OCN Our Community News
Volunteers reporting on community issues in Monument, Palmer Lake, and the surrounding Tri-Lakes area
Issue #284 — Volume 24 Number
Palmer Lake Pumpkin Patch fundraiser, Oct. 20
Audio is posted for
Local Events
Readers should assume that event information published in this issue is subject to change and information should be confirmed a day or two before the event by calling the information number or checking the organization’s website. See page 22 and page 23 for event locations and other details of these and many other local events.
• OCN mailing day, Thu., Dec. 5, approx. 7-8:30 am.
• Downtown Monument Shop Local events: Holiday Open House Nov. 2, 11-4 pm, Black Friday Nov. 29, 10-5 pm; Small Business Saturday Nov. 30, 1-5 pm. Small Town Christmas, Sat Dec. 7, 10 - 4 pm; Sunday with Santa, Sun., Dec. 15, 11-4 pm. See ad on page 2.
• Monument Homemakers,bring a dish to share and your own table service, Thu. Nov. 7, noon.
• Palmer Lake Historical Society, Thu., Nov. 21, 7 pm.
• Tri-Lakes Women’s Club Joys of the Season Holiday Home Tour, Fri.-Sat., Nov. 22-23, 10-4 pm. See ad on page 3
• Christmas with Bing by Eric Elison, Sat., Nov. 23, 2-4 pm, Sat., Dec. 14, 7-9 pm. See ad on page 4
• WMMI STEAM Camp, Tue., Nov. 26. See ad on page 12
• YMCA 5K race series Turkey trot, Thu., Nov. 28, Jingle Jog, Sat., Dec. 14. See ad on page 6.
• Alpaca Holiday Extravaganza, Sat.-Sun., Nov. 30-Dec. 1 Black Forest Community Club. See ad on page 11.
• Thrivent Financial Advisors workshop on taxes and retirement, Thu., Dec. 5, 6 p.m. See ad on page 6
• Kiwanis North Pole at TriLakes Craft Show, Sat., Dec., 7, 9-4 pm. See ad on page 10.
Palmer Lake Board of Trustees, Oct. 10 and 24
Board begins “flagpole annexation” process for Buc’ees travel center on I-25
By James Howald and Jackie Burhans
The Palmer Lake Board of Trustees set a date for a public hearing on a set of six requests to annex portions of County Line Road and land just east of I-25 at which a Buc’ees travel center would be located. Town Administrator Dawn Collins presented a proposed budget for 2025, and the board set a date for a public hearing on it. The board authorized the demolition of six cabins on the Elephant Rock property. The town’s code regulating outdoor burning was amended.
Town Attorney Scott Krob summed up recent changes to state law and case law that might affect Palmer Lake. In her administrative report, Collins introduced the town’s newly hired parks maintenance technician and code compliance officer and discussed flooding at the police station. The board heard a petition from residents concerning excessive noise from a house in Red Rocks
Ranch owned by developer Matt Dunston. The Oct.10 meeting included an executive session after which the board voted to sign a disconnect for the United Congregational Church.
Proposed travel center requires “flagpole annexation” In the packet materials for the Oct. 24 board meeting, Collins documented the receipt of six requests to annex property east of the town, including the south half of County Line Road and two parcels just east of I-25. She outlined the town’s obligations when requests for annexation are received: The clerk must bring the requests to the board at its next meeting, and the board must set a date for a public hearing to determine if the requests meet the legal requirements for annexation. She emphasized that the resolution before the board was only to set a hearing date and not to de-
cide whether the annexation was legal or in the best interests of the town. This would be considered a “flagpole annexation,” which refers to a practice where a municipality acquires new territory that is connected to an existing territory by a thin strip of land. The strip of land resembles a flagpole. At the Oct. 24 meeting, Mayor Glant Havenar introduced Resolution 52-2024, which sets Dec. 12 as the date for the annexation eligibility hearing. She said the resolution was only procedural.
Trustees Shana Ball, Kevin Dreher, Nick Ehrhardt, Jessica Farr, and Dennis Stern voted in favor of the resolution, along with Havenar. Trustee Samantha Padgett voted no.
Buc’ees currently operates one travel center in Colorado, a 74,000-squarefoot building in Johnstown with 116 fuel pumps and 275 staff members.
Black Forest Fire/Rescue Protection District, Oct. 16
Deputy Chief resigns; board addresses handling of personnel matters; multiple issues require attention
Palmer Lake News 1-4
Fire District News 1, 4-9
Monument News 10-11
D38 News 12-15
Water & San District News 15-17
County News 17-18
WIA News 18
Weather 18
Letters and Columns 18-20
Snapshots 20-21
Notices and Calendar 22-23
OCN Information 1, 23-24
By
Natalie Barszcz
At the Black Forest Fire Rescue Protection District (BFFRPD) Board of Directors meeting on Oct. 16, Chairman Nate Dowden addressed public inquiries regarding employee matters and the release of information regarding them in the recent investigations into three members of the executive staff.
The agenda was amended to move into executive session before the regular meeting agenda resumed. The executive session topic of discussion was abbreviated to the hiring of a permanent fire chief, due to the letter of resignation received from Deputy Chief of Operations Chris Piepenburg.
The board discussed establishing the qualifications needed before the fire chief hiring process begins, received a request to reinstate the health insurance opt out before accepting the 2025 budget, heard the training grounds would
not be in compliance for the Pikes Peak State College (PPSC) fire academy, and the 1979 aerial ladder truck requires repairs to pass a safety inspection. Director James Abendschan attended via Zoom.
Board addresses public questions
Dowden provided clarification on several questions received from the public regarding the investigations into three members of the executive staff and said the board strives to maintain a high degree of employee confidentiality regarding personnel matters and investigations, however, news media uses minutes from the board meetings and obtains information through Colorado Open Records Act requests and various other means, and the board cannot control the news media. Addressing the questions received by the public, he
said: • On Oct. 10, at 5 p.m., former fire chief PJ Langmaid was fully separated from the district and is no longer an employee of the district.
• The board can only act on information provided by investigators on the investigations authorized by the board.
• The board was informed that the third-party investigation report involving Piepenburg would be available Oct. 16, and the board added an agenda item to the executive session.
• However, the board received an email from Piepenburg announcing his decision to resign from the district with immediate effect that morning, and the additional agenda item would not be needed.
Above: Monument Lake Snake. See photo on page 21. Photo by Michael Weinfeld.
Above: On Sunday, Oct. 20, the Town of Palmer Lake held a pumpkin patch festival on the Village Green in front of the Town Hall. Many enjoyed the fundraising event that included choosing pumpkins from the lawn, painting pumpkins, and other festive booths. Donations from the event will help to support more family events, including holiday trees, the star lighting, and other annual festivities. Inside the Town Hall, the Funky Little Theater Company was preparing for its Sleepy Hollow theater presentation set for the last weekend in October. Photo by Janet Sellers.
PALMER LAKE (Cont. on 2)
Read, download, search, and listen to OCN content at our
Proposed 2025 budget presented Collins said the draft budget “has a bit of everything,” and she expected objectives and priorities to be made “to bring this to balance.” The board voted unanimously to hold a public hearing on the budget at its Nov. 14 board meeting. The draft budget is available on the town website here: https://www.
townofpalmerlake.com/media/16056.
Contract to demolish cabins awarded
At the Oct. 10 meeting, Collins reviewed the recent decisions regarding the six cabins on the Elephant Rock property. She said that last fall the board had asked for quotes to demolish the cabins and had set a maximum of $70,000 for the work. The demolition permit from the state required an asbestos report, which revealed the presence of asbes-
tos. The asbestos was abated, she said, and the Fire Department planned to use the cabins for seven days of training. Three companies bid on the demolition work with bids ranging from $75,000 to $79,350. Collins recommended accepting the bid from West Fork Construction, which was the lowest of the three.
Trustees Dreher, Ehrhardt, Farr and Stern, along with Havenar, voted to award the demolition contract to West Fork Construction. Ball and Padgett voted no.
Chief reviews fire mitigation
At the Oct. 24 meeting, Palmer Lake Fire Chief John Vincent gave the board a presentation on fire mitigation on personal property. He reviewed the Hayman, Waldo and Black Forest fires and
discussed the controlled burns currently going on at the town’s Elephant Rock property. He said there was a science and an art to controlled burns; they are more than just bonfires. Vincent listed the three ways fire threatens a home: direct flame contact, radiated heat, and flying embers. Embers were the most dangerous to homes in Palmer Lake, he said. Vincent emphasized the importance of defensible space around homes and recommended clearing pine needles from the sides of houses. Wooden fences can act as fuses, bringing fire to homes. He recommended keeping 15 feet of open space around homes and being conscious of ladder fuels that let fire move into the tops of pines trees. He recommended using
xeriscaping methods, planting native plants and shrubs, and working with neighbors to cre ate defensible spaces. Regulation of outdoor burning loosened At the Oct. 10 meeting, Vincent asked the board to consider a Quality RV Repair! (719) 487-9119 service@turbosrv.com
Awnings,
To
download, search, and
draft ordinance to amend the town code to allow residents to burn small fuels on their property in a burn barrel if they obtain a $25 permit to do so. This would be easier than bringing the material to the town’s dropoff sites for slash at the Elephant Rock property and the dirt bike track.
At the Oct. 24 meeting, the board voted unanimously in favor of Ordinance 18-2024, which amends the town’s code as Vincent recommended.
Legislative and case law update Krob gave the board a wide-ranging summary of new laws passed in the last legislative session and changes to case law that could impact the town or guide the board’s decisions on policy. The legislative portion of his presentation covered:
• Accessory dwelling units.
• Limitations on parking requirements
• Use of artificial turf and native grasses.
• A requirement that metropolitan districts have due process in front of an impartial tribunal.
• Accessibility of websites.
• Prohibitions on cell phone use while driving.
• Lane splitting by motorcycles.
• Possession of hallucinogenic mushrooms.
Regarding case law, Krob explained:
• Changes to laws regarding “takings” and impact fees.
• Enforceability of camping bans.
• Social media use by public officials.
• Criticism of public officials by public employees.
• Governmental immunity from dangerous conditions created by maintenance.
• Improper water line marking.
• Use of service animals.
• Open meeting laws.
• Use of initiatives to contest zoning decisions.
Administrative report
In her administrative report, Collins introduced two newly hired employees: Carson Wolla, parks maintenance technician, and Jennifer Wilde, code compliance officer. Wilde was sworn in at the Oct. 24 meeting. Residents ask for enforcement of noise ordinance
Twenty-five residents signed a petition asking the town to enforce its ordinance regarding amplified sound coming from a property at 4440 Red Rock Ranch Drive owned by developer Matt Dunston. The signers said
• It is understandable that everyone wants more information, but nobody wants confidential information bandied about. The board tries to provide as much information as possible without violating Colorado employee law.
• The third-party investigation reports are retained by legal counsel and will remain confidential under attorney-client privilege.
• The investigation into Capt. Michael Torres is still ongoing and no further updates are available.
• Some scheduling issues with staff deployments are delaying the investigator to schedule interviews and report expeditiously, but the objective is to see all matters resolved and the investigations closed.
Note: At the Aug. 21 board meeting, the board approved a second investigation into the allegations brought against Piepenburg and Torres during the initial investigation into allegations made against Langmaid. Torres remains on paid administrative leave. See https://wp.ocn.me/v24n10bffrpd/.
Interim fire chief selection
Dowden addressed the reason behind the board’s selection of Interim Fire Chief Josh Bartlett, a battalion chief with Colorado Springs Fire Department (CSFD). The driving factor that influenced the board decision was Bartlett’s stellar credentials. He possesses all the appropriate fire officer certifications recognized by the
the property was being used as a short-term rental. They had attempted to resolve the issue with Dunston, but the disturbances have persisted, they said.
Executive sessions
The Oct. 10 board meeting was preceded by an executive session to determine positions regarding a possible annexation and a resolution to litigation filed by the United Congregational Church. The executive session reconvened following the board meeting, and the board voted unanimously in favor of a motion to authorize the town attorney to sign a disconnect for the United Congregational Church.
************
The next regular board meeting is scheduled for Nov. 14. The Nov. 28 meeting has been canceled to accommodate the Thanksgiving holiday. Meetings are held at the Town Hall. See the town’s website at www.townofpalmerlake.com to confirm times and dates of board meetings and workshops. Meetings are typically held on the second and fourth Thursdays of the month at the Town Hall. Information: 719-481-2953. James Howald can be reached at jameshowald@ocn.me. Jackie Burhans can be reached at jackieburhans@ocn.me.
Colorado Department of Fire Prevention and Control and the Colorado Metropolitan Certification Board. His career, background, and experience as captain of the HR Division of CSFD made him the ideal candidate to step in, providing an unbiased, non-partisan view to help the department identify what went wrong, and get us back on track, Dowden said.
Indemnification for interim fire chief position
Dowden requested the board approve Resolution 202406 to provide Bartlett, as interim fire chief, with the appropriate indemnification coverage that the district would provide to any permanent fire chief.
The board unanimously adopted Resolution 202406 as presented in a document provided by legal counsel.
Permanent fire chief search
Dowden said Bartlett is fully in power in accordance with the district bylaws in an interim appointment, but the district will be soliciting applicants for the permanent fire chief position. He said district counsel Linda Glesne advised the board to discuss the qualifications and criteria for the fire chief position before conducting a search. The board needs to make absolutely clear the expectations for a suitable candidate before advertising the position. The district had a job posting sample about five years ago, and the hiring will be an open-application process, with specific qualifications to meet the criteria, Dowden said. Glesne has suggested the board be the hiring committee or contract with a search company to find a fire chief before the board makes a selection, he said.
Bartlett said as the board conducts the search it needs to understand that most chiefs are not working a fire line, they don’t need reciprocity but should have multiple years of officer/command level experience, Fire Officer 1-3 certifications, National Command level certifications, bachelor’s and master’s degrees, and the equivalency of running an organization. The pay has changed dramatically. For example, South Metro Fire Rescue is advertising $350,000 for a fire chief position, and the Monument Fire District (MFD) position pays about $185,000 (including benefits). The housing market in Colorado Springs is one of the most expensive in the nation and may require a candidate to
move from out of state.
Vice Chair Kiersten Tarvainen suggested the district research similar departments of the same size in the state to understand what the district needs and wants in the next fire chief.
Bartlett said the district needs to explore the budget, the revenue sources, and the exclusion of properties. MFD will be fully merged Dec. 31, and the district could explore the possibility of a unified fire authority or a contract for services with another department. A merger would likely impact the mill levy and would require voter approval, but all avenues should be explored to ensure the level of service to the customers is maintained, he said.
Dowden said the district has the ability to move forward, and he suggested the board form a committee to work with the chief to formulate a job description, with a work session on Nov. 2 from 10 a.m.-2 p.m.
Agenda modified
The board unanimously approved a modified agenda, deleting the second part of the executive session discussion relating to personnel matters and the thirdparty investigation involving Piepenburg. The board promptly moved into executive session before continuing the regular meeting.
Executive session
The board moved into executive session at 7:22 p.m. on Oct. 16, pursuant to Colorado Revised Statute 24-6402(4)(b), to receive legal advice regarding personnel matters that have been subject to investigations. The personnel matters that involved Piepenburg under 246-402(4)(f), were not discussed.
Dowden said the timeline for the conclusion of the investigation was unknown, but should the investigation conclude before the Nov. 20 regular meeting, the board may deem it appropriate to schedule a special meeting.
2025 budget in progress
Bartlett said the district staff is diligently working through the proposed 2025 budget that is a working document and about 60%-70 % complete. Clarification is still needed from the assessor’s office, and the company officers are deciding on the needs versus wants, and what the district can afford, to provide the correct numbers. He presented a working document to the board and noted he was told he would not be dealing with the budget and two months later he is, and it’s a large uptake. The district puts together a very good document, but he will not call it a zero-based budget because he grew up in a business world where you have to prove everything is needed, and the budget forecasts what the district thinks it needs, and that is not zero-based, my vernacular is different, he said. See https://wp.ocn.me/v24n1bffrpd/.
Hinton said the district does not know what the backfill (money from the state) will be for 2025 after the passing of the new property tax laws. The Special District Association expects the backfill to be the same as for 2024.
The district received just over $100,000 in additional backfill from the state in 2024 for a total of $477,876. See https://wp.ocn.me/24n7bffrpd/.
Bartlett said the district will not spend the money the former chief spent on Echelon Front training and videos. Training will be focused on individual career development, and the district will also focus on finding sustainable revenue sources.
Pay scale unclear Bartlett questioned the wage schedule of the hired rate versus tenure, experience, and certifications. If we brought someone on at a lateral wage, but they
had multiple years of experience and the credentials to prove certifications, and they qualify for a higher rank, they should be able to receive higher rates of pay, Bartlett said. But the wage scale stipulates every block of time has to be filled before achieving higher pay, he said.
Dowden said the opposite could occur if someone is brought in at a higher pay grade but did not meet the criteria for the pay grade, that becomes a benchmark from how they move forward.
Bartlett said Langmaid was not detailed across the board when he brought staff on and made offer letters, but the district should change that, follow procedure, exempt the existing staff, and clear up the discrepancy with offers moving forward.
District receives grant
A/Captain Michael Alverado said the district was awarded a Federal Emergency Management Agency Assistance to Firefighters Grant on July 8 for a total of $198,400 (includes district contribution). The grant stipulates the district must contribute funds equal to, or greater than 10% of the grant awarded. Alverado requested the board approve about $18,036 for the funding of 19 sets of Self-Contained Breathing Apparatus units, harness backpacks, face pieces, and two cylinders for each line member, in addition to base pieces for a total of 33 pieces for each line member.
The board unanimously approved the district’s contribution for the proposed equipment purchase from the 2024 budget.
2024 wage and leave schedule health insurance differential
Dowden said that historically, if a member of the Fire Department has other benefits via a spouse, the member can opt out of departmental health coverage and
receive a compensatory amount in lieu of it.
Lt. Brandon Jones, attending via Zoom, requested the board consider reinstating the health insurance differential after it had been removed from the 2024 budget before approval on Dec. 28, 2023, and he said:
• Annually the compensatory amount is about $3,797 but the cost savings for the department for a typically annual payment is $8,685 per individual with medical, dental, and vision.
• If an individual opts out of health insurance, the department saves $4,888 per individual.
• Half of the department staff is married or getting close to it or has the opportunity to opt out of the district health plan.
• The previous administration arbitrarily made the decision to remove the option from the wage and leave schedule after it had been used in 202223, to crush dissent and based on ideas such as federal law and the Affordable Care Act, stating noncompliance, liability to the department, and a burden to payroll staffers.
• If it is a win-win financially for the department and staff members, it defies common sense not to include the option.
• He requested the board reinstate the opportunity to allow multiple staff members to switch to spousal health plans before the open enrollment window closed.
Dowden said that when the board accepted the 2024 budget, it was included in the wage and leave schedule in the October 2023 presentation of the proposed 2024 budget. When it was finally presented for approval on Dec. 28, the wage and leave schedule had been modified and the opt out and health insurance differential had been removed, but he could not recall how or why they were removed. He noted the board meeting minutes did not mention the action and he wondered if the tapes were still available from that time frame.
The board promptly received from Jones the email staff members received from Langmaid in 2023. The email informed staff of the reasons for removing the opt out of department health insurance line item.
Bartlett said that if Langmaid made the decision without discussing the action with the board, the staff
Happy Thanksgiving!
Ridgeview Baptist Church Sun. 10:30 am—All are welcome! Temporarily meeting at 9130 Explorer Dr. , C.S. 80920 (Homewood Suites) 719-357-6515 ridgeviewcolorado.org
Soot Busters
could be reimbursed retroactively. The fire chief does not have the authority to make the decision, he said.
Dowden said the board approved the budget Dec. 28, 2023, but the single line regarding the differential had been removed from the October presentation, and he had no direct recollection of the board consciously removing the line item. As the board looks at the 2025 leave and wage schedule, it makes sense to include the option, he said. The board will do more digging and include any retroactive payment in the 2025 labor costs, Dowden said. He thanked Jones for bringing the issue forward and encouraged the entire team to bring issues forward to the executive staff, and then nothing gets lost in the noise.
Jones said the previous administration had requested the line staff “pick and choose your battles” when approaching the board with requests, and that is why the board has not heard a lot from the line staff, he said.
Dowden said the entire board hopes the relationship is not a battle but a discussion.
Fire drill ground requires solid surface
At the Sept. 18 meeting, Bartlett suspended live fire training at the districts’ training facility until the district brought the training ground into compliance with safety standards. He said the district invites multiple departments to use the fire drill ground and co-hosts the PPSC 16-week Firefighter Academy. See https:// wp.ocn.me/v24n10bffpd/.
At the Oct. 16 meeting, Dowden asked Bartlett if the district was still partnered to jointly host the academy with Monument Fire District (MFD) and PPSC to run a course in January 2025.
Paul’s Asphalt Service
ConCrete Work
Will Your Taxes Affect Your Retirement?
When you retire, you leave behind many things—the daily grind, the commute to work, and maybe even your previous home. However, one thing that will always remain is a tax bill. In fact, income taxes may very well be your single largest expense in retirement. Additionally, income taxes are different for the various retirement investments you may have. When you understand how investments are taxed and set strategies accordingly, it may help you keep income taxes in check.
