Vol. 25 No. 8 - August 2, 2025

OCN Our Community News N

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E

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

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Issue #293 — Volume 25 Number 8 — Saturday, August 2, 2025 Our website is OCN.ME. Audio is posted for most of the articles and videos for some events. In the paper, events with videos are marked:

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Tri-Lakes Senior Center moving to a new home

Local Events Readers should assume that event information published in this issue is subject to change and information should be confirmed a day or two before the event by calling the information number or checking the organization’s website.

See page 22 and page 23 for event locations and other details of these and many other local events.

• OCN mailing day, Thu., Sep. 4, approx. 7-8:30 am. Become an OCN reporter! Help us report 'What was discussed and what was decided.' Call 719-488-3455.

• Town of Monument Concerts in the Park, every Wed., 6:30-8:30 pm. Limbach Park.

• Monument Hill Farmers Market, every Sat., 8-2 pm. D38 Lewis Palmer admin building, 66 Jefferson Street, Monument. See ad on page 5.

• Palmer Lake Farmers Market, every Sun., 10 am-2 pm. Now taking new vendors, info: calvertsminimarket.com. See ad on page 2.

• Chautauqua and Palmer Lake.

July 28 - Aug. 3.

• YMCA fall youth sports registration, begins Aug. 3. See ad on page 6.

• Speed puzzle events, Tue. Aug. 5, Mon. 11 & 18. See ad on page 2.

• Fire Risk Mitigation for wildlands, Fri., Aug. 8, 5-6:30 pm • Lang Investment Services Annual Pig Roast, Fri., Aug. 8. See ad on page 21.

• Kings Deer Community Garage Sale, Aug. 8-10. See ad on page 4.

• Funky Little Theater Co. presents Tuesdays with Morrie, Fri. & Sat., Aug. 8-23, matinees at 1 pm, evening performances at 7 pm. See ad on page 21.

• Space Foundation Discovery Center 3D modeling and printing workshop, Sat., Aug. 9. See ad on page 12.

• Braver Angels & Reclaiming Civility hosting summer workshops to promote respectful dialog, Sat., Aug. 16.

• Tri-Lakes Cruisers 22nd Annual Benefit Car Show, Sun., Aug. 17, 9 - 2 pm.

• Checkered Table Talk, hosted

by TLWC, Tue., Aug. 19. Doors Open 5 pm Program 5:30-6:30 pm.

See ad on page 4.

• Hummingbird Festival, Aug. 22-23. See ad on page 3.

• Benet Hill Monastery, Labyrinth Retreat, Aug. 22-24, See ad on page 3.

• WMMI Super Saturday, Aug. 23.

See ad on page 12.

• Art Hop, Fri., Aug. 28, 5-8 pm, fourth Fri. May through Sept. See ad on page 2.

• 4th Annual Gleneagle Spirit 5k Run/Walk and Kid’s Run, Sat., Sep. 6, 8 am-noon • Palmer Lake Wine Festival, Sat., Sep. 13, 12-5 pm • Maker’s Market, Oct. 11-12. See ad on page 4.

In this issue Palmer Lake News 1-8 Monument News 1, 8-10 D38 News 10-11 Fire District News 12 Water & San District News 12-16 HOA News 16-17 No Letters Columns 17-18 Snapshots 18-20 Notices and Calendar 22-23 OCN Info 1, 21, 23

Above: The Silver Key at Tri-Lakes Senior Center has moved once again. They’ll take over their new location at the Monument Community Presbyterian Church at 238 Third Street on Aug. 4. The center was forced to move when the Lewis-Palmer D38 Board of Education voted to tear down Grace Best Education Center because it no longer met fire codes. The center has been at Grace Best for about three years. It started with the use of one classroom at Palmer Ridge High School. Then it was known as the Tri-Lakes Silver Alliance senior center and was in a modular building outside Lewis-Palmer High School. On July 14, more than 20 seniors attended a goodbye lunch at the center. In photo, volunteers remove furniture from the Grace Best building. Photo by Michael Weinfeld.

Palmer Lake Board of Trustees, June 30, July 10, 24

Candidates for board interviewed; recall election planned; annexation agreement published

By James Howald and Jackie Burhans At workshops in June and July, the Palmer Lake Board of Trustees (PLBOT) interviewed candidates for a vacant seat on the board. The board debated how to proceed with the recalls of Trustees Shana Ball and Kevin Dreher and with the petition to require annexations to be approved by the voters. Having decided to hold an election to settle the recalls and the question of annexations, the board grappled with the details of how that election would be held. The board continued its work on a plan to develop the Elephant Rock property.

Town Administrator Dawn Collins announced her resignation at a previous meeting and said July 17 would be her last day with the town, setting in motion an effort to recruit her replacement. The board met in its capacity as Local

Above: At the July 10 Board of Trustees Meeting, Fire Chief John Vincent answered questions and had firefighter Jared Cabunoc demonstrate a new battery-operated jaws of life, or fire extrication device. Vincent said the old device that was donated by Monument Fire District had broken down. The device will be used to gain access to a patient when needed. Vincent said the department had a spare battery. Trustee Dreher said it would not be needed often but when it was needed it was very important. Pictured from left: Cabunoc, Vincent. Photo by Jackie Burhans.

Licensing Authority to consider two “modification of premise” requests from cannabis businesses and a request for a new liquor license.

Finally, late in the evening of Friday, July 25, the board released details of the annexation agree-

ment it has negotiated with Bucee’s. Publication of the agreement does not complete the annexation process—the board will still need to vote on whether to approve the agreement. That vote has not been scheduled.

Palmer Lake (Cont. on 2)

Monument Town Council, July 7 and 21

Council focuses on growth, state mandates, and strategic planning

By Chris Jeub In a pair of July meetings, the Monument Town Council (MTC) worked through a hefty agenda that included local ambitions and state-imposed challenges. Council members discussed economic development goals, infrastructure projects, and compliance with new state housing laws. A joint session with the Planning Commission focused on the town’s 2040 Comprehensive Plan. Additional topics included lighting ordinances, financial reports, and public feedback.

Study Session: Economic development goals & objectives

At the July 7 study session, council

members focused their attention on setting clear economic goals for 2025 and 2026. Town Manager Madeline VanDenHoek led the discussion, outlining existing strategies tied to the Monument 2040 Comprehensive Plan. The plan emphasizes a vision for livable, walkable communities with engaging local amenities, which council members agreed is critical for attracting new residents and businesses.

The council discussed forming a dedicated Economic Development Committee made up of officials, business owners, and local residents to help define and support these goals. Ideas included boosting local tourism through

public art and partnering with organizations like DECA to bring students into the conversation. DECA is a not-for-profit group that prepares young people to be leaders in various fields. Councilmember Laura Kronick stressed the importance of engaging youth, while others pointed out that job creation must remain a key metric for success.

Though the town faces the reality of its smaller size compared to nearby cities like Castle Rock and Colorado Springs, council members agreed that Monument holds a competitive edge by offering a strong sense of community and targeted services. The

Monument (Cont. on 8)

Page 2

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Palmer Lake (Cont. from 1) Candidate interviews

On June 30, the board interviewed John Marble and Alex Farr for the vacant board seat created when Dennis Stern resigned and was appointed mayor. The appointee will serve the remainder of Stern’s

term, which ends in 2026.

Marble said he was a political science major at the Metropolitan State University of Denver; Farr discussed his experience as a firefighter.

Marble’s and Farr’s interviews are posted on the town’s webpage

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On July 10, the board interviewed Mike Boyett and Beth Harris. Boyett said he had 46 years of experience working for water utilities and was currently a member of the Palmer Lake Sanitation District board. Harris emphasized her decades of experience in the financial industry.

Boyett’s and Harris’s interviews are posted on the town’s webpage here: https://www.youtube.com/ live/H0AzqBigip8.

Following the interviews on July 10, the board decided to table the vote to fill the board vacancy until a meeting to be held on Monday, Aug. 4 at 5 p.m. at the Town Hall.

Recalls acknowledged and election date set

At the June 30 regular session,

Vol. 25 No. 8

Town Administrator Dawn Collins told the board that if Ball and Dreher did not resign, the board was required by Colorado statute to set a date for a recall election. That election would need to be held between 30 and 90 days from June 23, when the recall petitions were determined to be sufficient. Collins recommended Sept. 9 as the date for the recall election because GovPro Consulting LLC could support the election, and it could also address the ballot initiative requiring annexations to be approved by the town’s voters.

Ball said she had done nothing wrong or illegal and would not resign. Dreher said he would not resign either.

Ball moved to acknowledge the recall petitions for herself and Dreher and to set Sept. 9 as the date for a mail ballot election.

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Saturday, August 2, 2025 The motion passed unanimously with votes from Ball, Trustee Tim Caves, Dreher, Trustee Amy Hutson, Trustee Atis Jurka and Mayor Stern.

Following the vote, Jurka said he had reached out to El Paso County Clerk and Recorder Steve Schleiker to ask for his help with the recall election.

tion requested by Buc-ee’s.

Neither the determination of eligibility for annexation nor the town’s ability to negotiate an annexation agreement would be

Page 3

affected by the ordinance, Krob said.

Collins said she believed the election could cost between $25,000 and $30,000 due to the cost of

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Annexations to go before voters

At the June 30 meeting, Town Attorney Scot Krob told the board that a petition for an initiated ordinance requiring voter approval for all annexations had been determined to be sufficient on May 27. The ordinance would require an election for all annexations, even those approved prior to the adoption of the ordinance. The board had three choices, Krob explained: approve the ordinance at the current meeting, add the vote on the ordinance to the election just scheduled for Sep. 9, or pass a resolution providing an alternate ordinance.

Krob said the proposed ordinance would apply to any annexation applications that came to the board within one year of the passage of the ordinance—any annexation applications submitted after Sep. 9. 2024, including the flagpole annexa-

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printing ballots.

Stern asked for public comment and many residents took advantage of the opportunity to speak in favor of voter approval for annexations. Among the speakers were: • Sean Sawyer of Tri-Lakes Preservation, who

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said flagpole annexations were divisive and the board should let the voters decide them.

• Matthew Beverly, who suggested the annexation applicant should pay the cost of an election regarding their request.

• Kat Gayle of Integrity Matters, who argued that democracies require the consent of the governed and because the Buc-ee’s annexation would change the town forever the voters should decide. She pointed out that Colorado Springs voters had just defeated the Karman Line flagpole annexation.

• Resident Marty Brodzik said Buc-ee’s preyed on small towns.

• Dave Moon, of Tri-Lakes Preservation, said he and his team had canvassed 620 homes in Palmer Lake and about 72% were against the annexation. Only seven people were against voters having a say on whether the travel center will be built.

Following the comments, Cave moved to put the ordinance before the voters on Sept. 9. The motion passed with Jurka voting no, but the other trustees and Mayor Stern voting in favor.

Coordinated election with county not legal

At the July 10 meeting, Krob addressed the possibility that the election to decide recalls and whether annexations must be decided by the voters, which the board had scheduled for Sept. 9, could be combined with El Paso County’s election scheduled for Nov. 4. Combining the elections would save the town the considerable expense of running its own vote and several residents had argued for a combined TM

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Krob reviewed the applicable statutes and concluded the town’s election could not be combined with the county’s election. He pointed out that municipal elections for towns like Palmer Lake are governed by Title 31 rules, whereas the county’s elections are governed

by Title 1. Title 31 requires the town’s election to be within 30 to 90 days after the petitions are submitted. The town’s election could be combined with a “regular” election schedule to be held with 180 days, Krob explained, by the county’s Nov. 4 election was not a regular election because regular elections are held in even years. Krob concluded the town would need to hold its own election on Sep. 9, within the 30-to-90-day window, as it had voted to do.

Krob drafted Resolution 55-2025 to designate Sep. 9 as the date of an election to consider the recall of Ball and Dreher and to consider the initiated ordinance regarding annexation.

Erica Romero will serve as the Designated Election Official and can appoint election judges as required.

Jurka asked if the office of the El Paso County Clerk and Recorder could help with Palmer Lake’s election. Collins said it would provide ballot boxes, data regarding uniformed and overseas voters, election judges, training, and answers to questions. GovPro LLC would assist with the town’s election as well, she said.

Bill Wysong, the County Commissioner representing District 3, gave the board a letter from Steve Schleiker, the El Paso County Clerk and Recorder. Wysong confirmed the Clerk and Recorder’s office would assist administratively and operationally. In addition to the tasks listed

by Collins, Wysong said the Clerk and Recorder could proofread the ballot language to ensure compliance and accuracy. He said Schleiker was sorry he couldn’t attend the meeting.

The board voted to approve Resolution 552025 and to proceed with its own election on Sep. 9.

The board continued the discussion of the election at its July 24 meeting.

Newly appointed Town Clerk Erica Romero told the board that there will be three candidates on the ballot for Ball’s and Dreher’s seats if they are recalled: Elizabeth Harris, John Marble and Roger Moseley. Harris and Marble are also being considered for appointment to the seat vacated by Stern’s appointment as mayor.

Clerk and Recorder Steve Schleiker and his Director of Elections Angie Leath attended the meeting to answer questions and eliminate confusion. He confirmed Krob’s conclusion that Title 1 elections and Title 31 elections differ, and the town’s election could not be combined with the county’s in 2025. He told the board Collins and Romero had handled the planning for the election correctly and agreed with Collins’s cost estimate. He emphasized his office could supply experienced elections judges to oversee Palmer Lake’s election. Schleiker concluded by saying he would have staff at Palmer Lake to assist on Sep. 9.

Board gets assistance with Elephant Rock development

At its June 30 meeting, the board discussed Resolution 52-2025, which authorizes a service agreement with Prism Design and Consulting Group to perform survey work at the Elephant Rock property. The land surveying services include: • A boundary survey for the entire property, needed to establish two new internal parcels, one for the EcoSpa being developed by the Willans, and the other for the Lodge parcel. The Willans agreed to pay for the boundary survey of the EcoSpa parcel.

• Legal descriptions and survey markers for the two parcels.

• Topographic mapping and as-built data for the entire property.

Prism Design agreed to provide those services for $4,700. The board voted unanimously to approve the resolution.

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Above: At its rescheduled June 30 meeting, Police Chief Glen Smith announced that he had filled two open positions. One officer, Nick Hernandez, who had prior experience, was assigned to the midnight shift said Smith. The second hire was Officer Scott Horst who attended the meeting to take his oath of office.

From the left are Smith, Town Administrator Dawn Collins, and Horst. Photo by Jackie Burhans.

At the same meeting, the board considered two more agreements regarding the Elephant Rock property: the first with Community Matters Institute (CMI) to finalize a PD Sketch Plan and prepare a Planned Development Plan (PDP) plan based on materials provided

by Hutson and Caves, at a cost of $30,940, and the second with GMS Inc. for engineering services for an amount not to exceed $34,240.

After discussion and input from architect Bill Fisher and Richard Willans, the board voted unanimously to table both agreements without specifying a date for a future vote.

At the July 10 meeting, the board discussed hiring a real estate agent to sell the Lodge parcel. Krob said he had not reviewed information received from the realtor recommended

by Hutson. Hutson said she recommended a 10% commission or a flat fee of $50,000 for the sale of the Lodge. She said she wanted offers from businesses and that she would try to find a second real estate agent. Collins said if more than one agent was considered, a Request for Proposal (RFP) should be written. It was agreed that staff would prepare an RFP and Hutson and Cave would handle tours for interested agents and bring a negotiation back

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Vol. 25 No. 8

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Above: At the July 10 Board of Trustees meeting, outgoing Town Administrator Dawn Collins recommended that Erica Romero be named Town Clerk. Collins said Romero had completed two of the three years of certification and was in the process of completing the final year. The board unanimously approved the appointment, and Collins administered the oath of office which became effective July 18.

Pictured from left: Collins and Romero. Photo by Jackie Burhans.

