TOWN OF CASTLE ROCK
VOL. 11, ISSUE 3
Fall • Winter 2014
A magazine for everyone who calls Castle Rock home
Connect with Your Town A new Council was elected in April. Learn more about the seven members.
Philip S. Miller Park
Help name a signature facility at the Town’s largest park.
North Meadows Extension Phased construction keeps this project moving ahead.
Castle Rock Recreation Center 2301 Woodlands Blvd. Castle Rock, CO 80104
ECRWSS POSTAL CUSTOMER CASTLE ROCK, CO
PRESRT STD U.S. POSTAGE PAID CASTLE ROCK, CO PERMIT NO. 26
New Council I’m honored that my fellow Town Councilmembers have chosen me as Castle Rock’s Mayor for another two years. Their faith in me strengthens my energy and passion for representing our Town and its residents.
In this issue
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On the move
Fleet Division is nationally recognized
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Flood control
Learn how creeks and streams help the Town manage water during storms
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Golf fore! all
Fall is a great time to swing into Red Hawk Ridge
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In your community
They’re your partners in crime prevention. Learn how CRPD is being proactive
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The fun continues
Don’t leave the fun just because summer is winding down. Downtown Castle Rock still has a lot to offer this fall
Alongside me in that representation are two new Councilmembers. Voters in southern Castle Rock elected George Teal to represent District 6, and voters on the east end chose Brett Ford as District 7’s representative. Read all about them, and the rest of Council – including our new Mayor Pro Tem Jennifer Green – on Pages 8-11. Of course, the arrival of these two new members meant we said goodbye to two outgoing members – Mayor Pro Tem Joe “JoePro” Procopio and Councilman Clark Hammelman, who represented Districts 7 and 6. We are thankful for their contributions and years of service to the community. Looking ahead, your new Council has much on the horizon. Great progress has been made this summer on construction of the North Meadows Extension (Pages 4-5) and of Philip S. Miller Park (Pages 20-21). Our goal as a Council always has been, and always will be, to do the right thing for our community. Not only for those who live here now, but also for generations to come. We take this responsibility very seriously, and we always welcome the input of our residents to help guide us in this endeavor. May God bless you and your families in all things, Mayor Paul Donahue
where to call community resources at a glance Animal control/nonemergency Police Building permits Business licenses Chamber of Commerce Code enforcement Douglas County government Douglas County Libraries Elections/voter information Fire Department nonemergency Main Town number Municipal Court Park rentals
303-663-6100 720-733-3527 720-733-2227 303-688-4597 720-733-3559 303-660-7400 303-791-7323 303-660-1367 303-660-1066 303-660-1015 303-663-6133 720-733-2260
Public Works/snow removal Recreation Center Red Hawk Ridge Golf Course Town Council information Town employment Transit-dependent services Utility/water billing Water conservation
E mergency Mass Notification Life can change with just a moment’s notice. Make sure you are connected to emergency personnel. To register, visit CRgov.com/CodeRED.
A publication of the Castle Rock Community Relations Division Design Karen McGrath, Community Relations Creative Services Supervisor Lisa Edgar, Imagine Design
Executive Editor Fritz Sprague, Deputy Town Manager
720-733-2462 303-660-1036 720-733-3500 303-660-1367 720-733-2218 303-814-6407 303-660-1373 720-733-6000
Editors Caroline Kipp, Community Relations Specialist Karen McGrath, Community Relations Creative Services Supervisor KerriAnne Mukhopadhyay, Community Relations Specialist Kristin Zagurski, Management Analyst
Photography Mark Sims, Lisa Sorbo, Tim Tonge and Versatility Marketing On the cover Fall is the perfect time to hit a few rounds at Red Hawk Ridge.
I-25 sign guidelines
More businesses are sure to open within the view of those traveling through Town on Interstate 25. Through a public process conducted last spring, the Town knows the community wants those businesses’ signs to be well-proportioned; tastefully lighted; and constructed with natural materials, among other preferences. The preferences have been developed into a reference for businesses developing new signs, called the I-25 Sign Plan, available at CRgov.com/i25signs. Thank you to those who gave feedback for the plan.
Roadwork updates
GOOD TO KNOW
Soliciting season
Door-to-door soliciting spans many seasons, from spring’s aeration offers to fall’s winterization ones. No matter the time of year, the Town requires solicitors to apply for a Town license and to comply with the Town’s “No Knock” regulations. These regulations restrict soliciting to between 9 a.m. and 7 p.m. and prohibit solicitors from knocking on doors at addresses registered on the Town’s “No Knock” list or displaying any type of “No Soliciting” sign. Get added to the list, and request a Town “No Knock” sticker, at CRgov.com/NoKnock. If a solicitor knocks without a license, outside the allowed hours or at a home with a “No Soliciting” sign, report it immediately to the Police Department’s nonemergency line, 303-663-6100.
Routine work on streets, sidewalks and water lines helps maintain the Town’s investment in public infrastructure. This work – as well as special events – can cause street and lane closures in Town. While these closures might seem random to drivers, nonemergency work is actually well planned, and the Town has a method for keeping the public in the loop. CRgov.com/roadwork is updated at the end of each week with information on closures for the upcoming week, including a map. Visit the page for a heads up on any work that’s anticipated along your normal routes.
