OCN

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

OCN > montc

montc

Monument Town Council, Nov. 4 and 18 – Monument Council addresses budget, watershed, community initiatives

By Chris Jeub

Monument Mayor Mitch LaKind opened the Nov. 4 meeting by addressing a tragic hit-and-run accident earlier that day which resulted in the loss of life. He commended the swift response of local police and fire departments in managing the situation and called for a moment of silence to honor the victim. Later, the suspect involved in the incident turned themselves in, according to local authorities.

LaKind also read a proclamation recognizing Nov. 4-8 as Law Enforcement Records Personnel Week. The proclamation highlighted the crucial role these professionals play in supporting law enforcement through tasks like maintaining criminal justice statistics and aiding in suspect apprehensions. It praised their professionalism, efficiency, and compassion in serving the community and acknowledged their essential contributions to public safety.

Two Monument police officers were sworn in, and one was promoted at the Town Council meeting on Nov. 18.

Above: The new officers are (L to R) Joshua Teeples and Anthony Sealey. Teeples’ wife Leah pinned the badge on her husband and Sealey’s wife Alexandra did the same for her husband. The hirings bring the total number of officers to 29. Chief Patrick Regan says there’s room for one more officer in the budget.

Joshua Teeples (left) and Anthony Sealey are sworn into the Monument Police Department (52 sec)

Joshua Teeples says he’s proud to be joining the Monument Police Department (28 sec)

Anthony Sealey says he’s proud to be joining the Monument Police Department (30 sec)

Above: After the new policemen were sworn in, Officer Christopher Sullivan was promoted to sergeant. His son Kieran had some trouble pinning the badge on his father. He jumped when his dad jokingly shouted, “Ouch!” Photos by Michael Weinfeld.

Town of Monument budget presentations

The 2024 Amended Budget for the General Fund was reviewed, highlighting an increase in the unreserved fund balance from 16.46% in the approved budget to 30.76%. Key contributors to the change included adjustments to prior beginning balances tied to audited 2023 financials, adding $300,000 in investment earnings and a $175,000 reduction in user charge revenue due to a lack of funding from Triview for the comprehensive plan. While the improved fund balance was noted, council members expressed concern over the reliance on investment earnings and reduced revenue streams, emphasizing the need for sustainable financial strategies.

The 2024 Amended Budget for the Water Fund increased the ending fund balance from $3.2 million to $18.2 million, driven by adjustments to prior balances, reallocation of reserves, and spending cuts. Key reductions included $750,000 from booster station upgrades and $450,000 from the valve and pipeline replacement program, offsetting overspending on Wells 11, 12, and 13. A contingency expense of $180,000 was reclassified for repairs, while vehicle and equipment spending dropped by $250,000. However, expenses rose by $260,000 for a new pipeline, and $2.75 million was removed from Forest View Water Tank improvements. Council members discussed balancing immediate infrastructure needs with long-term water fund sustainability.

The proposed 2025 Water Fund budget projects an unreserved fund balance of $4.8 million, with notable changes to expenditures. Revenue adjustments include a $300,000 reduction in investment income due to the completion of the COP bond and reallocated rent revenue from the 259 building. On the expenditure side, the budget allocates $600,000 for the design of a new Public Works building, $290,000 for an Impact Fee Study and consulting services, $180,000 for contingency funds directed to well maintenance, and $342,000 for increased well repair needs. Additionally, the budget reflects a $3 million removal for the Monument Hill Water Tank project, $800,000 cut from booster station expenses, and a reduction in administrative fees following reorganization of staff roles. Council discussions emphasized the importance of managing costs while ensuring the Water Fund’s operational efficiency.

Later in the meeting, Councilmember Steve King sought to clarify inaccuracies in a recent Our Community News (OCN) Letter to the Editor regarding the town’s budget. King asked Town Manager Madeline VanDenHoek and Chief of Police Patrick Regan to confirm key points on the record. VanDenHoek affirmed that the town is not operating under a budget deficit, while Regan stated that the Police Department’s budget has not been reduced and is, in fact, higher than the previous year.

