Volunteers reporting on community issues in Monument, Palmer Lake, and the surrounding Tri-Lakes area
Issue #294 — Volume 25 Number 9 — Saturday, September 6, 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:
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 & Oct. 2, approx. 7-8:30 am. Become an OCN reporter! Help us report 'What was discussed and what was decided.' Call 719-488-3455.
• 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. See ad on page 2.
• Palmer Lake Special Election, Tue., Sep. 9, decides recall of two trustees and a ballot measure requiring voter approval of annexations.
• Checkered table talks, monthly speaker series. Thu., Sep. 11, doors open 5 pm, program 5:30-6:30 pm,
• Palmer Lake Wine Festival, Sat., Sep. 13, 12-5 pm
• Ride for Tim memorial honor ride, Sat., Sep. 13, 1 pm
• Empty Bowls 2025, Silent Auction Basket donation deadline Mon., Sep. 15. See ad on page 10.
• Palmer Lake Historical Society, Thu., Sep. 18, 7-8 pm (doors open at 6:30).
• Speed puzzle events, Mon. Sep. 8 & 15. See ad on page 2.
• Covered Treasures Bookstore, Sat, Sep. 20, 1-3 pm, Lisa Hatfield signs To Ride a Storm Surge. Fri, Sep. 26, 5-8pm. Roberta Anderson signs A.I for Beginners in the Digital Age. Marj Charlier signs Rebel Nun, Cardlemaker’s Woman, Hacienda, Romancing the Dog (3 Novellas).
• Last 2025 Art Hop, Fri., Sep. 26, 5-8 pm, See ad on page 2.
• Blues on the Mesa, Sat., Sep. 27 11-6:30 pm. See ad on page 4.
• Empty Bowls 2025 Event , Wed., Oct. 1. See ad on page 10.
• WMMI, Miners' Pumpkin Patch every Sat. in Oct. See ad on page 12.
• Benet Hill Monastery, Blessing of the Animals, Sat., Oct. 4, 3 pm. Melanie DeMore concert, Sun., Oct. 5, 11:30 am. See ad on page 3.
• Tri-Lakes Women's Club, Fri., Oct. 10, Michael Weinfeld and John Howe present highlights of their book Shootouts, Killings, and War Heroes: The History Hidden in Monument Cemetery.
• Maker’s Market , Sat.-Sun., Oct. 11-12. See ad on page 8.
• Restyle Your Fur, Mon.-Tue., Oct. 20-21, 10 am-5 pm. See ad on page 12.
In this issue
Palmer Lake News 1-7
D38 News 7-10
Monument News 10-12
Fire District News 12, 14
Water & San District News 14-16
County & HOA News 16-17
Letters 17-18
Columns 18-20
Snapshots 20-21
Notices and Calendar 22-23
OCN Info 1, 23, 24
Lang Investment Services Annual Pig Roast, Aug. 8
Above: Maybe it was the free food or maybe it was the fact that it didn’t rain for a change, but Monument investment banker Matt Lang’s annual pig roast was attended by more than 500 people, the biggest crowd ever. Lang says it certainly was the event’s longest line, which stretched from the parking lot in front of his office building at 236 N. Washington St. nearly to Second Street. The event has been held annually, rain or shine, since 1999, and over the years it’s often been more rain than shine. Lang joked that it didn’t rain this year because he invested in umbrellas with the Lang logo just in case. The crowd was treated to pulled pork, chicken, baked beans, lemonade, and beer—all for free. Lolley’s also served free ice cream. In lower left photo from left are Lilly Lundy, Sarah Brown, Stuart Denham, Jayce Duffy, and Michael Fulton. Photos by Michael Weinfeld.
Palmer Lake Planning Commission, Aug. 20
Buc-ee’s annexation vote postponed
By
James Howald and Jackie Burhans
The Palmer Lake Planning Commission (PLPC) met Aug. 20 to hold a public hearing on the proposed Bucee’s annexation. The public hearing ran for six hours and was attended by more than 100 people. Three items were on the agenda: annexation, zoning in the form of a Planned Development (PD), and a sketch plan. Charlie Ihlenfeld, the Planning Commission chair, said the meeting would begin with comments from town staff, then the applicant would present, the public would comment, the commission would discuss the application, and, finally, the commission could act on the three items if they chose to do so.
Staff comments
Palmer Lake Town Attorney Scot Krob commented on the legality of a recording that has been circulating on social media of Ihlenfeld commenting favorably on the Buc-ee’s annexation. Krob said annexation was a legislative matter, and Ihlenfeld was entitled to comment on legislative matters. Zoning and the sketch plan were quasijudicial matters, Krob said, and the legal precedents regarding those issues were not settled.
