OCN Our Community News
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 21 to 23 for event locations and other details of these and many other local events.
• OCN mailing day, Thu., Jan. 30 & Feb. 27, approx. 7-8:30 am.
• Donala Water and Sanitation District, election to waive director term limits, Tue., Feb. 4, 7 am-7 pm. Donala office.
• Funky little theater: live theater Love Letters, Fri.-Sat., Feb. 14-16, Palmer Lake Town Hall. See ad on page 2.
• Palmer Lake Historical Society, Thu., Feb 20, 7-8 pm (doors open at 6:30) Palmer Lake Townhall, 42 Valley Crescent. Nikki Stratton tells the story of her grandfather Donald Stratton, survivor of the Pearl Harbor attack.
• Super Saturday geology day at WMMI, Sat., Feb. 22 See wmmi.org.
• Restyle Your Fur, Mon.-Tue., Feb. 24-25. Love Shop, 251 Front Street. See ad on page 8.
• School district 38 Chess Tournament, Sat., Mar. 8 Bear Creek elementary School
• NEPCO, Sat., Mar. 8, 10 am–12 pm.
• MVEA board nomination questionnaires due, Thu., Mar. 13. See mvea.coop
• Updated Monument History talk , Fri., Mar. 21, 11-12:30 pm, Silver Key Senior Center.
• Spring STEAM Camp at WMMI, Tue.-Thu., Mar. 25-7 See ad on page 12.
Fourth Annual Palmer Lake Outdoor Classic, Jan. 21
Lewis-Palmer D38 Board of Education, Jan. 21 Superintendent resigns; Grace Best School to be demolished
By Jackie Burhans
At its Jan. 21 meeting, the LewisPalmer D38 Board of Education accepted the superintendent’s resignation, voted to demolish Grace Best Education Center, and accepted a letter of intent from Tri-Lakes Cares (TLC) to purchase land from the district. The board also recognized two students and a community partner. The district’s principals recognized the board.
Superintendent resigns
Board Treasurer Ron Schwarz, saying he intended to vote yes, asked that the consent item agenda relating to Superintendent Stacie Datteri’s resignation be pulled out for discussion. He commented that Datteri did the consummately professional thing upon reaching an impasse and put the students first. Board
President Tiffiney Upchurch said she was grateful for Datteri’s contributions and that the next step would be discussed at the February work session. She noted that some working relationships had not developed as hoped.
The board voted unanimously to accept Datteri’s resignation. Her resignation letter and separation agreement were posted in Boarddocs here: https://bit.ly/d38-supt-resign. According to the agreement, Datteri will receive a severance payment of $225,000, equal to one year’s salary.
D38 (Cont. on 2)
Palmer Lake Board of Trustees, Jan. 9 and 23 Lakeview Heights development raises safety concerns
By James Howald and Jackie Burhans
D38 News 1-6
Palmer Lake News 1, 7-9
Monument News 9-10
Fire District News 1, 10-12
Water & San District News 12-15
County News 15
HOA News 15
Letters 16
Columns 16-18
Snapshots 18-20
Notices and Calendar 21-23
OCN Info 1, 15, 21, 23, 24
At its first meeting in January, the Palmer Lake Board of Trustees held a public hearing on an application for a master plan re-subdivision of Lakeview Heights, a proposed development that would consist of 100 lots just east of the New Santa Fe Regional Trail and southeast of Star View Circle. The hearing was followed by a vote to continue the matter and allow Eric Sepp, the developer, to address issues raised during the hearing.
At the second meeting, Reid Wiecks, chair of the Parks and Trails Commission, presented the vision he and the commission have developed for the future of the Elephant Rock property. Glen Smith, the new police chief, and Judge John Ciccolella were sworn in.
In her administrative report,
Town Administrator Dawn Collins reported on her efforts to fill open positions on the town staff. Both meetings included executive sessions.
Fire safety the focus of subdivision hearing Mayor Glant Havenar opened the hearing on the Lakeview Heights development with a plea for respectful dialogue.
Town Administrator Dawn Collins reviewed the complicated history of the subdivision request, which was originally submitted in 2023. The plan before the board was a re-subdivision of a previously approved, platted subdivision that was never completed by the developer, Collins said. She pointed out the building code had changed significantly since the original ap-
Monument Fire District, Jan. 22
By Natalie Barszcz
At the Tri-Lakes Monument Fire Protection District dba Monument Fire District (MFD) meeting on Jan. 22, the board heard about the district’s desire to step up mitigation efforts in light of the recent fires in Southern California, efforts to stabilize revenue for special fire districts, accepted a petition of inclusion, and set a public hearing for a 106.6-acre parcel of land in the eastern portion of the district. The board approved the 2025 board director election, and received multiple updates, to include staffing and apparatus.
Director Randall Estes and Mark Gunderman were excused.
Mitigation effort requested Fire Chief Andy Kovacs said after witnessing the multiple fires over the past several weeks in Southern California, and having worked in that region for almost 30 years and knowing some of the people that responded to those incidents, it gave him pause for thought on what the district has accomplished over the past four years, but there is a lot more work to be done.
Division Chief of Community Risk Reduction Jonathan Bradley has received many phone calls and emails from concerned citizens trying to find ways to get actively involved in mitigation efforts. It prompted an open letter to the community via this publication and although this community may never see fires of the magnitude seen in California, locally it has happened before with the Waldo Canyon Fire, the Black Forest Fire, and the Marshall Fire in Boulder County, said Kovacs. See letter on page 16. Bradley said a new WildlandUrban Interface (WUI) code is expected to become law later this year,
Dr. Stacie Datteri
PALMER LAKE (Cont. on 7)
Above: Monument Hiking Group on Cap Rock. Photo by Randy Phillips
See On the Trail column on page 17.
Above: First it was too warm. Then it was too cold. Finally, on Jan. 21 the weather was just right, and the puck was dropped on the Fourth Annual Palmer Lake Outdoor Classic. More than a thousand people saw Pine Creek High School beat the Lewis-Palmer Rangers for the second straight year in an overtime shootout. The score was 3-2. The Eagles took home the Star trophy, shaped like the Palmer Lake Star that was lit for the tournament. The event raises money for the Lewis-Palmer hockey team. Photo by Michael Weinfeld. See photo on page 20.
Grace Best decision
Chief Business Officer Brett Ridg-
way and Director of Planning, Facilities and Grounds Melissa Andrews presented the agenda item regarding the future of Grace Best Educa-
tion Center (GBEC). They noted that the same presentation was discussed at a good community Engage and Elevate meeting on Jan. 16.
Ridgway clarified that the goal is to upgrade from the current physical situation while maintaining continuity for the Home School Enrichment Academy (HSEA) and Transitions programs. He said the programs are important to the district, and the current space is not a viable long-term solution. Ridgway indicated that the district would identify temporary space for these programs by Feb. 28 and either identify or construct a permanent facility that meets or exceeds the needs determined by the program sponsors in the 2026-27 fiscal year.
GBEC has a long history, as shown in the presentation on Boarddocs at https://bit.ly/gbec-finalsummary. Parts of the building date back to 1957 and newer portions were added in 1979 and 1988. It has served as a high school and elementary school and, most recently, as the home for HSEA and Transitions,
as well as for the Bearbotics program, the Silver Key Tri-Lakes Senior Center, and community events. Several community meetings and teams have discussed the future of GBEC, including, in 2021, a discussion of converting it to an innovation center.
The age and condition of the building, updated code requirements, and a lack of funding have stymied efforts to determine a solution. Recent legislation has freed up reserves on a one-time basis, and a Career and Innovation Center (CIC) is being created by remodeling a nearby facility.
During the Oct. 1 work session, the board discussed GBEC, noting that the Monument Fire Department’s annual inspection found the building unsuitable for students or programs and required the district to come up with a plan within a year to address concerns.
The presentation shown at both the community meeting and the board meeting presents five options along with associated costs:
1. Remediation of Critical Findings $18.22 million
2. Raze and Rebuild $46.25 million
3. Demolish only $1.30 million
4. Keep 1988 addition only $11.22 million
Awnings, Appliances, Electrical, Solar, LP, Plumbing, Satellites,
Hydronic, Batteries, Hydraulics, Roofs, Trailer Brakes & Lighting, and more… Celebrating over 20years of service!
5. Do nothing $250,000 per year
These options included information on the funding sources that were or might be available and the impact on the programs currently housed at GBEC.
The board unanimously voted to demolish GBEC and communicate to the community plans for housing HSEA and Transitions in the 2025-26 school year and beyond. The board expressed that this was a tough decision that would not make everyone happy, but it is the best decision and helps to avoid an emergency such as that seen at Jenkins Middle School in District 11.
See the GBEC presentation at: https://bit.ly/gbecfinal-summary. Search for
“Grace Best” on the ocn.me webpage for previous articles about GBEC. Letter of intent to purchase district land Ridgway noted that when he first came to the district, the issue of what to do with the land it owns in downtown Monument, which he called the administrative complex, was raised. His first observation was that the district needed to work toward subdividing the complex, and they worked with surveyors to do so last June. The dis trict subsequently conversed with TLC, which expressed the need for a parcel that was different from its cur rent location. Ridgway said he now had a formal letter of intent (LOI) from TLC to purchase about three acres
16055 Old Forest Pt Suite 100 Monument, CO 80132 719-481-0043
of land along Beacon Lite Road just south of Bethesda Senior Center. TLC board President Rich Schur thanked the board and said that, with 8,000 square feet, TLC has staff in closets and food stored in hallways, and it is out of space. Research shows that TLC needs two or three acres, he said, with geographic limitations to serve people without good transportation. The conversation, he said, is to partner
this is a community asset, with TLC sharing space with other organizations, including the district and Silver Key. He said there are many details to work out, but the entire community could benefit.
Ridgway said the district would work with TLC over the next 90 days to pursue steps to formalize the property’s definition and then bring a contract back to the board. The board unanimously voted that D38 ac
actions, and bring back a contract when conditions are met.
Recognitions
The board recognized two students, Lewis-Palmer High School (LPHS) junior Nicholas Berthelotte and Palmer Ridge High School (PRHS) junior Rhett Jones, for achieving perfect scores of 1520 on the Preliminary Scholastic Aptitude and National Merit Scholarship Qualifying Test (PSAT/ NMSQT). Principals Bridget O’Connor and Dr. Adam Frank spoke about the students. Jones was unable to attend due to a college visit. The board presented a commemorative plaque and took photos.
The board also recognized TLC as a longstanding community partner. For many years, TLC has supported D38 students and families through its mission to “provide a compassionate community safety net to ensure everyone has the support they need.” Communications Director Amy Matisek noted that TLC had helped supplement food the district had gathered for a family.
Executive Director Haley Chapin said it was an honor to partner with and help the community, noting that TLC provides school snack packs and that D38 students come to TLC for various projects. Schur thanked the board for its recognition.
Matisek, noting that it was National School
Above: The D38 board recognized two students who achieved perfect scores of 1520 on the PSAT/ NSMQT: Nicholas Berthelotte of Lewis-Pamer High School and Rhett Jones of Palmer Ridge High School. Principals from their respective schools, Bridget O’Connor and Dr. Adam Frank, spoke highly of the students as being well-rounded and humble. Jones was unable to attend the board meeting due to a college visit but Frank accepted the plaque on his behalf. From left are board President Tiffiney Upchurch, board member Todd Brown, Nicholas’ father Joseph Berthelotte, Berthelotte, O’Connor,
Berthelotte, and board members Kris
Board Recognition Month, thanked the board for all it does and introduced two school principals to share their remarks and words of gratitude.
Davonne Johnson, principal at Lewis-Palmer Elementary School (LPES), thanked the board on behalf of the whole elementary team. Referring to the LPES theme of “Keeping on Track,” she welcomed them aboard.
O’Connor represented the secondary school team, which focuses on families, noting its gift of The Giving Tree by Shel Silverstein. She said this book means different things to different people, with the tree giving unselfishly to a boy who is not always grateful. She said that the board is a role model for students by volunteering at a high level and giving in ways that don’t always get recognition.
Highlights
Board meeting highlights include:
• During public comments, Jason DeaBueno, CEO and president of Silver Key, gave its organizational history, noting that two agenda items would impact it. He said the Tri-Lakes Senior Services’ space in Grace Best allowed it to build intergenerational connections with students. He noted that Silver Key had been in talks with TLC about solving the needs of both organizations utilizing the three acres of land. Silver Key is committed and has de-
Photo by Jackie Burhans.
veloped reserves to invest in this community, he said, and wants to work with TLC and supports the purchase of the land.
• Melinda Reichal commented that she thought Datteri could have worked out if given time and expressed concerns that any future superintendent may hesitate to come to the district.
• LPHS students Aaron Weeks and Anna Hacker presented on Student Council activities and goals.
• Matisek presented an update on strategic priority six: Relationships and Communication, reviewing outcome measures and action steps to help increase the net promoter score for district staff and parents and increase community partnerships. Action steps include launching the BOE Recap, LP Leadership Link, and Building Connections newsletters, integrating staff spotlights and kudos and mentioning the Elevate 38 awards into enewsletters. D38 is collaborating with schools to define and populate an initial database of partnerships.
• Assistant Superintendent Amber Whetstine and Director of Innovative Programs Jessica McAllister presented an update on the CIC. McAllister showed an updated timeline and a fly-through simulation of what the building would look like once completed. She also reported on marketing efforts, student interest, and progress on partnerships. Weeks expressed excitement for the CIC, saying that graduating robotics students expressed greater interest in returning to mentor in the new building.
Nicholas’ mom Marcella
Norris, Dr. Patti Shank, and Ron Schwarz.
of the elementary and secondary principals, respectively. Principals from across the district gathered for a group photo with the board. From left in the back are board member Todd Brown, Palmer Lake Elementary School Principal Kim Briding, Johnson, O’Connor, Ray Kilmer Elementary School Principal Greg Saunders, and Bear Creek Elementary School Principal Donnell Potter. From left in the front are board members Kris Norris, Dr. Patti Shank, President Tiffiney Upchurch, Treasurer Ron Schwarz, Prairie Winds Elementary School Principal Rachel Sellers, and Palmer Ridge High School Principal Dr. Adam Frank. Photo by Jackie Burhans.
• The board unanimously approved changes to instruction policies, including curriculum development, home schooling, primary education, academic achievement, early literacy and reading comprehension, and flag displays. The changes align with the Colorado Association of School Boards recommendations and do not significantly impact district operations.
• The board unanimously approved repealing policies on school volunteers and early graduation, noting that the policies are not required and are covered in handbooks.
• The board unanimously approved a new policy IHDB Equivalence of Service as required by federal law.
By Jackie Burhans
Monument Academy (MA) held a work session on Jan. 6 where it discussed bond refinancing, the proposed high-performance program, and board bylaws. At the Monument Academy (MA) regular meeting on Jan. 9, the board voted on the HighPerformance Program (HPP) and heard from the executive director about his action plan.
Bond refinancing discussed
At its Jan. 6 work session, Interim Chief Financial Officer Glenn Gustafson reminded the board that MA has a $27.7 million balloon payment or “bullet” coming due in April 2026 for its 2019 bonds for the East Campus and that it would have to refinance that debt. Although he was initially very critical of this financing, bond underwriters told him it was a very common structure because enti-
• The board unanimously approved the amended budget for 2024-25 as presented by Ridgway. Ridgway said this lets the district account for the final per-pupil revenue and student count. The amended budget details the CIC work.