• How to be tax-efficient in your current bracket.
• How Social Security is taxed.
• Ways to create tax-free retirement income.
This workshop will be held at 21c Library; ENT Conference Room, 1175 Chapel Hills Dr, Colorado Springs, CO on Thursday, December 5, 2024 at 6:00 PM. It’s hosted by Stephanie R Colgate, BFA™ and Zach Schut. Please call 719-800-7624 or email stephanie.colgate@thrivent.com to reserve a place for yourself and a guest. Refreshments will be served at 5:45 pm. No products will be sold.
**********
Bartlett said the district needs to backfill a prop that has a moat around it and rectify the crushed concrete all over the fire drill ground. It is not recommended for best practice and needs to be replaced with either concrete or chipped asphalt. RB Excavation Demolition LLC estimated the backfill and chipped asphalt to encase the chipped concrete would cost about $20,000 to bring the fire drill ground into compliance. The district has already reached $100,000 in workers compensation liability from ankle injuries, with one staff member off shift and on light duties for 16 weeks post-surgery. The district does not need the liability of students incurring the same injuries. A release of liability would be needed and additional language in the memorandum of understanding (MOU) with PPSC, Bartlett said.
The district needs to be as compliant as possible to host training and ensure that everything has been done to reduce all liability, to include the daily training of district staff, Bartlett said. Langmaid made a contract with RB, making multiple payments under $5,000, totaling about $11,000, so the district is owed about 106 hours of operating hours, he said. Langmaid also permitted RB to fill the excavation equipment from district fuel drums (about 1,000 gallons), and some equipment would need to be rented to complete the project, said Bartlett.
Dowden said no plan was ever presented to the board and it all appears to be on the fly. A defined footprint is needed before the board can provide clear guidance for the project.
Tarvainen suggested a delay due to the time of year and the pending temperature changes.
Bartlett said the 2025 MOU with PPSC had not been signed, and he suggested the college resort to Plan B and use Fort Carson or CSFD for training purposes, given the short time-frame left to bring the fire drill grounds into compliance.
After further discussion on the area to be modified and the depth of the asphalt, the board decided to proceed with the project.
The board unanimously approved $20,000 for the project to be completed, contingent on the outstanding labor plus fuel for the rental equipment.
District Administrative Officer Lisa Emry confirmed to this reporter that the BFFRPD Community Room is reserved for classroom tuition from January through May 2025 for the PPSC Fire Academy.
Aging ladder truck has issues
Logistics Officer Rachel Dunn said the Engine 713 aerial ladder truck had electrical issues. District mechanic Gavin Smith reached out to Front Range Apparatus and Seagrave, and both advised they will not work on the electrical issues.
Bartlett said the 1979 aerial ladder truck repairs are on the back burner to focus on building the Type 6 brush trucks, because the ladder truck has major issues with the Aerialscope and it may not pass a ladder test required before placing into service, and said:
• The ladder test was conducted by an out-of-state third-party provider when purchased, but when extending the Aerialscope at a 90-degree angle test now, there are degrees of shifting, which means the main and carrier bearings are loose inside.
• Some parts can be ordered, but most would need to be custom made because the 1979 Aerialscope was placed on a 2005 chassis.
• The wiring also has a problem because it was originally an all-hydraulic unit, but when Pierce Manufacturing replaced the chassis, the controls were turned over to an electrical unit and now it is not talking to the Aerialscope.
Thrivent financial advisors and professionals have general knowledge of the Social Security tenets. For complete details on your situation, contact the Social Security Administration. Thrivent and its financial advisors and professionals do not provide legal, accounting, or tax advice. Consult your attorney or tax professional. See thrivent.com/social for important disclosures. 27878-15M R11-20
Career & Innovation Center Update
In October, Lewis-Palmer School District 38 conducted a request for proposal (RFP) process for general contracting services, which identified Nunn Construction to complete renovations to the existing facility at 1200 Synthes Avenue in Monument. Since the building has served various manufacturing purposes, adaptations will be easy to accommodate D38’s identified education programs including advanced manufacturing, skilled trades, IT, engineering and health care. While the facility will offer high-school level courses during the school day, the district plans to also provide enrichment opportunities for students of all ages and engage with community partners for use of the building outside regular school hours.
District leaders, along with architects from Hollis & Miller, are wrapping up numerous focused conversations with students, staff and community members to finalize design elements including space specifications and aesthetics. Initial discussions with the community launched with an Innovate 38 Community Forum in June and continued through October.
The concept of a CTE facility first began several years ago when D38 assembled community members to gather input regarding future uses of Grace Best Elementary. While the existing building was not deemed to be a good fit for the facility, the energy and excitement surrounding CTE programming remained a focus. Pursuing funds for the project then followed. Without raising taxpayer dollars, D38 purchased the building in August 2024 with funds made available from SB24-017.
The new facility remains to be on track to open for the 2025-26 school year.
Keep an eye on D38’s webpage for regular updates and answers to frequently asked questions at lewispalmer.org/page/ career-innovation-center
Pierce Manufacturing provided a paper with the entire schematic of the engine and it will not work on the apparatus, Seagraves will not work on the apparatus even though it now owns Aerialscope because it cannot get parts. Front Range Apparatus also will not work on the apparatus and Brindlee Mountain Apparatus of Alabama will not purchase the apparatus back and their third-party repair facility suggestion did not return Smith’s calls, said Bartlett. See https:// wp.ocn.me/v22n6bffrpd/, https:// wp.ocn.me/v22n7bffrpd/, and https:// wp.ocn.me/v22n8bffrpd/.
Treasurer Jack Hinton said that when the district purchased the “pile of crap,” a defect return policy was not disclosed.
Bartlett said once the district conducts a walk-through, signs off and makes the purchase, it is standard industry practice to not accept a return. The district purchased the apparatus over two years ago and the inspection report from the district’s walk-through is available, but it was not conducted by Smith, he said.
Note: The delivery of the ladder truck was delayed until April 26, 2023 after leaks were found in in the fire hose supply line in October 2022, and the parts were delayed for about five months.
Pierce Manufacturing covered the cost of the replacement hose line, and Brindlee Mountain Apparatus provided a 90-day warranty upon delivery. See https://wp.ocn.me/v22n12bffrpd/ and https://wp.ocn.me/v23n5bffrpd/.
In September, the district purchased ladders totaling $13,307 to equip Engine 713.
Logistics update
Dowden asked about building out a new Type 3 Wildland engine for deployments.
Bartlett said any new project will push the building of the Type 6 brush trucks further out. The Type 6 apparatus can be deployed and make revenue for the district quickly, once built.
Dunn confirmed that Smith was building out a Type 6 brush truck for completion mid-November and the second would be built in December/January.
Note: The financial and department report can be found at www.bffire.org.
The meeting adjourned at 10:09 p.m.
**********
Meetings are usually held on the third Wednesday of the month at Station 1, 11445 Teachout Road, Colorado Springs. Meetings are open to the public in person or via Zoom. A work session is scheduled for Nov. 2 from 10 a.m. until 2 p.m. The next regular meeting is scheduled for Nov. 20 at 7 p.m. For additional special meeting notifications, joining instructions, updates, agendas, minutes, and reports, visit https://bffire.org or contact the Administrative Office at admin@bffire.org or call 719495-4300.
Natalie Barszcz can be reached at nataliebarszcz@ocn.me.
NOEL RELIEF CENTERS
A NEW APPROACH TO PAIN RELIEF We offer several new treatment options for pain relief and optimal health.
By Natalie Barszcz
At the Donald Wescott Fire Protection District (DWFPD) special meeting on Oct. 8, the board was updated on the merger process with Tri-Lakes Monument Fire Protection District dba Monument Fire District (MFD) and approved three notices to terminate mutual aid, and the transfer of two assignment and assumption agreements for vehicle storage at the former fire station property on Sun Hills Drive to MFD.
The meeting began at 2:38 p.m., when President Charles Fleece joined via Zoom.
District merger update
Attorney Emily Powell of Ireland Stapleton Pryor Pascoe (ISPP) PC law firm, attending via Zoom, said the district hearing on the dissolution of the district had taken place on Sept. 20. The 15-minute hearing was attended by Powell, attorney Dino Ross of ISPP PC law firm, Fire Chief Andy Kovacs, Executive Battalion Chief Micah Coyle, and MFD counsel Maureen Juran. The judge had no questions on the process, pleadings, or transition of the merger, but the bulk of the hearing focused on the dissolution of the district without the judge ordering an additional election.
Visit us on-line and read our story www.NewDayCottages.com Donald Wescott Fire Protection District, Oct. 8 Merger process nears
The three eligible voters, including the two sitting board members and a spouse, had provided affidavits, had previously voted to proceed with the dissolution with the pre-inclusion intergovernmental agreement and the supplemental plan of dissolution. The judge approved the dissolution order that will be held until it is filed with the El Paso County Clerk and Recorder on Dec. 31. Delaying the dissolution order will allow the district to receive any small amount of delayed tax revenue and avoid any complicated accounting for the county Assessor’s Office. Procedural paperwork will continue behind the scenes, and the board member duties had concluded, until the final “special meeting” scheduled for Dec. 5. The meeting is expected to take about 15 minutes to “wrap up” the dissolution process, said Powell.
Termination of
mutual aid agreements
Powell requested the board approve three notices of termination of mutual aid agreements between DWFPD and Cimarron Hills, Palmer Lake, and the City of Colorado Springs. The mutual aid agreements are no longer needed because MFD already has the same agreements with the same entities, said Powell.
The board unanimously approved the termination of the three mutual aid agreements.
Vehicle storage agreement re-assignment
Powell requested the board approve the assignment and assumption agreements for two vehicle storage contracts to be transferred to MFD. The agreements allow the American Red Cross and Emergency Incident Support to use the Sun Hills property for vehicle storage.
The board unanimously approved
the agreements.
Note: For the chief’s report and updates, see the MFD article on page 8 and
Welcome Home!
Rock House Ice Cream, Candy & More 24 Hwy 105, Palmer Lake 80133 719-488-6917
Exceptional quality of life is waiting at New Day Cottages. Residents enjoy a cozy, comfortable, caring lifestyle; family enjoys peace of mind knowing their loved ones are happy, well cared for, and safe.
$39 NEW PATIENT SPECIAL *** Includes Consultation with Dr. Noel, Pulstar Electronic Spinal Alignment, Physical and Neurological Exam, and Report of Findings. 950 Baptist Rd #130, Monument, CO 80132 (719) 359-9947 https://noelreliefcenters.com • info@noelreliefcenters.com CONDITIONS TREATED: Back Pain • Neck Pain • Headaches / Migraines • Sciatica • Arthritis • Tendonitis • Herniated Disc • Frozen Shoulder • Trigger Finger • Rotator Cuff Syndrome • Plantar Fasciitis • Carpal Tunnel Syndrome • Jaw Pain / TMJ Syndrome • Sports Injuries • Sprain / Strain Injuries • Fibromyalgia • More…
Join our family
If being a part of a family in a beautiful home with great care would benefit your loved one, contact us.
Join us for a personal tour with our professional staff. Or, visit us online and read our story. We look forward to welcoming your loved ones home. 719-266-1100
Welcome Home!
Exceptional quality of life is waiting at New Day Cottages. Residents enjoy a cozy, comfortable, caring lifestyle; family enjoys peace of mind knowing their loved ones are happy, well cared for, and safe.
Website: www.NewDayCottages.com Email: newdaycottages@q.com 1577 Turner Road, Colorado Springs, CO 80920 10975 Howells Road, Black Forest, CO 80908
Join our family
Join us for a personal tour with our
visit www.monumentfire.org.
The meeting adjourned at 3:03 p.m. **********
Meetings are usually held on the fourth Wednesday of the month. The final special meeting is scheduled for Dec. 5 at 2:30 p.m., via Zoom and in person at Station 1, 18650 Highway 105.
For Zoom joining instructions, agendas, minutes, and updates, visit www. monumentfire.org or contact Director of Administration Jennifer Martin at 719484-9011. Natalie Barszcz can be reached at nataliebarszcz@ocn.me.
2 Days Only! Mon.-Tue.,
Monument Fire District, Oct. 8 and 23
By Natalie Barszcz
The Tri-Lakes Monument Fire Protection District dba Monument Fire District (MFD) held a special meeting on Oct. 8 after the Sept. 25 meeting was postponed due to a lack of quorum. The board received the first presentation of the 2025 budget and accepted a petition for inclusion of real property, before setting a public hearing for the special meeting on Nov. 13.
At the regular meeting on Oct. 23, the board received the second presentation of the 2025 proposed budget with some minor updates. The board heard about a study of impact fees and sales tax collection and received updates at both meetings on the remodel of Stations 4 and 2, the Station 1 training center, the Station 3 rebuild design, and the land purchase for a future Station 6. For updates on the Donald Wescott Fire Protection District (DWFPD) merger process, see the DWFPD article on page 7.
Vice President John Hildebrandt was excused on Oct 8. President Mike Smaldino was excused on Oct. 23. 2025 proposed budget presentations
Fire Chief Andy Kovacs said a few changes were made to the proposed 2025 budget after the first presentation on Oct. 8, and he reviewed the budget highlighting the following:
• The projected property tax revenue is about $18 million (combines both MFD and about $4 million in DWFPD property taxes) and the district anticipates, with miscellaneous revenue, specific ownership tax, ambulance revenue, an EMS supplement, the remaining DWFPD contract, and wildland deployment revenue, a total of about $24.235 million (up about $2.189 million from 2024).
• The projected expenses are estimated to be about $18.727 million for 2025, with about $11.725 million dedicated to wages and about $3.5 million for benefits.
• The district will maintain a competitive salary and benefits package, and is thankfully not losing employees to South Metro and other agencies that are of like size and comparable to the district.
• The district will maintain training and educational opportunities.
• Benefits continue to rise, as the workforce is marrying, having families, and driving costs up for health insurance and overtime during maternity and paternity leave.
• The district will begin a hiring process on Jan. 1, 2025 for a part-time bookkeeper position with a salary of $50,000. The district has had
about four or five since he became fire chief, and he proposed cancelling the existing contract. A parttime bookkeeper will save several thousand dollars.
• The ending general operations fund balance is expected to be about $4.673 million and necessary to cover operating expenses for the first quarter of 2025. The bulk of the property tax revenue is received in March. The district general operations (wages and benefits) cost is about $1.5 million per month.
Treasurer Tom Kelly said the bulk of the district expenses is used for human resources, and the district did not spend all of the allocated funds for the capital improvements in 2024.
Kovacs said the processes for the capital improvements are taking longer than anticipated.
Note: The public hearing for the proposed 2025 budget will be held at the special meeting on Nov. 13 at 6:30 p.m.
Property tax revenue decrease
Kovacs said that although the district is not proposing a mill levy increase for 2025, it is anticipating a property tax valuation decrease of about $1.242 or about 6.4% in FY2025 due to the state Legislature passing SB 24-233 and HB 24B-1001, in response to the failure of Propositions 50 and 108 in November 2023. The future economic situation of the district could be impacted due to some of the legislation that passed earlier in 2024 and the increased cost of human resources, apparatus, material goods, and services, he said.
NEXUS study required Kovacs said the department is considering diversifying revenue sources and seeking impact fees and levying sales tax as a result of SB24-194 passing in early 2024. Fire protection districts are now permitted to collect impact fees in unincorporated areas of the county and collect sales tax to boost revenue. In the past, the district was permitted only to collect impact fees for properties built within the Town of Monument (TOM). Fire chiefs had requested county-wide impact fees through the El Paso County Board of Commissioners in 2018, but those requests were denied. The state fire chiefs successfully presented the need for impact fees in unincorporated areas to the state House of Representatives in early 2024. The 2025 budget includes $20,000 to engage a consultant to conduct a NEXUS study that is required before implementing the impact fees and/or sales tax, he said.
Future hiring
Executive Battalion Chief Micah Coyle said the district had received 152 applications for future firefighter positions, a
record number for the district. About 75 applicants passed the written exam for an entry-level firefighter position and about 55 have been selected for an oral board interview to create a list of potential hires.
Kovacs said the high number of applicants was due to the district’s social media company “Red Energy,” but the district is not hiring firefighters until the financial future is known. However, an eligibility list will be retained in the event that retirements or resignations occur.
Financial report
Treasurer Tom Kelly said that as of Sept. 30, the district is at 75% of the total amount to be considered in line with annual projections. Overall revenue year to date is about $22.5 million, approximately 102% of the projected 2024 income budget set at about $22 million. (That includes a little over $2 million for the Wescott contract for services). Overall expenses year to date are about $12.527 million or 76.6% of the projected expense budget set at about $16.336 million. Overtime is at 107.16% year to date or about $51,000 over the budgeted $710,000 annual budget for the
and the crews at the ribbon-cutting event on Oct. 12. The district has budgeted about $8.632 million to complete the northside paramedic accommodation at Station 4, Gleneagle Drive. See snapshot on page 21.
Station 2 remodel
Bumgarner said the district received nine bids for the remodel of Station 2, Roller Coaster Road. John Sattler of NV5, the district’s owners representative, will review the bids and the recommendation will be presented to the board on Nov. 13. The district budgeted about $2 million for the project scheduled to begin in January 2025.
Station 1 Training Center
Bumgarner said the district is ready for a public hearing with the Town of Monument Planning Commission in late January or early February and a hearing with Monument Town Council in March. The district will likely be moving dirt and installing infrastructure for the training center at Station 1 in mid-2025, and building could begin in early fall. He has been attending meetings with the town planners to work through the process to plat the site.
Fire Station 3 update
The special meeting adjourned at 7:58 p.m. on Oct 8. The regular meeting adjourned at 7:50 p.m. on Oct 23.
**********
Meetings are usually held on the fourth Wednesday every month. The next regular meeting is scheduled for Nov. 13 at 6:30 p.m. at Station 1, 18650 Highway
By Janet Sellers
The Oct. 9 Monument Planning Commission meeting began with roll call, with all but commissioner Greg Collins present in person. Collins was present
online. Discussions focused on the rezoning of 574 N. Washington St. and the preliminary
and final plat for Jackson Creek North. The commission unanimously approved the rezoning of the property on North Washington Street to align with the comprehensive plan for single-family detached housing. However, concerns were raised regarding the adequacy of the right-of-way for future road improvements and the potential impact on downstream water flow for Jackson Creek North.
Insights from the meeting regarding Jackson Creek North included an analysis based on the Review and Approval Criteria established in section 18.02.260.C of the town’s regulations, alongside discussions and concerns raised during the meeting. The proposed Final Plat for the vacant property does not satisfactorily meet the criteria outlined in the town’s section 18.02.260.C, the commissioners said.
Key areas of concern included the lack of established ultimate use, inadequate service capacity provisions, insufficient information on costsharing for improvements, and limited consideration of natural hazards and conservation. Future developments will require more comprehensive planning to address these deficiencies and ensure compliance with town regulations. The commissioners engaged in extensive discussions about the implications of zoning changes, including considerations for mixed-use development. Topics included residential height limits, stormwater management, and the legality of zoning across hundreds of acres in future devel
with the town attorney present.
Amid the discussions, the commissioners said the proposed Final Plat for Jackson Creek North did not establish the ultimate use of the property and did not demonstrate compliance with the Comprehensive Plan, Parks, Trails, and Open Space Plan, or other plans adopted by the town. This non-conformance raised concerns regarding the alignment of the proposed development with the town’s long-term goals and vision.
The property is currently vacant and undeveloped, and the proposed Final Plat does not sufficiently address how it will ensure compatibility with adjacent properties, commissioners said. This lack of assessment could lead to future conflicts as development progresses. The proposed Final Plat creates a single lot, lacking insight into future development patterns. Additionally, it does not adequately address the impact on light, air, parks, open spaces, and other public uses, contrary to the expectations set forth in the Review and Approval Criteria. Due to the absence of development plans, the proposed Final Plat cannot confirm the provision of adequate, safe, and efficient public improvements, utilities, and community facilities, the commissioners said. Ensuring sufficient service capacity is critical, and its absence poses significant concerns for future development. It also does not provide the necessary development details to establish the property owner’s responsibility for onsite and offsite community improvements and facilities, failing to meet the requirements regarding cost-sharing for infrastructure improvements, the commissioners said.
While the proposed Final Plat addresses some natural hazards by dedicating an easement for wetland drainage and creating two tracts for open space and detention, it does not sufficiently cover protections against other natural hazards, such as fire, flood, or geological risks, the commissioners said. In addition to wetland drainage and open space tracts, the proposed Final Plat provides limited opportunities for the preservation and conservation of significant vegetation stands, which does not align fully with the requirements for natural
Although the proposed Jackson Creek North Final Plat adheres to technical requirements of form and content, it lacks adequate information to verify compliance with local, county, state, and federal regulations, the commissioners said. This lack of detail raised questions about the viability of development plans.
Future development on this property will necessitate the submission of a Site Plan, which must comply with the underlying zoning designation and development review criteria established in the Land Development Code. Additional modifications to the Final Plat may be required based on the forthcoming development plan and relevant codes and ordinances.
The meeting concluded with discussions on potential updates to the development code.