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At the same meeting the board returned to the question of how to develop a PDP for the property, whether to have volunteers do the work or hire professionals. Hutson said she and Caves had met with Fisher, who did a lot of the legwork for the PDP. She felt they were 10 days away from completing a sketch plan for much less than CMI and GMS wanted to charge. She suggested engaging Prism Design to do the drainage and stormwater planning.

Hutson estimated $40,000 could be saved.

Reid Wiecks, Chair of the Parks and Trails Commission, asked to be involved in the PDP work.

The board did not vote, but the consensus

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Lewis-Palmer School District 38 Free and Reduced Price School Meals Policy 2025-2026 School Year Lewis-Palmer School District 38 announced its policy for determining eligibility of children who may receive free and reduced price meals served under the National School Lunch and School Breakfast Programs. Local school officials will use the following household size and income criteria for determining eligibility.

FEDERAL ELIGIBILITY INCOME CHART For School Year 2025-2026 Household size 1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 Each additional person:

Yearly $28,953 $39,128 $49,303 $59,478 $69,653 $79,828 $90,003 $100,178

Monthly $2,413 $3,261 $4,109 $4,957 $5,805 $6,653 $7,501 $8,349

Weekly $557 $753 $949 $1,144 $1,340 $1,536 $1,731 $1,927

$10,175

$848

$196

Children from families whose income is at or below the levels shown are eligible for free or reduced price meals. Applications for free and reduced price school meals, instructions and an informational letter to households are available at each school or online at www.lewispalmer.org/page/nutritional-services.

For the first semester of the 2025-2026 school year, the Lewis-Palmer School District will provide nocost meals for all elementary students. However, it is still important for households to provide their income information when requested. Gathering this information allows Lewis-Palmer School District 38 to receive the state and federal funding we qualify for. These funds go directly to schools to help cover the cost of meals and support after-school activities and other nutritional programs for students. Plus, qualifying households may be eligible for Summer EBT benefits, receive discounted school fees, class materials, bus passes, utilities support, and more.

Providing household income information ensures you and your school receive all available financial support.

was to proceed with Hutson’s recommendation.

At the July 24 meeting, the board considered an expanded professional services agreement from Prism Design, embodied in Resolution 58-2025, that added civil engineering services and preparation of the PDP to the land surveying services in the agreement that the board approved at the June 30 meeting. The civil engineering services include: • A Phase 1 Drainage letter at a cost of $2,800.

• An optional Phase 3 Drainage Analysis, Plan and Report at a cost of $12,150.

• An optional Erosion Control Plan at a cost of $1,200.

• An optional Stormwater Management Plan at a cost of $2,900.

The proposal from Prism Design indicated that which of these services will be required depends on decisions made by the town about how the property will be developed.

The PDP services include preparation of a new Planned Development exhibit and guide, prepared as a comprehensive exhibit map which will provide governance in specific uses, growth and development of the entire site. The exhibit and guide will include current conditions, future development zoning uses, improvements, lighting, stormwater runoff allocation, and so forth.

Caves moved to approve Resolution 582025. Resident Marty Brodzik questioned how the resolution was written, especially the absence of an upper limit on costs. The board voted unanimously to approve the resolution.

Following the vote, Caves followed up on some questions from the last meeting. He said the goal was to create a business at the Elephant Rock property that would provide long-term tax revenue by selling the Lodge on a 2.5 -acre parcel. He said he wanted to net $500,000 on the sale and generate $80,000 in annual tax revenue from the business that buys the land.

Ball pointed out the town has tried to honor the conditions set by the church that donated the Elephant Rock property to the town, but those conditions made it hard to get financing. Caves agreed that banks will not invest in a project that doesn’t own the land..

New Town Administrator sought

At the June 30 meeting, Collins gave the board two proposals to assist with recruiting a new Town Administrator: the first from Strategic Government Resources (SGR) for $29,000, the second from KRW Associates (KRW) for $21,000. She said the board should expect a four-month process to get a new Town Administrator on staff.

Stern balked at the proposed cost and asked if an RFP could be used. Collins said an RFP would not be appropriate, but a recruitment brochure could be pulled together. She said

Career & Innovation Center Update

EARLY REGISTRATION NOW - AUGUST 3RD Practice begins week of August 25th

ppymca.org/sports

We are getting closer to finally welcoming students at the new D38 Career & Innovation Center (CIC) that will provide work-based learning experiences for secondary students, opportunities for elementary camps, and community use. There are already several special events in the works to celebrate the opening of this new facility!

First, we will host an open house for students enrolled in classes on the campus and their families to provide an opportunity to tour the facility and get acquainted with the center.

Once the dust settles, we will host a ribbon cutting ceremony, likely in September, to commemorate this milestone with students, staff, families and our community.

We encourage everyone across our community to stay up-to-date on the progress of the new center via D38 communication channels. We are regularly sharing updates and photos on Facebook and Instagram, and our website is a great resource for details and announcements. Get ready for an exciting school year ahead that will include the launch of our D38 Career & Innovation Center! lewispalmer.org/page/ career-innovation-center

OCN

Saturday, August 2, 2025

Above: At the July 24 board meeting, El Paso County Clerk and Recorder Steve Schleiker and Director of Elections Angie Leath assured the town that it would assist in any way it could with the upcoming Sep. 9 recall and petition election. Schleiker confirmed that the town could not coordinate its election with the county’s November election as its charter only allowed coordination in odd years. He said the county was providing ballot boxes and chain of custody seals and would provide independent, trained election judges to assist with ballot counting.

Pictured from left: Schleiker, Leath.

Photo by Jackie Burhans.

all town jobs were posted on the Colorado Municipal League (CML) website. Ball said the CML director had offered to assist the town but had suggested the use of a recruiting company. The board voted to table the resolution authorizing the use of a recruiting firm.

At the July 10 meeting, the board returned to the process to replace Collins. The board heard a presentation from Kim Seamy of SGR, who emphasized the company’s connections with the Tri-Lakes area. Seamy said it was reasonable to expect 12 weeks to get an administrator in place.

Later in the meeting the board took up Resolution 53-2025, which would authorize the hiring of a recruiting firm. Collins told the board that KRW had withdrawn its proposal but offered to help with selecting an interim administrator.

Ball said the Department of Local Affairs could provide interim administrative services but not for free. She said she felt a recruiting firm was needed due to the town’s history with administrators and need for an experienced administrator. She said Collins “ had done an excellent job in showing citizens that we are being transparent, but it will take longer to overcome past ghosts. . . .Dawn turned the town around.”

Stern asked where $30,000 for the search could be found in the town’s budget. Collins said the General Fund could cover the expense and there would be $60,000 saved from unused wages.

The board voted unanimously in favor of the resolution, authorizing a contract with SGR to be signed.

At the same meeting, Erica Romero was sworn in as the Town Clerk after a unanimous vote by the board.

At the July 10 meeting, Chief of Police Glen Smith was appointed as Interim Town Administrator.

Smith discussed his many years in law enforcement, which included a leadership program taught by the Federal Bureau of Investigation.

Local Licensing Authority decisions

The board approved a request from Alpine Essentials to move its medical cannabis operation into the space currently allocated to its recreational sales. Owner Melissa Woodward said the change was requested to improve her business’s

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Dino Salvatori, the owner of the Dead Flowers dispensary, asked the board to approve the addition of a drive-through lane for his business. Salvatori said he hoped the lane would offset the business he has lost since Colorado Springs legalized recreational sales. The board approved his request.

Finally, the board approved a new liquor license for the 105 Social House, which is moving from its current location to 11 Primrose St., the previous location of Journey’s End Restaurant.

Details of annexation agreement with Buc-ee’s

The published documents can be found at: http://bit.ly/pl-proposed-annexation. The documents include this disclaimer: “NOTICE: this document represents the understanding of the Palmer Lake Board of Trustees of the items included in the proposal by Buc-ee’s to annex and develop within the town of Palmer Lake. It is for informational purposes only. The board has not made any determination as to whether the annexation should be approved and, if so, on what terms and conditions. The board will not make those determinations until the appropriate point in the process, at a public meeting.”

1. Water Infrastructure: • Buc-ee’s will cover all costs for drilling and implementing two wells (Well A-1 and Well A-3), a water treatment plant, and a 12” water line along County Line Road.

• Buc-ee’s has agreed not to seek reimbursement from the Town or other users of the line who may hook into it in the future. They will pay tap and service fees.

• Buc-ee’s will pay $4,297,027 for the Town’s redundant well (Well A-1) and ensure it produces 345,600 gallons per day of acceptable quality water.

• Buc-ee’s will also fund Well A-3 and related infrastruc• Low and No Maintenance Decks • In-House Design ture to meet its water demand (113,600 gpd max daily use). and Permitting • Repairs • Replacements 2. Road Improvements: * Buc-ee’s will repair a segment of County Line Road and make substantial improvements to the I-25 interchange at its own expense.

• Maintenance costs for County Line Road are under discussion with El Paso and Douglas Counties.

3. Financial Contributions: • Sales Tax: Buc-ee’s will receive 1% of the Town’s 3% sales tax for 20 years, with the Town retaining 2%, estimated A NEW APPROACH TO PAIN RELIEF to generate $1 million annuWe offer several new treatment options ally. for pain relief and optimal health.

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CONDITIONS TREATED: Back Pain • Neck Pain • Headaches / Migraines • Sciatica • Arthritis • Tendonitis • • Property Tax: Estimated anHerniated Disc • Frozen Shoulder • Trigger Finger • nual revenue ofN$124,066 E W D Afor Y C ORotator T T A Cuff G E Syndrome S A S S •IPlantar S T E Fasciitis D L I •VCarpal I N GTunnel HOMES the Town, plus benefits to othSyndrome • Jaw Pain / TMJ Syndrome • Sports Injuries • er entities like schools and fire Sprain / Strain Injuries • Fibromyalgia • More… districts.

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• Police and fire departments in other Bucee’s locations reported minimal adverse impacts, with increased budgets funded by revenue gains.

5. Planned Development (PD): • Buc-ee’s will submit landscaping, lighting, signage, architectural, and other plans for

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• Lighting will comply with Town standards but may not meet “dark sky” compliance due to safety needs.

6. Store Details: • The store will be 74,000 sq. ft. with fueling stations but no car wash.

• A kiosk, paid for by Buc-ee’s, will promote Palmer Lake events and artists.

7. Wastewater Treatment: Provided by Monument Sanitation District.

8. Subdivision and Disconnection: • The site will be subdivided per Town code.

• If development does not proceed as agreed, either party may disconnect the site.

9. Development Agreement: • Buc-ee’s will reimburse the Town for all project-related expenses.

• Remedies for breaches are limited to specific performance, not monetary damages.

Key Benefits to Palmer Lake: • Fully funded water and road infrastructure improvements.

• Significant tax revenue and community contributions.

• Minimal anticipated strain on emergency services. ********** The next regular board meetings are scheduled for Aug.14 and 28. See the town’s website at www. townofpalmerlake.com to confirm times and dates of

board meetings and workshops. Some meetings are scheduled just 24 hours in advance. Meetings are typically held on the second and fourth Thursdays of the month at the Town Hall. Information: 719481-2953.

James Howald can be reached at jameshowald@ocn.me.

Jackie Burhans can be reached at jackieburhans@ocn.me.

Monument (Cont. from 1)

Dark Sky compliance and lighting ordinance

ing compliance through community education and incentives rather than mandates, though sunset provisions for outdated fixtures were also explored.

cess. Tharnish noted that continuing with RESPEC makes logistical and financial sense given the firm’s extensive prior involvement.

The second resolution, 47-2025, also involves RESPEC and addresses a pressing issue related to El Paso County’s forthcoming upgrade to Beacon Lite Road. The County’s road redesign calls for significantly lowering the roadway, which would leave the town’s existing water pipelines dangerously shallow and out of compliance. Compounding the problem: these 50-year-old lines were installed without easements and have reached the end of their useful life.

The resolution authorizes RESPEC to design two new water pipelines— supply and return lines to the Monument Hill Tank— with a not-to-exceed contract value of $68,000.

Town staff emphasized that coordinating this pipeline redesign with the county’s roadwork could save significant costs by bundling mobilization and construction. The pipeline work is time sensitive as El Paso County plans to break ground on the road project this fall.

While both resolutions passed by a unanimous 7-0 vote, they were not approved without scrutiny.

Several members voiced frustration over escalating project costs and questioned whether the proposed solutions were truly cost-effective. They also challenged staff to be more proactive in communicating financial implications earlier in the process. The Council showed concern that even with “not-toexceed” language, actual spending could creep higher due to changes in scope or unforeseen issues. The Town’s commitment to infrastructure improvement remains strong, but members made clear that cost containment and oversight must be equally prioritized moving forward.

session wrapped up with acknowledgment that while Monument may never rival its neighbors in scale, it can carve out a unique and vibrant local economy that thrives on thoughtful planning and strategic partnerships.

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Following the study session, the council reviewed a detailed presentation on the importance of Dark Sky compliance. The presentation used compelling visuals to compare star visibility in Flagstaff—an official dark sky community—with the light-polluted skies of Phoenix, despite both being in the same state. Presenters emphasized that shielded lighting not only improves nighttime visibility and safety but also benefits businesses, citing research showing increased customer traffic and fuel sales following lighting upgrades.

The discussion also highlighted Monument’s potential to achieve similar benefits while preserving its natural environment.

LED technology was promoted as a cost-saving solution, with the potential to cut energy use by up to 75%. Council members leaned toward encourag-

Helping Youth Learn the Value of Leadership & Service

• Monument Hill Kiwanis Club (MHKC) Service Leadership Programs (SLP) are available in all LPSD 38 schools.

• MHKC organizes and mentors student-led SLPs to enrich their school experience and build life skills.

• In the 2023-2024 school year MHKC SLP students volunteered more than 1,000 hours of their time, collected more than 5 tons of food for Tri-Lakes Cares and raised more than $7,000 to improve their Community. monumenthillkiwanis@gmail.com

Making a ^ Difference for Youth and Our Community

Water projects approved despite budget concerns

The council unanimously approved two key water infrastructure resolutions and engaged in a candid discussion about contract structure and cost overruns in public works projects. The presentations by Public Works Director Tom Tharnish aimed to clarify engineering and construction practices, reinforce the urgency of infrastructure upgrades, and offer transparency about budgeting challenges.

Resolution 46-2025 approved Addendum #1 to the town’s 2020 engineering agreement with JDSHydro Consultants, now operating as RESPEC. The original project—designing a new water storage tank off Beacon Lite Road on Monument Hill—had stalled in 2021 due to complicated land survey issues. With those issues now resolved, the Town is restarting design work to accommodate updated operational demands and tank size considerations.

RESPEC will now finalize the structural design, update plans for larger capacity (1.5 or 2.0 million gallons), and prepare necessary documentation for the Colorado Department of Public Health and Environment (CDPHE) and county approvals. The approved contract, not to exceed $269,700, includes a full geotechnical analysis, final design drawings, a CDPHE basis-of-design report, and assistance through the bidding pro-

Monument’s future takes shape in joint planning meeting

On July 21, the council and Monument Planning Commission held a joint meeting to review progress on the town’s 2040 Comprehensive Plan. This marked the second collaborative session between the two boards and included a presentation by the Lakota Group, the consulting firm contracted to guide the planning process. Town Planning Director Dan Ungerleider facilitated the meeting and introduced

Saturday, August 2, 2025 Maryam Moradian, Monument’s newly appointed Senior Planner.

The meeting centered around the Existing Conditions Report, which concluded Phase 1 of the Comprehensive Plan. Based on significant public engagement— including 20 focus groups, two pop-up events, one community meeting, and 210 survey responses—the report detailed both the assets and challenges facing Monument. Residents value Monument’s small-town character, natural beauty, and historic charm.

However, concerns about increasing development pressure, traffic congestion, and the potential loss of community identity were repeatedly raised.

Monument’s population has more than doubled since 2010, now home to over 6,200 residents across 2,246 new households. Many newcomers are older, wealthier, and moving from out of state or other areas of Colorado.