**********
The Lewis-Palmer D 38 Board of Education generally meets at 6 p.m. on the third Monday of the month in the district’s learning center, 146 Jefferson St., Monument. The next meeting will be held on Feb. 17. For information, contact vwood@lewispalmer.org Jackie Burhans can be reached at jackieburhans@ocn.me.
ties are reluctant to issue 30-year bonds when unsure if a school will succeed. He said this financing structure was an industry norm, although no one anticipated that the market would go from low to high interest as it has.
Gustafson noted that the 2014 bonds cover the West Campus while the 2019 bonds cover the East Campus, and MA is required to account for them separately. Each school is responsible for its own bond. He noted that MA has a couple of alternatives.
MA could pay off the 2019 bond with a longer-term issue of up to 40 years to lower debt service. However, this would not yield much in the way of construction funds. Gustafson noted that MA’s West Campus has a lot of equity. MA could
Above: The D38 board recognized Tri-Lakes Cares (TLC) as a long-time community partner in the district for supporting and partnering with D38 students and families. From left are board member Dr. Patti Shank, President Tiffiney Upchurch, Todd Brown, Tri-Lakes Cares Executive Director Haley Chapin, board member Kris Norris, Tri-Lakes Cares board President Rich Schur, and board Treasurer Ron Schwarz. Photo by Jackie Burhans.Patti Shank, and Ron Schwarz. Photo by Jackie Burhans.
Above: At the Jan. 31 D38 board meeting, school principals expressed their gratitude to the board in honor of School Board Recognition Month. Lewis-Palmer Elementary School Principal Davonne Johnson and Lewis-Palmer High School Principal Bridget O’Connor expressed the appreciation
Read, download, search, and listen to OCN content at our
cross-collateralize and use that equity to subsidize the East Campus. MA would not have two sets of bond compliance rules, as only one bond issue would exist. He liked that idea because it fits the “One MA” notion.
MA asked the firm that initially built the East Campus to cost out a new academic wing, athletic facilities, fine arts facilities, and additional cafeteria space. Gustafson noted that the total cost would depend on what MA picked but that it could not afford everything. He said that once MA issued bonds it was locked in for 10 years and could not go back to the market for more money.
Timing-wise, Gustafson said MA was in a high-stakes game of poker and needed to hit its bond ratios as of June 30. He said MA had always had the required 45 days of cash on hand but had never hit its debt service ratios based on the East Campus’s net income. He said that the finance team has been targeting these two ratios and was on track, but MA can’t spend more money. He said it is a pass/fail test, and the budget is built to achieve that depending on the amount of fundraising from the gala and other efforts. The better MA’s financial position, the lower the interest rates would be, he said. Although the state has a moral obligation program that would guarantee the loan, MA’s finances would have to be much better to qualify.
Gustafson referred to the packet that ana-
Just HelpLLC
Need a hand? We offer personalized, trusted help. Check out what we do and submit a help request at: www.just-help.co
Church the way it used to be!
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
Chimney Sweeps
Serving Tri-Lakes & Black Forest since 1982 719-488-2718
Fireplaces • Inserts & Woodstoves • “We won’t leave a mess” Call for FREE Estimates & Inspections Mention this ad for 10% OFF during Sept.!
save sellers thousands! America’s Leading Discount Real Estate Brokers (719) 487-1777 www.COList4Less.com
lyzed eight scenarios with various interest rates and terms, the impact on debt service, and the number of students MA would need to add to pay the debt service. He noted that the board would have the moral obligation to pay the bondholders whether or not they have the students, even if they have to cut staff or pay. If MA were to default on the bond, he said, they would never again be able to issue bonds. He noted that MA needs 12 more kids at the West Campus, which should be no problem. He said that, depending on the amortization schedule, MA might be able to raise $25 million for construction, but its capital plan is $32 million, so it would need to come up with grants or fundraising. If MA could raise $25 million, it would need to add 213 kids to East Campus. He said the new facilities could attract kids, and they would have to do a lot of marketing. The proposed HPP could help to add kids, but they would be counted as 0.7 full-time equivalent students.
Gustafson said MA had about 13 months to pull the trigger. Interest rates should fall in the spring, and the fall audit would show whether MA had met its bond ratios. This timing would allow MA to issue bonds and begin construction to open the new facilities in August 2027, he said.
High-Performance Plan revisited At the Jan. 6 work session, the board returned to the proposed HPP they had discussed in November. See https://wp.ocn.me/v24n12d38ma. The HPP is a program to educate students developing athletic and creative skills at the highest levels who need more flexibility.
Vladislav “Izzy” Izboinikov, the program’s founder, returned to provide additional information and answer questions. He felt the timing was perfect and could generate numbers to offset the additional students needed. He offered to commit to between 50 and 75 kids, depending on how committed MA is to making the program grow.
The board discussed the size of the pool of students who might be interested, the concern that this might distract from MA’s efforts to return to its charter, and the impact on teachers, among other concerns. Izboinikov said the pool was smaller than Denver but not too small. Executive Director Collin Vinchattle noted that his action plan focused on the academic vision and the curriculum, which would be the same for HPP with some added flexibility. Izboinikov said there would be a learning curve, but he didn’t see a huge spike in what teachers must do. Vinchattle said MA had foundational pieces in place and that teachers already work with the Canvas system that HPP uses and already are flexible with students who take long vacations or miss classes for athletics.
After additional discussion about whether equipment would be needed, getting feedback from teachers, the need for more portables, and adjusting the proposed agreement, the board directed Vinchattle to bring the topic back to the regular meeting with the requested information.
At the Jan. 9 regular meeting, Vinchattle said he was in favor of HPP, feeling that it would be beneficial to MA and aligned with its vision by providing a high level of education to marginal-
asphalt paving and maintenance
Special - Recycled Asphalt! Hot mix asphalt
We
our
ized students who, because they were pursuing their skill in one area were being limited in their education. He reported that he spoke to high school teachers who said it was work they do for all students who miss class and thought it was a neat program. They did express that science labs might take more work, as would Socratic discussions, but teachers felt they could make it work. Vinchattle noted that the program would have a liaison, and that MA would dictate how the program was structured. He said that MA would create an oversight committee and asked the board to provide direction to proceed with building the program model.
The board unanimously voted to approve the HPP direction and creation of an oversight committee.
Action plan
At its Jan. 6 work session and again on Jan. 9, the board heard from Vinchattle about his action plan to address issues raised by MA’s organizational audit. See previous articles at https://wp.ocn.me/ v24n11d38ma/ and https://wp.ocn.me/v24n12d38ma
Board President Ryan Graham said this had been in the works and had been created by Vinchattle and the leadership forum. Vinchattle noted that the leadership forum came together after the organization audit performed by Lis Richard and created an action plan with action steps. Graham said the board had discussed using this as the strategic plan and asked if it would be uploaded to the website. Vinchattle said it would be uploaded to the board page.
The board unanimously voted to approve the action plan as presented to be the strategic plan.
The strategic plan and action steps can be found https://www.monumentacademy.net/ school-board/.
Highlights
Board meeting highlights include:
• Board member Jilinda Dygert reported that the School Accountability and Advisory Committee for East Campus met on Dec. 16 and discussed the parent survey, which closed on Jan. 21. The next meeting on Feb. 3 will focus on survey results and teacher evaluations. Dr. Michael Brom, Lewis-Palmer District 38 Coordinator of Assessment and Accountability, presented on Jan. 28 about the Colorado Measures of Academic Success (CMAS).
• The board unanimously approved minor edits to its bylaws to update the title of chief operating officer to executive director and to add the Simbli platform where MA hosts its board documents as a location for record storage. MA board documents can be found at https://bit.ly/ma-boarddocs.
• The board unanimously voted to change the number of voting directors from 7 to 5, which means the board election will have one position to fill.
• The board modified its calendar to remove a proposed retreat on Jan. 17 and set 6 p.m. as its start time for the work session on Feb. 27 at the East Campus. Board Vice President Lindsay Clinton said she would start pushing out information about eligibility requirement and the application deadline.
The MA School Board meets at 6:30 p.m. on the second Thursday of each month. The next regular board meeting will be on Thursday, Feb. 13, at 6:30 p.m. at the East Campus. For more information, visit https://bit.ly/ma-boe; for the agenda and packet, see https://bit.ly/ma-boarddocs. Jackie Burhans can be reached at jackieburhans@ ocn.me.
Career & Innovation Center Update
continues
excited
&
Center.
one step closer as we have completed the purchase of the Jabil Building that will house our new learning facility. We have the keys in hand and will soon start the process of shaping the interior to serve as a modern, relevant learning environment.
The director of innovative programs visited more than 20 classrooms in January to promote the new facility and to generate student interest. Registration will soon be open for students to begin signing up for courses. So far, students have expressed the most interest in Advanced Manufacturing and Engineering courses.
The facility will showcase immersive experiences for eleventh and twelfth grade students to learn about engineering, manufacturing, healthcare, computer science, and the skilled trades. Younger students
will have the opportunity to learn at this facility also with field trips, camps, and more.
Work continues with rounding up corporate sponsors and grants to provide funding for equipment and state-of-the-art supplies. The pipeline for potential partnerships is growing, and we are grateful for the organizations that are showing interest. Organizations that choose to partner with D38 will receive recognition like naming rights and marketing opportunities inside the facility.
Continue to keep an eye on the Career & Innovation Center page of our website for updates and a new promotional video that will launch soon to help tell the story of what this new facility will bring to D38: lewispalmer.org/page/ career-innovation-center
Chrissy Holmes Insurance Broker
uation plan was a threat to his family.
proval and the proposed lot size had changed from 5,000 square feet to 10,000 square feet. She said the developer does not own all the lots in the subdivision, and the plans previously submitted had two access points whereas the current plan had only one.
Trustee Amy Hutson owns an adjacent property and recused herself from voting on the proposed development. Town Attorney Scott Krob said Hutson could comment on the proposal as a private citizen.
Andrea Barlow, of N.E.S. Inc., a planning and landscaping architecture company, presented the project to the board on behalf of Sepp. She addressed issues that had been raised by the Planning Commission, including a requirement that existing homes within the development’s boundaries install sprinklers. She said Sepp would resubmit a traffic study. Barlow said a second access point to the development was not possible since Ben Lomand Mountain was to the north, the railroad tracks were to the south and a privately owned nature conservancy was to the east. She said the property was not covered with trees and was a moderate wildfire risk.
Barlow argued that, although the fire code requires two access points for emergency vehicles when there are more than 30 dwellings on a single access road, there were exceptions that applied in the case of Lakeview Heights. Because the planned roads are looped, the single access road constraint does not apply, she said. If necessary, residents could evacuate via Lake Avenue while emergency vehicles could get to the property by using the New Santa Fe Regional Trail. Barlow said El Paso County Parks and Recreation had verified that the trail could be used by emergency vehicles.
Barlow ended her presentation by arguing that the Master Plan for the Lakeview Heights development meets the Palmer Lake town code, the proposed lot configuration meets the R-10,000 zoning requirements, the proposal complies with state, county and town regulations, and it is consistent with the Palmer Lake Community Master Plan.
Following Barlow’s presentation, Trustee Shana Ball asked if any tests had been done to determine if the town’s fire engine could navigate the trail. Fire Chief John Vincent said there had been no test but the Fire Department’s vehicles had used the trail. Trustee Tim Caves asked if Barlow had discussed with the railroad whether emergency vehicles could cross their tracks. Barlow said she believed, based on previous discussions with the railroad, that it
would not allow access via its tracks.
Havenar and Krob discussed the language in the fire code that requires, if more than 30 homes on a single access road are present, all homes must have sprinkler systems installed. Havenar pointed out that 50 homes within the boundaries of the development have already been built without sprinklers. Krob said the town could not require those homes to be retrofitted with sprinklers and therefore the requirement for all homes to have sprinklers could not be met.
Mark Morton, of GMS Inc., the town’s consulting engineers, argued that the roads platted for the development were looped, and so did not meet the legal definition of a deadend street. The limitations imposed by a single point of access did not apply, he said.
Trustee Atis Jurka asked Barlow if the developer would dedicate 20% of the land for use as trails. Barlow said that obligation would be met with a financial donation in lieu of land.
After the discussion by the trustees, residents made comments. None was in favor of the proposed development.
• Roger Moseley said Lake Avenue was in fact a dead end. He argued that sprinkler systems would be ineffective in the case of a wind-driven fire.
• Martha Brodzik discussed the Planning Commission’s assessment of the project.
• Mike Beeson questioned the validity of the memo Vincent had written concerning the project, which he felt downplayed the fire danger.
• Jennifer Rausch also claimed Vincent had changed his positions about the fire danger and asked for an independent analysis and an evacuation plan. She argued a second access point was needed.
• Pete Tomitsch said a fire involving 150 homes with a single point of access could not be fought; it would only be possible to evacuate residents. He argued the developer should pay for a second access point, whatever the cost.
• Jeff Hatcher questioned the availability of an adequate water supply, especially if the Buc-ee’s travel center moves forward.
• Angela Dawson felt the development would increase the traffic on Oakdale Drive and asked the developer to put in curbs and gutters.
• Reid Wiecks said the development did not meet the requirements of the Community Wildfire Plan, which has been in place for 16 years. He argued the development should have at
least four access points.
• Amy Hutson said the subdivision would prevent her from accessing her property.
• Bill Dandino said he had difficulty finding homeowner’s insurance for his property on Oakdale Drive and a development with one access point would spook insurance companies.
• Phil Tedeschi, another Oakdale Drive resident, recalled fires that had been started by sparks
NOEL RELIEF CENTERS
A NEW APPROACH TO PAIN RELIEF We offer several new treatment options for pain relief and optimal health.
Welcome Home!
Exceptional
• Kurt Stevens felt the development had not been properly analyzed and the developer should go back to the Planning Commission.
• Kip Murray threatened to sue the developer because the evac-
family
$39 NEW PATIENT SPECIAL *** Includes Consultation with Dr. Noel, Pulstar Electronic Spinal Alignment, Physical and Neurological Exam, and
Welcome Home!
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
Exceptional quality of life is waiting at New Day Cottages. Residents enjoy a cozy, comfortable, caring lifestyle;
Website: www.NewDayCottages.com
Email: newdaycottages@q.com 1577 Turner Road, Colorado Springs, CO 80920 10975 Howells Road, Black Forest, CO 80908
Above: At the Jan. 23 Palmer Lake Board of Trustees meeting, municipal Judge John Cicolella presented on the state of the Municipal Court, which is the lowest court level. He explained his practices and procedures and discussed some
his cases
municipalities he has served. He noted that it was a requirement that he be sworn in. Town Administrator Dawn Collins administered the oath of office. From left are Collins and Cicolella. Photo by Jackie Burhans.
Above: At the Jan. 9 Palmer Lake Board of Trustees meeting, the board held a public hearing on the proposed re-subdivision and Lakeview Heights development east of the New Santa Fe Trail and southeast of Star Circle Drive. Map courtesy of the Town of Palmer Lake.
from a train and by cars. He pointed out that the train would block emergency services.
• Marilyn Stuhr said she owned two lots in the area and she wanted assurance that Sepp would not take over her property.
• Patti Brooks asked the board to require a second access point. She questioned whether the Planning Commission had approved the development.
• Trina Shook commented on the relationship between the development and the town’s Sanitation District.