Regan clarified that funds designated for specific purposes, like 2F, cannot legally be diverted, and there is no plan or mechanism to “defund the police.” King emphasized that the letter’s claims were inaccurate and misrepresented the council’s financial planning efforts. LaKind added his criticism, claiming the letter “completely disingenuous” and called for more constructive engagement.

Note: Councilmember Kronick has written a letter of response in this issue. See the letter on page < 19 >.

Rezoning ordinance approved for 574 N. Washington St.

The Monument Town Council unanimously approved Ordinance No. 23-2024, rezoning the property at 574 N. Washington St. from Downtown Business (DB) to Single-Family Detached Medium Density (SFD-2). Staff recommended approval of the ordinance. During the discussion, Councilmember Sana Abbott inquired about the impact on surrounding properties, while King asked about potential uses under the new zoning, with staff clarifying that the property could accommodate, at most, a duplex.

The property owner explained that the site was originally subdivided in the 1990s for a business bike shop and updated to comply with residential codes for commercial upgrades. The ordinance restores the property to residential zoning, aligning with its intended use.

Fountain Creek Watershed District projects update

Alli Schuch, executive director of the Fountain Creek Watershed District, provided an update on the district’s efforts to manage the 927-square-mile watershed spanning nine regional governments. She highlighted the challenges of the highly erratic watershed, shaped by dramatic elevation changes, erosive soils, and increased water flows due to infrastructure like the Southern Delivery System (SDS). These conditions result in flooding, erosion, and sedimentation issues, compounded by rapid population growth and water usage.

Schuch detailed various initiatives, including watershed restoration projects funded through a $50 million settlement tied to the SDS, educational outreach programs, and collaboration with landowners to mitigate erosion. However, she emphasized the district’s struggle with limited funding, underscoring the need for sustainable solutions.

Schuch also discussed new developments aimed at long-term watershed health, including a proposed wetland mitigation bank to offset development impacts and generate sustainable funding. She addressed specific local concerns, such as the Jackson Creek project, which involves multiple stakeholders, including the Air Force Academy and El Paso County, to address severe erosion and habitat loss.

By forming a Monument Creek watershed group and securing a $350,000 grant for scoping efforts, the district aims to restore critical areas while balancing environmental protection and community needs. Schuch concluded by stressing the importance of collaboration and proactive management to address shared risks and preserve the watershed for future generations.

Councilmembers King and Romanello expressed strong support for the district’s efforts. King recounted observations from a recent watershed tour, noting the severe downstream impacts of erosion, including collapsing cliffs, unusable roads, and compromised infrastructure. He highlighted the need to prioritize upstream solutions, offering examples of local challenges caused by complex water rights.

Romanello echoed the importance of addressing upstream issues, pointing out that downstream projects risk failure without them. He also highlighted the district’s financial constraints, which rely on voluntary contributions and grants, and warned against waiting for catastrophic events to drive funding, referencing past Colorado floods. Both councilmembers reinforced the value of proactive measures and collaboration to secure the watershed’s future.

Heart of Monument Park design update

Cassie Olgren, Parks and Trails planner and program manager, presented the final design update for the Heart of Monument Park, a collaborative effort led by the Monument Hill Kiwanis Club and supported by the Monument Community Presbyterian Church. The project aims to create a universally accessible playground and park in downtown Monument, incorporating community and stakeholder input gathered over the past two years.

The design features Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA)-compliant playground equipment, additional ADA parking, and pathways connecting to nearby trails and sidewalks. NES, the design firm, developed plans to integrate the space with the adjacent Water-Wise Demonstration Garden. Generous contributions from the Colorado Springs Health Foundation and other donors have supported the project, with more grants and fundraising efforts underway.

The project is divided into phases, with Phase 1 focusing on site preparation, playground construction, parking, and connecting sidewalks, targeting a 2025 groundbreaking and 2026 completion. Future phases include exercise equipment, shade structures, and landscaping extensions to the Water-Wise Garden, offering flexibility to adapt to evolving community needs.