The Planning Commission usually meets on the second Wednesday of each month. It will revisit the discussion on the Jackson Creek North plat at the next meeting on Nov. 13, with the town attorney present to address legalities. For further information on Planning Commission meetings, please visit www.townofmonument. org/263/planning-commission-board-of-adjustment or contact 719-884-8028. Janet Sellers can be reached at JanetSellers@ocn.me.
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 com ments, and Councilmember Marco Fiori to 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 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 finan cial flexibility might consider running,” Chapin explained. She noted that serv ing 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 719-8848014 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.
Lewis-Palmer D38 Parent and Community Advisory Committee, Oct. 8
Grace Best Elementary School, Career-Innovation Center plans discussed
By Harriet Halbig
The Lewis-Palmer D38 Parent and Community Advisory Committee met at Lewis-Palmer Elementary School (LPES) on Oct. 8. Among the subjects discussed were activities at the school, potential treatments of the Grace Best Elementary School building, and ongoing development of the new Career and Innovation Center
LPES report
LPES Principal Davonne Johnson conducted a tour of the building before the meeting began. She explained that each school day begins with a greeting and opportunities to introduce oneself to others and mingle. She then involved the committee members in a left-right story reading where members passed balls back and forth when the words left or right were read.
The school was built in 1974 and just celebrated its 50th anniversary. It now has 409 students. Its vision is that all students matter and belong.
LPES offers several programs for those with disabilities including those for students with significant support needs and Affective Needs.
The theme for this school year is LPES is staying on track, all aboard, using the motif of a train throughout the building.
Board of Education report
Board liaison Tiffiney Upchurch reported on recent discussion of the Grace Best Elementary School building during the board’s work session on Oct. 1.
The facility was assessed in 2020 regarding the suitability of its use for students and other community members. Among current uses are the Silver Key Senior Center, Palmer Ridge Robotics, the Transitions program, and the Home School Enrichment Academy.
At the board’s Oct. 1 work session, it was told that during a recent fire walk Monument Fire Chief Andy Kovacs had been unaware that there were students in the building over the past few years. As a result, when he conducted his walk this year he created a list of issues which would need to be addressed for the building be used for students.
Among these was the storage of combustible materials such as boxes and wood and damaged or missing fire resistant ceiling tiles.
Upchurch said that the chief did not submit a documented report to the Colorado Department of Education but said that he required the district to develop a plan to address the list of problems by the time he visited next year.
The board had passed a resolution in June 2021 to demolish the portion of the building built in 1959 and the gymnasium and retain the two-story portion built in 1988. No action was taken.
To hear the discussion, please see the livestream of the Oct. 1 work session on lewispalmer.org, Board of Education, livestreams of board meetings.
Board Secretary Dr. Patti Shank reported on subjects to be addressed at the Oct. 21 board meeting.
Career and Innovation Center Director of Innovative Programs Jessica McAllister reported on progress in developing programs and determining use of space in the new Career and Innovation building on Synthes Drive. To view her PowerPoint, please see Family Resources, Community, Committees, meeting contents, and the date Oct. 8.
Planning for the center began in 2022 with a series of meetings and surveys including community members, industry representatives, students, and families. Then the building became
available and with the passage of Senate Bill 24-017, $8 million became available for one-time use by the district. This enabled the district to plan the center without using reserve funds.
In the past year, meetings have focused on curriculum, technology needs, prioritization of occupations within categories, and continued solicitation of feedback from industry partners and post-secondary institutions. Potential funding sources are being identified and plans for water, storage, and electrical needs are being examined.
Plans include a course proposal to the Board of Education in November, vertical alignment for the program of study in March, and staffing plans in April.
Courses of study will concentrate on information technology, engineering, manufacturing, and health sciences. Students in grades 9 through 12 will be involved in two double blocks of classes each day. Courses will vary from beginner to advanced levels in content.
Following her presentation, McAllister involved committee members in viewing various options for the use of
color and spaces within the building. Superintendent Forum District Superintendent Stacie Datteri said she is using feedback from last month’s meeting to determine her priorities in her new position. She said she is determined to get things right with regard to the strategic plan. She has met with staff and departments and asked for suggestions about values for the district.
She said she views what is best for the kids as her primary consideration. She stresses that students and staff must be respectful with each other and all have an equal chance for success.
**********
The Parent and Community Advisory Committee meets six times per year. Locations vary. The next meeting will be at 6 p.m. Nov. 12 at the Monument Academy East Campus, 4303 Pinehurst Circle, Colorado Springs. For information, please contact tmckee@lewispalmer.org. Harriet Halbig may be reached at harriethalbig@ocn.me.
Monument Academy School Board, Oct. 17 and 24 Board hears financial audit, improvement plan, internal review
By Jackie Burhans
The Monument Academy (MA) board held two meetings in October. In its first meeting on the 17th, the board heard its financial audit, unified improvement plan, and October enrollment count report. It passed several policies.
At its second meeting on the 24th, the board heard an internal school review audit from a consulting firm and entered an executive session to discuss possible actions.
Financial audit
Tom Sistare of Hoelting & Co. Inc., MA’s audit firm, dialed in to remotely present a summary of the financial audit presentation, giving MA an unmodified or clean opinion. Sistare said his team had been on-site in July testing internal controls and believes MA’s financial statements are presented fairly.
He said the audit covers both fund statements, which are how the school keeps its books on a day-to-day basis, as well as government-wide statements that roll all funds together and add capital assets, debt, and other liabilities.
In the government-wide statement, the statement of net position is the balance sheet for the entire school, Sistare said, indicating that cash and investments were up, capital assets decreased due to depreciation, and grants receivables were down due to fewer grants being available. The long-term liability is $55.5 million with a $39.1 million loan balance. MA paid $922,000 in debt service through the building corporation fund which manages the bonds for the West Campus and has $16.2 million in liability due to the Public Employees’ Retirement Association (PERA) unfunded liabilities. MA’s net position decreased by $798,000 primarily due to PERA.
For the fund statements, Sistare said the ratio of ending general fund balance to total expenditures for the year was similar to last year, maintaining a balance equal to 80 days of expenditures. For the current year’s activities, he said local revenues increased due to increases in donations and state per pupil revenue. Federal revenue fell as COVID grants wound down. Revenue was up about 4% with expenditures up 5% with a resulting $243,000 increase in fund balance. This compares favorably with a budgeted $790,000 decrease in fund balance. Sistare concluded by saying there were no findings of deficiencies on internal controls or other areas.
Interim Chief Financial Officer Glenn Gustafson added a three-year high-level comparison. He noted that for government agencies MA uses full accrual, while for day-to-day purposes it uses a modified accrual. Over three years, Gustafson said, the general fund revenues increased from $10.8 to $13.8 million due to School Finance Act revenue or per pupil revenue (PPR) while enrollment has been flat. Expenditures have grown due to hiring and raises, but the difference has gone from a $131,000 loss to a $243,000 profit. MA is trying to come into full compliance with its bond covenants, he said, and ending fund balance, which is the reserve, has increased by $653,000, which is a good position for a bond refinance.
The preschool fund had a small loss, but MA has made changes to bring it back to financial stability. It drew down the balance from $99,000 to
$66,000. The building corporation and the foundation funds handle the bonds for the West and East Campus respectively and function with a fairly straight flow through from the state’s intercept program. Bank balances are invested aggressively and have seen good interest returns. Finally, the Student Activity Fund totals $125,000, has had a lot of cleanup, and is used only for Student Council expenses. He said he was very pleased with Hoelting, a local firm that has done a lot of work with charter schools.
Non-financial audit
summarized
At a special meeting on Oct. 24, Lis Richard of Helping Schools Thrive LLC (HST) delivered a summary of her internal review audit which she emphasized was focused on academic, operational, and governance review rather than a financial audit. A more detailed presentation will be presented at the Nov. 21 meeting.
Richard, who served as MA’s principal until 2017, said her objective was to compare current practices and policies with the original intent of the school charter and philosophy documents and offer the board and leadership some tangible reflection and resources. For her summary, she focused on academics, philosophy, and student achievement.
For philosophy, she said PK-12 staff has only a basic understanding of the philosophy of MA and that no one could give an elevator speech explaining it. The foundational principles, practices, and virtues are not trained annually nor understood by leadership, which she found concerning. Understanding philosophy could aid in ensuring that it is a pillar of practice, she said.
Her greatest area of concern was that PK-5 did not have a solid curriculum direction and had too many supplemental materials that do not follow Core Knowledge (CK) practices. There is a strong implementation of core subjects in secondary school, which was a stellar start, she said while noting that the arts curriculum could better follow the CK sequence and work to support interdisciplinary practices. CK is spiraling and vertically aligned, Richard said. Training on curriculum is lacking for staff and leaders, she said. Regarding student achievement, she said there are no current methods for new student assessment, which would be a good practice to provide to teachers. The assessment data has fallen to lead teachers or administration and is not used as a method of accountability for instruction and utilization with students and parents. The purpose of assessment is not clear in PK, Richard said, and MA’s elementary schools are no longer competitive with other district schools. There is a spirit of “That may be OK,” she added. Middle school achievement is in the upper quadrant but has room to improve, she said, and it was encouraging that the high school has performed well in its few years of existence.
In respect to operations, Richard said there is adequate room for PK-5, but that obviously the secondary school needs more room. Documentation of
standard operating procedures are in progress, she said, and handbooks need to become cohesive across the campuses. Graduation requirements meet statutes. Enrollment has remained stable but does not reflect growth, Richard noted, displaying a screen show depicting that the Tri-Lakes area from 2010 to 2021 had grown 50%. MA’s enrollment trends show the highest growth when the school expanded to K-8 and had a large class size in 2018, after which class sizes started to go down.
This year is the lowest class size since 2013, she said. Population in the Tri-Lakes area has increased by 67% while class size at MA has dipped 7%, she said, with enrollment increases being due to adding grades. D38 saw a growth of 9% over that same time frame, she said. With an increase in full-time equivalent (FTE) students, there has been an increase in staff and debt. The greatest need for sustainability in the future is to increase student enrollment, Richard stated.
On governance, she noted that MA board members are parents dedicated to the current and future success of the school. Board roles and responsibilities should be reviewed annually, and new member training should be consistent, she said. The board needs a better understanding of governing by policy and setting direction. She noted that the board had begun reviewing policies and said that an academic policy is needed that includes penmanship. Teacher representatives should be inducted as was done in the past, Richard advised.
Overall, Richard gave academics a mixed score of green, yellow, and red while operations was mostly green with some yellow and governance was 1/3 green with the rest mostly yellow and just a little red. She recommended that leadership identify an action plan, involve staff, and establish a timeline, saying that HST has a system for developing an excellent school and could return for quarterly benchmarks or annual reviews.
The board went into executive session for one hour for advice on specific legal matters regarding the external audit report and for discussion of personnel matters arising from the report. Upon returning, it took no action.
Unified Improvement Plan
East Campus Principal Angela Duca presented a draft of MA’s secondary school Unified Improvement Plan (UIP) for the board’s approval at its Oct. 10 meeting. The intent, she said, is to create goals based on student data as required by the Colorado Department of Education (CDE). The process began by attending a workshop with D38 and analyzing the data from the school performance framework to inform academic goals. By evaluating the SPF, NWEA, and Pre-Scholastic Aptitude Test (PSAT) data, MA identified the need to improve math growth in middle and high schools. The principals met to determine priorities and challenges.
For middle school, there has been a high turnover of math teachers and therefore inconsistent implementation of curriculum Duca said. She said the major strategies to improve include teacher retention and data-informed instruction. MA plans to use mentor teachers throughout the school year and provide support through frequent check-ins and monthly instruction and revised teacher training. MA will partner with colleges to recruit highly effective teachers, and math teachers will work together to create vertically aligned curriculum.
For high school, schedule constraints and lack of access to student data before the school year mean that instruction was not tailored to student needs, Duca said. The root focus is limited math programs and placing students in the right class. MA will implement datainformed instruction and work to vertically align curriculum and content. Duca said MA will use PSAT and NSMQT scores to help and will re-evaluate its math placement tests. Executive Director Collin Vinchattle had a 13% teacher loss rate, which sounds high but is about average, she said.
Elementary Principal Kurt Walker said West Campus improved by 18 points, moving from an “im-
provement” to a “performance” category, which is the highest category. The school rose in all areas except for math growth where scores went down, as did all D38 elementary schools, he said. Last year’s UIP goals were two-year goals, he said, so they would continue with those. They focused so much on English and Language Arts that they neglected math. The West campus started trainings on data analysis of the math scores and had a professional development session with both campuses, which opened his eyes to what was missing, he said.
The board unanimously approved the UIP plans for MA elementary and secondary schools. The plans go to D38 to be approved and sent to the state. October count presentation Registrar Lena Gross presented on the final enrollment after the October count. She explained that the October count encompasses Tuesday, Sept. 24 to Tuesday, Oct 8. If a student is absent on Oct.1, the official count day, MA could review the attendance record to prove a student was in attendance for five consecutive days before or after. If that wasn’t possible, MA gathered letters on extenuating circumstances from parents or letters from teachers affirm their attendance. The following week, MA was scheduled to present its numbers to D38 for submission to the CDE.
Gross explained that the homeschool partnership had 30 students, who are counted as half of a student for a total of 15 full-time equivalent (FTE) students. West Campus was just under the budget projection of 546 at 544.5 FTE including half-day students. East Campus was seven below the projection of 547. Middle school was budgeted for 407 and had 408 while high school was budgeted for 140 students and had 132. Overall FTE is 1099.6, which is 3.9 under the budgeted target of 1103.5.
Gross said it was possible that MA would be entering arbitration and was under discussion with two other districts about two students. This would bring the final FTE to 1097.6, but MA won’t know the final CDE determination until December.
There were a lot of additions and withdrawals during the October count, Gross said, with West Campus growing by two but then losing seven, and East Campus growing by one and losing seven. She said MA had been in touch with families who left and sent them exit interviews to capture as much data as possible to understand their reasons for leaving. Gross noted that last year about 26% of K-12 students resided outside of the district, and that had increased to 27% this year with more districts being represented in MA’s population. Gross said MA would use that data to inform its marketing strategy going forward.
Gross said that MA had held its first Community Connections night at its West Campus and were encouraged that several families attended. The team was hard at work planning events for the upcoming enrollment season including moving students to middle and high school, she said.
Policy updates
The MA board unanimously adopted and updated several policies at its Oct. regular meeting:
• KECL-MA Library Policy – As discussed in previous meetings.
• GBGG-MA Staff Leave – Explains types of leave and how it can be used.
• GBGH-MA Sick Leave Bank – Placeholder as MA does not have a sick leave bank.
• GBGH-R-MA Sick Leave Bank Regulation – Placeholder as above.
• GBGI-MA Staff Military Leave – Updated to reference executive director.
• GBGJ-MA Staff Bereavement Leave – Through paid or sick leave, not separate.
• GBGK-MA Staff Legal Leave – Standard modified to suit MA.
Board President Ryan Graham said he was grateful to have a library policy in place and that, if revisions are identified during implementation, it can be brought back to the board. Board policies can be found on the MA website at http://bit.ly/ma-boe by selecting Board Policies.
Highlights
Board meeting highlights include:
• Graham spotlighted outgoing West Campus school resource officer (SRO) Dustin Williams. He expressed gratitude for Williams ensuring safety while building impactful and heartfelt relationships.
• Vinchattle reported that the field fundraising campaign had raised over $70,000 so far.
• Gustafson said there was a $68,000 loss in August due to upfront expenses, but that year-to-date MA is $285,000 ahead with $3.5 million in the bank and investment accounts. Finances are looking good, and he feels MA has turned the corner.
• Graham reported that, with MA’s completion of its recirculation construction, parents should sign up for project updates by emailing hwy105aconstruction@gmail.com.
• Board member Matt Ross and Vice President Lindsay Clinton reported for their respective campus curriculum committees that both are looking to focus on vertical alignment after they get the results of the school audit due in November.
• Ross and board member Jilinda Dygert reported for their respective campus School Accountability and Advisory Committees (SAAC) that they were working on an annual parent survey. Dygert said the East Campus SAAC is focused on providing support on the UIP and asked that input on direction, board priorities, goals, and survey topics be emailed to saacsecondary@monumentacademy. net or communicated to Vinchattle. She asked that parents consider volunteering for lunch duty and car line to free up teachers’ time.
• The board unanimously agreed to modify its Integrity Bank signature cards due to the departure of MA’s business manager Diane Smith. They removed Smith and added Finance Assistant Dawn Bartlett, who has agreed to pitch in, picking up the financial slack in addition to her human resources duties.
• The board unanimously approved changing its November meeting from the 14th to the 21st so consultant Lis Richard can present the full nonfinancial audit.
• The next district Parent and Community Advisory Committee (PCAC) will be held at MA’s East Campus on Nov. 12 from 6 to 8 p.m., with an optional tour starting at 5:30 p.m.
**********
The MA School Board meets at 6:30 p.m. on the second Thursday of each month. The November meeting has been moved to accommodate a detailed school audit presentation. The next regular board meeting will be on Thursday, Nov. 21, at 6:30 p.m. at the East Campus. For more information, visit https://bit.ly/ma-boe. Jackie Burhans can be reached at jackieburhans@ocn.me.
Lewis-Palmer D38 Board of Education, Oct. 21 Board approves Unified Improvement Plans, selects contractor for Career and Innovation Center
By Harriet Halbig
There was no livestream available of the Oct. 21 meeting of the Lewis-Palmer D38 Board of Education. This article is based on information in boarddocs. To refer to this source, please see the district website, lewispalmer.org. Go to the Board of Education tab, boarddocs, meetings, and select the meeting date. Click on view the agenda to see the PowerPoint presentations from the meeting.
Unified Improvement Plan discussion
Assistant Superintendent Amber Whetstine presented on the subject of the annual Unified Improvement Plans (UIP) for the district and each school. This document details information on academic achievement and growth in such categories as math, English Language Arts, and (this year for the first time) science.
Within these categories data is further broken down in demographics such as English Language Learners, those qualified for free/reduced lunch, and students in special education or the gifted/talented program. Graduation and dropout rates are included as are statistics regarding the number of students attending two- or four-year colleges or entering the military immediately after graduation.
The district must transmit these forms to the Colorado Department of Education in October, including proposed action to improve performance. All schools received performance plans rather than improvement plans this year.
Growth is measured by comparing this year’s assessment scores with the previous year. The goal is to be in the 50th percentile or higher each year so students remain at grade level.
Whetstine reported that the plans had been reviewed by principals, school teams, the Parent and Community Advisory Committee, and Building Ac-
countability Advisory committees.
Even when assessment results are strong, district officials determine possible steps to improve them.
Performance priorities identified were inadequate growth in elementary math, and inadequate growth in math and English in middle school.
Proposed solutions were to provide professional development to literacy across content areas and especially to meet the needs of preschoolers, multilingual households, and those on Individual Education Plans or in the gifted/talented program. Programs for monitoring progress would be implemented for those performing below grade level, and instructional coaches would aid in training teachers to address the problem. The goal for literacy is to have 90% of students in grades K through 3 reading at grade level by 2027.
With regard to math, professional development would be provided for teachers at all grade levels, there would be a targeted emphasis on number sense, instructional materials will be reviewed at the elementary level, and an effort will be made to determine the influence of time spent on the subject.
The board voted to transmit the UIPs to the Colorado Department of Education.
Contractor chosen for Career and Innovation Center
Chief Business Officer Brett Ridgway reported on the selection process for a general contractor for the Career and Innovation Center now in development.
Ridgway reported that over a thousand firms were notified of the project. One hundred and two of these firms sought further information and 33 individuals attended a pre-bid walk-through of the site. Eleven contractors submitted bids by Sept. 23.
Contractors were evaluated on the basis of qualifications, teams availability and qualifications, innova-
tion and project approach, cost of services, and project schedule.
Six reviewers, one of whom is from the architectural firm of Hollis and Miller on the project, scored each category.
Nunn Construction scored highest, including extensive experience in Career and Technical Education across many schools and districts with new construction and renovation.
The board approved the contracting of Nunn Construction as general contractor for the Career and Innovation Center.
Student recognition
Palmer Ridge High School Principal Dr. Adam Frank and science teacher Ms. Leslie Lantz recognized sophomores Casey Chau and Will Guttorman for their work on the school’s Outdoor Learning Lab.
These students, working toward their Eagle Scout award, raised funds, recruited volunteers, and completed two pathways in the Outdoor Learning Lab.
To view the project, please see boarddocs.
Staff recognition:
National Principals Month
Superintendent Dr. Stacie Datteri recognized D38 principals for National Principals Month, saying they are among the hardest working yet least recognized individuals in education. She said principals set the academic tone for their schools and provide the mobilizing force for achieving student success. October count announced
In his financial planning and analysis presentation, Ridgway announced that the October count was 10 students below the count on Oct. 1, 2023. It was 35 students fewer than those counted on Aug. 14 of this year.
Above: At the Oct. 17 Monument Academy school board meeting, board President Ryan Graham spotlighted outgoing West Campus School Resource Officer (SRO) Dustin Williams. Graham is on the left, with Williams on the right. Photo by Jackie Burhans.
