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Monument Town Council, Jan. 2 and 16 – “It’s hard to do business here,” developers claim before moratorium approval

By Chris Jeub

The Monument Town Council (MTC) convened for its first meeting of the year on Jan. 2, addressing various topics including the ArtSites Program, new ordinances, a major Planned Unit Development (PUD) amendment, and property tax mill levy scenarios. The second meeting commenced on Jan. 16 with a contentious debate with developers over a proposed moratorium on new applications for development, a moratorium that passed unanimously.

ArtSites program presentation

Madeline VanDenHoek from the ArtSites Committee presented an update on the town’s ArtSites program. The program, managed by Parks and Trails Planner and Program Manager Cassie Olgren, currently boasts 25 sites with 14 rotating sculptures, six permanent sculptures, and five murals. VanDenHoek highlighted the program’s growth in 2023, with an increased budget of $19,760 for 2024. The town aims to expand the program further and is seeking additional committees to contribute to its development.

Residents can explore the ArtSites using the Otocast app. More information can be found on the town’s website at www.townofmonument.org/582/ArtSites.

Ordinance approval and Council District Advisory Commission

The council discussed and approved two ordinances during the meeting. Ordinance No. 25-2023 established the Council District Advisory Commission, while Ordinance No. 01-2024 adopted Chapter 2.60 of the Monument Municipal Code regarding standards of conduct. Mayor Pro Tem Steve King commended the level of detail in the latter ordinance, emphasizing its importance. Mayor Mitch LaKind thanked Councilmember Laura Kronick for spearheading the project. The ordinances passed unanimously, with LaKind expressing relief at fulfilling requirements from the Home Rule Charter.

Willow Springs Ranch PUD Amendment

A significant portion of the Jan. 2 meeting was dedicated to discussing Ordinance No. 03-2024, which approved a major PUD amendment for the Willow Springs Ranch Preliminary/Final PUD Site Plan. Blane Perkins, representing the applicant, explained that adjustments were made to eight lots to accommodate a Mountain View Electric Association (MVEA) easement. This led to a reduction in lot sizes below the R4 minimum of 5,000 square feet.

Councilmembers raised questions about the process, the nature of the error, and the potential for alternative solutions. During the discussion, Councilmember Jim Romanello characterized the issue as a simple mistake, while LaKind likened it to housekeeping. Councilmember Kenneth Kimple, however, inquired if there had been any consideration given to removing the houses in question. Despite the various considerations, the ordinance ultimately passed unanimously, with a consensus that the adjustment was deemed necessary for utilities and access easements.

Property tax mill levy resolution

Director of Finance Mona Hirjoi presented Resolution No. 75-2023, seeking authorization for the certification of the property tax mill levy to the El Paso County Assessor for the 2024 budget year. The council discussed various scenarios for the mill levy, with LaKind expressing a desire to lower it. Legal counsel cautioned against decreasing it too much, as subsequent increases might require voter approval. The council settled on a reduction to 5.0, with Romanello preferring 5.0 and Kimple suggesting 5.25. The resolution passed unanimously.

Zeal at Jackson Creek Final Plat discussion

The meeting concluded with a discussion of Resolution No. 04-2024, approving the final plat for Zeal at Jackson Creek. Concerns were raised about rights of way and setbacks, prompting a motion by Romanello to continue the discussion to February. Councilmembers emphasized the need to ensure proper road classification for Higby and maintain control over town-owned land.

LaKind urged thorough consideration of the road’s design, with Councilmember Steve King emphasizing compliance with town code. The resolution was tabled until February, with a unanimous vote to continue the discussion.

Moratorium divides Monument Town Council and developers

In a highly charged meeting on Dec. 16, 2023, tensions flared between the MTC and developers as they clashed over Ordinance No. 04-2024, proposing a temporary suspension of new applications under the Town of Monument Land Development Code. The ordinance, presented by MTC lawyer Bob Cole, sought a moratorium lasting until the July 15 meeting to allow the staff to restructure and hire a new planning director.

Town Manager Mike Foreman, advocating for the moratorium, underscored the increasing number of errors made in handling development cases. He emphasized the urgency of hiring a consultant to review and adjust procedures, hire a new director, and tackle the backlog of 25-30 cases that required immediate attention. LaKind expressed concern over the frequent turnover of planning directors and proposed an independent investigation to uncover the root causes.