Olgren emphasized the project’s inclusive nature, with ramp-accessible structures for all abilities, and highlighted the importance of community partnerships in bringing the park to life. Final vendor selection and detailed cost estimations will follow the release of a request for proposals, enabling further progress toward making this long-awaited community project a reality.

New book chronicles Monument Cemetery history

During public comments, Michael Weinfeld and John Howe presented their new book, Shootings, Killings, and War Heroes: The History Hidden in Monument’s Cemetery, a detailed expansion of their 73-page report delivered last year. Inspired by Councilwoman Laura Kronick’s suggestion, the duo authored a 140-page volume filled with over 100 historical and contemporary photos and captivating stories about the individuals buried in Monument Cemetery. The book reveals previously untold accounts and fun facts about the cemetery’s history.

The book was released on Nov. 30 with a signing event at Covered Treasures Bookstore, where guests enjoyed cookies and cake while they waited to have their book signed. Copies will also be available at the Tri-Lakes Chamber of Commerce, the Lucretia Vaile Museum in Palmer Lake, and on Amazon. Howe and Weinfeld expressed gratitude to the town for covering publishing costs and encouraged everyone to explore the fascinating stories they uncovered through their volunteer-driven project.

**********

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 Dec. 2 and Dec. 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 http://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, Oct. 7 and 21 – Council discusses finance, nonprofit work, employee survey

By Chris Jeub

The Monument Town Council meetings on Oct. 7 and 21 covered the unanimous approval of a new revenue and finance ordinance, updates from local nonprofits Tri-Lakes Cares and the Pikes Peak Small Business Development Center (SBDC), the results of the town’s first employee satisfaction survey, and public feedback on council stipends and council feedback on a new playground at Limbach Park.

Revenue and finance ordinance

The Monument Board of Trustees voted 7-0 to approve a comprehensive ordinance updating the town’s tax and business regulations. The new rules introduce several changes aimed at improving compliance and streamlining administrative processes. One key change caps the vendor’s fee at $100 per return while maintaining the current rate of 3.33% for timely tax filings. To further encourage digital submissions, the town will begin charging a $25 fee for manual paper filings, which were previously free.

The ordinance sets a fixed interest rate of 1% per month on overdue taxes, replacing the former rate tied to the Colorado State Banking Commission. Penalties for fraud will also be revised, with a new penalty set at either 50% or 100% of the unpaid amount, pending final determination. For repeated violations, a special penalty will be enforced, requiring payment of the greater of 25% of the unpaid tax or $250.

The ordinance also allows the town to recover audit costs by billing taxpayers directly for the time and resources involved. The newly passed regulations repeal and replace existing sections of the municipal code, adding new provisions to better align the town’s business licensing, revenue management, and finance operations with its current needs.

Tri-Lakes Cares updates

Tri-Lakes Cares (TLC) representatives Haley Chapin and Bill Lyons provided an update on the organization’s efforts to address the growing needs of residents in northern El Paso County. TLC is a nonprofit that offers essential services such as food assistance, rent and utility support, car repair aid, medical help, and financial counseling to families and individuals in crisis. The organization serves as a lifeline for those facing unexpected hardships, ensuring that basic needs are met with dignity and care.

Chapin and Lyons emphasized the increasing demand for these services, noting that 58% of households enrolled in TLC programs live below the federal poverty line—$31,200 annually for a family of four. Rising housing costs, rent, and a growing population have added strain to many residents, highlighting the importance of community support. One success story shared involved a mother of two who, after losing her job, was able to stay in her home thanks to TLC’s rent assistance and eventually secured full-time employment.

Both Chapin and Lyons expressed heartfelt gratitude to the Town of Monument for its continued financial support, stressing how critical it is to the organization’s ability to serve the community. “This funding goes a long way,” they said, noting that it helps cover essential costs like rent and utilities for struggling families. They also pointed to TLC’s recent community needs assessment, which aims to keep the organization ahead of emerging challenges in the region.