Above: On Oct. 21, the D38 Board of Education celebrated two Eagle Scouts who contributed to the Outdoor Learning Lab (OLL) at Palmer Ridge High School. Principal Dr. Adam Frank and science teacher Lesley Lantz described the projects performed by Will Guttormsen and Cashe Chau. Guttormsen built a pathway in the lab that took 220 hours, leveraged 26 volunteers, and raised $1,465 which was donated to the OLL. Chau’s project enhancing the OLL space in September leveraged 27 volunteers and took 182 hours. From left are board President Tiffiney Upchurch, board member Todd Brown, Frank, Guttormsen, board member Ron Schwarz, Chau, board member Kris Norris, board member Dr. Patti Shank, Lantz, and Superintendent Dr. Stacie Datteri. Photo by Jackie Burhans
Ridgway reminded those in attendance that students in the Home School Enrichment Academy and preschool count as less than the full-time students.
The October count determines the amount of perpupil operating revenue the district receives from the state.
Literacy program update
Whetstine and district Literacy Specialist Peggy Griebenow presented an overview of the district’s literacy program, including assessment tools and a Comprehensive State Literacy Development Grant. To view the report, please see boarddocs.
Career and Technical Education update
Whetstine and Director of Innovative Programs Jessica McAllister reported on the district’s Career and Technical Education program and progress on the Career and Innovation Center.
The Career and Technical Education program encompasses business, marketing and public information, health sciences, skilled trades such as construction, and digital media, engineering, and information technology.
Included in the presentation were slides showing funding sources, slides showing the use of color at the new Career and Innovation Center, and a programming update.
To view the presentation, please see boarddocs.
Monument Academy Annual Report
Above: At its Oct. 21 meeting, the Lewis-Palmer D38 Board of Education celebrated its school principals in honor of National Principal month. Superintendent Dr. Stacie Datteri called each principal in attendance to the podium to describe their contributions and give them a gift bag with items especially selected for them. From left, in the back, are board President Tiffiney Upchurch, Ray Kilmer Elementary School Principal Greg Saunders, Bridget O’Connor, Lewis-Palmer Middle School Principal Courtney Harrell, Lewis-Palmer Elementary School Principal Davonne Johnson, Monument Academy (MA) Principal Kurt Walker, and MA Board President Ryan Graham. From left, in front, are Palmer Ridge High School Principal Dr. Adam Frank, Homeschool Enrichment Academy Principal Julie Jadomski, Prairie Winds Elementary School Principal Rachel Sellers, MA High School Principal Angela Duck, Bear Creek Elementary School Principal Donnell Potter, and D38 Superintendent Dr. Stacie Datteri. Kim Briding, Palmer Lake Elementary School principal, was unable to attend. Photo by Jackie Burhans.
Representatives of Monument Academy Charter School presented the school’s annual report in accordance with the school’s contract with the district. Representatives included Executive Director Collin Vinchattle, Interim Chief Financial Officer Glenn Gustafson, and board President Ryan Graham.
To view the report, please see boarddocs.
Corrections
The Board of Education article on the Sept. 16 meeting in the October issue regarding assessment results included a statement that board Treasurer Ron Schwarz felt that Monument Academy was falling behind in its results. Schwarz did not make a statement to this subject.
He said the operating schools and Monument Academy each excelled in certain areas and wondered if the difference in pedagogy between them could make a difference in results. He asked whether the operating schools and Monument Academy shared practices.
Schwarz was told that Monument Academy representatives attended meetings to share best practices with other district schools.
In addition, we misspelled Dr. Stacie Datteri’s first name in a photo caption.
OCN regrets the errors
Woodmoor Water and Sanitation
By James Howald
At its October meeting, the Woodmoor Water and Sanitation District (WWSD) board discussed options for funding the district’s portion of the Loop water reuse project. WWSD is one of four water districts participating in the project to divert water from Fountain Creek and return it to customers in El Paso County. Cherokee Metropolitan District and Donala Water and Sanitation District are committed to the project; the Town of Monument is considering participation.
District Manager Jessie Shaffer delivered a draft budget for 2025 to the board, and a budget workshop and public hearing were scheduled. The board heard financial and operational reports. The meeting ended with an executive session, after which no actions were taken.
Financing options for the Loop prove complex
Andrew Rheem of Raftelis, the company that advises WWSD on rates and financial modeling, attended the meeting to help the board sort through the options for financing its portion of the Loop. Shaffer said he had asked Rheem to consider whether WWSD should seek its own financing or have the Loop issue revenue bonds on WWSD’s behalf, and to analyze sensitivities around using general obligation bonds, raising the district’s volumetric rates for water use and raising tap fees.
Rheem said funding for the Loop is a medium to long-term decision and not about rates in 2025. WWSD can use group financing, which is based on the credit worthiness of the weakest participating district, or can “go it alone.” He explained there are several potential funding sources: cash funding from reserves and tap fees and rates; grant funding; general obligation bonds, which require voter approval; and revenuebacked bonds that do not require voter approval but that raise rates. General obligation bonds tend to get lower interest rates than revenue-backed bonds. The district could decide to use a combination of these sources, Rheem said.
Shaffer suggested the board might use a sinking fund, essentially a savings account that would allow the outstanding debt on the Woodmoor Ranch to be paid off early, saving interest costs. Those savings could be used to finance the Loop. He said there are other options that might be worth considering.
Board President Brian Bush said the Loop could not be financed with rate increases alone; higher rates would motivate customers to conserve water. Weather conditions could affect funding from water rates, he said. Financial reserves should be used carefully, he argued, because the district has ageing infrastructure that is subject to catastrophic failure.
“General obligation bonds are on the table,” he said, but the district’s Renewable Water Infrastructure Fee (RWIF) made it less likely voters would approve any general obligation bonds. He recommended a twoyear marketing campaign to educate voters. “We need a composite,” he said, which would include rate increases, tap fees, use of financial reserves and perhaps general obligation bonds.
Shaffer said the board had time to consider its
options and volumetric rates could be kept low if the board decides to do so.
Rheem said repayment in 20 years is common for infrastructure debt but the board could consider a 30year repayment schedule, which would result in lower payments over a longer time.
Director Dan Beley argued for raising tap fees to make new development fund the Loop as much as possible. Beley has made the same argument at previous meetings. Director Tom Roddham agreed with Beley’s position on tap fees. Shaffer pointed out that tap fee revenue can be high one year and low the next due to economic forces that affect new construction.
Bush raised the issue of savings that would result from the need for fewer capital projects when the Loop is completed. Board Treasurer Roy Martinez said the district’s funding for renewal and replacement would likely increase in the short term due to the age of the district’s infrastructure. Shaffer said once water was available through the Loop, spending on new wells would drop, perhaps to zero. Operations Supervisor Dan LaFontaine said WWSD was currently spending about $1 million per year on renewal and replacement, and he was working on a long-term renewal and replacement plan. LaFontaine said the corrosive soils in the district caused the saddles that connect pipelines to fail, leading to increased renewal and replacement costs.
Summarizing the discussion, Shaffer said he would continue to work with Rheem to develop funding options for the board to consider, general obligation bonds seemed less likely to be useful, static fees might be part of the solution, and volumetric rates should remain unchanged or perhaps be increased by 1% above the cost of living. Bush said he believed the RWIF would remain in place beyond its current expiration date of 2031, and it was likely WWSD would have to use some of its reserves to finance the Loop. General obligation bonds at some point in the future were on the table, he said.
Draft budget for 2025 delivered Shaffer gave the board copies of the proposed budget for 2025. The board scheduled a workshop for Oct. 23 to discuss it and a public hearing to be opened at the board’s next meeting on Nov. 11. The public hearing will remain open until the board’s meeting in December.
Financial and operational reports
In his financial report, Martinez noted higher water service revenue due to a dry September. He said the meter replacement program was spending about $100,000 per month. The board voted unanimously to accept the financial report.
LaFontaine, in his operational report, said that he had purchased a clamp-on electromagnetic flow meter that he was using to test the district’s other meters to identify discrepancies in water measurements. He said he had confirmed that the meter at the Southern Water Treatment Plant was adding about 3.8% to the true amount it was processing. He also noted two line breaks, neither resulting in large water losses. All the district’s lift stations had been cleaned, he said, and
The Lewis-Palmer D38 Board of Education meets at 6 p.m. on the third Monday of each month in the district’s learning center, 146 Jefferson St. in Monument. The next meeting will be on Nov. 18. For information, please contact vwood@lewispalmer.org. Harriet Halbig may be reached at harriethalbig@ocn.me.
he was seeing good results from the use of enzymes to prevent the accumulation of grease in lift stations.
In her engineering report, District Engineer Cydney Saelens said the transmission line for Well 22 had passed its first pressure test. Shaffer added that the pipeline was nearly half completed.
Shaffer said bids had been requested for the construction of a 650,000-gallon concrete water storage
tank and he anticipated construction would begin in late spring or early summer of 2025.
Executive session
The meeting ended with an executive session to discuss negotiating positions regarding the district’s participation in the Loop water reuse project and discussions with Classic Homes. No action was taken following the executive session.
Monument Sanitation District, Oct. 16
**********
The next meeting is on Nov. 11 at 1 p.m. Meetings are usually held on the second Monday of each month at 1 p.m. at the district office at 1845 Woodmoor Drive. Please see www.woodmoorwater.com or call 719-4882525 to verify meeting times and locations. James Howald can be reached at jameshowald@ocn.me.
Board considers rate increase; discusses 2025 budget
By Jackie Burhans and James Howald
At its October meeting, the Monument Sanitation District (MSD) board continued its discussion of rates that began at its September meeting. The board also discussed the proposed 2025 budget drafted by District Manager Mark Parker. The board voted on a resolution authorizing the El Paso County treasurer to collect MSD’s delinquent accounts. Parker gave the board an operational report.
Rate increase of $5 or $10 per month debated
Board Secretary Janet Ladowski opened the discussion of rate increases, saying a $10 per month increase would “cause a huge uproar.” She suggested an increase of $5 per month initially and re-evaluating in two years to see if that amount had covered inflation, costs, and interest rates. She said the board should print information about what it was doing and why.
Board President Dan Hamilton agreed the increase should be $5 and recommended that the district move to online payment of bills and discourage payment by check. He proposed a $10 per month increase with a discount of $5 if the customer paid their bill online.
Ladowski said many of the district’s customers were elderly and Hamilton’s proposal would punish some for not being comfortable paying their bill online. Parker estimated that 75% of the district’s customers pay by check, with the remainder paying online. The trend is moving toward online payment, he said, adding “the older generation loves their checks.” Board Treasurer John Howe said older customers distrust online payment. Hamilton responded that checks are less secure than online payment. Parker said online payment would not save the district much time or effort because the district’s software systems were not well integrated. Ladowski said customers who write checks use their check registers to track their finances and many would need training to switch to using their computers for that purpose. Parker pointed out that MSD spends $14,000 per year mailing bills to its customers.
Returning to the issue of rate increases, Director
Tony Archer said an increase of $5 per month would cover inflation. Howe said that costs at the Tri-Lakes Wastewater Treatment Facility that MSD shares with the Town of Palmer Lake and the Woodmoor Water and Sanitation District were increasing dramatically, and MSD’s budget would need to include those costs.
Parker reminded the board that the rate study done by GMS Engineering Inc. recommended that the rate be set to allow the collection of up to $55,000 per year above operating expenses to cover capital projects.
Operations specialist Jim Kendrick agreed with Howe that treatment costs were rising due to changes in treatment limits and “emerging constituents of concern.” Treatment costs are operational, he said, rather than capital costs. Parker confirmed that treatment costs had doubled in the last year.
There was a consensus among the board members that an increase of $10 per month was too high, but no specific action was taken. Parker said the board would need to make a final decision in November.
2025 budget presented Parker included a proposed 2025 budget in the board packet for the meeting and asked the board for feedback. The proposed budget listed total income increasing from $2.520 million in 2024 to $2.696 million in 2025. Total expenditures are budgeted to increase from $1.213 million in 2024 to $2.913 million in 2025. The 2025 budget allows for a 5% increase in MSD salaries and a new employee.
Parker said that 2024 was a banner year for interest income, with MSD earning between 4.5% and 5% on its COLOTRUST account. He questioned whether that would continue in 2025. The funds budgeted for engineering services are expected to rise in 2025 because in 2024 MSD was able to use funds from the American Recovery Plan Act (ARPA) for those services. ARPA funds will not be available in 2025, he said.
Parker said the 2025 budget would have to include funding for capital projects such as manhole repairs, lining some of the older service lines, and increased
Donala
Water and Sanitation District, Oct. 10
costs at the treatment plant. Parker explained janitorial costs would fall in 2025 because a bonded and insured cleaning company had given the district an estimate that was half of what it was currently paying.
The board took no action following the discussion. County treasurer to collect on delinquent accounts
Parker told the board there are 13 delinquent accounts, most with balances under $5,000.
The board voted unanimously in favor of Resolution 10162024-1, which authorizes the county treasurer to collect on those accounts.
Manager’s report
In his manager’s report, Parker said the lift stations were working well, there were no issues with the tenants renting space in the district’s building, and improvements to the district’s supervisory control and data acquisition system (SCADA) were complete except for one radio that needs to be replaced.
Parker told the board that he had identified four properties that were receiving sewer service but were not within the MSD service area. He said he would provide details and ask the board to approve their inclusion at the November board meeting.
Parker updated the board on a six-unit building on Raspberry Lane that had encountered problems with a private common sewer line owned by the Homeowners Association. Parker assured the board that the district’s infrastructure was not the cause of the problem.
Monument Sanitation District meetings are held at 9 a.m. on the third Wednesday of the month in the district conference room at 130 Second St., Monument. The next regular meeting is scheduled for Nov. 20. See https://MonumentSanitationDistrict.org. For a district service map, see https://MonumentSanitationDistrict. org/district-map. Information: 719-481-4886. Jackie Burhans can be reached at jackieburhans@ocn.me. James Howald can be reached at jameshowald@ocn.me.
Board receives preliminary 2025 budget, considers rate increase
By James Howald and Jackie Burhans
At its October meeting, Donala Water and Sanitation District (DWSD) General Manager Jeff Hodge presented a preliminary budget for 2025, prompting discussions of capital projects and a rate increase. The board voted to put the question of eliminating term limits to the voters. The board heard financial and operational reports. Board President Wayne Vanderschuere attended remotely and Board Vice President Bill George facilitated the meeting.
Preliminary budget assumes rate increase Hodge presented a preliminary budget that anticipates total revenue of $11.010 million and total expenditures of $10.250 million for the 2025 fiscal year and includes a proposed 9.25% increase in rates. The budget includes $3.15 million for eight capital projects:
• $500,000 to continue the rehabilitation of water tanks.
• $395,144 for video inspection of the sewer system.
• $500,000 for the Loop water reuse project.
• $500,000 for rehabilitation of two wells.
• $75,000 for fire mitigation at Willow Creek Ranch.
• $245,000 for water supply/reuse water.
• $650,000 for water treatment facilities.
• $290,000 for the aquifer storage and retrieval (ASR) project.
Hodge told the board the district had retained Raftelis, a company that does financial modeling and rate studies for local governments and utilities, to review DWSD’s capital projects, financial policies, rates, and reserves in preparation for the 2025 budget process.
Director Ed Miller asked Hodge what could be removed from the list of capital projects if only $2.5 million were available. Hodge answered that some projects could be put off, but that would lead to more expensive projects later. If ASR were removed from the list, that would change water supplies for the next 20 years. Hodge noted that long-term capital projects totaled $23 million. Miller said the proposed increase would not fund any of the long-term capital projects. Hodge said the rate increase would allow the district to build reserves that could be used for those projects.
Miller asked Hodge to provide a water balance report to help inform decisions about capital projects. Miller pointed out that the district’s wells had not been properly maintained 10 years ago. “They were left to corrode,” he said. He added he did not feel good about forecasting expenses for projects that might not be needed. Miller proposed waiting until money had been spent before raising rates. Hodge said the district had $3 million in the bank and could not issue bonds based on revenue. Any bond would need voter approval.
Director Scott McCollough said he considered water tank rehabilitation the first priority, fire mitigation at the Willow Creek Ranch to be the second priority, and the Loop water reuse project to be the third priority. George said he thought all the capital projects were necessary and kicking the can down the road would increase costs.
McCollough said he had a visceral reaction to a rate increase of 9.25%, and he suggested extending the timeline for addressing capital projects. Superintendent of Water Operation Ronny Wright said prices
were rising quickly and the district needed to address issues not handled by previous boards.
Hodge argued that the board could wait until emergency expenditures were needed or it could budget for problems before they occur. He gave the recent sudden failure of Well 1A as an example of an unexpected cost and said DWSD could lose two more wells in 2025. He pointed out that the district had a policy requiring 180 days of operating funds, about $1.2 million, in reserve. He said reserves could be reduced for 90 days.
Miller suggested a rate increase of 4% and suggested waiting on some of the capital projects.
Hodge emphasized that the capital projects were “what you need to keep the water flowing.”
Miller suggested delaying the ASR project by a year or two to save $4.7 million.
Vanderschuere said he wanted to find savings on capital projects that would reduce the rate increase to a more palatable 4 to 6%.
Helen Malenda-Lawrence of LRE Water, a company that advises DWSD on its wells and well field, said two wells needed to be rehabilitated in 2025 “because they haven’t been run properly and haven’t been maintained.” Video inspection of the wells showed they are “really bad,” she said.
Miller suggested, later in the meeting, that DWSD might want to sell Willow Creek Ranch and use the money for other purposes.
Hodge said he would make changes to the budget and try to reduce the proposed rate increase to 4%. McCollough said he would like to meet with Hodge to discuss the dependencies between the capital projects. Hodge added that five years ago, the district was delivering about 1,200 acre-feet of water to customers but that has dropped in recent years to 850 acre-feet. He said rates need to be set at a level where consumption stays consistent.
Voters will decide on term limits
At previous meetings, the board discussed the difficulty of finding candidates to serve on the board and the problems arising from the turnover of board members. The board asked its lawyer if the board’s four-year terms could be extended, but was told its only option was to put a measure on the ballot removing term limits altogether.
At the October meeting, the board voted on whether it would ask voters to remove term limits. Directors Kevin Deardorff, George, and Vanderschuere voted to
put removal of term limits on the ballot; Miller and McCollough voted against doing so.
Financial report
In his summary of district finances, Hodge reported $200,000 in water sales revenue in September, and noted 2024 was a much better year than 2023 for revenue from water sales because 2023 had been exceptionally rainy. Other revenues were on track, he said, and expenses were below budget.
Operational reports
In his manager’s report, Hodge said Colorado Springs Utilities (CSU) had asked him to reconsider participating in the North Monument Creek Interceptor (NMCI) project, which would eliminate DWSD’s need to treat its own wastewater. Hodge explained NMCI, unlike the Loop, does not offer the district a way to reuse 400 acre-feet of treated effluent. He said he would continue the discussion with CSU.
Malenda-Lawrence reported on the failure of Wells 11D and 1A. Both pumps were at the end of their expected life. 11D is an important well because it can feed the Holbein treatment plant directly, without the need to use the pipeline adjacent to Baptist Creek Road that is subject to ruptures because it rests on rock. Well 11D failed due to corrosion. The district’s groundwater is corrosive, Malenda-Lawrence said. Work on the well to date had cost $25,000, she said; she recommended cleaning the well and replacing the drop pipe. She estimated the cost to rehabilitate Well 11D would exceed $200,000.
The well can produce more than 350 gallons per minute after rehabilitation, she said. Well 1A was plugged at a point where two dissimilar metals met, which caused corrosion. In addition, the well has two small holes. The cost to repair 1A would be similar to the cost for 11D. The well is permitted to produce up to 400 gallons per minute, she said.
**********
The next board meeting is scheduled for Thursday, Nov. 21 at 1:30 p.m. Generally, board meetings are held the third Thursday of the month at 1:30 p.m. and include online access; call (719) 488-3603 or access www.donalawater.org to receive up-to-date meeting information. The district office is located at 15850 Holbein Drive, Colorado Springs. James Howald can be reached at jameshowald@ocn.me. Jackie Burhans can be reached at jackieburhans@ocn.me.
El Paso County Regional Loop Water Authority, Oct. 17 Board hears financial reports
By James Howald
In October, the El Paso County Regional Loop Water Authority (EPCRLWA, or the Loop) board received the results of its 2023 audit and a report on its monthly finances. John Kuosman, a water practice leader with Merrick and Co. who serves as the Loop’s workflow manager, gave the board an update on his activities. The board considered a request from one of its providers to address a potential conflict of interest regarding the Loop’s law firm Spencer Fane. The Cherokee Metropolitan District was repre-
sented at the meeting by Kevin Brown, who replaces Amy Lathen as the Loop’s treasurer. 2023 audit receives clean opinion Kath Fromm, of Fromm & Co., the Loop’s accountant, told the board that the audit of its 2023 finances had received a clean, unmodified opinion and she had filed copies of the audit report with Colorado’s Department of Local Affairs and other states agencies as required. The board voted unanimously to accept the audit report. Fromm said she had sent the board members
copies of a draft budget for 2025 and recommended they hold a public hearing on it at the board meeting in November.
Board President Jessie Shaffer asked Fromm when the Loop would be reimbursed by the El Paso Board of County Commissioners (BOCC) for expenditures that are covered by the money the BOCC received from the American Recovery Plan Act (ARPA). Fromm said she had submitted a reimbursement request on behalf of the Loop and she would check with the BOCC about the timeframe for reimbursement.
