surface materials. (01:01:46)
Compromise on Dealership Signage: Following concerns raised at a previous meeting, the applicant agreed to replace their original request for a 35-foot pylon sign with two 10-foot monument signs. This change was made to remain in compliance with town signage codes while still providing visibility for the dealership. (01:05:13)
Clarification on Building Materials: The council discussed the use of architectural metal panels on the dealership buildings, clarifying that these high-quality components differ from the “all-metal” industrial structures discouraged by existing guidelines. The applicant provided a legal opinion stating that the final plan’s consistency with the preliminary PUD allowed for these variations. (01:06:40)
Repeal and Readoption of Title 9: Council passed Ordinance 12-2026 to update Title 9 of the Monument Municipal Code. This update, covering public peace and welfare, was necessary to bring the code into conformance with the Town Charter. (01:28:44)
Official Renaming to “Doc Close Road”: Following a community contest, the council approved Resolution 30-2026 to officially rename a section of Old Denver Road to “Doc Close Road”. The name was selected to reflect local history and identity. (01:40:18)
Adoption of Multi-Hazard Mitigation Plan: Council passed Resolution 31-2026 to adopt the Pikes Peak Regional Multi-Hazard Mitigation Plan. Maintaining this FEMA-approved plan is required for the town to remain eligible for federal hazard mitigation grant funding. (01:42:40)
Quarter 1 2026 Financial Report: Finance staff reported that sales tax collections for the first quarter increased by 20% compared to the previous year. The report also highlighted that town investments earned over $341,000 in interest income during the same period. (01:56:59)
On May 4th, the D38 Career Innovation Center (CIC), 1200 Synthes Avenue in Monument offered a community tour of the new facility. Starting with the 2026-2027 school year, Lewis Palmer and Palmer Ridge students passionate about a pathway in Innovative Programs visual or performing arts can graduate with a Pathway of Distinction after completing a certain number of courses in the pathway, have a 3.5 GPA within the pathway, and complete one or more extra activities or “ands”. Amy Sienkowski (pictured), Director of Innovative Programs, and D38 teachers are working on a menu of options for students to choose from to complete the requirements. Amy showed off the student welders creation of a dancing human tree and some robots as part of their innovation in welding project art. Photo by Gordon ReichalOn May 4th, the D38 Career Innovation Center (CIC), 1200 Synthes Avenue in Monument offered a community tour of the new facility. On display were several welding student shelf art projects using their developing industrial welding skills to create a whimsical group of modern art figures. A large sculpture is also in work at the CIC Welding Class Shop and soon may join the D38 Art Park in Monument north of downtown Big Red. Student creativity and inspiration on display. Great things happening in D38. Come see! Photo by Gordon Reichal
On May 4th, Monument Fire District received delivery of a new ambulance for our community. MFD EMS Coordinator Rachael Peters shared her excitement for this new emergency vehicle contributing to the MFD Mission of “Proudly Serving the Tri-Lakes Region.” Photo by Gordon Reichal.
Over 21,000 copies of our May 2nd issue will be mailed this Thursday. They should be in most mailboxes by Saturday. All the articles, letters, columns, snapshots, notices, and community calendar events are being posted at www.ocn.me. On Friday, the audio files will posted for all the articles and the audio highlights and audio articles podcasts will be broadcast to Spotify, Apple Podcasts, and Pandora and posted on our YouTube channel.
Keep up with fast-moving developments in the Tri-Lakes area with the OCN app!
The OCN app alerts you to upcoming events you don’t want to miss, lists the latest articles, podcasts, photo collections, comments, etc. It updates automatically to keep you informed.
In the screenshot below, the app is reporting 10 new upcoming events including a car show, farmers’ market, D38 school board meeting, and Monument Town Council meeting.
Just click the button below for a description of the latest version of the OCN app and detailed instructions on installing it on your smartphone, tablet, laptop, Chromebook, or desktop computer.
This email is an edition of the Our Community Newsletter. We also offer separate monthly email messages for those interested in information about OCN advertising. If you wish to also receive those email messages, please let me know or click on “manage your subscription” at the bottom of every message I sent. That will take you to a web page where you can update your information and preferences.
If you do not wish to receive future email messages of this type, please let me know at johnheiser@ocn.me and I will take care of it immediately.
Held at the MFD Administrative Offices, 19775 Mitchell Avenue, Monument, CO 80132. This will be a great opportunity to meet the five candidates. For information, visit www.monumentfire.org or contact 719-488-0911.
On May 4th, the D38 Career Innovation Center (CIC), 1200 Synthes Avenue in Monument offered a community tour of the new facility. Starting with the 2026-2027 school year, Lewis Palmer and Palmer Ridge students passionate about a pathway in Innovative Programs visual or performing arts can graduate with a Pathway of Distinction after completing a certain number of courses in the pathway, have a 3.5 GPA within the pathway, and complete one or more extra activities or “ands”. Amy Sienkowski (pictured), Director of Innovative Programs, and D38 teachers are working on a menu of options for students to choose from to complete the requirements. Amy showed off the student welders creation of a dancing human tree and some robots as part of their innovation in welding project art. Photo by Gordon ReichalOn May 4th, the D38 Career Innovation Center (CIC), 1200 Synthes Avenue in Monument offered a community tour of the new facility. On display were several welding student shelf art projects using their developing industrial welding skills to create a whimsical group of modern art figures. A large sculpture is also in work at the CIC Welding Class Shop and soon may join the D38 Art Park in Monument north of downtown Big Red. Student creativity and inspiration on display. Great things happening in D38. Come see! Photo by Gordon ReichalThe D38 CIC proudly hosted our community members through the mechanical engineering welding workshop. The tour groups were visibly impressed by the students’ projects and their hands on industrial skills application. The area safety systems and personal protection techniques were an essential part of all classroom training in the lab. The large sculptures in-work are part of student final projects showing the applied skill and artistic aspect of their training. Photo courtesy D38. Caption by Gordon ReichalAt the D38 CIC Open house, D38 teachers and students demonstrated the functionality of their robotics. The students designed and build the hardware and manually navigated their device through a maze and obstruction littered floor plan. The path was recorded by the robot and it has the capability to repeat the journey later without direct human guidance. Photo courtesy D38. Caption by Gordon Reichal
On May 4th, Monument Fire District received delivery of a new ambulance for our community. MFD EMS Coordinator Rachael Peters shared her excitement for this new emergency vehicle contributing to the MFD Mission of “Proudly Serving the Tri-Lakes Region.” Photo by Gordon Reichal.
Over 21,000 copies of our May 2nd issue will be mailed this Thursday. They should be in most mailboxes by Saturday. All the articles, letters, columns, snapshots, notices, and community calendar events are being posted at www.ocn.me. On Friday, the audio files will posted for all the articles and the audio highlights and audio articles podcasts will be broadcast to Spotify, Apple Podcasts, and Pandora and posted on our YouTube channel.
D38 Career & Tech. Ed. Showcase and Monument Town Council Meeting on Mon.
Readers should assume that event information published in this newsletter is subject to change and information should be confirmed a day or two before the event by calling the information number or checking the organization’s website. See page < 22 > and page < 23 > or check wp.ocn.me/events for event locations and other details of these and many other local events.
OCN Mailing Days, Thu., June 4, approx. 7-8:30 am. If you can help, even for an hour or two, getting the papers ready to mail, contact AllenAlchian@ocn.me or (719) 488-3455.
With our new on-line calendar, you can easily search for your favorite events, view upcoming events in a variety of formats (daily, weekly, monthly, etc.) and add events of interest to the calendar on your mobile device or computer.
Want your event listed in our on-line and print calendar?
Our Community Calendar carries listings 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. Complimentary calendar listings are included, when requested, for events advertised in the current issue. Click the button below to request listing of your events.
Keep up with fast-moving developments in the Tri-Lakes area with the OCN app!
The OCN app alerts you to upcoming events you don’t want to miss, lists the latest articles, podcasts, photo collections, comments, etc. It updates automatically to keep you informed.
In the screenshot below, the app is reporting 10 new upcoming events including a car show, farmers’ market, D38 school board meeting, and Monument Town Council meeting.
Just click the button below for a description of the latest version of the OCN app and detailed instructions on installing it on your smartphone, tablet, laptop, Chromebook, or desktop computer.
This email is an edition of the Our Community Newsletter. We also offer separate monthly email messages for those interested in information about OCN advertising. If you wish to also receive those email messages, please let me know or click on “manage your subscription” at the bottom of every message I sent. That will take you to a web page where you can update your information and preferences.
If you do not wish to receive future email messages of this type, please let me know at johnheiser@ocn.me and I will take care of it immediately.
We inadvertently ran the wrong version of the Drip Coffee House ad. Below is the correct version. Note that the date is Saturday, May 9th and the offer differs from what ran in the paper. OCN regrets the error.
Over 21,000 copies of our May 2nd issue will be mailed this Thursday. They should be in most mailboxes by Saturday. All the articles, letters, columns, snapshots, notices, and community calendar events are being posted at www.ocn.me. On Friday, the audio files will posted for all the articles and the audio highlights and audio articles podcasts will be broadcast to Spotify, Apple Podcasts, and Pandora and posted on our YouTube channel.
Readers should assume that event information published in this newsletter is subject to change and information should be confirmed a day or two before the event by calling the information number or checking the organization’s website. See page < 22 > and page < 23 > or check wp.ocn.me/events for event locations and other details of these and many other local events.
OCN Mailing Days, Thu., Apr. 30, approx. 7-8:30 am. If you can help, even for an hour or two, getting the papers ready to mail, contact AllenAlchian@ocn.me or (719) 488-3455.
OCN Mailing Days, Thu., June 4, approx. 7-8:30 am. If you can help, even for an hour or two, getting the papers ready to mail, contact AllenAlchian@ocn.me or (719) 488-3455.
With our new on-line calendar, you can easily search for your favorite events, view upcoming events in a variety of formats (daily, weekly, monthly, etc.) and add events of interest to the calendar on your mobile device or computer.
Want your event listed in our on-line and print calendar?
Our Community Calendar carries listings 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. Complimentary calendar listings are included, when requested, for events advertised in the current issue. Click the button below to request listing of your events.
Keep up with fast-moving developments in the Tri-Lakes area with the OCN app!
The OCN app alerts you to upcoming events you don’t want to miss, lists the latest articles, podcasts, photo collections, comments, etc. It updates automatically to keep you informed.
In the screenshot below, the app is reporting 10 new upcoming events including a car show, farmers’ market, D38 school board meeting, and Monument Town Council meeting.
Just click the button below for a description of the latest version of the OCN app and detailed instructions on installing it on your smartphone, tablet, laptop, Chromebook, or desktop computer.
This email is an edition of the Our Community Newsletter. We also offer separate monthly email messages for those interested in information about OCN advertising. If you wish to also receive those email messages, please let me know or click on “manage your subscription” at the bottom of every message I sent. That will take you to a web page where you can update your information and preferences.
If you do not wish to receive future email messages of this type, please let me know at johnheiser@ocn.me and I will take care of it immediately.
Over 21,000 copies of our May 2nd issue will be mailed this Thursday. They should be in most mailboxes by Saturday. All the articles, letters, columns, snapshots, notices, and community calendar events are being posted at www.ocn.me. On Friday, the audio files will posted for all the articles and the audio highlights and audio articles podcasts will be broadcast to Spotify, Apple Podcasts, and Pandora and posted on our YouTube channel.
The Town of Monument celebrated its 32nd year of being designated “Tree City U.S.A.” by planting a tree on Arbor Day April 24. The Monument Parks Department planted a Vanderwolf Pine on the road leading to Monument Lake. This along with three other trees planted on the road earlier in the week are the town’s first Vanderwolf Pines. Parks Superintendant James Schubauer told the small crowd that these trees are supposed to be faster growing, fuller and softer compared to other pines. Schubauer gave tips on how to plant the tree as it was being placed in the ground. Pictured from left: Schubauer, Park Techs Trystan Pyle, and Michael Spencer start to remove the burlap surrounding the root ball. Photo by Michael Weinfeld.
On Apr. 11, Scout Master Larry Nikolaus (far left) and members of Boys and Girls Scout Troop 194 – Gleneagle pose with donations dropped off by Gleneagle community members and others for the troop’s Spring Food Drive. The troop has been collecting food donations in the Spring and Fall for over 20 years, typically collecting over 1,000lbs during each drive per Nikolaus. The donations collected during this drive are destined for Tri-Lakes Cares. Members of the troop also picked up trash along Gleneagle Drive, which they do quarterly. Nikolaus said the troop consists of boys and girls from Gleneagle and Monument. Photo by David Futey.
On Apr. 4, hundreds of children, aged pre-school through elementary school, participated in the 4th annual Gleneagle Easter Egg Hunt on the Antelope Trails Elementary School (ATES) field. Over 15,000 plastic Easter eggs filled with candies along with bubble wands, sticker sheets, coloring books and small cush balls were scattered on the field for the hunt. Blair Dinkins, with eXp Realty, LLC, coordinated the event. She said her family started filling the eggs in late Fall 2025 in preparation. She stated this “community event draws Gleneagle families together and engages the school for a great time.” Veterans United Home Loans sponsored bounce houses as part of the after-hunt activities. Dinkins said the Gleneagle community should be on the lookout for information regarding another fun event for all ages, the Gleneagle Spirit 5k Walk/Run presently scheduled for Sept. 12. Photo by David Futey
Lukas Gizelbach, a Monumental Impact intern (left), presented bookends he created to Brieana Weaver, Silver Key Thrift Store’s retail sales director (right) on April 15. Silver Key gave Lukas the opportunity last fall to share his prototype and gather customer feedback. He completed his internship by creating and packaging a set of his final bookends for donation to Silver Key’s new thrift store location next to The UPS Store in the Safeway shopping center on Route 105 in Monument. Photo by Jeanette Breton.
Area residents brought in their tree limbs and branches to be mulched in the second annual Mulch Madness event on April 11 in Monument. The event is sponsored by the Mountain View Electric Association (MVEA) in partnership with the Town of Monument Public Works Department and Monument Fire District. A total of 178 MVEA members protected their properties and the surrounding community by clearing excess brush and tree debris and having it mulched. Sara Muirheid, MVEA Communications Supervisor, says, “By working together with our local partners, we’re helping reduce fire risk while keeping our communities safe and resilient.” MVEA also offers free tree trimming near power lines. Photo provided by MVEA.
The Town of Monument Water Department has imposed water restrictions five weeks early because of the lack of precipitation and higher than usual temperatures we’ve had. The restrictions started on April 7 and will continue until Oct. 30. Odd-numbered addresses will be allowed to water on Mondays, Wednesdays, and Fridays. Even number addresses can water on Tuesdays, Thursdays, and Saturdays. No watering is allowed on Sundays. Photo by Michael Weinfeld.
The Monument Town Council has picked “Doc Close Road” as the winner of the contest to rename a new segment of roadway created by the realignment of Old Denver Road between Santa Fe Avenue and Wagon Gap Trail. Senior Planner Jenna Gorney (in photo) told the council at its April 21 meeting that the winning name submitted by Catherine McGuire was among 160 names suggested by 60 people in the contest. The road will be renamed in honor of McGuire’s grandfather Thomas Close, who was a medical doctor and pharmacist in Monument in the early 1900s. Close and his family used to live in the house that’s now Lolly’s. He bought 240 acres between Elephant Rock and Ben Lomand Mountain in 1922, and the family has made sure the land is preserved. Close was friends with Jim Higby and McGuire suggested in her application that her grandfather join his “childhood chum” with a road named in his honor. The renaming will be made official with a resolution probably at the next council meeting on May 4. The new sign will be unveiled at a ceremony on May 22. Photo by Michael Weinfeld.
A huge crowd packed the new location of the Silver Key Thrift Store in the Safeway shopping center on Route 105 in Monument for a grand opening celebration on April 17. The new location is much bigger than the old place on Route 105 in Palmer Lake where the shop was located the past two years. Retail sales director Brieana Weaver says they’ll get more walk-ins in this location since it’s in a busy shopping center. The sign for the liquor store that used to be at the new location was still on the storefront. Silver Key President and CEO Jason DeaBueno says a lighted Silver Key sign will be installed on both ends of the building once it gets approved by the Town of Monument. He ended his speech by urging the crowd to “Buy! Buy! Buy! Use it and then recycle it and we’ll sell it again!” Photo by Michael Weinfeld.
E-motorcycles September 7, 2025. Photo provided by the Gleneagle Civic Association.
As reported in the Apr. 4 issue of Our Community News (OCN), Gleneagle Civic Association (GCA) board members stated continuing concerns regarding E-motorcycles operating on and causing damage to the Ray Berg Open Space (RBOS). On Apr. 6, GCA President Mark Connell sent the following email to GCA members alerting them of a confrontation that occurred between a board member and juveniles operating E-motorcycles on the RBOS. He included information on how to proceed if E-motorcyclists are seen on the RBOS and provided information on where such off-highway vehicles are permitted. David Futey can be contacted at davefutey@ocn.me
———————–
The Gleneagle Civic Association Board wanted to bring to your attention an incident that recently occurred on the Ray Berg Green Space.
At about 4:00PM on Sunday, March 29th, one of our board members and his wife were assaulted by four juveniles on E-Motorcycles. The juveniles were told by our board member that E-Motorcycles were not allowed on the Green Space. The juveniles drove concentric circles around our board member and his wife. They also rode their E-Motorcycles directly at them, then breaking off the charge at the last moment before turning away.
Although our board member was knocked to the ground, neither he nor his wife suffered any significant injury. Our board member reported the assault to the El Paso County Sheriff’s Office. Another GCA member witnessed this incident and walked toward the four E-Motorcyclists at which point they fled the scene. A sheriff’s deputy came to Gleneagle, took a report of the incident and is following up with an investigation.
This incident comes after more than a year of trespassing and damage to the Green Space by E-Motorcyclists. We have photo documentation of trespassing in February, April, and August of 2025, as well as an incident as recent as March 8th, 2026. In 2025, trespassing E Motorcyclists damaged the Green Space by leaving multiple figure eight “burn-outs”. Damage was estimated at $1,000 to repair. The damage was reported to the El Paso County Sheriff’s Office.
The board would like to ask members for the following assistance in this on-going investigation:
If you witness E-Motorcyclists in the Green Space, please take photos or video if possible. Electric vehicles often look like e-bikes but if they exceed the 750-watt legal limit they are legally classified as motor vehicles. Motors ranging from 1,000 to 6,000+ watts can reach top speeds of 30–65+ mph. Consequently, the vehicle must be registered under Colorado law, the user must have a valid driver’s license, and the vehicle must be insured.
Please immediately report any sighting of E-Motorcycles in the Green Space to the El Paso County Sheriff’s Office non-emergency phone number: 719-390-5555.
If you know the identity of any E-Motorcyclists using the Green Space, please contact the Sheriff’s Office to assist with their investigation.
It is worth noting that KOAA Channel 5 ran a report on E-Motorcycles at 6pm on April 4, 2026, in response to a query from a Gleneagle North resident. The report noted that in the state of Colorado, E-Motorcycles are defined as OHV’s (Off-Highway Vehicle) which are permitted only on designated motorized trails. They are not permitted on roads, sidewalks, parks or areas that specifically prohibit motorized vehicles.
Thank you for your attention to this matter.
Best, Mark Connell President Gleneagle Civic Association Board of Directors
On April 11th, Lewis-Palmer School District 38 welcomed the general public to the district-wide art show at the school district administration building, Big Red, in Monument. Students from all grades were represented in their art efforts and families and the students enjoyed the event. Photo by Janet Sellers.
Readers should assume that event information published in this newsletter is subject to change and information should be confirmed a day or two before the event by calling the information number or checking the organization’s website. See page < 22 > and page < 23 > or check wp.ocn.me/events for event locations and other details of these and many other local events.
OCN Mailing Days, Thu., Apr. 30, approx. 7-8:30 am. If you can help, even for an hour or two, getting the papers ready to mail, contact AllenAlchian@ocn.me or (719) 488-3455.
OCN Mailing Days, Thu., June 4, approx. 7-8:30 am. If you can help, even for an hour or two, getting the papers ready to mail, contact AllenAlchian@ocn.me or (719) 488-3455.
With our new on-line calendar, you can easily search for your favorite events, view upcoming events in a variety of formats (daily, weekly, monthly, etc.) and add events of interest to the calendar on your mobile device or computer.