Although the town is generally affluent, with 41% of households earning over $150,000 annually, planners noted a surprisingly large portion of residents earn under $50,000—an often-overlooked demographic. Nearly all employed residents commute elsewhere for work, but Monument’s location on I-25 makes it ideal for light industrial development, even as competition from retail hubs like Castle Rock and northern Colorado Springs has grown.

Several town leaders weighed in on the challenges and opportunities ahead. Mayor Mitch LaKind acknowledged the “Tale of Two Cities” divide between the east and west sides of town and asked how Monument might attract more high-paying jobs locally. Mayor Pro Tem Steve King emphasized the importance of making better use of limited land, cautioning that large industrial buildings consume substantial acreage. Kronick was encouraged by the depth of the findings, while Kenneth Kimple expressed concern that developers often fail to consider the broader needs of the town. Ungerleider responded that while developers naturally focus on their own projects, the town must shape development through zoning, permits, and a strong comprehensive plan.

The next phase will focus on establishing vision, goals, and strategies to guide Monument’s growth through 2040. Updated zoning codes, improved east-west connectivity, expansion of parks and open space, and revitalization of downtown will all be on the table. The planning team will present draft strategies to the public and Steering Committee later this fall. As Councilmember Marco Fiorito put it, “It really gets me upset when I have to spend my date night pouring money into Colorado Springs”—a sentiment that underscored the urgency of attracting more entertainment, dining, and retail opportunities to Monument.

OCN density, and infrastructure. King criticized the legislation, saying, “When it is top-down like this, it strains us.” King also voiced support for limiting the number of ADUs per property and requiring owner occupancy. Fiorito raised concerns about water use and tap fee structures, while Kimple pointed to setbacks and overall neighborhood density as areas of concern. Ungerleider acknowledged the law’s complexity, noting that municipalities must find ways to “promote but also protect” under the new regulations. Monument has requested an extension on its compliance report, which is due to the state by Sept. 28.

Mayor LaKind went a step further, questioning the constitutionality of the law under Monument’s home rule authority. “Even though we have ADUs on the books, they are now telling us how to manage,” he said. The council discussed potential penalties for noncompliance and floated the possibility of a lawsuit against the state. In addition, King singled out House Bill 24-1107—addressing judicial review of local land use decisions—for particular scorn, stating bluntly, “I hate this bill.” LaKind echoed the frustration, referring to one of the new measures as simply “stupid.”

Other state mandates discussed included requirements for streamlined EV charger permitting procedures (HB24-1173), turf restrictions in new developments (HB25-1113), and eliminating family definitions for residential occupancy limits (HB24-1007).

Some laws, such as HB25-1093 (limiting anti-growth policies) and SB25-002 (regarding factorybuilt structures), allow some local discretion but still preempt key areas of zoning regulation. Ungerleider emphasized that the town’s upcoming Monument 2040 Comprehensive Plan update would incorporate required housing assessments and compliance measures to address these state directives.

However, the consensus among councilmembers was clear: the state’s aggressive push into local land use decisions is both unwelcome and potentially damaging to the character and autonomy of the town.

Public comments summary

1. Historical Street Naming. A resident proposed renaming a local road “Wandering Cow” to commemorate the area’s unofficial livestock mascots—cows and donkeys—that have freely roamed a nearby pasture for years. The speaker noted that existing neighborhood names like Wagons West, Trails End, and Santa Fe Trails already reflect regional heritage, and this new name would add a

lighthearted, historically rooted touch.

2. Wastewater Reuse for Water Supply. A resident encouraged the town to consider capturing water from the Tri-Lakes Wastewater Facility as a potential alternative water source.

They cited direct and indirect potable reuse methods that are legal under Colorado law and urged the town to investigate further, emphasizing longterm sustainability in the face of increasing demand.

3. Turf Conversion and Xeriscaping Inquiry. Another speaker raised the idea of transitioning away from traditional Kentucky bluegrass lawns in favor of native turf or xeriscaping, referencing state grant programs available to larger municipalities. They asked if Monument was exploring similar water-conservation efforts, and whether this was “in the mix” of town sustainability initiatives.

4. Commissioner Bill Wysong, one of El Paso County’s five commissioners, addressed the council. He acknowledged the complexity of funding for roads, trails, and other countylevel infrastructure—especially given the limited property tax allocations once school districts take their share. Wysong also discussed county perspectives on water reuse and housing, offering to represent Monument’s concerns at the county level and report back on relevant initiatives. Councilmembers welcomed his presence and encouraged future collaboration.

Reports Presented on Taxes, Budgets, Investments, and Management

At the July 21 meeting, Finance Manager Laurie Young provided an update on the Town of Monument’s transition to self-collecting sales tax. The new system, GovOS, has enabled the town to set up 18,400 accounts and directly manage tax reporting from 396 in-town businesses. Staff has conducted 42 in-person business visits and responded to numerous inquiries to facilitate the transition. Benefits of the system include real-time reporting, immediate delinquency identification, and the ability to generate confidential reports on business performance and transactions.

In her quarterly budget report, Young summarized the town’s financial position as of June 30.

The General Fund benefited from a $400,000 subsidy from the 2A fund, along with savings from eliminating and freezing several administrative and police department positions. Looking ahead,

Page 9 budget strategies for 2026 include a full review of employee compensation and insurance, a reevaluation of service levels, and a focus on technology-driven efficiencies.

According to the report, the budget outlook is cautiously optimistic, with new businesses contributing additional revenue and results from a townwide fee study expected soon.

Senior Accountant Steve Murray presented the quarterly investment report, highlighting the town’s diversified investment strategy. The Wells Fargo overnight sweep generated $290,145 through June, while a $400,000 CD with First National earned $3,762.

The Colorado Trust Account, which includes a variety of reserve and special-purpose funds, brought in $183,665. Other notable sources of income included BOK Financial ($5,477) and restricted government bonds through Piper Sandler totaling $10.8 million in holdings.

Overall, the report said, the town’s investments are performing steadily with a focus on liquidity, safety, and returns.

Town Manager Madeline VanDenHoek provided a comprehensive report on town operations.

Highlights included the successful town picnic and employee recognitions, the dedication of a P-51 Mustang sculpture at Town Hall, and ongoing updates to the municipal code. Her team has launched planning for the 2026 budget and begun outreach for the Citizens Service Level Committee. Other major efforts included Laserfiche records management implementation, business retention site visits, improvements in IT infrastructure, and strong coordination for the July 4 events. VanDenHoek commended staff for their continued progress and community engagement. Special recognition was given to her Executive Assistant and Communication and Event Specialist Portia Hermann for her outstanding work organizing this summer’s Concerts in the Park series, which have drawn strong community attendance and positive feedback. ********** 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, August 4 and 18. 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.

Push back against new state housing laws

At its July 21 meeting, the council held a detailed discussion on a series of new state land use mandates that will significantly affect local zoning and development policy. Planning Director Ungerleider presented an overview of several new laws passed by the Colorado General Assembly, most notably House Bill 24-1152, which compels municipalities to allow at least one accessory dwelling unit (ADU) on every property zoned for singlefamily detached housing. The law overrides many local regulations, requiring an administrative approval process, prohibiting design standards stricter than those for primary homes, and limiting parking and owner-occupancy restrictions.

Council members expressed sharp disapproval over the law’s implications for local control,

8/31/25.

Page 10

Read, download, search, and listen to OCN content at our mobile-friendly website OCN.ME

Vol. 25 No. 8

Monument Planning Commission

Commission welcomes new leaders, reviews major development amendment and vision for Monument’s future

By Janet Sellers In the July 9 meeting marked by new leadership and forwardlooking discussion, the Monument Planning Commission addressed several significant developments shaping the future of the town.

The agenda included the election of new officers, the introduction of a new commissioner, a detailed public hearing on a key development proposal, and updates on Monument 2040—the town’s comprehensive plan for long-term growth.

New Faces and Roles on the Commission The evening began with the announcement that Chair Trujillo would be stepping down from his position. The Commission unanimously approved the May 14 meeting minutes, which included final clarifications on conditions related to the Legacy sketch plan.

There was no June meeting.

Planning Director Dan Ungerlieder introduced John Parr as the newest member of the Commission. Parr brings over 40 years of construction experience, primarily in large-scale hospital, data center, and high-rise projects. Though

new to municipal planning, Parr expressed enthusiasm for supporting Monument’s future through informed growth and community engagement.

Leadership elections followed, resulting in Ray Egley being unanimously elected as the new Chair, and Corey Peterson as Vice Chair.

Native Sun Construction Amendment Reviewed

A public hearing was held to consider a major amendment to the Native Sun Construction Planned Unit Development (PUD) at 15010 Woodcarver Road. The proposal, presented by architect Rohs Heck of F9 Productions on behalf of property owner Winston Jessup, included a series of design and site layout changes. These included an office building relocation to the southeast corner of Lot 2, shop building relocation to the northwest portion of the property, regrading of Lot 1 to accommodate the new layout, addition of a deceleration lane on Woodcarver Road to improve traffic flow, and reconfiguration of construction yards for open circulation, replacing the previously approved internal street network.

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Town staff confirmed that the amended plan meets all zoning, design, and landscaping standards. Supporting documentation—including a traffic generation analysis and a final drainage report—was reviewed and supported by Jacob’s Engineering, the town’s contracted engineer.

No public comments were submitted, and commissioners raised only technical questions related to the visual orientation of buildings from Woodcarver Road. Ultimately, the proposed changes were seen as compatible with the comprehensive plan and consistent with the town’s development goals, and a motion was approved for its recommendation to the town.

Comprehensive Planning: Monument 2040 Takes Shape

In a presentation that underscored the town’s long-term vision, Planning Director Dan Ungerlieder updated the Commission on the Monument 2040 Comprehensive Plan.

The Existing Conditions Report, compiled through four months of community outreach and consultant research, is now available on the Monument 2040 website.

(Monument2040.com).

This foundational report outlines the current demographic, economic, land use, and infrastructure conditions in the town and will guide the next stage of the planning process—visioning. The upcoming visioning phase, expected to take three to six months, will explore what Monument should look like in the next 20 years. A joint work session with the Town Council took place on July 21 at 5:00 p.m., where commissioners, council members, and planning consultants will discuss trends, community input, and next steps.

Ungerlieder encouraged participation and light-heartedly mentioned the possibility of food at the session. He also noted that the plan-

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Looking Ahead

With no additional comments or business, the Commission adjourned the meeting unanimously.

The evening highlighted not only a period of leadership transition but also a renewed dedication to community-driven planning.

As the Monument 2040 visioning process unfolds, residents and officials alike will play an active role in defining how the town evolves in the decades to come. ********** The Monument Planning Commission advises the Town Council on land use and development issues.

The commission’s recommendations are based on local and state laws, zoning, and municipal codes.

The Planning Commission usually meets on the second Wednesday of each month. The next meeting of the Monument Planning Commission was scheduled for August 13, according to the Planning Commission website. For further information on Planning Commission meetings, please visit www. townofmonument.org/263/planning-commission-board-of-adjustment or contact 719-884-8028. A recording with a transcript of the meeting is also available.

Janet Sellers can be reached at JanetSellers@ocn.me

Monument Academy School Board, July 17

Board prioritizes marketing plan, passes policy on religious opt-outs

By Jackie Burhans The Monument Academy (MA) school board met in July to elect officers, and appoint committees, urge the creation of a marketing plan, and pass a policy to allow for religious opt outs to curriculum, take other board actions and hear reports. There were no committee updates.

Board organization

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ning department is set to be fully staffed by the end of the month, expressing excitement about the expertise the new hire brings.

He says, community outreach has been robust, with staff making appearances at local events such as the farmers market, summer concert series, and the Fourth of July parade, distributing tote bags, pens, and information about the comprehensive plan.

“This plan won’t work unless the whole community is part of it,” Ungerlieder emphasized. “And once it’s approved, we have to implement it. That’s where the real work begins.”

Board member Craig Carle was sworn in for his second term and the board voted to retain its leadership positions with President Ryan Graham, Vice President Lindsay Clinton, Secretary Jilinda Dygert, and Treasurer Carle.

The board confirmed the following committee assignments: • Curriculum West – Clinton • Curriculum East – Matt Ross • SAAC West – Clinton • SAAC East – Dygert • Governance – Dygert, Graham • Finance – Carle, Graham • Building and Facilities – Graham • Resource Development Committee – Carle, Clinton

Swift action urged on marketing plan

Clinton pressed Executive Director Collin Vinchattle to act urgently on a long-delayed marketing plan, citing concerns about upcoming refinancing decisions and declining enrollment.

Vinchattle said the team has been evaluating data, identifying top-performing channels such as social media and Google banner

ads, and developing a plan following a three-hour strategy session earlier that day. Some initiatives are expected to launch with the new school year.

Clinton expressed concern over the lack of visible progress, pointing out that marketing was identified as a top need at the board’s retreat over a year ago. Clinton also questioned whether any external marketing firms were evaluated. Vinchattle confirmed that while pricing had been researched for social media content creators, no full-service marketing firm had been considered, citing budget constraints.

Current marketing efforts are handled primarily by the school’s marketing director, who oversees social media, tours, events, the website, and more, he said.

Graham supported a more aggressive approach, urging collaboration between Vinchattle and board members Clinton and Carle over the next 30 days. “We cannot get to August and then punt to September,” Graham said. “We are at a very critical juncture.”

The board discussed reallocating Employee Retention Tax Credit (ERTC) funds to bolster the marketing budget, which currently includes $10,000 for content creation.

Board members agreed to reconvene in August to review a revised marketing plan and updated budget, with input from Clinton and Carle. The plan is expected

OCN

Saturday, August 2, 2025

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Above: Craig Carle was sworn in for his second term on Monument Academy’s school board by President Ryan Graham. Carle continues in his role as Treasurer and was appointed to the Finance and Resource Development committees. From left are: Board members Matt Ross, Jilinda Dygert, Carle, Graham, and Vice President Lindsay Clinton. Photo by Jackie Burhans.

to guide outreach ahead of key fall events and MA’s upcoming thirty-year anniversary.

Dygert said she appreciated the foundational work Vinchattle had done on the seven tenets and educational philosophy that could go into the marketing plan.

First read of religious opt-out policy

Graham introduced and read policy IRJB-MA Parental Notification and Opt-Out for Curriculum Materials Potentially Conflicting with Religious Beliefs in its entirety.

The policy allows parents to opt their children out of any curriculum that may conflict with their religious beliefs per a recent Supreme Court ruling. Schools must notify parents in advance when instructional materials pose “a very real threat of undermining” the religious beliefs parents wish to instill in their children.

Teachers must identify sensitive content and provide alternative assignments. The policy lays out guidelines, training, and processes, saying it will be implemented neutrally for any religious or secular perspective. The policy says the school will continue to comply with Colorado anti-discrimination laws and ensure that all students feel safe and supported. The draft policy is available at bit.ly/maboarddocs for the July 17 meeting.

Graham noted that some of the wording needed to be revised as it said “district” and should say “school.” He also said it should be explicit that kids who are opted out will be taken to a different classroom. Clinton expressed concern that it had an exception for spontaneous selection of curriculum, saying that there were processes for curriculum selection and review. Carle asked if teachers were being trained on what topics might raise concerns and Vinchattle said he was working with lawyer Brad Miller to explore what the guidelines might look like.

Dygert asked if there was a list of current curricula available for parents. Vinchattle noted that there were documents on the scope and sequence for core knowledge, and some loose documents on what High School students read but said those could be formalized.

Graham said the topic would come back to the board in August.

Highlights

Board meeting highlights include: • Executive Director.

Vinchattle updated the

•

•

•

•

board on his action plan that resulted from the organizational audit that was performed in the past year, highlighting accomplishments in academics, budgeting, professional development, educational philosophy, job descriptions, and curriculum.

Finance. Director Laura Polen reviewed May numbers by school and fund, saying that total income for all three schools is $707,000 less the cost of the modulars and the parking lot purchase. There was a loss of $58,000 overall for May, but MA is still ahead on a year-to-date basis. Polen is preparing for the 2024 audit.