Krob explained that PDs have increased flexibility, and it is expected that in the case of a PD, topics such as setbacks, building heights and lighting are matters that can be negotiated.
Applicant presentation Nina Ruiz and Craig Dossey, of Vertex
Consulting, were the main presenters of Buc-ee’s application for annexation. Consultants from Kimley Horn, Ecosystem Services, and law firm Mulliken Weiner Berg & Joliet also spoke on civil engineering, traffic flow, environmental issues such as wildlife preservation, and the annexation agreement contract.
Ruiz pointed out that the property under consideration for annexation is in unincorporated El Paso County and is currently zoned Commercial (C1) and Commercial Community (CC). Gas stations and convenience stores are permitted uses in these zoning categories.
Dossey discussed how the proposed annexation related to the county master plan. That plan designates the property as transitional and identifies it as a potential area for annexation, he said.
John Desvardis, a restoration ecologist with Ecosystems Services, said the site, which is surrounded by I-25, County Line Road, and residential housing, was “already damaged and had more economic and cultural value than ecological value.” The Colorado Department of Transportation (CDOT) says I-25 is the most influential infrastructure in the area. There are no wildlife migration paths on the property, which had been run as a ranch previously, Desvardis said.
Scott Radcliff, of Buc-ee’s, presented the site plan for the travel cen-
ter. The center is not a truck stop and will use traffic circles and signals to control access, he said. He explained that the underground fuel tanks would be continuously monitored.
Stan Beard, director of real estate for Buc-ee’s, presented the plans for lighting and signs. He said the travel center would be as night-sky friendly as possible, but it was not possible to follow a strict night-sky ordinance. He said there would be no light trespass beyond the property lines, and the site would have 3,000 Kelvin lights that are dark sky compliant. He explained Buc-ee’s wants its parking areas to be lighted so they are safe and comfortable.
Beard requested a 100-foot sign for the travel center, which exceeds Palmer Lake’s maximum height for signs. He said sign height was important to Buc-ee’s brand but was negotiable.
Dossey said the sketch plan conformed to the town’s master plan. He argued the travel center would maintain the small-town look and feel of Palmer Lake because it was 1.5 miles from the town. The master plan states non-residential development is needed to provide tax base and services, and it encourages strategic annexations, Dossey said. He argued the travel center will enhance tax revenue and will showcase locally sourced merchandise.
Palmer Lake Board of Trustees, Aug. 6, 14, 28 Board vacancy filled; land use code updated; annexation decision postponed
By James Howald and Jackie Burhans
The Palmer Lake Board of Trustees (PLBOT) met three times in August.
At a workshop on Aug. 6, the board interviewed the final candidate for a seat on the board that was made vacant when Dennis Stern was appointed mayor. At the special meeting following the workshop, the board voted to fill the vacancy.
At the first regular meeting on Aug. 14, the board held a public hearing on an ordinance to update the sections of its municipal code that deal with zoning and land use. At the same meeting, the board heard a presentation regarding ways to develop the lodge at the Elephant Rock property and public comments. The meeting ended with an executive session.
At the second regular meeting on Aug. 28, the board scheduled a public
hearing on the Buc-ee’s annexation, but that hearing was continued to Oct. 2 because the Planning Commission had not completed its review of the zoning issues brought up by the proposed annexation. See the Planning Commission article above. The board heard reports from town staff, board members, and public comments. The meeting included an executive session.
Final candidate interview
At previous meetings, the board interviewed Mike Boyett, Alex Farr, Beth Harris, and John Marble for the vacant seat on PLBOT. Mike Beeson, who currently serves on the Palmer Lake Planning Commission, was the last to be interviewed for the seat.
In his opening statement at the workshop, Beeson said he had lived
in Colorado off and on since 1963. He served in several roles in the Air Force, including cryptologist and squadron commander. He earned an undergraduate degree in business, a master’s degree in public administration and a second master’s degree in national security. After retiring from the Air Force, he served as the chief of Human Resources at the Air Force Academy. He emphasized his leadership, budgeting, and management skills.
Trustees Shana Ball, Tim Caves, Kevin Dreher, Amy Hutson, and Atis Jurka asked Beeson the same questions they had previously asked the other candidates, including how Beeson would balance the town’s master plan against smart development; how
a franchise, he said. Beeson said there were many places to buy gasoline already. Beeson asked if a bike lane could be added to the plan, but Ruiz could not commit to adding one. Commissioner Bill Fisher said there needs to be a bridge for cyclists to use County Line Road to get to the Greenland Open Space.