The development community, particularly Classic Homes, expressed frustration over the moratorium. One representative criticized the town, stating, “You guys are rough on [developers].” The sentiment was that the town officials, acting as judge and jury, were playing politics and had personal agendas, making the process challenging. In response to LaKind’s suggestion that developers should not expect the town to come in blind, Classic Homes argued that written statements of opinion should not be formed before all the facts are presented.

The planning director for a Home Builders Association expressed concern over the negative message conveyed by imposing a moratorium on new developments, stating, “It’s hard to do business here.” This sentiment reflected a broader sentiment among developers who found the current environment in Monument less favorable for conducting business compared to other locations along the Front Range.

A notable exchange occurred between Foreman and Classic Homes CEO Doug Stimple. Stimple voiced strong concerns, arguing that the moratorium would jeopardize ongoing projects and lead to substantial financial losses. Foreman, in response, clarified the need for a strategic pause to rectify past mistakes and improve the town’s development processes. “I got jumped on,” Foreman claimed. Stimple responded, “If you had $20 million invested in the project, you’d like clarification, too.”

Despite attempts to address developers’ concerns, the council voted 7-0 in favor of the moratorium.

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The Monument Council usually meets at 6:30 p.m. on the first and third Mondays of each month at Monument Town Hall, 645 Beacon Lite Road. The next meetings are scheduled for Monday, Feb. 5 and 19. Call 719-884-8014 or see www.townofmonument.org for information. To see upcoming agendas and complete board packets or to download audio recordings of past meetings, see monumenttownco.minutesondemand.com and click on Town Council.

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

Other Monument Town Council articles

Monument Town Council, Dec. 6 – Town Council debates sales tax options, Loop Water Authority, Maverik gas station

By Chris Jeub

The Monument Town Council (MTC) meeting in December covered topics such as potential self-collection of sales tax, Loop Water Authority Project participation, and budget resolutions. The meeting underscored practical decision-making for the town’s financial and developmental future.

Sales tax management options unveiled

During the presentation on sales tax future state options by Sophia Hassman, the MTC delved into the complexities of transitioning to a self-collected sales tax model under Home Rule. Hassman highlighted the benefits of increased oversight, quicker turnaround, and enhanced tax compliance, with the potential for additional revenue streams. Councilmember Marco Fiorito sought clarification on certifications needed for in-house management, to which the response emphasized that a CPA is not necessary, and the first year would require two trained employees. The discussion also included cost considerations, with the hybrid option emerging as the most economical at $228,798, compared to $344,840 and $457,710 for an in-house or contractual option.

Councilmember Laura Kronick asked about the timeline for fund receipts in comparison to the state and was assured that under the proposed self-collect model, funds would be received within two days, as opposed to the state’s two-month holding period. Mayor Mitch LaKind and Councilmember Steve King inquired about the potential revenue increase with self-collection, to which the response ranged from 8% to 15%, with a break-even point slightly over 2%. Amid these discussions, King sought the opinion of Mona Hirjoi, director of Finance, who expressed torn sentiments, citing increased workload challenges and the difficulty of retaining experienced personnel. Despite the uncertainties, King suggested the option of reverting to self-collection if the chosen approach proved untenable, a sentiment echoed by Town Manager Mike Foreman, who mentioned instances of other municipalities returning to the previous system.

Water Authority participation affirmed, for now

A detailed exchange during the discussion of Resolution No. 59-2023 aimed to affirm the town’s participation in the El Paso County Regional Loop Water Authority project. LaKind expressed a desire to extend the resolution indefinitely, prompting Councilmember Kenneth Kimple to seek clarification on the meaning of “participation.” Foreman clarified that the town had invested $250,000 in the project to continue with the design phase. Kimple, however, raised concerns about the lack of definitive answers regarding the project’s return on investment and advocated for a decisive move, stating, “It’s time to cut the string to ensure our water.”

As the dialogue progressed, tensions surfaced as Fiorito also expressed frustration, stating, “We’ve kicked this can down the road, and we’re going to continue drilling wells, [waiting for] a renewable water system.… I want this council to make a decision now.” Kronick echoed a sense of frustration, feeling as though the council was being “held hostage.” The discussion revealed a diversity of perspectives, with Fiorito advocating for a move toward the Northern Delivery System (NDS) for a renewable water solution, emphasizing its viability within eight months. The eventual vote resulted in a 6-1 approval, with Kimple voting “no,” reflecting the complexity and divergence of opinions within the council.