Pikes Peak SBDC updates

Brandon Eldridge, executive director of the Pikes Peak SBDC, provided an update on the center’s activities and impact. SBDC offers free consulting, training programs, and events to help local businesses grow and thrive. Eldridge mentioned its collaboration with the Tri-Lakes Chamber of Commerce, where it provides coaching and educational presentations to businesses throughout the area.

Eldridge highlighted the Veterans Small Business event held at Great Wolf Lodge on Nov. 1, as well as the popular “Year of AI” presentation, which provided valuable insights into artificial intelligence for the business community. He emphasized that SBDC’s consulting hours—126 so far this year—are offered at no charge, making a significant impact on the success of local entrepreneurs. Eldridge encouraged attendees to sign up for the SBDC’s newsletter to stay connected with future programs and resources. Mayor Mitch LaKind also commented on the presentation, noting several photos featuring Danny Meyer, a friend and entrepreneur, which reflect the center’s deep ties to influential community members. Eldridge closed by thanking the Town of Monument for its ongoing support, stressing that such partnerships are essential to SBDC’s mission of empowering businesses and fostering economic growth.

Employee satisfaction survey

Emily Trujillo, Human Resources manager for the town, presented the results of Monument’s first employee satisfaction survey, conducted from Sept. 5 to 12 using software BambooHR. Designed to ensure anonymity and encourage honest feedback, the survey asked two simple questions: employees’ likelihood to recommend the town as a place to work and suggestions on what makes the workplace great or how it could improve. With an 80% participation rate, the survey provided valuable insights, Trujillo said. Key positives included people, culture, community, atmosphere, and leadership, while areas of concern focused on compensation, communication, recognition, and processes.

Following the survey presentation, Trujillo outlined upcoming action plans, including a compensation survey to be completed by early 2025, initiatives to enhance communication, improved employee recognition programs, and a focus on accountability for policies and procedures. This presentation also set the stage for a discussion on seeking professional vendors to conduct an evaluation of the town manager position. Trujillo mentioned that five evaluation companies were approached, with two submitting proposals. The council discussed which vendor to select but had not reached a decision by the end of the meeting.

LaKind called the survey “a step in the right direction” but requested more detailed data, such as employee comments, and Councilmember Marco Fiorito encouraged the inclusion of longer surveys in future evaluations. Trujillo confirmed a follow-up survey with more depth would be conducted in March.

Public and board comments

Executive Director of Tri-Lakes Cares Haley Chapin spoke again voicing her support for council stipends during public comments not on the agenda. She emphasized how compensation could encourage broader participation and equity in local government.

“A stipend helps level the playing field. Without it, only those with financial flexibility might consider running,” Chapin explained. She noted that serving on the council often comes with personal costs, such as lost work hours, childcare, and transportation, which stipends could help offset. Compensation, she added, could also improve retention, reduce burnout, and attract a more diverse pool of future candidates, ensuring the community is fully represented. Chapin acknowledged that members could donate their stipends to causes like the Police Department or nonprofits but urged the council to consider the broader community benefit.

Councilmember Steve King remarked on the successful launch of the new playground at Limbach Park. He thanked Town Manager Madeline VanDenHoek and the park and public works staff for their hard work. “Every time I drive by, there’s a zillion kids out there, and it’s good to see them outside,” King said, reflecting on the playground’s popularity.

**********
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 Nov. 4 and 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 http://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, Sept. 3 and 16 – Council discusses budget deficits, strategic spending, future priorities

By Chris Jeub

The Monument Town Council met on Sept. 3 and 16 where various financial concerns were brought to light, including shortfalls in the General Fund, Police Fund, and Water Fund. The council worked to identify potential areas for spending adjustments while also tackling issues related to project prioritization, police retention, and councilmember compensation.