Barlow responded to the comments from residents. She said Sepp was trying to find a second point of access in addition to the Santa Fe Trail and reiterated that Sepp had the permission of El Paso County Parks and Recreation to use the trail, which is built to a robust standard, in an emergency. Lakeview Heights will be a FireWise community, she said, with little vegetation, to minimize the risk of fire. The project must go through the subdivision plat process, a more detailed process where it will have to prove it has the necessary water and sewer taps. She asked the board to approve the current request so the project can go on to the next more detailed stage. She pointed out a previous version of the plan had 280 lots; that number was reduced to 100 in the current version. The roads are already platted. Curbs and gutters would be provided on Oakdale Drive, she said. Havenar closed the hearing and the board took up Resolution 8-2025, which would approve the Lakeview Heights masterplan, with a number of conditions concerning ownership of lots, rights of way, consent of the owners of lots not included in the application, dedication of land for trails or payment in lieu of land, stormwater drainage and other issues. Following discussion by the trustees, Havenar made a
motion requiring Sepp to return to a future meeting with a more detailed evacuation plan, a memo of understanding with El Paso County and answers to issues about the ownership of lots and about the requirement for all homes to have sprinkler systems. The motion passed, with Trustees Ball, Caves, Hutson Jurka and Dennis Stern voting yes, along with Havenar. Trustee Kevin Dreher voted no.
Elephant Rock property to be “passive park”
Wiecks presented an Open Space Master Plan for the Elephant Rock property. Wiecks said he and the other members of the Parks and Trails Commission had defined five use and maintenance zones and had applied them to the 26-acre property:
• Zone 0 will be closed to the public and will serve as a wildlife refuge. Two thin strips west of Monument Creek are designated Zone 0.
• Zone 1 will allow public use limited to designated trails and benches. A large portion of the property just west of Highway 105 falls into this usage zone, as well as the northwestern and southern corners of the property.
• Zone 2 will allow moderate public use for off-trail access. The portion of the property immediately to the west of the lodge is designated Zone 2.
• Zone 3 will be a passive recreation area, moderately to actively used by the public, with picnic areas, a pavilion, benches and trails. An area east of Monument Creek is categorized as Zone 3.
• Zone 4, an area on the south side of the property, is reserved for a sports field
The portions of the property reserved for a future Public Safety building and the Eco Spa to be developed by the Willens were not in-
cluded in the plan developed by the Parks and Trail Commission, Wiecks said.
Parking at the property will consist of four small “satellite” parking lots scattered around the middle of the property and one large lot dedicated to the Public Safety building, which is planned to be just west of the main entrance to the property from Highway 105.
Wiecks said he wanted the Elephant Rock property to be a “passive park and open space environment with no large-scale events and no new building construction.” He said the Parks and Trail Commission wanted to see the property designated as a park so that its maintenance could be funded by the Conservation Trust Fund money the town receives annually from the state lottery.
Collins asked the board to give Wiecks direction about how to proceed with his vison for the Elephant Rock property. Ball asked Wiecks to make sure signs were put in place asking visitors not to feed the livestock on adjacent properties. Havenar said she agreed that the land should be designated as a park to prevent future development.
Collins warned the board about taking a piecemeal approach to transitioning the land to park status. She reminded the board that the property was not yet open to the public.
Havenar suggested a workshop to continue the discussion.
Police chief and judge sworn in At the Jan. 23 meeting, Collins administered the oath of office to newly hired Police Chief Glen Smith and Judge John Ciccolella. Ciccolella has served as Palmer Lake municipal judge for 30 years.
Collins said a feasibility study of the proposed Public Safety building at the Elephant Rock property had been funded by a grant from the Colorado Department of Local Affairs.
Havenar acknowledged Ms. Olivia Hayes for having been chosen Miss Palmer Lake. Hayes will compete in the Miss Colorado pageant later this year.
Staff positions filled
Collins told the board Kathy Neal had been hired as an accounting clerk and Erica Romero as a deputy town clerk. A water operator position is open and is being advertised,
Above: Reid Wiecks, chairman of the Palmer Lake Parks and Trails Commission, presented a proposal to the Board of Trustees at its Jan. 23 meeting to divide a large portion of the Elephant Rock property into use zones. He proposed that those zones be declared a passive park so that Conservation Trust Funds from the state lottery could be used for its management. Map courtesy of the Town of Palmer Lake.
Above: Mayor Glant Havenar congratulates Miss Palmer Lake Olivia Hayes, who will be competing for Miss Colorado. From left are Havenar and Hayes. Photo by James Howald.
By Chris Jeub
Community
members
urged the Monument Town Council (MTC) to oppose Palmer Lake’s proposed annexation for a Buc-ee’s development during heated public comments at January’s meetings. Meanwhile, the council reviewed updates on the Falcon Commerce Center and approved new Planning Commission appointments, a Vision Statement for the town, and resolutions related to infrastructure improvements.
Oaths of office
At the first MTC meeting of 2025, the swearing-in of returning officials highlighted the evening. Incumbents Marco Fiorito, Kenneth Kimple, Laura Kronick, and Jim Romanello renewed their oaths of office. The council also reaffirmed Steve King as mayor pro tem, continuing his leadership alongside Mayor Mitch LaKind. The council’s current governance remains unchanged, with LaKind, elected in 2022, continuing as mayor, and councilmembers Sana Abbott, King, and the reelected members representing their respective districts and at-large positions.
Later the council gave attention to appointing members of the Planning Commission. Resolution No. 05-2025 was unanimously approved, officially naming Martin Trujillo, Daniel Ours, Ray Egley, and Donna Hatch to the commission. Additionally, the Town of Monument announced two open alternate seats on the commission, inviting community members to apply and contribute to the town’s planning initiatives.
Legislative Platform
The town presented a new item called the “2025 Legislative Platform,” something Mayor LaKind said was never done before. The platform outlines the town’s priorities and advocacy positions for the upcoming year. It focuses on empowering local governance, protecting Monument’s autonomy, and advocating for the town’s interests at state and federal levels. Key priorities include transportation improvements, support for local law enforcement, maintaining municipal control over landuse decisions, and ensuring equitable access to resources. The platform opposes unfunded mandates, burdensome regulations, and legislation that diminishes municipal authority, while promoting infrastructure upgrades, affordable housing initiatives, and cybersecurity advancements.
LaKind expressed reservations about the town becoming an internet service provider, citing examples like Fort Collins where similar ventures resulted in significant financial losses. He emphasized the impor-
tance of avoiding unnecessary risks to the town’s fiscal stability. Additionally, both the mayor and Abbott raised concerns about the inclusion of artificial intelligence in town operations, pointing to its lack of regulation and the potential challenges it could pose. The plan was presented in draft form by the town staff in the Jan. 6 meeting and ratified in the Jan. 21 meeting.
Buc-ee’s opposition seeks Monument support
At the Jan. 6 meeting, members of Integrity Matters, a local nonprofit, led an organized appeal urging the town to oppose Palmer Lake’s proposed annexation of land at the southwest corner of I-25 and County Line Road for a Buc-ee’s development. During public comment, Katherine Gayle, chief legal counsel for the group, emphasized their action against Palmer Lake, claiming that Bucee’s would harm local businesses, disrupt Monument’s small-town character, and drain critical resources like water. Citizens echoed these concerns, highlighting issues such as traffic congestion, light pollution, wildlife displacement, and potential declines in property value. Many in the packed room voiced similar fears about the annexation’s long-term impact on the community.
Not everyone in attendance opposed the development, however. One remote participant reminded the council of the “unintended consequences” of rejecting past annexation opportunities for the property. Noting prior protests against residential development ultimately left the landowner with limited options, leading to the current proposal with Palmer Lake. Monument now has less control over the outcome, she claimed.
In response to the pub-
she said.
Executive sessions
The Jan. 9 meeting included an executive session to determine negotiating positions regarding the lease for the EcoSpa at the Elephant Rock property and to receive legal advice regarding a complaint against the town filed with the Colorado Attorney General and concerns that have been raised about the board’s eligibility for annexation decisions.
lic input, councilmembers expressed support for Integrity Matters and residents’ concerns. Councilmember Kenneth Kimple proposed drafting a letter of opposition, citing 88 emails he had received against the project. Mayor Pro Tem Steve King encouraged strong community turnout at future meetings to amplify opposition, while Councilmember Laura Kronick urged residents to continue voicing their concerns.
Higby Road
At the Jan. 6 meeting, James McGrady of the Triview Metropolitan District presented a detailed plan for the Higby Road Widening Project, which aims to address congestion and improve safety from Jackson Creek Parkway to Harness Road. The project, with an estimated cost of $12.6 million, will be executed in two phases: the first phase extending from Bowstring Road to Harness Road and the second phase from Jackson Creek Parkway to Bowstring. McGrady emphasized the need for the improvements, citing the growing traffic volumes from Lewis-Palmer High School and surrounding neighborhoods. Key elements include widening the road, constructing new roundabouts, adding sidewalks and multi-use paths, and improving ingress and egress in the event of emergencies.
McGrady highlighted the safety benefits of roundabouts, which reduce crash rates and improve traffic flow compared to traditional intersections. Additionally, the plan incorporates a multi-use path along the south side of Higby Road to support pedestrian and bicyclist access, with specific attention to student crossings near Lewis-Palmer High School. The project will include center medians, sidewalks, and bicycle lanes to
The Jan. 23 meeting included an executive session to confer with the town attorney about the EcoSpa lease, the board’s eligibility for annexation decisions and a lawsuit against the town filed by Integrity Matters.
**********
The next regular board meeting is scheduled for Feb. 13. Meetings are held at the Town Hall. See the town’s website at www.
accommodate multimodal transportation.
The project’s funding relies on a mix of general obligation bonds, developer contributions, and a portion of the district’s mill levy and sales tax revenue. McGrady explained that the road was previously mismanaged before its annexation by the Town of Monument, which initiated efforts to modernize the infrastructure. McGrady emphasized the importance of moving forward to support the growing needs of the community and enhance road safety for all users.
Town’s new Vision Statement approved At the Jan. 6 meeting, a strategic planner presented a draft Vision Statement as part of the town’s 202628 Strategic Plan. The Vision Statement emphasizes Monument’s commitment to being a “safe, welcoming, and productive community” that empowers individu-
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.
als and families to thrive while preserving the town’s small-town charm and natural beauty. It acknowledges Monument’s growth as a gateway to the Pikes Peak region and stresses a balance between responsible development and maintaining the community’s unique character. The Vision Statement also outlines key commitments, including fostering transparency in governance, delivering high-quality town services, protecting natural resources, and supporting thoughtfully planned growth.
A slide comparison of the Vision Statement revisions showcased minor adjustments to language, enhancing clarity and focus. LaKind expressed support for the edits, stating they better reflected the community’s values. Councilmembers Kimple, Abbott, and Kronick echoed his approval, highlighting the importance of preserving Monument’s small-town appeal
Above: Town Administrator Dawn Collins administers the oath of office to newly hired Police Chief Glen Smith. From left are Collins and Smith. Photo by James Howald.
while accommodating growth. The council unanimously approved the Vision Statement, setting the foundation for the Strategic Plan.
Situated at the gateway to the Pikes Peak region, the Town of Monument stands out as a friendly, closeknit community that offers both a sense of small town charm and access to the conveniences and amenities of modern living. In recent years, the popularity and opportunities available in this area of Colorado, including Monument, have resulted in significant growth and development. Amidst this change, the vision and commitment of the Town of Monument remains steady: To ensure a safe, welcoming and productive community that empowers individuals and families to prosper together and enjoy the quality lifestyle that they desire. Forecasting into the future, Monument will remain prepared and capable of balancing responsible growth and development while continually meeting the needs of its residents and preserving its unique small town character all have come to admire and appreciate, including protecting
the inspiring natural surroundings which the community values and respects.
The strategic planner concluded the presentation by outlining the next steps in the planning process, which include identifying strategic priorities that will guide policy and initiatives in the coming years. This Vision Statement serves as the cornerstone for the plan, shaping the town’s goals and ensuring alignment with the community’s aspirations for the future.
Falcon Commerce Center Final PUD approved At the Jan. 6 meeting, representatives from NES and the developers of Falcon Commerce Center presented updates on the multi-phase project, detailing the planned industrial and commercial development. The project, spanning 214 acres, includes areas for civic, industrial, medical, and office uses. Key infrastructure improvements, such as the extension of Terrazzo Drive, were highlighted, with NES contributing $480,000 toward traffic signal enhancements.
Monument
Despite these efforts, councilmembers raised concerns. King expressed unease about contaminants in the stormwater basin, while Kimple criticized the traffic situation and suggested that the development would worsen congestion on the west side. Kimple also objected to the proposed building colors, preferring earth tones over U.S. Air Force Academy-inspired designs.
King and Fiorito underscored the growing traffic issues, with Fiorito noting that even in “perfect weather,” congestion remains a problem, and 18-wheel trucks would exacerbate the issue. King described the situation as “a giant mess,” while Kimple questioned the overall impact on Terrazzo Road, pointing out that decisions made by CDOT to add a roundabout have not resolved the core challenges. Councilmember Romanello countered the concerns, calling the extended delays “ridiculous,” demanding a vote to move forward.
Though concerns remained prominent, the council ultimately voted 7-0 to approve the updated plans. Fiorito and Kimple reiterated
Planning Commission, Jan. 8
their reservations about the traffic implications and building aesthetics, with Fiorito stating he would like something other than “big white buildings.” Despite the unanimous approval, the council acknowledged the need for ongoing diligence in addressing traffic flow, environmental impacts, and design standards as the project progresses.
**********
The Monument Town Council usually meets at 6:30 p.m. on the first and third Mondays of each month at Monument Town Hall, 645 Beacon Lite Road. The next meetings are scheduled for Monday, Feb. 3 and Tuesday, Feb. 18 (Monday, Feb. 17 is Presidents’ Day). For more information, call 719-884-8014 or visit www.townofmonument.org. To view upcoming agendas, complete board packets, or download audio recordings of past meetings, visit http://monumenttownco.minutesondemand.com and click on “Town Council.” Chris Jeub can be reached at chrisjeub@ocn.me.
Commission elects Trehill as chair, hears concerns about traffic and access for Woodmoor Placer Replat B
By Janet Sellers
At the Jan. 8 meeting, the Monument Planning Commission elected Martin Trehill as chair and Chad Smith as vice chair.
At the first public hearing for the Woodmoor Placer Replat B final plat, the project was approved, with concerns about traffic and access addressed. The second hearing approved the final plat for Falcon Commerce Center Park and Signage. The third hearing for Connexus Lot 2 was continued to Feb. 12. The meeting concluded with updates on the Comprehensive Plan and a development impact fee study, emphasizing
based on the International Code Council, the WUI code, along with several others, and using insurance codes for reference. The law will mandate the use of limited combustible and non-combustible building materials and meet a vegetation management plan for all new con-
community and developer outreach. Apologies were made for technical and other errors in the meeting.
The commissioners look to provide a calendar and schedule for the upcoming Comprehensive Plan update process, including opportunities for Planning Commission involvement. The commissioners also expressed frustration about the lack of detail in the minutes regarding split votes and discussed the importance of including detailed findings of fact in the minutes, given that there had been considerable discussion regarding the various significant issues brought forth in the De-
struction, remodels, and refits over a set percentage located in the WUI. There will also be some changes regarding building code/fire marshal officials that could create another layer for the district, said Bradley. See htps://www.dfpc.colorado.gov and NEPCO article on page 15 and letter on page 16.
Revenue stabilization Kovacs said he is a member of one of
Open Meetings Saturdays, 146 N. Jefferson —8:00am
STARS OF TOMORROW TALENT COMPETITION
Stars of Tomorrow is a professionally-judged, performing arts talent show for grades 1 –12. Application, Fee & Audition Rules
Participants must live within Lewis-Palmer School District D-38 borders or attend a D38 school.