Want your event listed in our on-line and print calendar?
Our Community Calendar carries listings 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. Complimentary calendar listings are included, when requested, for events advertised in the current issue. Click the button below to request listing of your events.
Keep up with fast-moving developments in the Tri-Lakes area with the OCN app!
The OCN app alerts you to upcoming events you don’t want to miss, lists the latest articles, podcasts, photo collections, comments, etc. It updates automatically to keep you informed.
In the screenshot below, the app is reporting 10 new upcoming events including a car show, farmers’ market, D38 school board meeting, and Monument Town Council meeting.
Just click the button below for a description of the latest version of the OCN app and detailed instructions on installing it on your smartphone, tablet, laptop, Chromebook, or desktop computer.
This email is an edition of the Our Community Newsletter. We also offer separate monthly email messages for those interested in information about OCN advertising. If you wish to also receive those email messages, please let me know or click on “manage your subscription” at the bottom of every message I sent. That will take you to a web page where you can update your information and preferences.
If you do not wish to receive future email messages of this type, please let me know at johnheiser@ocn.me and I will take care of it immediately.
AI-Generated Highlights of the April 9 & April 23 meetings of the Palmer Lake Board of Trustees
Below are AI-generated highlights of the Palmer Lake Board of Trustees meetings April 9 & 23. Our May 2nd issue will have detailed coverage of this meeting.
Water Emergency Declared: The board unanimously declared a water emergency after a senior water right holder placed a “call” on Monument Creek, the town’s primary water source, forcing the town to rely solely on backup wells.
Board Votes for Disciplinary Hearing: The Board of Trustees voted to hold a formal hearing to determine whether to retain Trustee Roger Moseley following allegations of harassment and creating a hostile work environment based on gender.
Investigation Findings: An independent investigator and attorney confirmed that “likely illegal behavior” and a hostile work environment existed, primarily directed at women, and noted that Moseley had admitted involvement.
Lack of Legal Precedents for Removal: Town Attorney Kent Whitmer reported running into “multiple brick walls” regarding legal precedents for removing a trustee, noting that few towns have codified such procedures.
Requirement for New Disciplinary Ordinance: To proceed with the hearing, the board directed the attorney to draft a new ordinance codifying a judicial process for disciplinary hearings, as current state statutes offers only removal and no action.
Debate Over Statutory Authority: There was significant debate over the board’s power; some argued that state statute C.R.S. Section 31-4-307 allows the board to remove an officer, while others, including legal counsel for Integrity Matters, claim the board cannot modify these statutes or apply new laws retroactively.
Mayor Pro Tem Vacancy Addressed: After a vacancy lasting since October 2025, the board discussed the legal requirement to appoint a mayor pro tem within 30 days and plans to fill the position at the next meeting.
Elephant Rock Mobile Home Park Code Enforcement: Town Clerk Erica Romero updated the board on efforts to address long-standing code violations, including vehicle citations, utility issues, and drug use, while working with state health and local affairs departments.
Planning Commission Appointment: The board filled one of three vacancies on the Planning Commission by appointing Kent Hutson, though motions to appoint two other candidates failed.
New Police Officer Sworn In: The April 9 meeting included the swearing-in of the town’s newest police officer, Dena Currin.
Town Administrator Recruitment: During an executive session, the board met with a recruitment firm to discuss the ongoing process of finding a permanent Town Administrator.
Buc-ee’s buys parcel for over $10 million
In early April, for more than $10 million, Buc-ee’s EPCO, LLC purchased from Monument Ridge West, LLC the combined parcel west of I-25 and south of County Line Road totaling about 53.4 acres.
On March 19, the Colorado Division of Water Resources issued permits for two wells on the parcel. One permit is for the Denver Aquifer with a depth of 1,230 and 1,795 feet pumping up to 3.5 million gallons per year. The second permit is for the Arapahoe Aquifer with a depth of 1,825 to 2,250 feet pumping up to 7.1 million gallons per year. Each well would be limited to pumping 150 gallons per minute and must be more than 600 feet from any existing wells. The two wells could supply up to 880,000 gallons per month or 28,000 gallons per day.
The Monument Sanitation District has committed to providing sewer service to the parcel.
The Town of Monument celebrated its 32nd year of being designated “Tree City U.S.A.” by planting a tree on Arbor Day April 24. The Monument Parks Department planted a Vanderwolf Pine on the road leading to Monument Lake. This along with three other trees planted on the road earlier in the week are the town’s first Vanderwolf Pines. Parks Superintendant James Schubauer told the small crowd that these trees are supposed to be faster growing, fuller and softer compared to other pines. Schubauer gave tips on how to plant the tree as it was being placed in the ground. Pictured from left: Schubauer, Park Techs Trystan Pyle, and Michael Spencer start to remove the burlap surrounding the root ball. Photo by Michael Weinfeld.
On Apr. 11, Scout Master Larry Nikolaus (far left) and members of Boys and Girls Scout Troop 194 – Gleneagle pose with donations dropped off by Gleneagle community members and others for the troop’s Spring Food Drive. The troop has been collecting food donations in the Spring and Fall for over 20 years, typically collecting over 1,000lbs during each drive per Nikolaus. The donations collected during this drive are destined for Tri-Lakes Cares. Members of the troop also picked up trash along Gleneagle Drive, which they do quarterly. Nikolaus said the troop consists of boys and girls from Gleneagle and Monument. Photo by David Futey.
On Apr. 4, hundreds of children, aged pre-school through elementary school, participated in the 4th annual Gleneagle Easter Egg Hunt on the Antelope Trails Elementary School (ATES) field. Over 15,000 plastic Easter eggs filled with candies along with bubble wands, sticker sheets, coloring books and small cush balls were scattered on the field for the hunt. Blair Dinkins, with eXp Realty, LLC, coordinated the event. She said her family started filling the eggs in late Fall 2025 in preparation. She stated this “community event draws Gleneagle families together and engages the school for a great time.” Veterans United Home Loans sponsored bounce houses as part of the after-hunt activities. Dinkins said the Gleneagle community should be on the lookout for information regarding another fun event for all ages, the Gleneagle Spirit 5k Walk/Run presently scheduled for Sept. 12. Photo by David Futey
Lukas Gizelbach, a Monumental Impact intern (left), presented bookends he created to Brieana Weaver, Silver Key Thrift Store’s retail sales director (right) on April 15. Silver Key gave Lukas the opportunity last fall to share his prototype and gather customer feedback. He completed his internship by creating and packaging a set of his final bookends for donation to Silver Key’s new thrift store location next to The UPS Store in the Safeway shopping center on Route 105 in Monument. Photo by Jeanette Breton.
Area residents brought in their tree limbs and branches to be mulched in the second annual Mulch Madness event on April 11 in Monument. The event is sponsored by the Mountain View Electric Association (MVEA) in partnership with the Town of Monument Public Works Department and Monument Fire District. A total of 178 MVEA members protected their properties and the surrounding community by clearing excess brush and tree debris and having it mulched. Sara Muirheid, MVEA Communications Supervisor, says, “By working together with our local partners, we’re helping reduce fire risk while keeping our communities safe and resilient.” MVEA also offers free tree trimming near power lines. Photo provided by MVEA.
The Town of Monument Water Department has imposed water restrictions five weeks early because of the lack of precipitation and higher than usual temperatures we’ve had. The restrictions started on April 7 and will continue until Oct. 30. Odd-numbered addresses will be allowed to water on Mondays, Wednesdays, and Fridays. Even number addresses can water on Tuesdays, Thursdays, and Saturdays. No watering is allowed on Sundays. Photo by Michael Weinfeld.
The Monument Town Council has picked “Doc Close Road” as the winner of the contest to rename a new segment of roadway created by the realignment of Old Denver Road between Santa Fe Avenue and Wagon Gap Trail. Senior Planner Jenna Gorney (in photo) told the council at its April 21 meeting that the winning name submitted by Catherine McGuire was among 160 names suggested by 60 people in the contest. The road will be renamed in honor of McGuire’s grandfather Thomas Close, who was a medical doctor and pharmacist in Monument in the early 1900s. Close and his family used to live in the house that’s now Lolly’s. He bought 240 acres between Elephant Rock and Ben Lomand Mountain in 1922, and the family has made sure the land is preserved. Close was friends with Jim Higby and McGuire suggested in her application that her grandfather join his “childhood chum” with a road named in his honor. The renaming will be made official with a resolution probably at the next council meeting on May 4. The new sign will be unveiled at a ceremony on May 22. Photo by Michael Weinfeld.
A huge crowd packed the new location of the Silver Key Thrift Store in the Safeway shopping center on Route 105 in Monument for a grand opening celebration on April 17. The new location is much bigger than the old place on Route 105 in Palmer Lake where the shop was located the past two years. Retail sales director Brieana Weaver says they’ll get more walk-ins in this location since it’s in a busy shopping center. The sign for the liquor store that used to be at the new location was still on the storefront. Silver Key President and CEO Jason DeaBueno says a lighted Silver Key sign will be installed on both ends of the building once it gets approved by the Town of Monument. He ended his speech by urging the crowd to “Buy! Buy! Buy! Use it and then recycle it and we’ll sell it again!” Photo by Michael Weinfeld.
AI-Generated Video Overview and Highlights of the April 20 meeting of the Monument Town Council
Below are AI-generated highlights of the Monument Town Council meeting April 20. The timestamps in parentheses indicate the approximate points in the video of the meeting where the topics were discussed. Our May 2nd issue will have detailed coverage of this meeting.
Public Comment on Free Speech: Heather Jacobson, representing Tri-Lakes for Democracy, thanked the Council for supporting free speech following local social media controversy over a non-violent event, emphasizing that constitutional protections apply to all citizens. (00:02:45)
Small Business Week Proclamation: Brandon Eldridge, Executive Director of the Pikes Peak Small Business Development Center, announced the region’s Small Business Week (May 3–9), including a business awards celebration at the Cheyenne Mountain Zoo on May 4. (00:04:59)
Arbor Day Celebration: Assistant Director of Public Works Andrew Archuleta announced an Arbor Day event on April 24 involving the planting of Vanderwolf pine trees west of Mitchell Avenue to mark the town’s 32nd year as a “Tree City USA”. (00:11:55)
Proposed 10% Water Rate Increase: Kevin Burnham of Willdan Financial Services recommended a 10% annual revenue increase for the water utility through 2030 to address rising capital and operating costs and avoid a projected fund deficit. (00:20:19)
Council Interest in Tiered Water Rates: During the rate study presentation, Council members expressed a preference for an “inclining block” or tiered structure that would encourage conservation by charging higher-volume users a larger percentage. (00:26:40)
Stormwater Modeling Discoveries: The draft 2026 Stormwater Master Plan revealed that the “100-year storm” now drops at least 20% more rain than the 2006 plan was built to handle, necessitating significant infrastructure updates. (01:11:51)
Old Denver Road Culvert Deficiencies: Consultants from V3 Companies identified Old Denver Road as the most significant corridor of structural deficiency, noting that every modeled culvert on the road is undersized and failing to provide adequate flood protection. (01:20:06)
“Doc Close Road” Renaming Vote: After a community contest that generated 164 suggestions, the Council voted to rename a segment of Crossfield Road “Doc Close Road” in honor of Dr. Thomas Close, a historic local physician and pharmacist. (02:10:14)
Town Hall Roof Repair Contract: Council approved Resolution No. 28-2026, authorizing a $55,797 contract with Garland/DBS Inc. to restore the Town Hall roof using a liquid-applied polyurea membrane to stop existing leaks. (02:16:42)
Adoption of Comprehensive ADA Policies: Council passed Resolution No. 29-2026, adopting 12 formal policies to ensure the town’s consistent compliance with the Americans with Disabilities Act regarding employment, communication, and facility access. (02:20:53)
Shopping Center Pothole Complaints: Councilmember Kimple raised urgent concerns about severe potholes in private parking lots (Safeway, Monument Ridge, and Home Depot), leading to a discussion on the town’s limited enforcement powers for private property maintenance. (02:26:40)
Success of Silver Key Thrift Store: Mayor LaKind and Councilmember Kimple highlighted the successful opening of the Silver Key Thrift Store, noting its high sales volume and its impact as a new source of local sales tax revenue. (02:38:36)
E-motorcycles September 7, 2025. Photo provided by the Gleneagle Civic Association.
As reported in the Apr. 4 issue of Our Community News (OCN), Gleneagle Civic Association (GCA) board members stated continuing concerns regarding E-motorcycles operating on and causing damage to the Ray Berg Open Space (RBOS). On Apr. 6, GCA President Mark Connell sent the following email to GCA members alerting them of a confrontation that occurred between a board member and juveniles operating E-motorcycles on the RBOS. He included information on how to proceed if E-motorcyclists are seen on the RBOS and provided information on where such off-highway vehicles are permitted. David Futey can be contacted at davefutey@ocn.me
———————–
The Gleneagle Civic Association Board wanted to bring to your attention an incident that recently occurred on the Ray Berg Green Space.
At about 4:00PM on Sunday, March 29th, one of our board members and his wife were assaulted by four juveniles on E-Motorcycles. The juveniles were told by our board member that E-Motorcycles were not allowed on the Green Space. The juveniles drove concentric circles around our board member and his wife. They also rode their E-Motorcycles directly at them, then breaking off the charge at the last moment before turning away.
Although our board member was knocked to the ground, neither he nor his wife suffered any significant injury. Our board member reported the assault to the El Paso County Sheriff’s Office. Another GCA member witnessed this incident and walked toward the four E-Motorcyclists at which point they fled the scene. A sheriff’s deputy came to Gleneagle, took a report of the incident and is following up with an investigation.
This incident comes after more than a year of trespassing and damage to the Green Space by E-Motorcyclists. We have photo documentation of trespassing in February, April, and August of 2025, as well as an incident as recent as March 8th, 2026. In 2025, trespassing E Motorcyclists damaged the Green Space by leaving multiple figure eight “burn-outs”. Damage was estimated at $1,000 to repair. The damage was reported to the El Paso County Sheriff’s Office.
The board would like to ask members for the following assistance in this on-going investigation:
If you witness E-Motorcyclists in the Green Space, please take photos or video if possible. Electric vehicles often look like e-bikes but if they exceed the 750-watt legal limit they are legally classified as motor vehicles. Motors ranging from 1,000 to 6,000+ watts can reach top speeds of 30–65+ mph. Consequently, the vehicle must be registered under Colorado law, the user must have a valid driver’s license, and the vehicle must be insured.
Please immediately report any sighting of E-Motorcycles in the Green Space to the El Paso County Sheriff’s Office non-emergency phone number: 719-390-5555.
If you know the identity of any E-Motorcyclists using the Green Space, please contact the Sheriff’s Office to assist with their investigation.
It is worth noting that KOAA Channel 5 ran a report on E-Motorcycles at 6pm on April 4, 2026, in response to a query from a Gleneagle North resident. The report noted that in the state of Colorado, E-Motorcycles are defined as OHV’s (Off-Highway Vehicle) which are permitted only on designated motorized trails. They are not permitted on roads, sidewalks, parks or areas that specifically prohibit motorized vehicles.
Thank you for your attention to this matter.
Best, Mark Connell President Gleneagle Civic Association Board of Directors
On April 11th, Lewis-Palmer School District 38 welcomed the general public to the district-wide art show at the school district administration building, Big Red, in Monument. Students from all grades were represented in their art efforts and families and the students enjoyed the event. Photo by Janet Sellers.
Below are AI-generated highlights of the Monument Town Council meeting April 6. The timestamps in parentheses indicate the approximate points in the video of the meeting where the topics were discussed. Our May 2nd issue will have detailed coverage of this meeting.
Relocation of Public Comments: Mayor Mitch LaKind announced that, for the first time, public comments for items not on the agenda were moved to the beginning of the meeting to allow citizens to speak sooner. (00:02:14)
Police Oaths of Office: Chief Regan administered the oaths of office to Lieutenant Mitch Mihalko and Officer Ethan Elmshaeuser, formally welcoming them to their new roles within the Monument Police Department. (00:05:48)
Child Abuse Prevention Month: The Council issued a proclamation designating April as Child Abuse Prevention Month, highlighting the importance of community partnerships in protecting children and supporting families. (00:12:18)
Monument Fire District Training Center Approval: The Council approved the rezoning and final plat for a new fire training facility at 18650 West Highway 105, which will feature an 11,040-square-foot classroom building and a training tower. (00:13:38)
Alpine Dealership Material and Signage Debate: A significant portion of the meeting was dedicated to the Alpine Dealership application, with Council members raising concerns regarding the use of metal building panels and the request for a 35-foot pylon sign, which some felt violated existing codes. (00:30:51)
Continuation of Alpine Dealership Ordinance: Due to the unresolved issues regarding signage and architectural materials, the Council voted to continue the dealership ordinance to the May 4th meeting to allow the applicant and staff to refine the proposal. (02:35:12)
Update to Campaign Finance Procedures: The Council passed Ordinance 10-2026, which allows the Town Clerk to refer campaign finance complaints to the Colorado Secretary of State in cases where an actual or perceived conflict of interest exists. (02:53:32)
Police Department Fence and Purchasing Policy: While the Council approved a new security fence for the Police Department, the item prompted a debate over the town’s purchasing policy, specifically regarding when competitive bidding is required for projects exceeding $25,000. (03:01:17)
Implementation of Police Impact Fees: The Council adopted a new fee schedule that includes Police Impact Fees for new development, intended to ensure that growth contributes to the capital equipment needs of the police department. (03:13:39)
Grant Application for Permitting Software: Resolution 24-2026 was approved, authorizing staff to apply for a $250,000 grant from the Statewide Internet Portal Authority (SIPA) to replace the town’s antiquated land development and permitting software. (03:25:01)
Temporary Modification of Watering Procedures: In response to regional drought conditions, the Council approved moving the start of the restricted watering season up to April 7th, aiming to reduce early strain on the town’s water system. (03:36:07)
Project Cobalt Economic Development Agreement: Following an executive session, the Council approved Resolution 27-2026, entering into an economic development agreement with Project Cobalt to secure the location of the project within the town. (03:45:13)
Over 21,000 copies of our April 4th issue were mailed Thu., April 2nd.
All the articles, letters, columns, snapshots, notices, and community calendar events have been posted at www.ocn.me. Audio files have been posted for all the articles and the audio highlights and audio articles podcasts have been broadcast to Spotify, Apple Podcasts, and Pandora and posted on our YouTube channel.
Readers should assume that event information published in this newsletter is subject to change and information should be confirmed a day or two before the event by calling the information number or checking the organization’s website. See page < 22 > and page < 23 > or check wp.ocn.me/events for event locations and other details of these and many other local events.
OCN Mailing Days, Thu., Apr. 30, approx. 7-8:30 am. If you can help, even for an hour or two, getting the papers ready to mail, contact AllenAlchian@ocn.me or (719) 488-3455.
With our new on-line calendar, you can easily search for your favorite events, view upcoming events in a variety of formats (daily, weekly, monthly, etc.) and add events of interest to the calendar on your mobile device or computer.
Want your event listed in our on-line and print calendar?
Our Community Calendar carries listings 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. Complimentary calendar listings are included, when requested, for events advertised in the current issue. Click the button below to request listing of your events.
Keep up with fast-moving developments in the Tri-Lakes area with the OCN app!
The OCN app alerts you to upcoming events you don’t want to miss, lists the latest articles, podcasts, photo collections, comments, etc. It updates automatically to keep you informed.
In the screenshot below, the app is reporting 10 new upcoming events including a car show, farmers’ market, D38 school board meeting, and Monument Town Council meeting.
Just click the button below for a description of the latest version of the OCN app and detailed instructions on installing it on your smartphone, tablet, laptop, Chromebook, or desktop computer.
This email is an edition of the Our Community Newsletter. We also offer separate monthly email messages for those interested in information about OCN advertising. If you wish to also receive those email messages, please let me know or click on “manage your subscription” at the bottom of every message I sent. That will take you to a web page where you can update your information and preferences.
If you do not wish to receive future email messages of this type, please let me know at johnheiser@ocn.me and I will take care of it immediately.