2025 budget review

On Sept. 3, Senior Accountant Steve Murray presented the budget outlook, which raised concerns due to projected deficits in some of the town’s primary funds. The General Fund was forecasted to run a deficit of $2.663 million, with revenues projected at $11.672 million and expenditures totaling $14.335 million. Despite this, the fund would maintain a balance of $424,355 in unreserved funds by the end of 2025. The 2F Police Fund was also projected to face a shortfall of $65,358, though it would retain a healthy reserve of $667,741 due to a strong beginning balance. Meanwhile, the Water Fund faced a larger deficit of $4.639 million, leaving only $146,335 in unreserved funds. The 2A Water Fund, however, was in a stronger position, with a deficit of $407,801 but set to end the year with a much larger reserve of $7.04 million.

The conversation focused on finding ways to tighten spending and potentially defer certain projects. Mayor Mitch LaKind highlighted the discrepancy between revenue and expenditure, noting that “there’s quite a bit in the hole … more expenditure than revenue.” Town Manager Madeline VanDenHoek advised the council to provide guidance on which projects could be deferred until 2026, considering the town’s reserves of only 2.6%. VanDenHoek also proposed delaying some parks development to 2026, pending council input. Mayor Pro Tem Steve King questioned the $200,000 cost for implementing new tax collection software, which VanDenHoek clarified would help the town better audit businesses and track collections.

In the follow-up meeting on Sept. 16, Murray provided an updated presentation after identifying additional reserves. The General Fund shortfall was revised to $2.099 million, with a beginning balance of $5.541 million and an unreserved fund balance of $1.156 million (8.43%) by the end of 2025. Adjustments included an additional $150,000 coming from the Police Department’s unreserved balance. The Capital Projects Fund faced a deeper deficit, with an unreserved balance of $4.235 million, largely due to a $9 million allocation for the Jackson Creek Parkway development. Adjustments in the Water Fund improved its outlook, leaving it with $2.614 million in unreserved funds at the year’s end.

During this meeting, the council focused on prioritizing projects, particularly around Jackson Creek Parkway. Councilmember Ken Kimple raised concerns about the implications of not funding supplemental projects, asking for clarity on their order of importance. Police Chief Patrick Regan emphasized the need to retain police officers, particularly in light of the rising cost of living. Kimple also stressed the importance of maintaining fiscal balance amid growing demands, while LaKind called for the council to make some tough decisions moving forward.

Compensation for councilmembers sparks debate

An ongoing topic of discussion throughout recent months resurfaced at the Sept. 16 meeting, with Councilmember Laura Kronick leading the charge on whether councilmembers should receive compensation for their time and effort. Kronick has been advocating for a $500 per month stipend, arguing that it would encourage more community members from diverse backgrounds to engage in public service. She emphasized that serving on the council requires significant time and effort and that compensation would make this role more accessible to those who might not otherwise be able to afford the time commitment. Councilmembers Jim Romanello and Marco Fiorito expressed their agreement, with Romanello thanking Kronick for bringing the issue forward.

However, Kimple strongly opposed the idea, insisting that the town’s limited resources should be directed toward staff and police force needs rather than council compensation, particularly during budget shortfalls. He suggested that if compensation were to be considered, it should be presented to voters as a ballot measure, arguing that the proposal appeared self-serving. Kronick disagreed, countering that putting every small decision to the voters would undermine the council’s effectiveness. King expressed mixed feelings, acknowledging that while compensation could open the door to broader participation, it might also present negative optics given the town’s current financial challenges. Despite the debate, the council ultimately left the issue unresolved.

Sales tax self-collection system update

During the Sept. 16 meeting, Sophia Hassman, sales tax consultant and owner of CoSALT Consulting Ltd., provided an update on the Sales Tax Self-Collection System implementation. Hassman reported that $37,000 had already been collected during the software implementation phase. The go-live date, originally set for Oct. 1, 2024, was pushed to Jan. 1, 2025, to better align with state records and compliance requirements. The system will allow businesses more time to adjust to the new processes, with the first tax returns due in February 2025. Future phases of the project include initiating audits, ensuring compliance, and addressing short-term rental (STR) tax compliance.