Budget resolutions and tax surplus

All budget resolutions passed unanimously, reporting a 19% tax revenue surplus. Councilmembers acknowledged the hard work of the town staff. Hirjoi and Foreman highlighted the 16.46% reserve and an additional 3% reserve in TABOR, totaling a 19.46% reserve.

Maverik Monument Junction back to Planning Commission

The discussion surrounding Ordinance No. 24-2023, addressing the approval of a planned unit development for Maverik Monument Junction, revealed a debate among MTC members. The proposed 1.5-acre commercial convenience store, slated to open in fall 2024, faced scrutiny over traffic implications and concern for too many gas stations in Monument. Mayor LaKind and Councilmember Kimple raised concerns about traffic inaccuracies and the impact on the town’s character, with Kimple expressing worry about emergency evacuation.

The debate escalated when the mayor questioned the absence of the traffic report in the Planning Commission’s documentation, leading to a temporary pause in the proceedings. Councilmember Jim Romanello defended the project, emphasizing the necessity of providing options for residents east of town and disputing claims that Maverik would cause excessive traffic.

Tensions flared when traffic engineer responses were challenged, with King expressing concerns about traffic complications. The debate culminated in the decision to send the motion back to the Planning Commission for further review, scheduled for February. The final vote reflected a split decision, with Kimple voting against the motion, asserting that it did not meet the criteria in the first place.

Land acquisition approved for Town Hall expansion

In Ordinance No. 26-2023, the council authorized the purchase of the Brower property. Foreman explained that the land would be used to expand the Town Hall and its parking facilities. The ordinance passed unanimously.

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The Monument Council usually meets at 6:30 p.m. on the first and third Mondays of each month at Monument Town Hall, 645 Beacon Lite Road. With both of these Mondays being holidays (New Year’s Day and MLK Day), the next meetings are scheduled for Tuesday, Jan. 2, and Tuesday, Jan. 16. Call 719-884-8014 or see www.townofmonument.org for information. To see upcoming agendas and complete board packets or to download audio recordings of past meetings, see monumenttownco.minutesondemand.com and click on Town Council.

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

Other Monument Town Council (MTC) articles

Monument Town Council, Nov. 6, 2023 – Supplementary budget items and signs ordinance discussed

By Chris Jeub

One regular meeting of the Monument Town Council took place in November, and the regularly scheduled second meeting was cancelled for the Thanksgiving holiday. Issues covered in the four-hour meeting included symbolic gestures and police force promotions, local government initiatives and financial insights, budget talks, and the town’s temporary sign ordinance.

Israel support and police advancement

Mayor Mitch LaKind steered discussions toward a motion to change the town’s lighting to blue and white throughout the second week of November, a gesture aimed at showing solidarity with the State of Israel. The proposal was approved by the rest of the councilmembers and direction given to Town Manager Mike Foreman.

Police Chief Patrick Regan brought positive news with the announcement of promotions and swearing-in of key personnel, including Christine DeRienzo and Joe Barraza to sergeant positions, along with the welcome of Chris Sullivan to the Police Department.

Local initiatives and financial insights

Lu Ann Pyatt presented a comprehensive overview titled “Meet the Local Government Team.” Key points included the provision of a free State Geographic Information System (GIS) system for tax understanding, the team’s role in ensuring the functionality of the sales tax system processing $209 million per month, and the educational focus behind the 139 audits conducted last year. Residents were directed to explore tax-related information on tax.colorado.gov.

Max Mojab from Piper Sandler provided insights into the Investment Portfolio of the Town of Monument. The 2023 performance review showed promise, with an estimated revenue of about $250,000. Mojab expressed confidence in a projected 2024 revenue of $500,000 from investments.

Budget talks

Director of Finance Mona Hirjoi presented the 2024 budget and 2023 amended budget, sparking some fervent discussions. Notable points of attention included Foreman’s proposal for a new line item for a PR contractor, resulting in a $30,000 reallocation from the supplemental budget. Mayor LaKind expressed surprise at the revelation of a $300,000 allocation for upgrades to the 259 Beacon Lite Building, leading to discussions about the availability of grants and the necessity for more comprehensive data in the budget presentation.

Employee concerns took the spotlight during the budget discussions, with some expressing the need for part-time jobs to make ends meet. Councilmember Steve King delved into the intricacies of the merit pay system, revealing that over 90% of employees receive merit pay. However, concerns about the budget’s transparency emerged, with Mayor LaKind expressing dissatisfaction and Councilmember Ken Kimple echoing the call for better data. LaKind and the rest of the council began calling the preliminary budget a “wish list” to where voting would take place in December.