Beeson asked if the travel center would encroach on open space. Sarah Frear, a lawyer with Mulliken Weiner Berg & Jolivet, representing Buc-ee’s, said that question came up early in the process, and El Paso County, Douglas County and the Douglas County Conservancy have stipulated that an easement will be created to create a road right of way, and the final design will move any disturbances onto Buc-ee’s property.
Ruiz discussed the PD criteria. She said the surrounding roadways would not be impacted by the travel center, and the center would increase the value of the annexed property. The PD specifies 820 parking spaces. She said there is adequate screening and buffering in the plan, and there is no light trespass. Snow removal will be done by Buc-ee’s. Some open space will be provided, and the town will also receive cash in lieu of open space. The maximum building height will be 40 feet. Monument Sanitation District will handle wastewater, and the developer will pay all costs for water infrastructure. Pedestrian walkways, parking areas, and landscaping all conform to standards.
To conclude the applicant’s presentation, Frear reviewed the annexation agreement contract, which includes:
• $14 million for water system improvements that include two new wells, a water line and water treatment plant, as well as wastewater and roadway improvements.
• $150,000 cash in lieu of open space for other open space projects.
• $350,000 contribution to the town’s General Fund.
• $1.5 million in estimated annual sales and property tax revenue.
• $325,000 annual water revenue.
• $107,500 annually for the Monument Fire Department and the Palmer
just received the 844-page packet hours before the meeting. He asked what zoning issues were included in the application and said he was concerned about something being hidden in the packet. Frear answered that the town should not sign the annexation agreement without reading it. She said the property would be zoned PD, and if the town changed the zoning later, Buc-ee’s could de-annex.
Commissioners’ questions
Fisher asked if the town was locked into the sketch plan or if detailed changes could be made. Krob said the board’s options were to approve the PD plan as presented, approve it subject to conditions, or deny it.
Commissioner Matt Ste-
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the 1% sales tax credit that would go to Buc-ee’s.
Frear said 1% of the sales tax would be rebated to Buc-ee’s for 20 years, and that is expected to amount to $500,000 annually to reimburse Buc-ee’s for infrastructure improvements.
Beeson asked if the town would have to pay for $5.9 million in infrastructure improvements. Frear said the town would have no such financial obligations. Krob said the annexation agreement says the town pays none of those costs.
Second annexation petition announced Todd Messenger, attorney for United Congregational Church, said a competing annexation petition filed Aug. 18 takes precedence and halts further action on the Buc-ee’s annexation. He asked that the commission discontinue the hearing. Messenger said he knew Krob disagreed with his opinion. Messenger’s announcement was met with raucous cheers from the audience, but the meeting was not halted.
Public comments
Forty-four attendees signed up to comment on the presentation from the Buc-ee’s consultants. Only two spoke in favor of approving the annexation. Highlights of the public comments:
• Resident Ian Griffis disagreed with the ecologist’s comments about wildlife and cautioned the commission that it should verify the statements made by the consultants representing Buc-ee’s. He said CDOT and the Douglas Land Conservancy had not approved any part of the proposed annexation. Palmer Lake’s process was designed to minimize feedback and ramrod the project through. He ended by saying he thought the town leadership wanted the project, but the residents did not.
• Dan Niemela, a water resource consultant with BBA Water Consultants Inc., said he had led a study of the Denver basin aquifers, some of which are declining by 17 feet annually. He pointed out that the more groundwater Palmer Lake pumps, the faster the aquifers will decline. The town does not have a long-term renewable water plan.
• Caitlin Quander, a land use attorney, requested a continuance from the commission. The lengthy packet did not include the annexation agreement, third-party comments, or reports that were submitted to the town. The new annexation petition announced by Messenger required a continuance. Quander disagreed with Krob’s opinion on Ihlenfeld’s comments in favor of the annexation, arguing zoning is a quasijudicial not a legal issue. If the commission continued the hearing, Quander recommended rejection of the proposal. She told the commission to go back to the table and negotiate a deal that protects the long-term interests of Palmer Lake.
• Resident Steve Draper also asked for a continuance because the commission had not read the packet, which they had just received. He reminded the commission that they represented the people, and canvassing had shown 70% of the residents opposed the annexation.
• Beth Harris, a candidate for a seat on the Palmer Lake Board of Trustees, said the El Paso County master plan is moot and the primary document to consider is the Palmer Lake master plan, which calls for small businesses and does not support a 74,000-square-foot store. She criticized the Buc-ee’s team for cherry picking from the town’s master plan. She pointed out that Buc-ee’s had revised its estimated water use upward three times. Her comments were met with applause.
• Kat Gayle, of Integrity Matters, objected to Ihlenfeld chairing the hearing because she said his fairness was compromised.