Shaffer listed the invoices submitted to the Loop in October:
• Colorado Water Congress dues, $2,050.
• Fromm & Co., $5,026.
• JVA Inc., $3,230.
• Spencer Fane, $7,608. The board voted to authorize payment of the invoices.
By Natalie Barszcz
Progress report
Kuosman told the board that he had worked with Fromm on the draft budget for 2025, and it reflects financial requests from participating water districts beyond the initial $4 million that ARPA provided for the project. He will meet with the county to discuss the Loop’s projected costs for engineering, design, and land acquisition for 2025. He said those projected costs would be used by the county to encumber the ARPA funds that the county disburses.
Kuosman said he was brainstorming with Vidler Water Co. Inc. and Tallgrass Water, a water infrastructure company, concerning how to connect the Loop’s pipelines with existing infrastructure.
Potential conflict of interest resolved
Nicole R. Peykov, the Loop’s attorney, told the board that her firm, Spencer Fane, represents a subsidiary of
Triview Metropolitan District, Oct. 24
EPCOR in another state. EPCOR is one of the Loop’s partners and has asked the Loop to provide a waiver regarding any potential conflicts of interest, which Peykov said were unlikely to occur. The board voted unanimously to approve a letter Peykov drafted waiving EPCOR from any liability arising from potential conflicts of interest. **********
The next regular meeting is scheduled for Nov. 21 at 9 a.m. Regular meetings are held on the third Thursday of each month at 9 a.m. at the Monument Town Hall at 645 Beacon Lite Road. Workshop meetings are held the first Thursday of each month at 9 a.m. at the Cherokee Metropolitan District offices at 6250 Palmer Park Blvd., Colorado Springs. Please see loopwater.org or call 719488-3603 to verify meeting times and locations. James Howald can be reached at jameshowald@ocn.me.
Bond pursued for road widening project
At the Triview Metropolitan District (TMD) meeting on Oct. 23, the board approved an engagement letter for the issuance of a General Obligation Bond Series for 2025 and a resolution to implement inclusion policies and fees. The board heard about operations staff responding to repair a water main break in Forest Lakes Metropolitan District (FLMD), tracking of the district’s well levels, and the steps taken to reach full automation of the Northern Delivery System (NDS) pump station.
The board held an executive session pursuant to Colorado Revised Statutes 24-6-402(4)(a), for the purpose of acquisition of water/land, and 24-6-402(4)(e), to determine positions relative to matters that may be subject to negotiations, developing strategies for negotiations, and instructing negotiators as it relates to claims and possible legal settlements.
Director Jason Gross attended the regular meeting until 6:10 p.m. and returned during the executive session at 7:55 p.m.
District pursues bond for road widening project
District Manager James McGrady said the district has been discussing the need for widening Higby Road for some time, spending time designing the project, and sought an original bid two or three years ago for $6 million. About three weeks ago, the bid was $12.6 million, and McGrady said:
• The cost has been growing exponentially, and the district has had various agreements with the developer to fund the road, with the district planning to use road and bridge fees for the district’s portion of the project.
• The problem is obtaining enough revenue from building permits and growth to fund the road.
• The area is a “tricky spot” on the corner of Higby Road and Jackson Creek Parkway, with a lot of commercial to the south, and existing development to the north. The residential growth in Jackson Creek North (JCN) is typically only about 5075 homes per year.
• The district needs to pay for the road widening project, and eventually JCN will generate enough growth to pay back the cost to the district.
• Issuing a bond will “jump start” the project instead of waiting for enough development to occur, avoiding a possible $15 million to $16 million project in the future, in an area that is an increasing safety issue.
McGrady recommended the board consider an engagement letter for General Fund Bonds to be issued with a low interest rate. The district has a 7 mills Operations & Management mill levy and the debt service fits well within the 7 mills. The project would be financed with about 4.5 mills out of the 7 mills. The district will be required to seek a vote from the residents in May 2025, asking to redirect the revenue without raising taxes, he said.
Nate Eckloff, managing director of Piper Sandler & Co., said a bond question would be structured for the May 2025 ballot for the primary purpose of widening Higby Road.
The board approved the engagement letter for the General Obligation Bond, Series 2025 for about $12 million, between Piper Sandler and TMD. Gross was absent for the vote.
Inclusion policies and fees adopted Water attorney Chris Cummins said in the past the Family of Christ Church, Baptist Road had petitioned to be included into the district, but other residential
and commercial property owners could petition to be included. The addition was ad hoc due to the lack of a resolution. He requested the board consider and approve Resolution 2024-11 to establish inclusion policies and fees.
The petitioner would be responsible for all of the district’s attorney fees, engineering costs, and staff time associated with the consideration and inclusion of the property. Each petition for inclusion of property must be accompanied by a non-refundable payment of $5,000 to defray the costs. If the Board of Directors or the district manager determines the amount is insufficient to cover the district’s anticipated fees and costs, the petitioner would be required to pay additional inclusion fees before any further consideration of the petition could take place.
The board approved the resolution, 4-0. Gross was absent for the vote.
NDS running effectively
McGrady said the district has operated the NDS pump station at 100% since Sept. 11, pumping district water via Colorado Springs Utilities (CSU) about once a week, and the process is working well. The 19th payment of $55,506 to Kiewit was made, and the final payment will be some retainage for the pump station, said McGrady.
Assistant Manager Steve Sheffield said work continued on completing the NDS pump station to include the instrumentation, controls, and operational optimization, and that should make the operation of the pump station fully automated.
Water Utilities Superintendent Gary Potter said the NDS provided about 79% of the water produced in September, with only 21% from the wells. The groundwater wells and treatment filters will be run minimally on a rotating basis to ensure the district can utilize the wells when needed, said Potter.
Water rights decreed McGrady said the Bale Ditch change case was decreed on Oct. 8, and all of the district’s water rights are decreed with the exception of the Excelsior Ditch water rights. A meeting with the experts indicates a clear path forward to decree the last of the water rights, he said. Note: The district purchased water rights with multiple entities over a period of time for the purpose of delivering water to the district via the NDS. A decreed water right is the legal claim to the water that is secured by a water court decree. Legal documents define the amount, priority, location, and use of the water rights.
Recharge ponds under construction
McGrady said the construction of the recharge ponds on the Chicago Springs Ranch property in Buena Vista for the Arkansas Valley Irrigation Canal began on Oct. 23. The ponds allow water to be returned back to the system for the Historic Consumptive Use (HCU) and the Historic Return Flows (HRF), he said.
Note: The HCU is a measure of the actual beneficial use of a water right over a period of time. The HRF is the portion of unused water, captured to be returned downstream for other users.
District tracks well levels
Potter provided the board with historical well level data for the district’s Arapahoe Aquifer wells 7 and 8, and said:
• The groundwater wells show a decrease in dynamic or pumping level over the past decade.
• Most of the wells show a decrease in static or recharge level over the past decade.
• The recharge rate of the wells will be closely
tracked now that the district is minimally operating the wells.
It is hard to determine what the long-term static levels will be, but it is timely that the NDS is delivering the district’s water, said Potter.
Treasurer/Secretary James Barnhart said he was curious to see if the wells recover with less usage.
Potter said a graph shows a 10-year cycle using some historical handwritten records with limited data. The records are a good depiction, but they do not say how long the wells were run and how much water was pumped. The district has been monitoring for two months, but eventually monitoring might reveal if the wells can recover, he said.
Water utilities update
Potter said the district produced about 47.593 million gallons (MG) of water in Sept. 2024, with 43.864 MG billed to customers. Unbilled water represents a 6.25% loss for September 2024; it was 9.7% in September 2023. The district is still working on lowering the loss, said Potter.
McGrady said the district has about 20 Badger meters to install in residential homes, and next year the district will make a concerted effort to install new meters in the commercial properties and the inground irrigation meters. The new meters will help the district pin down the water loss to a minimum, a task that is critical now that CSU conveys, treats, and delivers the district’s water via the NDS, he said.
Financial update
The board unanimously approved the September 2024 financial report and 30 checks over $5,000 totaling about $1.713 million. Of note was the payment of $314,234 to CSU for the district’s residential and commercial water for the first month (includes additional startup costs).
The board accepted the financial report, 4-0.
District responds to water main break Potter said the operations staff responded to a large water main break on Forest Lakes Drive on Oct. 2. Staff managed the emergency with an outstanding team effort, got the break under control and kept the plant running in a limp mode to provide everyone with water except for three Forest Lakes Metropolitan District customers he said. The contractor was able to get the plant up and running quickly, he said. Higby Road repaired McGrady said the district repaired the wavy patch on Higby Road that occurred after the installation of the 12-inch pipeline. It drives smoothly now, he said.
Executive session
The board moved into an executive session at 7:28 p.m., pursuant to Colorado Revised Statutes section 24-6-402(4)(a), for the purpose of acquisition of water/land, and 24-6-402(4)(e), for the purpose of determining the positions relative to matters that may be subject to negotiations, developing strategies for negotiations, and instructing negotiators as it relates to claims and possible legal settlements.
Sheffield confirmed to this reporter that after the meeting returned to the regular session at 9:06 p.m., no action was taken. **********
Meetings are usually held on the third Thursday of the month at the district office at 16055 Old Forest Point, Suite 302. The next regular board meeting is scheduled for Nov. 21 at 5:30 p.m. For meeting agendas, minutes, and updates, visit https://triviewmetro.com. Natalie Barszcz can be reached at nataliebarszcz@ocn.me.
El Paso Board of County Commissioners, Oct. 8 and 15 County presents its 2025 preliminary balanced budget
By Helen Walklett
During October, the El Paso Board of County Commissioners (BOCC) heard proposals for the 2025 county budget. The commissioners also voted to appoint Commissioner Carrie Geitner as chair. Current Chair Cami Bremer is preparing to leave for a new role in 2025.
2025 preliminary balanced budget
The county Financial Services Department presented the preliminary balanced budget at the Oct 8 BOCC meeting.
Bret Waters, county administrator, said, “I am pleased to present a conservative budget that emphasizes public safety, roads, and stormwater infrastructure.” He added, “We also submit a responsible budget with healthy financial reserves.”
Nikki Simmons, chief financial officer, stated that the budget’s priorities were to ensure a stable financial future for the county.
The $530.8 million budget prioritizes investments in road infrastructure and public safety. It includes a one-time allocation of $12 million into roads for resurfacing, construction, and safety improvement projects. This investment is part of a multi-year plan to address the existing backlog and brings the 2025 road and bridge allocation to $41.3 million.
The proposed budget also includes $4.5 million toward courthouse infrastructure to increase capacity in anticipation of the allocation of additional judges, $4.2
million for a stormwater improvement project, and $1.2 million to public safety departments and offices.
It includes a $8.25 million TABOR refund. If approved, residential property taxpayers will receive an equal share of this refund on their 2025 property tax bill, amounting to about $36 per residential property. The county has also announced a 13.7% reduction in the 2025 property tax mill levy due to TABOR, which will provide tax relief to all property owners.
The budget also proposes maintaining $9.23 million in emergency reserves.
Bremer commented, “We’re in a really great place. In an unsure economic environment, I see a very sure thing in how El Paso County will continue to serve its citizens.”
At two other BOCC hearings in October, county departments and offices set out their critical needs. The public is encouraged to participate in the budgetsetting process and may attend and comment at the budget hearings Nov. 5 and Dec. 10 or directly with officials. The BOCC will give its final direction on the budget at the Nov. 5 meeting. The budget is scheduled to be adopted at the Dec. 10 meeting.
The preliminary budget and all supporting documents can be viewed on the county website at https:// admin.elpasoco.com/financial-services/budget-finance/county-budget/
Geitner appointed chair
Also at the Oct. 8 meeting, the commissioners voted to appoint Geitner as chair for the remainder of 2024 with immediate effect. Geitner replaces Bremer, who will assume the role of vice chair for the remainder of the year. The leadership change follows Bremer’s announcement that she will transition into her new role as CEO of Pikes Peak United Way in early 2025 and is intended to ensure a smooth transition.
The two will serve in these roles until the Jan. 14, 2025 BOCC meeting, when the commissioners will elect their 2025 leadership.
Planning Commission reappointment
Also in October, the commissioners voted to reappoint Eric Moraes to the county Planning Commission. His second term will run until Oct. 8, 2027. **********
The El Paso County Board of County Commissioners (BOCC) usually meets every Tuesday at 9 am at Centennial Hall, 200 S. Cascade Ave., Suite 150, Colo. Springs. Agendas and meetings can be viewed at www. agendasuite.org/iip/elpaso. Information is available at 719-520-643. BOCC land use meetings are normally held the second and fourth Thursdays of the month (as needed) at 1 pm in Centennial Hall. Helen Walklett can be reached at helenwalklett@ocn.me
El Paso County Planning Commission, Oct. 17
Two Tri-Lakes developments recommended for approval
By Helen Walklett
During October, the El Paso County Planning Commission recommended for approval development requests for the final portion of the Settlers Ranch development north of Hodgen Road and the Waterside at Lake Woodmoor development off Woodmoor Drive.
Settlers Ranch
At their Oct. 17 meeting, the commissioners heard requests for a rezone and final plat for the final portion of the Settlers Ranch development. A total of 24 singlefamily residential lots would be created.
The 78.71-acre property is situated north of Hodgen Road, west of Steppler Road and east of the currently developed part of Settlers Ranch, which consists of single-family detached lots varying between 2.5 and 5 acres. The development adjoins the Abert Ranch and Settlers View subdivisions to the north. The property is in two separated areas that are joined and served by Settlers Ranch Road.
The El Paso Board of County Commissioners (BOCC) approved the Settlers Ranch development in January 2005 for a total of 86 single-family lots. The current application to rezone from planned unit development (PUD) to RR-2.5 (residential rural), concerns only the 53.53-acre part of the property to the north and west. It would add six lots to this part of the development, which was originally planned to have 10,
WIA, Oct. 23
Board approves budget, dues increase
By Jackie Burhans
At its regular board meeting on Oct. 23, the Woodmoor Improvement Association (WIA) board approved its 2025 budget, which included an increase in annual dues.
The board also heard about a development just north of the YMCA along with director reports. 2025 budget increases dues
President Brian Bush said the board has looked at the budget for next year, which includes a proposed increase to $299.50 in dues, which is just under the 3% maximum allowed. The budget proposed salary increases for staff with a cost-of-living adjustment (COLA) of 3%, noting that the Consumer Price Index (CPI) for Denver/Boulder is slightly less, but WIA has not been able to grant increases to match inflation in recent years. The budget is balanced and will be posted on the website, he said.
Vice President Peter Bille said that, in addition to salaries, insurance plays a big part in the increased dues. Bush concurred, saying that insurance prices have gone up nationwide but are a requirement for the organization.
The board unanimously approved the budget. Development north of YMCA Bush said he had been approached by the developer of the 11 acres just north of the YMCA in Woodmoor Placer Tract B. They may ask the board to change covenants to include light commercial, which the board can do per the KAB Pankey agreement of 1999. This development will also include a new fire station.
For more on developments in Woodmoor, see www.woodmoor.org/woodmoor-developments.
Board highlights
• Bille reported that WIA experienced computer issues in the past week which delayed staff responses. Those issues have been resolved.
• Secretary and Director of Community Outreach Rick DePaiva said WIA would repeat its holiday lighting contest this year with winners in three categories, each receiving $100 Mountain View Electric Association (MVEA) credits. Watch for details in the November eBlast; sign up at woodmoor.org.
• Treasurer Pete Giusti reported that income and expenses were on target.
• Homeowner Association (HOA) Administrator Denise Cagliaro noted that the November meeting was moved to Nov. 20 and the December meeting to Dec. 18 due to holidays. She also noted that the new website has launched.
• Director of Covenant Control Sue Leggiero reported 457 covenant violations in September, primarily regarding tall grass and noxious weeds along with nine HOA checks. No covenant hearings were scheduled for October or November.
• Director of Public Safety Brad Gleason advised residents that bears are very active right now and they should not leave trash cans out. He also recommended not leaving keys in cars whether or not they are running.
• Director of Architectural Control Ed Miller reported a 2.5% increase in projects submitted to the Architectural Control Committee with the majority approved by the administrator for a total rate of 99.8% approved.
• Director of Forestry Cindy Thrush thanked residents who called and wrote to support efforts for a new fire mitigation grant, which has been submitted to the state for consideration.
• Director of Common Areas Steve Cutler said prairie dog mitigation was completed on Sept. 16, and the second mowing of common areas occurred the week of Oct. 21.
• Bush asked Cagliaro to prepare an accounts payable detailing who owed money, how much and for how long, noting that the outstanding balance was $75,000.
**********
The WIA Board of Directors usually meets at 7 p.m. on the fourth Wednesday of each month in the Barn at 1691 Woodmoor Drive, Monument. The next meeting will be held on Nov. 20 due to the holiday. The WIA calendar can be found at www.woodmoor.org/wia-calendar/. WIA board meeting minutes will be posted at www.woodmoor.org/meeting-minutes. Jackie Burhans can be reached at jackieburhans@ocn.me.
therefore increasing the total number of lots to 92.
In their letter of intent, the applicant states that the character of the area has changed and an RR-2.5 zoning would now provide consistency with the surrounding area. Under the original PUD zoning, lots in this portion would have ranged from 3 to 5.5 acres.
The 22.51-acre portion of the property to the south and west would remain as a PUD with eight lots varying from 2.5 to 2.74 acres.
Waterside at Lake Woodmoor
Also at the Oct. 17 meeting, the commissioners heard rezone and preliminary plan requests for the proposed 44-single family townhome development, Waterside at Lake Woodmoor. The property is east of Woodmoor Drive and south of Deer Creek Road and borders the lake to its east.
The property is part of a development plan for the Waterside Condominiums, which were approved by the BOCC in 1983. This would have seen 83 condominiums built, but the development never moved forward. In 2023, the current owner proposed a rezone and preliminary plan that would have seen 52 single-family town homes developed. The application was recommended for approval by the Planning Commission by a vote of 6-1 but was withdrawn by the applicant before the BOCC hearing. This new application proposes eight fewer units. See https://ocn.me/v23n6.htm#epcpc.
The rezone application requests that the 7.53-acre property be rezoned from R-4 (planned development) to PUD. Approval of the preliminary plan would mean that subsequent final plats and other agreements could be approved administratively.
The proposed units would be attached and each would have a two-car garage. The density would be significantly lower than the 1980s plan at 5.84 dwelling units per acre. Just over an acre of land would be donated to the Woodmoor Improvement Association to provide a buffer to the existing single-family residential neighborhood to the south.
The commissioners voted unanimously to recommend the applications for approval, and they are now due to be heard at the BOCC land use meeting on Nov. 14.
**********
The El Paso County Planning Commission normally meets the first and (as required) the third Thursday of each month at the Regional Development Center, 2880 International Circle, Colo. Springs. Meetings are livestreamed on the El Paso County News and Information Channel at www.elpasoco.com/news-informationchannel. Information is available at 719-520-6300 and https://planningdevelopment.elpasoco.com/planningcommunity-development/2024-hearings-schedule/. Helen Walklett can be reached at helenwalklett@ocn.me.
October Weather Wrap
By Bill Kappel
For the second month in a row, temperatures were much warmer than normal and precipitation was below normal in October. This mild and dry pattern is typical of a fall season when we are entering into a La Niña pattern. This generally produces a large and persistent ridge of high pressure over the Southwestern U.S. This keeps the storm track to our north and prevents any intrusions of cold air. This has been the pattern so far in both September and October.
However, as the fall progresses and we head into winter, colder air to our north will start to take over and the ridge of high pressure will begin to weaken and retreat to the south. This will allow intrusion of colder air move in. So, after a slow start to the season, plan for a return to more normal, i.e. colder, weather to start as we head into winter.
Given all this, it’s not surprising that the only day in the first two weeks of the month with below normal temperatures was Oct. 1st and even then, temperatures were not cold, with highs in the mid-60s after morning lows in the upper 30s. From then through the 18th temperatures were above average every day, with the warmest temperatures from the 8th through the 12th. Highs reached into the low to mid-80s on the 2nd and 5th, then were consistently in the mid to upper 70s from the 7th through the 16th.
The one good aspect of the quiet and dry weather was an extended fall season where the fall colors were allowed to peak without any interference from cold and snow. Hopefully you had a chance to enjoy the scenery because you know it won’t last. The only interesting weather during this time was the fact that we saw our first below-freezing temperatures on the morning of the 16th. This was about three weeks later than normal. And not surprisingly, temperatures did not fall below freezing again until the last week of the month.
The only interruption until the end of the month occurred as a cut-off area of low pressure dropped down the west side of the Rockies on the 17th through the 21st. There wasn’t a lot of cold air with this storm, and therefore we mainly received rainfall on the Palmer Divide. However, during the heaviest precipitation on the
afternoon and early evening of the 18th, some wet snow mixed in over the highest locations. The storm brought several days of much needed moisture, with a half inch to an inch accumulating in most locations. The better news was these systems brought the first significant snowfall of the season to the high country, with nearly 2 feet of snow accumulating over the San Juan mountains of southwestern Colorado.
Once this storm departed, quiet and mild weather returned, with lots of sunshine and above normal temperatures again from the 22nd through the 29th. Then, just in time for Halloween, our first winter-type cold front moved into the region. This produced colder temperatures (although only back to normal) and some snow in the region.