• Applications must be received by February 8, 2025
•Application Fee: $10 per act (make checks payable to Monument Hill Kiwanis Club)
•Applicants will be notified by February 17th if they have been selected to audition
To apply, scan the QR above or complete the Application at: https://monumenthillkiwanis.org/machform/view.php?id=26322
• Auditions –Saturday, February 22, 2025
•Auditioners will be notified by February 27th if they will be performing.
• Rehearsal –Saturday, March 15, 2025
• Show –Sunday, March 16, 2025.
Auditions are competitive! Come prepared as show-ready. You will be rated on: Talent, Technique & Artistry, Presentation, Stage Presence & Selection of Material Prizes
Elementary (1-5) -$500
Middle School (6-8) -$750 1st, $500 2nd
High School (9-12) -$2,000 1st, $1,000 2nd, $500 3rd
cember meeting resulting in a split vote.
As reported in the January issue of OCN, the commission had approved recommendations in a Dec. 11 meeting for the sketch plan for the Woodmoor Placer Replat B, a commercial subdivision along Jackson Creek Parkway. This is awaiting approval from the Monument Town Council. This development, aimed at accommodating growing community needs, includes six lots and will focus on shared access roads, pedestrian pathways, and utility easements. The commissioners emphasized their desire to ensure the
three committees the State of Colorado identified to discuss revenue stabilization for special districts and special fire districts. Gov. Jared Polis indicated in a recent visit to southern Colorado that public safety is a priority. The district has sent a letter to the legislative aides expressing the district’s concerns about property taxes and how that impacts special districts. The Legislature is back in session, and 10 bills regarding fire districts will be considered. The state fire chiefs were set to attend on Jan. 23. The intent is to work with the authors of the legislation “so we are off to the races again with all of that” with the goal of adopting the state WUI code, and the single staircase for large buildings, five floors or less, that is being driven by developers in large municipalities to maintain a smaller footprint and allow infill within cities for affordable housing. It would have less concern for small municipalities such as MFD, but it is a step backward from a life safety perspective, said Kovacs.
Petition for inclusion
The board accepted a petition for inclusion and set a public hearing for Feb. 26 at 4:30 p.m. for 106.6 acres of real property off Gambler Place, Colorado Springs, owned by Thaddeus J. Jarosz to be developed into 10 single-family dwellings that will be included into the district for services.
2025 board director election Kovacs said the district will hold an election on May 6 to fill the Board of Directors positions currently held by Duane Garrett, Mark Gunderman, John Hildebrandt, Tom Kelly, and Mike Smaldino. Three seats will be for four-year terms and two seats will be for two-year terms. Any eligible elector of the special district who desires to be a candidate for the office of special district director must file a self-nomination and acceptance form with the designated election official at 16055 Old Forest Point, Suite 102, Monument, no later than close of business on Feb. 28. The district does not maintain
architecture of the Woodmoor Placer Replat B development is compatible with the surrounding area during the site plan review process. **********
The Planning Commission usually meets on the second Wednesday of each month. The next meeting is scheduled for Feb. 12. 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.
term limitations for board directors, and if the district does not receive additional electors the election will be cancelled.
In a 5-0 vote, the board approved Resolution 2025-02 calling for the 2025 regular district election and appointing Kovacs as the designated election official, setting the precinct and polling place location, delegating to the designated election official the authority to appoint judges of the election, and setting the compensation of the appointed election judges at $14.42 per hour. The board also approved the electronic posting of notices on the district website.
Kovacs said the district is no longer legally required to post notices in hard copy at the fire stations, but besides the district website, meeting information will continue to be posted in both places.
Staffing update
Kovacs said that Battalion Chief Micah Coyle had returned to his previous role as shift battalion chief, and he thanked Coyle for his oneyear administrative duty as executive battalion chief. Battalion Chief Janaka Branden has replaced Coyle as the executive battalion chief for 2025.
Paramedic Stephanie Botkin is attending the Pikes Peak State College Recruit Fire Academy with two recently hired paramedics. Firefighter/Paramedic Rachael Peters accepted the EMS coordinator position, while Botkin attends the academy through May. Two paramedics accepted jobs in Adams County and South Metro Fire Rescue, to be geographically closer to home. Paramedics Andrew Dore and Taylor Lindsey were sworn in at a ceremony after the meeting, said Kovacs.
Apparatus update
Kovacs said the district had taken possession of a new ladder truck and the staff training is complete. The process of outfitting the apparatus has begun. The district anticipates receiving two engines (approved about two years ago) in early
MFD (Cont. from 1)
2026, a year early than expected. The district expects to receive two ambulances in late 2025, has a Type 6 chassis ready for assembly at Boise Mobile Equipment, Boise, Idaho and is expected
by mid-year. A water tender purchase will be included in the 2026 budget, said Kovacs. The chief’s report and the November and December financial reports can be
found at www.monumentfire.org.
The meeting adjourned at 5:42 p.m. **********
Meetings are usually held on the fourth Wednesday
every month. The next regular meeting is scheduled for Feb. 26 at 4:30 p.m. at Station 1, 18650 Highway 105. For Microsoft Teams virtual joining instructions, agendas, minutes, and updates,
Black Forest Fire/Rescue Protection District, Jan. 15
visit www.monumentfire. org or contact Director of Administration Jennifer Martin at 719-484-9011. Natalie Barszcz can be reached at nataliebarszcz@ocn.me.
Board pursues study and citizen input to determine future
By Natalie Barszcz
The Black Forest Fire Rescue Protection District (BFFRPD) Board of Directors held a workshop on Jan. 4 to discuss alternative service delivery models, and the steps needed to consider formal solicitation of alternative delivery models, and the status of the fire chief solicitation. The board received an informational briefing from retired Oregon Fire Chief Dan Patterson, a consultant representing AP Triton LLC. Vice President John Hildebrandt, Director Mark Gunderman, Division Chief of Community Risk Reduction Jonathan Bradley of Monument Fire District, and Fire Chief Andrew York of Cimarron Hills Fire Department (CHFD), offered advice to the board about their past experience with fire department mergers.
At the Jan. 15 meeting, the board approved the hiring of a consultant to perform the district needs analysis study, discussed command staffing models to fill gaps within the executive staff branch, and discussed advertising for a fire chief.
This reporter attended the meetings virtually via Zoom technology.
District needs analysis
At the regular meeting on Jan. 15, the board entered into a lengthy discussion about conducting a short study to determine the needs of the district and the potential for a different service model. The board ultimately agreed to hold several public meetings to gather information, with Patterson in attendance before the study could begin. The meetings are scheduled as follows:
• Friday, Feb. 24—open community meeting (time TBD.
• Thursday, Feb. 27— Workshop with community participation (time TBD).
• Friday, Feb. 28 from 3 until 9 p.m.—Board workshop.
The board unanimously approved up to $15,000 for Patterson to complete the district’s needs analysis study.
Note: Please check the website for updates before attending the meetings. The information contained under Transparency on the district website at https:// bffire.org was not up to date when this article was published. Under normal circumstances and in compliance with the Special District Association and the Department of Local Affairs, the district is required by law to post the most current audit, budget, and transparency notice stating the mill levy to be collected in 2025, a board meeting schedule, and the fees schedule.
This reporter reached out to three executive staff to request a board packet and other information from the Jan. 15 meeting but received no response. The board packets containing the financial report and previous meeting minutes were missing for December and January at the time this article was written.
Command staff models
Interim Fire Chief Josh Bartlett said the department needed to fill two or three positions with existing staff with temporary acting captains to assist the department with administrative work to help with plan reviews and inspections, a firefighter and full rescue training officer, and an EMS coordinator to help with billing, training, and continued education. The opportunity would allow the staff to build a resume and allow staff to make more money. If the department moves to an alternative delivery service, the staff would laterally transfer in the permanent rank, said Bartlett.
The discussion paused and resumed after the lengthy discussion about advertising for the fire chief position advertisement.
The board asked about shift hours and other details.
Bartlett said the budget allowed for funding the three positions, and no decision from the board was necessary.
Fire chief position advertisement
Treasurer Jack Hinton said, “For two meetings and a work session we sat down and busted our ass trying to formulate the right wording for a job description with the qualifications necessary for hiring a permanent fire chief. Given the time frame to work everything out with the study, we are prolonging the misery. The department does not have a clear direction until the study is complete and it is making me insane, and the taxpayers deserve better,” he said. Hinton made a motion to conduct a search for a permanent fire chief, with a statement that the position could be temporary.
Chair Nate Dowden seconded the motion. Vice Chair Kiersten Tarvainen said she disagreed with the motion, and the firefighter survey indicated no urgent need to hire a fire chief, it was the last option stated by the firefighters. The board needs better direction, and waiting until the study is completed will show where
we need to go, whether it is a different service model, said Tarvainen.
Director Jim Abendschan said he agreed with Tarvainen and “hiring a fire chief right now is just muddying the water and will add to the problems further down the road. We should wait for Patterson’s analysis that will give the board direction to take a methodical approach toward the future,” said Abendschan.
Director Chad Behnken said he recognized all the work done by Bartlett and Battalion Chief David Rocco to “right the ship” and uncover a lot of the issues the board did not see. “Although it feels like the board is kicking the can down the road, it is imperative to complete the study and maintain the status quo until the report is received,” said Behnken.
Hinton said we could solicit for resumes and have them ready when the study is complete.
Tarvainen said the district is still uncovering information and it is operational with Bartlett and Rocco and coverage from Colorado Springs Fire Department (CSFD) and Monument Fire District.
Dowden said that regardless of which model the board pursues, he is skeptical that if a contract for services is chosen, that it could be expedited in less than six to nine months. “Do we still want to continue with a dual interim fire chief model?” he asked.
Bartlett said the board has the option to fill the fire chief position from the department immediately with a full-time 40-hour week interim position.
Patterson said reaching out to a narrow field would be confusing for candidates given the uncertain future of the department. Either you are looking for an interim or a permanent fire chief, and maybe a fire chief could be detailed and contracted full time from CSFD. Patterson, having spent the last year working with South Metro Rescue District on a large organization’s search for a fire chief, said it took a year. The pool was large but nar-
rowed down quickly in a department that knew exactly what it wanted. Candidates will not be quick to apply if the future is uncertain unless they are running from somewhere else, Patterson said. “Keep it simple and pursue one of the enrolled interim battalion chiefs for a true, fulltime 40-hour-a-week interim fire chief position that would return back to CSFD (Bartlett and Rocco are also maintaining battalion chief positions at CSFD and assisting at BFFRPD). Hiring one battalion chief might give the district more stability during the decision-making process, and I can feel your pain on the leadership part,” said Patterson.
A line staff member in the audience said, “I have seen it, and know exactly what you are going through, because I watched it the last time. The board made the mistake of hiring somebody they should not have, and it ended up costing the department hundreds and thousands of dollars in lawsuits, because they wanted to put somebody into that role. I know you want to help the line staff out and it is appreciated, but you need to do what is right and not get someone into that role right away. The person hired was because the board were desperate. If you solicit for an interim role for a year, it would unlikely be a quality individual that the firefighters want to follow; we need strong leadership, and I do
not want to follow someone who should not be there,” he said.
Several line staff with previous experience in executive roles threw their hats in the ring to be part of the executive team.
The motion to advertise the fire chief position failed in a 2-3 vote with Abendschan, Behnken, and Tarvainen voting nay.
Note: At the Dec. 4 meeting, after another lengthy discussion regarding the minimum level of education and the amount of progressive fire service experience needed, the board unanimously approved a job specification and a posting to invite people to apply for the fire chief position, but downgraded the minimum college level of education from a bachelor’s to an associate’s degree. However, the board did not approve advertising the position.
The meeting adjourned at 9:21 p.m.
Correction
In the January edition of OCN, in the BFFRPD article, the sentence at the end of paragraph six under the heading “Future operations explored” should have read “and actually, doing less than what I am doing, said Herdt” instead of …”and end up doing less, said Herdt.” OCN regrets the error. Note: Herdt has additional responsibilities as an acting captain at BFFRPD.
Johan is the Tri-Lakes area’s premier naturally-curly-hair-focused hair studio!
Our each of our stylists has over 20 years’ experience in caring for curls! Custom curl cutting, coloring, treatments, and education! We can help you find the best shape/style, and achieve beautiful curl definition using 100% clean organic products! Call us today to schedule your transformation! (719) 488-2662
634 Hwy. 105, Palmer Lake, CO 80133 www.Facebook.com/johanhairstudio
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. The next regular meeting is scheduled for Wednesday, Feb. 19 at 7 p.m. For joining instructions,
updates, agendas, minutes, and reports, visit www.bffire.org or contact admin@bffire.org, or call 719495-4300.
Natalie Barszcz can be reached at nataliebarszcz.ocn.me.
Woodmoor Water and Sanitation District, Jan. 13 Board prepares for election, passes administrative resolution
By James Howald
At its January meeting, the Woodmoor Water and Sanitation District (WWSD) board passed two resolutions: the first regarding an upcoming election for board members and the second covering administrative issues. The board heard financial and operational reports. The meeting ended with an executive session.
Four seats up for election District lawyer Erin Smith asked the board to consider Resolution 25-02, which calls for a regular election to be held on May 6.
Smith said four seats will be up for election in May. The four-year terms of Directors Daniel Beley, Bill Clewe, and Tom Roddam are expiring and board President Brian Bush’s two-year term will also expire. Bush’s term is two years because he was appointed, Smith said.
Friday, Feb. 28 is the deadline for self-nomination, Smith explained. Nomination forms can be obtained from the district’s Office Manager Cory Lynch. Once a candidate completes the nomination form, they must send it to the election’s Designated Election Official Mandi Kirk, of Maynes, Bradford, Shipps & Sheftel LLC. Kirk’s address is Mandi Kirk, 600 17th St., Ste. 2150S, Denver, CO 80202. Her email address is MKirk@ mbssllp.com. Kirk’s phone number is
(303) 292-6400. Nomination forms must be witnessed by a valid Colorado elector, Smith said.
The Barn, 1691 Woodmoor Dr., will be the polling place and votes can be cast between 7 a.m. and 7 p.m. on May 6.
The board voted unanimously in favor of the resolution.
Administrative resolution
The board unanimously approved an annual administrative resolution that specifies compliance requirements and defines the rules by which the district will operate, including:
• An accurate map of the district’s service area will be prepared.
• The timeline by which the district budget will be prepared, submitted to the state and possibly amended.
• The Tri-Lakes Tribune or The Gazette will be the newspapers of general circulation for publication of legal notices.
• Meeting notices will be posted on the district’s website at https://www.woodmoorwater. com and at the district’s offices at 1845 Woodmoor Dr., Monument.
• Meetings will be held on the second Monday of every month at the district’s offices.
Financial report
Treasurer Roy Martinez told the
board the financial report for January was a draft because some invoices from 2024 are still outstanding. Water sales were 102% of the budgeted amount and wastewater expenses were close to the estimate.
The board voted to approve Martinez’s report.
Manager’s report
District Manager Jessie Shaffer told the board that Colorado Springs Utilities (CSU) was leading a study of indirect potable reuse (IPR). IPR systems direct treated wastewater through an environmental buffer, such as a lake or river, before it is delivered to customers for consumption. CSU has asked neighboring water districts to participate in its study, Shaffer said. He said CSU’s approach was like the Loop’s, but on a larger scale. Shaffer said WWSD would benefit from participating in the study because CSU’s plan includes use of the Chilcott Ditch, in which WWSD is a major shareholder and participation could open the door to other partnerships with CSU, possibly giving the district access to CSU’s water supply.
for monitoring PFAS chemicals and lithium. He reported that currently the water WWSD delivers to its customers has undetectable levels of PFAS. The standard for lithium is unclear, he said, since the agency has not defined a minimum contaminant level for it. Board President Brian Bush said the rules for PFAS and lithium may change with Donald Trump as president. Bush also pointed out that WWSD’s PFAS levels will likely increase after it begins receiving water for the Loop.