• Resident Roger Moseley, also a candidate for a seat on the Palmer Lake board, said he was surprised the commission was not offended by receiving the lengthy packet with no time to read it before the meeting. He cited several ways in which Buc-ee’s plan varied from the town’s master plan, which he helped to write.
Commission discussion
Beeson asked Krob to address the second annexation petition that Messenger had announced. Krob said Messenger had opposed the travel center since December and that he would take a look at the second annexation petition and give the commission his opinion before Aug. 28.
Fisher said he had two pages of issues with Bucee’s presentation. He did not agree the proposal complied with the town’s master plan. He wanted to preserve Palmer Lake’s small-town feel and natural environment. He pointed out that if a project does not comply with the master plan, the master plan must be amended before the project can be approved.
Fisher objected to the height of the proposed sign and asked for consideration of a smaller sign. He wanted more time to study the water reports. He pointed out that the travel center plan called for 187 more parking places than the municipal code allows and asked to see a plan with fewer spaces and less impermeable surface.
Beeson and Commissioner Andre Bergeron said they wanted to see the water and traffic reports from third parties that had been sent to the town but not provided to the commissioners.
Beeson said the commission had no choice but to continue its decision to a later date. Ihlenfeld asked Krob how that might be done, and Krob said the commission could continue the matter for up to 30 days. A longer continuance would require the consent of the applicant, Krob said, and without that consent a continuance of more than 30 days would be a denial.
Ihlenfeld made a motion to continue for three days. Beeson said more time was needed. Stephen said he was not comfortable with the annexation agreement he had received late the previous evening. Fisher pointed out the applicant would need time to respond to the issues he had raised. Beard said the Buc-ee’s team would address any issues the commission raised. Ihlenfeld’s motion to continue for three days failed on a tie vote, with Bergeron, Commissioner Herb Tomitsch, and Ihlenfeld voting yes and Beeson, Fisher and Stephen voting no.
After further discussion, the commission voted to reconvene on Sept. 3 and to submit its questions to the Buc-ee’s team by Aug. 27. **********
The next special commission meeting is scheduled for Sept. 3. The next regular meeting is scheduled for Sept. 17. See the town’s website at www.townofpalmerlake.com to confirm times and dates of board meetings and workshops. Meetings are typically held on the third Wednesday of the month at the Town Hall. Information: 719-481-2953. James Howald can be reached at jameshowald@ocn.me. Jackie Burhans can be reached at jackieburhans@ocn.me.
he would attract business to the town; how the board, the town staff, and residents should work together; and how he would keep his emotions in check in tense situations.
Beeson referred frequently to his military background in his answers, said he would stay true to the town’s master plan, and said he would let his moral compass guide him and would make decisions based on fact. He stressed the importance of fire mitigation, said he would pursue the town’s initiative to add sidewalks, and would support arts and culture as foundations for the town’s economic development.
When Mayor Dennis Stern questioned Beeson, he asked a question that he had not asked of the previous candidates: He asked Beeson if he had signed all three recall petitions and the ballot initiative requiring annexations to be put to a vote instead of being decided only by the PLBOT. Beeson answered that he had signed one of the recall petitions and the ballot initiative. Beeson asked Stern if those signatures were disqualifying. Stern answered that he believed Beeson had already decided about the annexation of land for a Buc-ee’s travel center. Beeson said he had not decided because he had not seen the final presentation from the developer. Beeson offered to say which trustee he believed should be recalled, but Stern said Beeson had already answered his question.
After Beeson’s interview, Stern ended the workshop and, after a 10-minute break, opened the special session.
Boyett appointed and sworn in After opening the special session, Stern said he had asked some but not all the other candidates if they had signed the recall petitions. He said he wanted to understand if the candidates had open minds about questions before the board. He said he “won’t be able to take any of those answers into consideration.” There were no public comments about the interview.
Stern asked the board for nominations to fill the vacant seat. Jurka nominated Beeson, and Hutson seconded the nomination. Dreher, Hutson, and Jurka voted for Beeson. Ball, Caves, and Stern voted no. The tie vote meant the nomination failed. Dreher nominated Boyett. Ball, Caves, Dreher, and Stern voted to appoint Boyett; Hutson and Jurka voted no, and the nomination passed.
Following that vote, the board voted unanimously in favor of Resolution 50-2025, which appoints Boyett to the vacant seat for the remainder of a term ending in 2026. Town Clerk Erica Romero administered the oath of office to Boyett.
Public hearing on land use code
At the Aug. 14 meeting, Stern opened a public hearing to discuss Ordinance 04-2025, which replaces the existing zoning and land use portions of the town’s municipal code with an updated version that the town contracted with Community Matters Institute (CMI) to draft. The work to update the code began in 2023 and was funded with a $15,000 grant. The grant requires the money to be returned by the town if the updated code is not approved by August 2025.