The Town of Monument celebrated its 32nd year of being designated “Tree City U.S.A.” by planting a tree on Arbor Day April 24. The Monument Parks Department planted a Vanderwolf Pine on the road leading to Monument Lake. This along with three other trees planted on the road earlier in the week are the town’s first Vanderwolf Pines. Parks Superintendant James Schubauer told the small crowd that these trees are supposed to be faster growing, fuller and softer compared to other pines. Schubauer gave tips on how to plant the tree as it was being placed in the ground. Pictured from left: Schubauer, Park Techs Trystan Pyle, and Michael Spencer start to remove the burlap surrounding the root ball. Photo by Michael Weinfeld.The Town of Monument celebrated its 32nd year of being designated “Tree City U.S.A.” by planting a tree on Arbor Day April 24. The Monument Parks Department planted a Vanderwolf Pine on the road leading to Monument Lake. This along with three other trees planted on the road earlier in the week are the town’s first Vanderwolf Pines. Parks Superintendant James Schubauer told the small crowd that these trees are supposed to be faster growing, fuller and softer compared to other pines. Schubauer gave tips on how to plant the tree as it was being placed in the ground. Pictured from left, Schubauer, Park Techs Trystan Pyle and Michael Spencer carefully place the tree in the hole. Photo by Michael Weinfeld.The Town of Monument celebrated its 32nd year of being designated “Tree City U.S.A.” by planting a tree on Arbor Day April 24. The Monument Parks Department planted a Vanderwolf Pine on the road leading to Monument Lake. This along with three other trees planted on the road earlier in the week are the town’s first Vanderwolf Pines. Parks Superintendant James Schubauer told the small crowd that these trees are supposed to be faster growing, fuller and softer compared to other pines. Schubauer gave tips on how to plant the tree as it was being placed in the ground. Pictured from left, Monument Mayor Mitch LaKind and Council member Steve King greet the Arbor Bear.Photo by Michael Weinfeld.
On Apr. 11, Scout Master Larry Nikolaus (far left) and members of Boys and Girls Scout Troop 194 – Gleneagle pose with donations dropped off by Gleneagle community members and others for the troop’s Spring Food Drive. The troop has been collecting food donations in the Spring and Fall for over 20 years, typically collecting over 1,000lbs during each drive per Nikolaus. The donations collected during this drive are destined for Tri-Lakes Cares. Members of the troop also picked up trash along Gleneagle Drive, which they do quarterly. Nikolaus said the troop consists of boys and girls from Gleneagle and Monument. Photo by David Futey.
On Apr. 4, hundreds of children, aged pre-school through elementary school, participated in the 4th annual Gleneagle Easter Egg Hunt on the Antelope Trails Elementary School (ATES) field. Over 15,000 plastic Easter eggs filled with candies along with bubble wands, sticker sheets, coloring books and small cush balls were scattered on the field for the hunt. Blair Dinkins, with eXp Realty, LLC, coordinated the event. She said her family started filling the eggs in late Fall 2025 in preparation. She stated this “community event draws Gleneagle families together and engages the school for a great time.” Veterans United Home Loans sponsored bounce houses as part of the after-hunt activities. Dinkins said the Gleneagle community should be on the lookout for information regarding another fun event for all ages, the Gleneagle Spirit 5k Walk/Run presently scheduled for Sept. 12. Photo by David FuteyOn Apr. 4, hundreds of children, aged pre-school through elementary school, participated in the 4th annual Gleneagle Easter Egg Hunt on the Antelope Trails Elementary School (ATES) field. Over 15,000 plastic Easter eggs filled with candies along with bubble wands, sticker sheets, coloring books and small cush balls were scattered on the field for the hunt. Blair Dinkins, with eXp Realty, LLC, coordinated the event. She said her family started filling the eggs in late Fall 2025 in preparation. She stated this “community event draws Gleneagle families together and engages the school for a great time.” Veterans United Home Loans sponsored bounce houses as part of the after-hunt activities. Dinkins said the Gleneagle community should be on the lookout for information regarding another fun event for all ages, the Gleneagle Spirit 5k Walk/Run presently scheduled for Sept. 12. Photo by David Futey
Lukas Gizelbach, a Monumental Impact intern (left), presented bookends he created to Brieana Weaver, Silver Key Thrift Store’s retail sales director (right) on April 15. Silver Key gave Lukas the opportunity last fall to share his prototype and gather customer feedback. He completed his internship by creating and packaging a set of his final bookends for donation to Silver Key’s new thrift store location next to The UPS Store in the Safeway shopping center on Route 105 in Monument. Photo by Jeanette Breton.
Area residents brought in their tree limbs and branches to be mulched in the second annual Mulch Madness event on April 11 in Monument. The event is sponsored by the Mountain View Electric Association (MVEA) in partnership with the Town of Monument Public Works Department and Monument Fire District. A total of 178 MVEA members protected their properties and the surrounding community by clearing excess brush and tree debris and having it mulched. Sara Muirheid, MVEA Communications Supervisor, says, “By working together with our local partners, we’re helping reduce fire risk while keeping our communities safe and resilient.” MVEA also offers free tree trimming near power lines. Photo provided by MVEA.Area residents brought in their tree limbs and branches to be mulched in the second annual Mulch Madness event on April 11 in Monument. The event is sponsored by the Mountain View Electric Association (MVEA) in partnership with the Town of Monument Public Works Department and Monument Fire District. A total of 178 MVEA members protected their properties and the surrounding community by clearing excess brush and tree debris and having it mulched. Sara Muirheid, MVEA Communications Supervisor, says, “By working together with our local partners, we’re helping reduce fire risk while keeping our communities safe and resilient.” MVEA also offers free tree trimming near power lines. Photo provided by MVEA.
Buc-ee’s reportedly buys parcel for over $10 million
It was reported in the Denver Post that in early April, Buc-ee’s EPCO, LLC purchased the combined parcel totaling about 53.4 acres from Monument Ridge West LLC for over $10 million. So far, El Paso County reports that development plans have not been submitted. From this action, it appears Buc-ee’s is determined to build the travel center on that parcel and is fairly confident that it will be approved.
AI-Generated Video Overview and Highlights of the April 20 meeting of the Monument Town Council
Below are AI-generated highlights of the Monument Town Council meeting April 20. The timestamps in parentheses indicate the approximate points in the video of the meeting where the topics were discussed. Our May 2nd issue will have detailed coverage of this meeting.
Public Comment on Free Speech: Heather Jacobson, representing Tri-Lakes for Democracy, thanked the Council for supporting free speech following local social media controversy over a non-violent event, emphasizing that constitutional protections apply to all citizens. (00:02:45)
Small Business Week Proclamation: Brandon Eldridge, Executive Director of the Pikes Peak Small Business Development Center, announced the region’s Small Business Week (May 3–9), including a business awards celebration at the Cheyenne Mountain Zoo on May 4. (00:04:59)
Arbor Day Celebration: Assistant Director of Public Works Andrew Archuleta announced an Arbor Day event on April 24 involving the planting of Vanderwolf pine trees west of Mitchell Avenue to mark the town’s 32nd year as a “Tree City USA”. (00:11:55)
Proposed 10% Water Rate Increase: Kevin Burnham of Willdan Financial Services recommended a 10% annual revenue increase for the water utility through 2030 to address rising capital and operating costs and avoid a projected fund deficit. (00:20:19)
Council Interest in Tiered Water Rates: During the rate study presentation, Council members expressed a preference for an “inclining block” or tiered structure that would encourage conservation by charging higher-volume users a larger percentage. (00:26:40)
Stormwater Modeling Discoveries: The draft 2026 Stormwater Master Plan revealed that the “100-year storm” now drops at least 20% more rain than the 2006 plan was built to handle, necessitating significant infrastructure updates. (01:11:51)
Old Denver Road Culvert Deficiencies: Consultants from V3 Companies identified Old Denver Road as the most significant corridor of structural deficiency, noting that every modeled culvert on the road is undersized and failing to provide adequate flood protection. (01:20:06)
“Doc Close Road” Renaming Vote: After a community contest that generated 164 suggestions, the Council voted to rename a segment of Crossfield Road “Doc Close Road” in honor of Dr. Thomas Close, a historic local physician and pharmacist. (02:10:14)
Town Hall Roof Repair Contract: Council approved Resolution No. 28-2026, authorizing a $55,797 contract with Garland/DBS Inc. to restore the Town Hall roof using a liquid-applied polyurea membrane to stop existing leaks. (02:16:42)
Adoption of Comprehensive ADA Policies: Council passed Resolution No. 29-2026, adopting 12 formal policies to ensure the town’s consistent compliance with the Americans with Disabilities Act regarding employment, communication, and facility access. (02:20:53)
Shopping Center Pothole Complaints: Councilmember Kimple raised urgent concerns about severe potholes in private parking lots (Safeway, Monument Ridge, and Home Depot), leading to a discussion on the town’s limited enforcement powers for private property maintenance. (02:26:40)
Success of Silver Key Thrift Store: Mayor LaKind and Councilmember Kimple highlighted the successful opening of the Silver Key Thrift Store, noting its high sales volume and its impact as a new source of local sales tax revenue. (02:38:36)
E-motorcycles September 7, 2025. Photo provided by the Gleneagle Civic Association.
As reported in the Apr. 4 issue of Our Community News (OCN), Gleneagle Civic Association (GCA) board members stated continuing concerns regarding E-motorcycles operating on and causing damage to the Ray Berg Open Space (RBOS). On Apr. 6, GCA President Mark Connell sent the following email to GCA members alerting them of a confrontation that occurred between a board member and juveniles operating E-motorcycles on the RBOS. He included information on how to proceed if E-motorcyclists are seen on the RBOS and provided information on where such off-highway vehicles are permitted. David Futey can be contacted at davefutey@ocn.me
———————–
The Gleneagle Civic Association Board wanted to bring to your attention an incident that recently occurred on the Ray Berg Green Space.
At about 4:00PM on Sunday, March 29th, one of our board members and his wife were assaulted by four juveniles on E-Motorcycles. The juveniles were told by our board member that E-Motorcycles were not allowed on the Green Space. The juveniles drove concentric circles around our board member and his wife. They also rode their E-Motorcycles directly at them, then breaking off the charge at the last moment before turning away.
Although our board member was knocked to the ground, neither he nor his wife suffered any significant injury. Our board member reported the assault to the El Paso County Sheriff’s Office. Another GCA member witnessed this incident and walked toward the four E-Motorcyclists at which point they fled the scene. A sheriff’s deputy came to Gleneagle, took a report of the incident and is following up with an investigation.
This incident comes after more than a year of trespassing and damage to the Green Space by E-Motorcyclists. We have photo documentation of trespassing in February, April, and August of 2025, as well as an incident as recent as March 8th, 2026. In 2025, trespassing E Motorcyclists damaged the Green Space by leaving multiple figure eight “burn-outs”. Damage was estimated at $1,000 to repair. The damage was reported to the El Paso County Sheriff’s Office.
The board would like to ask members for the following assistance in this on-going investigation:
If you witness E-Motorcyclists in the Green Space, please take photos or video if possible. Electric vehicles often look like e-bikes but if they exceed the 750-watt legal limit they are legally classified as motor vehicles. Motors ranging from 1,000 to 6,000+ watts can reach top speeds of 30–65+ mph. Consequently, the vehicle must be registered under Colorado law, the user must have a valid driver’s license, and the vehicle must be insured.
Please immediately report any sighting of E-Motorcycles in the Green Space to the El Paso County Sheriff’s Office non-emergency phone number: 719-390-5555.
If you know the identity of any E-Motorcyclists using the Green Space, please contact the Sheriff’s Office to assist with their investigation.
It is worth noting that KOAA Channel 5 ran a report on E-Motorcycles at 6pm on April 4, 2026, in response to a query from a Gleneagle North resident. The report noted that in the state of Colorado, E-Motorcycles are defined as OHV’s (Off-Highway Vehicle) which are permitted only on designated motorized trails. They are not permitted on roads, sidewalks, parks or areas that specifically prohibit motorized vehicles.
Thank you for your attention to this matter.
Best, Mark Connell President Gleneagle Civic Association Board of Directors
On April 11th, Lewis-Palmer School District 38 welcomed the general public to the district-wide art show at the school district administration building, Big Red, in Monument. Students from all grades were represented in their art efforts and families and the students enjoyed the event. Photo by Janet Sellers.
Below are AI-generated highlights of the Monument Town Council meeting April 6. The timestamps in parentheses indicate the approximate points in the video of the meeting where the topics were discussed. Our May 2nd issue will have detailed coverage of this meeting.
Relocation of Public Comments: Mayor Mitch LaKind announced that, for the first time, public comments for items not on the agenda were moved to the beginning of the meeting to allow citizens to speak sooner. (00:02:14)
Police Oaths of Office: Chief Regan administered the oaths of office to Lieutenant Mitch Mihalko and Officer Ethan Elmshaeuser, formally welcoming them to their new roles within the Monument Police Department. (00:05:48)
Child Abuse Prevention Month: The Council issued a proclamation designating April as Child Abuse Prevention Month, highlighting the importance of community partnerships in protecting children and supporting families. (00:12:18)
Monument Fire District Training Center Approval: The Council approved the rezoning and final plat for a new fire training facility at 18650 West Highway 105, which will feature an 11,040-square-foot classroom building and a training tower. (00:13:38)
Alpine Dealership Material and Signage Debate: A significant portion of the meeting was dedicated to the Alpine Dealership application, with Council members raising concerns regarding the use of metal building panels and the request for a 35-foot pylon sign, which some felt violated existing codes. (00:30:51)
Continuation of Alpine Dealership Ordinance: Due to the unresolved issues regarding signage and architectural materials, the Council voted to continue the dealership ordinance to the May 4th meeting to allow the applicant and staff to refine the proposal. (02:35:12)
Update to Campaign Finance Procedures: The Council passed Ordinance 10-2026, which allows the Town Clerk to refer campaign finance complaints to the Colorado Secretary of State in cases where an actual or perceived conflict of interest exists. (02:53:32)
Police Department Fence and Purchasing Policy: While the Council approved a new security fence for the Police Department, the item prompted a debate over the town’s purchasing policy, specifically regarding when competitive bidding is required for projects exceeding $25,000. (03:01:17)
Implementation of Police Impact Fees: The Council adopted a new fee schedule that includes Police Impact Fees for new development, intended to ensure that growth contributes to the capital equipment needs of the police department. (03:13:39)
Grant Application for Permitting Software: Resolution 24-2026 was approved, authorizing staff to apply for a $250,000 grant from the Statewide Internet Portal Authority (SIPA) to replace the town’s antiquated land development and permitting software. (03:25:01)
Temporary Modification of Watering Procedures: In response to regional drought conditions, the Council approved moving the start of the restricted watering season up to April 7th, aiming to reduce early strain on the town’s water system. (03:36:07)
Project Cobalt Economic Development Agreement: Following an executive session, the Council approved Resolution 27-2026, entering into an economic development agreement with Project Cobalt to secure the location of the project within the town. (03:45:13)
Over 21,000 copies of our April 4th issue were mailed Thu., April 2nd.
All the articles, letters, columns, snapshots, notices, and community calendar events have been posted at www.ocn.me. Audio files have been posted for all the articles and the audio highlights and audio articles podcasts have been broadcast to Spotify, Apple Podcasts, and Pandora and posted on our YouTube channel.
Readers should assume that event information published in this newsletter is subject to change and information should be confirmed a day or two before the event by calling the information number or checking the organization’s website. See page < 22 > and page < 23 > or check wp.ocn.me/events for event locations and other details of these and many other local events.
OCN Mailing Days, Thu., Apr. 30, approx. 7-8:30 am. If you can help, even for an hour or two, getting the papers ready to mail, contact AllenAlchian@ocn.me or (719) 488-3455.
With our new on-line calendar, you can easily search for your favorite events, view upcoming events in a variety of formats (daily, weekly, monthly, etc.) and add events of interest to the calendar on your mobile device or computer.
Want your event listed in our on-line and print calendar?
Our Community Calendar carries listings 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. Complimentary calendar listings are included, when requested, for events advertised in the current issue. Click the button below to request listing of your events.
Keep up with fast-moving developments in the Tri-Lakes area with the OCN app!
The OCN app alerts you to upcoming events you don’t want to miss, lists the latest articles, podcasts, photo collections, comments, etc. It updates automatically to keep you informed.
In the screenshot below, the app is reporting 10 new upcoming events including a car show, farmers’ market, D38 school board meeting, and Monument Town Council meeting.
Just click the button below for a description of the latest version of the OCN app and detailed instructions on installing it on your smartphone, tablet, laptop, Chromebook, or desktop computer.
This email is an edition of the Our Community Newsletter. We also offer separate monthly email messages for those interested in information about OCN advertising. If you wish to also receive those email messages, please let me know or click on “manage your subscription” at the bottom of every message I sent. That will take you to a web page where you can update your information and preferences.
If you do not wish to receive future email messages of this type, please let me know at johnheiser@ocn.me and I will take care of it immediately.
The Town of Monument Water Department has imposed water restrictions five weeks early because of the lack of precipitation and higher than usual temperatures we’ve had. The restrictions started on April 7 and will continue until Oct. 30. Odd-numbered addresses will be allowed to water on Mondays, Wednesdays, and Fridays. Even number addresses can water on Tuesdays, Thursdays, and Saturdays. No watering is allowed on Sundays. Photo by Michael Weinfeld.
The Monument Town Council has picked “Doc Close Road” as the winner of the contest to rename a new segment of roadway created by the realignment of Old Denver Road between Santa Fe Avenue and Wagon Gap Trail. Senior Planner Jenna Gorney (in photo) told the council at its April 21 meeting that the winning name submitted by Catherine McGuire was among 160 names suggested by 60 people in the contest. The road will be renamed in honor of McGuire’s grandfather Thomas Close, who was a medical doctor and pharmacist in Monument in the early 1900s. Close and his family used to live in the house that’s now Lolly’s. He bought 240 acres between Elephant Rock and Ben Lomand Mountain in 1922, and the family has made sure the land is preserved. Close was friends with Jim Higby and McGuire suggested in her application that her grandfather join his “childhood chum” with a road named in his honor. The renaming will be made official with a resolution probably at the next council meeting on May 4. The new sign will be unveiled at a ceremony on May 22. Photo by Michael Weinfeld.
A huge crowd packed the new location of the Silver Key Thrift Store in the Safeway shopping center on Route 105 in Monument for a grand opening celebration on April 17. The new location is much bigger than the old place on Route 105 in Palmer Lake where the shop was located the past two years. Retail sales director Brieana Weaver says they’ll get more walk-ins in this location since it’s in a busy shopping center. The sign for the liquor store that used to be at the new location was still on the storefront. Silver Key President and CEO Jason DeaBueno says a lighted Silver Key sign will be installed on both ends of the building once it gets approved by the Town of Monument. He ended his speech by urging the crowd to “Buy! Buy! Buy! Use it and then recycle it and we’ll sell it again!” Photo by Michael Weinfeld.A huge crowd packed the new location of the Silver Key Thrift Store in the Safeway shopping center on Route 105 in Monument for a grand opening celebration on April 17. The new location is much bigger than the old place on Route 105 in Palmer Lake where the shop was located the past two years. Retail sales director Brieana Weaver says they’ll get more walk-ins in this location since it’s in a busy shopping center. The sign for the liquor store that used to be at the new location was still on the storefront. Silver Key President and CEO Jason DeaBueno says a lighted Silver Key sign will be installed on both ends of the building once it gets approved by the Town of Monument. He ended his speech by urging the crowd to “Buy! Buy! Buy! Use it and then recycle it and we’ll sell it again!” Photo by Michael Weinfeld.A huge crowd packed the new location of the Silver Key Thrift Store in the Safeway shopping center on Route 105 in Monument for a grand opening celebration on April 17. The new location is much bigger than the old place on Route 105 in Palmer Lake where the shop was located the past two years. Retail sales director Brieana Weaver says they’ll get more walk-ins in this location since it’s in a busy shopping center. The sign for the liquor store that used to be at the new location was still on the storefront. Silver Key President and CEO Jason DeaBueno says a lighted Silver Key sign will be installed on both ends of the building once it gets approved by the Town of Monument. He ended his speech by urging the crowd to “Buy! Buy! Buy! Use it and then recycle it and we’ll sell it again!” Photo by Michael Weinfeld.
E-motorcycles September 7, 2025. Photo provided by the Gleneagle Civic Association.