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Keeping pace
with the Town’s most important road construction project Phase one of the North Meadows Extension is nearly complete Building the Town’s largest roadway project ever means balancing a complex construction schedule through three project phases.
near Castle View High School, and ends on the west side of East Plum Creek. As part of this phase, crews will build the bridge over the BNSF Railway.
Construction on the North Meadows Extension began in October 2013, and initial parts of the roadway can now be seen from both U.S. Highway 85 and Interstate 25.
The first phase also includes updates to the intersection of Meadows Boulevard and North Meadows Drive, including new turn lanes, helping drivers reach I-25.
To complete this roadway, which will connect The Meadows to both highways, project engineers divided it into three construction phases. Phase one is underway and will likely be complete by the end of the year. It starts on the western side of the new roadway,
The project's second phase will be the interchange with I-25, on the very east side of the project. The interchange will include access to and from all directions of the interstate and the new road, with the new road running underneath I-25. Construction on this phase is expected to begin soon.
With the bridge over the BNSF tracks nearly complete, crews have started part of the third phase of the project – the bridge over East Plum Creek, which will ultimately be 800 feet long. Supporting that bridge will be more than 21 caissons drilled 80 feet into the ground. Along with the bridge over the creek, the third phase will also include the interchange with U.S. 85 and a bridge over the Union Pacific Railroad. The new road will travel over U.S. 85. New ramps will allow traffic to access the highway from the new roadway, and traffic along U.S. 85 will flow as it does now. The interchange is designed so the most traffic can flow through the interchange at one time.
Benefits of the North Meadows Extension • Provides a second northern access for residents traveling into and out of The Meadows • Reduces traffic and delays along Meadows Parkway • Improves operations at the existing Meadows/Founders Parkway interchange with Interstate 25
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Meet the team that keeps Castle Rock moving Town Fleet Division is top notch The order of the phases was designed based on complexity, with phase three being the most complex. Initially, the roadway will have one lane in each direction. However, some groundwork will be laid, so future expansion will be easier to complete when necessary. Learn more about the project and sign up for updates at CRgov.com/nme.
We all depend on our cars. They get us to the grocery store and work and help us take our kids where they need to go. For Castle Rock emergency crews, reliable transportation means saving lives. Behind those crews is a nationally recognized team of technicians. The employees of the Castle Rock Fleet Services Division maintain nearly 400 different vehicles – everything from emergency units to front loaders, snowplows and even riding lawn mowers. Throughout the past year, these employees completed 145 brake and 295 tire repairs. They did 919 preventative maintenance services, which included tire rotations, oil changes and inspections. They also do complex repairs and determine when vehicles need to be replaced.
“Their hard work and expertise mean a snowplow is ready no matter when the snow falls, or an ambulance can leave the station as soon
as that call comes through.” For all of their work, these employees have been recognized. This year, they were named in The 100 Best Fleets in North America list, sponsored by Governing magazine. There are more than 38,000 public fleets in North America. They were also honored for the third time with the National Institute for Automotive Service Excellence’s Blue Seal of Excellence. The division is one of just eight statewide to receive this distinction, which recognizes auto shops where 75 percent of the technicians have passed the program’s voluntary test. Castle Rock’s team earned the distinction earlier this year. At the time, there were five employees, and all were certified. A sixth technician was recently hired, so the division can continue to meet service levels. “Their motto is ‘keeping Castle Rock on the move,’ and that’s exactly what they do,” said Castle Rock Public Works Director Bob Goebel. “Their hard work and expertise mean a snowplow is ready no matter when the snow falls, or an ambulance can leave the station as soon as that call comes through.” CRgov.com 5
(TABOR)
Colorado’s Taxpayer
Regional contributions for regional project bring TABOR challenges Funding a massive project like the North Meadows Extension is challenging, even for a fiscally responsible community like Castle Rock. The new road was initially planned to start near Castle View High School and end at an intersection with U.S. Highway 85. Soon after planning for that segment got underway, regional considerations led the project’s scope to increase, to continue the road to Interstate 25. Instead of one intersection, as initially envisioned, the road will have two raised interchanges with federal highways. The interchanges, along with topography changes and crossings over railroads and East Plum Creek, are contributing to the project’s $70 million cost. That cost would have been a lot for Castle Rock taxpayers to bear alone. Because the project will provide regional benefits extending beyond Castle Rock’s borders, Town leaders turned to neighbors and other partners to help get together all of the funds needed to start construction last fall. Douglas County pledged $10.5 million, toward the segment between U.S. 85 and I-25, and the Colorado Department of Transportation
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awarded $4.6 million to help fund the interchange at U.S. 85. Without these regional contributions, the North Meadows Extension would have been more years in the making, as the Town alone accumulated the funding needed to cover the cost. The County and CDOT’s contributions are appropriate not only because the project has regional benefits, but because Castle Rock taxpayers also pay taxes to those entities. So, the Town’s successful negotiations for their contributions provide all local taxpayers a return on their investments. However, the contributions could have an unintended effect. Unlike most of its tax-supported neighbors, the Town is subject to revenue restrictions under Colorado’s Taxpayer Bill of Rights, or TABOR. (TABOR allows voters to lift revenue restrictions, and such has been done for most neighboring governments.) Planned North Meadows Extension contributions from the County and CDOT were poised to put Town revenues over the TABOR limit for 2014. Town Council in June decided Town staff should manage when
Bill of Rights
and how those contributions are delivered in an attempt to alleviate the TABOR issue. This management is likely to resolve the issue expected in 2014, but contributions now planned for 2015 could cause revenues to top the TABOR limit then. If that happens, Town Council could defer other projects in order to refund the revenues TABOR says it cannot keep, or to ask voters whether the Town can retain the funds to use for future community investments.