The debate focused on Article 17-1-80, which addresses the relationship of the land use code to the community master plan. The master plan has been discussed by the community recently as it relates to the town’s possible annexation of land for a Buc-ee’s travel center. Article 17-1-80 (b) of the up-
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dated code states: “Where a development proposal would be in substantial conflict with the Community Master Plan or other plan, an amendment to the Community Master Plan or other plan shall be
required prior to any zoning or subdivision approvals, unless the Board of Trustees adopts a resolution making specific finding that such an amendment is not required.”
Jurka asked for clarification of “substantial conflict.” Because the Planning Commission worked with CMI to update the code, Stern asked Charlie Ihlenfeld, the chair of that commission, to comment. Ihlenfeld said he did not recall the Planning Commission discussing that portion of the code. Town Attorney Scot Krob said “substantial conflict” was difficult to assess numerically, and it would be up to the board to define it in a specific case.
Resident Beth Harris, who is running for a seat on the board in the election to be held on Sept. 9, urged the board not to adopt the language regarding the master plan, arguing that it “reinforces disregard” for the master plan and “throws the people’s will into the garbage” by requiring only a resolution by the board to circumvent it.
Harris said, “Moves like this buried deep in the packet make people distrust the board.” When Harris turned to address the audience instead of the board, Stern told her not to use the public hearing for campaigning and said she could use the public comment time to make further remarks on any topic she wished to address.
Resident Matt Beverly pointed out that the language in subsection (b) was not in the previous version of the code.
Resident Roger Moseley, like Harris a candidate for a seat on the board, argued that the town has not been well-served by CMI, calling the updated code a “worthless cut and paste job,” and objected to the changes to the caretaker house provisions, which he said abridged his property rights.
Caves asked Krob if it was possible to remove the language regarding the master plan and then approve the remainder of the amended code. Krob said it was possible, that doing so that evening would avoid the requirement for the town to return the grant money, and there was no time to return the code to the Planning Commission for additional editing. He went on to say the language regarding the master plan was inserted to address “unusual circumstances” and to give the board more flexibility. Harris said minutes from the Planning Commission indicated Krob had inserted the problematic language.
Following the discussion, Stern asked for a motion, and Hutson moved to adopt the amended code with Article 17-1-80 (b) removed. The board voted unanimously in favor of Hutson’s motion. Real estate agent to develop Elephant Rock property
At the Aug. 14 meeting, the board heard a presentation about how the lodge at the Elephant Rock property might be developed by Greg Kaufman, a real estate agent and part owner of KCRE Advisors.
Caves introduced Kaufman and said the board’s goal was not to sell the lodge for the highest price but to find the right business that will generate tax revenue for the town in the long term. Kaufman said he was looking for a business that would generate $100,000 in tax revenue annually and would not sit on the property but would develop it immediately. He said he thought the lodge could provide revenue plus something the town does not already have, or at least “does not hate,” perhaps a wine-related business other than a vineyard.
Kaufman said he had been involved in many restaurant and brewery projects. He cited Monument Marketplace, Home Depot, Kohl’s, and Top Golf as businesses he had worked with. He said he can “create excitement and buzz.”
Hutson said the board required the business to be open before the land could be sold. Kaufman said that was not typical, but he liked a challenge. He said that he could not promise he could find the right business for Palmer Lake.
In response to a question from Jurka, Kaufman said the focus would be on the lodge, and the other two buildings would likely be torn down to provide parking space.
Stern asked Krob if he had reviewed the proposed contract with Kaufman. Krob said the contract could be approved that evening, subject to his later review. Cave said he wanted to move forward, and Hutson moved to approve the contract with Kaufman subject to Krob’s approval. The board voted unanimously in favor of Hutson’s motion.
Public comments
Three opponents of the Buc-ee’s travel center spoke against it during the public comment period.
Resident Martha Brodzik said she had submitted four Colorado Open Records Act requests and had never received the responses required by law. She said the annexation statement that the town released on July 25 was not a complete annexation agreement and was missing details such as who has priority when water restrictions are in place, the tiered water usage rate that Buc-ee’s would be charged for usage over 100,000 gallons per month, the tap fee for a 12-inch water tap, and who will pay various annexation expenses. She asked that the town respond to her requests for records.
Moseley said approving the Buc-ee’s annexation presented an ethical problem because the town
Above: At the August 6 workshop and special meeting of the Palmer Lake Board of Trustees, the board interviewed candidates to fill the vacancy created when Dennis Stern stepped down to be appointed mayor. Mike Boyett, former waste plan operator at the Upper Monument Creek Regional Wastewater Treatment Facility was approved on a 4-2 vote and Town Clerk Erica Romero (left) swore in Boyett. Photo by Jackie Burhans.
would be forcing on surrounding communities a development it would never accept within its own boundaries.