Final approval granted for Ziggi’s Coffee drive-through

Also at the Sept. 16 meeting, the council approved Ordinance No. 18-2024, granting final approval for a new Ziggi’s Coffee at 16529 Cinematic View in Monument Marketplace North. Planning Director Dan Ungerleider presented the ordinance, while concerns were raised about traffic and water drainage related to the development. LaKind acknowledged that traffic issues in the area had become problematic, a concern shared by Kronick and Kimple, who noted that traffic had significantly increased since the 2022 traffic study. The council voted 7-0 in favor of the ordinance, with Kimple urging caution to ensure that traffic does not become a “debacle.”

Looking ahead to the Nov. election

Town Clerk Tina Erickson conducted a lot drawing to determine the order of candidate names on the upcoming ballot. For the At-Large position, Romanello will appear first, followed by Chad Smith. In Residential District 2, Kimple will appear first, followed by Fiorito. Residential District 1 remains uncontested, represented by Kronick.

**********

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 two regular meetings are scheduled for Monday, Oct. 7 and Monday, Oct. 21. 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 http://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, Aug. 5 and 19 – Council charts future with key budget, development, and management decisions

By Chris Jeub

The Monument Town Council met twice in August. Discussions centered on the proposed 2025 budget, focusing on revenue projections and critical infrastructure projects. The council also passed an election ordinance to streamline the upcoming town election and approved the final plat for the Monument Lake development. The council endorsed technology upgrades for the Town Council Chambers, appointed Madeline VanDenHoek as the interim town manager, and moved forward with a lodging tax proposal aimed at supporting public amenities.

Town of Monument presents 2025 budget proposal

On Aug. 5, Senior Town Accountant Steve Murray presented the Town of Monument’s proposed 2025 budget, focusing on sales tax revenues, fund allocations, and critical supplemental projects. The budget anticipates an 8.63% sales tax revenue increase, consistent with 2023 figures. Key allocations include directing 0.5% of sales tax to the 2F Police Fund, 50% of sales and use tax from Triview properties to Triview, and 1% to water funds, with a portion allocated to the 2A Water Fund. About 42% of the collected sales tax is projected to support the General Fund. The budget also includes $440,000 for legal expenses across various departments, covering technical and professional services.

Emphasizing infrastructure and technology, the budget outlines significant supplemental projects, such as $9 million allocated for upgrades to Jackson Creek Parkway and $10 million for constructing a new Public Works building. Other enhancements include records and budget software updates and items for the Police Department, like safety equipment and parking lot fencing, totaling around $138,500. The town plans to use restricted reserves, including $2 million for stormwater management projects, and maintain a 3% TABOR reserve.

During the council’s discussion, Councilmember Steve King questioned the necessity of all proposed impact studies, but Town Attorney Bob Cole affirmed their importance, while King stressed the value of impact fees. Mayor LaKind urged Director of Public Works Tom Tharnish to seek creative funding options through water fees.

Councilmember Ken Kimple voiced concerns about the $9 million allocation for the water Loop, noting that actual costs could potentially double. Tharnish responded by announcing a formal presentation on Sept. 3, which will provide more information about the fund. Kimple also expressed disapproval of the current council deciding future pay for councilmembers, advocating for a town ballot decision. In contrast, LaKind argued that since current members would not benefit from the vote, it should not pose an issue. The session concluded with a reminder from Interim Town Manager Madeline VanDenHoek that the budget is a “work in progress” and that this draft serves as an initial step in refining the town’s financial plan.

Election ordinance passed

The Town Council passed Ordinance No. 15-2024 with a 7-0 vote, following lengthy discussion and some disagreement with legal counsel. The ordinance, which calls for the Nov. 5 Town Regular Election to be conducted as a coordinated election, also appoints the town clerk as the designated election official and authorizes an intergovernmental agreement with the El Paso County clerk and recorder. Councilmember King, despite having reservations and concerns that were echoed by a community member, ultimately voted in favor of the ordinance due to time constraints.