Art Encounters
ADDS COLOR TO CASTLE ROCK Colorful forms frolic in Butterfield Crossing Park. Steel spirals extend into the air outside the Clubhouse at Red Hawk Ridge Golf Course. White and red waves intermingle in multiple dimensions at Festival Park. All are thanks to the Countywide public art program Art Encounters, now in its seventh year. Along with Castle Rock, Highlands Ranch, Lone Tree and Parker participate in the program, funded in part through the Scientific and Cultural Facilities District (SCFD). Artist Ivan Kosta created “Wellness Globe,” in Butterfield Park; Kevin Shaffer
“Needle and Thread,” at the golf course; and Barbara Baer “Bower,” in Festival Park. The Town paid each a $500 stipend to display his/her piece through May or June 2015. This is funded through the Philip S. Miller Trust Fund – no taxpayer money is used to purchase public art in Castle Rock. The forms will add interest in other locations after leaving their pedestals in Castle Rock. New pieces can be expected to rotate into their places, continuing to better our landscape.
“Bower,” translucent polycarbonate panel, $7,000 – Festival Park, 300 Second St.
Learn more about public art in Castle Rock at CRgov.com/publicart and more about Art Encounters at douglas.co.us/artencounters.
“Wellness Globe,” painted steel, $24,300 – Butterfield Crossing Park, 3952 W. Butterfield Crossing Drive
“Needle and Thread,” steel sculpture, $15,000 – Red Hawk Ridge Golf Course, 2156 Red Hawk Ridge Drive
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M AYO R – T O W N C O U N C I L DISTRICT 1, THE MEADOWS
Paul Donahue First elected in 2008. Term expires in 2016.
Background: Mayor Donahue grew up on a farm in south-central Nebraska. He first came to Castle Rock in 1990, when he started work toward his master’s degree in business administration at the University of Colorado. He and his family have lived in Castle Rock since 2002. Paul also has a bachelor’s degree from Trinity University in San Antonio. He currently works as a financial adviser for Edward Jones in historic Downtown Castle Rock. He and wife, Jennifer, have three sons – Tanner, 20, Aidan, 18 and Mac, 16. Address and contact information: 100 N. Wilcox St. Castle Rock, CO 80104 Phone: 720-733-3585 Fax: 303-660-1024 Email address: pdonahue@CRgov.com
YOUR TOWN COUNCIL
Your elected Town Councilmembers set the Town’s strategic direction and make major decisions regarding Town budgets, developments, laws and more. Members generally serve four-year terms and each represents a district of Town. Service on Council is a part-time job – each current member has another primary profession. Contact your representative using the information with his or her profile.
{Unsure which district you
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live in? Visit CRgov.com/votemap.}
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M AYO R P R O T E M – TO W N C O U N C I L D I S T R I C T 3 , R ED H AWK AND PA R T S OF TH E M EA DOWS
Jennifer Green First elected in 2011. Term expires in 2018.
Background: Mayor Pro Tem Green and her family have called Castle Rock home for more than a decade. Jennifer is a Colorado State University graduate, with a bachelor’s degree in human development and family studies. She has worked in the communications industry for more than 15 years and currently manages global offers and contracts. Originally from Tennessee, Jennifer moved to Colorado after being raised in Albuquerque. Jennifer and her family are involved in their church, and they spend much of their free time outdoors, enjoying all that Castle Rock and Colorado have to offer. Address and contact information 100 N. Wilcox St. Castle Rock, CO 80104 Phone: 303-660-1366 Fax: 303-660-1024 Email address: jgreen@CRgov.com
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TOWN COUNCIL DISTRICT 2 THE WOODL ANDS, METZLER RANCH, SAPPHIRE POINTE AND DIAMOND RIDGE
Mark P. Heath First elected in 2012. Term expires in 2016.
Background: Councilman Heath has been a Castle Rock resident since 2006 and lives in Puma Ridge/Sapphire Pointe. He and wife, Julie, own Park Street and Jerry Street Storage, as well as other commercial properties in Town. Prior to joining Council, Mark served for two years as the elected president of the Castle Rock Downtown Merchants Association. He attended the University of Maine prior to establishing himself in Castle Rock. Mark has three children, and he skates on a recreational ice hockey team. The Heath family enjoys camping and skiing and is actively involved in various school and sports activities.
Address and contact information 100 N. Wilcox St. Castle Rock, CO 80104 Phone: 303-660-1396 Fax: 303-660-1024 Email address: mheath@CRgov.com CRgov.com
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TOWN COUNCIL DISTRICT 4 D O W N TO W N C O R E A R E A A N D CASTLE NORTH
Chip Wilson
First elected in 2008. Term expires in 2016.
Background: Councilman Wilson was born and raised in western Massachusetts. He joined the Army after graduating high school in 1985 and moved within the Army to Colorado in 1988. Chip studied military law and served in the United States and abroad, including two years in Germany. He left the Army after the Gulf War. Since then, he’s been working for United Airlines, where he’s currently a manager. He’s lived in Castle Rock since 1995. Chip’s wife, Terry, is a third-generation Castle Rock resident. Terry’s family helped homestead the Town and owned the Ford dealership here from 1940 to 1987. Chip, Terry and their children – Emily and Will – live in Terry’s childhood neighborhood, just outside Craig and Gould. Chip loves golfing, camping and boating. He also enjoys traveling – Aruba and Kauai are among his favorite destinations.