In response to a comment from Roddam, LaFontaine updated the board on the district’s efforts to prevent cyberattacks on its facilities. He said new security software had been implemented in 2024. The district’s treatment plants are not connected to the internet, he said, and anyone trying to sabotage their operations would have to be physically present at the plants.
Engineering report
District Engineer Cydney Saelens gave a status report on the projects she is working on.
She said two bids to rehabilitate the district’s main lift station had been much higher than expected. She said she would discuss the bids with JVA Inc., the engineering company that provided consulting on the project. Shaffer said the bid might be resubmitted or the project redesigned.
Saelens said the district’s new Dawson aquifer well was yielding over 40 gallons per minute.
Executive session
Shaffer also updated the board on the progress of the Loop’s water re-use project. He said the Loop was preparing a request for proposal that will go to consulting and engineering firms asking them to design water treatment facilities that will bring Fountain Creek water to drinking water standards and to pilot test their designs. He said that the Loop was continuing to work with the Cherokee Metropolitan District (CMD) even though CMD had decided to withdraw from the Loop. The Loop and CMD were discussing the future of the Sundance pipeline, which is owned by CMD, and whether the Loop would access the pipeline, buy it from CMD, or move to a different option to convey its water, Shaffer said. He emphasized that the Loop and CMD were still on good terms despite CMD’s withdrawal.
Operational report
Operations Superintendent Dan LaFontaine reported two shears, or pipe breaks, in December.
He discussed how WWSD is working to meet the Environmental Protection Agency’s requirements
The meeting ended with an executive session to determine negotiating positions and to confer with legal counsel on potential agreements with the Loop.
No actions were taken following the executive session.
**********
The next meeting is on Feb. 10 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 719-488-2525 to verify meeting times and locations.
James Howald can be reached at jameshowald@ocn.me.
Sanitation District, Jan. 15
Board passes administrative resolution
By Jackie Burhans and James Howald
At a brief meeting in January, the Monument Sanitation District (MSD) board passed its annual administrative resolution and heard an operational report from District Manager Mark Parker. Resident and Monument Town Council member Laura Kronick clarified her remarks at the board’s previous meeting. Administrative Resolution sets rules, regulations
The board voted unanimously in favor of Resolution 01152025-1, which specifies how the board will do its work in 2025. A similar resolution is passed at the beginning of each year.
The resolution states, in part:
• Directors will be compensated for their work on the board.
• The Colorado Springs Gazette will be the paper in which the district’s legal notices are published. Notices will also be posted on the district’s web page at https://monumentsanitationdistrict.org.
• Meetings will be held in the district’s community room at 130 Second St. at 9 a.m. on the third Wednesday of each month.
• The district manager will also serve as the budget officer and will propose a budget to the
board by Oct. 15, will schedule a public hearing on that proposed budget, will prepare a final budget, amend it as necessary, and submit it to the state by Dec. 15.
• Kara Winters, of Collins Cole Winn & Ulmer PLLC, will serve as the designated election official for any elections to be held in 2025.
• The MSD community room will be the polling place for all elections in 2025.
• Collins Cole Winn & Ulmer will be the district’s general counsel, GMS Inc. will provide engineering services, and Haynie & Co. will provide accounting services.
Manager’s report
Parker told the board Alphalete Plumbing had replaced a temperature and pressure relief valve at the district headquarters building. He said return envelopes would no longer be included in the district’s monthly statements to customers as a cost-saving measure and to encourage customers to use Electronic Funds Transfer instead of checks. The district is still working with representatives of the proposed Bucee’s travel center to get estimated wastewater flow projections.
Monument
Find Your Dream Home in Monument Junction
The 4-Square Collection, where farmhouse charm meets modern bungalow style in an all-new streetscape setting! Explore our stunning new model homes and incredible floor plans ranging from 1,685 to 2,142 sq. ft., each featuring attached 2-car garages and a unique shared driveway layout. Crafted for comfort and style, these 2-story homes are designed to fit your lifestyle.
Marigold | Blossom | Moon ower | Jasmine
Kronick clarifies remarks on pay increases
At the previous board meeting, Kronick told the board that while the board had discussed giving district employees a 5% salary increase (3% for cost of living and 2% for merit), the final budget listed a 14% increase for salaries. The difference caused a perception problem, she said.
During the public comments portion of the
By James Howald
January meeting, Kronick emphasized that the issue was one of perception only. She asked that the minutes for the previous meeting be amended, with the words “rate increase” being replaced with “pay increase.”
**********
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 sched-
uled for Feb. 19. See https://MonumentSanitationDistrict.org. For a district service map, see https://MonumentSanitationDistrict.org/districtmap. Information: 719-481-4886. Jackie Burhans can be reached at jackieburhans@ocn.me. James Howald can be reached at jameshowald@ocn.me.
Donala Water and Sanitation District, Jan. 16 Board passes housekeeping resolution
and Jackie Burhans
In January, the Donala Water and Sanitation District’s (DWSD) board passed an administrative resolution and set their calendar of meetings for 2025. It elected a backup representative to the El Paso County Regional Loop Water Authority (EPCRLWA, also known as the “Loop”). Finally, the board heard financial and operational reports.
Administrative resolution
Resolution 2025-1 specifies how DWSD will comply with state laws; a similar resolution is passed every year. It includes, in part:
• The timeline governing when a budget will be proposed, amended if necessary and filed with the state.
• The Gazette or the Tri-Lakes Tribune will be the papers of general circulation in which legal notices will be published.
• Notices will also be posted on the district’s webpage, www.donalawater.org, and at the district’s offices at 1580 Holbein Dr.
• Regular meetings will be on the third Thursday of every month at 1:30 p.m. at the district’s offices.
Meeting schedule for 2025
The board set its meeting schedule for 2025. The schedule can be found here: https://www.donalawater.org/files/8c7aa8899/Annual+Board+Me eting+Schedule+2025.pdf.
Backup representatives named General Manager Jeff Hodge asked the board to approve Resolution 2025-2, which names Accounts Payable Specialist Christina Hawker and Water Operator Cade Pennington as the district’s alternative representatives on the Loop board. They will represent DWSD if Hodge is unable to attend a Loop meeting. The board voted unanimously to approve the resolution.
Financial report and operational reports In a brief financial report, Hawker said the district ended its 2024 budget year with water sales $30,000 over its estimate and expenses just under its estimate. The expenses for the Upper Monument Creek Waste Wastewater Treatment Facility (UMCWWTF), which DWSD operates jointly with Academy Water and Sanitation District, Forest Lakes Metropolitan District, and Triview Metropolitan District, were spot on, she said. The board voted unanimously to accept the financial report.
In his manager’s report, Hodge told the board the district is moving ahead with its plans to redrill Well 7D. He said he had met with the district’s water lawyers and with engineers, who estimated the redrilled well could produce 200 gallons per minute. Hodge said he was concerned that the pipeline adjacent to Baptist Road could fail but the wells near the Holbein treatment plant can supply the plant without using the pipeline. He said he was also considering the future of Well
14A, currently unused due to radium levels, but which could be viable with the radium remediation technology that the district has in place.
Rehabilitation of the district’s storage tanks is continuing, Hodge said, adding he was dusting off the plans to keep the district’s UMCWWTF safe in case of fire. The district should consider investing in an on-site generator or in battery backup, he said.
Superintendent of Water Operations Ronny Wright told the board he was investigating Barricade fire blocking gel and Phos-Chek as methods to protect the UMCWWTF from fire damage.
Waste Plant Operator Aaron Tolman reported E. coli in the UMCWWTF’s effluent is well under the maximum allowed. The plant processed 28 million gallons of wastewater in December, Tolman said.
The next board meeting is scheduled for Thursday, Feb. 20 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, Jan. 16 Board moves forward with RFP for water treatment design
By James Howald
At its January meeting, the El Paso County Regional Loop Water Authority (EPCRLWA, or the Loop) heard from John Kuosman, the Loop’s workflow manager, regarding a request for proposal (RFP) to design the project’s water treatment process. The board heard a financial report from Corbin Fromm, of Fromm and Co. LLC, the Loop’s accounting firm, and a brief legal report from Nicole Peykov of SpencerFane, the Loop’s legal firm.
The meeting ended with an executive session to discuss negotiating positions regarding access to water rights.
Treatment RFP requires confidentiality Kuosman told the board that the consultants with whom he had discussed the project’s water treatment requirements had requested that meetings with him be proprietary, so that their design suggestions would remain confidential. The consultants also requested access to specific drawings. Kuosman said he planned to issue the RFP on Monday, Jan. 20 and responses from consultants would be due by Feb. 27. He proposed scheduling interviews with a short list of consultants around March 10 and said he would recommend which consultant should be awarded the water treatment design work to the board at its March 20 meeting. He asked the board to agree to the release of the information requested and to agree that the meetings be held in a proprietary man-
ner.
Board President Jessie Shaffer pointed out that the Loop board could not meet with the consultants and asked if they would need six weeks to put together their proposals. Kuosman said based on his experience, six weeks was appropriate to get well-developed proposals. Shaffer and board Secretary Jeff Hodge authorized Kuosman to release the information and hold the meetings as he requested.
Kuosman said questions he had received from the board about Colorado’s 1041 regulations, which concern the site selection and construction of major water treatment systems, would be incorporated into the RFP.
Kuosman told the board he had discussed the Cherokee Metropolitan District’s withdrawal from the Loop with Jenny Bishop of Colorado Springs Utilities (CSU). CSU has its own consultant working on the transmission and storage of re-used water, Kuosman said, and said it was glad the Loop was working on treatment issues. CSU was willing to participate in a water treatment pilot project, Kuosman said, and would consider donating staff and facilities.
Kuosman mentioned he had met with entities that were interested in water supplies owned by the Loop and one had made a formal request for additional information.
Financial report
Fromm told the board there was $25,000 in out-
standing invoices for December, and the board voted to pay the claims. Fromm also said he believed the El Paso Board of County Commissioners would expedite the Loop’s request for $4 million in American Recovery Plan Act funds, and the Loop would receive that money possibly by the end of January.
Legal report
Peykov reminded the board that, due to the withdrawal of the Cherokee Metropolitan District from the project, it took only two Loop board members to make a quorum. A discussion between two board members would therefore be a public meeting that would need to be announced to the public with a minimum 24-hour notice, she said. Executive session
Following the executive session, the board reconvened into open session and directed Kuosman to finalize and issue an RFP to address advanced water treatment plant services for the Loop.
**********
The next regular meeting is scheduled for Feb. 20 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 Monument Town Hall. Please see loopwater.org or call 719-488-3603 to verify meeting times and locations.
James Howald can be reached at jameshowald@ocn.me.
Triview Metropolitan District, Jan. 23 2025 water and wastewater rates and fees increase approved
By Natalie Barszcz
At the Triview Metropolitan District (TMD) meeting on Jan. 23, the board held a public hearing before approving the 2025 water and wastewater rate and fee increases. Monument Town Councilor/former board Director Marco Fiorito discussed relationship building with the district. The board received an update on the Higby Road improvement project.
The board held an executive session to discuss the acquisition or sale of water/land and to determine positions relative to matters that may be subject to negotiations, to develop strategies for negotiations, and to instruct negotiators in the potential participation in the Northern Monument Creek Interceptor (NMCI) pipeline, to develop in-
centives, and intergovernmental agreements. Treasurer/Secretary James Barnhart and Director Amanda Carlton were excused. 2025 water and wastewater rate and fee increase
President Mark Melville opened a public hearing on the 2025 water and wastewater rate and fee increases proposed for implementation on Feb. 1, 2025. See https://wp.ocn.me/v25.n1tmd/. The hearing was posted in the appropriate places and no public comments were received before or during the meeting.
Background: At the December meeting, financial consultants Andrew Rheem and Theresa Jurotich of Raftelis presented their findings that capture the funding necessary for the district to remain solvent over the next 10 years. The study noted the 12% price increase in 2025 from Colorado Springs Utilities (CSU) to convey, treat and delivery the district’s water via the Northern Delivery System (NDS), additional district water that will be received via the NDS in the future, and a 6.5% increase identified per year over the next four years. The district anticipates other costs for ongoing repairs and replacement, change cases to obtain the district’s water rights, and other projects to increase in cost. The rate increases are
small, frequent adjustments that will be level and not bounce around over the next 10 years. For example, the typical residential customer with a three-quarter-inch meter using about 8,000 gallons per month in 2024 would be billed $117 per month for the water portion only, and with the rate applied in 2025 it would be about $129.
At the January meeting, Rheem presented two residential water rate table options to the board and said the presentation was a follow on from the December presentation and included water financial plan drivers, the NDS completion, purchased water cost increases, district inflationary costs for Operations and Maintenance, and capital for ongoing annual repairs and replacement. Option 1 follows the existing gallon usage tier system. The board agreed that customers would have more flexibility to remain within the Tier 1 bracket if the previous volume rates were maintained with increases. See table below: • The water base rate per month (renewable water fee) $45.00 (previously $40.00)
and billing charge per month $6.00 (previously $5.00) Volume
• Tier 3 20.001 to 30,000 $21.56 (previously $20.00)
• Tier 4 30,001 and above $32.33 (previously $30.00)
Wastewater base rate per month $62.87 (previously $57.68)
Average November-February volume use uniform rate $6.20 (previously $5.69)
The commercial- and irrigation-only rates can be found at: www.triviewmetrodistrict.com.
The board decided to omit Tier 5 from Option 1, for 40,000 gallons and above at a rate of $43.11, after District Administrator Sara Lamb said few customers use that much water, and when a high bill occurs it is usually due to an accidental leak. Those customers with unusually large bills due to leaks are charged at a lower tier rate.
In a 3-0 vote, the board approved Resolution 2025-01 establishing the rate and fee increase for 2025, using the rates noted above.
Director Jason Gross said, “Although the rates for the district are higher than neighboring communities, the district is providing a service that other districts have not yet made available to their customers. TMD customers are receiving 100% renewable water.”
Melville said, “At some point all neighboring districts will have to do the same, but at greater cost.”
Vice President Anthony Sexton said, “As easy as it is to sit at the table and delay, TMD forged ahead with purchasing water rights and building the NDS pipeline, and it pains me to see the higher rate, but it would be different if the district still had to begin the NDS project.”
Option 2 was not adopted. The tier structure would have reduced gallon usage per tier as follows:
Volume rates per 1,000 gallons
• Tier 1 0 to 4,000 $9.50
• Tier 2 4,001 to 10,000 $11.40
• Tier 3 10,001 to 25,000 $16.65
• Tier 4 Over 25,000 $23.75 Councilors offer support
Fiorito said the development of the Home Rule Charter for the Town of Monument created two districts, east and west Monument, and he and Councilor Kenneth Kimple both represent the TMD voters and will support the district. The Highway Users Tax Fund (HUTF) is a point of interest, along with the commercial development within the district, now that plenty of residential rooftops exist, said Fiorito.
Melville said a letter was drafted by district counsel George Rowley in September and sent to the Town of Monument (TOM) Interim Town Manager Madeline VanDenHoek requesting the town include the district’s road miles to give the district access to HUTF benefits. “Money is being left on the table, now the 2025 deadline has been missed, leaving about a $1 million delta for the district’s annual revenue,” said Melville.