A look ahead
November is generally dry and cool around the region. We usually get several light snowfalls interspersed with sunny skies. Gusty winds commonly develop on a couple of days as the jet stream becomes more active and directly affects Colorado. High temperatures average in the upper 40s early in the month to low 40s by the end with overnight lows often dipping into the teens and single digits.
October 2024 Weather Statistics
0.18” Monthly Snowfall T” (-11.0”)
Highest Temperature 84° on the 2nd
Lowest Temperature 25° on the 31st Season to Date Snow T” (-11.0”) (the snow season, Oct. 1 to Sept. 30) Season to Date Precip. 24.45” (+2.93”) (the precipitation
Cooling Degree Days 0 Bill Kappel is a meteorologist and Tri-Lakes resident. He can be reached at billkappel@ocn.me.
Letters to Our Community
Guidelines for letters are on page 23.
Disclaimer: The information and opinions expressed in Letters to Our Community are the responsibility of the letter writers and should not be interpreted as the views of OCN even if the letter writer is an OCN volunteer. When there is more than one letter, the letters are arranged in alphabetical order based on the last name of the author.
Tax, spend, and tax some more
The Town of Monument is at it again. In the October 2024 OCN, the Monument Town Council (MTC) talked about how to make up a $2.663 million budget deficit. That’s 22.8% of the town’s budget unpaid for by projected revenues.
Part of where they want to cover that deficit is by raiding the Police Department’s budget. This is the same PD budget that voters approved a tax increase for three years ago that would add to the existing PD budget, not replace the PD budget.
But what MTC doesn’t want you to know is that the new Town Charter gives them the right to move that money wherever they want. No matter what promises were made in the past, or in the language of the ballot initiative, they can defund the PD without voter approval.
Now with Ballot Initiative 2A, they want to increase your taxes so that they can “fund the town’s parks.”
We’ve seen that shell game before. We’re seeing it right now. Tell MTC that they need to get their budget in order and stop lying to the us about what they’re doing with our tax dollars.
Vote no on 2A. Warren James
Vote no on Prop. 127
Science as the basis for wildlife management decisions is a core tenet of the North American model of wildlife conservation. This hunting ban runs counter to science. Mountain lion populations are not biologically threatened. They range from northern Canada to the southern extent of South America, the largest latitudinal range of any mammal in the Western Hemisphere.
Likewise, bobcats are widespread across the U.S. and are not biologically threatened. They are the most common North American wild cat species. Also, trophy hunting is already illegal in Colorado, and lynx are protected from harvest thanks to existing state and federal law.
Be an informed voter. Read about the long history of successful species and ecosystem restoration and Colorado’s healthy wild cat populations from the experts at Colorado Parks and Wildlife. The out-of-state extremists pushing this ban claim that lions reduce the spread of Chronic Wasting Disease (CWD), but there is no peerreviewed science that shows lions target CWD-infected deer, and even if they do, the prions are still on the landscape and spread around the landscape by other scavengers.
Lastly, trophy hunting is already illegal in Colorado, and lynx are protected from harvest thanks to existing state and federal law. Supporters of Prop. 127 are using intentionally deceptive language to pass a statewide ban on regulated hunting. Colorado’s wildlife professionals are the experts. Leave the big cat management to them, not out-of-state extremists. Vote no on 127.
Nathan Kettner
Between the Covers at Covered Treasures Bookstore New fall releases
By the staff at Covered Treasures
“Reflect upon your present blessings, of which every man has plenty; not on your past misfortunes, of which all men have some.”—Charles Dickens
Here are some gems that we picked up at the recent book trade show that are a great way to welcome in the Thanksgiving season.
Mrs. McPhealy’s American By Claire McDougal (Sibylline Press) $20 The entire rural town of Locharbert is abuzz because a famous Hollywood director is moving in. Putting two failed marriages, three sons, and a drinking problem behind him, he embarks on
a quest for the uncomplicated life of his ancestors in the home of his distant relative, Mrs. McPhealy. But from the start, the newcomer is eyed with suspicion. The secret life of Locharbert is about to tumble out.
Libby Lost and Found By Stephanie Booth (Sourcebooks Landmark) $28 Libby Lost and Found is a book for people who don’t know who they are without the books they love. It’s about the stories we tell ourselves and the chapters of our lives we regret. Most importantly, it’s about the endings we write for ourselves. Libby is the author of the mega-best-selling fantasy series but is diagnosed with early-onset Alzheimer’s and turns to a young girl to help her finish the book. The conclusion will shock you.
The Hotel Balzaar
By Kate DiCamillo (Candlewick Press) $18
At the Hotel Balzaar, Marta’s mother cleans rooms. Meanwhile, Marta entertains herself, all the while dreaming of the return of her soldier father, who has gone missing. One day, a mysterious countess arrives and Marta begins to wonder: Could the secret to her father’s disappearance lie in the countess’s tales? Book two in a trio of novellas bound by place and mood—with elegant line art by Jâulia Sardáa.
Gather
By Kenneth M. Cadow (Candlewick Press), $18
Ian Gray isn’t supposed to have a dog, but he has adopted a puppy named Gather. An unforeseen tragedy results in Ian and his dog taking off on the run, trying to evade a future that would mean leaving their house and their land. Cadow’s resonant debut brings an emotional and ultimately hopeful story of one teen’s resilience in the face of unthinkable hardships.
Band People: Life and Work in Popular Music (American Music)
By Franz Nicolay (University of Texas Press) $30
This is a story about the other “band people” who are the anonymous but irreplaceable character actors of popular music. Through interviews and incisive cultural critique, writer and musician Franz Nicolay provides a portrait of the musical middle class. Artists talk frankly about their careers and attitudes toward their craft, work environment, and group dynamics. Band People gives voice to those who collaborate to create music and shows what it means to be a laborer in the culture industry.
Nose to Nose: A Picture Book
By Thyra Heder (Harry N. Abrams) $19
Toby is the new dog on the block but finds being new isn’t so easy. At least he finds a nice, smelly ball at the park. There’s just one problem: The ball actually belongs to another pup. Toby tries his best to explain his mistake, but his messages get misunderstood. This picture book by
October Library Events
critically acclaimed author Thyra Heder playfully unveils the currents of communication happening all around us and champions the courage it takes to confront a problem “nose to nose.”
Dogpedia: A Brief Compendium of Canine Curiosities (Pedia Books #9)
By Jessica Pierce (Princeton University Press) $17
Dogpedia is your gateway into the astonishing world of dogs. This enticing, pocket-friendly collection helps you celebrate the amazing tapestry of our shared existence. With captivating drawings that bring the entries to life, Dogpedia uncovers the enigma of dogs, revealing hidden treasures behind every wagging tail.
Mother Aspen: A Story of How Forests Cooperate and Communicate
By Jessica Pierce (Princeton University Press) $17
In early spring, the Mother Tree wakens. Through the seasons and years, the Mother Tree shelters and feeds the other trees, the animals that make their home in the grove, and the fungi that make it possible for the trees to talk to each other. This story of symbiosis is richly illustrated by Crystal Smith and shows how the forest inhabitants thrive by working together.
Until next month, happy reading.
The staff at Covered Treasures can be reached at books@ocn.me.
Book clubs, LEGO program, scheduling change
By Harriet Halbig
The Monumental Bookworms evening book club will meet from 6:30 to 8 p.m. on Tuesday, Nov. 12. This club is sponsored by the Tri-Lakes Friends of the Pikes Peak Library District (PPLD). This month’s selection is Tom Lake by Ann Patchett. All are welcome to attend.
The Monumental Readers book club will meet from 10:30 to 12:30 on Friday, Nov. 15. This month’s selection is Midnight in the Garden of Good and Evil by John
Berendt. This club is sponsored by the Friends of PPLD and all are welcome.
Patrons age 5 to 12 are welcome to attend the Monument Library Idea Lab: LEGO Build: Engineering your best LEGO creation. Completing LEGO challenges and producing LEGO art are only some of the possibilities at this open-ended LEGO program using PPLD’s LEGO resources. Many virtual programs are also available through the library district. These include information about geneal-
ogy and author visits. See the website ppld.org under programs for further information.
Please note that all library facilities will close at 6 p.m. on Wednesday, Nov. 27 and remain closed all day on Nov. 28 for Thanksgiving. Libraries will be open regular hours on Friday, Nov. 29. Harriet Halbig may be reached at harriethalbig@ocn.me.
How the star and Town Hall became historic places
By Marlene Brown
The Palmer Lake Historical Society (PLHS) held its monthly membership meeting at the Palmer Lake Town Hall on Oct. 17. Longtime resident of the Palmer Divide area and friend of the PLHS Jack Anthony, and his wife Margo, explained how they were able to get the Palmer Lake Star and the Palmer Lake Town Hall placed on the Register of Historic Places on behalf of PLHS.
The Colorado State Register program is administered by the Office of Archeology and Historic preservation within History Colorado, which maintains the official list of historic properties. See historycolorado.org/Coloradostate-register-historic-properties.
The Palmer Lake Star
First they applied to have the Palmer Lake Star be accepted and then the Town Hall. The Town of Palmer Lake, the owner of the star, and Mayor Nikki McDonald consented to have Jack Anthony apply to History Colorado in October 2012, and the application was approved by the Review Board in January 2013.
The star was constructed in 1935. It took three months initially to build by several volunteers including Gilbert Wolf, Floyd Bellinger, George Sill, and Jesse Krueger and sons Orville, Kenny and Harry. After many tries and work-arounds with the technology of the day, the star was lit in mid-December 1935 and every year since from Dec. 1 to Jan. 1 and on special occasions.
The Krueger sons were tasked every year to hike up Sundance Mountain where the star resides and change burned-out lightbulbs. Later the Volunteer Fire Department took on the maintenance of the star and now holds a chili supper fundraiser the Saturday after Thanksgiving at the Town Hall to raise money for replacing wires and poles as needed. The star has been viewed and enjoyed by travelers between Denver and Colorado Springs.
Palmer Lake Town Hall
Palmer Lake was established in 1883 and was a stop for the railroads to load with supplies and water for continuing on to Denver or Colorado Springs. The Town Hall was built in 1914 and has gone through some renovations to
bring the electrical and plumbing to code over the years, but the town has kept the original design in place. It has been home to the Yule Log Celebration every year since 1933. The celebration has become a community tradition and keeps the history alive. See townofpalmerlake.com for this year’s information.
Jack Anthony applied May 31, 2019 to History Colorado have the Town Hall be placed on the Register of Historic Properties, and that was approved Sept. 25, 2019. See historycolorado.org/Colorado-state-register-historicproperties. Upon approval, the town became eligible to apply for grants for maintenance and upgrades.
**********
PLHS is a nonprofit 501C3 and holds regular meetings at the Town Hall, 42 Crescent Valley St., Palmer Lake, on the third Thursday of the month. Membership information and future presentations can found at palmerdividehistory.org.
Marlene Brown can be reached at marlenebrown@ocn.me. High Altitude Nature and Gardening
By Janet Sellers
Trail markers, aka trail blazes
We will soon see some newer trail markers on trees in Fox Run Regional Park. Volunteers with the Friends of Fox Run Park made great efforts recently to put up new, silver-colored markers safely tacked to pine tree bark, (older versions were blue), but the markers have been disappearing for unknown reasons. These are traditional trail markers, especially useful and necessary in snowy, icy weather when we cannot see the actual trail.
Our high desert forest clime is dependent on its skin of soil and plants to survive. When we honor this part of the forest we cannot see, the part we can see has a better chance to thrive amid us humans, the invasive species. The trail markers thereby help protect the delicate forest ecosystem because we can stay on the trail and not damage the ecosystem underneath our big, human, heavily shod feet or the bicycles people ride. Please respect the forest floor, the “soul of the forest” and only step on trail areas. The trees will thank you by living longer and we can enjoy each other for a long, long time.
Berry
propagation
When the berry canes go dormant, it’s the perfect time to snip up some of the canes and root them. That’s one way to get a lot of berry plants. The primary canes are the new growth. They don’t make berries in their first year. There are many ways to root berry canes from the primary canes. Some gardeners say to snip the canes to 8 inches and store them until spring, others say to snip the canes and immediately set them to root in a rooting medium and care for them until spring planting.
Blindfold the Xmas cactus for blooms
Now is the time to cover the holiday cacti to force blooms in six weeks. They need 12 hours of darkness a day at about 55 degrees, so a cool spot is vital. With this 12-hour darkness trick, you can get Christmas cactus to bloom several times a year. Bring them out to enjoy when buds form. If the buds fall off, that could be due to a draft, too much sunlight, water or warmth. They thrive with these tips that seem like neglect. November is also a good time to protect your garden plants and soils with some pine mulch. Six to 8 inches deep help keep them protected over the winter, letting in moisture, protecting the ecologically vital microbiome and even the insects birds need.
Janet Sellers is an avid lazy gardener, letting Mother Nature show the way to enjoy gardening, harvests, and flowers. Please send your handy hints to JanetSellers@ocn.me.
On the Trail (in memory of Tim Watkins)
Above: Thanks to volunteers gifting tomato plants in spring, hundreds of tomatoes have been harvested at the Tri-Lakes Cares food garden. Young volunteers have been helping to plant, care for and harvest the crops. The green tomatoes harvested before a freeze and can be eaten cooked -or frozen as is - and used in any tomato recipe or replace tomatillos for salsa. Frozen green tomatoes can be used over the course of a year. If you have garden seeds or plants to share, please donate them to TriLakes Cares for the food garden. Madeline and Audrey help Janet Sellers in the food garden to harvest green tomatoes. Photo by Janet Sellers.
Enjoy being outdoors, but be prepared
By Steve Pate
On a hike up the Palmer Lake Reservoir trail Oct. 22, I took one of my favorite loops, the Ice Cave Creek trail to connect with the Swank trail and then back by the upper reservoir. I found only a few patches of color left, but the pine, fir, and spruce forest was still beautiful.
I encourage those who are able to explore our wonderful outdoor opportunities in the Tri-Lakes area—mountain biking, hiking, horseback riding—but please be prepared from now through April for challenging conditions.
While it was 70 degrees on my hike, the abnormally warm temperatures may cause one to forget to include important items in your pack, especially if you go off the grid in remote areas. Include plenty of water, warm clothing (hat, gloves, and extra clothing), first aid kit, microspikes for icy conditions, snacks, and a satellite communication device if you expect to be in remote areas where cell phones do not work.
Being prepared allows you to truly enjoy your surroundings, disconnect from daily hassles, and become
part of a natural environment. I am nearing the end of my ability to hike in difficult conditions and will probably turn this column over to a younger outdoors person. I do intend to continue volunteering with Our Community News and will do what I can to occasionally contribute. One thing that I intend to continue to follow is the investigation of Tim Watkins’s murder. The El Paso County Sheriff’s Office has renewed efforts to solve this awful crime from September 2017. Again, as we suggested in OCN last month, if you have any information that might help with the investigation, please contact Jennifer Bucholtz, criminal investigator with the Sheriff’s Office, at 719520-7227.
Steve Pate may be contacted at stevepate@ocn.me.
Right: Upper Palmer Lake Reservoir, Oct. 22. Photo by Steve Pate.
By Janet Sellers
We walk through rooms or sit on furniture, but we take in and look at wall art, sculptures, and vases for respite, for rest, for reliance. In finalizing room design for setting the tone of where we are, we are impacted by many things, and a need for self in safety comes into play. Art can change the way a space feels to us. It is the art that defines and creates a space as it puts in the feeling and ambience where we live, work and socialize. When we think of it, art reminds us of many things that we relate with and react to, but often don’t talk about. Art is subtle and powerful. Calm, restful art and colors support us to relax. Landscapes make a room feel larger and offer the feel of a window to the outdoors, while portraits silently make us feel watched and protected—or assaulted. Active, even strident, images or colors enliven a space for action. Words as art can dictate how one should feel. Still life artworks bring objects into the room’s experience. Even abstract art is neutral but never boring.
Spotlight on our shops, artists, and originality
November is a great month to collect art, and Small Business Saturday (Nov. 30) in
our town should have some impressive options in view—so keep your eyes open for them! Our local artists, art groups, and art venues offer us ways to have art and its pleasures every day. This month, connect with them and enjoy their art, buy some art, and support the arts in your own inimitable way. Be original! Original art lets us feel alive and authentic, and we can change art around our rooms in any change of seasons or spaces.
A venerable legacy for art in our community: Bella Art and Frame Gallery
Our beloved art gallery and frame shop, Bella Art and Frame Gallery, will close in November after 27 years in our community. Famed for supporting our local art scene with art shows, art events, artists, and framing the art we all hold dear, owner Ethan Ahlstrom sent out the message recently to the artists. He explained that for health reasons, he has the business up for sale. Friends, if anyone you know wants to secure this established and treasured local art venue, urge them to do so. You know, it could be a single owner or a group effort.
Maggie Williamson, the previous owner, has been holding down the fort for the past year. She recently shared that
Above: On Oct. 4, the last Art Hop of the season saw the Palmer Lake Art Group open its annual Small Works show at Bella Art and Frame Gallery; this show ran through Oct. 31. Special prizes were awarded to artists for their works, and the public was invited to vote for the People’s Choice Award ribbons, which were a tie and conferred to artists Judy Martin, left, and Ermi Knoth, right. PLAG will continue its scholarship fundraising tradition of selling artist-made holiday ornaments this year at Lolley’s Tasting Room at 174 Washington St., Monument. Photo by Janet Sellers.
she will be enjoying her retirement here in town. When you see her, do say hello and offer your thanks for her stalwart and loving support of the arts all these years!
Snapshots of Our Community
Above: Area residents got rid of thousands of gallons of old paint at the free PaintCare drop-off in Monument on Sept. 12. An estimated 19,200 pounds of latex paint and an estimated 1,600 pounds of oil-based paint were collected. Twenty-two gallons of latex and oil-based paint in good condition were given away. Photo courtesy of PaintCare.
Cemetery history, Oct. 3
Above: The Monument Homemakers hosted a talk on the history of Monument Cemetery at their monthly meeting Oct. 3. Among the topics covered by Michael Weinfeld, right, and John Howe were stories behind the deceased, some unusual causes of death, and the connection between the cemetery and the country’s most infamous prisons. The topics are included in Weinfeld and Howe’s upcoming book, Shootouts, Killings, and War Heroes, the History Hidden in Monument Cemetery. It wll be released on Nov. 30, the same day Howe and Weinfeld will be signing copies at Covered Treasures Bookstore in Monument from 1-3 p.m. The Monument Homemakers is in its 114th year, making it the oldest group still in existence in the Tri-Lakes area. The group meets on the first Thursday of the month at the Tri-Lakes Chamber of Commerce building in Monument. Photo by Tia M. Mayer.
came in second place for Highest Increase in Membership Dues Revenue. It got third place awards for both Highest Increase in Membership and Highest Membership Retention at the ceremony in Colorado Springs. The TriLakes Chamber competed against more than 80 chambers from around the state. From left are Nathan Wessells, Tri-Lakes Chamber director of Membership, Terri Hayes, president and CEO, and Abigail Léger, event planner. Photo courtesy of Tri-Lakes Chamber of Commerce.
Above: On Oct. 3, the Monument Hills Kiwanis Club hosted its annual Empty Bowls event at Lewis-Palmer High School. Hundreds of people attended, raising thousands of dollars for Tri-Lakes Cares (TLC). The event starts with the selection of a local artist’s bowl, then a silent auction and food served by D38 staff and board members (Inset: Bear Creek Elementary Principal Donnell Potter and Lewis-Palmer High School Principal Bridget O’Connor) and is accompanied by local musicians and staffed by volunteers. The Kiwanis’ mission is to make a positive difference for youth and our community. For more information, visit www.monumenthillkiwanis. org or call719-488-2327. TLC is a community-based, volunteer-supported resource center whose mission is to empower families and individual neighbors to reach toward a better tomorrow. TLC helps with utilities, housing, transportation, and medical costs and runs the only food pantry in Northern El Paso County. It relies on donations and volunteers to operate. For more information, visit www.trilakescares.org or call 719-481-4864. Photo by Jackie Burhans.
Amphitheater update, Oct. 5
Above: On Oct. 5, organizers of the Ford Amphitheater (VENU) in Colorado Springs hosted a presentation at the venue for about 100 neighbors, providing a season recap and detailing sound mitigation plans. Despite third-party verification of sound compliance, the team acknowledged concerns and outlined efforts to expand sound barriers, adjust speaker configurations, and refine show hours to address community feedback. Below: Outside the Oct. 5 presentation, 12 protesters gathered to express opposition to the development of the Ford Amphitheater (VENU). In response to ongoing community concerns, Colorado Springs Mayor Yemi Mobolade released a public letter on Oct. 25 affirming the city’s commitment to addressing noise issues. Mobolade praised VENU’s mitigation efforts and announced plans for an independent noise study, pledging to hold a neighborhood meeting before year’s end to ensure residents’ voices continue to be heard. Photos by Chris Jeub.
Janet Sellers is an artist, writer, and speaker, sharing art, design, and innovation for optimal living at every range of interest. Contact her at JanetSellers@ocn.me.