Staff Welcome Breakfast. The board unanimously voted to authorize up to $2,000 to provide breakfast to the staff on the first full day of work on Aug. 7.

Vinchattle invited the board to come in and introduce themselves to new and returning staff at the West Campus.

AeroLab Contract. The board approved a contract with AeroLab, pending legal review, to provide programming for MA’s homeschool enrichment program for middle and high schoolers. See w w w.falconaerolab. org for information.

Design Advisory Committee. In anticipation of the build-out of phase 2 facilities at the East Campus, the board approved the creation of a committee to include two board members, Carle and Graham, two executive administrative members, two staff members and two par-

•

ents.

Executive Session: The board ended its meeting with an executive

session for negotiations and advice to negotiators regarding the legal engagement and fee

structure for a lawsuit in support of girls safety and equal opportunity. No action was taken after the executive session. ********** The MA School Board meets at 6:30 p.m. on the second Thursday of each month. The next regular board meeting is scheduled for Thursday, Aug. 14, at 6:30 p.m. at the East Campus. The agenda and packet are available at bit. ly/ma-boarddocs.

Jackie Burhans can be reached at jackieburhans@ocn.me.

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Vol. 25 No. 8

Monument Fire District, July 23

Station 2 operational; property inclusion approved

By Natalie Barszcz At the Tri-Lakes Monument Fire Protection District (TLMFPD) dba: Monument Fire District (MFD) meeting on July 23, the board heard multiple station updates and that crews had re-occupied the remodeled Station 2. The board held a public hearing before approving an inclusion of property and received an update on the 2024 audits.

Director Cody Peterson was excused.

Vice President John Hildebrandt joined the meeting via Microsoft Teams at 4:37 p.m.

Station updates

Division Chief of Administration Jamey Bumgarner said the following: • Station 2 has been re-occupied by crews, and a grand reopening/public viewing date is to be determined. For future announcements visit www.monumentfire.org.

• The Station 3 rebuild (north of the YMCA) received plat approval from the Town of Monument. The water and sanitation needs will be met by Woodmoor Water and Sanitation District, and a cost share for the widening of Jackson Creek Parkway north of the Higby Road intersection will be met by the district and all developers east and west of the

•

•

north portion of the parkway.

Groundbreaking could begin in the fall.

Work continues on the Station 1 Training Center site development and pricing is underway.

The National Fire Protection Association standards changed since the district priced the training tower, resulting in a cost increase for the standard change. The district expects to receive the four storied class B training tower to be positioned east of Station 1 on the district owned 14 acres in July 2026.

The district expects to move staff to the rented future administrative building/storage facility at 19775 Mitchell Avenue, Monument on Sept. 8.

Sun Hills property update

President Mark Gunderman said he and Fire Chief Andy Kovacs had discussed the sale of 15000 Sun Hills Drive, the former Donald Westcott Fire Protection District (DWFPD) Station 3 with the Sun Hills HOA. The HOA has not changed its position regarding the future of the former station and would prefer the district return the land back to the original lot or sell it to the HOA but not sell to another party. The 1-acre parcel was originally donated by a former Wescott fire chief, and the original adjacent 4-acre property is owned by former board mem-

ber Charles Fleece. Legal counsel Maureen Juran will be reviewing the legal documents to figure out the next step for the district, said Gunderman. See https://wp.ocn. me.v25n7mfd.

Property inclusion petition

Director Randall Estes opened a public hearing on a petition for the inclusion of real property into the district, for joint owners Drew J Walton and Maria L Duran of Walton Ranch, LLC located at 16750 Thompson Road, Colorado Springs, CO 80908. Hearing no opposition, the public hearing was closed.

In a roll call vote 6-0, the board approved Resolution 202507, granting the inclusion of real property into the district.

2024 audit presentations

Division Chief of Community Risk Reduction Jonathan Bradley said audit filing extensions had been approved by the state for the MFD and DWFPD 2024 audits. The audits are still under review by CBIZ, and the board will receive the final position before accepting the 2024 audits at a future board meeting, said Bradley.

Financial update

Treasurer Tom Kelly said the district is at 50% of the total budget year to date as of June 30, and presented the following:

•

The combined overall revenue received year to date is about 57.8% of the 2025 income projected annual revenue set at about $24.235 million.

• Overall expenses year to date are about 46.7 % of the projected expense budget set at about $18.764 million.

• The district had about $21.3 million in total checking/savings.

The board accepted the financial report as presented, 5-0.

Note: Due to administrative staff annual vacation time, this reporter did not receive the financial report before publication. The reports and updates can be found at www. monumentfire.org.

The meeting adjourned at 5:11 p.m. ********** Meetings are usually held on the fourth Wednesday every month.

The next regular meeting is scheduled for Aug. 27 at 4:30 p.m. at Station 1, 18650 Highway 105. For Microsoft Teams virtual joining instructions, agendas, minutes, and updates, visit www.monumentfire. org or contact Director of Administration Jennifer Martin at 719484-9011.

Natalie Barszcz can be reached at nataliebarszcz@ocn.me.

Woodmoor Water and Sanitation District, July 14

2025 budget gets midyear tune up

By James Howald At the July board meeting, District Manager Jessie Shaffer discussed midyear adjustments to the Woodmoor Water and Sanitation District’s (WWSD) 2025 budget. Richard Hood, a project manager with JVA Consulting Engineers, Inc., proposed a less costly approach to a project to update a lift station on Lost Arrowhead Drive. The board heard operational reports, and the meeting ended with an executive session.

Minor changes to 2025 budget

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Shaffer told the board that the amount budgeted for construction of facilities was reduced from $3.8 million to $2.6 million due in part to a decision to forgo drilling a new Dawson aquifer well and instead to improve Well 13, which was never fully brought into production.

Shaffer said the drilling company damaged the well’s screen, the portion of the well casing that allows water to enter the well, when the well was first drilled. Well 13 was never formally abandoned, however, and in its current state it can produce 30 gallons per minute for less than it would cost to drill a new well. Shaffer said the cost of a new well that was drilled at the Central Water Treatment Plant site was $200,000 less than budgeted.

Shaffer said the renewal and replacement schedule for 2025 included $600,000 for saddle replacements but that amount needed to be increased to $675,000.

There were fewer pump failures than expected and that line item was reduced from $325,000 to $260,000. The money budgeted for providing backup power for a lift station needed to be increased from $557,000 to $670,000.

Shaffer determined it was cheaper to buy a used tractor for use at the Woodmoor Ranch than it was to rent one, so $20,000 was moved from the equipment rental line item to the vehicle purchase line item.

Money allocated to professional fees increased because cash flow modeling for the Loop water reuse project was added to the district’s task list.

Shaffer said the 2025 budget anticipated 112 new homes; that

number was adjusted down to 70, reducing the revenue expected from water and sewer tap fees.

Alternative found to lift station rehab

Shaffer told the board that bids to update the aging equipment at the Lost Arrowhead lift station came in much higher than expected, prompting the district to consider alternative ways to support the 150 customers who rely on the station. Hood said the bids for that project ranged from $834,000 to $1.15 million.

Hood developed three alternative routes for the wastewater handled by the lift station, all three of which relied on gravity rather than electric pumps and allowed for the elimination of the lift station altogether. Lidar, a laser imaging technology, and a traditional survey showed that one of the three options was best. The preferred option requires an 8-inch pipeline to be drilled using an easement between two houses that would use gravity to convey wastewater from the lift station to an existing lift station on Greenland Forest Rd. Hood estimated the cost of that option to be $645,000.

In response to a question from Board President Brian Bush, Hood said he recommended mothballing the Lost Arrowhead lift station.

Shaffer suggested pulling the pumps and electronics and filling it with sand.

Hood said that, in addition to saving operating costs by eliminating a lift station, the proposed solution would solve an existing capacity problem; the Lost Arrowhead lift station is overfilling manholes when operating at peak capacity. That problem would be solved by rerouting the pipeline, according to Hood.

Operations Superintendent Dan LaFontaine pointed out that the Lost Arrowhead lift station was built before the Greenland Preserve subdivision was built.

Board Treasurer Dana Franzen said the proposal would save $200,000 up front and there would be additional savings on operating costs.

The board authorized Shaffer

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WWSD (Cont. from 12) to pursue the solution as proposed by Hood.

Operational reports

In his financial report, Franzen said the district was “on track for almost all revenue items.” The board voted unanimously to accept the report.

In his manager’s report, Shaffer updated the board on the state of the Loop water reuse project.

WWSD is one of three districts participating in that effort. He said he expected Burns & McDonnell to have its design for the Loop’s water treatment plant to 30% completion by Hal-

loween and its design for the lift stations and pipeline to 30% completion by Thanksgiving. A Request for Proposal for a plan to enlarge Calhan Reservoir had been published and Shaffer said he expected that design to be 30% complete by the end of the year. Once these plans and designs are 30% complete, a more accurate Opinion of Probable Cost for the entire project will be possible, Shaffer said.

Shaffer also mentioned that the district was considering moving to a different vendor for online billing if Xpress Bill Pay can’t quickly resolve a billing problem reported at the last board

meeting. He said office staff manually corrected the billing problem when it occurred so that it doesn’t impact customers.

In his water report, LaFontaine updated the board on his ongoing work to lower the district’s unaccounted for water. Repairing two leaks his team located last month did not reduce the unaccountedfor water as much as he had hoped, LaFontaine said. The district is replacing older saddles, which connect service lines to mainlines, and most of the saddles replaced are found to be leaking, which suggests the water loss may be due to many small leaks

rather than a few larger leaks. The rainy weather has kept Lake Woodmoor fuller than expected, he said.

In her report, District Engineer Cydney Saelens noted that Well 12R, being drilled in the Woodmoor Preserve, was nearing completion. She said the well was “fully developed,’ that is, the silt and sand from drilling had been removed using compressed air or water. The sound walls should be removed by July 23, she said.

Executive session

The meeting ended with an executive session to get legal advice on nego-

Vol. 25 No. 8

tiating positions regarding potential agreements with the Mines Shopping Center, Buffs Wash, the Loop Water Authority, Monument Fire District, Classic Homes, and CSI Construction Co. ********** The next meeting is on Aug. 11 at 1:00 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.

Monument Sanitation District, July 16

Buc-ee’s potential impact studied

By Jackie Burhans and James Howald In July, the Monument Sanitation District (MSD) board met briefly to hear operational details from District Manager Mark Parker, who focused on studies underway to assess the impact of wastewater from the proposed Bucee’s travel center. Parker also discussed an ongoing evaluation of the district’s wastewater collection system.

Buc-ee’s wastewater expected to have little impact

Parker told the board the estimate of the wastewater the proposed Buc-ee’s travel center would produce had been revised using actual numbers from a like-sized Buc-ee’s and now stood at 27,000 gallons per day. He said the district’s engineers were not worried about the updated estimate, which was a “minimal” fraction of what the district is currently pro-

cessing. That amount was “a lot less” than the residential development that was previously planned for the site would have produced, Parker said. In addition to the updated estimate, Buc-ee’s had submitted a preliminary plan for the pipeline that would connect the travel center to MSD’s system.

Parker explained that El Paso County was pushing Buc-ee’s representatives to finalize their plans for the infrastructure required to move wastewater from the travel center into MSD’s collection system so that the county could start improvements to Beacon Lite Road that include leveling and straightening the road.

In response to a question from Director Janet Ladowski, Parker said Buc-ee’s has paid for the

wastewater studies done so far. MSD assumes no responsibility for development projects, he said.

MSD’s long-standing policy is that the district’s engineers bill the district for any work required by new development and the district forwards the bills to the developer for payment, he said. He added Buc-ee’s would build any necessary pipelines at its expense and, once complete, MSD would take ownership.

System evaluation underway

Parker said an annual evaluation of the district’s pipeline and manholes was underway. An assessment of the pipelines had been completed with no major issues found. The manholes would be inspected, photographed, and evaluated for inflow and infiltration.

Parker said he expected the

evaluation to be complete by the end of August.

Parker also mentioned that security upgrades, including video and motionsensing lighting, were underway at district facilities. ********** Monument Sanitation District meetings are held at 9 a.m. on the third Wednesday of the month in the district conference room at 130 Second St., Monument. The next regular meeting is scheduled for Aug. 20. See https://MonumentSanitationDistrict. org. For a district service map, see https://MonumentSanitationDistrict. org/district-map. Information: 719-481-4886.

Jackie Burhans can be reached at jackieburhans@ocn.me.

James Howald can be reached at jameshowald@ocn.me.

Donala Water and Sanitation District, July 17

Board tours treatment facility, adjusts sewer bills

By James Howald and Jackie Burhans The Donala Water and Sanitation District (DWSD) board met in July at the Upper Monument Creek Regional Wastewater Treatment Facility (UMCRWWTF) to tour the facility and to amend the policies by which sewer bills are calculated in two problem cases. The board also heard operational reports and held an executive session.

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Wastewater treatment facility tour

Waste Plant Operator Aaron Tolman led the board on a tour of the UMCRWWTF, which is located at 14770 Jumping Mouse View. He highlighted the facility’s Programmable Logic Controller (PLC), which was upgraded over the past year. The PLC controls the operation of the treatment facility and is the center of its Supervisory Control and Data Acquisition (SCADA) system. The PLC upgrades provide more granular control over the facility’s components and processes and replaced manual controls with more precise digital controls, resulting in savings on energy costs and adding redundancy to operations. The upgrades also improve the purity of the effluent that is released into Monument Creek.

Above: At its July 17 workshop, Aaron Tolman, waste plant operator for Donala Water and Sanitation District (DSWD), gave a tour of the Upper Monument Creek Regional Wastewater Treatment Facility. The tour included a glimpse at the newly installed Programmable Logic Controller shown above that automates the plants functions, the digester that breaks down organic matter present in sludge, and the compactor that removes excess water from the biosolids before they are hauled away to landfills. Photo by Jackie Burhans.

Board President Wayne Vanderschuere said the upgrades were also designed to improve the cybersecurity of the facility.

Bills adjusted for snowbirds and leaks

At the July meeting, the board voted on Resolution 2025-4, which changes the way sewer bills are calculated for customers who have water leaks or who spend the winter months outside the district. The changes were discussed in detail at the board meeting in May. That discussion

can be found here: https:// wp.ocn.me/v25n6dwsd/.

DWSD uses water consumption during the winter months to calculate each customer’s sewer bill.

This method assumes that none of the water used during the winter months is used for irrigation and, therefore, during the winter months, a gallon of water used creates a gallon of wastewater. This method creates two problem cases: if a customer has a water leak during the winter months, that results

Saturday, August 2, 2025

OCN

Page 15 Hodge also updated the board on the status of the Well 7D redrilling project. The well is done, he said, and water testing is underway.

Helen Malenda-Lawrence of LRE Water is calculating the amount the district’s water rights will allow it to pump from the well. The Colorado Department of Health and the Environment will need to provide the permit for the well. Preliminary tests show good water quality, Hodge said, adding he expected the well to produce 200 gallons per minute.

In his Water Report, Superintendent of Water Operations Ronny Wright told the board repair work on the lid of the east water tank was complete and the next step would be to sandblast the west water tank.

In his Wastewater Report, Tolman said Timberline Building Systems had installed an ultrasonic flow transducer in the flume through which the UMCRWWTF discharges treated effluent into Monument Creek. The transducer is integrated with the facility’s SCADA system.

Executive session

Above: The interior of the wastewater digester. Donala is a co-owner and operator of the Upper Monument Creek Regional Wastewater Treatment Facility. along with TriView Metro District and Forest Lakes Metro District. Photo by Jackie Burhans.

in too high a charge for sewer service, and if a customer spends the winter months outside the district, that results in too low a charge.

The resolution provides for a Water Leak Adjustment program to address the first case and specifies that the district’s annual lower quartile consumptive average will be used to calculate sewer bills in the second case.

Vanderschuere pointed out that no changes were being made to rates.