Monument Lake final plat approved

During a recent public hearing, the Town Council discussed Resolution No. 25-2024, which pertains to the final plat for Monument Lake Beachfront Filing No. 1. As this was a continuation from previous meetings, Planning Director Dan Ungerleider did not give a new presentation. The proposal, first presented in June, aimed to combine several lots and allow for parking permits. Although the Planning Commission recommended approval with a 7-0 vote and staff confirmed that all review criteria were met, Councilmember King raised concerns about the status of Lake Mountain Lane being listed as a private road. Town staff clarified that while the northern road is private, the town owns the access road.

King expressed his hesitation to send the issue back to staff but questioned the process taken. Ungerleider acknowledged the complexity of the situation and noted that the final plat would clarify the ownership and access issues. Legal counsel Bob Cole confirmed that the town does indeed own the access road, which satisfied the council’s concerns. Consequently, the council unanimously passed the resolution with a 7-0 vote, allowing the project to move forward.

Town Council approves technology upgrades

Director of IT Will Williams presented a proposal to the Town Council requesting $137,000 for technology and audio-visual upgrades to the Town Council Chambers. Williams expressed enthusiasm for the project, assuring council members that the new equipment would be fully utilized and not left to “sit in a closet.” LaKind asked if the project would be completed by the end of the year. Williams confirmed that the upgrades would be finished by the middle of the fourth quarter. During the renovation, council sessions will be temporarily moved to another location. The resolution was passed unanimously with a 7-0 vote.

VanDenHoek appointed as interim town manager

In a unanimous 7-0 decision, the Town Council appointed Director of Parks and Community Partnerships VanDenHoek as the interim town manager, following Cole’s recommendation after the departure of Mike Foreman. The town had been operating under a co-manager arrangement with VanDenHoek and Police Chief Patrick Regan. Mayor LaKind motioned for VanDenHoek’s appointment, relieving Regan from his co-management responsibilities. Regan, who expressed his enjoyment working alongside VanDenHoek, stated his preference to return to his primary role as police chief. VanDenHoek accepted the interim position and agreed to the $175,000 annual salary.

Council moves forward with lodging tax proposal

During the Aug. 5 meeting, the Town Council discussed the introduction of a 5% lodging tax for hotels, short-term rentals (STRs), third parties, and truck stops, with an estimated revenue of $220,000 annually. The proposed tax, aimed at benefiting public amenities such as parks and playgrounds, would be enforced using Deckard Technology LLC to identify and ensure compliance among STRs within the town. Senior Accountant Steve Murray explained that while STRs would be managed through technology, truck stops would undergo individual audits. Mayor LaKind emphasized the importance of getting the lodging tax proposal on the ballot for the Nov. 5 election.

The formal ordinance, identified as Ordinance No. 16-2024, was introduced and voted on in the Aug. 19 meeting, following the earlier discussions. The ordinance outlines the submission of the lodging tax proposal to eligible voters and amends the Monument Municipal Code to include the new tax, contingent upon voter approval. The council unanimously passed the ordinance in a 7-0 vote, clearing the way for the issue to be decided by Monument residents in the regular town election.

**********

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 Tuesday, Sept. 3 (following the Labor Day holiday) and Sept. 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 http://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, July 31 – Special Town Council Meeting Results in Town Manager’s Dismissal

By Chris Jeub

This report covers the special Town Council meeting on July 31st, 2024, which was not included in the print edition due to time constraints.

The Town of Monument held a special Town Council meeting on July 31st, 2024. The council conducted three executive sessions: one to determine positions relative to negotiations, another for legal advice on specific personnel matters, and the third concerning personnel matters involving Town Manager Mike Foreman. All motions to enter the executive sessions passed unanimously.

Following the executive sessions, the council considered Resolution No. 46-2024, which approved an employment separation release and settlement agreement for Town Manager Mike Foreman. The reason for Foreman’s dismissal was not disclosed. The resolution was discussed and passed with a unanimous vote of 7-0. No public comments were made, and the meeting adjourned.

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

Other Monument Town Council articles