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Address and contact information: 100 N. Wilcox St. Castle Rock, CO 80104 Phone: 303-660-1384 Fax: 303-660-1024 Email address: chipwilson@CRgov.com
TOWN COUNCIL DISTRICT 5 CASTLE OAKS, COBBLESTONE RANCH, ESCAVARA/THE WOODLANDS AND FOUNDERS VILLAGE
Renee Valentine First elected in April 2011. Term expires in 2018.
Background: Councilwoman Valentine and her husband moved from West Chester, Ohio, to Colorado in 2003. One year later, they made the Escavera neighborhood their home.
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Renee worked for Marriott Hotels and Resorts in sales and marketing for 15 years and transferred from Ohio to Colorado with the company. In 2005, she began her career in real estate and is a broker/owner with Keller Williams Real Estate DTC and has her own office in Downtown Castle Rock. Renee graduated from Bowling Green State University with a bachelor’s degree in hotel management.
Aspen View Academy. Renee and her family like to spend their time in the mountains, snowmobiling and boating.
Renee and her husband, Paul, have been married for 20 years and have four children – Jaclyn graduated from Miami University of Ohio. Zack and Luke attend Metropolitan State University of Denver. Leo attends
Address and contact information 100 N. Wilcox St. Castle Rock, CO 80104 Phone: 303-660-1383 Fax: 303-660-1024 Email address: rvalentine@CRgov.com
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TOWN COUNCIL DISTRICT 6 PLUM CREEK, CRYSTAL VALLEY RANCH, THE L ANTERNS AND HECKENDORF RANCH
George Teal
First elected in 2014. Term expires in 2016. Background: Although born in Stamford, Connecticut, and having spent his early childhood in the Kansas City area, Councilman Teal calls Greeley his hometown. George graduated from Greeley Central High School in 1986 and enlisted in the U.S. Army in 1988, as a rifleman. The Army paid his way through college at the University of Northern Colorado, where he earned his bachelor’s degree in history. After college, George returned to active duty, serving as an officer with the Army until 1997. George and his wife moved to Castle Rock in 1998, first settling in The Meadows before moving to their current home in Crystal Valley Ranch in 2007. George has worked as a software project manager and business consultant since 1999 and has run his own software consulting business since 2004. The Teals have two children – a daughter in college in Nebraska and a son in high school. They are active parents in the Dolphins and Cougars youth sports programs. George is an assistant Scoutmaster with Castle Rock Troop 780; an NRA-certified firearms instructor with the
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Boy Scouts shooting sports program; and a member of the Veterans of Foreign Wars and American Legion. He is also active with the Douglas County Republicans. Address and contact information: 100 N. Wilcox St. Castle Rock, CO 80104 Phone: 303-660-1371 Fax: 303-660-1024 Email address: gteal@CRgov.com
TOWN COUNCIL DISTRICT 7 EAST FOUNDERS VILL AGE AND CASTLEWOOD RANCH
Brett Ford
First elected in 2014. Term expires in 2018.
Background Councilman Ford loves living in Colorado, the state he’s called home since 1997. Castle Rock – Castlewood Ranch Estates in particular – has been his family’s home since 2005. Brett grew up in Utah and lived in New Hampshire for a few years before settling here. Brett holds an undergraduate degree from Westminster College in Salt Lake City and an executive MBA from the University of Colorado. He is a 2002 graduate of Leadership Denver and works in financial services. The Fords have three children – Walker, 17, graduated from Castle View High School and joined the Marines; Spencer, 16, is a junior at Castle View; and Morgan, 12, attends Academy Charter School. Brett is a past board member of Colorado Youth at Risk and of the Highlands Ranch Youth Football and DC Dolphins programs. With his family, he enjoys fly fishing, golfing,
riding bikes, boating and anything else outdoors. He and his wife also enjoy Colorado’s scenery while riding Harley-Davidson motorcycles. Address and contact information 100 N. Wilcox St. Castle Rock, CO 80104 Phone: 303-660-1372 Fax: 303-660-1024 Email address: bford@CRgov.com CRgov.com
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Stabilizing stormwater Town works year-round to minimize flood risk
They say if you don’t like the weather in Colorado, wait five minutes. That’s never more apparent than when a rainstorm comes in, and pours a bunch of rain, just before the sun starts shining again. Last September, the rain clouds hung around and caused trouble throughout the state. Fortunately, in Castle Rock, the storms were less severe, and the impacts were less apparent. Thankfully, a lot of those impacts were also minimized due to the Town’s stormwater program. Around Town, pipes and inlets direct stormwater away from homes and businesses. But, what residents may not know is, the creeks and
streams in Town are also part of the flood-control system. There are more than 55 miles of drainageway throughout Town. The Stormwater Division works to manage improvements and maintenance costs and enforces stormwater quality. The division is charged with prioritizing improvements based on necessity, risk to other infrastructure and funding. The Stormwater Division was created in 2002. Since then, one of the division’s biggest challenges has been keeping up with development. The Town went through major growth spurts in the 1980s, 1990s and 2000s. Today, the division must pay careful attention to flood control as the Town continues to evolve, while still making up for the development completed before the division was created. “The natural creeks and streams through Town must adapt to changing conditions to remain healthy,” said Stormwater Manager David Van Dellen, who has more than 15 years of experience.