As reported in the Apr. 4 issue of Our Community News (OCN), Gleneagle Civic Association (GCA) board members stated continuing concerns regarding E-motorcycles operating on and causing damage to the Ray Berg Open Space (RBOS). On Apr. 6, GCA President Mark Connell sent the following email to GCA members alerting them of a confrontation that occurred between a board member and juveniles operating E-motorcycles on the RBOS. He included information on how to proceed if E-motorcyclists are seen on the RBOS and provided information on where such off-highway vehicles are permitted. David Futey can be contacted at davefutey@ocn.me
———————–
The Gleneagle Civic Association Board wanted to bring to your attention an incident that recently occurred on the Ray Berg Green Space.
At about 4:00PM on Sunday, March 29th, one of our board members and his wife were assaulted by four juveniles on E-Motorcycles. The juveniles were told by our board member that E-Motorcycles were not allowed on the Green Space. The juveniles drove concentric circles around our board member and his wife. They also rode their E-Motorcycles directly at them, then breaking off the charge at the last moment before turning away.
Although our board member was knocked to the ground, neither he nor his wife suffered any significant injury. Our board member reported the assault to the El Paso County Sheriff’s Office. Another GCA member witnessed this incident and walked toward the four E-Motorcyclists at which point they fled the scene. A sheriff’s deputy came to Gleneagle, took a report of the incident and is following up with an investigation.
This incident comes after more than a year of trespassing and damage to the Green Space by E-Motorcyclists. We have photo documentation of trespassing in February, April, and August of 2025, as well as an incident as recent as March 8th, 2026. In 2025, trespassing E Motorcyclists damaged the Green Space by leaving multiple figure eight “burn-outs”. Damage was estimated at $1,000 to repair. The damage was reported to the El Paso County Sheriff’s Office.
The board would like to ask members for the following assistance in this on-going investigation:
If you witness E-Motorcyclists in the Green Space, please take photos or video if possible. Electric vehicles often look like e-bikes but if they exceed the 750-watt legal limit they are legally classified as motor vehicles. Motors ranging from 1,000 to 6,000+ watts can reach top speeds of 30–65+ mph. Consequently, the vehicle must be registered under Colorado law, the user must have a valid driver’s license, and the vehicle must be insured.
Please immediately report any sighting of E-Motorcycles in the Green Space to the El Paso County Sheriff’s Office non-emergency phone number: 719-390-5555.
If you know the identity of any E-Motorcyclists using the Green Space, please contact the Sheriff’s Office to assist with their investigation.
It is worth noting that KOAA Channel 5 ran a report on E-Motorcycles at 6pm on April 4, 2026, in response to a query from a Gleneagle North resident. The report noted that in the state of Colorado, E-Motorcycles are defined as OHV’s (Off-Highway Vehicle) which are permitted only on designated motorized trails. They are not permitted on roads, sidewalks, parks or areas that specifically prohibit motorized vehicles.
Thank you for your attention to this matter.
Best, Mark Connell President Gleneagle Civic Association Board of Directors
On April 11th, Lewis-Palmer School District 38 welcomed the general public to the district-wide art show at the school district administration building, Big Red, in Monument. Students from all grades were represented in their art efforts and families and the students enjoyed the event. Photo by Janet Sellers.
Below are AI-generated highlights of the Monument Town Council meeting April 6. The timestamps in parentheses indicate the approximate points in the video of the meeting where the topics were discussed. Our May 2nd issue will have detailed coverage of this meeting.
Relocation of Public Comments: Mayor Mitch LaKind announced that, for the first time, public comments for items not on the agenda were moved to the beginning of the meeting to allow citizens to speak sooner. (00:02:14)
Police Oaths of Office: Chief Regan administered the oaths of office to Lieutenant Mitch Mihalko and Officer Ethan Elmshaeuser, formally welcoming them to their new roles within the Monument Police Department. (00:05:48)
Child Abuse Prevention Month: The Council issued a proclamation designating April as Child Abuse Prevention Month, highlighting the importance of community partnerships in protecting children and supporting families. (00:12:18)
Monument Fire District Training Center Approval: The Council approved the rezoning and final plat for a new fire training facility at 18650 West Highway 105, which will feature an 11,040-square-foot classroom building and a training tower. (00:13:38)
Alpine Dealership Material and Signage Debate: A significant portion of the meeting was dedicated to the Alpine Dealership application, with Council members raising concerns regarding the use of metal building panels and the request for a 35-foot pylon sign, which some felt violated existing codes. (00:30:51)
Continuation of Alpine Dealership Ordinance: Due to the unresolved issues regarding signage and architectural materials, the Council voted to continue the dealership ordinance to the May 4th meeting to allow the applicant and staff to refine the proposal. (02:35:12)
Update to Campaign Finance Procedures: The Council passed Ordinance 10-2026, which allows the Town Clerk to refer campaign finance complaints to the Colorado Secretary of State in cases where an actual or perceived conflict of interest exists. (02:53:32)
Police Department Fence and Purchasing Policy: While the Council approved a new security fence for the Police Department, the item prompted a debate over the town’s purchasing policy, specifically regarding when competitive bidding is required for projects exceeding $25,000. (03:01:17)
Implementation of Police Impact Fees: The Council adopted a new fee schedule that includes Police Impact Fees for new development, intended to ensure that growth contributes to the capital equipment needs of the police department. (03:13:39)
Grant Application for Permitting Software: Resolution 24-2026 was approved, authorizing staff to apply for a $250,000 grant from the Statewide Internet Portal Authority (SIPA) to replace the town’s antiquated land development and permitting software. (03:25:01)
Temporary Modification of Watering Procedures: In response to regional drought conditions, the Council approved moving the start of the restricted watering season up to April 7th, aiming to reduce early strain on the town’s water system. (03:36:07)
Project Cobalt Economic Development Agreement: Following an executive session, the Council approved Resolution 27-2026, entering into an economic development agreement with Project Cobalt to secure the location of the project within the town. (03:45:13)
Over 21,000 copies of our April 4th issue were mailed Thu., April 2nd.
All the articles, letters, columns, snapshots, notices, and community calendar events have been posted at www.ocn.me. Audio files have been posted for all the articles and the audio highlights and audio articles podcasts have been broadcast to Spotify, Apple Podcasts, and Pandora and posted on our YouTube channel.
Monument Town Council and D38 Board meeting Monday MFD Wednesday Palmer Lake BOT Thursday
Readers should assume that event information published in this newsletter is subject to change and information should be confirmed a day or two before the event by calling the information number or checking the organization’s website. See page < 22 > and page < 23 > or check wp.ocn.me/events for event locations and other details of these and many other local events.
OCN Mailing Days, Thu., Apr. 30, approx. 7-8:30 am. If you can help, even for an hour or two, getting the papers ready to mail, contact AllenAlchian@ocn.me or (719) 488-3455.
With our new on-line calendar, you can easily search for your favorite events, view upcoming events in a variety of formats (daily, weekly, monthly, etc.) and add events of interest to the calendar on your mobile device or computer.
Want your event listed in our on-line and print calendar?
Our Community Calendar carries listings 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. Complimentary calendar listings are included, when requested, for events advertised in the current issue. Click the button below to request listing of your events.
Keep up with fast-moving developments in the Tri-Lakes area with the OCN app!
The OCN app alerts you to upcoming events you don’t want to miss, lists the latest articles, podcasts, photo collections, comments, etc. It updates automatically to keep you informed.
In the screenshot below, the app is reporting 10 new upcoming events including a car show, farmers’ market, D38 school board meeting, and Monument Town Council meeting.
Just click the button below for a description of the latest version of the OCN app and detailed instructions on installing it on your smartphone, tablet, laptop, Chromebook, or desktop computer.
This email is an edition of the Our Community Newsletter. We also offer separate monthly email messages for those interested in information about OCN advertising. If you wish to also receive those email messages, please let me know or click on “manage your subscription” at the bottom of every message I sent. That will take you to a web page where you can update your information and preferences.
If you do not wish to receive future email messages of this type, please let me know at johnheiser@ocn.me and I will take care of it immediately.
On April 11th, Lewis-Palmer School District 38 welcomed the general public to the district-wide art show at the school district administration building, Big Red, in Monument. Students from all grades were represented in their art efforts and families and the students enjoyed the event. Photo by Janet Sellers.On April 11th, Lewis-Palmer School District 38 welcomed the general public to the district-wide art show at the school district administration building, Big Red, in Monument. Students from all grades were represented in their art efforts and families and the students enjoyed the event. Photo by Janet Sellers.On April 11th, Lewis-Palmer School District 38 welcomed the general public to the district-wide art show at the school district administration building, Big Red, in Monument. Students from all grades were represented in their art efforts and families and the students enjoyed the event. Photo by Janet Sellers.On April 11th, Lewis-Palmer School District 38 welcomed the general public to the district-wide art show at the school district administration building, Big Red, in Monument. Students from all grades were represented in their art efforts and families and the students enjoyed the event. Photo by Janet Sellers.
As reported in the Apr. 4 issue of Our Community News (OCN), Gleneagle Civic Association (GCA) board members stated continuing concerns regarding E-motorcycles operating on and causing damage to the Ray Berg Open Space (RBOS). On Apr. 6, GCA President Mark Connell sent the following email to GCA members alerting them of a confrontation that occurred between a board member and juveniles operating E-motorcycles on the RBOS. He included information on how to proceed if E-motorcyclists are seen on the RBOS and provided information on where such off-highway vehicles are permitted. David Futey can be contacted at davefutey@ocn.me
———————–
The Gleneagle Civic Association Board wanted to bring to your attention an incident that recently occurred on the Ray Berg Green Space.
At about 4:00PM on Sunday, March 29th, one of our board members and his wife were assaulted by four juveniles on E-Motorcycles. The juveniles were told by our board member that E-Motorcycles were not allowed on the Green Space. The juveniles drove concentric circles around our board member and his wife. They also rode their E-Motorcycles directly at them, then breaking off the charge at the last moment before turning away.
Although our board member was knocked to the ground, neither he nor his wife suffered any significant injury. Our board member reported the assault to the El Paso County Sheriff’s Office. Another GCA member witnessed this incident and walked toward the four E-Motorcyclists at which point they fled the scene. A sheriff’s deputy came to Gleneagle, took a report of the incident and is following up with an investigation.
This incident comes after more than a year of trespassing and damage to the Green Space by E-Motorcyclists. We have photo documentation of trespassing in February, April, and August of 2025, as well as an incident as recent as March 8th, 2026. In 2025, trespassing E Motorcyclists damaged the Green Space by leaving multiple figure eight “burn-outs”. Damage was estimated at $1,000 to repair. The damage was reported to the El Paso County Sheriff’s Office.
The board would like to ask members for the following assistance in this on-going investigation:
If you witness E-Motorcyclists in the Green Space, please take photos or video if possible. Electric vehicles often look like e-bikes but if they exceed the 750-watt legal limit they are legally classified as motor vehicles. Motors ranging from 1,000 to 6,000+ watts can reach top speeds of 30–65+ mph. Consequently, the vehicle must be registered under Colorado law, the user must have a valid driver’s license, and the vehicle must be insured.
Please immediately report any sighting of E-Motorcycles in the Green Space to the El Paso County Sheriff’s Office non-emergency phone number: 719-390-5555.
If you know the identity of any E-Motorcyclists using the Green Space, please contact the Sheriff’s Office to assist with their investigation.
It is worth noting that KOAA Channel 5 ran a report on E-Motorcycles at 6pm on April 4, 2026, in response to a query from a Gleneagle North resident. The report noted that in the state of Colorado, E-Motorcycles are defined as OHV’s (Off-Highway Vehicle) which are permitted only on designated motorized trails. They are not permitted on roads, sidewalks, parks or areas that specifically prohibit motorized vehicles.
Thank you for your attention to this matter.
Best,
Mark Connell President Gleneagle Civic Association Board of Directors
Aerial view of damage to the open space on Jan. 11, 2025. Photo provided by the Gleneagle Civic AssociationAerial view of e-motorcyclists on the open space on Jan. 11, 2025. Photo provided by the Gleneagle Civic AssociationE-motorcycle on the Open Space February 22, 2025. Photo provided by the Gleneagle Civic Association.E-motorcycle on the Open Space April 28, 2025. Photo provided by the Gleneagle Civic Association.E-motorcycles September 7, 2025. Photo provided by the Gleneagle Civic Association.E-motorcycles March 3, 2026. Photo provided by the Gleneagle Civic Association.E-motorcycles April 10, 2026. Photo provided by a reader.E-motorcycles April 10, 2026. Photo provided by a reader.E-motorcycles April 10, 2026. Photo provided by a reader.E-motorcycles April 10, 2026. Photo provided by a reader.E-motorcycles April 10, 2026. Photo provided by a reader.
Below are AI-generated highlights of the Monument Town Council meeting April 6. The timestamps in parentheses indicate the approximate points in the video of the meeting where the topics were discussed. Our May 2nd issue will have detailed coverage of this meeting.
Relocation of Public Comments: Mayor Mitch LaKind announced that, for the first time, public comments for items not on the agenda were moved to the beginning of the meeting to allow citizens to speak sooner. (00:02:14)
Police Oaths of Office: Chief Regan administered the oaths of office to Lieutenant Mitch Mihalko and Officer Ethan Elmshaeuser, formally welcoming them to their new roles within the Monument Police Department. (00:05:48)
Child Abuse Prevention Month: The Council issued a proclamation designating April as Child Abuse Prevention Month, highlighting the importance of community partnerships in protecting children and supporting families. (00:12:18)
Monument Fire District Training Center Approval: The Council approved the rezoning and final plat for a new fire training facility at 18650 West Highway 105, which will feature an 11,040-square-foot classroom building and a training tower. (00:13:38)
Alpine Dealership Material and Signage Debate: A significant portion of the meeting was dedicated to the Alpine Dealership application, with Council members raising concerns regarding the use of metal building panels and the request for a 35-foot pylon sign, which some felt violated existing codes. (00:30:51)
Continuation of Alpine Dealership Ordinance: Due to the unresolved issues regarding signage and architectural materials, the Council voted to continue the dealership ordinance to the May 4th meeting to allow the applicant and staff to refine the proposal. (02:35:12)
Update to Campaign Finance Procedures: The Council passed Ordinance 10-2026, which allows the Town Clerk to refer campaign finance complaints to the Colorado Secretary of State in cases where an actual or perceived conflict of interest exists. (02:53:32)
Police Department Fence and Purchasing Policy: While the Council approved a new security fence for the Police Department, the item prompted a debate over the town’s purchasing policy, specifically regarding when competitive bidding is required for projects exceeding $25,000. (03:01:17)
Implementation of Police Impact Fees: The Council adopted a new fee schedule that includes Police Impact Fees for new development, intended to ensure that growth contributes to the capital equipment needs of the police department. (03:13:39)
Grant Application for Permitting Software: Resolution 24-2026 was approved, authorizing staff to apply for a $250,000 grant from the Statewide Internet Portal Authority (SIPA) to replace the town’s antiquated land development and permitting software. (03:25:01)
Temporary Modification of Watering Procedures: In response to regional drought conditions, the Council approved moving the start of the restricted watering season up to April 7th, aiming to reduce early strain on the town’s water system. (03:36:07)
Project Cobalt Economic Development Agreement: Following an executive session, the Council approved Resolution 27-2026, entering into an economic development agreement with Project Cobalt to secure the location of the project within the town. (03:45:13)
Over 21,000 copies of our April 4th issue were mailed yesterday (Thu., April 2nd). They should be in almost all mailboxes by tomorrow.
All the articles, letters, columns, snapshots, notices, and community calendar events have been posted at www.ocn.me. Audio files have been posted for all the articles and the audio highlights and audio articles podcasts have been broadcast to Spotify, Apple Podcasts, and Pandora and posted on our YouTube channel.
Readers should assume that event information published in this newsletter is subject to change and information should be confirmed a day or two before the event by calling the information number or checking the organization’s website. See page < 22 > and page < 23 > or check wp.ocn.me/events for event locations and other details of these and many other local events.
With our new on-line calendar, you can easily search for your favorite events, view upcoming events in a variety of formats (daily, weekly, monthly, etc.) and add events of interest to the calendar on your mobile device or computer.
Want your event listed in our on-line and print calendar?
Our Community Calendar carries listings 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. Complimentary calendar listings are included, when requested, for events advertised in the current issue. Click the button below to request listing of your events.
Keep up with fast-moving developments in the Tri-Lakes area with the OCN app!
The OCN app alerts you to upcoming events you don’t want to miss, lists the latest articles, podcasts, photo collections, comments, etc. It updates automatically to keep you informed.
In the screenshot below, the app is reporting 10 new upcoming events including a car show, farmers’ market, D38 school board meeting, and Monument Town Council meeting.
Just click the button below for a description of the latest version of the OCN app and detailed instructions on installing it on your smartphone, tablet, laptop, Chromebook, or desktop computer.
This email is an edition of the Our Community Newsletter. We also offer separate monthly email messages for those interested in information about OCN advertising. If you wish to also receive those email messages, please let me know or click on “manage your subscription” at the bottom of every message I sent. That will take you to a web page where you can update your information and preferences.
If you do not wish to receive future email messages of this type, please let me know at johnheiser@ocn.me and I will take care of it immediately.
Over 21,000 copies of our April 4th issue were mailed yesterday (Thu., April 2nd). They should be in almost all mailboxes by tomorrow.
All the articles, letters, columns, snapshots, notices, and community calendar events have been posted at www.ocn.me. Audio files have been posted for all the articles and the audio highlights and audio articles podcasts have been broadcast to Spotify, Apple Podcasts, and Pandora and posted on our YouTube channel.
Readers should assume that event information published in this newsletter is subject to change and information should be confirmed a day or two before the event by calling the information number or checking the organization’s website. See page < 22 > and page < 23 > or check wp.ocn.me/events for event locations and other details of these and many other local events.
OCN Mailing Days, Thu., Apr. 2 & Apr. 30, approx. 7-8:30 am. If you can help, even for an hour or two, getting the papers ready to mail, contact AllenAlchian@ocn.me or (719) 488-3455.
With our new on-line calendar, you can easily search for your favorite events, view upcoming events in a variety of formats (daily, weekly, monthly, etc.) and add events of interest to the calendar on your mobile device or computer.
Want your event listed in our on-line and print calendar?
Our Community Calendar carries listings 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. Complimentary calendar listings are included, when requested, for events advertised in the current issue. Click the button below to request listing of your events.
Keep up with fast-moving developments in the Tri-Lakes area with the OCN app!
The OCN app alerts you to upcoming events you don’t want to miss, lists the latest articles, podcasts, photo collections, comments, etc. It updates automatically to keep you informed.
In the screenshot below, the app is reporting 10 new upcoming events including a car show, farmers’ market, D38 school board meeting, and Monument Town Council meeting.
Just click the button below for a description of the latest version of the OCN app and detailed instructions on installing it on your smartphone, tablet, laptop, Chromebook, or desktop computer.
This email is an edition of the Our Community Newsletter. We also offer separate monthly email messages for those interested in information about OCN advertising. If you wish to also receive those email messages, please let me know or click on “manage your subscription” at the bottom of every message I sent. That will take you to a web page where you can update your information and preferences.
If you do not wish to receive future email messages of this type, please let me know at johnheiser@ocn.me and I will take care of it immediately.
Our Community News (OCN) offers interactive features on its website for posting questions and comments on articles, columns, letters, events, and podcasts.
The site provides two audio options: brief AI-generated highlights and full verbatim readings, with two monthly podcasts featuring large animated subtitles.
Podcasts can be accessed on YouTube, Apple Podcasts, and Spotify, but the best experience is on ocn.me/podcast.htm, where segment lengths are displayed and skipping is easy.
The online calendar is now available at ocn.me/events, allowing search for events and easy addition to calendar programs.
Short clips of local events are available on OCN's YouTube channel, with playlists at youtube.com/@OurCommunityNews.
A free email newsletter and mobile/desktop app keep users informed with breaking news, alerts, and updates, plus personalized favorites and automatically updated content.
At Our Community News (OCN), we are excited to provide great ways to help you connect better with our vibrant Tri-Lakes community.
Interactive website features
Our website lets you post questions and comments on articles, columns, letters, events, and podcasts. Share your thoughts. Join the conversation.
Enjoy two audio OCN content options: brief AI-generated highlights (1-2 minutes) or full verbatim readings. Explore now at www.ocn.me!!
Our two monthly audio podcasts offer large animated subtitles readable on smartphones. One presents highlights from all of the news articles and columns and the other reads the complete articles and columns.