Above: A storm 93 million miles away lit up the sky in our area on Oct. 10. The strong geomagnetic storm on the sun caused the sky to glow purple, green and blue, the sort of aurora borealis you can usually see only in places like Iceland, Greenland, or Alaska. Most people in our area couldn’t see it just by looking up. It could only be captured with a camera or cellphone set with a slow shutter speed. The type of gas in the atmosphere determined what colors you saw. Nitrogen caused the blue and purple glow, oxygen created the greens and reds. This photo was taken with an iPhone14 Pro, shutter speed of 3, looking west at a grove of cottonwoods and ponderosa pines with the foothills in the background. Photo by Michael Weinfeld.
Above: From left, Tri-Lakes Chamber of Commerce Ambassador Leanne Hemenway, El Paso County Commissioner Holly Williams, Battalion Chief Kris Mola, Fire Chief Andy Kovacs, Division Chief of Administration Jamey Bumgarner (cutting the ribbon), Director Mark Gunderman, Division Chief of Community Risk Reduction Jonathan Bradley, Vice President John Hildebrandt, Monument Mayor Mitch LaKind are pictured at the Monument Fire District Station 4 remodel ribbon cutting on Oct. 12. Kovacs said the property built in 1997 was in need of an upgrade and he thanked Bumgarner, Logistics Officer Lt. Curt Leonhardt, and Fire Technician Joe Valdez, the district’s remodel design team, Kevin Schaffer of OZ Architecture, the Flintco Inc. construction team, and John Sattler of NV5 Inc., the owner’s representative services responsible for liaison and management of the project. Kovacs also thanked the Board of Directors, Williams, LaKind, several council members, and Town Manager Madeline VanDenHoek for their continued support and the residents for approving the mill levy that improves the quality of life for the firefighters. Photo by Natalie Barszcz.
Left: From left are Luke Brown, Sparky the Dog, and Connor Brown at the Seventh Annual Monument Local 4319 Pumpkin Giveaway at the Monument Market Place Clocktower on Oct. 19. Dianna Goodfellow of Mutual Security Mortgage Ltd., an Erie resident, organizes and sponsors the free event, traveling to Cooksey Farms in Roggen with a few firefighters and their families to hand cut and gather the donated pumpkins. The group delivered 600 pumpkins to the Clocktower steps, and with the help of other Local 4319 members, the pumpkins were positioned for the event. Attendees voted for their favorite carved/ decorated pumpkin in the Fourth Annual Monument Fire District firefighter pumpkin decorating competition. Food donations were collected for the Tri-Lakes Cares food pantry. Photo by Natalie Barszcz.
Even those with ophidiophobia (fear of snakes) can enjoy the Monument Lake snake.
was
last year with a few painted rocks and has now grown to more than 60. One rock in memory of someone’s pet Leyla has a collar wrapped around it. A black rock honors Air Force Special Warfare. There’s also a rock painted with a dinosaur and snake warming themselves by a fire. The rocks can be found in the northeast corner of Monument Lake across from the new pier. There’s an official-looking sign next to it that says Monument Lake Snake, Est 2023. Photo by
Above: Limbach Park was filled with the sounds of happy children Oct. 12 when a new playground was officially opened. The new playground replaces the old metal equipment with safer, plastic equipment colored bright blue and green. There is now a climbing structure with ropes, spinners, a merry-go-round, swings, (in photo) and a place for kids to create music. The floor is cushy and soft unlike the previous playground’s hard surface. Interim Town Manager Madeline VanDenHoek told the crowd she’d been dreaming of rebuilding the town’s parks since she was first hired 11 years ago. She thanked residents for shopping in Monument because the tax dollars helped pay for the playground that cost about $400,000. The old merry-goround, rocking animals, and framing equipment were auctioned off by the Schur Success Group. A couple from Colorado Springs bought them for $522. Photo by Michael Weinfeld.
Girls on the Ridge Athletics earned the 100+ Women Who Care’s bi-annual donation on Oct. 16. Girls on the Ridge supports the young women who compete in Palmer Ridge High School sports. 100+ Women Who Care members each commit to contributing $100 to Tri-Lakes charities every April and October. The group picked Girls on the Ridge because it says it believes “sports have the power to teach important life skills, build confidence, and create a sense of community.” Tri-Lakes Cares and the Lewis-Palmer D38 Education Foundation were also in the
for
are Girls on the Ridge representatives
and
Above: Jordan and Mia Baez of Colorado Springs were among the over 4,000 attendees of the Western Museum of Mining & Industry (WMMI) Miners’ Pumpkin Patch. The patch was open every Saturday during October. On Oct. 19, many of the attendees selected a pumpkin or two to take home for their Halloween festivities just like the Baez sisters. Attendees also enjoyed a magician act, a ride in a barrel train, a variety of oversize games like Connect-4 and Jenga, and other outdoor activities. Information on upcoming events at the museum is at wmmi.org.
by David Futey.
Photo
Above:
It
created
Michael Weinfeld.
Right:
running
the donation. From left
Kevin Dreher, Heidi Dreher, Holly Dreher, Zoya Scholsser,
Jennica Mabe. Photo by Cathy Wilcox.
By Janet Sellers
Although we strive for accuracy in these listings, dates or times are often changed after publication. Please doublecheck the time and place of any event you wish to attend by calling the information number for that event. Please notify us if your event listing needs to be updated. Do not remove trail blazes/markers You will be seeing some trail markers in Fox Run Regional Park on trees. The trail markers help protect the delicate forest ecosystem because we can stay on the trail and not damage the ecosystem underneath our feet or with bicycles or horses, etc. These are traditional trail markers, especially useful and necessary in snowy, icy weather when we cannot see the actual trail. Our high desert forest clime is dependent on its skin of soil and plants to survive. When we honor this part of the forest we cannot see, the part we can see has a better chance to thrive amid us humans, the invasive species. Please be a good citizen and help us to protect our park from unnecessary erosion. Fox Run Regional Park is heavily used and is located in a fragile ecosystem vulnerable to serious erosion when the forest duff is disturbed. Please respect and protect the park for everyone’s enjoyment by staying on marked and well established trails. A very obvious trail in the summer becomes surprisingly invisible after a moderate snowfall. In winter, a wrong turn taken by the first visitor after a snowstorm can quickly become a misleading scar on the landscape. The silver and light blue rectangles that you see attached to trees serve to identify the only trails to use in the park. Please don’t tamper with or remove trail blazes/markers as they are placed on the trees to identify and distinguish trails and help locate the trails after a snowstorm.The main loop trail uses light blue and silver rectangles. Sub-loops will eventually be marked in different colors to help visitors unfamiliar with the park to find their way and recognize which loop they are on.
Fox Run Regional Park closures
The Oak Meadows and Pine Meadows restrooms at Fox Run Regional Park are being remodeled. Both restrooms will be closed through November to undergo renovations that will include the installation of ADA-compliant fixtures, sinks, and wastewater systems. Additionally, the parking lots and sidewalks will be upgraded to ensure full compliance with ADA standards. During construction, both restrooms and the sand volleyball court will be fenced off and closed. Portable restrooms will be available in both parking lots.
Be “bear smart” and do your part
Secure trash in a garage, shed or other secure structure. Trash bins should only be outside of the secure structure on trash collection days from 5 a.m. to 7 p.m. The majority of homes will already meet this requirement with standard practices. For those who cannot store their trash in a secured structure, they will need to obtain a bear-resistant trash can. Certified bear-resistant waste containers can be provided by your trash collection company, or you can purchase bear resistant devices such as locks, ratchet straps, and more including bear resistant trash cans, that also deter other animals like racoons and dogs. Here is a link from Alaska Dept. of Wildlife video to attach a ratchet strap: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=EmnnwkL7T5Y . Trash can ratchet locks are available for as little as under $20. “Bears are smart and they learn quickly that garbage is an abundant and reliable food source,” said Frank McGee, Area Wildlife Manager for Colorado Parks and Wildlife. “But a diet of garbage is terrible for bears and brings them into close proximity to people, which is dangerous for them and us. “By securing our trash, we deny bears easy meals and discourage them from coming into town. We help keep them wild and alive in the forest, where they belong, not in someone’s garage or the path of a car -- behaviors that can get them killed.”
Deer rutting season warning
The rutting season for deer is typically in the last seven to 10 days of October and into early November. When walk-
By Janet Sellers
Although we strive for accuracy in these listings, dates or times are often changed after publication. Please double-check the time and place of any event you wish to attend by calling the info number for that event. Please contact calendar@ocn.me with changes and additions.
GOVERNMENTAL BODIES
• Forest Lakes Metropolitan District, Pinon Pines Metropolitan Districts 1, 2 & 3 board meetings usually meets quarterly on the first Mon., at 4 p.m., via teleconference only. For dial in access and updates, visit www.forestlakesmetrodistrict.com.
• El Paso Board of County Commissioners (BOCC) regular meeting, usually every Tue., 9 am. View agendas and meetings at www.agendasuite.org/iip/elpaso. Meetings are held at Centennial Hall, 200 S. Cascade Ave., Suite 150, Colo. Springs. Info: 719-520-643. BOCC land use meetings are held the second and fourth Thursdays of the month (as needed) at 1pm Centennial Hall.
• Monument Town Council meeting, Mon., Nov. 4 & 18, 6:30 pm, Town Hall Board Room, 645 Beacon Lite Rd., Monument. Normally meets first and third Mon. Info: 719-884-801, www.townofmonument.org/260/Board-ofTrustees for remote attendance links.
• Palmer Lake Board of Adjustments meeting, Tue. Nov. 5, 5 pm, 28 Valley Crescent St., Palmer Lake. Normally meets first Tue., as needed.
• El Paso County Planning Commission meeting Thu., Nov. 7 & 21, 9 am. Regional Development Center, 2880 International Circle, Colo. Springs. Meetings are live-streamed on the El Paso County News & Information Channel at www.elpasoco.com/news-information-channel. Normally meets first & third Thu. (as required). Info: 719-520-6300, planningdevelopment.elpasoco.com/planning-community-development/2024-hearings-schedule/
• Woodmoor Water & Sanitation District board meeting, Mon., Nov. 11, 1 pm, 1845 Woodmoor Dr., Monument. Normally meets second Mon. Info: 719-4882525, www.woodmoorwater.com.
• Tri-Lakes Wastewater Facility Joint Use Committee meeting, Tue., Nov. 12, 10 am , 16510 Mitchell Ave. Meets second Tue. Info: See tlwastewater.com/index.html.
• Lewis-Palmer School District 38 Parent and Community Advisory Committee (now PCAC, formerly DAAC), Tue., Nov. 12, Monument Academy East Campus, 4303 Pinehurst Circle, Colorado Springs. . Meets six times a year. Usually meets monthly, second Tue., They will meet in October, November, January, February and April. Contact info: tmckee@lewispalmer.org.
• Monument Fire District board meeting, in person or via Microsoft Teams. Special meeting Wed., Nov. 13, 6:30 p.m., Station 1, 18650 Highway 105, Monument. Usually meets fourth Wed. Visit http://www.monument-
Our Community Notices
ing in our area or hiking during deer (and elk) rutting season, it’s important to keep your distance from deer and avoid disturbing their natural behavior. Here are some tips for staying safe around deer during rutting season: Keep your distance: Keep at least 50 meters away from deer. Don’t wave food or phones: Avoid waving food or phones in front of deer. Be aware of hazards: Holiday lights and decorations can be dangerous for deer, especially if they’re wrapped around trees or shrubs. Make sure lights are at least eight feet off the ground and securely attached. Slow down: Be aware of deer on the road, especially as they migrate to their winter range.Keep dogs on a leash: Keep dogs leashed and away from deer. Don’t let dogs chase deer: Don’t allow dogs to chase deer or other wildlife. Check your yard: Check your yard before letting your dog outside. Don’t leave food outside: Don’t leave food outside that could attract wildlife. Tell children to stay away: Tell children to stay away from deer and other wildlife.
Driver’s License Renewal By Seniors
With the implementation of the Driver’s License Electronic Renewal By Seniors Act (HB21-1139), Colorado seniors now have the permanent ability to renew their driver license or identification card online. Information is online via mycolorado.gov. Some restrictions apply to ages 2180; drivers over age 80 require a special doctor statement. Coloradans who are concerned about an elderly family member’s ability to drive should email dor_mvhelpdesk@ state.co.us.
Black Forest Log School needs
your help
Please help preserve the historic school for another 103 years! New exterior damage was discovered. It has exceeded the budget renovation funds. Friends of the Black Forest Log School, a 501c3 corporation, appreciates your donation. Please send a check or bring cash to Black Forest Community Foundation, 6770 Shoup Rd, Black Forest Colorado 90808. www.bflogschool.com
Highway 105A Update
El Paso county construction is expected to continue into spring 2025. The project extends the four-lane section of Highway 105 just east of Jackson Creek Parkway to Lake Woodmoor Drive providing greater mobility by accommodating more traffic. The new configuration will be two lanes in each direction with left and right turn lines; the project also includes multi-use shoulders and pedestrian improvements, sidewalk connectivity, replacement of the traffic signal at Norwood Boulevard, a new underground drainage system and water quality pond, and a new roundabout at the Knollwood /Village Ridge Point intersection. The new roundabout, constructed by Monument Academy, is designed to keep traffic moving and reduce the traffic backups on Highway 105 that previously occurred in this area.
Monument Academy traffic
To ensure a smoother experience for non-school traffic, it is recommended finding an alternate route if possible that avoids this area during the school drop off pick up timesMondays through Thursday 7:00 to 8:30 a.m. And 2:45 to 4:00 p.m.Friday’s 7:00 to 8:30 a.m. And 11:30 a.m to 1:00 p.m.
Donate books to Children’s Hospital
Donate any unused books for the Children’s Hospital in Colorado Springs. Any unused book donation is welcome. Kate Ulmer, a senior at Palmer Ridge High School, is working on a service project to collect new/unused books for Children’s Hospital. Drop off books or cash donations at Covered Treasures (105 2nd Street) or email Katiebugu@ icloud.com for pick up!
WMMI needs volunteers
The Museum of Mining and Industry is currently recruiting for Visitor Services Associates and Guides. Please consider sharing your time and expertise. Volunteers must be 18 and older and pass a background check. For information about volunteer opportunities, please call 719-4880880 or email at volunteer@wmmi.org.
Our Community Calendar
fire.org, for updates and the agenda listing the Microsoft Teams joining codes or contact 719-488-0911.
• Palmer Lake Sanitation District board meeting, Wed., Nov. 13, 9 am, call-in only: 650-479-3208, Access Code 76439078, 120 Middle Glenway. Meets second Wed. Info: 719-481-2732. www.plsd.org.
• Monument Planning Commission meeting, Wed., Nov. 13 6 pm Town Hall Board Room, 645 Beacon Lite Rd., Monument. Usually meets the second Wed. To see the options for remote public participation in each meeting, visit www.townofmonument.org/263/Planning-Commission-Board-of-Adjustment. Info: 719-884-8028. www. townofmonument.org.
• Palmer Lake Board of Trustees meeting, Thu., Nov. 14, 6 pm, Palmer Lake Town Hall, 28 Valley Crescent. Usually meets second and fourth Thu. Info: 719-4812953. www.townofpalmerlake.com.
• Monument Academy School Board meeting, Thu. Nov. 14, 6:30 pm, East Campus gym, 4303 Pinehurst Circle. Usually meets the second Thu. Info: 719-431-8001, www.monumentacademy.net/school-board.
• Lewis-Palmer School District 38 board, Mon., Nov. 18, 6-10 pm, 146 N Jefferson St, Monument. Meets during the school year on third Mon. The Board of Education meeting will be live-streamed on the district’s YouTube channel: www.youtube.com/user/LPSDCommunity, agenda, and supporting documents at https://go.boarddocs. com/co/lewispalmer/Board.nsf/vpublic. Contact Vicki Wood. Phone: 719.481.9546 Email: vwood@lewispalmer. org Website: www.lewispalmer.org.
• Monument Sanitation District board meeting Wed., Nov. 20, 9 am, 130 Second St. Zoom meeting. Find joining instructions on the website. Meets third Wed. Info: 719-481-4886, www.colorado.gov/msd.
• Academy Water and Sanitation District board meeting, Wed., Nov. 20, 6 pm. Usually meets third Wed. Public can join the Skype meeting: join.skype.com/ PAcujKTn7Nrh. Check the website for a link: academywsd. colorado.gov/notices-and-alerts. Meets third Wed. Info: 719-481-071119academywsd.colorado.gov.
• Palmer Lake Town Planning Commission meeting, Wed., Nov. 20 6 pm, Palmer Lake Town Hall, 28 Valley Crescent. Meets third Wed. Info: 719-481-2953, www. townofpalmerlake.com.
• Woodmoor Improvement Association Board Meeting, Wed., Nov. 20, 7 pm, Woodmoor Barn, 1691 Woodmoor Dr. Usually meets fourth Wed. Info: 719-4882693, www.woodmoor.org.
• Black Forest Fire/Rescue Protection District board meeting in person or via Zoom. Regular meeting is scheduled for Wed., Nov. 20, 7 pm. Usually meets third Wed., Visit http://www.bffire.org for updates and the agenda listing the Zoom joining codes or contact 719-4944300.
• El Paso County Regional Loop Water Authority
Community volunteers
Many students need volunteer hours for scouting, civics classes, clubs, or would just like to volunteer for the good of it. Friends of Fox Run Park will have some openings for student volunteers (and grownups, too) most of the year for various tasks. Besides tasks, the group offers information and skills demonstrations for each 2-3 hour session, and celebrates volunteers at the park with annual community events. The Tri Lakes Cares on-site garden in Monument also needs volunteers in Fall, Spring and Summer. Gardening tasks include preparing garden beds, weeding, sowing seeds, and developing the compost. Bring gardening gloves, some tools will be provided on the workdays. Contact Janet Sellers at JanetSellers@ocn.me or Marlene Brown at MarleneBrown@ocn.me for more information.
Silver Key at Tri-Lakes Senior Center
Silver Key at Tri-Lakes Senior Center, formerly known as the Tri-Lakes Silver Alliance Senior Center, has been providing exciting programs and activities to area seniors who have a zest for fun and learning. As the older adult population is growing, our services are in high demand. Volunteers are needed for companionship, drivers, thrift store, food pantry and more. 719-884-2300 66 Jefferson St, Monument. See ad on page 2.
Need PC help?
Make It Work Clinic for PCs, FREE. Donations appreciated. We are gauging interest in helping community members with their PCs, please email us if interested. enable@monumentalimpact.org. 55 Adams St in Downtown Monument. Monumental Impact info: https://monumentalimpact.org.
MVEA outage notifications
Please add your phone number to your MVEA account to streamline outage reporting and restoration notifications. To report an outage please call or text “OUT” to (800) 388-9881. Visit MVEA’s Outage Center before the storm. There is information about preparing for outages, electrical safety, outage reporting, a link to the outage map, and more.
Can you volunteer today?
• Links to local organizations with an immediate need for volunteers are listed on the county’s website, www.elpasocountyhealth.org/volunteering-anddonations, for groups like Care and Share, Crossfire Ministries, blood donations, Early Connections (volunteer from home opportunity), foster an animal, Medical Reserve Corps of El Paso County, Salvation Army, Silver Key, and United Way (ongoing opportunities).
• The Colorado State University Extension office in El Paso County has several opportunities for individuals interested in volunteering. https://elpaso.extension.colostate.edu/volunteer-opportunities/
• El Paso County volunteer-based and nonprofit organizations rely on the hard work of individuals like you. Find out how you can play a part by becoming a volunteer in El Paso County. Get involved in El Paso County volunteering non-profits and organizations! https://www.americantowns.com/el-paso-countyco/volunteer-organizations/.
• The El Paso County Sheriff’s Office Volunteer Program is composed of a collective citizens group with a true and common desire to partner with the El Paso County Sheriff’s Office by volunteering their services while learning more about the internal workings of the law enforcement community. https://www. epcsheriffsoffice.com/volunteer-program-0.
• The El Paso County Volunteer Program is a wonderful opportunity for citizens to learn about the various functions of county government as well as give back to the community. The County’s numerous boards and commissions need your experience, talents and time. https://bocc.elpasoco.com/volunteer.
meeting, Thu., Nov. 21, 9 am, Monument Town Hall Boardroom, 645 Beacon Lite Rd. Normally meets third Thu. Info: 719-488-3603. www.loopwater.org.
• Donala Water & Sanitation District board meeting, Thu., Nov. 21, 1:30 pm, 15850 Holbein Dr. In 2023, meets third Thu., Check the website for the access code for the electronic meeting. Info: 719-488-3603, www.donalawater.org.
• Triview Metropolitan District board meeting, in person or via Zoom. Thu., Nov. 21, 5:30 p.m.,16055 Old Forest Point, Suite 302, Monument. Usually meets third Thu. Visit www.triviewmetro.com for updates and the agenda listing the Zoom joining codes, or contact 719-4886868.
• Donald Wescott Fire Protection District board meeting, in person or via Zoom. Final meeting Wed., Dec. 4, 2:30 p.m., Station 1, 18650 Highway 105 For upto-date meeting information, visit www.monumentfire.org for updates and the agenda listing the Zoom joining codes, or contact 719-488-0911.
WEEKLY & MONTHLY EVENTS
• AARP Black Forest #1100, second Wed., noon. In-person Black Forest Lutheran Church, 12455 Black Forest Rd. All ages welcome. Info: www.aarpchapter1100blackforest. weekly.com.