Temporary signs controversy

A significant portion of the meeting ignited with a debate over the town’s temporary signs ordinance. King read a letter accusing Amy Stephens, wife of former Councilmember Ron Stephens, of initiating a lawsuit and condemning the new council for enforcing an ordinance that forbids signs on the town’s rights of way. LaKind emphasized that the town ordinance prohibits signs in rights of way, underlining the need for a politically neutral approach. LaKind also emphasized that the problem is particularly with political signs.

Community members voiced opinions, with diverse perspectives on private property sign regulations and concerns about freedom of speech. Mayor LaKind proposed a community workshop and a more extensive discussion in 2024 to address the temporary signs issue comprehensively, recognizing the urgency and complexity of finding a balanced solution that respects both individual expression and town aesthetics.

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The Monument Council usually meets at 6:30 p.m. on the first and third Mondays of each month at Monument Town Hall, 645 Beacon Lite Road. The next meeting is scheduled for Monday, Dec. 4, and Monday, Dec. 18. Call 719-884-8014 or see www.townofmonument.org for information. To see upcoming agendas and complete board packets or to download audio recordings of past meetings, see monumenttownco.minutesondemand.com and click on Town Council.

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

Other Monument Town Council articles

Monument Planning Commission, Nov. 8 – Maverick station approved

By Leslie Hanks

The first agenda item at the Nov. 8 meeting of the Monument Planning Commission was 3A and 3B, Maverick Junction, Lot 1, Monument Junction West, Filing 1—Preliminary/Final PUD Plan. The property at 1530 Laughing Lab Way is at the intersection of Highway 105 and Jackson Creek Parkway. The proposed final PUD ordinance approving 1.5 acres is for a Maverick, a convenience/fuel store.

Planning staffer Jeff Liljegren found that the proposal is generally consistent with the Monument Comprehensive Plan. Planning staff explained that the proposal was “more likely consistent than less likely consistent” with the Future Land Use Map (FLUM).

Community concerns continue to focus on views, strong small-town community identity, adequate open space, and noise deterrence.

Staff found the proposal is consistent with most of the goals of the Comprehensive Plan.

Additionally, staff found two items consistent with Monument land use policies: transportation and economic opportunities.

The associated traffic study found 4,149 weekday trips anticipated. The proposed Maverick convenience store is expected to generate an average of 4,000 trips per weekday. This will be a Level of Service (LOS) of F or better (F is a low score) for peak drive time in afternoons. A traffic signal will be warranted at Jackson Creek and Fat Tire Drive due to the LOS—F rating.

Staff explained that Lot 1 (Maverick convenience store) and Lot 4 (Whataburger) were already approved. According to records, the Final Plat for Monument Junction West, Filing 1—the two lots—was recorded on May 19, 2022.

This hearing was originally scheduled for the September and October meetings, which were cancelled. Proper notice was given for all three Planning Commission hearings.

Applicant Kevin Dice has met all 13 criteria for preliminary PUD review and all nine for final review.

Dice, senior planning manager for Maverick, gave a presentation about Maverick’s history, including a merger with Flying J. In September, Maverick completed a purchase of Kum & Go, making the Maverick holdings a total of 800 stores; 400 Maverick stores and 400 Kum & Go. Dice explained that the store is a 24/7 operation which will carry beer, wine, and tobacco but no spirits. The store will have fresh food prepared daily, and restrooms will be open to the public. Although there is a high flow component to the business, which will accommodate trucks, it is not a truck stop.

Consultant Mark Horton, a civil engineer, gave a brief presentation on Jackson Creek/Highway 105 improvement plans. “We’re on phase 2 with the Colorado Department of Transportation, El Paso County and Monument [three jurisdictions] reviewing transportation needs and we’re hopeful we can get started [in the] next year to 18 months, which should greatly improve the intersection of Highway 105 and Jackson Creek Parkway.”

Commissioner Martin Trujillo called for public comments in attendance and online, and there were none.

Trujillo then asked for commissioners’ comments and questions.

The commissioners discussed the proximity of the new Maverick station to the Kum & Go on Highway105 only 700 feet away. Dice explained that they have many locations where they have stores across the street from each other. Concerns were raised again about truck traffic. The applicant explained that the only 18-wheeler traffic onsite should be for fuel deliveries.