Sean Sawyer, of Tri-Lakes Preservation, said he liked the decision to remove the language allowing the board to circumvent the master plan from its land use code and asked if the town was ready for the problems the travel center would bring it.
Executive session
The Aug. 14 meeting ended with an executive session to receive legal advice on three matters: a possible amendment of a sale agreement between the town and Twenty 1 Five, LLC; the proposed Buc-ee’s annexation and a possible draft annexation agreement; and the pending litigation between the town and Integrity Matters.
Public hearing on annexation rescheduled
At the Aug. 28 meeting, Stern noted that the Planning Commission at its last meeting had postponed its recommendation on the proposed Buc-ee’s annexation until Sep. 3 and said the board should wait to hold its hearing and vote until the Planning Commission had completed its work. Stern said a zoning change required a minimum of five trustees to vote in favor, and he wanted all trustees to be present for that vote. The first date all trustees were available was Oct. 2, and he proposed the matter be held over until that date. The board voted unanimously to make its final decision on the annexation on Oct. 2. Following that vote, Krob addressed a second annexation petition that was announced at the Planning Commission meeting, which he referred to as the Chinn annexation. The Chinn annexation, he said, could impede Palmer Lake’s ability to move forward with its annexation. He told the board he had concluded that the Chinn annexation fails to meet legal requirements because it was not filed 10 days before Palmer Lake’s board meeting on Aug. 28 and did not involve the same territory as the Bucee’s annexation.
Recall election update
In her staff report, Town Clerk Erica Romero gave the board an update on the election to be held on Sept. 9, which will decide the recalls of Ball and Dreher and the ballot initiative requiring annexations to go before the voters. Romero said:
• Ballots were emailed on Aug. 18 and can be returned by mail or in a ballot box at the Town Hall.
• All ballots must be received by end of day on Sept. 9. Ballots postmarked on Sept. 9 but not received by that date will not be counted.
• Replacement ballots are available at Town Hall.
• There will be no in-person voting, and BallotTrax is not available to provide ballot status.
• Six election judges have been chosen based on election judge experience and computer skills.
• Each candidate and issue committee can appoint one election watcher to oversee the election.
• Preliminary results will be posted as soon as possible on the town’s web page.
Information about the election is at www.townofpalmerlake.com/administration/page/elections.
Public comments
When El Paso County Commissioner Bill Wysong rose to speak, Stern asked if he was speaking as a commissioner, a private citizen, or in some other capacity. Wysong said his comments were “generic.” He reminded the board that their job was to represent the people, and it would not meet again before the recall election. He said he hoped the election would go well and everyone would be respectful of the outcome.
**********
The next regular board meetings are scheduled for Sept. 11 and 25. See the town’s website at www. townofpalmerlake.com to confirm times and dates of board meetings and workshops. Meetings are typically held on the second and fourth Thursdays of the month at the Town Hall. Information: 719481-2953. James Howald can be reached at jameshowald@ocn.me. Jackie Burhans can be reached at jackieburhans@ocn.me.
Chrissy Holmes Insurance Broker
By Jackie Burhans
On Aug. 27, Palmer Lake Board of Trustees candidates Beth Harris, John Marble, and Roger Moseley spoke at a forum at Palmer Lake Elementary, aiming to replace two trustees if a recall election succeeds. Harris cited her finance background and love for the town. Marble, a college student, emphasized youth engagement. Moseley, a longtime resident, highlighted his experience in managing people and projects. About 55 attendees asked about priorities, trust, and communication. Candidates named stormwater drainage, transparency, and online engagement as key issues. **********
The Sept. 9 mail-only special election asks voters four questions:
1. Recall Kevin Dreher?
2. Recall Shana Ball?
3. If recalled, which two candidates should replace them?
4. Should citizens vote on annexations?
Ballots, mailed Aug. 18, must be received by 7 p.m. on Sept. 9. Postmarks don’t count. Mail or drop off ballots at Town Hall, 42 Valley Crescent St.; call (719) 481-2953 if you need a replacement.
Jackie Burhans can be contacted at jackieburhans@ocn.me.
By Jackie Burhans
The Monument Academy (MA) school board held two meetings in August to advance planning for East Campus facility upgrades and review proposals to expand high school programming. The board also heard an external marketing presentation and considered joining Colorado’s Universal Pre-Kindergarten (UPK) program.
In addition, the board approved decisions related to partnerships, policies, waivers, stipends, and other operational matters.