District Manager James McGrady said he had a scheduled meeting with VanDenHoek to discuss HUTF, and Gross would represent the district on the TOM Stakeholder Planning Committee.
Gross suggested the Town Council and the board engage in a work session, and he would seek the TMD Board of Directors’ opinion after attending the Stakeholder Planning Committee meetings.
Higby Road update
McGrady said the Town Council had stated the Thompson Thrift and Zeal for Living apartments could not begin construction until funding for the Higby Road improvement project had been secured. A special meeting is planned for March 3 to approve ballot language regarding the bond for the mail-in election on May 6. The next customer newsletter will contain detailed information about the Higby Road improvement project, and information is available on the district website, said McGrady. See https://triviewmetro.com and Monument Town Council article on page 9.
Note: A brief community survey can be found at htpps://triviewmetrodistrict.com or https:// www.research.net/r/TMD_WEB_DEC?ID=[ID_ value] The survey allows customers to provide
El Paso Board of County Commissioners, Jan. 14
feedback to the district, to help gauge the appetite for a bond question which, should it pass, will allow the district to issue about $12.6 million for the widening of Higby Road and other capital improvements. See https://wp.ocn.me/v24n11tmd/. Financial update
The board accepted the December 2024 financial report as presented and approved 17 checks from December and seven for January over $5,000, totaling about $913,506. The payment to CSU for the conveyance, treatment and delivery of the district’s residential and commercial water for December was about $127,449, and of note in January was $312,978 to T-Bone Construction for water improvements to the district’s Arkansas Valley Irrigation Canal Company Augmentation Station.
The district received a total of about $2.4 million in sales tax revenue from the TOM for 2024. It was better than 2023, said McGrady.
Executive session
The board moved into an executive session at 8:15 p.m., pursuant to Colorado Revised Statutes (CRS) section 24-6-402(4)(a), to discuss the acquisition or sale of water/land, and CRS 24-6402(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 potential participation in the NMCI, development incentives, and intergovernmental agreements.
Sheffield confirmed to this reporter that after the meeting returned to the regular session at 9:16 p.m. no action was taken and the meeting promptly adjourned.
Meetings are usually held on the third Thursday of the month at the district office located at 16055 Old Forest Point, Suite 302. The next regular board meeting is scheduled for Feb. 20 at 5:30 p.m. For meeting agendas, minutes, and updates, visit https://triviewmetro.com.
Natalie Barszcz can be reached at nataliebarszcz@ocn.me.
Three commissioners sworn into office; chair and vice chair appointed
By Helen Walklett
At their first meeting of the year on Jan. 14, the El Paso Board of County Commissioners (BOCC) voted to appoint its chair and vice chair for 2025. Three commissioners also took the oath of office, two for the first time.
Chair and vice chair appointed
The commissioners voted unanimously to reappoint Carrie Geitner as chair. Commissioner Holly Williams was appointed as vice chair. Geitner has held the chair since October 2024 when Commissioner Cami Bremer stepped down to transition into her role as CEO of Pikes Peak United Way. She remains a commissioner.
Commissioners sworn in The Jan. 14 meeting was halted part way through its agenda to allow for the swearing in ceremony for new and returning commissioners. Geitner, representing District 2, has been re-elected to another four-year term in office. Newly elected Commissioners Cory Applegate and Bill Wysong also took the oath of office. Wysong replaces former Commissioner Stan VanderWerf, and his district includes the towns of Palmer Lake and Monument. **********
The El Paso County Board of County Commissioners (BOCC) usually meets every Tuesday at 9 am
Northern El Paso County Coalition of Community Associations, Jan. 11 Fire mitigation efforts explained
By Marlene Brown
The Northern El Paso County Coalition of Community Organizations (NEPCO) held its bimonthly meeting Jan. 11 at the Woodmoor Barn. There were 21 member homeowners associations (HOA) present at the meeting. There are over 54 HOAs in the NEPCO area, which includes Palmer Lake to County Line Road to the north, Gleneagle to North Gate Road to the south, Black Forest to Meridian to the east and Monument along the Front Range to the west. Yearly dues will be invoiced this month. Dues are based upon how many homes are in the HOA, usually less than $100 per year.
The first guest speaker was Jonathan Bradley, division chief of Community Risk Reduction, Monument Fire District (MFD).
Bradley explained that his department is focused on fire prevention and mitigation. The MFD service area is Palmer Lake to County Line Road to the north, Northgate Boulevard to the south, Black Forest Road to the east and Rampart Range to the west. Working with the community, preparedness is essential to lessen the risk of wildfire and loss of life, he said. Bradley said the following are necessary steps in fire prevention:
• Adult/school education and prevention.
• New construction reviews.
• Property inspections with homeowners for fuel reduction mitigation.
• Pre-fire plans including evacuation.
• HOA seminars available.
• Neighbors and Neighboring HOAs need to work together for effective mitigation.
Chipping days will be available. Registration will be announced soon. For more information email info@monumentfire.org or go the website www. monumentfire.org.
The other guest speaker was Roy Martinez of Tri-Lakes Preservation Inc., who talked about the proposed Buc-ee’s travel center.
Buc-ee’s was founded in 1982. It is a 24/7 convenience store. It’s estimated that 90 percent of the customers will come from I-25 and 70 percent of them will be from out of state. They plan to have 120 fuel pumps. The site cannot be
moved any farther north because that would be in Douglas County and Greenland is a conservation easement, Martinez said..
There are concerns regarding excessive consumption of water, power, and other natural resources. Water usage could be up to 860,000 gallons per month. There is a proposal to annex it into Palmer Lake, which would put a strain on the first responder staff, Martinez said. For more information, contact Woodmoor.writer@gmail. com.
**********
Bi-monthly meetings are usually held on the second Saturday of the month from 10 a.m. to noon at The Barn, 1691 Woodmoor Dr. in Monument. For more information on future NEPCO meetings and your HOA becoming a member, see www. nepco.org.
Marlene Brown can be reached at marlenebrown@ocn.me.
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
Specializing in Residential Cleaning
Overwhelmed?
Want your home spic and span? Call Stacy today! (719) 930-2178 www.agiftoftime.us
Ads in OCN are a cost-effective way to present your advertising message to businesses and residents throughout the Northern El Paso County area. For more information, contact John Heiser at (719) 488-3455 or ads@ocn. me or visit wp.ocn.me/advertise
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.
Thanks to OCN for its support
As we reflect on the wonderful turnout for our recent book signing of Shootouts, Killings, and War Heroes: The History Hidden in Monument’s Cemetery, we wish to express our gratitude to OCN for its coverage as we presented our research and photos to local community groups prior to the printing of the book. Folks at Covered Treasures Bookstore were amazed when they saw 70 books were sold in two hours of the November book signing. Our thanks to OCN and all who came to congratulate us on our endeavor as well as to purchase the book.
John Howe and Michael Weinfeld
Authors
Wildfire call to action
As I have watched the events of the last several
Letters to Our Community
days unfold in Southern California, I have been reflecting on what more we can do as a community with our wildfire preparedness and mitigation efforts. A wildland-urban interface conflagration is the greatest threat to lives and property within our jurisdiction. We need only look back to 2021 to recall the devastation wrought by the Marshall Fire in Boulder County that killed two people and destroyed 991 structures, becoming the most destructive fire in Colorado history.
In recent years, Monument Fire District (MFD) has proactively been doing the following:
• Hiring firefighters.
• Purchasing wildfire-specific fire apparatus.
• Developing wildfire preplans.
• Partnering with the U.S. Forest Service to conduct a prescribed burn.
• Writing a grant-funded community wildfire protection plan (CWPP) to include a partnership with the Town of Monument on a wildfire mitigation demonstration area adjacent to Monument Lake.
• Free wildfire home inspection program.
• Expanding our chipping/mitigation efforts with 23 homeowners associations.
• Utilizing state of the art technology/software for real-time incident notification/evacua-
tion.
And yet, I think we need to do more.
I understand that the ponderosa pine and vegetation are, in part, what attracted all of us to live in North El Paso County. However, fuels thinning and removal, planting fire-resistive fuels, and use fire-resistive materials in our home construction will make our community more resilient to wildfire. Today is a call to action to join our efforts to help prevent another Marshall Fire, Black Forest Fire, Waldo Canyon Fire, and what we have witnessed this week in Southern California.
I am asking each of you to help by establishing a chipping program in your community, become a FireWise community, mitigate your personal property, building or remodeling your home with fire-resistive materials in mind, have a free home inspection performed by MFD personnel, signing up for Peak Alerts, support removing vegetation from rights of way, and advocating wildfire preparedness to your neighbors.
We cannot do it without you! Please visit www.monumentfire.org or call 719-484-0911 to learn how to get involved.
Andy Kovacs
Fire Chief,
Monument Fire District
By the staff at Covered Treasures
“When we love, we always strive to become better than we are. When we strive to become better than we are, everything around us becomes better too”—Paulo Coelho
February is the time to feel the love. Check out these titles that offer a wide variety of ways for people of all ages to reflect on love as it relates to family, friendships, self, and/or community.
Publicity Stunt
By Bernadette Marie (5 Prince Publishing and Books) $20
try road trip, determined to make it back to home for their dream wedding. As the snow piles up and temperatures drop, will they make it home in time or will their plans be frozen in snow?
How to Love (Mindfulness Essentials No. 3)
By Thich Nhat Hanh (Parallax Press) $10
Share Your Love
By Susan B. Katz (Bala Kids) $19
A playful, rhyming book for kids ages 3-7 on how to send loving, kind thoughts to yourself and others to make the world a better place. This book teaches young readers that even from far away, you can wish others happiness, good health, peace, and safety. Starting with the individual child and extending outward to the whole universe, the rhyming couplets and beautiful art carry the reader through the thoughtful process of extending love and kindness to yourself and all those around you.
Despite their onscreen chemistry, co-stars Graham and Christina share no love off-screen. When rumors surface in the entertainment media suggesting they’re romantically involved, their managers seize the opportunity to capitalize on the speculation, offering incentives to enhance their fake relationship. Graham and Christina reluctantly comply, but unexpectedly, their pretend romance evolves into genuine affection.
A Winter’s Wedding
By Sarah Dressler (5 Prince Publishing and Books) $18
While on assignment in Las Vegas, America Greene gets a surprise visit from her fiancé, Leo. Their whirlwind romance becomes part of the story when they accidentally get married. With a wicked winter storm bearing down, their flight home is canceled and they set off on a cross-coun-
By Harriet Halbig
How to Love is a unique gift for those who want a comprehensive yet simple guide to understanding the many different kinds of love, along with meditative practices that can expand the understanding of and capacity for love. Appropriate for those practicing in any spiritual tradition, whether seasoned practitioners or new to meditation, How to Love includes meditations you can do alone or with your partner to go deep inside and expand your own capacity to love.
Time of the Child
By Niall Williams (Bloomsbury Publishing) $29
Doctor Jack Troy was born and raised in Faha, Ireland, but his responsibilities for the sick and the dying mean he has always been set apart from the town. His eldest daughter, Ronnie, has grown up in her father’s shadow and remains there, having missed one chance at love—and passed up an unsuitable offer of marriage. But in December of 1962 their lives are turned upside down when a baby is left in their care. As the winter passes, father’s and daughter’s lives, their understanding of their family, and their role in the community are changed forever.
Nate the Great and the Mushy Valentine
By Marjorie Weinman Sharmat (Yearling Books) $7
Nate the Great hates mushy stuff. But when he spies a big red paper heart taped to the outside of Sludge’s doghouse, Nate knows he must help out his favorite pooch. Who has left Sludge a secret valentine? This children’s book is a fun valentine read.
February Library Events
Guava and Grudges
By Alexis Castellanos (Bloomsbury YA) $20
This young adult romantic comedy is about two teens from rival Cuban bakeries who create a recipe for disaster when they start to fall for each other. This is a heartwarming story about falling in love with a future that is chosen rather than a future imposed by others. It’s a perfect combination of food, romance, and treachery.
Answers to Dog By Pete
Hautman
(Candlewick Press) $18.99
This heartwarming book for middle-grade readers explores friendship like no other—and the universal truth that dogs make life better for some people, especially for underdogs. Narrated in alternating viewpoints, this relatable contemporary novel has classic coming-of-age themes and is a satisfying read for animal lovers.
Until next month, happy reading.
The staff at Covered Treasures can be reached at books@ocn.me.
Winter Adult Reading Program
The 2025 Winter Adult Reading Program (WARP) will begin on Feb. 1 and run through March 31. This year’s theme is Color Our World and programs feature art, colorful food and drinks, and colorful parts of Colorado history.
Registration opens on Feb. 1, and those who register online or in person will receive the annual ARP tote bag while supplies last. After completing
By Marlene Brown
The Palmer Lake Historical Society (PLHS) held its Annual Potluck Supper and Membership Meeting on Jan. 16 at the Palmer Lake Town Hall. Members recapped their monthly meeting events and presentations for 2024 to include: The Monument Cemetery, Father’s Day Ice Cream Social, Life and Times of Gen. William J. Palmer, walking tours of historical sites in the area, and a field trip to The Trolley Museum in Colorado Springs.
PLHS is a 501C3 nonprofit that was formed in 1956, dedicated to the idea of education and preserving the history of the Palmer Divide. The Palmer Divide area includes Palmer Lake, Monu-
30 days of reading or other qualifying activities, participants will receive the annual WARP coffee mug and a coupon for dessert from Crumbl, and an entry for the grand prize of a $100 gift card from Natural Grocers or $60 in Crazy Cash for use at Brush Crazy.
Library employees are not eligible for the grand prize.
To register for the program, please go to the
Palmer Lake Historical Society, Jan. 16 2024 events recalled
ment, Tri-Lakes, School District 38, the U.S. Air Force Academy and east to Table Rock, including Black Forest.
The Mission of PLHS is to preserve, protect, promote, and provide access to historical data, artifacts and other items of significance relating to the Palmer Divide area. See palmerdividehistory. org. Another purpose of the society is to maintain and ensure the continuance of the Lucretia Vaile Museum, located in the Palmer Lake Library building at 66 S. Valley Rd., across the street from Palmer Lake Town Hall. Open Wednesdays 1 to 4 p.m. and Saturdays 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. Private tours available with reservation. Call the museum
library website ppld.org.
Programs include Paper Marbling at the Monument Library on Thursday, Feb. 6 from 1:30 to 3. Create one of a kind greeting cards, note cards, and stationery. All supplies are included. Harriet Halbig can be reached at harriethalbig@ocn.me.
Above: Palmer Lake Historical Society 2025 board members are, from left: Diane Kokes, vice president; Patricia Atkins, secretary; Jennine Engle, president; and Doug Lang, treasurer. Photo by Marlene Brown.
Between the Covers at Covered Treasures Bookstore Books that showcase love
Saturday, February 1, 2025
at (719)559-0837 for more information. There are volunteer opportunities at the museum and sponsored events. Memberships are available online at palmerdividehistory.org or you can submit your application by mail at P.O. Box 662, Palmer Lake, CO 80133. Some of the benefits of becoming a member are: meet new people who share an interest in local history, emails regarding the monthly events, and invitations to members-only walking tours and field trips. **********
High
Meetings are usually held on the third Thursday of the month from 7 to 8:30 p.m. (doors open at 6:30 p.m.) at the Palmer Lake Town Hall, 28 Valley Crescent St. They are free and open to the public. The Feb. 20 program is a presentation by Nikki Stratton about her grandfather Don-
17
ald Stratton, survivor of the USS Arizona during the attack on Pearl Harbor. For more information about PLHS and future programs, go to palmerdividehistory.org Marlene Brown can be reached at marlenebrown@ocn.me.