The measure passed on a 6-0 vote. It will now be considered by the Monument Town Council.

ZEAL at Jackson Creek

The next proposal on the agenda was measure 3B “ZEAL at Jackson Creek” Preliminary/Final Plat application. The property is at Higby and Bowstring Roads, off Jackson Creek Parkway. The property is 20.1 acres, zoned PRD10 Residential attached.

Staff reported that the proposal was substantially in compliance with the FLUM. They clarified that it is “more likely than less likely” consistent.

“Triview Metro District’s proposed improvements to Higby Road and adequate turn lanes make this proposal more than 50% in compliance with the Comprehensive Plan,” staff noted. Zoning for this proposal was approved in March 2015. This property is part of Regency Park 6th Amended and rezoned Plan—PRD10 Planned Residential District, Multi-Family land use.

The traffic study indicates this proposal would generate 1,238 trips daily. A roundabout is planned for traffic control through 2048. The project was rated LOS-C or better.

Still in question is the matter of whether the Higby Road right of way (ROW) of 95 feet is enough. Further discussion ensued about whether Higby Road should be a major collector (90 feet) or be a minor arterial (120 feet).

Jim Doby of Doby Development Group presented the ZEAL for Living “From Living to Thriving” proposal. Jim McGrady, district manager for Triview Metro District, also gave input about transportation matters.

Commissioner Trujillo closed the hearing after no public responses were received. He asked for commissioners’ input.

There was quite a bit of discussion about the nature of the proposal being more rental space while the Monument community has made it quite clear that it prefers single-family residential to multi-family attached.

Also, there was much discussion about the transportation concerns over Higby Road and whether there will be enough ROW with this proposal. After much input from Vice Chair Danny Ours and Commissioner Kathy Green, there was consensus for a continuance to further explore the transportation issues and whether the proposal, as presented, would actually be what will be developed in the event the property would be sold after the Preliminary/Final Plat was granted.

Commissioner Ours asked, “Could this 20-acre parcel be combined with other acreage and do a totally different proposal?”

Commissioner Green raised the concern, “Is this whole thing about circumventing code for a narrower ROW?”

After much debate, there was a request for a continuance for more time to study maps, roadways, and ROWs to better understand long-term Higby Road needs.

Commissioner Ours asked staff whether the owner was advised about Monument not wanting more rental properties. A staff member replied, “That isn’t the role of staff to ask those questions or make those comments.”

At this point the applicant stated that he hoped the Planning Commission will be following the Fair Housing Act.

The Commissioners voted 6-1 (Commissioner Ray Egley dissenting) for a continuance and suggested that at future hearings they would appreciate having legal representation available to answer questions for which they might need legal advice.

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The Monument Planning usually meets on the second Wednesday of each month at 6 pm at Monument Town Hall, 645 Beacon Lite Road.. The next meeting is scheduled for Dec. 13. To see the options for remote public participation in each meeting, visit www.townofmonument.org/263/Planning-Commission-Board-of-Adjustment. To see upcoming agendas and complete board packets or to download audio recordings of past meetings, see monumenttownco.minutesondemand.com and click on Planning Commission. Info: 719-884-8028. www.townofmonument.org.

Leslie Hanks can be reached at lesliehanks@ocn.me.

Other Monument Planning Commission articles

Monument Town Council, Oct. 2, 16, and 19 – Councilmembers scrutinize traffic report, proposed investments, park development, and resolution opposing Proposition HH

By Chris Jeub

Two regular meetings and one special meeting took care of many issues in Monument in October. These included water management, streetscape redesign, traffic safety, investment strategy, and community park development.

Monument traffic study

Councilmember Ken Kimple expressed his dissatisfaction with police Commander John Lupton’s traffic study, which Kimple had specifically requested. Lupton’s presentation provided insights into how the Police Department tracks traffic citations, accidents, and citizen complaints. He made it clear that the study aimed to provide objective data to enhance traffic safety. However, Kimple was not entirely satisfied and referred to it as “a good start.”

Kimple raised concerns during the presentation, emphasizing that he had asked for studies in areas where he had personal experiences, including near-miss incidents involving himself and his wife. He particularly highlighted issues near Jackson Creek Parkway, where he believed speeding cars were a major concern. He sought more comprehensive solutions to mitigate speeding and improve safety in these areas.