East Campus expansion strategy
President Ryan Graham opened the meeting by highlighting his five-year involvement with MA’s facility planning. He said MA is pursuing a phased build-out at East Campus, including track and field, a regulation-size gym,
classrooms, library, an 800-seat auditorium, and expanded student common areas.
Graham noted MA cannot complete all projects at once but is preparing for a multi-year campaign. He reminded the board of a $29 million balloon payment due in June 2026 and said MA is working with a bond advisor to restructure its debt.
CRP Architects President Brian Risley and Wember Inc. Vice President Dusty Black were available to present the Phase II design. Graham said MA formed a Design Advisory Group last month, including board members, staff, parents, and project partners, to gather stakeholder input.
MA has received $200,000 in donations toward the track and field project. Graham said the school is exploring financial options to prioritize
the new gym and convert the practice gym into a performing arts black box. That would allow time to raise funds for the auditorium.
MA will continue working with its bond advisor and will launch a capital campaign targeting high-net-worth individuals. Graham said naming rights and other recognition opportunities will be available.
Graham introduced a proposed contract with CRP Architects for a schematic design package to clarify project costs and support donor outreach. He said the blueprint would help MA engage donors. The board voted unanimously to approve the contract.
Partners present expansion master plan
Black said Wember Project Manager RJ LaForge led planning efforts for MA’s East Campus expansion, coordinating with the board and CRP Architects to set priorities and align budgets with cash flow. The team is moving quickly through schematic designs to support contractor engagement.
LaForge is preparing a request for qualifications for general contractors (GC) that’s expected to go public soon. Black said MA aims to onboard a GC by mid-September to provide accurate cost estimates. Surveying and soil testing are underway to confirm site feasibility.
The school plans to break
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ground on track and field in spring, with phased additions including bleachers, restrooms, press box, and concessions to bring it into Colorado High School Activities Association (CHSAA) compliance. Bleachers would hold up to 1,000 spectators, and there is room around the track for jumping and throwing pits. In the future, overflow parking could be built where the current field is located.
Risley said the master plan includes three expansion zones—north, east, and west—originally anticipated in the campus design. Existing utility access and building openings will support phased construction.
The revised layout proposes a 13,000-square-foot gym on the east side, featuring locker rooms, a main court, two cross courts, and seating for 800. The gym would have its own restrooms so it could operate independently for after-school events.
West of the gym, MA plans to expand common space by 3,000 square feet, connecting to an 835-seat auditorium with full stage and backstage facilities.
Classrooms and a media center would shift west to maximize views. The two-story wing with a central gathering space would support academic growth.
If the auditorium is deferred, MA might convert the current gym into a black box theater, offering a flexible performance venue with seating in the round, which could flex from 249 to 286 occupants. Black said the team is excited to help shape a campus that reflects the school’s long-term vision.
Presentations on arts, athletics, and academics Department heads’ ideas for building out their high school programs and estimating the costs involved were presented at the Aug. 25 special meeting.
Academics
Secondary campus Principal Angela Duca reviewed academic programs with a focus on student retention. Her team surveyed eighth-graders and high school students about why they stay or leave, especially after middle school.
Students who stay cited strong relationships with teachers, internship opportunities, upcoming new facilities, student council, and a sense of community. Middle school students often leave to attend high school with friends and teammates, join sports teams not offered at MA, or follow siblings to other schools for easier transportation.
High school students leave due to limited class options, few electives, a small number of AP courses, and
the lack of an auditorium. Some seek a different experience. Students also face scheduling conflicts that prevent them from taking preferred classes. They requested a library, more after-school clubs, and greater separation between middle and high school programs. Upperclassmen asked for off-campus lunch privileges, especially for student drivers, and supported a block schedule and expanded foreign language offerings, including American Sign Language.
Duca outlined immediate steps to improve retention, including educating middleschoolers about high school offerings and planning senior class trips. She proposed stipends for staff to organize trips and lead fundraising, starting with domestic travel and expanding to international options tied to curriculum. She encouraged parent volunteer involvement.
She also recommended launching after-school clubs immediately, with stipends for teacher sponsors. If a teacher volunteers to lead a club, MA would be obligated to offer it, she noted.
Duca suggested reviewing MA’s four-year math graduation requirement, noting that some students may not need it. Expanding beyond the current five AP classes would be costly, but students can still take AP exams independently. She proposed educating students about the College-Level Examination Program (CLEP) and encouraging enrollment during Academy Time. She also recommended exploring a scholarship program to support post-secondary education.
For long-term improvements, Duca supported adding sports and arts facilities, hiring more teachers for AP and electives, and building a separate high school academic wing. She also suggested collaborating with District 38 to expand AP offerings and explore opportunities at its new Career Innovation Center.