While you can listen to or watch our podcasts on YouTube (www.tinyurl.com/OCNonYouTube), Apple Podcasts (www.tinyurl.com/OCNonApple), or Spotify (www.tinyurl.com/OCNonSpotify), we think you will have the best experience listening or watching on our website at ocn.me/podcast.htm where the length of each segment is displayed and you can easily skip to the segments that are of the greatest interest to you.
Check out our On-Line Calendar
The extensive community calendar that we carry in every issue is now on-line at ocn.me/events. You can search for your favorite events and easily add them to your calendar program.
Watch short clips of local events on OCN’s YouTube Channel
Relive holiday parades, talent show performances, and more on our YouTube channel. Check out our playlists at youtube.com/@OurCommunityNews and subscribe today.
Stay informed with email newsletter and mobile and desktop app
Get breaking news, event alerts, and exclusive updates between our monthly issues. Sign up for our free email newsletter at ocn.me/newslettersignup
Our mobile and desktop app at ocn.me/app alerts you to upcoming events you don’t want to miss, lists our latest newsletters, articles, podcasts, and photo collections updated automatically to keep you informed. Create a personal favorites list of articles and upcoming events.
Over 21,000 copies of our April 4th issue will be mailed Thu., April 2nd.
All the articles, letters, columns, snapshots, notices, and community calendar events will be posted at www.ocn.me.
Audio files will be posted for all the articles and the audio highlights and audio articles podcasts have been broadcast to Spotify, Apple Podcasts, and Pandora and posted on our YouTube channel.
WMMI Spring Break Camps start Tue. Palmer Lake BOT next Thu.
Readers should assume that event information published in this newsletter is subject to change and information should be confirmed a day or two before the event by calling the information number or checking the organization’s website. See page < 22 > and page < 23 > or check wp.ocn.me/events for event locations and other details of these and many other local events.
OCN Mailing Days, Thu., Apr. 2 & Apr. 30, approx. 7-8:30 am. If you can help, even for an hour or two, getting the papers ready to mail, contact AllenAlchian@ocn.me or (719) 488-3455.
With our new on-line calendar, you can easily search for your favorite events, view upcoming events in a variety of formats (daily, weekly, monthly, etc.) and add events of interest to the calendar on your mobile device or computer.
Want your event listed in our on-line and print calendar?
Our Community Calendar carries listings 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. Complimentary calendar listings are included, when requested, for events advertised in the current issue. Click the button below to request listing of your events.
Keep up with fast-moving developments in the Tri-Lakes area with the OCN app!
The OCN app alerts you to upcoming events you don’t want to miss, lists the latest articles, podcasts, photo collections, comments, etc. It updates automatically to keep you informed.
In the screenshot below, the app is reporting 10 new upcoming events including a car show, farmers’ market, D38 school board meeting, and Monument Town Council meeting.
Just click the button below for a description of the latest version of the OCN app and detailed instructions on installing it on your smartphone, tablet, laptop, Chromebook, or desktop computer.
This email is an edition of the Our Community Newsletter. We also offer separate monthly email messages for those interested in information about OCN advertising. If you wish to also receive those email messages, please let me know or click on “manage your subscription” at the bottom of every message I sent. That will take you to a web page where you can update your information and preferences.
If you do not wish to receive future email messages of this type, please let me know at johnheiser@ocn.me and I will take care of it immediately.
The choirs from Palmer Ridge High School (PRHS), Lewis Palmer High School (LPHS) and Lewis Palmer Middle School (LPMS) held a combined choir concert at PRHS auditorium on Mar. 17. Many of the selections were a-capella and each choir performed separately before the combined choirs, all 177 students, performed together. Performances included poems written by current and former students that were set to music by Trey Makkler. Mrs. Madeline Douthit directed the LPHS Mixed Choir, Treble Voices, PRHS Chamber Singers, and Women’s Ensemble, and Mrs. Lee Meyer directed the LPMS choir. Photo by Steve Pate
Palmer Ridge High School (PRHS) senior Xavier Gonzalez won the top prize of $2,000 at the Monument Hill Kiwanis Club’s Stars of Tomorrow talent show on March 15. Gonzalez’s piano playing wowed the judges at the competition held at PRHS. Whether it was trying to compare instrumentals to gymnastics or singing and musical theatre or if it was just the talent of the performers, it took the judges about 45 minutes to make their decisions, much longer than usual. The second-place high school prize of $1,000 went to Bonneyclaire Patterson of PRHS who played baritone sax while the $500 third-place prize was won by Lewis-Palmer senior Jonathan Lilley who sang a musical theater number. Among middle-schoolers, the $750 top prize went to Lewis-Palmer pianist Jack Wittenborn while homeschooled violist Katherine Rose Johnson took home the $500 prize. Finally, fifth-grade pianist Esther Hunt of Prairie Winds won the $500 elementary school award. Pictured from the left are Esther Hunt, Jack Wittenborn, Katherine Rose Johnson, Xavier Gonzalez, Bonneyclaire Patterson, and Jonathan Lilley. Photo. by Michael Weinfeld.
Our Community News Managing Editor Michael Weinfeld received Monument Hill Kiwanis Club’s highest honor at the club’s weekly meeting at Big Red on March 14. Kiwanian Ted Bauman presented Weinfeld with the President’s Award in the form of a plaque containing the words “In grateful appreciation.” Bauman praised Weinfeld for the press coverage he’s given the club and “what you do in the community.” Weinfeld said Kiwanis is a fun group to cover because he gets to attend the Fourth of July parade, the Stars of Tomorrow talent show and all the club’s “great work.” Weinfeld’s wife, Tia M. Mayer, told the group “He loves what he does. It’s not a chore, it’s a passion.” From left are, MHKC president Jim Head, Mayer, and Weinfeld. Photo by Bob Harrigan.
Monument is requesting suggestions for the name of the new road associated with the Conexus development on Old Denver Highway. To submit your suggestions, click the button below.
Reconstruction of the ponds at Fox Run Park continues from draining the ponds, to demolition of the gazebo and surrounding area. The gazebo had been built in the 1980‘s and needed to rebuilt, along with the existing amphitheater. The new gazebo and amphitheater will be ADA (American Disability Act) accessible. Ben Dumakowski, North District Supervisor with El Paso County Parks asks that everyone stay away from the construction area and do not cross where the road is closed or the chain link fence that goes around the pond area. Construction is expected to be completed later this summer. Photo provided by Friends of Fox Run Park
Below are AI-generated highlights of the Monument Town Council meeting Mar. 16. The timestamps in parentheses indicate the approximate points in the video of the meeting where the topics were discussed. Our April 4th issue will have detailed coverage of this meeting.
Meeting Call to Order and Officer Recognition: Mayor Mitch LaKind called the meeting to order, and the Council recognized and thanked Officer Max Ellis for his service to the community as he prepared to begin a new chapter. (00:00:03)
Beacon Lite Road Water Tank Site Annexation Findings: The Council approved Resolution 17-2026, which established the findings of fact for the annexation of the water tank site, noting that the property met contiguity requirements and had received a waiver from the county for an impact report. (00:04:32)
Approval of Water Tank Site Annexation: Following the findings, the Council passed Ordinance 04-2026 to officially annex the Beacon Lite Road Water Tank Site, a process that Planning Director Dan Ungerleider noted had been underway for several years. (00:30:51)
Adoption of International Fire and Wildfire Resiliency Codes: The Council approved Ordinance 05-2026, adopting the 2021 International Fire Code and the Colorado Wildfire Resiliency Code to align with regional standards and enhance community safety. (00:36:28)
Comprehensive Update to Health and Safety Regulations: Ordinance 06-2026 was passed to repeal and readopt Title 8 of the Municipal Code, modernizing various health and safety regulations, including those concerning abandoned vehicles and noise-making devices. (00:44:28)
Municipal Court Scheduling Flexibility: The Council approved Ordinance 07-2026, which allows the Municipal Court Administrator to adjust court session dates and times via administrative order to better handle emergencies or weather-related delays. (00:58:07)
Prohibition of Graywater Treatment Works: In accordance with House Bill 24-1362, the Council passed Ordinance 03-2026 to prohibit graywater systems within the town, citing concerns over potential impacts on reusable water supplies and the complexity of local permitting. (01:03:41)
Purchase of New Water Emergency Response Vehicle: Resolution 18-2026 was approved for the purchase of a 2024 water emergency response truck for $97,531.00, replacing a 20-year-old vehicle that had become costly to maintain. (01:06:37)
Update to Town Investment Policy: Finance Director Jennifer Phillips presented, and the Council approved, Resolution 19-2026 to update the town’s annual investment policy, emphasizing the strategy of safety first, liquidity second, and yield third. (01:10:46)
Community Organization Announcements: Terri Hayes of the Tri-Lakes Chamber of Commerce announced their annual dinner on April 2nd, and Haley Chapin of Tri-Lakes Cares invited the community to the “Taste of Tri-Lakes Cares” event on May 13th. (01:15:22)
Discussion on Relocating Public Comments: During Council comments, members discussed and directed staff to test moving public comments for non-agenda items to the beginning of future meetings to allow citizens to speak sooner. (01:24:57)
Review of Public Hearing Rebuttal Procedures: The Council discussed potential changes to public hearing rules, specifically exploring ways to allow the public a final rebuttal after an applicant’s closing statement during quasi-judicial hearings. (01:27:00)
AI-Generated Highlights of the Mar. 12 meeting of the Palmer Lake BOT
Below are AI-generated highlights of the Palmer Lake Board of Trustees meeting Mar. 12. The timestamps in parentheses indicate the approximate points in the video of the meeting where the topics were discussed. Our April 4th issue will have detailed coverage of this meeting.
Legal Counsel Interviews (Workshop): The Board convened a workshop prior to the regular meeting to interview potential legal firms, specifically JVAM and Wyatt Hamilton Finley (WHF), to fill the vacancy for the Town Attorney position. (00:00:17)
Annexation Withdrawal Discussion (Executive Session): The Board entered into an executive session to receive legal advice regarding the withdrawal of the Monument Ridge West, LLC annexation application by a letter dated February 4, 2026. (01:41:53)
2024 Draft Audit Presentation: Jim Hinkle of Hinkle & Company presented the draft 2024 financial audit, reporting an “unmodified” (clean) opinion on the Town’s financial statements, internal controls, and federal program compliance. (01:48:56)
Acceptance of 2024 Audit with Stipulations: After extensive discussion regarding capital outlays and fund reporting, the Board approved Resolution 17-2026 accepting the audit, provided the auditor resolves specific trustee questions within the following two weeks. (02:50:13)
Retention of Auditor for 2025: Staff received direction to continue audit services with Hinkle & Company for the 2025 fiscal year to maintain continuity during a period of administrative and operational challenges. (02:54:52)
Parks and Trails Commission Appointment: The Board approved Resolution 18-2026 to appoint Carolyn Kincade, a local veterinarian and outdoor advocate, to a vacancy on the Parks and Trails Commission. (02:59:11)
Negotiations for New Town Attorney: Following the workshop interviews, the Board directed the Interim Town Administrator to begin contract negotiations with the firm Wyatt Hamilton Finley (WHF) to serve as the new Town Attorney. (03:19:00)
Financial and Banking Policy Review: Trustee Mosley initiated a discussion on Resolution 4-2018, requesting that the Board receive full monthly bank statements and separate check registers for the water and general funds to enhance fiduciary oversight. (03:14:44)
CMI Termination Controversy: The Board discussed the sudden resignation of planning consultant firm Community Matters Institute (CMI), debating the timeline of when resignation letters were received by staff versus when they were disclosed to the Trustees. (03:45:36)
Planning Consultant RFP: Due to the lack of in-house planning staff following CMI’s resignation, the Board directed staff to develop and issue a Request for Proposals (RFP) for a new Town Planning Consultant. (04:02:24)
Town Administrator Recruitment Update: Recruiter SGR provided an update on the search for a permanent Town Administrator, recommending that the Board reconsider the proposed $130,000–$160,000 salary range to ensure it is competitive enough to attract qualified candidates. (04:03:56)
Public Comment on Glen Park “Strip Mining”: Residents raised concerns during public comment about perceived “strip mining” and land disturbance in open spaces; Parks officials clarified the work was actually a town-led project to build a retaining wall to prevent mud floods at the Glen Park tennis courts. (05:03:11)
AI-Generated Highlights of the Mar. 2 meeting of the Monument Town Council
Below are AI-generated highlights of the Monument Town Council meeting Mar. 2. The timestamps in parentheses indicate the approximate points in the video of the meeting where the topics were discussed. Our April 4th issue will have detailed coverage of this meeting.
Tri-Lakes Chamber of Commerce Services Report: Terri Hayes, CEO of the Tri-Lakes Chamber of Commerce, presented a comprehensive update on the services the Chamber provides to the town, including tourism management, economic development advocacy, and the maintenance of downtown signature events. (00:03:01)
Public Safety Advocacy History: During her presentation, Terri Hayes highlighted the Chamber’s pivotal role in successfully passing the town’s half-cent public safety sales tax, which provides ongoing funding for the police department. (00:27:13)
“Rename the Road” Contest Launch: Senior Planner Jenna Gorney announced a community-driven contest to rename a segment of Old Denver Road (currently called Crossfield Road) between Santa Fe Avenue and Wagon Gap Trail. Residents are invited to submit suggestions via the town website starting March 9. (00:56:10)
Fountain Creek Watershed District Representation: Commissioner Wysong discussed a recent resolution supporting state legislation that would grant the Town of Monument a permanent, dedicated seat on the Fountain Creek Watershed District board. (01:03:01)
Mountain Pine Beetle Outbreak Warning: Commissioner Wysong briefed the Council on an executive order identifying a significant mountain pine beetle outbreak along the Front Range. He expressed concerns regarding the current lack of state funding for mitigation efforts. (01:07:20)
Proposed Prohibition of Graywater Systems: Public Works Director Thomas Tharnish introduced Ordinance 03-2026, which would prohibit the installation of graywater treatment works. The move is intended to protect the town’s water return flows and avoid complex backflow prevention requirements. (01:15:51)
Expansion of Graywater Ordinance Scope: During the ordinance discussion, the Council debated whether the prohibition should apply only to the town’s water service area or town-wide. They ultimately directed staff to modify the language to cover all town boundaries. (01:21:04)
Continuation of Graywater Public Hearing: Due to the requested language changes, the Council voted unanimously to continue the public hearing for the graywater ordinance until the March 16 meeting. (01:29:34)
Approval of RESPEC Master Service Agreement: The Council passed Resolution 14-2026, a $532,899 agreement with RESPEC Company LLC to provide construction services and observation for the Beacon Lite Road pipeline and the Monument Hill water tank projects. (01:30:52)
Infrastructure Update on Monument Hill Tank: Staff confirmed that the existing water tank on Monument Hill is deteriorating and under state scrutiny, emphasizing the urgency of completing the new tank project within the next 9 to 12 months. (01:38:51)
Palmer Lake Board and Legal Updates: During public comment, Trustee Jüka from Palmer Lake updated the Council on their successful appointment of new board members and their ongoing search for a new town attorney and police staff. (01:43:13)
Finalization of Referral Letter to El Paso County: Following an executive session, the Council directed the planning director and town attorneys to finalize and submit a referral letter to El Paso County opposing the Buc-ee’s-related administrative boundary line adjustment and grading permit application. (01:52:49)
Over 23,000 copies of our Mar. 7th issue were mailed today (Thu., Mar. 5th).
All the articles, letters, columns, snapshots, notices, and community calendar events have been posted at www.ocn.me.
Audio files have been posted for all the articles and the audio highlights and audio articles podcasts have been broadcast to Spotify, Apple Podcasts, and Pandora and posted on our YouTube channel.
WMMI Spring Break Camps start Tue. Palmer Lake BOT next Thu.
Readers should assume that event information published in this newsletter is subject to change and information should be confirmed a day or two before the event by calling the information number or checking the organization’s website. See page < 22 > and page < 23 > or check wp.ocn.me/events for event locations and other details of these and many other local events.
Estate Sale, Fri.-Sun., Mar. 20-22, 9 am-5 pm, Sun. 10 am-4 pm. Briargate. See ad on page < 24 >.
OCN mailing days, Thu., Apr. 2, approx. 7-8:30 am. If you can help, even for an hour or two, getting the papers ready to mail, contact AllenAlchian@ocn.me or (719) 488-3455.
With our new on-line calendar, you can easily search for your favorite events, view upcoming events in a variety of formats (daily, weekly, monthly, etc.) and add events of interest to the calendar on your mobile device or computer.
Want your event listed in our on-line and print calendar?
Our Community Calendar carries listings 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. Complimentary calendar listings are included, when requested, for events advertised in the current issue. Click the button below to request listing of your events.
Keep up with fast-moving developments in the Tri-Lakes area with the OCN app!
The OCN app alerts you to upcoming events you don’t want to miss, lists the latest articles, podcasts, photo collections, comments, etc. It updates automatically to keep you informed.
In the screenshot below, the app is reporting 10 new upcoming events including a car show, farmers’ market, D38 school board meeting, and Monument Town Council meeting.
Just click the button below for a description of the latest version of the OCN app and detailed instructions on installing it on your smartphone, tablet, laptop, Chromebook, or desktop computer.
This email is an edition of the Our Community Newsletter. We also offer separate monthly email messages for those interested in information about OCN advertising. If you wish to also receive those email messages, please let me know or click on “manage your subscription” at the bottom of every message I sent. That will take you to a web page where you can update your information and preferences.
If you do not wish to receive future email messages of this type, please let me know at johnheiser@ocn.me and I will take care of it immediately.
The choirs from Palmer Ridge High School (PRHS), Lewis Palmer High School (LPHS) and Lewis Palmer Middle School (LPMS) held a combined choir concert at PRHS auditorium on Mar. 17. Many of the selections were a-capella and each choir performed separately before the combined choirs, all 177 students, performed together. Performances included poems written by current and former students that were set to music by Trey Makkler. Mrs. Madeline Douthit directed the LPHS Mixed Choir, Treble Voices, PRHS Chamber Singers, and Women’s Ensemble, and Mrs. Lee Meyer directed the LPMS choir. Photo by Steve Pate.PRHS Chamber Singers. Photo by Steve Pate.
Our Community News Managing Editor Michael Weinfeld received Monument Hill Kiwanis Club’s highest honor at the club’s weekly meeting at Big Red on March 14. Kiwanian Ted Bauman presented Weinfeld with the President’s Award in the form of a plaque containing the words “In grateful appreciation.” Bauman praised Weinfeld for the press coverage he’s given the club and “what you do in the community.” Weinfeld said Kiwanis is a fun group to cover because he gets to attend the Fourth of July parade, the Stars of Tomorrow talent show and all the club’s “great work.” Weinfeld’s wife, Tia M. Mayer, told the group “He loves what he does. It’s not a chore, it’s a passion.” From left are, MHKC president Jim Head, Mayer, and Weinfeld. Photo by Bob Harrigan.