The board voted unanimously in favor of the resolution

Operational Reports

In his Manager’s Report, General Manager Jeff Hodge suggested the district hold an open house for customers as part of the district’s public outreach efforts. The open house would be an opportunity to thank residents living near the Well 7D drilling site for their patience and understanding for the disruption caused by the drilling operation, and a chance to educate the public about the district’s operations. He proposed Thursday, Sep. 25 from 4 to 7 p.m. for the open house.

The meeting ended with an executive session to receive legal advice from counsel regarding the district’s pending water court application in Case No. 24CW3019. ********** The next board meeting has been moved to Thursday, Aug. 14 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

Triview Metropolitan District

2024 audit receives unmodified opinion; construction bid awarded

By Natalie Barszcz At the Triview Metropolitan District (TMD) meeting on July 17, the board received the 2024 audit presentation, approved an amendment to the 2024 budget, and awarded the Construction General Manager Contract (CMGC) bid to Kiewit for the completion of the Higby Road project.

The board held an executive session to discuss the purchase and sale of water and land, economic incentive agreements, and agreements with the Town of Monument (TOM), and other governmental and private entities, including Creekside Developments, LLC., and associated entities.

2024 audit is “clean”

Audit Manager Diego Martinez of Haynie and Company presented the 2024 draft audit and financial statements. The district received a “clean” or unmodified opinion.

The board unanimously accepted the audited financial statements and authorized the district accountant to file the documentation with the state of Colorado.

2024 budget amendment

District accountant Cathy Fromm said a fund amendment was necessary for the 2024 budget. The original budget appropriated funds of about $16.976 million to the water and wastewater enterprise fund/capital projects fund, but the 2024 budget required an additional $2.217 million, to pay for the Colorado Springs Utilities (CSU) water costs and tap fee credits reimbursed to contractors. The additional funding is available in the total revenue, that was estimated at about $13 million and ended at about $15 million, said Fromm.

The board unanimously approved the 2024 budget amendment.

Higby Road construction agreement

McGrady requested the board approve Resolution 2025-1 to widen and improve Higby Road.

The district received solid bids with a maximum price of about $12.4 million to build the road.

Kiewit will have a notice to proceed in August with completion of the road improvements in November 2026. The district occasionally takes on large projects such as the widening of Jackson Creek Parkway that cost about $6.6 million in 2018, said McGrady. See https://wp.ocn.me/ v25n7tmd/.

The board unanimously approved a CMGC agreement for construction services between Kiewit Infrastructure Company and TMD, that includes the establishment of a guaranteed maximum price in the amount of about $12,450 million, and authorization for the district manager to sign the documentation.

Defense and indemnification policy

General counsel George Rowley said as a result of the board workshop held on June 20, a defense and indemnification policy had been developed to provide protection for the board

directors and district employees. He requested the board approve Resolution 2025-13, a resolution providing a defense and indemnification policy.

The board unanimously approved the resolution.

Water operations update

McGrady said the district budgeted 700-acre feet of renewable water to be transported via the Northern Delivery System for 2025. Water Utilities Superintendent Gary Potter looked at the budgeted and used water, and a decision was made to implement higher well usage during the higher demand months of July and August, pumping ground water to manage the budgeted surface water. The cost to deliver ground water is far less than surface water, however it is unreliable for long term use and the cost to replace well equipment is high. The district continues to supply renewable water to customers, with good inflows of water coming in from the districts water rights, said McGrady.

Executive session

The board moved into executive session at about 8:35 p.m. to discuss the purchase, acquisition, lease, transfer, or sale of real, personal, or other property interests needed by the district, pursuant to Colorado Revised Statutes (CRS) section 24-6-402(a), and to receive legal advice pursuant to CRS section 24-6-402(4) (b), as it relates to water matters and agreements with the Town of Monument (TOM), and other governmental and private entities including Creekside Developments, LLC and associated entities. The session also determined the district’s positions relative to matters that may be subject to negotiations, related to the purchase and sale of water and land, economic incentive agreements, and agreements with the TOM, and other governmental and private entities including Creekside Developments, LLC and associated entities, pursuant to CRS, section 24-6-402(4)(e).

Assistant Manager Steve Sheffield confirmed to this reporter that when the board returned to the regular session at 9:45 p.m., the board unanimously approved an addendum to the partial termination agreement with Creekside Developments, LLC. The meeting promptly adjourned. ********** Meetings are usually held on the third Thurs-

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day of the month at the district office located at 16055 Old Forest Point, Suite 302. The next regular meeting is scheduled for Aug. 21 at 5:30 p.m. For meeting agendas, minutes, and updates, visit https://triviewmetro.com.

Natalie Barszcz can be reached at nataliebarszcz@ocn.me.

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Vol. 25 No. 8

El Paso County Regional Loop Water Authority, July 17

2024 finances receive clean audit opinion

By James Howald The El Paso County Regional Loop Water Authority (EPCRLWA, or the Loop) board met in July to hear an audit report on its 2024 finances and a monthly financial report. Rebecca Hutchinson, a Civil Design Engineer with Merrick and Co., gave the board a progress report on work being done by the consulting and engineering companies that are contributing to the project. Hutchinson has replaced Mark Valentine as the Loop’s Interim Workflow Manager, who coordinates the work being done by the several specialists working on water quality, water treatment, easement acquisition and other aspects of the water reuse project. Valentine announced he has taken a job with Colorado Springs Utilities.

2024 finances get highest possible rating

Courtney Vance, an auditor with Sorren, Inc., told the board her audit report found “nothing negative to express.” The audit went well, she said. Vance complemented the work done by Fromm and Co., LLC, the Loop’s accountants, and said she had an open line of communication with the Loop’s board as she performed the

audit.

The Loop’s assets increased by $497,000 in 2024 due to funding received from the American Recovery Plan Act and increased capital assets. These increases were offset by a slight decrease in cash. The Loop’s liabilities decreased by $58,000 due to quicker payment of vendors.

The Loop’s net position increased by $497,000.

The board voted unanimously to accept Vance’s audit report.

Monthly financial report

Corbin Fromm told the board that invoices totaling $82,128 had been received in July, with $51,975 in services from Merrick being the largest cost. The board voted unanimously to authorize Fromm to pay the invoices.

Fromm said the Loop had spent just over $295,000 in 2025 to date, or about 5% of its budget for the year.

Progress report

Hutchinson told the board that a contract had been signed with Burns & McDonnell for that company to design the lift stations and pipelines needed to convey water from Fountain Creek to customers in the participating water districts.

Another round of water quality data was received from JVA, Inc. Hutchinson said she was organizing a meeting between Burns & McDonnell and Western States Land Services LLC, the company acquiring the easements needed by the lift stations and pipelines. Hutchinson said she was ensuring the easements in northern El Paso County were coordinated with the plan to widen Higby Road. Finally, Hutchinson said a Request for Proposal (RFP) to expand the Calhan Reservoir so that it can store water diverted from Fountain Creek had been published. Merrick will evaluate the responses to the RFP and will advise the board, Hutchinson said. ********** The next regular meeting is scheduled for Aug. 21 at 9 a.m. Regular meetings are held on the third Thursday of each month at 9 a.m. at the Monument Town Hall at 645 Beacon Lite Road.

Workshop meetings are held the first Thursday of each month at 9 a.m. at the Monument Town Hall. Please see loopwater.org or call 719-4883603 to verify meeting times and locations.

James Howald can be reached at jameshowald@ocn.me.

Northern El Paso County Coalition of Community Associations

Developer reduces home sites, HOA affected state laws

By Marlene Brown The Northern El Paso County Coalition of Community Associations (NEPCO) held their meeting July 12th at The Barn on Woodmoor Dr. led by the President of the Board, Mike Aspenson.

Aspenson reiterated the purpose of NEPCO and welcomed the Board and the Members. Members are Homeowner Associations and there are 49 current members in northern El Paso County, 22 members represented at the meeting Aspenson stressed the point that the NEPCO Board is looking for more volunteers and thanked Greg Knierim of Mountain Top Technology, who has helped NEPCO with their new website and e-mail host server. See nepco.org.

After the treasurer’s report, Harold Larson, Member-at-Large, gave an update to the proposed layout for development of the property on the southeast corner of I-25 and County Line Road. The developer has agreed to go from 480 to 340 home sites. The developer is awaiting final approval from El Paso County before starting construction.

Guest Speaker – David Firmin, Altitude Community Law

David Firmin explained the laws that have been in the state legislature and or signed by governor this year that have an impact on HOA’s.

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SB25-184: The continuation of the HOA information and Resource Center in Division of Real Estate and serves as a resource for consumers to understand their basic rights and responsibilities under the Colorado “Colorado Common Interest Ownership Act” (CCIOA). The Center provides information to homeowners regarding their basic rights and responsibilities, creates resource materials, and provides a website and education for the public. The Center provides an annual report to the legislature. The Center does not mediate or arbitrate on behalf of homeowners, board members or community association managers. The Center does not provide legal advice or investigate disputes between homeowners or associations. For more, go to dre.colorado. gov/Hoa-center.

HB25-1182: Tools to Assess Risk for Purpose of Underwriting. Requires insurers to provide information and methods used to determine risk regarding mitigation activities. Also requires insurers to provide wildfire risk models for specific mitigation actions or community level mitigation activities.

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HB25-1205: Implentation of Fair Access to Insurance Requirements (FAIR) Plans. The bill introduces clarifications and protections regarding the Fair Access to Insurance Requirements (FAIR) Plan Association, which is designed to provide access to basic property insurance in areas where coverage is otherwise difficult to obtain. FAIR is not an insurer, but an association that has member insurers.

• HB25-1322: Provide Copy of Insurance Policy – requirement that insurance carriers shall make available a certified copy of the policyholder’s insurance policy within 30 days after written request by registered agent.

For these and other HOA questions, contact David Firmin at dfirmin@altitudelaw. ********** NEPCO usually meets bi-monthly on the second Saturday of the month 10 a.m.-12 p.m. at “The Barn,” 1691 Woodmoor Dr. Monument, CO 80132. For more info on future NEPCO meetings and your HOA becoming a member, see www.nepco.org Marlene Brown can be contacted at marlenebrown@ocn.me

Woodmoor Improvement Association, Jul. 23

Board recognizes Eagle Scout project, clarifies parking near open spaces

By Jackie Burhans The Woodmoor Improvement Association (WIA) board met on July 23 to celebrate an Eagle Scout project and clarify rules about parking near common areas. The board also heard director reports. The WIA June meeting was cancelled due to a lack of quorum.

of parked vehicles per household to four.

Common Areas Administrator Bob Pearsall said the signs use a standard template, regardless of whether improved parking exists. He added he would consider taping over the line referencing designated parking in areas without WIA-built parking,

President Brian Bush introduced Eagle Scout Bren Bowland during a recognition ceremony, praising volunteers as vital to the community.

Steve Cutler, director of common areas, presented Bowland with a plaque honoring his work.

Bowland, a senior at Lewis-Palmer High School, led six Boy Scouts in assembling and installing three benches in The Preserve. The project fulfilled improvement requirements tied to WIA’s acceptance of the land from WOSC LLC. Bowland raised funds for materials, including concrete and gravel, and provided food for his crew. He plans to attend Colorado State University after graduation.

Cutler commended Bowland’s leadership and communication skills. Bush closed the presentation by thanking Bowland and noting, “We need more leaders in the world.”

•

Eagle Scout project

Above: Ben Bowland led an Eagle Scout project assembling and installing three benches in The Preserve common area in South Woodmoor. He raised funds for materials and led a crew of six Boy Scouts to complete the work. At the July 23 Woodmoor Improvement Association meeting, President Brian Bush and Director of Common Areas Steve Cutler presented Bowland with a plaque and thanked him for his leadership. Pictured from left are Vice President Peter Bille, Cutler, Bowland, and Bush. Pictured from left: Cutler, Bowland, and Bush. Photo by Jackie Burhans.

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Parking near Common Areas

Above: A bench built as part of resident Ben Bowland’s Eagle Scout project provides a welcome resting place in The Preserve at South Woodmoor.

Photo by Jackie Burhans.

This reporter asked about signs stating vehicles must park in designated areas near WIA common areas. President Brian Bush clarified that WIA has not created formal designated parking areas, and only a few sites have WIA-built parking.

Bush said El Paso County recently passed an ordinance allowing parking on county roads, which includes all roads in Woodmoor.

He noted WIA cannot restrict roadside parking but prefers residents use their driveways. To support this, WIA raised the allowable number

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Highlights

Community Outreach: Director Brian DePaiva said the Northern El Paso County Coalition of Community Organizations (NEPCO) met on July 19 to discuss new regulations. Meeting materials are at www. nepco.org; Contact WIA for access information.

Treasurer: Bush, speaking for Treasurer Pete Giusti, reported increased June expenses for maintenance and chipping days.

Spending remains below the trend.

Covenants: Director Jennifer Davis reported 53 cases, including one unfounded complaint, and six violations for May and June.

A July hearing addressed three fireworks violations. Bush said any board members may report potential violations to Davis or Covenants Administrator Justin Gates.

Public Safety: Gleason said Woodmoor Public Safety (WPS) received 24 fireworks-related calls, many from outside Woodmoor.

WIA plans to raise the issue at NEPCO and encourage surrounding associations to adopt similar rules.

HOA: Administrator Denise Cagliaro said 114 properties have liens and noted that the county has increased lien filing fees to $43, which will be added to outstanding dues. Cagliaro is working with WIA’s accountant on the 2024 audit. She also noted that the newly installed windows have reduced noise.

Architectural Control: Director Ed Miller

OCN

Saturday, August 2, 2025

•

reported 68 project submissions in May, including 41 approved administratively and 12 by the architectural control committee.

Year to date submissions dropped 23% to 1888, with a 97.7% approval rate. In June, 14 projects were approved administratively, bringing the year-to-date total to 249 projects, down 19.2% with a 98.5% approval rate.

Forestry: Gates said that WIA completed 25 forestry and Firewise visits. He will submit a mitigation reimbursement packet to the

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state soon. The focus remains on removing ladder fuels within 30 feet of homes. The final chipping day for 2025 was held July 26-27.

Common Areas: Cutler summarized that windows installation, completion of the Eagle Scout project, and common area mowing and noxious weed mitigation. A new parking area will be added at North Park common area. Bush said board members had volunteered to paint the WPS garage, install fans and add a new bathroom sav-

Page 17 ing WIA substantial money. He encouraged residents to mow tall grass to reduce fire risk. ********** The WIA Board of Directors usually meets at 7 p.m. on the fourth Wednesday of each month in the Barn at 1691 Woodmoor Drive, Monument.

The next meeting will be on Aug. 27. See www. woodmoor.org to confirm meeting details.

Jackie Burhans can be reached at jackieburhans@ocn.me.

Letters to Our Community Our Community News welcomes letters to the editor on topics of general interest to readers in the Tri-Lakes area. Guidelines for letters are on page 23. 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 let-

ter, the letters are arranged in alphabetical order based on the last name of the author.

No letters were submitted this month.

Between the Covers at Covered Treasures Bookstore

Settle in for some Romance By the staff at Covered Treasures “The Very Essence of Romance is Uncertainty” — Oscar Wilde While it’s hot outside, grab a good romance and sit under the shade of a tree. Check out these new titles below to smile, laugh, cry, and feel the love.

Problematic Summer Romance

By Ali Hazelwood (Berkley Books) $20 Maya Killgore is twenty-three and still in the process of figuring out her life. Conor Harkness is thirty-eight, and Maya cannot stop thinking about him. She and Conor unexpectedly end up stuck together in a romantic Sicilian villa for over a week at her brother’s destination wedding. When things begin to erupt out of control, she decides that a summer fling might be just what she needs-even if it’s a problematic one.

One Golden Summer

By Carley Fortune (Berkley Books) $19 Charlie Florek was nineteen when Alice took his photo from afar. Reunited years later, the sun-slanted days and warm nights out on the lake with Charlie are a balm for Alice’s soul. But when she looks up and sees his piercing green gaze directly on her, she begins to worry for her heart. As a photographer, Alice sees people, but she’s never met someone who looks and sees her right back.