Commander Lupton responded by underlining his extensive 32 years of experience in conducting traffic studies. He explained that the Police Department’s role was to use data for objective decision-making and to respond with changes and enforcement measures. He also clarified that certain traffic issues, like the implementation of speed bumps, were under the jurisdiction of the Planning Department, not law enforcement. Despite Lupton’s explanations, Kimple continued to express doubts and the need for more comprehensive actions to address traffic problems in his neighborhood.

Wells Fargo investment strategy criticized

Rachel Brown from Wells Fargo addressed the Monument Town Council, shedding light on an investment strategy involving the money market fund specifically designed for government entities. This initiative aimed to allow the town to maximize the interest on funds held in its bank accounts, potentially boosting revenue. Brown explained that when the town’s daily balance exceeds its target amount, the excess funds are transferred into an omnibus account overnight and invested the following morning when the financial market opens. Conversely, if the balance falls below the target, provisional credit is extended to bring the town back to the desired level, and funds are redeemed the next morning when the market reopens.

Mayor Mitch LaKind asked for assurances regarding the protection of taxpayer money and expressed concerns about issues such as fraud and fines that had been imposed on the bank in recent years. Brian Scott, managing director for Wells Fargo, specializing in government clients, responded by acknowledging the bank’s troubled history, notably the fines imposed in 2016. He clarified that it had been a disappointing chapter in the bank’s history but reassured the council that the Community Reinvestment Act (CRA) rating for the bank had returned to the highest rating of “outstanding” status by 2020. Despite Scott’s explanation, LaKind remained unsatisfied and pressed for further safeguards to protect the town’s money from any potential misconduct by bank employees.

Kimple inquired about Wells Fargo’s motivation for the initiative, to which Scott responded that they aimed to provide excellent service to the town as a client. Councilmember Jim Romanello countered the dissention by first referencing his financial advisor experience of over 30 years, then sharing insights about money markets, emphasizing the relatively low level of risk associated with them. He encouraged the town to take advantage of the current high interest rates.

Director of Finance Mona Hirjoi, who presented the initiative, suggested that monthly reports could be included to track the revenue generated by the fund. LaKind continued to express dissatisfaction in Wells Fargo, but the council still gave direction to the town staff to continue with the investment fund.

Heart of Monument Playpark

Resolution No. 64-2023 was discussed, which involved approving a contract with N.E.S. for the design and management of the Heart of Monument Playpark. The decision to select N.E.S. was reached after evaluation of proposals and presentations. It was clarified that the funding for this project primarily stemmed from fundraising efforts by the Kiwanis organization, which had successfully secured $35,000 of the estimated $47,000 required for the design phase, with the total cost of park construction estimated at $450,000.

Scott Ross, representing Kiwanis, shared insights into the fundraising sources, which included substantial contributions from both grants and local donations. However, during the discussion, Councilmember Steve King expressed doubts and questioned the financial aspects of the project. He sought clarification on who would be responsible for the costs and expressed difficulty in comprehending the $47,000 price tag for park design. Furthermore, King voiced concerns about N.E.S.’s past interactions with the community, claiming a “lack of compassion.”

Katy Frank, a project manager with N.E.S., responded by assuring the council that she has always approached projects with community interests in mind. King inquired about Frank’s role in the project, to which she confirmed her involvement as the lead. Councilmember Kimple raised a question about the park’s compliance with the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA), and Frank affirmed that the park would indeed be ADA compliant.

Continuing to seek clarification, King questioned the scoring method for selecting N.E.S., and Madeline VanDenHoek explained that N.E.S. was chosen primarily due to their experience with fundraising, which was crucial for the project’s success. In the end, the motion to approve the contract with N.E.S. for the park’s design and management passed unanimously.

Water issues

Two presentations were given during the Oct. 2 meeting, both explaining Monument’s water resources and soliciting the town’s involvement. The first presentation was given by Jim McGrady, general manager for the Triview Metropolitan District, concerning the Northern Delivery System (NDS). The importance of storage was underscored as it provides the town with reserves in case of droughts. “If we don’t conserve and the aquifer drops, pretty soon you find yourself without access to water,” McGrady warned. His presentation ended with the request for Monument to tap into the Triview water district. “We need to know now” if Monument would like to work with Triview.