Reconstruction of the ponds at Fox Run Park continues from draining the ponds, to demolition of the gazebo and surrounding area. The gazebo had been built in the 1980‘s and needed to rebuilt, along with the existing amphitheater. The new gazebo and amphitheater will be ADA (American Disability Act) accessible. Ben Dumakowski, North District Supervisor with El Paso County Parks asks that everyone stay away from the construction area and do not cross where the road is closed or the chain link fence that goes around the pond area. Construction is expected to be completed later this summer. Photo provided by Friends of Fox Run Park
Palmer Ridge High School (PRHS) senior Xavier Gonzalez won the top prize of $2,000 at the Monument Hill Kiwanis Club’s Stars of Tomorrow talent show on March 15. Gonzalez’s piano playing wowed the judges at the competition held at PRHS. Whether it was trying to compare instrumentals to gymnastics or singing and musical theatre or if it was just the talent of the performers, it took the judges about 45 minutes to make their decisions, much longer than usual. The second-place high school prize of $1,000 went to Bonneyclaire Patterson of PRHS who played baritone sax while the $500 third-place prize was won by Lewis-Palmer senior Jonathan Lilley who sang a musical theater number. Among middle-schoolers, the $750 top prize went to Lewis-Palmer pianist Jack Wittenborn while homeschooled violist Katherine Rose Johnson took home the $500 prize. Finally, fifth-grade pianist Esther Hunt of Prairie Winds won the $500 elementary school award. Pictured from the left are Esther Hunt, Jack Wittenborn, Katherine Rose Johnson, Xavier Gonzalez, Bonneyclaire Patterson, and Jonathan Lilley.Photo. by Michael Weinfeld.At the Monument Hill Kiwanis Club’s Stars of Tomorrow talent show on March 15, Xavier Gonzalez plays the piano. Photo by Michael WeinfeldAt the Monument Hill Kiwanis Club’s Stars of Tomorrow talent show on March 15, Bonneyclaire Patterson plays the baritone sax. Photo by Michael WeinfeldAt the Monument Hill Kiwanis Club’s Stars of Tomorrow talent show on March 15, Jonathan Lilley sings a musical theater number. Photo by Michael WeinfeldAt the Monument Hill Kiwanis Club’s Stars of Tomorrow talent show on March 15, Katherine Rose Johnson plays the viola. Photo by Michael WeinfeldAt the Monument Hill Kiwanis Club’s Stars of Tomorrow talent show on March 15, Jack Wittenborn plays the piano. Photo by Michael WeinfeldAt the Monument Hill Kiwanis Club’s Stars of Tomorrow talent show on March 15, Esther Hunt plays the piano. Photo by Michael WeinfeldAt the Monument Hill Kiwanis Club’s Stars of Tomorrow talent show on March 15, Esther Hunt is all smiles after receiving her award from MHKC President Jim Head. Photo by Michael WeinfeldAt the Monument Hill Kiwanis Club’s Stars of Tomorrow talent show on March 15, Jonathan Lilley accepts his third-place trophy from MHKC President Jim Head. Photo by Michael WeinfeldAt the Monument Hill Kiwanis Club’s Stars of Tomorrow talent show on March 15, Bonnieclaire Patterson and MHKC President Jim Head. Photo by Michael WeinfeldAt the Monument Hill Kiwanis Club’s Stars of Tomorrow talent show on March 15, Xavier Gonzalez and MHKC President Jim Head. Photo by Michael WeinfeldAt the Monument Hill Kiwanis Club’s Stars of Tomorrow talent show on March 15, Katherine Rose Johnson and MHKC President Jim Head. Photo by Michael WeinfeldAt the Monument Hill Kiwanis Club’s Stars of Tomorrow talent show on March 15, Jack Wittenborn and MHKC President Jim Head. Photo by Michael Weinfeld
“As part of the new Conexus development, their team completed a realignment of Old Denver Road. This realignment left the road segment between Santa Fe Avenue and Wagon Gap Trail in need of a new name. Although the name “Crossfield Road” was assigned initially, we need something better… We need YOU!
Take a look at the documents and map below and fill out the form with your suggestions. For specifics questions, not found in the FAQs, please reach out to planning at: planning@tomgov.org
Have questions on the why and how? Check out our FAQ document HERE!
Interested in submitting a name suggestion? Read the criteria HERE!
What happens next – After the contest closes, names will be evaluated for appropriateness and narrowed to 3 options for Town Council to vote on at the April 20th regular meeting.”
On March 13th, El Paso County approved the boundary line adjustment (BLA) requested to expand the parcel proposed for the Buc-ee’s travel center to about 53 acres.
Tri-Lakes Preservation is holding a meeting tonight 6-8 pm at the Tri-Lakes YMCA, 17250 Jackson Creek Parkway to discuss the status and possible future directions of the proposed project.
Below are AI-generated highlights of the Monument Town Council meeting Mar. 16. The timestamps in parentheses indicate the approximate points in the video of the meeting where the topics were discussed. Our April 4th issue will have detailed coverage of this meeting.
Meeting Call to Order and Officer Recognition: Mayor Mitch LaKind called the meeting to order, and the Council recognized and thanked Officer Max Ellis for his service to the community as he prepared to begin a new chapter. (00:00:03)
Beacon Lite Road Water Tank Site Annexation Findings: The Council approved Resolution 17-2026, which established the findings of fact for the annexation of the water tank site, noting that the property met contiguity requirements and had received a waiver from the county for an impact report. (00:04:32)
Approval of Water Tank Site Annexation: Following the findings, the Council passed Ordinance 04-2026 to officially annex the Beacon Lite Road Water Tank Site, a process that Planning Director Dan Ungerleider noted had been underway for several years. (00:30:51)
Adoption of International Fire and Wildfire Resiliency Codes: The Council approved Ordinance 05-2026, adopting the 2021 International Fire Code and the Colorado Wildfire Resiliency Code to align with regional standards and enhance community safety. (00:36:28)
Comprehensive Update to Health and Safety Regulations: Ordinance 06-2026 was passed to repeal and readopt Title 8 of the Municipal Code, modernizing various health and safety regulations, including those concerning abandoned vehicles and noise-making devices. (00:44:28)
Municipal Court Scheduling Flexibility: The Council approved Ordinance 07-2026, which allows the Municipal Court Administrator to adjust court session dates and times via administrative order to better handle emergencies or weather-related delays. (00:58:07)
Prohibition of Graywater Treatment Works: In accordance with House Bill 24-1362, the Council passed Ordinance 03-2026 to prohibit graywater systems within the town, citing concerns over potential impacts on reusable water supplies and the complexity of local permitting. (01:03:41)
Purchase of New Water Emergency Response Vehicle: Resolution 18-2026 was approved for the purchase of a 2024 water emergency response truck for $97,531.00, replacing a 20-year-old vehicle that had become costly to maintain. (01:06:37)
Update to Town Investment Policy: Finance Director Jennifer Phillips presented, and the Council approved, Resolution 19-2026 to update the town’s annual investment policy, emphasizing the strategy of safety first, liquidity second, and yield third. (01:10:46)
Community Organization Announcements: Terri Hayes of the Tri-Lakes Chamber of Commerce announced their annual dinner on April 2nd, and Haley Chapin of Tri-Lakes Cares invited the community to the “Taste of Tri-Lakes Cares” event on May 13th. (01:15:22)
Discussion on Relocating Public Comments: During Council comments, members discussed and directed staff to test moving public comments for non-agenda items to the beginning of future meetings to allow citizens to speak sooner. (01:24:57)
Review of Public Hearing Rebuttal Procedures: The Council discussed potential changes to public hearing rules, specifically exploring ways to allow the public a final rebuttal after an applicant’s closing statement during quasi-judicial hearings. (01:27:00)
AI-Generated Highlights of the Mar. 12 meeting of the Palmer Lake BOT
Below are AI-generated highlights of the Palmer Lake Board of Trustees meeting Mar. 12. The timestamps in parentheses indicate the approximate points in the video of the meeting where the topics were discussed. Our April 4th issue will have detailed coverage of this meeting.
Legal Counsel Interviews (Workshop): The Board convened a workshop prior to the regular meeting to interview potential legal firms, specifically JVAM and Wyatt Hamilton Finley (WHF), to fill the vacancy for the Town Attorney position. (00:00:17)
Annexation Withdrawal Discussion (Executive Session): The Board entered into an executive session to receive legal advice regarding the withdrawal of the Monument Ridge West, LLC annexation application by a letter dated February 4, 2026. (01:41:53)
2024 Draft Audit Presentation: Jim Hinkle of Hinkle & Company presented the draft 2024 financial audit, reporting an “unmodified” (clean) opinion on the Town’s financial statements, internal controls, and federal program compliance. (01:48:56)
Acceptance of 2024 Audit with Stipulations: After extensive discussion regarding capital outlays and fund reporting, the Board approved Resolution 17-2026 accepting the audit, provided the auditor resolves specific trustee questions within the following two weeks. (02:50:13)
Retention of Auditor for 2025: Staff received direction to continue audit services with Hinkle & Company for the 2025 fiscal year to maintain continuity during a period of administrative and operational challenges. (02:54:52)
Parks and Trails Commission Appointment: The Board approved Resolution 18-2026 to appoint Carolyn Kincade, a local veterinarian and outdoor advocate, to a vacancy on the Parks and Trails Commission. (02:59:11)
Negotiations for New Town Attorney: Following the workshop interviews, the Board directed the Interim Town Administrator to begin contract negotiations with the firm Wyatt Hamilton Finley (WHF) to serve as the new Town Attorney. (03:19:00)
Financial and Banking Policy Review: Trustee Mosley initiated a discussion on Resolution 4-2018, requesting that the Board receive full monthly bank statements and separate check registers for the water and general funds to enhance fiduciary oversight. (03:14:44)
CMI Termination Controversy: The Board discussed the sudden resignation of planning consultant firm Community Matters Institute (CMI), debating the timeline of when resignation letters were received by staff versus when they were disclosed to the Trustees. (03:45:36)
Planning Consultant RFP: Due to the lack of in-house planning staff following CMI’s resignation, the Board directed staff to develop and issue a Request for Proposals (RFP) for a new Town Planning Consultant. (04:02:24)
Town Administrator Recruitment Update: Recruiter SGR provided an update on the search for a permanent Town Administrator, recommending that the Board reconsider the proposed $130,000–$160,000 salary range to ensure it is competitive enough to attract qualified candidates. (04:03:56)
Public Comment on Glen Park “Strip Mining”: Residents raised concerns during public comment about perceived “strip mining” and land disturbance in open spaces; Parks officials clarified the work was actually a town-led project to build a retaining wall to prevent mud floods at the Glen Park tennis courts. (05:03:11)
AI-Generated Highlights of the Mar. 2 meeting of the Monument Town Council
Below are AI-generated highlights of the Monument Town Council meeting Mar. 2. The timestamps in parentheses indicate the approximate points in the video of the meeting where the topics were discussed. Our April 4th issue will have detailed coverage of this meeting.
Tri-Lakes Chamber of Commerce Services Report: Terri Hayes, CEO of the Tri-Lakes Chamber of Commerce, presented a comprehensive update on the services the Chamber provides to the town, including tourism management, economic development advocacy, and the maintenance of downtown signature events. (00:03:01)
Public Safety Advocacy History: During her presentation, Terri Hayes highlighted the Chamber’s pivotal role in successfully passing the town’s half-cent public safety sales tax, which provides ongoing funding for the police department. (00:27:13)
“Rename the Road” Contest Launch: Senior Planner Jenna Gorney announced a community-driven contest to rename a segment of Old Denver Road (currently called Crossfield Road) between Santa Fe Avenue and Wagon Gap Trail. Residents are invited to submit suggestions via the town website starting March 9. (00:56:10)
Fountain Creek Watershed District Representation: Commissioner Wysong discussed a recent resolution supporting state legislation that would grant the Town of Monument a permanent, dedicated seat on the Fountain Creek Watershed District board. (01:03:01)
Mountain Pine Beetle Outbreak Warning: Commissioner Wysong briefed the Council on an executive order identifying a significant mountain pine beetle outbreak along the Front Range. He expressed concerns regarding the current lack of state funding for mitigation efforts. (01:07:20)
Proposed Prohibition of Graywater Systems: Public Works Director Thomas Tharnish introduced Ordinance 03-2026, which would prohibit the installation of graywater treatment works. The move is intended to protect the town’s water return flows and avoid complex backflow prevention requirements. (01:15:51)
Expansion of Graywater Ordinance Scope: During the ordinance discussion, the Council debated whether the prohibition should apply only to the town’s water service area or town-wide. They ultimately directed staff to modify the language to cover all town boundaries. (01:21:04)
Continuation of Graywater Public Hearing: Due to the requested language changes, the Council voted unanimously to continue the public hearing for the graywater ordinance until the March 16 meeting. (01:29:34)
Approval of RESPEC Master Service Agreement: The Council passed Resolution 14-2026, a $532,899 agreement with RESPEC Company LLC to provide construction services and observation for the Beacon Lite Road pipeline and the Monument Hill water tank projects. (01:30:52)
Infrastructure Update on Monument Hill Tank: Staff confirmed that the existing water tank on Monument Hill is deteriorating and under state scrutiny, emphasizing the urgency of completing the new tank project within the next 9 to 12 months. (01:38:51)
Palmer Lake Board and Legal Updates: During public comment, Trustee Jüka from Palmer Lake updated the Council on their successful appointment of new board members and their ongoing search for a new town attorney and police staff. (01:43:13)
Finalization of Referral Letter to El Paso County: Following an executive session, the Council directed the planning director and town attorneys to finalize and submit a referral letter to El Paso County opposing the Buc-ee’s-related administrative boundary line adjustment and grading permit application. (01:52:49)
Above: On March 5, Palmer Ridge High School (PRHS) culminated a week of activities that raised $30,000 for Make-A-Wish Colorado by celebrating eight-year-old student Brooks (pictured above), whose wish is to go to Disney World. Brooks has a congenital heart disease. She got a standing ovation from the crowd in the gym and got to throw a pie in the face of English teacher Matt Frost. The celebration wrapped up with teacher, Daniel Russel getting his head shaved, something he agreed to do if donations hit the $30,000 mark. The event began on a somber note, as Elijah Arnholt’s mother addressed the crowd and delivered a tribute to her son who was a PRHS student. He passed away a year ago in March at the age of 18 after a courageous battle with Duchenne Muscular Dystrophy. Photo courtesy of D-38
Over 23,000 copies of our Mar. 7th issue were mailed today (Thu., Mar. 5th).
All the articles, letters, columns, snapshots, notices, and community calendar events have been posted at www.ocn.me.
Audio files have been posted for all the articles and the audio highlights and audio articles podcasts have been broadcast to Spotify, Apple Podcasts, and Pandora and posted on our YouTube channel.
WMMI Spring Break Camps start Tue. Palmer Lake BOT next Thu.
Readers should assume that event information published in this newsletter is subject to change and information should be confirmed a day or two before the event by calling the information number or checking the organization’s website. See page < 22 > and page < 23 > or check wp.ocn.me/events for event locations and other details of these and many other local events.
OCN mailing days, Thu., Apr. 2, approx. 7-8:30 am. If you can help, even for an hour or two, getting the papers ready to mail, contact AllenAlchian@ocn.me or (719) 488-3455.
With our new on-line calendar, you can easily search for your favorite events, view upcoming events in a variety of formats (daily, weekly, monthly, etc.) and add events of interest to the calendar on your mobile device or computer.
Want your event listed in our on-line and print calendar?
Our Community Calendar carries listings 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. Complimentary calendar listings are included, when requested, for events advertised in the current issue. Click the button below to request listing of your events.
Keep up with fast-moving developments in the Tri-Lakes area with the OCN app!
The OCN app alerts you to upcoming events you don’t want to miss, lists the latest articles, podcasts, photo collections, comments, etc. It updates automatically to keep you informed.
In the screenshot below, the app is reporting 10 new upcoming events including a car show, farmers’ market, D38 school board meeting, and Monument Town Council meeting.
Just click the button below for a description of the latest version of the OCN app and detailed instructions on installing it on your smartphone, tablet, laptop, Chromebook, or desktop computer.
This email is an edition of the Our Community Newsletter. We also offer separate monthly email messages for those interested in information about OCN advertising. If you wish to also receive those email messages, please let me know or click on “manage your subscription” at the bottom of every message I sent. That will take you to a web page where you can update your information and preferences.
If you do not wish to receive future email messages of this type, please let me know at johnheiser@ocn.me and I will take care of it immediately.
Nearly 30 students from kindergarten to high school won trophies at the 19th annual Lewis-Palmer School District Chess Tournament at Bear Creek Elementary School (BCES) on March 7. A total of 119 kids took part in one of the largest school district chess tournaments in Colorado. Bode Scally from Prairie Winds Elementary (PWES) won the kindergarten division. Michael Iatrow, also from PWES, was tops among first graders. The second-grade winner was Chason Pace of Lewis-Palmer Elementary. BCES student Abraham Burruel finished first in the third-grade group. The fourth-grade trophy went to Simon Gonzalez-Smith of BCES. Among fifth graders, Bradley Walker of BCES was tops. The sixth-grade winner was Charles Troupe, who’s homeschooled. Kyle Fieber of Monument Academy won the middle school division, and the high school trophy went to Robbie Collier of Lewis-Palmer High School. Photo by Michael Weinfeld.
At 9 am this morning, El Paso County approved the boundary line adjustment (BLA) requested to expand the parcel proposed for the Buc-ee’s travel center to about 53 acres.
The Town of Monument which has submitted a letter urging disapproval of the BLA will hold a Talk with the Town tonight (Tue., March 10), 6 pm at the Monument Town Hall, 645 Beacon Lite Rd, Monument.
Above: On March 5, Palmer Ridge High School (PRHS) culminated a week of activities that raised $30,000 for Make-A-Wish Colorado by celebrating eight-year-old student Brooks (pictured above), whose wish is to go to Disney World. Brooks has a congenital heart disease. She got a standing ovation from the crowd in the gym and got to throw a pie in the face of English teacher Matt Frost. The celebration wrapped up with teacher, Daniel Russel getting his head shaved, something he agreed to do if donations hit the $30,000 mark. The event began on a somber note, as Elijah Arnholt’s mother addressed the crowd and delivered a tribute to her son who was a PRHS student. He passed away a year ago in March at the age of 18 after a courageous battle with Duchenne Muscular Dystrophy. Photo courtesy of D-38
AI-Generated Highlights of the Mar. 2 meeting of the Monument Town Council
Below are AI-generated highlights of the Monument Town Council meeting Mar. 2. The timestamps in parentheses indicate the approximate points in the video of the meeting where the topics were discussed. Our April 4th issue will have detailed coverage of this meeting.
Tri-Lakes Chamber of Commerce Services Report: Terri Hayes, CEO of the Tri-Lakes Chamber of Commerce, presented a comprehensive update on the services the Chamber provides to the town, including tourism management, economic development advocacy, and the maintenance of downtown signature events. (00:03:01)
Public Safety Advocacy History: During her presentation, Terri Hayes highlighted the Chamber’s pivotal role in successfully passing the town’s half-cent public safety sales tax, which provides ongoing funding for the police department. (00:27:13)
“Rename the Road” Contest Launch: Senior Planner Jenna Gorney announced a community-driven contest to rename a segment of Old Denver Road (currently called Crossfield Road) between Santa Fe Avenue and Wagon Gap Trail. Residents are invited to submit suggestions via the town website starting March 9. (00:56:10)
Fountain Creek Watershed District Representation: Commissioner Wysong discussed a recent resolution supporting state legislation that would grant the Town of Monument a permanent, dedicated seat on the Fountain Creek Watershed District board. (01:03:01)
Mountain Pine Beetle Outbreak Warning: Commissioner Wysong briefed the Council on an executive order identifying a significant mountain pine beetle outbreak along the Front Range. He expressed concerns regarding the current lack of state funding for mitigation efforts. (01:07:20)
Proposed Prohibition of Graywater Systems: Public Works Director Thomas Tharnish introduced Ordinance 03-2026, which would prohibit the installation of graywater treatment works. The move is intended to protect the town’s water return flows and avoid complex backflow prevention requirements. (01:15:51)
Expansion of Graywater Ordinance Scope: During the ordinance discussion, the Council debated whether the prohibition should apply only to the town’s water service area or town-wide. They ultimately directed staff to modify the language to cover all town boundaries. (01:21:04)
Continuation of Graywater Public Hearing: Due to the requested language changes, the Council voted unanimously to continue the public hearing for the graywater ordinance until the March 16 meeting. (01:29:34)
Approval of RESPEC Master Service Agreement: The Council passed Resolution 14-2026, a $532,899 agreement with RESPEC Company LLC to provide construction services and observation for the Beacon Lite Road pipeline and the Monument Hill water tank projects. (01:30:52)
Infrastructure Update on Monument Hill Tank: Staff confirmed that the existing water tank on Monument Hill is deteriorating and under state scrutiny, emphasizing the urgency of completing the new tank project within the next 9 to 12 months. (01:38:51)
Palmer Lake Board and Legal Updates: During public comment, Trustee Jüka from Palmer Lake updated the Council on their successful appointment of new board members and their ongoing search for a new town attorney and police staff. (01:43:13)
Finalization of Referral Letter to El Paso County: Following an executive session, the Council directed the planning director and town attorneys to finalize and submit a referral letter to El Paso County opposing the Buc-ee’s-related administrative boundary line adjustment and grading permit application. (01:52:49)
Over 23,000 copies of our Mar. 7th issue were mailed today (Thu., Mar. 5th).
All the articles, letters, columns, snapshots, notices, and community calendar events have been posted at www.ocn.me.