Altitude Nature and Gardening (HANG) Fermented February, cocoa mulch, and a chocolate “workout”
By Janet Sellers
Cocoa mulch can be toxic to pets, especially dogs. It contains theobromine, a chemical found in chocolate that is poisonous to dogs and other animals. A commonly used mulch, organic cocoa mulch, contains nitrogen, phosphate, and potash and has a pH of 5.8, adding beneficial nutrients to the soil. Using cocoa hulls in the garden is an excellent way to increase soil vitality and is an attractive top cover for flower beds and vegetable patches. Because this mulch is a byproduct of the chocolate-making process, it gives off a chocolate aroma that usually lasts two to three weeks from the time of application.
Hot cocoa, on the other hand, helps create stem cells for humans. A study conducted at the University of California, San Francisco found that individuals who drank a chocolate beverage containing high levels of cocoa flavanols twice daily for a month had significantly higher stem cell counts in their blood compared to a control group, suggesting that consuming chocolate with high cocoa content can potentially increase stem cell levels in the body; this is often attributed to the antioxidant properties of flavanols present in cocoa. Eating dark chocolate may also help your body make new stem cells.
Dark chocolate contains compounds called flavanols and proanthocyanidins that can stimulate stem cell production and movement.
The explanation? Cacao! The main ingredient in chocolate, cacao, contains bioactive compounds that may improve stem cell function, and here is some of the good stuff it offers. Flavanols: These compounds interact with cellular pathways, potentially stimulating stem cell production. Proanthocyanidins: These compounds cause stem cells to act more vigorously, similar to giving them a workout. Dark chocolate: Dark chocolate that contains at least 70% cacao is rich in polyphenols and magnesium. Stem cells: These cells are found in various places in the body, including bone marrow, under the skin, and lining of the intestines. They repair, replace, and regenerate worn out and dead cells.
Fermented February
Fermented February is a movement with many homesteaders and home gardeners. Fermented February is a social media campaign that encourages people to ferment foods and drinks in February to optimize good health. People share their recipes and fermentation tips on social media platforms like YouTube. Homemade soda from pine
needles? Yep. It’s citrusy, fresh, and filled with antioxidants for good health. I saw that people like to use the young “spruce tips” of blue spruce to infuse the flavor into the soda base, similar to how you would use other pine needles like white pine or fir needles. I have eaten the blue spruce tips in salads and they are yummy. Some homesteaders report they just collect spruce tips off the tree, wash and ferment in water with sugar for “wild fermentation” using what is on the pine needles already. They place the washed, dried and clipped (remove the papery fascicle) green needles in a flip-top bottle, fill with water, add some sugar (4 tablespoons to about a quart of the needle batch), shake, and leave to ferment, and in about two weeks it’s bubbly and ready to drink. Be sure to find a recipe of your choice. I found some online with a search, and I’ll try it out for Fermented February.
Carrot greens are tasty and free
We can eat carrot greens! Carrot greens are nutritious and contain lots of vitamin C, calcium, potassium, and phytonutrients. They also contain dietary fiber, which can help with digestion and blood sugar regulation. Carrot greens taste a little
like parsley and carrots and are a little bitter. Cooking them softens the bitterness. Greens from younger carrots are milder than those from older carrots. Carrots are biennial— they take two years to grow from seed. Most carrots we buy are roots, and the tops can be planted for seed in its first year in our gardens.
We can get carrot greens by regrowing carrot tops from the grocery store. Favorites include: Pesto: Use carrot greens in a pesto with olive oil, walnuts, and parmesan cheese. You can use pesto as a pasta sauce or spread it on toast. Salads: Toss carrot greens with other salad greens. Soups: Stir carrot greens into soups. Smoothies or green juice: Blend carrot greens into smoothies or green juice. Veggie burgers: Add carrot greens to veggie burgers. Herbs: Use carrot greens in place of parsley or basil. Chimichurri: Make a chimichurri with carrot greens, oregano, cumin, paprika, red pepper flakes, garlic, white wine vinegar, and olive oil. Breakfast strata: Use carrot top pesto in a breakfast strata, which is like a savory bread pudding. Janet Sellers is an avid “lazy gardener” letting Mother Nature lead the way to easy gardening. Send your garden tips to JanetSellers@OCN.me.
On the Trail (in memory of Tim Watkins) Monument Hiking Group to Ice Cave Cliffs and Cap Rock
By Steve Pate
Lisa Loeber organized members of the Monument Hiking Group (MHG) to make a hike to Ice Cave Cliffs on Jan. 16 along the Ice Cave Creek trail connecting with the Swank Trail north to a ridge that connects
with the Ice Cave Cliffs trail before the “polar vortex” extreme cold snap. Three of the group hiked to the Ice Cave Cliffs and climbed Cap Rock. Included here are some photos taken by Randy Phillips, an experienced local hiker, which give a
sense of the beautiful scenery in our Tri-Lakes area.
Eight hardy souls made the trek, a bit over seven miles round trip with an elevation gain of about 8,000 feet. The photos show MHG members at various segments of the
hike showing the terrain along Ice Cave Creek, a section of the Swank Trail, and some views from atop Ice Cave Cliffs and Cap Rock. Steve Pate may be contacted at StevePate@OCN.me.
Above: Brian Caldwell leads the way and Kerry Paige brings up the rear ascending Ice Cave Creek Trail. All photos by Randy Phillips.
Above: Ned Kraushaar leads with Kerry Paige bringing up the rear on Swank Trail.
Above: Mount Herman from Cap Rock.
Above: A rest stop on the Ice Cave Creek Trail. Front to back, Terri Walters, Ned Kraushaar, Wendi Renee, Brian Caldwell, and Kerry Paige.
The arts as medicine; Palmer Lake Art Group plans new venues
By Janet Sellers
We all can enjoy the arts. Creativity and its expression are for everyone, from the visual arts to music, poetry, writing, jewelry, religious relics, and more. Media in myriad forms are constantly being created for human expression since humans began. Our area is fortunate to have many artists and art events represented throughout the year, and preparations for these are also year-round.
The arts as medicine
“Thinking of the arts as medicine, arts as healing is innate... In indigenous languages in the country, to my understanding, there is no specific word for art because we live it. How do we remove these institutional silos and recognize the interconnectedness? How do we reconnect what has been disconnected? We operate
in these different capacities. We’re all part of a living, connected system. We can’t segment the spirit from the body, from the being, from the community.”—Justin Huenemann, the First Peoples Fund, caucus member, the White House Domestic Policy Council and National Endowment for the Arts (NEA).
An arts and cultural event, Healing, Bridging, Thriving: A Summit on Arts and Culture in our Communities held on Jan. 30, 2024, was cohosted by the White House Domestic Policy Council and the National Endowment for the Arts. It offered innovative insights to explore artists’ and arts organizations’ contributions that benefit communities and “invigorate physical spaces, fuel democracy, and foster equitable outcomes.”
Snapshots of
At the summit, U.S. Surgeon General Dr. Vivek Murthy said, “... music can, in a matter of seconds, make me feel better.” He spoke from the Constitution Center in Washington, D.C., adding, “I’ve prescribed a lot of medicines as a doctor over the years. There are few I’ve seen that have that kind of extraordinary, instantaneous effect”.
Palmer Lake Art Group announcements and Tri-Lakes Center for the Arts closure Palmer Lake Art Group (PLAG) announced a new lineup for shows and exhibits throughout 2025. In its recent newsletter it announced that in light of the Tri-Lakes Center for the Arts sale and closing, the PLAG board has been busy networking with other artist groups and exhibit locations. Commitments have been
made for expanded opportunities for the members to exhibit their work in well-established locations and community events. The PLAG flagship exhibit Winter Art Show is being held at the Garden of the Gods Visitor and Nature Center in Colorado Springs. The exhibit starts on Feb. 1, and the opening reception is Friday, Feb. 7 from 3:30 to 5 p.m. at the Visitor Center, 1805 N. 30th St., Colorado Springs. Coming up in March, we will have some updates on our local arts venues and locations, so stay tuned! Janet Sellers is an artist, writer, teacher, and speaker specializing in creative endeavors for health and communities through her indoor and outdoor murals, landscapes, and nature art, and offers local forest bathing hikes. Contact her at JanetSellers@ocn.me.
to his business, Bob explained the mistake and had them come back the next day and provided them with food from his own resources. It has continued every year and now is sponsored by the the Bob Telmossé Foundation (santabob.org). There is more information on the TLWC at https://tlwc.net.
Above: The final climb to Cap Rock. Photo by Randy Phillips.
Art Matters
Above: The Western Museum of Mining & Industry (WMMI) has a new exhibit.
A Moment in Time: The Nevada Northern Railway chronicles the photographic journey of Charles W. Case who used a Hasselblad 500C/M camera and Zeiss lenses to capture the railroad’s stark beauty. Jaime Gorrell, WMMI museum curator, opened the exhibit on Dec. 21. Museum volunteers Gary Steffens (in photo) and Steve Berry spoke to the pre-opening attendees about their experiences with railroading. Berry drove steam locomotive No. 40 on a recent trip to the railway museum in Ely, Nev. The exhibit runs through April 15. Photo by Allison Robenstein.
Above: On Dec. 14, 40 members of the Tri-Lakes Women’s Club (TLWC) gathered at the Colorado Springs Event Center located at Academy Blvd and Palmer Park and rotated throughout the afternoon helping our community neighbors’ select gifts as part of the Bob Telmosse Christmas Giveaway. There were thousands of people, many of whom spent a long time lining up during the overnight hours to enter when the doors opened at 9 am. The event started in 1983 as a result of a prank. Someone ran an ad in the Gazette Telegraph saying Bob Telmosse's business was giving away free food. When people come
Monument tree light removal, Jan. 2
Kiwanis bellringing check presented to the Salvation Army, Jan. 11
Geese at Big Red, Jan. 19
Above: Monument Hill Kiwanis Club (MHKC) presented a check for $32,212.50 to the Colorado Springs Salvation Army (CSSA) on Jan. 11. The money was raised by Kiwanis bellringers during the holiday season. Members rang the bell for a total of 392 hours. Rob Knoth led all volunteers with 47 hours of bellringing. Heide Baker was second with 21 hours and Mark Anderson was third with 19. MHKC thanked residents of the Tri-Lakes community, the Tri-Lakes Women’s
Club (TLWC), and Lewis-Palmer District 38 middle and high school Service Leadership programs for their help in reaching this goal. From left are Maureen Morgan and Kathy Sera-Budney of TLWC, Rich Couch of the Colorado Springs Kiwanis, Maj. Steve Ball of the CSSA, Mark Zieger from MHKC, Jeane Turner of the CSSA, Anderson and Knoth (MHKC), and Kiwanis President Bill Kaelin.
Photo by Warren Gerig.
Above and right: With the holidays in the rearview mirror, it was time to take down the lights at Limbach Park in Monument on Jan. 2. Workers from Savatree of Colorado Springs used poles that could extend 24 feet as well as
cherry pickers to take down the lights that had been on since Dec. 7. The lights surrounding the park’s bandshell were still lit as of Jan. 2. Photos by Michael Weinfeld.
Above: On a frigid Jan. 19 afternoon, over 50 geese found a bit of warm sunshine on lawn at the D38 administration building (Big Red). Photo by David Futey.
left, and co-President Kathy Sera-Budney accepted the award. MHKC honored TLWC for its continued long-term support of Kiwanis’ bellringing.
Left: On Jan. 15, Tri-Lakes Women’s Club’s (TLWC) started accepting grant applications for 2025. Organizations eligible to apply include nonprofits, public service organizations, and public schools that serve the Tri-Lakes area. This year’s grants are worth up to $3,000, $1,000 more than before. The application package includes instructions as well as other important qualifying information. Applications must be submitted by Mar. 15. The TLWC program focuses on smaller organizations that typically do not have the staffing or resources to pursue grants from major granting foundations. Since 1973, TLWC has provided over $1 million in grants to local organizations including Palmer Ridge High School (PRHS), which bought an Automated External Defibrillator with the money. In the photo is Annie Vandenbussche, a school nurse consultant at PRHS. Photo by Amy Matisek.
Monument Employees of the Year Foggy fishing, Jan. 26
Above: James Schubauer and Joe Castellano are Monument’s Employees of the Year for 2024. Schubauer, far right, is the parks superintendent and Castellano, middle, is the streets foreman. Interim Town Manager Madeline VanDenHoek, left, says the two were recognized by both their co-workers and the town’s leadership team for their “dedication, contribution and commitment to our community.” They were recognized at the Jan. 21 Monument Town Council meeting.
Palmer Lake Outdoor Classic, Jan. 21
Above: Monument Hill Kiwanis Club (MHKC) gave Tri-Lakes Women’s Club (TLWC) a Community Service Award on Jan. 11. TLWC member Maureen Morgan,
Photo by Warren Gerig.
Photo by Tina Erickson.
Above: The fog rolled in the morning of Jan. 26 making a mysterious scene on Monument Lake. The frozen lake was covered with ice fishing huts, and the trees were frosted white, making for a beautiful, though, cold morning. Photo by Michael Weinfeld.
Above: Fireworks ended the Fourth Annual Palmer Lake Outdoor Classic. More than a thousand people saw Pine Creek High School beat the Lewis-Palmer Rangers for the second straight year in an overtime shootout. The score was
3-2. The Eagles took home the Star trophy, shaped like the Palmer Lake Star that was lit for the tournament. The event raises money for the Lewis-Palmer hockey team. Photo by Michael Weinfeld. See also the photo on page 1.
Our Community News is an all-volunteer organization. Since 2001, our volunteers have provided unbiased reporting on important local issues, including real estate developments, fire departments, school districts, and water availability. We have provided a very favorable platform for advertising local businesses. We have published letters to the editor to allow you to express your opinions on events affecting the Tri-Lakes area.
Now we find that we have more tasks than we have volunteers. Some vital jobs where we could use your help:
• Reporters. Reporting on local meetings, what they talked about and what they decided.
• Photographers. Capture photos and write captions for local events.
• Ad sales assistants. We need volunteers who love OCN to contact local businesses and encourage them to advertise in OCN
• Mailing assistants. Counting and lifting tubs of papers to take the monthly mailing to the post offices and stacks of papers to local businesses, loading and unloading mailing tubs from a truck at two locations, preparing postoffice paperwork, tub labels, subscription labels, etc.
• Drivers. Driving a rental truck to various post offices once a month.
The time and skills involved vary greatly from job to job. OCN will provide whatever equipment and training you need.
Please join us today! Meet a group of interesting and committed people. Learn new skills—use your enthusiasm and creativity to benefit our community and celebrate unfiltered information.
Please call Publisher John Heiser at (719) 488-3455, or email johnheiser@ocn.me to see how you can contribute. Contact John today! He is waiting to hear from you. Together we can ensure that OCN continues to provide a vital service to our wonderful Tri-Lakes community An important message
An Audio Newspaper?
We are now posting audio files for most of our news articles. Go to www.ocn.me. Just under the headline for each article is an audio player. You can use the players on the website or download the audio files to listen on your devices. Toward the top of the page for the each issue is a link to download a ZIP file of all the audio files for that issue. If you have questions of problems, please contact johnheiser@ocn.me or call (719) 488-3455. Thanks for listening!
Our Community Notices
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 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.
Get Help in Larkspur Larkspur Church has a Food Bank and Care Center that offer a good variety of non-perishable food items, as well as clothing for men, women, and children, some household items available too. We’re here to help. If you are in need, or know someone who is, please reach out to Jeff at gethelp@larkspur.church. If you would like to donate contact Jeff by the same email to arrange a pick up.