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“As development continues, more pressure is put on these natural streams to contain the runoff from snow and rain. Without a means to account for these changes, the streams simply unravel.” That’s why the division is focused on improvements. The goal is to slow down the water, stabilize banks to keep them from eroding, minimize flooding in roadways and protect property from damage. Recently, the division completed a $1.1 million project in The Meadows. The project reconstructed about a half mile of drainageway near Running Deer Drive. Last September, that project was put to the test. The heavy rain flowed through the drainageway as designed and protected the homes adjacent to the stream. The Meadows project is a huge success story. Still, there’s a lot more work to be done. The division is about 12 percent complete with the projects outlined in its master plan. “We are working diligently to stabilize the stormwater system throughout Town,” Van Dellen said. “Our focus is to reinforce the drainageway while maintaining the natural habitat, diverse open space and flourishing wildlife residents have come to enjoy.”
H2O Access–Easier access to water bills The weather in Colorado is unpredictable. If another major rain event – like the storms last September – hit Town, there are several things residents should keep in mind to minimize flood risk:
1. U nderstand your surroundings.
Homes in Town are built with drainage in mind. But before tackling a new landscape project, refer to the drainage letter for the property. That letter will show the drainage path on your property. Compromising that drainage path could influence home warranties and insurance policies, and increase your risk of flooding.
2. Be aware of natural drainage systems and the danger they could pose.
Steep banks or unstable ground may exist near streams or waterways. Stay
back from those areas. Never enter moving water and seek higher ground during flooding.
3. Never enter a storm drain.
Keep pollutants, like paint, oil, pesticides, and other chemicals, from entering the stormwater system. Report illegal dumping on the Town’s hotline at 720-733-2235.
4. Have a conversation with your insurance agent.
Flood insurance is available to all property owners and is a separate policy from a standard homeowner’s insurance policy.
IMPROVED WAT E R B I L L
ENHANCED ONLINE CONVENIENCE
3 EASY PHONE ACCESS
Here in Castle Rock, stormwater charges are applied to every Castle Rock Water customer’s bill. In other parts of the state, those charges may be included in residents’ property taxes, or even sent as an annual bill. Locally, the stormwater charges help fund important flood-control projects and maintenance of the more than 140 miles of underground pipe, hundreds of storage facilities and thousands of inlets and structures around Town, which help protect homes and businesses from flooding. The Town’s H2O Access program makes it easy for water customers to view their bills, and make payments. More than 5,000 customers are enrolled in the online program. H2O Access was rolled out at the beginning of the year and helps customers easily understand and manage their water use. The program also enhanced online convenience, with online billing, and even allows customers to access their bills with smartphones. To sign up for the program, or get more information, go to CRgov.com/H2Oaccess.
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READY TO TAKE THE CALL Extensive training makes Castle Rock Fire and Rescue one of the best The call comes in. “911. What’s your emergency?” It could be anything. The fire station alarm rings. It’s go time. Information flows in from dispatch as the responders hurry to the emergency. Whatever they encounter on scene, they will be ready. The Castle Rock Fire and Rescue Department logs more than 15,000 hours of training each year. All staff – from firefighter/EMTs to fire education and office personnel – are highly trained. They prepare for everything – medical calls, house fires, wildland fires, car extrications and rescues. They train for hazardous material spills and natural disasters. “Every situation is different,” said Chief Art Morales. “We have to train for all possibilities.” Take a barn fire, for example. This year, thanks to wet weather and lower fire danger, firefighters could extinguish the one that
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happened earlier in the summer. If the incident had happened in last year’s extreme fire conditions, fire crews may have had to let the barn burn while they worked to prevent a massive wildland fire. That’s the information they take in and use to make split-second, life-saving decisions. “We have to size up every fire. Smoke, wind, temperature and whether people are trapped inside all change the face of a fire,” Morales said. “We have to train for the what-if.” For the past 12 years, firefighters have trained at the Fire Training Tower at 303 Malibu St. The nearly 1-acre site provides for all types of hands-on training such as car extrications and fires. Still, the facility lacks classroom space, and emergency forces are growing to maintain levels of service. As Castle Rock continues to evolve, more emergency-response personnel have joined both the Fire Department and the Castle Rock Police Department, which itself logs about 10,000 hours of training annually.
“ Our vision is to be the best at providing emergency and prevention services. Training helps us get there.” -Chief Art Morales Now, the two entities are working together on a new public safety training facility, with a goal to provide classroom and additional scenario-training space. In the meantime, they will lease additional space at 1335 Park St., allowing them to move ahead with joint training goals. These new facilities will help public safety personnel learn through the training cycle onsite: discuss an incident in a classroom, practice it and evaluate. Then, practice again. “Our training has to become instinct,” Morales said. The ongoing training pays off. Castle Rock Fire and Rescue is one of fewer than 200 departments to earn accreditation through the Commission on Fire Accreditation International, and it is part of a team with Sky Ridge Medical Center that ranks in the top five of 650 chest pain programs nationally. “Our vision is to be the best at providing emergency and prevention services,” Morales said. “Training helps us get there.”
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Swinging into fall
Town-owned golf course offers pristine setting at more affordable price
The sun is shining, the grass is green, and the views are amazing.