Audio files have been posted for all the articles and the audio highlights and audio articles podcasts have been broadcast to Spotify, Apple Podcasts, and Pandora and posted on our YouTube channel.
Readers should assume that event information published in this newsletter is subject to change and information should be confirmed a day or two before the event by calling the information number or checking the organization’s website. See page < 22 > and page < 23 > or check wp.ocn.me/events for event locations and other details of these and many other local events.
OCN mailing days, Thu., Apr. 2, approx. 7-8:30 am. If you can help, even for an hour or two, getting the papers ready to mail, contact AllenAlchian@ocn.me or (719) 488-3455.
With our new on-line calendar, you can easily search for your favorite events, view upcoming events in a variety of formats (daily, weekly, monthly, etc.) and add events of interest to the calendar on your mobile device or computer.
Want your event listed in our on-line and print calendar?
Our Community Calendar carries listings 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. Complimentary calendar listings are included, when requested, for events advertised in the current issue. Click the button below to request listing of your events.
Keep up with fast-moving developments in the Tri-Lakes area with the OCN app!
The OCN app alerts you to upcoming events you don’t want to miss, lists the latest articles, podcasts, photo collections, comments, etc. It updates automatically to keep you informed.
In the screenshot below, the app is reporting 10 new upcoming events including a car show, farmers’ market, D38 school board meeting, and Monument Town Council meeting.
Just click the button below for a description of the latest version of the OCN app and detailed instructions on installing it on your smartphone, tablet, laptop, Chromebook, or desktop computer.
This email is an edition of the Our Community Newsletter. We also offer separate monthly email messages for those interested in information about OCN advertising. If you wish to also receive those email messages, please let me know or click on “manage your subscription” at the bottom of every message I sent. That will take you to a web page where you can update your information and preferences.
If you do not wish to receive future email messages of this type, please let me know at johnheiser@ocn.me and I will take care of it immediately.
Above: On March 5, Palmer Ridge High School (PRHS) culminated a week of activities that raised $30,000 for Make-A-Wish Colorado by celebrating eight-year-old student Brooks (pictured above), whose wish is to go to Disney World. Brooks has a congenital heart disease. She got a standing ovation from the crowd in the gym and got to throw a pie in the face of English teacher Matt Frost. The celebration wrapped up with teacher, Daniel Russel getting his head shaved, something he agreed to do if donations hit the $30,000 mark. The event began on a somber note, as Elijah Arnholt’s mother addressed the crowd and delivered a tribute to her son who was a PRHS student. He passed away a year ago in March at the age of 18 after a courageous battle with Duchenne Muscular Dystrophy. Photo courtesy of D-38
AI-Generated Highlights of the Mar. 2 meeting of the Monument Town Council
Below are AI-generated highlights of the Monument Town Council meeting Mar. 2. The timestamps in parentheses indicate the approximate points in the video of the meeting where the topics were discussed. Our April 4th issue will have detailed coverage of this meeting.
Tri-Lakes Chamber of Commerce Services Report: Terri Hayes, CEO of the Tri-Lakes Chamber of Commerce, presented a comprehensive update on the services the Chamber provides to the town, including tourism management, economic development advocacy, and the maintenance of downtown signature events. (00:03:01)
Public Safety Advocacy History: During her presentation, Terri Hayes highlighted the Chamber’s pivotal role in successfully passing the town’s half-cent public safety sales tax, which provides ongoing funding for the police department. (00:27:13)
“Rename the Road” Contest Launch: Senior Planner Jenna Gorney announced a community-driven contest to rename a segment of Old Denver Road (currently called Crossfield Road) between Santa Fe Avenue and Wagon Gap Trail. Residents are invited to submit suggestions via the town website starting March 9. (00:56:10)
Fountain Creek Watershed District Representation: Commissioner Wysong discussed a recent resolution supporting state legislation that would grant the Town of Monument a permanent, dedicated seat on the Fountain Creek Watershed District board. (01:03:01)
Mountain Pine Beetle Outbreak Warning: Commissioner Wysong briefed the Council on an executive order identifying a significant mountain pine beetle outbreak along the Front Range. He expressed concerns regarding the current lack of state funding for mitigation efforts. (01:07:20)
Proposed Prohibition of Graywater Systems: Public Works Director Thomas Tharnish introduced Ordinance 03-2026, which would prohibit the installation of graywater treatment works. The move is intended to protect the town’s water return flows and avoid complex backflow prevention requirements. (01:15:51)
Expansion of Graywater Ordinance Scope: During the ordinance discussion, the Council debated whether the prohibition should apply only to the town’s water service area or town-wide. They ultimately directed staff to modify the language to cover all town boundaries. (01:21:04)
Continuation of Graywater Public Hearing: Due to the requested language changes, the Council voted unanimously to continue the public hearing for the graywater ordinance until the March 16 meeting. (01:29:34)
Approval of RESPEC Master Service Agreement: The Council passed Resolution 14-2026, a $532,899 agreement with RESPEC Company LLC to provide construction services and observation for the Beacon Lite Road pipeline and the Monument Hill water tank projects. (01:30:52)
Infrastructure Update on Monument Hill Tank: Staff confirmed that the existing water tank on Monument Hill is deteriorating and under state scrutiny, emphasizing the urgency of completing the new tank project within the next 9 to 12 months. (01:38:51)
Palmer Lake Board and Legal Updates: During public comment, Trustee Jüka from Palmer Lake updated the Council on their successful appointment of new board members and their ongoing search for a new town attorney and police staff. (01:43:13)
Finalization of Referral Letter to El Paso County: Following an executive session, the Council directed the planning director and town attorneys to finalize and submit a referral letter to El Paso County opposing the Buc-ee’s-related administrative boundary line adjustment and grading permit application. (01:52:49)
Over 23,000 copies of our Mar. 7th issue were mailed today (Thu., Mar. 5th).
All the articles, letters, columns, snapshots, notices, and community calendar events have been posted at www.ocn.me.
Audio files have been posted for all the articles and the audio highlights and audio articles podcasts have been broadcast to Spotify, Apple Podcasts, and Pandora and posted on our YouTube channel.
Readers should assume that event information published in this newsletter is subject to change and information should be confirmed a day or two before the event by calling the information number or checking the organization’s website. See page < 22 > and page < 23 > or check wp.ocn.me/events for event locations and other details of these and many other local events.
OCN mailing days, Thu., Apr. 2, approx. 7-8:30 am. If you can help, even for an hour or two, getting the papers ready to mail, contact AllenAlchian@ocn.me or (719) 488-3455.
With our new on-line calendar, you can easily search for your favorite events, view upcoming events in a variety of formats (daily, weekly, monthly, etc.) and add events of interest to the calendar on your mobile device or computer.
Want your event listed in our on-line and print calendar?
Our Community Calendar carries listings 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. Complimentary calendar listings are included, when requested, for events advertised in the current issue. Click the button below to request listing of your events.
Keep up with fast-moving developments in the Tri-Lakes area with the OCN app!
The OCN app alerts you to upcoming events you don’t want to miss, lists the latest articles, podcasts, photo collections, comments, etc. It updates automatically to keep you informed.
In the screenshot below, the app is reporting 10 new upcoming events including a car show, farmers’ market, D38 school board meeting, and Monument Town Council meeting.
Just click the button below for a description of the latest version of the OCN app and detailed instructions on installing it on your smartphone, tablet, laptop, Chromebook, or desktop computer.
This email is an edition of the Our Community Newsletter. We also offer separate monthly email messages for those interested in information about OCN advertising. If you wish to also receive those email messages, please let me know or click on “manage your subscription” at the bottom of every message I sent. That will take you to a web page where you can update your information and preferences.
If you do not wish to receive future email messages of this type, please let me know at johnheiser@ocn.me and I will take care of it immediately.
On March 5, Palmer Ridge High School (PRHS) culminated a week of activities that raised $30,000 for Make-A-Wish Colorado by celebrating eight-year-old student Brooks (pictured above), whose wish is to go to Disney World. Brooks has a congenital heart disease. She got a standing ovation from the crowd in the gym and got to throw a pie in the face of English teacher Matt Frost. The celebration wrapped up with teacher, Daniel Russel getting his head shaved, something he agreed to do if donations hit the $30,000 mark. The event began on a somber note, as Elijah Arnholt’s mother addressed the crowd and delivered a tribute to her son who was a PRHS student. He passed away a year ago in March at the age of 18 after a courageous battle with Duchenne Muscular Dystrophy. Photo courtesy of D-38On March 5, Palmer Ridge High School (PRHS) culminated a week of activities that raised $30,000 for Make-A-Wish Colorado by celebrating eight-year-old student Brooks (pictured above), whose wish is to go to Disney World. Brooks has a congenital heart disease. She got a standing ovation from the crowd in the gym and got to throw a pie in the face of English teacher Matt Frost. The celebration wrapped up with teacher, Daniel Russel getting his head shaved, something he agreed to do if donations hit the $30,000 mark. The event began on a somber note, as Elijah Arnholt’s mother addressed the crowd and delivered a tribute to her son who was a PRHS student. He passed away a year ago in March at the age of 18 after a courageous battle with Duchenne Muscular Dystrophy. Photo courtesy of D-38.On March 5, Palmer Ridge High School (PRHS) culminated a week of activities that raised $30,000 for Make-A-Wish Colorado by celebrating eight-year-old student Brooks (in the center above), whose wish is to go to Disney World. Brooks has a congenital heart disease. She got a standing ovation from the crowd in the gym and got to throw a pie in the face of English teacher Matt Frost. The celebration wrapped up with teacher, Daniel Russel getting his head shaved, something he agreed to do if donations hit the $30,000 mark. The event began on a somber note, as Elijah Arnholt’s mother addressed the crowd and delivered a tribute to her son who was a PRHS student. He passed away a year ago in March at the age of 18 after a courageous battle with Duchenne Muscular Dystrophy. Photo courtesy of D-38.On March 5, Palmer Ridge High School (PRHS) culminated a week of activities that raised $30,000 for Make-A-Wish Colorado by celebrating eight-year-old student Brooks (right), whose wish is to go to Disney World. Brooks has a congenital heart disease. She got a standing ovation from the crowd in the gym and got to throw a pie in the face of English teacher Matt Frost (left). The celebration wrapped up with teacher, Daniel Russel getting his head shaved, something he agreed to do if donations hit the $30,000 mark. The event began on a somber note, as Elijah Arnholt’s mother addressed the crowd and delivered a tribute to her son who was a PRHS student. He passed away a year ago in March at the age of 18 after a courageous battle with Duchenne Muscular Dystrophy. Photo courtesy of D-38.On March 5, Palmer Ridge High School (PRHS) culminated a week of activities that raised $30,000 for Make-A-Wish Colorado by celebrating eight-year-old student Brooks, whose wish is to go to Disney World. Brooks has a congenital heart disease. She got a standing ovation from the crowd in the gym and got to throw a pie in the face of English teacher Matt Frost. The celebration wrapped up with teacher, Daniel Russel (pictured above) getting his head shaved, something he agreed to do if donations hit the $30,000 mark. The event began on a somber note, as Elijah Arnholt’s mother addressed the crowd and delivered a tribute to her son who was a PRHS student. He passed away a year ago in March at the age of 18 after a courageous battle with Duchenne Muscular Dystrophy. Photo courtesy of D-38.
Over 23,000 copies of our Mar. 7th issue were mailed today (Thu., Mar. 5th).
All the articles, letters, columns, snapshots, notices, and community calendar events have been posted at www.ocn.me.
Audio files have been posted for all the articles and the audio highlights and audio articles podcasts have been broadcast to Spotify, Apple Podcasts, and Pandora and posted on our YouTube channel.
March issue of OCN and D38 Chess Tournament coming this weekend
Readers should assume that event information published in this newsletter is subject to change and information should be confirmed a day or two before the event by calling the information number or checking the organization’s website. See page < 22 > and page < 23 > or check wp.ocn.me/events for event locations and other details of these and many other local events.
OCN mailing days, Thu., Apr. 2, approx. 7-8:30 am. If you can help, even for an hour or two, getting the papers ready to mail, contact AllenAlchian@ocn.me or (719) 488-3455.
With our new on-line calendar, you can easily search for your favorite events, view upcoming events in a variety of formats (daily, weekly, monthly, etc.) and add events of interest to the calendar on your mobile device or computer.
Want your event listed in our on-line and print calendar?
Our Community Calendar carries listings 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. Complimentary calendar listings are included, when requested, for events advertised in the current issue. Click the button below to request listing of your events.
Keep up with fast-moving developments in the Tri-Lakes area with the OCN app!
The OCN app alerts you to upcoming events you don’t want to miss, lists the latest articles, podcasts, photo collections, comments, etc. It updates automatically to keep you informed.
In the screenshot below, the app is reporting 10 new upcoming events including a car show, farmers’ market, D38 school board meeting, and Monument Town Council meeting.
Just click the button below for a description of the latest version of the OCN app and detailed instructions on installing it on your smartphone, tablet, laptop, Chromebook, or desktop computer.
This email is an edition of the Our Community Newsletter. We also offer separate monthly email messages for those interested in information about OCN advertising. If you wish to also receive those email messages, please let me know or click on “manage your subscription” at the bottom of every message I sent. That will take you to a web page where you can update your information and preferences.
If you do not wish to receive future email messages of this type, please let me know at johnheiser@ocn.me and I will take care of it immediately.
Over 23,000 copies of our Mar. 7th issue will be mailed Thu., Mar. 5th.
Over the next two days, all the articles, letters, columns, snapshots, notices, and community calendar events will be posted at www.ocn.me.
On Friday, the audio files will be posted for all the articles and the audio highlights and audio articles podcasts will be broadcast to Spotify, Apple Podcasts, and Pandora and posted on our YouTube channel.
March issue of OCN and Chess Tournament coming this week.
Readers should assume that event information published in this newsletter is subject to change and information should be confirmed a day or two before the event by calling the information number or checking the organization’s website. See page < 22 > and page < 23 > or check wp.ocn.me/events for event locations and other details of these and many other local events.
OCN mailing days, Fri., Mar. 5 approx. 7-8:30 am. If you can help, even for an hour or two, getting the papers ready to mail, contact AllenAlchian@ocn.me or (719) 488-3455.
OCN mailing days, Thu., Apr. 2, approx. 7-8:30 am. If you can help, even for an hour or two, getting the papers ready to mail, contact AllenAlchian@ocn.me or (719) 488-3455.
With our new on-line calendar, you can easily search for your favorite events, view upcoming events in a variety of formats (daily, weekly, monthly, etc.) and add events of interest to the calendar on your mobile device or computer.
Want your event listed in our on-line and print calendar?
Our Community Calendar carries listings 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. Complimentary calendar listings are included, when requested, for events advertised in the current issue. Click the button below to request listing of your events.
Keep up with fast-moving developments in the Tri-Lakes area with the OCN app!
The OCN app alerts you to upcoming events you don’t want to miss, lists the latest articles, podcasts, photo collections, comments, etc. It updates automatically to keep you informed.
In the screenshot below, the app is reporting 10 new upcoming events including a car show, farmers’ market, D38 school board meeting, and Monument Town Council meeting.
Just click the button below for a description of the latest version of the OCN app and detailed instructions on installing it on your smartphone, tablet, laptop, Chromebook, or desktop computer.
This email is an edition of the Our Community Newsletter. We also offer separate monthly email messages for those interested in information about OCN advertising. If you wish to also receive those email messages, please let me know or click on “manage your subscription” at the bottom of every message I sent. That will take you to a web page where you can update your information and preferences.
If you do not wish to receive future email messages of this type, please let me know at johnheiser@ocn.me and I will take care of it immediately.
Feb. 12: Palmer Lake Board of Trustees appoints Mike Beeson and John Marble to fill vacancies
Below are AI-generated highlights of the Palmer Lake Board of Trustees workshop and meeting Feb. 12. The timestamps in parentheses indicate the approximate points in the video of the meeting where the topics were discussed. Look for our March 7th issue for detailed coverage of this meeting.
Trustee Candidate Interviews: The workshop was dedicated to interviewing four candidates—Mike Beeson, Denaje Ferguson, John Hartzog, and John Marble—to fill two vacant seats on the Board of Trustees. Each candidate answered the same eleven questions regarding their background, vision for the town, spending priorities, and governance philosophy. (00:00:10)
Appointment of New Trustees: Following the interviews, the board appointed Mike Beeson and John Marble to fill the vacancies. Both new members were sworn in during the meeting and took their seats for the remainder of the session. (01:44:54)
Buc-ee’s Annexation Withdrawal: The Board addressed the formal withdrawal of the annexation application for Monument Ridge West (Buc-ee’s). While the application is withdrawn, the board voted to continue the item until they have legal counsel to finalize the necessary resolutions for “decoupling” and ensured no new work or expenses would be initiated for the project. (02:09:03)
Town Attorney Search Update: Staff reported that three firms responded to the Request for Proposals (RFP) for a new town attorney. The board approved a motion to extend the RFP deadline to February 20th and officially cancel the search for an “interim” attorney, as several firms indicated the dual-track search was hindering the recruitment process. (02:20:15)
Professional Services and Community Matters Institute Controversy: During public comment, resident Martha Brodzik raised concerns about professional service contracts, alleging that the town paid Community Matters Institute without existing contracts and accidentally paid one invoice twice. Trustee Mosley requested a formal hearing on the matter for the next meeting to address what he described as “deceitful” actions by the contractor. (03:00:42)
Reports of Resident Harassment: Resident Gene Celestie provided a statement regarding a “direct threat” from a neighbor and an aggressive encounter involving his wife and a former trustee’s spouse. He stated he intends to pursue charges and requested the incident be formally documented as part of an ongoing pattern of intimidation. (03:18:01)
Fire Department Preparedness Events: Fire Chief Vincent announced an upcoming “Wildland Fire Preparedness Day” and a Fire Department Open House scheduled for May 2nd. The event will include training on “firewise” practices and demonstrations of personal protective equipment and tools used in structure and wildland fire response. (01:30:10)
Police Department Vehicle Update: Interim Town Administrator and Police Chief Glenn Smith reported the purchase of a used “electric blue” staff vehicle from the State Patrol. The car will be used for supervisor assignments, while an older vehicle with 200,000 miles will be sold to save on maintenance costs. (01:27:13)
Water Main Breaks and Infrastructure: Public Works reported responding to multiple water main breaks over the last two weeks at locations including Hermosa, Starview, and South Park. These repairs contributed to significant expenditures on road base and “squeegee” materials needed to fill excavation trenches. (01:29:11)
Audit and Financial Reporting: Town Clerk Erica Romero updated the board that the FY24 audit is nearing completion, with auditors currently finishing the review of capital assets. Additionally, Trustee Mosley requested a dedicated water workshop to address compliance with Tabor requirements and better separation of water enterprise funds from the general fund. (01:31:34)
Palmer Lake Board of Trustees meeting Feb. 26: Community Matters to terminate planning services Mar. 13
The February 26, 2026, Palmer Lake Board of Trustees meeting was marked by updates on legal proceedings, significant staff changes, and heated debates regarding town financial management. Below are 12 AI-generated highlights from the meeting. The timestamps in parentheses indicate the approximate points in the audio recording of the meeting where the topics were discussed. Look for our March 7th issue for detailed coverage of this meeting.