The second presentation was from John Guzman and Jessie Schaffer of the El Paso County Regional Loop Water Authority (EPCRLWA). Established in 2022, the EPCRLWA is seeking Monument’s participation, with a total project cost estimated to be $150 million to $200 million. The primary objective is to transition away from the Denver Basin as quickly as possible and adopt a “3 Rs” approach: reducing, repurposing, and reusing water sources.

Notable distinctions between the EPCRLWA and the NDS project were discussed, including EPCRLWA’s independence from third-party involvement and potential value-creation opportunities. During the discussion, Mayor LaKind expressed concern over the wide cost estimate range and urged the EPCRLWA to provide more accurate figures. In response, EPCRLWA representatives explained that the wide price range was meant to prevent misrepresentation. Schaffer insisted that the EPCRLWA is about six months out from having more accurate numbers. Amy Lathen, general manager for the EPCRLWA, concluded the presentation by emphasizing that numbers are difficult to put up right now, but the EPCRLWA allows for options to get off dependence from the Denver Basin. “Autonomy is one of the major goals [of the EPCRLWA],” she said.

After the lengthy discussion, Romanello motioned to move Resolution No. 59-2023: A Resolution Affirming Participation in the Loop Water Authority Project to the first meeting in December.

Streetscape design concepts

Michelle Lazarz, a student at the University of Colorado, presented redesign proposals for Historic Downtown Monument. The primary focus of her presentation was on wayfinding and streetscape design concepts, with the intention to enhance the area’s appeal and attract visitors from the nearby interstate.

A significant aspect of the project involved assessing the existing parking spaces in the area, which currently consisted of 66 parallel parking spaces. A survey with 350 respondents was conducted. The proposal included three parking alternatives designed to optimize parking capacity while preserving the historic charm of the downtown area. However, it was emphasized that these were preliminary design concepts that would require further in-depth surveys to ensure compliance with ADA standards and streetscape regulations. The estimated budget for these proposed upgrades and improvements was $2.2 million, encompassing enhancements to the streetscape, signage, and parking facilities.

Councilmembers posed questions and sought clarifications. Some of the key points of discussion included the consideration of roundabouts in the design, the potential increase in parking spaces with angle parking, and next steps in the project. The forthcoming stages of the project, including grant writing and planning, will be instrumental in bringing these innovative concepts to life for the benefit of Monument’s residents and visitors.

Resolution to oppose Proposition HH dies

Mayor LaKind presented Resolution No. 65-2023, which addressed the council’s position on Proposition HH, a state bill with potential ramifications for Monument residents’ taxes. The resolution explicitly conveyed the council’s opposition to Proposition HH and encouraged Monument residents to vote against it.

However, the introduction of the resolution sparked a discussion among councilmembers. Councilmember Kimple raised concerns about the council advising residents on how to vote, fearing it might lead to legal complications. Councilmembers Laura Kronick and King also voiced apprehensions, emphasizing the council’s need to remain apolitical. In response, LaKind referenced Rep. Don Wilson’s remarks that previous boards had passed similar resolutions. To navigate the legal aspects of the matter, the council sought guidance from the town attorney, Robert Cole.

Cole clarified that the law allowed the council to disseminate information and cited examples of other clients using similar resolutions. Councilmember Marco Fiorito clarified that the resolution aimed to express the council’s opinion rather than dictate how residents should vote. Kronick emphasized the council’s non-political stance, recommending that they refrain from taking a political position. Although LaKind called for a motion to approve the resolution, no motion was presented, resulting in the resolution being dropped.

Emergency sign ordinance

On Oct. 18, the MTC held a special session to address concerns raised by the Monument Citizens for the First Amendment, a newly formed activist group, regarding the town’s sign ordinance. The group claimed that the ordinance and its enforcement unconstitutionally restricted free speech, particularly related to political signage in public rights of way. An executive session was convened, and after discussions, the council decided not to pass an emergency ordinance temporarily suspending the enforcement of the specific section in question. The council, backed by the town attorney, argued that the existing sign code met legal standards and did not discriminate based on sign content.

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The Monument Council usually meets at 6:30 p.m. on the first and third Mondays of each month at Monument Town Hall, 645 Beacon Lite Road. The next meeting is scheduled for Monday, Nov. 6, but the Monday, Nov. 20, meeting has been cancelled. Call 719-884-8014 or see www.townofmonument.org for information. To see upcoming agendas and complete board packets or to download audio recordings of past meetings, see https://monumenttownco.minutesondemand.com and click on Town Council.

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

Other Monument Town Council articles