The course offers family rates throughout the season. That means a family can play nine holes of golf for roughly the same price as going to the movies. Additionally, nine-hole rates, senior rates and online specials are available all year long.
“Fore!” Summer in Colorado is a great time to get outdoors with the family, and Douglas County has some of the best golf in the country. Here in Castle Rock, we have a great amenity in our own backyard that many residents may not know about. And, while summer is winding down, fall is still a great time to enjoy a game. Red Hawk Ridge Golf Course may be Town-owned, but it isn’t your usual municipal setting. The Town’s golf course prides itself on country club conditions, in a high-end atmosphere, at a more affordable price. The golf course is a separate enterprise, which means it is funded by the users and is not reliant on taxpayer funding. Plus, it’s a golf course for everyone. Depending on the tee you use, this course is playable for the weekend golfer, families and low-handicap players alike. “We’re really proud of what we offer at Red Hawk,” said Head Golf Professional Bob Persichetti. “This is a beautiful setting and a premium destination for golfers.”
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Typically, golfers hang up their clubs sometime around Labor Day, but don’t let that discourage you. Here in Colorado, we’re lucky to have great golfing all the way through the fall season. Plus, it’s even more affordable. Peak prices expire at the end of September. It’s an opportunity residents are lucky to have in the area. “Golf is a great sport. It builds character and teaches integrity and patience,” Persichetti said. “Money and time are two of the biggest barriers for people wanting to play the game. We are working to minimize both those barriers and offer a great place for residents to spend time as a family.”
Red Hawk is a great service for the community. Course professionals work hard to accommodate every kind of golfer. The SNAG program, Starting New at Golf, introduces kids to the game with oversized, colorful clubs and larger-sized balls that are easier to hit. There are also junior golf camps, ladies novice leagues, senior leagues, and men’s and ladies’ clubs. The course also sponsors both local high school golf teams free of charge and hosts corporate and charity tournaments. “This is a busy place. We try to push the envelope,” said Persichetti. “Our goal is to keep making the course better for residents and golfers.” For more information, head to redhawkridge.com. Red Hawk Ridge Golf Course 2156 Red Hawk Ridge Drive Open daily 6 a.m. to dark 720-733-3500
Clubhouse Grill - Fall/winter hours will vary. Please call 720-733-3507 for more information. No. 7 Best New Affordable Golf Course in the Nation – Golf Digest Magazine 1999 No. 19 America’s 30 Best Municipals – Golfweek Magazine 1999 No. 3 Colorado High End Public Golf Course – Colorado Golfer Magazine 2000 Top 100 Public Golf Courses – Golf Digest 2001, 2002 Top 50 Public Golf Courses – Senior Golfer Magazine 2001
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Look around, and you’ll notice how the design of a building helps define our community. Even as Castle Rock continues to grow, we focus on maintaining our small-town character. Each year, the Town’s Site Design Awards honor unique projects that help preserve Castle Rock’s appeal. A team of representatives from the development community and the Town’s Planning Commission worked with Town staff to create a list of nominees for these awards. Then, the team reviewed the nominees to determine recommended winners. Planning Commission recommended approval of that list, and Town Council confirmed those winners earlier this year. These honorees each received plaques in these categories: Large Commercial – Castle Rock Adventist Hospital building, 2350 Meadows Blvd. Judges said this building represents a unique and powerful architectural statement. The materials used are native to Colorado, and the building’s interior is designed to give patients and visitors a one-of-a-kind view of the Front Range.
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Small Commercial – Azura Memory Care of Castle Rock, 864 Barranca Drive This building was designed to be visually separated from nearby commercial and residential property, judges said. Outdoor gardens, seating areas and privacy areas are mixed into the design to provide comfortable gathering places. Historic Preservation – Old Stone Church Restaurant, 210 Third St. Rhyolite is foundational to Castle Rock’s unique history. This design and careful building maintenance, judges said, represents preservation of this piece of Castle Rock’s heritage.
2014
Town Site Design Award Winners
Environmental – Castle Rock Adventist Hospital Garden of Eatin’, 2350 Meadows Blvd. Judges said the Garden of Eatin’ provides environmental and health education opportunities through its hands-on approach. The garden introduces fresh produce and plants, along with a sense of community. Commercial Remodel – formerly the Lux Creative Building, 19 N. Wilcox St. This project earned a Downtown Development Authority facade grant, and designers used it well, judges said. The design represents an excellent use of old and new construction techniques to significantly upgrade the entire building façade and enhance the streetscape view. Downtown Project – Rink at the Rock/White Pavilion, 414 Perry St. This physical improvement to a previously vacant lot creates a unique community gathering place throughout the year. It enhances the social aspects of Downtown Castle Rock and attracts visitors from throughout Town and the metro area.
Community Character/Sense of Place – Veterans Monument Plaza, Fourth and Wilcox streets This monument honors veterans and creates a community gathering place. It enhances the goals of the Downtown Development Authority and Downtown Merchants Association, because its honorable tribute brings residents and visitors Downtown. Public Facility – Wrangler Park, 2418 Autumn Sage St. Castle Rock is also hallmarked by the ranching industry. Wrangler Park pays tribute to this part of the Town’s history. Judges said the Western theme and special play features add interest to the area and create opportunities for both local and regional activities. Learn more about current and past Design Awards honorees at CRgov.com/design.