Tri-Lakes Cares
needs your support
Tri-Lakes Cares is the only food pantry and human services organization serving northern El Paso County through emergency relief and selfsufficiency programs. The community-based, volunteer-supported center is a critical resource for our neighbors in need. The best way to help support Tri-Lakes Cares is to donate. Visit https://tri-lakescares. org/donate to learn how to donate money, medical items, personal supplies, or food. Please check the web for current needs in our food pantry at https://tri-lakescares.org/donate/current-needs. Donation dropoff hours are Mon.-Thu., 9 am-4 pm. For more information about TriLakes Cares or how you can help, contact Tri-Lakes Cares at 719-4814864 or info@tri-lakescares.org.
Palmer Lake Parking Restrictions during snow
When there is an accumulation of two inches or more of snow, the parking restrictions are in effect. No person may stop, stand, or park any vehicle on any portion of a snow route, or leave, abandon, or permit to remain stalled any vehicle, which is stalled on any portion of a snow route and must take immediate action to park the vehicle lawfully. Parked vehicles must be removed from all streets within the town, including those which are not designated snow routes. Parking information details: www.townofpalmerlake.com/pw/page/parkingrestrictions-during-snow.
Why advertise in OCN?
• OCN is mailed FREE to every resident and business in the Tri-Lakes area. We mail more than 23,400 copies every month and put another 700 copies in stacks throughout the area. OCN has the one of the largest mailed circulations among local newspapers in Colorado. We put copies of OCN into the hands of those people most likely to buy your products or services: local residents and businesses.
• OCN is a primary source for Tri-Lakes area news Since its founding in 2001, OCN has been presenting unbiased, detailed coverage of Tri-Lakes area governmental entities and their deliberations and actions. Credibility is key. Advertising in a credible medium typically rubs off on the advertisers in that media.
• OCN gives preference to Tri-Lakes area businesses As part of OCN’s long-standing commitment to encouraging the economic health of the Tri-Lakes area, we offer a significantly discounted ad rate to Tri-Lakes area businesses as a way to help local businesses like yours succeed.
• OCN’s low ad rates and monthly publication schedule help stretch your ad budget. OCN has one of the lowest ad costs per printed copy of any local publication. Since OCN is a monthly publication, your ad is out there for a month—more than four times longer than other local papers. Many of our advertisers tell us they’re still getting calls in the third and fourth week of the month.
• OCN doesn’t use contracts You aren’t tied down. Adjust your advertising month-to-month to meet your changing needs. Our advertisers run ads in OCN because they see benefit in it, not because they’re bound by a contract they signed months before. To reward frequent advertisers, OCN has a Frequent Advertiser Bonus (FAB) rewards program. You earn up to 10% of your ad cost as a reward you can use to reduce the cost of future OCN advertising. The more you advertise with OCN, the more you save. Thanks to our FAB rewards program, OCN advertisers have saved more than $111,000!
• You are supporting a good thing. Your advertising dollars support a unique all-volunteer, Tri-Lakes-focused effort to present factual, comprehensive news to all Tri-Lakes area residents and businesses.
And the best reason of all: It works!
Crystal Wright, Crystal’s In-Home Training - “I have had the best success with advertising in the Our Community News for my business. 95% of my new clients are coming from this local paper, and I couldn’t be more pleased. If you are thinking of advertising in the Monument area, I recommend you advertise with this paper.”
Mike Smith, Woodsmith Custom Creations - “OCN is the only paper that works for me. I’ve tried other newspapers, one that comes out daily and another that comes out weekly. Compared to the results I get from advertising in the OCN the other papers are flops. I get a fairly priced ad in my targeted area with calls referencing my ad every month. It can’t be beat!”
Randi and Dale Sehestedt, Woodmoor Handyman and Snow Plowing - “OCN is the only paper we advertise in and it consistently brings us plenty of good local customers. Great paper and great people to work with.”
Mary Sue Hafey, Fringe Benefits Custom Interiors - “Since I starting advertising with OCN years ago, it has helped brand my company while consistently increasing my exposure and sales!”
Elba D’Asaro, Spa Medica - “OCN ads work!”
Mike Reaster, Guitar Lessons - “Ads in OCN work great for me. I tried other local papers and got no response. Thanks to my ads in OCN, I can work from home and make a decent living. All my work comes from my ads in OCN.”
For more information on advertising, go to
Palmer Lake requirement to keep sidewalks and adjacent areas clean
It is the duty of all owners or occupants of every premises to keep the entire area between (a) the edge of the sidewalk closest to the building and (b) the gutter free and clear of snow, ice, mud, dirt, debris, rubbish, and filth. The area to be cleared includes, but not be limited to, the sidewalks and curbs in front of the building, graveled areas, bricked areas, and areas around planters, benches, trees and bushes. The area to be cleared does not include flowerbeds, elevated planting areas, or other similar elevated areas. The area to be cleared must be cleared of snow and ice within 24 hours following the snowfall or accumulation of a snowdrift or ice. Details of the town requirements: TownofPalmerLake.com.
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 21-80; 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 fourlane 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
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 info number for that event. Please contact calendar@ocn.me with changes and additions.
GOVERNMENTAL BODIES
• Academy Water and Sanitation District board meeting, Wed., Feb. 19, 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: 719-481-071119. academywsd.colorado.gov.
• Black Forest Fire/Rescue Protection District board meeting in person or via Zoom. Regular meeting is scheduled for Wed., Feb. 19, 7 pm. Usually meets third Wed., Visit http://www.bffire.org for updates and the agenda listing the Zoom joining codes or contact 719-494-4300.
• Donala Water & Sanitation District board meeting, Thu., Feb. 20, 1:30 pm, 15850 Holbein Dr. In 2023, meets third Thu., Check the website for the access code for the electronic meeting. Info: 719-4883603, www.donalawater.org.
• 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.
• El Paso County Planning Commission meeting, Thu., Feb. 6 & 20, 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, https:// planningdevelopment.elpasoco.com/planning-community-development/2025-hearings-schedule/
• El Paso County Regional Loop Water Authority meeting, Thu., Feb. 20, 9 am, Monument Town Hall Boardroom, 645 Beacon Lite Rd. Normally meets third Thu. Info: 719-488-3603. www.loopwater.org.
• Forest Lakes Metropolitan District, Pinon Pines Metropolitan Districts 1, 2 & 3 board meetings, usually meets quarterly on the first Mon., 4 p.m., via teleconference only. For dial in access and updates, visit www.forestlakesmetrodistrict.com.
• Lewis-Palmer School District 38 board meeting, Mon., Feb. 17, 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.
• Lewis-Palmer School District 38 Parent and Community Advisory Committee meeting (now PCAC, formerly DAAC), 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 Academy School Board meeting, Thu. Feb. 13, 6:30 pm, East Campus gym, 4303
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 times Mon.-Thu. 7-8:30 am and 2:45-4 pm and Fri 7-8:30 am. and 11:30 am-1 p.m.
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 719-488-0880 or email at volunteer@wmmi.org.
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.
Looking for something fun to do?
Space Foundation Discovery Center: www.discover space.org. See ad on page 12.
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.
Neighborhood safety
What qualifies as suspicious activity? “If you see something, say something.” It’s vital to report to
Our Community Calendar
Pinehurst Circle. Usually meets the second Thu. Info: 719-431-8001, www.monumentacademy.net/schoolboard.
• Monument Fire District board meeting, in person or via Microsoft Teams. Wed., Feb. 26, 4:30 pm, Station 1, 18650 Highway 105. For up-to-date meeting information, visit www.monumentfire.org for updates and the agenda listing the Microsoft Teams joining codes, or contact 719-488-0911.
• Monument Planning Commission meeting, Wed., Fed. 12, 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.
• Monument Sanitation District board meeting, Wed., Feb. 19, 9 am, 130 Second St. Zoom meeting. Find joining instructions on the website. Meets third Wed. Info: 719-481-4886, www.colorado.gov/ msd.
• Monument Town Council meeting, Mon., Feb. 3 & 17, 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-of-Trustees for remote attendance links.
• Palmer Lake Board of Adjustments meeting, Tue., Feb. 4, 5 pm, 28 Valley Crescent St., Palmer Lake. Normally meets first Tue., as needed.
• Palmer Lake Board of Trustees meeting, Thu., Feb. 13 & 27, 6 pm, Palmer Lake Town Hall, 28 Valley Crescent. Usually meets second and fourth Thu. Info: 719-481-2953. www.townofpalmerlake.com.
• Palmer Lake Sanitation District board meeting, Wed., Feb. 12, 9 am, call-in only: 650-479-3208, Access Code 76439078, 120 Middle Glenway. Meets second Wed. Info: 719-481-2732. www.plsd.org.
• Palmer Lake Town Planning Commission meeting, Wed., Feb. 19, 6 pm, Palmer Lake Town Hall, 28 Valley Crescent. Meets third Wed. Info: 719481-2953, www.townofpalmerlake.com.
• Tri-Lakes Wastewater Facility Joint Use Committee meeting, Tue., Feb. 11, 10 am , 16510 Mitchell Ave. Meets second Tue. Info: See tlwastewater.com/index.html.
• Triview Metropolitan District board meeting, in person or via Zoom. Thu., Feb. 20, 5:30 pm, 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 719-488-6868.
• Village Center Metropolitan District , meets monthly, the third Tue., 4 pm. Details and updates: https://wsdistricts.co/village-center-metropolitandistrict/. Serranos Coffee Shop, 625 CO-105, Monument.
• Woodmoor Improvement Association Board Meeting, Wed., Feb. 26, 7 pm, Woodmoor Barn, 1691 Woodmoor Dr. Usually meets fourth Wed. Info: 719-488-2693, www.woodmoor.org.
• Woodmoor Water & Sanitation District board meeting, Mon., Feb. 10, 1 pm, 1845 Woodmoor Dr., Monument. Normally meets second Mon. Info: 719488-2525, www.woodmoorwater.com.
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.aarpchapter-
local law enforcement. Suspicious activity can refer to any incident, event, individual or activity that seems unusual or out of place. Some common examples of suspicious activities include: A stranger loitering in your neighborhood or a vehicle cruising the streets repeatedly. Someone peering into cars or windows. Here’s what local authorities and Colorado Department of Public Safety says is needed information: Who did you see; what did you see; when did you see it; where did you see it; why it is suspicious. Call 911 or your local law enforcement agency.
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-and-donations, 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-pasocounty-co/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.
1100blackforest.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 425436-6200, 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. Al-Anon 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-anonco.org.
• Al-anon Meeting: Monument, every Thu., 7-8 pm, Ascent Church, 1750 Deer Creek Rd., Monument. Info: MonumentSerenity@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., 9:30noon. 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. Every Sun. 10:15 am worship service, 3190 Benet Lane, 80921.
• Bingo night , American Legion post 9-11 Tri-Lakes, 2nd and 4th Sat., 6-9 pm, Kings Deer Golf Club, 19255 Royal Troon Dr, Monument.
• 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, 11am 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.
• 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 Tri-Lakes 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, 719-210-4987, www.MHKiwanis.org.
• Monument Homemakers, bring a dish to share and your own table service, meet at Chamber of Commerce building, noon. 166 2nd St. Monument. Info and more about the club: Linda Case, 719-354-6575 for reservations.
• Monument Life Recovery Group, every Mon. 6:30-7:30 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-recoverygroup-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., Mar. 8, 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., Feb. 20 7-8 pm (doors open at 6:30), Palmer Lake Townhall, 42 Valley Crescent. Guest speaker Nikki Stratton tells the story about her grandfather Donald Stratton, survivor of the Pearl Harbor attack. The meeting is regularly held on the third Thu. of the month. Contact Kokesdm@yahoo.com. or see palmerdividehistory.org for more information.
• Pikes Peak Genealogical Society Class, Sat., Feb 1 12:30-3pm. ZOOM Meeting. Program: Elaine Fraser will talk about Getting The Most Out of Find A Grave For ZOOM Meeting details contact education@ ppgs.org. Information is on https://PPGS.org.
• Ridgeview Baptist Church, meets 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 TriLakes. 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, 719488-1902, carlsonmkc@gmail.com or Linda Lyons, 303-579-8114, lindalyons7829@gmail.com.
SPECIAL EVENTS
• Donala Water and Sanitation District, election to waive director term limits, Tue., Feb. 4, 7 am-7 pm. at the Donala office,15850 Holbein Drive, Colorado Springs, CO 80921.
• Kiwanis Monument Hill club Stars of Tomorrow talent competition applications deadline Sat., Feb. 8. See ad on page 10.
• Funky little theater: live theater Love Letters, Fri.Sat., Feb. 14-16, Palmer Lake Town Hall. See ad on page 2.
• Super Saturday geology day at the Western museum of Mining and Industry Sat., Feb. 22. March: Spring STEAM camp. See ad on page 12.
• Love Shop: restyle your fur event, Mon.-Tue., Feb. 24-25. See ad on page 8.
• School district 38 Chess Tournament, Sat., Mar. 8, Bear Creek elementary School. Pre-register each student at: https://tinyurl.com/mtscjsfd. Chess sets provided. Children should bring their own snacks, some refreshments will be for sale. Details: Steve Waldmann, Tournament Director/ Bear Creek Elementary Chess Club Coach, at huskerco@gmail. com; interested adults who would like to be one of our Tournament Referees contact Mr. Waldmann.
• MVEA board nominations, questionnaire due, Thu., Mar. 13. To be nominated please contact the MVEA board nomination information line at 719494-2528.
• Updated Monument History talk , Fri., Mar. 21 11-12:30 pm, hosted by Silver Key Senior Center. Presentation by Michael Weinfeld and John Howe. All are welcome, Grace Best Education Center, 66 Jefferson St.
• Spring STEAM Camp at the Western museum of Mining and Industry Tue.-Thu., Mar. 25-27. See ad on page 12.
• Affordable Flooring Connection, special offers. See ad on page 2.
• Borders decks, special offers, see ad on page 8.
• Eagle Wine & Spirits, special offers. See ad on page 3.
• Gleneagle Candle Company Valentine’s sale See ad on page 24.
• Mesa Health and Aesthetics, special offers. See ad on page 8.
• Mile High canine massage, special offers. See ad on page 4.
• Monument Cleaners, special offers. see ad on page 5.
• Monumental Med Spa, special offers. See ad on page 7.
• Mountain view electric association rebates available. See ad on page 9.
• Noel Relief Centers, special offers. See ad on page 7.
• PeakView Windows, special offers. See ad on page
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.
24.
• Plumb Smart plumbing services, special offers. See ad on page 3.
• Routes Outfitter: ski and bike service, special offers. See ad on page 5.
• Sharpest Cut: firewood sale. See ad on page 4.
• Stubby’s dog wash and grooming salon, special offers, see ad on page 2.
• Tri-Lakes Collision and Auto Service Center, special offers. See ad on page 5.
• Tri-Lakes Paint Company, special offers. See ad on page 4.
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
Winter Special - Recycled Asphalt! Hot mix asphalt paving •Hot rubber crack sealant/asphalt patch
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 individually-named commercial products or services will not be published.
Look for our next issue Saturday, Mar. 1
Ad space reservations due: Fri., Feb. 7
Finished ad artwork due: Fri., Feb. 14
Letters to the editor due: Fri., Feb. 14
Calendar items due: Fri., Feb. 21
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.
Life Happens. Let Us Help.
Peakstone Law Group
719.264.9858
5475 Tech Center Dr. Colorado Springs, CO 80919