• AARP Local Senior Social, fourth Wed. In-person Black Forest Lutheran Church, 12455 Black Forest Rd. Info: www.aarpchapter1100blackforest.weekly.com.
• A.A. Big Book Study, every Thu., 7 pm, Family of Christ Lutheran Church, 675 W. Baptist Rd. Call 425-436-6200, access code 575176#.
• Alcoholics Anonymous, every Tue. & Thu., 7:30 p.m. Black Forest Lutheran Church, 12455 Black Forest Road, Colorado Springs, Colorado 80908. AA is a fellowship of people who share their experience, strength and hope with each other that they solve their common problem and help others to recover from alcoholism. The only requirement for membership is a desire to stop drinking. Join us with your questions. Info: bflc@bflchurch.org.
• Al-Anon for family and friends of alcoholics, every Tue. & Thu., 7:30 p.m. Black Forest Lutheran Church, 12455 Black Forest Road, Colorado Springs, Colorado 80908. AlAnon members are people, just like you, who are worried about someone with a drinking problem. Join us with your questions. Info: bflc@bflchurch.org.
• Al-Anon Zoom Meeting, Just for Today Online, every Mon., 9-10 am Zoom Meeting ID: 889 4142 7446, Password 349309.
• Al-Anon meeting: Letting Go, every Thu., 9-10:15 am at Ascent Church, 1750 Deer Creek Rd., Monument. For additional information go to www.al-anon-co.org.
• Al-anon Meeting: Monument, every Thu., 7-8 pm, Ascent Church, 1750 Deer Creek Rd., Monument. Info: Monu-
mentSerenity@gmail.com.
• Amateur Ham Radio WØTLM (Tri-Lakes Monument ham radio Association), third Mon. (except December). All amateur ham radio operators or those interested in becoming one are we, lcome. Tri-Lakes Chamber of Commerce Building, 166 2nd Street, Monument. For details, contact Bob Witte, bob@k0nr.com or www.W0TLM.com.
• American Legion Tri-Lakes Post 9-11, second Wed., 6:30pm, Tri-Lakes Chamber of Commerce Community Meeting House, 300 CO Hwy 105, Monument. New members welcome. Info: Visit website at www.trilakespost9-11. org.
• Art: Open Studio painting, first Wed., 9:30-noon. Donations welcome, Tri Lakes Senior Center, 66 Jefferson St., Monument.
• Benet Hill Monastery: Let us pray with you, walk in the forest, walk the labyrinth, come and visit prayer sites, Group retreats. Sun. 10:15 am worship service, 3190 Benet Lane, 80921.
• Bingo night , American Legion post 9-11 Tri-Lakes, Palmer Lake EcoSpa, 2nd and 4th Sat., 350 CO Hwy 105, Palmer Lake.
• Black Forest Community Church, Centering Prayer Group, first Sat., 8:30-10 am The Old Log Church. Centering prayer opens and closes the meetings with discussion and fellowship in between; open to all.
• Children’s Literacy Center, every Mon. & Wed. 5:30-6:30 pm. Provides free one-on-one literacy tutoring to Tri-Lakes children in grades 1-6 who are reading below grade level. Tutoring is at Grace Best Education Center, 66 Jefferson St. Monument. For more information, to become a volunteer tutor, or to enroll your child, visit www.childrensliteracycenter.org or contact Rachel Morin, Tri-Lakes Senior Center Coordinator, CLC 610-246-1047 (cell).
• Colorado Springs Philharmonic Guild Listening Club, third Wed. Free virtual event. Maestro Wilson will conduct monthly hour-long programs. RSVP at www.cspguild.org.
• Dementia Caregiver Support Group, second Sat. 9:45-11:15 am. Meets in-person, First National Bank Monument ( 581 Highway 105, Monument, CO 80132). Meets monthly, 2nd Sat. Contact: Registration is required, call 800-272-3900 or email khare@alz.org to register.
• Essential Tremor Support Group. Meets quarterly at Colorado Springs Public Library 21c, 1175 Chapel Hills Drive Colorado Springs, CO 80920. For details, contact: Jim Sanchez, 719-660-7275; jimdjs22@gmail.com.
• Fellowship of Christ Church, every Sun., 9 am. Monument Academy East Campus, 4303 Pinehurst Circle 80908.
• Friends of Fox Run Park , Zoom meeting, fourth Thu. 7 pm, email friendsoffoxrunpark@gmail.com, they will email you the link the day of the meeting. Join the growing group to learn about volunteering and supporting the park for forest safety, trails, trees, education, special events, and more. Special events and more, stay tuned! Info: friendsoffoxrunpark@gmail.com.
• Fuel Church Sunday Service, every Sun. Service times, 10:45 am live service, streaming service at www.fuelchurch.org at 11 am. Mountain Community Mennonite Church, 643 Hwy 105, Palmer Lake. Nursery and kids’ service. Non-denominational, spirit-filled. Need prayer? Email us at info@fuel.org. See ad on page 5.
• Genealogical Society meeting, Wed., Nov. 13, 7 pm. Meets monthly, second Wed. Members can log in and get the monthly meeting Zoom link. Guests are welcome to attend, please request an invitation from the PPGS president at www.PPGS.org.
• Gleneagle Sertoma, first and third Wed., 11:45 am to 1 pm. Gleneagle Sertoma is the longest continuously active civic service organization in northern El Paso County. Our regular program presenters address local topics of interest to include local developments, community planning and projects, as well as opportunities to serve your community. Contact Harvey LeCato for meeting location and club information at mbca@comcast.net or 719-331-1212.
• Gleneagle Women’s Club, membership luncheon, third Fri., (Sep.-June), various venues, 12 activity groups, i.e., hiking, bridge, etc. Guests welcome. For information contact Bev Selby, 719-600-1451.
• La Leche League breastfeeding support group, second Thu., 12:30 pm. Partners and helpers welcome (and babies and kids, too) so we can meet our breastfeeding goals together. Homestead Direct Primary Care Clinic, 15455 Gleneagle Drive, Colorado Springs, CO 80921. For more information, contact RachelKLangley@gmail.com.
• Lions Club Bingo, every Sat. (except the first Sat.), 8:30 am-1 pm and first Mon., 5:30-10 pm Tri-Lakes Lions Club’s portion of the proceeds benefit those in need in the TriLakes community. Updated info and location: Jim Naylor, 719-481-8741 or www.trilakeslionsclub.org.
• Monument Hill Kiwanis Club meeting, every Sat., 8 am. www.MHKiwanis.org, MonumentHillKiwanis@gmail. com for details, guests are welcome. Service leadership clubs, Key clubs, Builders Club, and K-kids at D38 schools. Memberships are open to the public. Info: RF Smith, 719210-4987, www.MHKiwanis.org.
• Monument Life Recovery Group, every Mon., 6:307:30 pm, The Ascent Church, 1750 Deer Creek Rd. This faith-based support group is for those seeking freedom from all hurts, habits, and hang-ups. Daycare for children under age 11. Info: 303-946-2659, www.liferecoverygroups.com/meetings/life-recovery-group-3/.
• Neighborhood Net Ham Radio, every Sat., 10 am. Amateur ham radio operators practice for emergencies on weekly repeater nets so neighbors can help neighbors. Sign up at www.mereowx.org/neighborhood-net or contactus@ mereowx.org.
• Northern El Paso County Coalition of Community Associations (NEPCO), Sat., Nov. 9 10 am–12 pm., Woodmoor Barn, 1691 Woodmoor Dr. Members of local HOAs are welcome. Usually meets bi-monthly (Jan., Mar., June, July, Sep., Nov.) on the second Sat. of the month. www.nepco.org.
• Palmer Divide Quiltmakers, first Thu., 6:30-8:30 pm at Monument Chamber of Commerce building, 166 2nd St, Monument, CO.
• Palmer Lake Art Group, second Sat. A variety of art programs are offered after the social gathering and business meetings. Guests welcome. 300 Hwy 105, NE corner of I-25 and 105. 9:30 am. Info: 719-460-4179, www.palmerlakeartgroup.co.
• Palmer Lake Historical Society, Thu., Nov. 21, 7 pm; (doors open at 6:30 pm), Palmer Lake Town Hall, 28 Valley Crescent St. Usually meets third Thu. Contact: Kokesdm@ yahoo.com, palmerdividehistory.org.
• Paper Tigers Origami Classes! Monument Library. Third Fri. 4:15-5:30. All ages - under 12 with an adult. Limit 12 people. Free - all materials provided! Contact: connie.stanton@netzero.com. 719-488-4707.
• Pikes Peak Genealogy Society meeting, Wed., Nov. 13. 6:30 pm: Zoom hangout; 7 pm, meeting starts. Program: attorney Judy Russell will talk about genealogy and the law. For zoom meeting details contact: PPGS President@PPGS.org.
• Ridgeview Baptist Church, every Sun., 10:30 am, temporarily meeting at 9130 Explorer Dr., Colorado Springs, 80920. Info: 719-357-6515 or www.ridgeviewcolorado.org. See ad on page 6.
• Senior Bingo, third Wed. Silver Key Senior Services, Space is limited to 16. participants. RSVP & info: info@ silverkey.org
• Senior Book Club, second Fri., 11 am-noon, Silver Key Senior Services, all are welcome. Coffee & snacks. RSVP & info: info@silverkey.org
• Tri-Lakes United Methodist Church, every Sun. Contemporary 9 am; Traditional 10:30 am. A live stream is available at www.tlumc.org/live. Watch live or replay: www.facebook.com/tlumc, www.youtube.com/tlumc. org. Info: 719-488-1365, www.tlumc.org. 20256 Hunting Downs Way, Monument.
• Tri-Lakes Church of Christ Wednesday night fellowship classes, every Wed., 6-7:30 pm, 20450 Beacon Lite Road, Monument (corner of Beacon Lite & County Line Roads). Info: 719-488-9613, gregsmith@trilakeschurch. org, www.trilakeschurch.org.
• Tri-Lakes Cruisers, first Wed., 7 pm. A nonprofit car club. Tri-Lakes Chamber of Commerce community room, with numerous activities and events each month. Club membership applications are now being accepted and are available on the website: tl-cruisers.weebly.com.
• Tri-Lakes Chamber of Commerce Networking breakfast , first and third Thu., in person or via Zoom 166 2nd Street Monument 7:30-9 am free registration at www.TriLakeschamber.com .
• Tri-Lakes Dynamic Rotary Club meeting, monthly first and third Thu. 6 pm-8 pm. First Thursday via zoom and third Thursday in person at the Chamber of Commerce, 166 2nd St., Monument. Details: www.tlrotary.com, Trilakesdynamicrotary@gmail.com. Guests welcome. We are a service club serving Tri-Lakes. Memberships open to the public. Info: www.tlrotary.com.
• Tri-Lakes Parkinson’s Disease Support Group, third Sat., 10 am-noon, Monument Community Presbyterian Church, 238 Third St., Monument. Info: Syble Krafft, 719-488-2669; Barry (group president), 719-351-9485. If you need any help, please call Syble or Barry.
• Tri-Lakes Women’s Club (TLWC) monthly meeting, third Fri., 11:30 am. Eisenhower Golf Club, USAFA. To become a member, or learn about the club, visit our website at www.tlwc.net Contact Info: Tri-Lakes Women’s Club membership@tlwc.net.
• Women’s A. A. Step Study, every Mon., 6:30 pm, meeting remotely, check for details. Family of Christ Lutheran Church, 675 Baptist Rd. Park in the west lot. Info: 866-641-9190. Al-Anon Zoom Meeting, Just for Today Online, every Mon., 9:00 – 10:00 am Zoom Meeting ID: 889 4142 7446, Password 349309.
• Veterans of Foreign Wars (VFW) Post 7829, third Wed., 7 pm, Tri-Lakes Chamber of Commerce community room, 166 2nd St., Monument. New members welcome. Info: Post Commander and POC Bruce Beyerly, Bruce.Beyerly@gmail.com.
• VFW Auxiliary to Post 7829, third Wed., 7 p.m. Meets at Victory Baptist Church, 325 2nd Street, Suite X, Monument. Guests are welcome to join; if you are a relative of a veteran who served on foreign soil during war or other military actions, you June be eligible. For more information please contact Kathy Carlson, 719-488-1902, carlsonmkc@gmail.com or Linda Lyons, 303-579-8114, lindalyons7829@gmail.com.
SPECIAL EVENTS
• VOLUNTEER TODAY! Our Community News: volunteer mailing days, Thu., Dec. 5, approx. 7-8:30 am. We are all volunteers at OCN and need YOUR help, even for an hour or two, getting the papers ready to mail. Contact AllenAlchian@ocn.me or (719) 488-3455.
• Downtown Monument Shop Local events: Holiday Open House, Nov. 2, 11-4 pm, Black Friday Nov. 29, 10-5 pm; Small Business Saturday Nov. 30, 1-5 pm. Special offers for Dec.: Small Town Christmas, Sat Dec. 7, 10 - 4 pm; Sunday with Santa, Sun., Dec. 15, 11-4 pm. See ad on page 2.
• Covered Treasures Bookstore booksignings, Sat., 1-3 pm, Nov. 2: Ann Claire, A Cyclist’s Guide to Crime and Croissants; Shelley Read, Go As A River Nov. 9: Jamie Siebrase, Exploring Colorado with Kids; Heidi WigandNicely, Energy at Sacred Sites Nov. 16: Reggie Brick, Big Rock; Gina Gallaun, Embrace Your Brave in 30 Days Nov. 23: Julie Bell, Colorado Women of the Gold Rush Era; Linda Duvall, The Lightkeeper; Nov. 30: Recbecca Boyle, Our Moon: How Earth’s Celestial Companion Transformed the Planet, Guided Evolution and Made Us Who We Are; John Howe and Michael Weinfeld, Shootouts, Killings, and War Heroes, the History Hidden in Monument Cemetery. 105 Second Street, Monument.
• The Christmas Shoppe at the Monastery, Sisters of Benet Hill Monastery. Nov. 3-Dec. 6, Tues.-Sat., 1-4 pm. Sun., 11:15 am-12:45 pm. See ad on page 3.
• Kiwanis North Pole at Tri-Lakes Craft Show, Sat Dec., 7, 9-4 pm. See ad on page 10.
• MVEA: youth leadership trip contest deadline Thu., Nov. 7. Info: www.mvea.coop/trip contest.
• Monument Homemakers, bring a dish to share and your own table service, meet at Chamber of Commerce building, Thu. Nov. 7, noon. 166 2nd St. Monument. Info and more about the club: Linda Case, 719-354-6575 for reservations.
• Tri-Lakes Women’s Club Joys of the Season Holiday Home Tour, Fri.-Sat., Nov. 22-23; 10-4 pm, presented by Tri-Lakes Women’s Club and the Fletcher Team. Ticket proceeds go to TLWC grant programs and are available at www.joysoftheseason.org. See ad on page 3.
• Fuel Church Thanksgiving Sunday, Sun., Nov. 24 11:00 a.m. See ad on page 5.
• STEAM Camp full and half day options 3-5th grades. Tue., Nov. 26. Western museum of mining and industry. See ad on page 12.
• YMCA 5K race series. Turkey trot, Thu., Nov. 28; Jingle Jog, Sat. Dec. 14. See ad on page 6.
• Christmas with Bing by Eric Elison, Sat., Nov. 23, 2-4 pm. Tri Lakes Center for the Arts and Sat., Dec. 14, 7-9 pm, Black Forest Community Club. See ad on page 4.
• Alpaca Holiday Extravaganza , Sat.-Sun., Nov. 30Dec. 1, Black Forest Community Club. See ad on page 11.
• Thrivent financial advisors, special workshop, Dec. 5, 6 p.m. See ad on page 6.
• Affordable Flooring Connection, special offers. See ad on page 2.
Content
Articles in Our Community News focus on the deliberations of Tri-Lakes area governmental bodies such as the Monument Board of Trustees, Palmer Lake Town Council, and many of the local water, sanitation, fire, and school district boards.
Unlike papers that try to figure out what the “story” is and then get quotes on each side to presumably lead the reader to conclude what the “truth” is, OCN’s role is to report in detail on public meetings of local governmental entities. We report what was talked about and what was decided supplemented with board packet information. By reading OCN, you can find out what you might have learned if you had attended those public meetings. In this context, “truth” is that the articles accurately represent what transpired at the meetings.
The content of ads, inserts, and letters to the editor in OCN is solely the responsibility of the advertisers and authors who place those ads, inserts, and letters. The appearance of an ad, insert, or letter in OCN does not imply endorsement of the ad, insert, or letter’s content or purpose. While OCN does not knowingly run false ads, inserts, or letters, we do not research the accuracy of that content. Readers are encouraged to do their own research prior to committing to use the products or services offered or accept the conclusions of letters to the editor. Readers with concerns about the content of an ad, insert, or letter should take up those concerns with the advertiser or author.
Contact John Heiser, Publisher, at johnheiser@ ocn.me or (719) 488-3455 with any questions.
• Borders Decks, special offers for November. See ad on page 9.
• Cool Rides Auto Sales, special offers, see ad on page 10.
• Eagle Wine & Spirits, special offers. See ad on page 3.
• Mesa Health and Aesthetics, special offers. See ad on page 2.
• Monumental Med Spa, November specials See ad on page 7. Monumental med spa Black Friday specials Nov. 29, 9:30 an-6 pm. See ad on page 9.
• Monument Cleaners, special offers. See ad on page 5.
• Mountain View Pella Windows, special offers. See ad on page 24.
• Noel Relief Centers, special offers. See ad on page 7.
• PeakView Windows, special offers. See ad on page 24.
• Plumb Smart plumbing services, special offers. See ad on page 3.
• Soot busters, chimney sweeps, special offers. See ad on page 6.
• Stubby’s dog wash and grooming salon, special offers. See ad on page 2. • The Living Room Plants, special offers. See ad on page 5.
Restyle Your Furs special event. See ad on page 8.
Tri-Lakes Collision and Auto Service Center, special offers. See ad on page 5.
• Windows Well Covered, custom window well covers, special offers. See ad on page 7. Our community calendar carries listings on a space-available basis for Tri-Lakes events that are sponsored by local governmental entities and not-for-profit organizations. We include events that are open to the general public and are not religious or self-promotional in nature. If space is available, complimentary calendar listings are included, when requested, for events advertised in the current issue. To have your event listed at no charge in Our Community Calendar, please send the information to calendar@ocn.me or Our Community News, P.O. Box 1742, Monument, Colorado 80132.
Paul’s Asphalt Service
Top-quality asphalt paving and maintenance A+ rated by the BBB and great on-line reviews! Hot mix asphalt paving • 5 types of asphalt sealcoating Hot rubber crack sealant/asphalt patch • Recycled asphalt paving Paul Williams, Jr. 719-453-4477 Monument
Asphaltserviceonline.com
Letters to Our Community
Our Community News welcomes letters to the editor on topics of general interest to readers in the Tri-Lakes area. We do not knowingly print letters that are substantially the same as letters that have been submitted to other publications. To ensure that OCN contains a variety of viewpoints, each letter writer is limited to a maximum of one (1) letter per issue and six (6) letters within a twelve (12)month period. To submit a letter, please:
• Email your letter, preferably as an attached Microsoft Word document, to editor@ocn.me or mail a copy to Our Community News, P.O. Box 1742, Monument, CO 80132-1742.
• Identify your submission as a letter to the editor and confirm that it has not been submitted to any other publication.
• Include a suggested headline or title that summarizes the topic you are addressing.
• Limit your letter to no more than 300 words including your suggested headline and closing.
• Include your full name, home address, phone numbers, and email address, if you have one. Only your name will be published.
• Submit your letter so we receive it no later than midnight, Friday, two weeks prior to the publication date.
If you have not received an acknowledgement two days after your email submission or one week after you mailed your letter, please contact John Heiser, Publisher, at (719) 488-3455 or editor@ocn.me. At OCN’s sole discretion, we may ask you for clarification of your statements. Include references, such as website links, in your letter for any facts and figures you cite. OCN does not guarantee every letter will appear in print or on-line and does not guarantee a publication date. The number of letters printed on a particular topic or in a particular issue may be limited. Letters containing personal attacks or endorsements for or complaints about individuallynamed commercial products or services will not be published.
Look for our next issue
Saturday, Dec. 7
Ad space reservations due: Fri., Nov. 15
Finished ad artwork due: Fri., Nov. 22
Letters to the editor due: Fri., Nov. 22
Calendar items due: Fri., Nov. 29
Visit our website to read, download, and search all the back issues at WWW.OCN.ME
OCN is published on the first Saturday of each month by Colorado Cooperative Association
Our Community News, Inc.
John Heiser, President (719) 488-3455—FAX: (828) 649-2720
Advertising: ads@ocn.me
Back issues: www.ocn.me
Editorial content: editor@ocn.me
Event information: calendar@ocn.me
© Copyright 2001-2024
Our Community News, Inc. P.O. Box 1742 Monument, Colorado 80132-1742 All rights reserved.
Our advertisers’ willingness to advertise in OCN makes free distribution of this newspaper possible. Please let them know you saw their ad in OCN when patronizing their business!
Thank you for your support! Please shop Tri-Lakes and Black Forest businesses!