Mayor Stern’s Legal Update: Mayor Stern reported that a court recently dismissed a motion for a temporary restraining order and a preliminary injunction related to a lawsuit challenging his appointment to the Board. (00:04:22)
Clarification of Questioned Records: Town Clerk Erica Romero provided a detailed follow-up on financial concerns from the previous meeting, explaining that a sequence of voided checks was due to a printing error and confirming that a payment to Buc-ee’s was a standard refund for overpayment. (00:08:04)
2024 Town Audit Progress: The Board was informed that the 2024 audit is nearing completion and is expected to be available for review in draft form by March 6, 2026, with the auditor attending the following meeting in person. (00:10:12)
Resumption of Town Administrator Search: Following discussion on community stability, the Board reached a consensus to re-engage with Strategic Government Resources (SGR) to restart the recruitment process for a permanent Town Administrator. (00:58:01)
Parks and Trails Commission Appointment: The Board unanimously approved the appointment of Denaje Ferguson to fill a vacancy on the Parks and Trails Commission for a term ending in 2028. (01:07:31)
Town Attorney RFP Selection Process: Staff confirmed that three law firms submitted complete proposals for the Town Attorney position; each firm is scheduled to give a formal presentation during a workshop on March 12, 2026. (01:09:50)
Monument Ridge West (Buc-ee’s) Unwinding Update: Special counsel provided an update on the ongoing legal process of systematically “undoing” the Monument Ridge West annexation applications and agreements following the developer’s withdrawal. (01:28:40)
Resignation of Community Matters Institute (CMI): CMI submitted a formal notice of termination, stating they will cease all planning services on March 13, 2026, citing a “lack of trust among certain Town Officials”. (01:34:57)
Allegations of Contract Overruns: Trustee Roger Moseley alleged that the town has exceeded “not to exceed” contract limits for several professional service vendors by approximately $35,000. (01:59:04)
Uncollected Developer Fee Concerns: Trustee Moseley further claimed that the town has failed to collect roughly $63,000 in reimbursable fees from developers for work already performed by town contractors. (02:09:04)
Town Clerk Defense of Staff Integrity: Erica Romero defended the town’s financial and record-keeping processes, urging the Board to trust the established staff and systems rather than relying on interpretations of public records without professional context. (02:18:11)
Interim Administrator’s Challenge to the Board: Responding to criticisms of his performance, Interim Administrator and Police Chief Glen Smith requested that any trustees wishing to remove him from his position provide formal “cause” in writing by the next Board meeting. (02:45:19)
Monument Town Council actions suggest some possible directions for the Buc-ee’s project.
At their Feb. 2 meeting, the Monument Town Council approved a resolution initiating annexation of the town-owned water tank site on Beacon Lite Road. The property proposed for annexation is adjacent to the southern edge of the parcel proposed for combination with the Buc-ee’s travel center parcel. If the town completes the annexation of the water tank site and El Paso County approves the combination of the parcels, it raises the possibility that the Buc-ee’s developer might apply to the Town of Monument for annexation. Failing that, the Buc-ee’s developer might seek to purchase water from the Town of Monument.
At the Feb. 17 meeting, the Monument Town Council approved an ordinance which prohibits the town from providing water service to properties located north of the Palmer Divide. Although some people may see this as blocking Buc-ee’s from obtaining town water, since the high point of the Palmer Divide is Bald Mountain in southern Douglas County, depending on the exact path of the Palmer Divide, it is possible that the Buc-ee’s site is south of the Palmer Divide and therefore not prevented by the ordinance from purchasing water from the town.
The timing of these actions by the Monument Town Council is interesting given residents’ intense interest in the Buc-ee’s developer’s plans.
AI-Generated Highlights of the Monument Town Council meeting Feb. 2, 2026
The timestamps indicate approximately where the topic was addressed in the video of the meeting.
Pikes Peak Regional Building Department (PPRBD) 2025 Report: Greg from the PPRBD reported that while single-family home construction in Monument dropped 27% in 2025, there was a major boom in commercial construction, with new apartment completions more than tripling across the region. The department also noted that they continue to perform manual roof inspections rather than using drones to ensure they can physically check for proper shingle installation. (00:02:11)
Annexation of Beacon Light Road Water Tank Site: The Council approved Resolution 08-2026, initiating annexation proceedings for the town-owned water tank site and a portion of Beacon Light Road. This “flagpole annexation” is similar to the process used for Old Denver Road, and a public hearing has been set for March 16, 2026. (00:22:38)
Proposed Restriction on Water Flow North of the Palmer Divide: Council 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 from the Arkansas River Basin. (00:30:38)
Resident Complaint Regarding Above-Ground Electric Fence: During public comment, a resident reported that a neighbor had installed two layers of above-ground electric fencing on his property line. Town staff acknowledged the complaint and noted that a new code enforcement officer would be starting within the week to investigate the matter. (00:39:56)
Regional Training for Elected Officials: Council discussed an initiative to host a regional mixer and educational sessions for elected officials and clerks from El Paso, Teller, and Fremont counties. The first event, a mixer in Colorado Springs, is being targeted for late March to foster better inter-municipal cooperation. (00:44:03)
Q4 Financial Performance: The quarterly budget report revealed that the town ended 2025 with total expenditures at 83% of the budgeted amount. While sales tax remains the town’s primary revenue source, planning fees were lower than anticipated, leading the town to seek a third-party evaluation of its fee schedule. (00:48:37)
2025 Investment Returns: The town reported earning nearly $1.5 million in total investment income for 2025. The Council plans to review and update the town’s investment policy in the coming months to ensure it remains current with market conditions. (00:54:43)
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 failure to remit collected taxes. One business has reportedly failed to file since 2021, and the town is prepared to take further legal action or close businesses that remain non-compliant. (01:00:41)
Condolences for Mayor Teresa Howard: The Council formally expressed its condolences following the unexpected passing of Teresa Howard, the Mayor of Kiowa, Colorado. (01:06:06)
Executive Session on Elite Cranes: The Council voted 7-0 to enter into an executive session to receive legal advice from the town attorney regarding a zoning enforcement matter involving Elite Cranes. (01:07:41)
AI-Generated Highlights of the Monument Town Council meeting Feb. 17, 2026
The timestamps indicate approximately where the topic was addressed in the video of the meeting.
New Wildlife Resiliency and Fire Codes: The Council reviewed a presentation regarding the adoption of the 2021 International Fire Code and the Colorado Wildlife Resiliency Code, which aims to align local fire standards with regional building codes to address extreme wildfire losses. The new wildlife code includes requirements for non-combustible fencing within 8 feet of a home and the removal of vegetation within a 5-foot “defensible space” for new constructions. (00:01:51)
Police Impact Fee Recommendation: An impact fee study conducted by EPS recommended implementing a new police impact fee of approximately $800 per single-family home. This fee is designed to maintain current service levels by funding capital assets such as patrol vehicles and gear as the town grows. (00:29:41)
Restriction of Water Service North of Palmer Divide: The Council approved Ordinance 02-2026, which prohibits the town from providing water service to properties located north of the Palmer Divide. This is a proactive measure to avoid expensive 1041 permitting processes and potential conflicts with water decrees from neighboring counties. (01:02:34)
Jackson Creek Parkway (JCP) Widening Strategy: Because the total project cost of $17 million exceeds current funding, the town will proceed with a value-engineered “first part” focused exclusively on the northbound lanes and a swale median. This $7.5 million portion utilizes already-secured grants that must be spent promptly to avoid redistribution by state agencies. (01:07:24)
Federal BUILD Grant Application: The Council authorized Resolution 09-2026 to apply for a federal BUILD grant to fund the remaining southbound lanes, estimated at $5 million. To increase the town’s chances of winning the grant, the Council committed to a 30% local matching fund. (01:13:16)
Master Transportation Plan Grant: The Council approved applying for a $200,000 DOLA grant (Resolution 13-2026) to develop a Master Transportation Plan. This plan is a critical prerequisite for the town to remain eligible for future state transportation grants and will provide detailed data to help prioritize road improvements. (01:31:09)
Significant Increase in Water Rights Fees: Under Resolution 11-2026, the Council raised the “fee in lieu of water rights” for developers from 10,000 to 30,000 per acre-foot”. This update brings the town’s fees in line with current market values for renewable water portfolio assets. (01:39:37)
Formal Policy for Accepting Groundwater: The Council adopted a formal procedure (Resolution 12-2026) for evaluating and accepting groundwater from new developments, specifically addressing “not non-tributary” water. This policy protects the town’s water portfolio by requiring developers to pay a fee of roughly $40,000 per acre-foot for water that requires future court adjudication. (01:51:40)
Controversial Chamber of Commerce Lease: In a 5-2 vote, the Council approved a short-term, one-year lease with the Tri-Lakes Chamber of Commerce for $1 per year. While supporters viewed it as a transition year to allow the Chamber to prepare for future rent, dissenting members expressed a desire to sell the property or generate revenue from the town asset. (02:01:34)
Maintenance Liability Concerns: During the Chamber of Commerce lease discussion, Council members questioned why the town remains responsible for major building repairs exceeding $5,000. Staff clarified that the lease includes a provision allowing the town to terminate the agreement rather than paying for such significant improvements. (02:05:16)
Objections to Buc-ee’s/County Referral: Following an executive session, the Council directed staff to submit formal comments to El Paso County opposing an administrative lot line adjustment for the property associated with the proposed Buc-ee’s project. The Council argued that such changes should not be administrative and instead require public hearings and greater scrutiny. (02:28:33)
Monument Town Council meeting, Mar. 2. March issue of OCN and Chess Tournament coming next week.
Readers should assume that event information published in this newsletter is subject to change and information should be confirmed a day or two before the event by calling the information number or checking the organization’s website. See page < 22 > and page < 23 > or check wp.ocn.me/events for event locations and other details of these and many other local events.
OCN mailing days, Thu., Mar. 5, approx. 7-8:30 am. If you can help, even for an hour or two, getting the papers ready to mail, contact AllenAlchian@ocn.me or (719) 488-3455.
With our new on-line calendar, you can easily search for your favorite events, view upcoming events in a variety of formats (daily, weekly, monthly, etc.) and add events of interest to the calendar on your mobile device or computer.
Over 23,000 copies of our Feb. 7th issue were mailed Thu., Feb. 5th.
All the articles, letters, columns, snapshots, notices, and community calendar events have been posted at www.ocn.me. The audio files have be posted for all the articles and the audio highlights and audio articles podcasts have been broadcast to Spotify, Apple Podcasts, and Pandora and posted on our YouTube channel.
Want your event listed in our on-line and print calendar?
Our Community Calendar carries listings 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. Complimentary calendar listings are included, when requested, for events advertised in the current issue. Click the button below to request listing of your events.
Keep up with fast-moving developments in the Tri-Lakes area with the OCN app!
The OCN app alerts you to upcoming events you don’t want to miss, lists the latest articles, podcasts, photo collections, comments, etc. It updates automatically to keep you informed.
In the screenshot below, the app is reporting 10 new upcoming events including a car show, farmers’ market, D38 school board meeting, and Monument Town Council meeting.
Just click the button below for a description of the latest version of the OCN app and detailed instructions on installing it on your smartphone, tablet, laptop, Chromebook, or desktop computer.
This email is an edition of the Our Community Newsletter. We also offer separate monthly email messages for those interested in information about OCN advertising. If you wish to also receive those email messages, please let me know or click on “manage your subscription” at the bottom of every message I sent. That will take you to a web page where you can update your information and preferences.
If you do not wish to receive future email messages of this type, please let me know at johnheiser@ocn.me and I will take care of it immediately.
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.
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.
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.
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
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 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.
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.
Monument Town Council actions suggest some possible directions for the Buc-ee’s project.
At their Feb. 2 meeting, the Monument Town Council approved a resolution initiating annexation of the town-owned water tank site on Beacon Lite Road. The property proposed for annexation is adjacent to the southern edge of the parcel proposed for combination with the Buc-ee’s travel center parcel. If the town completes the annexation of the water tank site and El Paso County approves the combination of the parcels, it raises the possibility that the Buc-ee’s developer might apply to the Town of Monument for annexation. Failing that, the Buc-ee’s developer might seek to purchase water from the Town of Monument.
At the Feb. 17 meeting, the Monument Town Council approved an ordinance which prohibits the town from providing water service to properties located north of the Palmer Divide. Although some people may see this as blocking Buc-ee’s from obtaining town water, since the high point of the Palmer Divide is Bald Mountain in southern Douglas County, depending on the exact path of the Palmer Divide, it is possible that the Buc-ee’s site is south of the Palmer Divide and therefore not prevented by the ordinance from purchasing water from the town.
The timing of these actions by the Monument Town Council is interesting given residents’ intense interest in the Buc-ee’s developer’s plans.
AI-Generated Highlights of the Monument Town Council meeting Feb. 2, 2026
The timestamps indicate approximately where the topic was addressed in the video of the meeting.
Pikes Peak Regional Building Department (PPRBD) 2025 Report: Greg from the PPRBD reported that while single-family home construction in Monument dropped 27% in 2025, there was a major boom in commercial construction, with new apartment completions more than tripling across the region. The department also noted that they continue to perform manual roof inspections rather than using drones to ensure they can physically check for proper shingle installation. (00:02:11)
Annexation of Beacon Light Road Water Tank Site: The Council approved Resolution 08-2026, initiating annexation proceedings for the town-owned water tank site and a portion of Beacon Light Road. This “flagpole annexation” is similar to the process used for Old Denver Road, and a public hearing has been set for March 16, 2026. (00:22:38)
Proposed Restriction on Water Flow North of the Palmer Divide: Council 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 from the Arkansas River Basin. (00:30:38)
Resident Complaint Regarding Above-Ground Electric Fence: During public comment, a resident reported that a neighbor had installed two layers of above-ground electric fencing on his property line. Town staff acknowledged the complaint and noted that a new code enforcement officer would be starting within the week to investigate the matter. (00:39:56)
Regional Training for Elected Officials: Council discussed an initiative to host a regional mixer and educational sessions for elected officials and clerks from El Paso, Teller, and Fremont counties. The first event, a mixer in Colorado Springs, is being targeted for late March to foster better inter-municipal cooperation. (00:44:03)
Q4 Financial Performance: The quarterly budget report revealed that the town ended 2025 with total expenditures at 83% of the budgeted amount. While sales tax remains the town’s primary revenue source, planning fees were lower than anticipated, leading the town to seek a third-party evaluation of its fee schedule. (00:48:37)
2025 Investment Returns: The town reported earning nearly $1.5 million in total investment income for 2025. The Council plans to review and update the town’s investment policy in the coming months to ensure it remains current with market conditions. (00:54:43)
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 failure to remit collected taxes. One business has reportedly failed to file since 2021, and the town is prepared to take further legal action or close businesses that remain non-compliant. (01:00:41)
Condolences for Mayor Teresa Howard: The Council formally expressed its condolences following the unexpected passing of Teresa Howard, the Mayor of Kiowa, Colorado. (01:06:06)
Executive Session on Elite Cranes: The Council voted 7-0 to enter into an executive session to receive legal advice from the town attorney regarding a zoning enforcement matter involving Elite Cranes. (01:07:41)
AI-Generated Highlights of the Monument Town Council meeting Feb. 17, 2026
The timestamps indicate approximately where the topic was addressed in the video of the meeting.
New Wildlife Resiliency and Fire Codes: The Council reviewed a presentation regarding the adoption of the 2021 International Fire Code and the Colorado Wildlife Resiliency Code, which aims to align local fire standards with regional building codes to address extreme wildfire losses. The new wildlife code includes requirements for non-combustible fencing within 8 feet of a home and the removal of vegetation within a 5-foot “defensible space” for new constructions. (00:01:51)
Police Impact Fee Recommendation: An impact fee study conducted by EPS recommended implementing a new police impact fee of approximately $800 per single-family home. This fee is designed to maintain current service levels by funding capital assets such as patrol vehicles and gear as the town grows. (00:29:41)
Restriction of Water Service North of Palmer Divide: The Council approved Ordinance 02-2026, which prohibits the town from providing water service to properties located north of the Palmer Divide. This is a proactive measure to avoid expensive 1041 permitting processes and potential conflicts with water decrees from neighboring counties. (01:02:34)
Jackson Creek Parkway (JCP) Widening Strategy: Because the total project cost of $17 million exceeds current funding, the town will proceed with a value-engineered “first part” focused exclusively on the northbound lanes and a swale median. This $7.5 million portion utilizes already-secured grants that must be spent promptly to avoid redistribution by state agencies. (01:07:24)
Federal BUILD Grant Application: The Council authorized Resolution 09-2026 to apply for a federal BUILD grant to fund the remaining southbound lanes, estimated at $5 million. To increase the town’s chances of winning the grant, the Council committed to a 30% local matching fund. (01:13:16)
Master Transportation Plan Grant: The Council approved applying for a $200,000 DOLA grant (Resolution 13-2026) to develop a Master Transportation Plan. This plan is a critical prerequisite for the town to remain eligible for future state transportation grants and will provide detailed data to help prioritize road improvements. (01:31:09)
Significant Increase in Water Rights Fees: Under Resolution 11-2026, the Council raised the “fee in lieu of water rights” for developers from 10,000 to 30,000 per acre-foot”. This update brings the town’s fees in line with current market values for renewable water portfolio assets. (01:39:37)
Formal Policy for Accepting Groundwater: The Council adopted a formal procedure (Resolution 12-2026) for evaluating and accepting groundwater from new developments, specifically addressing “not non-tributary” water. This policy protects the town’s water portfolio by requiring developers to pay a fee of roughly $40,000 per acre-foot for water that requires future court adjudication. (01:51:40)
Controversial Chamber of Commerce Lease: In a 5-2 vote, the Council approved a short-term, one-year lease with the Tri-Lakes Chamber of Commerce for $1 per year. While supporters viewed it as a transition year to allow the Chamber to prepare for future rent, dissenting members expressed a desire to sell the property or generate revenue from the town asset. (02:01:34)
Maintenance Liability Concerns: During the Chamber of Commerce lease discussion, Council members questioned why the town remains responsible for major building repairs exceeding $5,000. Staff clarified that the lease includes a provision allowing the town to terminate the agreement rather than paying for such significant improvements. (02:05:16)
Objections to Buc-ee’s/County Referral: Following an executive session, the Council directed staff to submit formal comments to El Paso County opposing an administrative lot line adjustment for the property associated with the proposed Buc-ee’s project. The Council argued that such changes should not be administrative and instead require public hearings and greater scrutiny. (02:28:33)
Stars of Tomorrow Auditions & WMMI Geology Day tomorrow!
Readers should assume that event information published in this newsletter is subject to change and information should be confirmed a day or two before the event by calling the information number or checking the organization’s website. See page < 22 > and page < 23 > or check wp.ocn.me/events for event locations and other details of these and many other local events.
OCN mailing days, Thu., Mar. 5, approx. 7-8:30 am. If you can help, even for an hour or two, getting the papers ready to mail, contact AllenAlchian@ocn.me or (719) 488-3455.
With our new on-line calendar, you can easily search for your favorite events, view upcoming events in a variety of formats (daily, weekly, monthly, etc.) and add events of interest to the calendar on your mobile device or computer.
Buc-ee’s seeks to expand parcel by 10 acres to the south
Vertex Consulting Services, representing Buc-ee’s, has applied to El Paso County to append 10 acres to the southern part of the parcel designated for the proposed Buc-ee’s travel center.
A primary reason Buc-ee’s sought annexation to the Town of Palmer Lake was to obtain a source for potable water for the site. The Monument Sanitation District has already committed to provide sewer service.
The documents note, “The boundary line adjustment will not result in a change in the water supply for either lot; Neither parcel has an existing well. There are no adjudicated water rights with either parcel. The Boundary Line Adjustment does not include the severing water rights and the land will be transferred by deed with all water rights underlaying the property intact.”
This action makes it clear that Buc-ee’s has not abandoned the proposed project at that site but is instead pursuing an alternative route to obtain access to a water supply for the property.
Click the buttons below to read the details of the application and 149 pages of public comments.
Over 23,000 copies of our Feb. 7th issue were mailed yesterday. They should be in most mailboxes by now.
All the articles, letters, columns, snapshots, notices, and community calendar events have been posted at www.ocn.me. The audio files have be posted for all the articles and the audio highlights and audio articles podcasts have been broadcast to Spotify, Apple Podcasts, and Pandora and posted on our YouTube channel.
Want your event listed in our on-line and print calendar?
Our Community Calendar carries listings 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. Complimentary calendar listings are included, when requested, for events advertised in the current issue. Click the button below to request listing of your events.
Keep up with fast-moving developments in the Tri-Lakes area with the OCN app!
The OCN app alerts you to upcoming events you don’t want to miss, lists the latest articles, podcasts, photo collections, comments, etc. It updates automatically to keep you informed.
In the screenshot below, the app is reporting 10 new upcoming events including a car show, farmers’ market, D38 school board meeting, and Monument Town Council meeting.
Just click the button below for a description of the latest version of the OCN app and detailed instructions on installing it on your smartphone, tablet, laptop, Chromebook, or desktop computer.
This email is an edition of the Our Community Newsletter. We also offer separate monthly email messages for those interested in information about OCN advertising. If you wish to also receive those email messages, please let me know or click on “manage your subscription” at the bottom of every message I sent. That will take you to a web page where you can update your information and preferences.
If you do not wish to receive future email messages of this type, please let me know at johnheiser@ocn.me and I will take care of it immediately.
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.