Say You’ll Remember Me

By Abby Jimenez (Forever) $28 There might be no such thing as a perfect guy, but Xavier Rush comes disastrously close. After one incredible and seemingly endless date, Samantha is forced to admit the truth, that her family is in crisis and any kind of relationship would be impossible for her. Samantha begs Xavier to forget her; To remember their night together as a perfect moment, as crushing as that may be. Only no amount of distance or time is nearly enough to forget there is something between them.

Done and Dusted: A Rebel Blue Ranch Novel

By Lyla Sage (Dial Press) $30 Clementine Ryder has accomplished everything on her to-do list. She left her small hometown of Meadowlark, Wyoming, went to college, and made a career for herself doing her favorite thing: riding horses. But after an accident makes it impossible for her to get back into the saddle, she has no choice but to return to the hometown she always wanted to escape. Luke Brooks is Meadowlark’s most notorious bad boy, bar owner, and bachelor. It’s been years since he’s seen her, but when she walks into his bar and back into his life, he can’t take his eyes off her.

Sounds Like Love

By Ashley Poston (Penguin Publishing Group) $19 Joni Lark is one of the most coveted songwriters in LA, but she can’t seem to write. There’s an emptiness inside her, and nothing seems to fill it. She returns to her hometown but when she gets there, nothing is how she left it. How can she think about writing her next song when

everything is changing without her? Until she hears it. A melody in her head, lyric-less and half-formed, and an alluring and addictive voice to go with it -- belonging, apparently, to a wry musician with hangups of his own.

Out of the Woods

By Hannah Bonam-Young (Dell) $15 High school sweethearts Sarah and Caleb Linwood have always been a sure thing. For the past seventeen years, they have had each other’s backs through all of life’s ups and downs.

Then a challenging event happens and causes a rift that unearths a decade of grievances and doubts. In a desperate attempt to fix what they fear is breaking, Sarah and Caleb make the spontaneous decision to get out of their comfort zones and join a grueling hiking trip intended to guide couples through rough patches. What follows is a life-affirming comedy of errors as two nature-averse people fight their way out of the woods in order to find their way back to their roots.

The Summer I Turned Pretty

By Jenny Han (Simon & Schuster Books for Young Readers) $20 Belly has spent her summers at the beach house with Conrad and Jeremiah, who had never noticed her noticing them. Every summer Belly hoped it would be different. This time, it is.

The summer that Belly turns pretty is the summer that changes everything -- for better and for worse.

Until next month, happy reading.

The staff at Covered Treasures can be reached at books@ocn.me.

August Library Events

Book clubs, Dungeons and Dragons, Palmer Lake Big Band concert

By Harriet Halbig The Monument Library features two book clubs sponsored by the Tri-Lakes Friends of PPLD. The First Friday Friends of PPLD Book Club will meet from 10:30 until noon on Friday, Aug. 1 to discuss Bad Blood: Secrets and Lies by John Carreyrou.

The Third Friday Friends of PPLD Book Club will meet from 10:30 to 12:30 on Aug. 15 to discuss The Frozen River by Ariel Lawhon.

All are welcome to attend these book clubs, and no registration is required.

The Teen Dungeons and Dragons Group will meet from 4 to 5:45 on Sat., Aug 16. New players and veterans alike are welcome to participate. Ages 13 to 18 are welcome. Registration is required as space is limited.

The Tween Dungeons and Dragons Group will meet from 4 to 5:30 on Saturday, Sept. 5.

All those ages 9 to 12 are welcome to attend and no experience is necessary. Registration is required. Go to PPLD.org, events and happenings by location, Open the calendar and click on the event to register.

For adults, the Socrates Café discussion group meets from 1 to 3 on Tuesdays. This group discusses many subjects including philosophy, religion, politics and other common threads among humanity.

Adults ages 18 and up are invited to make batik shopping totes from 2 to 3:30 on Thursday, Aug. 7. Using wax and fabric dyes, create a batik style shopping tote for everyday use.

Registration is required and all materials are provided.

Two Storytime events occur every week in Monument. Storytime for ages 3 to 7 with parent or caregiver is on Tuesdays from 10:30 to 11. Toddle Time is on Wednesdays from 9:30 to 10 and 10:30 to 11 for toddlers ages 1 to 2 and their parent or caregiver.

At the Palmer Lake Library Storytime is on Fridays, Aug. 8 and 22 from 10:30 to 11.

Enjoy the Palmer Lake Library Village Green Concert Series on Friday, Aug. 29 from 6 to 7 p.m. featuring Peak Big Band. The Village Green is located behind the Palmer Lake Library.

Please note that all Pikes Peak Library district facilities will be closed on Monday, Sept. 1 in observance of Labor Day. Harriet Halbig may be reached at harriethalbig@ocn.me.

Palmer Lake Historical Society, July 19

The power of print

Above: Vintage wooden box cameras were on display courtesy of Bob Smith, Vintage Cameras.

Photo by Diane Kokes

Above: From left: Dan Edwards, Author of the U.S. Forest Service Monument Nursery 1906-1965 and Jeannine Engel, president, Palmer Lake Historical Society. Photo by Diane Kokes

By Marlene Brown On July 19th, the Palmer Lake Historical Society (PLHS) presented Power of Print – in Chautauqua Style – with hands-on demonstrations of graphic arts from the past at the Palmer Lake Town Hall. Demonstrations included letterpress printing by the Letterpress Depot. Everyone, including children, were able to print their own artwork. The Letterpress Depot is a 501c3 museum in Englewood. They are a living museum of printing, typography, design, poetry and art. For more information go to www.letterpressdepot.com. **********

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PLHS continues to provide educational opportunities and promotes and preserves historical artifacts of the Palmer Divide area. They maintain special collections at the Lucretia Vaile Museum located in the basement of the Library at 66 Lower Glenway Street in Palmer Lake. See palmerdividehistory.

org/about-the-museum for hours and individual tours available. ********** On Aug. 23, PLHS will be joining the Western Museum of Mining & Industry, located at 225 North Gate Blvd, for Family Day at the Reynolds Ranch from 12-3 p.m.

The members of the PLHS Board

will be dressed in vintage clothing and giving tours of the Reynold Ranch House. See wmmi.org about this and future events. ********** PLHS meetings are usually held on the third Thursday of the month 7-8:30 p.m. (doors open at 6:30 p.m.) at the Palmer Lake Town

Vol. 25 No. 8

Hall, 28 Valley Crescent Street.

Free and open to the public. For more info regarding memberships and future programs go to palmerdividehistory.org/events.

Marlene Brown can be reached at marlenebrown@ocn.me.

High Altitude Nature and Gardens

Wild Horse Fire Brigade: successful fire mitigation since the beginning of… plants

By Janet Sellers

Wild horse wildfire mitigation

We may think that wildfires are an unavoidable phenomenon, but extensively published scientific studies show that the loss of large herbivores results in abnormally excessive grass and brush wildfire fuels. The same published scientific research shows that on every continent, when herbivore populations collapsed, catastrophic wildfires evolved.

Wilderness areas benefit from wild horses through the symbiotic grazing that naturally maintains wildfire fuels (grass and brush) at nominal levels, thereby reducing the frequency, size, and intensity of wildfires, as well as deadly toxic wildfire smoke (a greenhouse gas) that harms human health and accelerates climate change. A Yaleled study published in the journal Science in 2021 found a strong connection between the extinction of large grazing animals, including ancient horses, and a dramatic increase in fire activity in grasslands

globally.

Wild horses actually originated in North America and lived here for 50 million years. It is commonly thought that they left the area about 10,000 years ago, but the journal Science published a 2023 study including more than 80 co-authors, which matches up with the oral histories of multiple Indigenous groups that recount their peoples had horses before Europeans physically arrived; environmental DNA suggests their presence in arctic zones as late as 5,000 to 6,000 years before the present.

The Wild Horse Fire Brigade (www.wildhorsefirebrigade.org) is the name of a nonprofit and also that of a nature-based solution for the plight of American wild horses. On their website, they explain that, in essence, the plan is very simple: rewild and relocate wild horses away from areas of conflict and confinement and place them into wilderness areas where they benefit flora and fauna as they

Art Matters

We Can’t Unchop a Tree

By Janet Sellers Art is not passive documentation; it is a form of creative action. We can use art as a tool for ecological storytelling to foster not only beauty and upliftment, but also awareness and our future wellbeing.

Maya Lin, designer of the Vietnam Veterans Memorial, powerfully explores this through her project What Is Missing?, which awakens ecological awareness where we feel it most—our own cities and towns. She demonstrates, for example, how quickly beloved green spaces could be destroyed: Central Park, New York—in nine minutes; Hyde Park, London—in four minutes; Ueno Park, Tokyo—in two.

Her work asks a vital question: how quickly would we act to stop deforestation if it happened where we live?

Every minute, 90 acres of rainforest are destroyed. Lin’s multimedia and mixed media installations mourn this ecological loss while documenting vanishing species and habitats. Her work doesn’t simply inform—it compels.

It helps viewers confront ecological grief, spurs personal responsibility, and brings visibility to losses they may never have seen before.

With art as a bridge, people gain awareness—and with awareness, they gain agency.

Through dramatic visuals and fact-based storytelling, Lin’s project builds emotional connection.

As she explains: “What Is Missing is my fifth and last memorial. It focuses attention on species and places that have gone extinct or will most likely disappear within our lifetime if we do not act to protect them. The project exists formally as both permanent sculptures and temporary media exhibits; but it also exists virtually—as a website, whatismissing.net, which acts as a nexus for the entire project.”

Ecological art also invites participatory engagement. Mel Chin’s Revival Field (1991) used plants to extract heavy metals from con-

taminated soil, combining art and science in a living laboratory. This form of “art-as-remediation” transforms passive observation into a call to action, offering imaginative solutions rooted in ecological processes.

Contemporary eco-artists often draw from Indigenous knowledge systems that understand the Earth as animate and interconnected. As Robin Wall Kimmerer writes, “To be native to a place we must learn to speak its language” (Braiding Sweetgrass, 2013). Artists working in this tradition become translators—revealing hidden ecological relationships and restoring cultural memory.

Ecological art is not a retreat into aestheticism but a frontline practice of resilience. It awakens ethical consciousness, mobilizes communities, and asserts the rights of future generations and non-human kin. Far from passive, art acts. Through imaginative intervention and embodied storytelling, art becomes a living force in ecological movements. It offers new ways of seeing and belonging—reminding us that to tell the story of the Earth is not to stand apart from it, but to join its voice.

Here in our area, we have local celebrations and local awareness of our land and of art as living forces. On Aug 3 we’ll complete the Palmer Lake Chautauqua, and the monthly Art Hop is Aug. 22. Our Hummingbird Festival, on Aug. 22-23, centers on the four Colorado hummingbirds through art, talks, and fun. The Hummingbird Festival celebrates the land, pollinators and our community as contributors to our cultural future.

It is located at the historic Jackson Ranch, 17435 Rollercoaster Road, Monument.

Janet Sellers is an artist, writer, and speaker creating art for homes, institutions, and public spaces. Contact her at JanetSellers@ocn.me.

For more information on Cultural Creativity see www.culturaladaptations.com

reduce and maintain grass and brush wildfire fuels. America contains hundreds of millions of acres of wilderness (public and privately owned) where wild horses can live wild and free, beyond conflicts with livestock and other public land uses.

Wild Horse Fire Brigade has shown that it helps save native American wild horse species. They relate that they do this by “rewilding them from government holding facilities, and/or relocating them away from areas of contention with livestock production and humanely placing them as family units into carefully selected designated wilderness areas that are economically and ecologically appropriate.” There are approximately 353 million acres of privately owned forest lands at risk of catastrophic wildfire. There are also 110 million acres of publicly owned designated wilderness areas in America, primarily in the western United States.

Most of these wilderness areas

have abundant forage and water resources but are manifestly unsuited for livestock grazing due to existing laws, existing populations of apex predators, and excessive logistics and transport costs due to the difficult terrain and remoteness of such locations. In such wilderness areas, wild horses that are restored back into their evolutionary roles as keystone herbivores naturally protect forests, wildlife, watersheds, and wilderness ecosystems.

Fall gardening tips

August is the time to get ready for fall crops and flowers. Some only take 45–60 days from seed to the September and October harvest (greens, radishes, beans, and more). It’s also time to divide irises and other perennials to ensure healthy root growth for next year’s blooms.

Janet Sellers is an avid “lazy gardener,” letting Mother Nature lead the way for Earthwise gardens. Send your tips to JanetSellers@ocn.me.

Snapshots of Our Community Local landmark christened

Above: Palmer Lake residents gathered June 28 to celebrate the return of a beloved local landmark—a red British telephone box—at a tea party hosted

by Richard and Lindsay Willan. The Willans originally salvaged the booth from an antique warehouse and installed it outside their Tudor-style home, where it became a quirky navigation point for locals. A year ago, a neighbor lost control of his vehicle and crashed into the 2,000-pound cast-iron booth, destroying it.

The neighbor, Larry Bobo, survived. The Willans’ nephew in England sourced a replacement and shipped it stateside where it was unveiled to neighbors and community members including the Palmer Lake Fire Department. Guests enjoyed a traditional British tea potluck accompanied by the jazz stylings of Johnny Long (www.johnlongblues.com). From left are the Willans family members with Richard in the center in a tux and tails, flanked from the right with celebrity chef Gene Kalesti, Lindsay, and Mai Kalesti in yellow. Bobo is represented as a cardboard Superman inside the phone booth. Photo by Krista Bobo.

Routes Outfitter ribbon-cutting

Above: The Tri-Lakes Chamber of Commerce hosted a ribbon-cutting ceremony on July 1 for Routes Outfitter. Routes continues to have beer and whisky on tap for visitors, just as the previously-named Trails End Taproom provided, but the space is now mostly dedicated to outdoor gear and rentals and bike repair. In photo, Routes Outfitter owners Kristin and Jason Mezey. Photo by Chris Jeub.

Saturday, August 2, 2025

OCN

Page 19

Sertoma places flags for July 4th

Pancake Breakfast, July 4

Above: On July 2, the Gleneagle Sertoma performed its annual placement of flags for the Fourth of July along both sides of Gleneagle Drive and around the roundabout at Struthers Road. Sertoma members typically place over 300 flags to put drivers and walkers in the Fourth of July spirit. Photo by David Futey.

Above: On a sunny Fourth of July morning, Knights of Columbus (KofC) Council 11514 hosted its annual Fourth of July pancake breakfast fundraiser on the St. Peter Church walkway. Bob Lynn, Grand Knight for Council 11514 and coordinator of this year’s breakfast, said over 1,400 people were expected to attend. For $10, attendees ate scrambled eggs, pancakes, two types of sausages and beverages. Volunteers for the event included KofC members and their families, Monument Boy Scout Troop 17, Veterans of Foreign Wars members and the Monument Hill Kiwanis. Lynn said, “This is a terrific event that Monument puts on every year, and we look forward to doing the breakfast.

It’s our biggest fundraiser.” Proceeds support Tri Lakes Cares, Mater Filius at Saint Gabriel the Archangel Catholic Church, the Boy Scouts, Bakhita Mountain Home in Colorado Springs, and parish events. Photo by David Futey.

Palmer Lake Fun Run, July 4

The 43rd Annual Palmer Lake Fun Run kicked off Tri-Lakes area Fourth of July events. Race director Jenny Davey said a little ove 800 runners were expected.

The fundraiser supports teachers at Palmer Lake Elementary School (PLES).

Davey said, “the race proceeds go to grants for all teachers at the beginning of the year for classroom supplies and items like smart boards.” The race was supported by a number of area sponsors. The platinum sponsors were The Palmer Lake House, Tri-Lakes Paint Company, Bluestaq LLC., Freedom Express Car Wash and Black Hills Energy. Each sponsored a segment of the race. Davey was very appreciative of race volunteers from the Tri-Lakes

YMCA, teachers and students from PLES and other community members. The top male finisher was Aiden Le Roux who ran the course in 19 minutes, 27 and 69 100th seconds. The top female finisher was Elin Latta of San Antonio, TX whose time was 23 minutes, six and 54 100th seconds.