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It’s the final countdown Town’s momentous park nears grand opening The building is almost done, the landscaping is going in, and the finishing touches are being made. Philip S. Miller Park will open late this fall.
You’ve probably seen the large building going up at the front of the new park. It’s almost complete, except for one detail: a name. The Town needs your help.
Miller Park is the largest park project in the Town’s history and will provide a new variety of amenities for residents. It’s been under construction in The Meadows for more than a year, and now the park is set to open. Look for grand opening information in the next few months.
Miller Park is named for late philanthropist and banker Philip S. Miller. The Town is one of several recipients of trust monies Miller and his wife, Jerry, left in the mid-1990s. The couple valued youth and youth activities, and the Town sought to honor that legacy with this new park.
Along with 6 miles of natural-surface trails; an outdoor, lighted synthetic-turf field; an outdoor adventure playground; and a challenge staircase, the park will also feature a unique new facility.
Help leave a legacy of your own by providing ideas for naming the new facility. Visit CRgov.com/PSMpark and provide your comments using an online survey, or vote to support others’ ideas. The top ideas will be shared with Town Council, which will decide on the final name.
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Wha t’s i n
a nam e?
Shar CRg e your id ov.co m/P eas! SMp ark
Parks and Recreation staff are still working on schedules for the classes that will be hosted there, but among the amenities the center will offer are an aquatic center with a leisure pool, four-lane lap area and a vortex whirlpool; a children’s play area and climbing structure; a trampoline room; drop-down batting cages; an 18-hole golf simulator; and one full-sized, and an additional half-sized, indoor turf field. The indoor fields will be a great place to host various sporting events, practices and fitness boot camp classes. Passes will go on sale soon. Keep in mind, this is a separate admission pass from the Town’s Recreation Center. Both facilities offer a great, and unique, place to spend time with the family. Details for the grand opening will be available shortly, but the center is already accepting reservations for the fields, as well as the birthday facilities. For more information, head to CRgov.com/PSMPark or check out the other side of this publication, the Recreation Guide, for a preview of amenities and pricing.
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PATROLLING IN NEW WAYS
Castle Rock police better the Town with community policing
Keeping the community safe is undoubtedly Castle Rock Police’s No. 1 goal. Residents expect a high level of service from the local police department, and officers want to keep Castle Rock’s status as one of the safest communities in the country. But, it’s not all about catching the bad guys and sending people to jail. Residents might be surprised to learn all the things police do to ensure the Town stays safe. Community policing is an important element in the Castle Rock Police Department. It became a priority when Police Chief Jack Cauley joined the team back in 2012. The chief knows community policing is a key to keeping the Town safe and ensuring residents know the Police Department has an interest in the quality of life in Castle Rock. “Community policing enables officers to work to solve community problems,” Cauley said. “The community police officers have the ability to spend time resolving long-term issues to improve the quality life in the Town.” 22
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Although all of the 65 Castle Rock police officers practice community policing strategies, the Town is fortunate to have two officers, Seth Morrissey and Kevin Torrens, who specifically focus on community policing. The goal is to manage repeat calls and have a positive interaction with the community. “We have the ability to spend time with residents working on a solution to a problem,” Torrens said. “If we can fix the problem, we can keep police resources focused on other aspects of Town.” Crime Prevention Through Environmental Design is a tool for community policing. The idea is to deter criminal behavior by altering the physical design of a community. Two innovative programs our community policing officers are working on are Crime Free Multi Housing and Art Around the Rock. Crime Free Multi Housing is the brainchild of Officer Torrens. Torrens works with apartment managers around Castle Rock to teach them how to handle situations in their community.
For example: landscape, lighting or security concerns; how to write leases to accommodate for noise and drug-use violations; and how to screen applicants to make sure they get the best residents possible. Torrens said the training helps empower apartment managers and makes for better communities. “More than 5,000 people in Castle Rock live in an apartment community,” Torrens said. “We can reach almost 10 percent of the Town through this program. That makes a big difference.” As for Officer Morrissey, Art Around the Rock is the initiative on which he has put his stamp. With the help of Parks and Recreation maintenance crews, the program’s goal is to paint murals on the Town’s trail bridge underpasses to help make a more welcoming trail system and deter graffiti. This year, the program is set to complete murals on 12 bridges, and that is just the beginning. Morrissey has a plan for more
CASTLE ROCK COMMUNITY POLICING PROGRAMS INCLUDE:
free hot dogs and refreshments, and a chance to see police and fire vehicles.
COFFEE WITH A COP
CITIZEN POLICE ACADEMY
Tuesday, Aug. 12, 10-11 a.m. B&B Cafe, 322 N. Wilcox St.
Learn what it’s like to be a police officer in Castle Rock. Residents can gain a better understanding of what officers go through in this 10-week, hands-on training course. Dates for the 2015 academy will be posted at CRgov.com/academy.
