Courier View Pikes Peak 11.20.13
Pikes Peak
Teller County, Colorado • Volume 52, Issue 47
November 20, 2013
75 cents
A Colorado Community Media Publication
ourtellercountynews.com
Republicans announce candidacies
Four Republicans announced their candidacies for county offices Nov. 12 at the meeting of Teller County Republicans. Two are incumbents, one took over the office after the resignation of her boss, and the fourth is new to the political arena.
Bob Campbell is going for a second term as the Teller County treasurer and public trustee.
Krystal Brown, a Republican, announced her candidacy for the office of Teller County Clerk & Recorder.
Teller County Sheriff Mike Ensminger is seeking a second term in the election of Nov. 2014.
Violet Watt announced her candidacy Nov. 12 to Teller County Republicans for the office of assessor.
City breaks ground on Trail Ridge DDA project takes off By Pat Hill
phill@ourcoloradonews.com A grand vision by the Downtown Development Authority culminated in a groundbreaking ceremony Nov. 13 that officially launched the construction of Trail Ridge at Woodland Park. A 168-unit apartment complex, the project is a first for Woodland Park, with amenities such as a clubhouse, health club, cyber lounge, outdoor fireside lounge and a car care center. “When I got here 10 years ago, the thing that always came up was housing. We were always trying to figure out how we could make this happen,” said Dale Schnitker, chairman of the Downtown Development Authority. On nine acres, the complex at 311 E. Sheridan Ave. is the result of $1.2 million tax-increment financing agreement between Woodland Park Associates and the DDA. “I remember Eric coming to me many years ago to talk about this project,” Schnitker said, referring to Eric Smith, who spearheaded the project for the associates. The project is significant in that it replaces an empty lot in the heart of the city. “You need to have seen this before we started. This is nine acres but it was not a pretty piece of ground,” Schnitker said. “The greatest thing about this is that we not only take care of some of the housing issues but we’re also going to improve this property beyond belief.” Schnitker concluded with a request. “When people ask you about this project, be very positive, stand behind it,” he said. “This is something we’ve wanted for a long time. We’ve moved ahead and made it happen and I think that’s the best part of what the DDA started out to do.” Tim Ridner, who represented the development company, Cedarwood, flew in from Florida the night before. “This gives me the opportunity to break out a wool suit,” Ridner said. Doubtful at first whether the project would be feasible, Ridner cited the collaboration among the city council, the DDA and the “can-do attitude” of city staff for ensuring Cedarwood’s commitment. “Without this, the project would never have happened,” he said. David Buttery, city manager, spoke on behalf of Mayor Dave Turley and city officials. “We’re very excited, Tim, that Cedar-
A major project of the Downtown Development Authority, Trail Ridge at Woodland Park is scheduled to open in July. The city celebrated the groundbreaking Nov. 13 on a beautiful day in Woodland Park. Pictured with the shovels are from left, Brian Fleer, Dale Schnitker, Tim Ridner, David Buttery and Sally Riley. Photos by Pat HIll
‘When people ask you about this project, be very positive, stand behind it.’ Dale Schnitker wood decided to build a beautiful project here,” Buttery said. “The reputation of your company precedes you. We’re glad you chose Woodland Park to build this wonderful apartment complex.” After the ceremony, Ridner hosted a luncheon for city officials, members of the DDA, and site superintendent for Tri-C Construction, Mike Juencke, at the Swiss Chalet.
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A great day for a groundbreaking for the much-anticipated Trail Ridge at Woodland Park. Pictured with the golden shovels are: from left, Brian Fleer, executive director of the Office of Economic and Downtown Development; Dale Schnitker, chairman of the DDA; Tim Ridner, who represents Cedarwood Development, David Buttery, city manager; and Sally Riley, the city’s planning director.