Above left: Members of the Tri-Lakes Runners, led by club owner Marc Johnson (left), were excited to race in the Palmer Lake Fun Run, Above: right: Runners make their way around Palmer Lake just after the start of the Palmer Lake Fun Run. Photos by David Futey.

Monument Hill Kiwanis 4th of July Children’s Parade

Left: The beginning of the Monument Hill Kiwanis Children’s Parade Above left: Gloria Beasley and Joy Beasley used balloons for a festive bike decoration as they readied to join in the Monument Hill Kiwanis Children’s Parade. Above right: Bike riders in the Monument Hill Kiwanis Children’s Parade. Photos by David Futey.

Monument Hill Kiwanis 4th of July Main Parade - Photos by David Futey

Monument Cub Scout Pack 117

Beginning of the Monument Hill Kiwanis Fourth of July Parade

Monument Boy Scout Troop 17

Girl Scout Troop 45230

Girl Scout Troop 41354

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Vol. 25 No. 8

Monument Hill Kiwanis 4th of July Main Parade (cont.) - Photos by David Futey

Rich Hicks, Monument Hill Kiwanian of the Year

Lewis Palmer School District 38

Tri-Lakes Women’s Club

Palmer Ridge High School Cheerleaders

Palmer Ridge High School Football Team

Lewis-Palmer High School Poms

Lewis-Palmer High School Football Team

Bill Kaelin, President, Monument Hill Kiwanis

PRHS Bearbotics

Madison FinlayWagner, El Paso County Fair Queen

Music at Limbach Park

Air Force Academy Cheerleaders

Monument Fire Department

Monument Street Fair

Above: At the conclusion of the Monument Hill Kiwanis Fourth of July Parade, spectators made their way to Limbach Park for a family-friendly beer garden and live music. The opening band was the El Paso County Outlaw Band. Photo

by David Futey.

Car Show at JCSL, July 12

Above: Before and after the parade, people enjoyed the Tri-Lakes Chamber of Commerce Street Fair on the Fourth of July. Local businesses, non-profit organizations, food vendors and a variety of arts and crafts booths were available for browsing. Photo by David Futey.

Bookstore celebrates 32 years Right: Covered Treasures Bookstore in Monument celebrated its 32nd birthday on July 17 and to mark the occasion, owner Tommie Plank committed 32% of her sales that day to the Heart of Monument Play Park. The playground for all ages and abilities is a project of the Monument Hill Kiwanis Club in partnership with the Town of Monument and Monument Community Presbyterian Church. The promotion raised more than $800 for the park and Plank rounded the donation up to an even $1,000.

Photo and caption bv Susan Davies.

Above: Jackson Creek Senior Living (JCSL) sponsored a “Diners, Desserts & Drives” event on July 12 with the Tri-Lakes Cruisers local car club.

Vintage hotrods and restored cars were displayed for residents of JCSL or anyone else who stopped by. Right: A 1967 Dodge Charger restored by Larry Sutton, a member of Tri-Lakes Cruisers. Photos by Steve Pate

Art Hop, July 25

Ewerts and Ishko hold booksignings Right: Covered Treasures Bookstore on Second Street in Monument hosted two authors for book signings on July 25. Both authors have written series for children. Nick Ishko, who lives in Monument, has written a series about Little John, The Little John Chronicles, that follows the character before he became part of Robin Hood’s band of merry men in Sherwood Forest. Gabriele Ewerts is also a children’s book author whose series of four books involve Sophie on her “portal” journeys. She also writes poetry and music. These children’s series are available at Covered Treasures. Photo by Steve Pate

Above: At Art Hop on July 25, at Jefferson Studios, artist Kristin Colvin shared her art in many media and talked with visitors about art and art making. Daryl Muncey, artist and Jefferson Studios gallery owner, introduced his newest mural. Muncy has created a village-like mini art campus with several areas to exhibit art. Photos by Janet Sellers.

OCN

Saturday, August 2, 2025

all ages welcome • 100% free to everyone

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Why advertise in OCN? • OCN is mailed FREE to every resident and business in the TriLakes area. We mail more than 22,700 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.

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• 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 $122,000!

• 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.

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Read, download, search, and listen to OCN content at our mobile-friendly website OCN.ME

Vol. 25 No. 8

Our Community Notices

By Janet Sellers Although we strive for accuracy in these listings, dates or times are often changed after publication. Please doublecheck the time and place of any event you wish to attend by calling the information number for that event. Please notify us if your event listing needs to be updated.

ing cultural experiences more accessible. Presenting your EBT card at participating museums and cultural attractions nationwide can unlock valuable cultural experiences beyond simply purchasing groceries. More Colorado food info: cdhs.colorado.gov/snap-produce-bonus.

Free and Reduced School Lunches Program

Be “bear smart”, do your part

Secure trash in a garage, shed or other secure structure.

Trash bins should only be outside of the secure structure on trash collection days from 5 a.m. to 7 p.m. The majority of homes will already meet this requirement with standard practices. For those who cannot store their trash in a secured structure, they will need to obtain a bear-resistant trash can. Certified bear-resistant waste containers can be provided by your trash collection company, or you can purchase bear resistant devices such as locks, ratchet straps, and more including bear resistant trash cans, that also deter other animals like racoons and dogs. Here is a link from Alaska Dept. of Wildlife video to attach a ratchet strap: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=EmnnwkL7T5Y .

Trash can ratchet locks are available for as little as under $20. “Bears are smart and they learn quickly that garbage is an abundant and reliable food source,” said Frank McGee, Area Wildlife Manager for Colorado Parks and Wildlife. “But a diet of garbage is terrible for bears and brings them into close proximity to people, which is dangerous for them and us. “By securing our trash, we deny bears easy meals and discourage them from coming into town.

We help keep them wild and alive in the forest, where they belong, not in someone’s garage or the path of a car — behaviors that can get them killed.”

When Thunder Roars, Go Indoors

Lightning can strike even out of a blue sky. Always keep in mind that if you can hear thunder, you are close enough to be struck by lightning. Seek shelter immediately in a sturdy building or, if a building is not available, a hard-topped vehicle with the windows rolled up. When indoors, refrain from using corded appliances or other equipment or facilities that put you in contact with electrical systems or plumbing. Stay inside until the storms have moved away AND thunder is no longer audible. This is very important, since lightning can and occasionally does strike well away from the thunderstorm itself. Stay alert with weather reports, and curtail your outdoor activities during that time, or ensure that you have constant access to a sturdy, fully enclosed shelter, such as a home or business. Tools for parents and teachers: https://www.weather.gov/safety/ lightning-teachers

Black Forest slash /mulch program

Firewise® mitigation, accepting tree branches, etc., dumping fee for all loads will be $10 payment cash or check made out to SAMCOM. Pine needles are not accepted.

Mulch is free to pick up. May through September; Pick up mulch for your garden or property - loader is available most Saturdays to speed up loading. 12375 Herring Rd. Info including fire mitigation, forests, pine beetles, etc., https://bfslash.org.

Colorado EBT benefits available

Get up to $60 a month back on EBT card with a dollar for dollar match when buying fruits and vegetables at SNAP-authorized retailers at Colorado grocery locations and farmers markets with the Colorado SNAP produce bonus. The main purpose of the EBT card is to provide food assistance through the Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP). However, the program has evolved to include benefits and discounts that enhance the overall well-being of low-income individuals and families, mak-

For the first semester of 2025-26 school year the Lewis Palmer school district will provide no-cost meals for all elementary students period however it is still important for households to provide their income information when requested period gathering this information allows Lewis Palmer School District 38 to receive the state and federal funding we qualify for in these funds go directly to schools to help cover the cost of meals and support after school activities and other nutritional programs for students. See ad on page 6.

El Paso County “Trailability” Program

Terrain Hoppers in the Nature Centers at Fountain Creek and Bear Creek areas are off-road mobility vehicles that allow members of the El Paso County community and visiting guests with disabilities to experience trails previously inaccessible to them. Hike 1-3 miles through foothills and wetlands habitats with your friends, family, and a Nature Center staff or volunteer, May through October. Reservations required, participation is free. https://communityservices.elpasoco.com/trailability/. For more information on the Trailability Program, please contact Theresa Odello at 719.520.6981 or by email at theresaodello@elpasoco. com.

Forest and gardening volunteers needed

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.

Parents Helping Parents

NAMI Parent and Caregiver Support group is a no-cost, peer support program for parents, caregivers, and other family who provide care and support for youth (ages 19 and younger) who are struggling with mental health issues including depression, anxiety, school or peer pressure, substances and more. Facilitated by trained volunteers who have been in your shoes. Meeting is 2nd Monday of each month from 7:00-8:30 pm via zoom. Register online at namicoloradosprings.org. For more information, call the office at (719) 473-8477 or email info@namicos.org.

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.

munity-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 drop-off hours are Mon.-Thu., 9 am-4 pm. For more information about Tri-Lakes Cares or how you can help, contact Tri-Lakes Cares at 719-481-4864 or info@tri-lakescares.org.

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

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.

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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 self-sufficiency programs. The com-

Can you volunteer today?

Links to local organizations with an immediate need for volunteers are listed on the county’s website, www.elpasocountyhealth.org/volunteering-anddonations, for groups like Care and Share, Crossfire Ministries, blood donations, Early Connections (volunteer from home opportunity), foster an animal, Medical Reserve Corps of El Paso County, Salvation Army, Silver Key, and United Way (ongoing opportunities).

The Colorado State University Extension office in El Paso County has several opportunities for individuals interested in volunteering. https://elpaso.extension.colostate.edu/volunteer-opportunities/ El Paso County volunteer-based and nonprofit organizations rely on the hard work of individuals like you. Find out how you can play a part by becoming a volunteer in El Paso County. Get involved in El Paso County volunteering non-profits and organizations! https://www.americantowns.com/el-paso-countyco/volunteer-organizations/.

The El Paso County Sheriff’s Office Volunteer Program is composed of a collective citizens group with a true and common desire to partner with the El Paso County Sheriff’s Office by volunteering their services while learning more about the internal workings of the law enforcement community. https://www. epcsheriffsoffice.com/volunteer-program-0.

The El Paso County Volunteer Program is a wonderful opportunity for citizens to learn about the various functions of county government as well as give back to the community. The County’s numerous boards and commissions need your experience, talents and time. https://bocc.elpasoco.com/volunteer.

Our Community Calendar

By Janet Sellers Although we strive for accuracy in these listings, dates or times are often changed after publication. Please double-check the time and place of any event you wish to attend by calling the info number for that event. Please contact calendar@ocn.me with changes and additions.

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G O V E R N M E N TA L B O D I E S

Academy Water and Sanitation District board meeting, Wed., Aug. 20, 6 pm. Usually meets third Wed. Public can join the Skype meeting: Check the website for a link: monthly board meeting is on Skype at this link https://join.skype.com/OfBkDyhucmep, info: Info: Steve Callicott (President) 719-325-9039, http://www.academywsdco.gov/ Black Forest Fire/Rescue Protection District board meeting in person or via Zoom. Wed., Aug. 20, 7 pm. Usually meets third Wed. Visit http://www.bffire.org for updates and the agenda listing the Zoom joining codes or contact 719-494-4300.

Donala Water & Sanitation District board meeting, Thu., Aug. 21, 1:30 pm, 15850 Holbein Dr. In 2023, meets third Thu., Check the website for the access code for the electronic meeting. Info: 719-488-3603, www.donalawater.org.

El Paso County 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., Aug. 7 & 21; 9 am. Regional Development Center, 2880 International Circle, Colo. Springs. Meetings are live-streamed on the El Paso County News & Information Channel at www.elpasoco.com/news-information-channel. Normally meets first & third Thu. (as required). Info: 719-520-6300, https://planningdevelopment.elpasoco. com/planning-community-development/2025-hearingsschedule/ El Paso County Regional Loop Water Authority meeting, Thu., Aug. 21, 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 pm, via teleconference only. For dial in access and updates, visit www. forestlakesmetrodistrict.com.

Lewis-Palmer School District 38 board meeting, Mon., Aug. 18, 66 N Jefferson St, Monument. Meets in the school year, 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), summer recess, next mtg. Sep. 9. Meets six times a year, second Tue, The Learning Center, 146 N.

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Jefferson St. Info: tmckee@lewispalmer.org.

Monument Academy School Board meeting, Thu. Aug. 14, 6:30 pm, East Campus gym, 4303 Pinehurst Circle. Usually meets the second Thu. Info: 719-431-8001, www.monumentacademy.net/school-board.

Monument Fire District board meeting, in person or via Microsoft Teams. Wed., Aug. 27, 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 719488-0911.

Monument Planning Commission meeting, Wed., Aug 13, 6 pm, Town Hall Board Room, 645 Beacon Lite Rd., Monument. Usually meets the second Wed. To see the options for remote public participation in each meeting, visit www.townofmonument.org/263/Planning-Commission-Board-of-Adjustment. Info: 719-884-8028. www. townofmonument.org.

Monument Sanitation District board meeting, Wed., Aug. 20, 9 am, 130 Second St. Zoom meeting. Find joining instructions on the website. Meets third Wed. Info: 719-481-4886, https://www.monumentsanitationdistrict. org/ Monument Town Council meeting, Mon., Aug. 4, 18, 6:30 pm, Town Hall Board Room, 645 Beacon Lite Rd., Monument. Normally meets first and third Mon. Info: 719-884-801, www.townofmonument.org/260/Board-ofTrustees for remote attendance links.

Palmer Lake Board of Adjustments meeting, Tue., Aug. 5, 5 pm, 28 Valley Crescent St., Palmer Lake. Normally meets first Tue., as needed.

Palmer Lake Board of Trustees meeting, Thu., Aug. 14 & 28, 6 pm, Palmer Lake Town Hall, 28 Valley Crescent. Usually meets second and fourth Thu. Info: 719481-2953. www.townofpalmerlake.com.

Palmer Lake Sanitation District board meeting, Wed., Aug. 13, 9 am, call-in only: 650-479-3208, Access Code 76439078, 120 Middle Glenway. Meets second Wed. Info: 719-481-2732. www.plsd.org.

Palmer Lake Town Planning Commission meeting, Wed., Aug. 20, 6 pm, Palmer Lake Town Hall, 28 Valley Crescent. Meets third Wed. Info: 719-481-2953, www. townofpalmerlake.com.

Tri-Lakes Wastewater Facility Joint Use Committee meeting, Tue., Aug. 12, 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., Aug. 21, 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 719-4886868.

Village Center Metropolitan District Board Meeting, Tue., Aug. 19, 4 pm, Serranos Coffee Shop, Normally meets on the third Tuesday of each month. If the meeting time/location changes, it will be updated on the District’s website: https://wsdistricts.co/village-center-metropolitan-district/ Woodmoor Improvement Association Board Meeting, Wed., Aug. 27, 7 pm, Woodmoor Barn, 1691 Woodmoor Dr. Usually meets fourth Wed. Info: 719-4882693, www.woodmoor.org.

Woodmoor Water & Sanitation District board

meeting, Mon., Aug. 11, 1 pm, 1845 Woodmoor Dr., Monument. Normally meets second Mon. Info: 719-4882525, www.woodmoorwater.com.

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AARP Black Forest #1100, second Wed., noon. In-person Black Forest Lutheran Church, 12455 Black Forest Rd. All ages welcome. Info: www.aarpchapter1100blackforest. weekly.com.

AARP Local Senior Social, fourth Wed. In-person Black Forest Lutheran Church, 12455 Black Forest Rd. Info: www.aarpchapter1100blackforest.weekly.com.

A.A. Big Book Study, every Thu., 7 pm, Family of Christ Lutheran Church, 675 W. Baptist Rd. Call 425-436-6200, access code 575176#.

Alcoholics Anonymous, every Tue. & Thu., 7:30 pm 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 pm 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 a.m. Zoom Meeting ID: 845 0971 9868, Password 349309 Al-Anon meeting: Letting Go, every Thu., 9-10:15 am at Ascent Church, 1750 Deer Creek Rd., Monument. For additional information go to www.al-anon-co.org.