Tuesday, Sept. 16, 10-11 a.m. Einstein Bros. Bagels, 3993 Limelight Ave. Tuesday, Oct. 14, 10-11 a.m. Castle Rock Senior Center, 2323 Woodlands Blvd. Tuesday, Nov. 18, 10-11 a.m. Lost Coffee, 3980 Limelight Ave. NATIONAL NIGHT OUT Learn about the Town’s public safety program and meet police officers and firefighters in this national crime-prevention campaign. This annual event takes place every August and this year includes a K-9 demonstration,
COPS CAMP Youth ages 13 to 17 get the opportunity to learn how to challenge, overcome, persevere and succeed in this four-day experience. Attendees participate in a range of activities, including rock climbing and rappelling, that focus on developing teamwork and leadership skills. The 2014 program is complete. Please check for 2015 dates at CRgov.com/copscamp.
in the future. He said the murals have made a huge impact in the community. “We have an extensive trail system in Castle Rock,” said Morrissey. “We are taking the underpasses and making them into a destination location along the trail. What was an eyesore is now a great place to spend time as a family.” Local businesses donated all the painting supplies, and, so far, more than three dozen volunteers have contributed about 420 hours to the project. One of the artists is Castle Rock Police Officer Renee Tremaine, who painted a mural on a bridge underpass near Douglas County High School. Programs like this are just the beginning. Community events, Coffee with a Cop, National Night Out and the Citizen Police Academy are a few more of the ways community policing is working to bring the Town together. These initiatives are just one example of why Castle Rock is such a great place to live. CRgov.com 23
Fall into Downtown
Summertime in Castle Rock is characterized by outdoor movies and concerts, Downtown events, and swimming at outdoor pools. But the fun doesn’t stop just because the weather starts to cool off.
Halloween fun and fright wraps up the fall season. Castle Rock Fire and Rescue will host its annual Castle of Terror at the Fire Training Center, 303 Malibu St. The haunted house scares for four days: Oct. 17, 18, 24 and 25. It’s open from 7 to 10 p.m.
Fall is another great time to be Downtown. Besides shopping at Downtown’s one-of-a-kind shops or taking in local fare, the Downtown event series is still in full swing.
For children, the Castle Rock Parks and Recreation Department’s Spooktacular will be from 1 to 3 p.m. Saturday, Oct. 25. The Town of Castle Rock and the Downtown Alliance partner for Trick or Treat Street, which will be from 2 to 5 p.m. on Halloween at Festival Park.
The final Starlight Summer Movie, sponsored by the Downtown Merchants Association, is The Lego Movie on Saturday, Sept. 6. Oktoberfest is Saturday, Oct. 4, and the Farmers Market is open through that first weekend in October at Third and Elbert streets. The 122nd annual Douglas County Fair runs Aug. 7-10. The parade steps off at 9 a.m. on Saturday, Aug. 9. It runs throughout Downtown Castle Rock, and the more than 100 entries include floats, bands and more.
So, no matter your age, or what time of year it is, Downtown Castle Rock is the place to be. Learn more at DowntownCastleRock.com. Or, view a full calendar of events throughout Town at CRgov.com/events.
DOWNTOWN DINING
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Castle Rock
The Castle Rock Museum was originally Castle Rock’s first train depot.
Walk through local history
Did you know that the Castle Rock Museum was originally Castle Rock’s first train depot, or that the discovery of rhyolite stone was what truly put Castle Rock on the map back in the 1800s? There’s a lot to uncover about Castle Rock’s rich history, and the Castle Rock Historical Society and Museum is using some of today’s technology to take people back in time. The society has installed 20 historical markers throughout Downtown Castle Rock. Within each marker is a stainless steel medallion with a QR code, so residents and visitors can use readers on their phones to learn more about each historic landmark by scanning the code. The QR code tour starts at the museum, 420 Elbert St. Other stops include the Chamber of Commerce, Augustine Grill, 1 Stop Tire and Auto, The Barn, the B&B Café and more. View the map at castlerockmuseum.org. This project, called “Then and Now – Holding History in Your Hand,” is sponsored by the society and the Town of Castle Rock Historic Preservation Board.
CANOPY LIGHTS
CAR SHOW
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NEW PROJECTS BUILD NEW JOBS AND ADDITIONAL OPPORTUNITIES Castle Rock was founded on ranching, rhyolite and the railroad, and a new development is using that history as inspiration for its design.
The new Acme Water Tower Center is under construction near the Front Street flyover bridge. It includes a Windmill Building with a public restroom facility and three other buildings: the Water Tower, the Conductor Building, and the Depot Building. Each of these three buildings is designed to include space for shops, offices and restaurants, bringing new amenities to Downtown. The project is expected to be completed this year. As the economy improves, the Acme Water Tower Center is not the only project coming to Castle Rock. More office space is headed to Town, meaning Castle Rock can keep and gain jobs. The Move is a proposed 50,000-square-foot, four-story office building and parking garage on the southeast corner of Sixth and Jerry streets. It will house some of Castle Rock’s fastest-growing technology companies. The Town is helping finance this project with a $900,000 low-interest loan, because the project will help keep jobs and provide nearly 75 parking spaces for Downtown shopping and events when not used by employees during the work hours. On the other end of Town, new office space is also going vertical and will soon be the home of Hudick Excavation. In the same area, there are plans to add other businesses and dining. This new area is referred to as Montaña Vista, and is across from the Shoppes at Castle Rock, where businesses such as Michaels and Sprouts are located.
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Whether it is because employees of the new businesses are eating and shopping here, or because the business itself collects sales tax on the Town’s behalf, these new businesses help maintain the Town’s levels of service, which are funded mostly through sales tax, rather than property tax.
On average, the owner of a $300,000 home in Castle Rock pays just $40 in property tax to the Town. The sales tax revenue is used to maintain roads, trails, parks and open space for residents and visitors alike to enjoy.