Al-anon Meeting: Monument, every Thu., 7-8 pm, Ascent Church, 1750 Deer Creek Rd., Monument. Info: 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 welcome. 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.

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.

Checkered table talks, community interest monthly speaker series. Aug, 19, $10, doors open 5 pm program 5:30-6:30 pm. Speaker Gabe Andrews, Nautilus Data Technologies: What powers the cloud and why the planet cares.

Bring your own picnic, (prize for best picnic). Info: call 719-440-8969. See ad on page 4.

Children’s Literacy Center, every Mon. & Wed., 5:30-6:30 pm. Provides free one-on-one literacy tutoring

OCN

Saturday, August 2, 2025

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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 Monument Preserve (FOMP) Trail Repair Work Days. 2nd Thu. Apr. & Oct. 5–7 pm; MaySep. 6-8 pm. Details: www.fomp.org. Water, gloves, work attire required.

Friends of Fox Run Park, Zoom meeting, Join the growing group volunteering at the park: forest safety, trails, trees, education, special events, more; stay tuned!

Meets fourth Thu., 7 pm, email friendsoffoxrunpark@ gmail.com, they will email you the link the day of the meeting. Info: friendsoffoxrunpark@gmail.com.

Fuel Church Sunday Service, every Sun., 10:45 am, Mountain Community Mennonite Church, 643 Hwy 105, Palmer Lake. Nursery and kids’ service. Streaming service at www.fuelchurch.org at 11 am Non-denominational, spirit-filled. Need prayer? Email us at info@fuel.org.

Gleneagle Sertoma, first and third Wed., 11:45 am to 1 pm. Gleneagle Sertoma is the longest continuously active civic service organization in northern El Paso County. Our regular program presenters address local topics of interest to include local developments, community planning and projects, as well as opportunities to serve your community.

Contact Harvey LeCato for meeting location and club information at mbca@comcast.net or 719-331-1212.

Gleneagle Women’s Club, membership luncheon, third Fri., (Sep.-June), various venues, 12 activity groups, i.e., hiking, bridge, etc. Guests welcome. For information contact Marcie at 520-205-0518.

Lions Club Bingo, every Sat. (except the first Sat.), 8:30 am-1 pm and first Mon., 5:30-10 pm Tri-Lakes Lions Club’s portion of the proceeds benefit those in need in the TriLakes community. Updated info and location: Jim Naylor, 719-481-8741 or www.trilakeslionsclub.org.

Monument Hill Kiwanis Club meeting, every Sat., 8 am. www.MHKiwanis.org, MonumentHillKiwanis@gmail. com for details, guests are welcome. Service leadership clubs, Key clubs, Builders Club, and K-kids at D38 schools.

Memberships are open to the public. Info: RF Smith, 719210-4987, www.MHKiwanis.org. See ad on page 8.

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., 6:307:30 pm, The Ascent Church, 1750 Deer Creek Rd. This faith-based support group is for those seeking freedom from all hurts, habits, and hang-ups. Daycare for children under age 11. Info: www.liferecoverygroups.com/meetings/life-recovery-group-3/ Monumental Impact Open House NEW ADDRESS: first Sat., 3-5 pm, 866 Hwy 105, Monument. Interested in technology, engineering and entrepreneurship either professionally or for fun? Interested in competitive robotics for adults and high school students? Come connect with us and ask about programs. Info: www.monumentalimpact. org, See ad on page 8.

National Alliance on Mental Illness (NAMI): Free virtual support group NAMI Colorado Springs for parents and caregivers of adolescents with mental health issues; facilitated by trained facilitator peers. Participant info: www.namicoloradosprings.org, 719-473-8477.

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), usually meets bi-monthly (Jan., Mar, May, July, Sep., Nov.) the 2nd Sat., Woodmoor Barn, 1691 Woodmoor Dr. Members of local HOAs are welcome. 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, Guests welcome; second Sat. for art programs, social gathering and business meeting.

300 Hwy 105, NE corner of I-25 and 105. 9:30 am. Info: 719-460-4179, www.palmerlakeartgroup.co.

Palmer Lake Art Group Open Studio: first Wed. 12–3 pm. Currently a test period to assess the location for light, access, etc., so it is currently for members, and is at Monument Library.

Palmer Lake Historical Society, Usually meets the third Thu., 7-8 pm (doors open at 6:30), Palmer Lake Townhall, 42 Valley Crescent. Guest speakers, free to the public. Info: Kokesdm@yahoo.com, or visit palmerdividehistory.org.

Pikes Peak Genealogical Society Zoom meeting, Wed., Aug. 15,. 6:30pm: Zoom hangout. 7 pm, meeting starts. Monthly special speaker programs. For zoom meeting details contact: PPGS President@PPGS.org.

Relentless Recovery, recovery gathering, 2nd and 4th Mon., 7:30-8:30 pm, hybrid zoom and in person at Lake & Lantern Cafe, 84 CO-105 #2, Palmer Lake. “All humans welcome.”

Ridgeview Baptist Church, every Sun., 10:30 am, temporarily meeting at 9130 Explorer Dr., Colorado Springs, 80920. Info: 719-357-6515 or www.ridgeviewcolorado.org. See ad on page 6.

Senior Bingo, third Wed. Silver Key Senior Services, Space is limited to 16. participants. RSVP & info: info@ silverkey.org Senior Book Club, second Fri., 11 am-noon, Silver Key Senior Services, all are welcome. Coffee & snacks. RSVP & info: info@silverkey.org Speed Puzzle Event, first Tue., second Mon., and third Mon. Trinity Lutheran Church location, Two hours complete a 500-piece puzzle with a partner. Register at www.mindquestpuzzles.com. See ad on page 2.

Technology, Techniques and Trends, Monthly discussion groups: Free. Open to the public. 3D Printers, CNCs, Lasers (1st Tue., 5 pm); AI, Cybersecurity, Technology (1st Thu., 5 pm); Competitions in Robotics and Technology (1st Sat., 3 pm). Hosted by Monumental Impact.

Tri-Lakes United Methodist Church services 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.

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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, first and third Thu., 6 pm-8 pm. First Thursday via zoom and third Thursday in person at the Chamber of Commerce, 166 2nd St., Monument. Details: www.tlrotary.com, Trilakesdynamicrotary@gmail.com. Guests welcome. We are a service club serving Tri-Lakes. Memberships open to the public.

Info: www.tlrotary.com.

Tri-Lakes Parkinson’s Disease Support Group, third Sat., 10 am-noon, Monument Community Presbyterian Church, 238 Third St., Monument. Info: Syble Krafft, 719-488-2669; Barry (group president), 719-351-9485. If you need any help, please call Syble or Barry.

Tri-Lakes Women’s Club (TLWC) monthly meeting, third Fri., 11:30 am. Eisenhower Golf Club, USAFA. To become a member, or learn about the club, visit our website at www.tlwc.net Contact Info: Tri-Lakes Women’s Club membership@tlwc.net.

Women’s A. A. Step Study, every Mon., 6:30 pm, meeting remotely, check for details. Family of Christ Lutheran Church, 675 Baptist Rd. Park in the west lot. Info: 866-641-9190. Al-Anon Zoom Meeting, Just for Today Online, every Mon., 9:00 – 10:00 am Zoom Meeting ID: 889 4142 7446, Password 349309.

Vanguard Tri Lakes worship services, every Sun., 10 am, Woodmoor Barn.

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 pm 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 would be eligible. For more information please contact Kathy Carlson, 719-488-1902, carlsonmkc@gmail.com or Linda Lyons, 303-579-8114, lindalyons7829@gmail.com.

SPECIAL EVENTS

VOLUNTEER TODAY! Our Community News: volunteer mailing days, Thu., July 31 & Sep. 4, approx.

7-8:30 am. We are all volunteers at OCN and need YOUR help, even for an hour or two, getting the papers ready to mail. Contact AllenAlchian@ocn.me or (719) 488-3455.

Town of Monument Concerts in the Park, every Wed., 6-8 pm. June 4 -Aug. 27. Limbach Park.

Jazz in the park, every Wed. July 9-Sep. 3. 6-8 pm.

Bancroft Park 2408 West Colorado Ave., Old Colorado City.

PikesPeakjazz.org.

Monument Hill Farmers Market, every Sat. , 8-2 pm.

D38 Lewis Palmer admin building, 66 Jefferson Street, Monument. See ad on page 5.

Palmer Lake Farmers Market, every Sun., 10 am-2 pm, Produce lemonade pickles music and more! Now taking new vendors, info: calvertsminimarket.com. See ad on page 2.

Fire Risk Mitigation for wildlands, Black Forest, strategies presentation Aug. 8, 5-630pm at the Fox Run Park pavilion 1. Learn about defensible space, home hardening, evacuation readiness, and local resources to help protect your home and neighborhood. Info: 719-520-6977, Email: ryandorough@elpasoco.com.

Lang investment services annual pig roast, Fri., Aug. 8. See ad on page 21.

King Deer community garage sale, Fri.- Sun., Aug. 8-10, Hwy 105 and Rollercoaster Rd. www.kingsdeer.org, See ad on page 4.

Funky Little Theater Co. presents Tuesdays with Morrie, Fri. & Sat., Aug. 8-23, matinees at 1 pm, evening performances at 7 pm. tickets and information at www. funkylittletheater.org. See ad on page 21.

Space Foundation discovery center, 3D printing workshop, Sat., Aug. 9. See ad on page 12.

Tri-Lakes Cruisers 22nd Annual Benefit Car Show, Sun., Aug. 17, 9–2 pm, historic 2nd Street, Downtown Monument. Vendors, food trucks and 200+ cars.

General Public free, registration to be in the show: www. trilakescruisers.com/2025-car-show-registration.html.

Hummingbird Festival, Fro.-Sat., Aug. 22-23, 10 am-3 pm. A fun, family friendly event celebrating the Colorado hummingbirds in the Tri-Lakes area. Hummingbird sightings, baby alpacas, children’s games, hummingbird themed talks, vendors, and more. Some vendor spots still open, contact marlene.fourgates@gmail.com. 17435 Roller Coaster road, Monument, on the historic Jackson Ranch.

See ad on page 3.

Benet Hill Monastery, Labyrinth Retreat: learn about this ancient meditative practice Aug. 22-24, 3190 Benet Lane, Colorado Springs. See ad on page 3.

Covered Treasures Bookstore, Thu., Aug. 22, 5-8 pm, authors Russell Ford (The Other Side of the Badge) and Matt Gallagher (Daybreak). 105 Second Street, Monument.

Western Museum of Mining and Industry, Super Saturday, Aug. 23, 225 Northgate Blvd, Colorado Springs, see ad on page 12.

Art Hop, Fri., Aug. 28, 5-8 pm, downtown Monument, fourth Fri., May through Sep. See ad on page 2.

Affordable Flooring Connection, special offers. See ad on page 2.

Eagle Wine & Spirits, special offers. See ad on page 3.

Mesa Health and Aesthetics, special offers. See ad on page 2.

Content

Articles in Our Community News focus on the deliberations of Tri-Lakes area governmental bodies such as the Monument Board of Trustees, Palmer Lake Town Council, and many of the local water, sanitation, fire, and school district boards.

Unlike papers that try to figure out what the “story” is and then get quotes on each side to presumably lead the reader to conclude what the “truth” is, OCN’s role is to report in detail on public meetings of local governmental entities. We report what was talked about and what was decided supplemented with board packet information. By reading OCN, you can find out what you might have learned if you had attended those public meetings.

In this context, “truth” is that the articles accurately represent what transpired at the meetings.

The content of ads, inserts, and letters to the editor in OCN is solely the responsibility of the advertisers and authors who place those ads, inserts, and letters. The appearance of an ad, insert, or letter in OCN does not imply endorsement of the ad, insert, or letter’s content or purpose. While OCN does not knowingly run false ads, inserts, or letters, we do not research the accuracy of that content.

Readers are encouraged to do their own research prior to committing to use the products or services offered or accept the conclusions of letters to the editor. Readers with concerns about the content of an ad, insert, or letter should take up those concerns with the advertiser or author.

Contact John Heiser, Publisher, at johnheiser@ ocn.me or (719) 488-3455 with any questions.

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Monument Cleaners, special offers. See ad on page 5.

Monumental Med Spa, special offers. See ad on page 7.

Noel Relief Centers, special offers. See ad on page 7.

Paul’s asphalt service, special offers, see ad on page 6.

Pawlished Pups, special offers, 864 CO Hwy 105, Palmer Lake, see ad on page 4.

PeakView Windows, special offers. See ad on page 24.

Ravissante Salon, special offers, see ad on page 24.

Routes outfitter, special offers. See ad on page 18.

Sootbusters chimney sweeps, special offers. See ad on page 6.

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.

YMCA fall youth sports registration begins Aug. 3.

See ad on page 6.

4th Annual Gleneagle Spirit 5k Run/Walk and Kid’s Run, Sat., Sep. 6, 8 am-noon, Proceeds go to the Mt. Carmel Veterans Service Center, go to www,gleneaglespiritrun.com for details.

Palmer Lake Wine Festival, Sat., Sep. 13, 12-5pm, Palmer Lake Recreation Area and Gazebo, Tickets: www. plwf2025.com. Portion of proceeds benefit Tri-Lakes Cares.

Maker’s Market, Oct. 11-12, indoors at Lewis Palmer High School, 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 A+ rated by the BBB and great on-line reviews!

Hot mix asphalt paving • 5 types of asphalt sealcoating Hot rubber crack sealant/asphalt patch • Recycled asphalt paving

Paul Williams, Jr.

719-453-4477 Monument Asphaltserviceonline.com Letters to Our Community

Our Community News welcomes letters to the editor on topics of general interest to readers in the Tri-Lakes area. We do not knowingly print letters that are substantially the same as letters that have been submitted to other publications. To ensure that OCN contains a variety of viewpoints, each letter writer is limited to a maximum of one (1) letter per issue and six (6) letters within a twelve (12)month period. To submit a letter, please: • Email your letter, preferably as an attached Microsoft Word document, to editor@ocn.me or mail a copy to Our Community News, P.O. Box 1742, Monument, CO 80132-1742.

• Identify your submission as a letter to the editor and confirm that it has not been submitted to any other publication.

• Include a suggested headline or title that summarizes the topic you are addressing.

• Limit your letter to no more than 300 words including your suggested headline and closing.

• Include your full name, home address, phone numbers, and email address, if you have one.

Only your name will be published.

• Submit your letter so we receive it no later than midnight, Friday, two weeks prior to the publication date.

If you have not received an acknowledgement two days after your email submission or one week after you mailed your letter, please contact John Heiser, Publisher, at (719) 488-3455 or editor@ ocn.me. At OCN’s sole discretion, we may ask you for clarification of your statements. Include references, such as website links, in your letter for any facts and figures you cite. OCN does not guarantee every letter will appear in print or on-line and does not guarantee a publication date. The number of letters printed on a particular topic or in a particular issue may be limited. Letters containing personal attacks or endorsements for or complaints about individually-named commercial products or services will not be published.

Look for our next issue

Saturday, Sep. 6

Ad space reservations due: Fri., Aug. 15 Finished ad artwork due: Fri., Aug. 22 Letters to the editor due: Fri., Aug. 22 Calendar items due: Fri., Aug. 29 Visit our website to read, download, and search all the back issues at WWW.OCN.ME

OCN is published on the first Saturday of each month by Colorado Cooperative Association Our Community News, Inc. John Heiser, President (719) 488-3455—FAX: (828) 649-2720 Advertising: ads@ocn.me Back issues: www.ocn.me Editorial content: editor@ocn.me Event information: calendar@ocn.me © Copyright 2001-2025 Our Community News, Inc. P.O. Box 1742 Monument, Colorado 80132-1742 All rights reserved.

Page 24

Read, download, search, and listen to OCN content at our mobile-friendly website OCN.ME

Vol. 25 No. 8

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