Fine Arts Strings teacher Cristin Patterson proposed that MA consider offering biennial European trips through the College Ambassadors of Music program. She reviewed MA’s current arts offerings, which include 2D and 3D Visual Arts, Drama, Theater, Film Study, and Theater Tech.
Patterson recommended organizing the arts program into three dedicated rooms: ceramics in the Kiln Room, digital multimedia in the Tech Room, and visual arts in the current Choir Room. To support the expansion, MA would need to hire an additional art teacher, purchase supplies and digital applications, up-
date curriculum, and build a new choir room. She cited past strategic plans that identified fine arts, music, and drama as MA’s strengths, but noted the lack of a performance space as a weakness. MA currently uses the East Campus practice gym for some performances.
Patterson said the school’s greatest need is an auditorium with space for set construction and storage, a music pit, dedicated sound and lighting, and comfortable seating. She estimated a new auditorium would cost $15 million, while converting the practice gym into a black box theater would cost $1 million-$2 million, plus staffing and utility expenses.
She praised the quality of MA’s arts classes and faculty but said the school needs more students to form a band and more programs to retain students. MA hosts the only strings program in the district but currently rents space at district-operated high schools for concerts and choir performances.
Athletics
Secondary school Athletic Director Lannie Vance said MA must invest in its own athletic facilities to retain eighth-grade students, noting that Palmer Ridge and LewisPalmer High Schools offer strong programs. MA’s high school identity is underdeveloped, and students lack a dedicated field and gym, she said.
Vance called athletics a magnet for retention, saying it builds pride, leadership, and community. She said MA could offer a personalized, character-first sports experience focused on agility and culture rather than program size. Without athletics, MA risks losing a key cultural anchor.
Now in her second year on staff and third year coaching, Vance helped grow the girls’ basketball program and unify boys’ and girls’ team culture to increase parent engagement. She is working to launch Matchwits and Speech and Debate teams and is exploring six- or eight-man football, a high school cheer program, and varsity boys’ volleyball. MA has some of the needed equipment and would fundraise to reduce costs.
Vance’s mission centers on putting students first, with athletics as a tool for character development. Her vision is for MA to be recognized statewide by 2030, develop leaders, and win with integrity. She said MA’s small size allows for high leadership potential and greater varsity opportunities. The program is character-first, agile, and community-driven, with an integrated K–12 pipeline. Expected outcomes include a 20%-30% increase in high school retention within three years, stronger student engagement, leadership development, and enrollment growth.
She recommended using social media to highlight teams and engaging students and parents to identify interests. She urged investment in facility upgrades, coaching staff recruitment and training, digital infrastructure for visibility, and scholarship and sponsorship programs. A Booster Club could support fundraising and manage scholarships.
Board Treasurer Craig Carle asked about D38 contributions to coaching stipends for CHSAA-sanctioned sports, noting that District 11 pays him to coach at Coronado High School. Executive Director Collin Vinchattle said MA must fund its own programs or contract with the district. He added that, as the only boys’ volleyball program in
the district, MA might qualify for additional funding.
Marketing proposal
At the Aug. 14 meeting, Carle said he and Vice President Lindsay Clinton have a goal to increase enrollment by 125 students by 2027 and would need to partner with a third-party firm on a multi-year basis to achieve this target. He described a recent meeting with MA’s internal marketing team as energizing and said the team is aligned with the goals. He emphasized the importance of investing in the current team while leveraging external expertise and said he would present more details at the upcoming special meeting.
At the Aug. 25 meeting, the board heard a presentation from principal consultant Josh Yancey of the Yancey Group, who partnered with Jesse Lange of Fish Bite Creative and Bill Roberson of MyCommTeam to develop a marketing proposal. Lange attended to answer questions.
Yancey said MA faces brand confusion, digital gaps, and inconsistent messaging, which hinder enrollment. Competing schools tell clearer stories, while MA’s value remains unclear to families. He emphasized that clarity would drive enrollment growth and strengthen the pipeline.
He described his team as culturally aligned professionals with local parental insight and traditional values, experienced in StoryBrand marketing for education and nonprofits. Proposed deliverables include discovery sessions, a messaging playbook, digital audit, opportunity map, and strategic roadmap.
Phase 1, a 9-to-12-week discovery process, would cost $20,000. Phase 2 implementation would cost $35,000, with timing based on deliverables. Phase 3 ongoing support did not include a defined cost.
Carle said MA’s internal marketing team would focus on retention, while the external team would target new enrollment. Clinton asked about timeline flexibility and the use of AI in content creation. Yancey and Lange said several of their tools leverage AI as an assistant and emphasized the iterative nature of their process.
Graham asked if the timeline could be shortened to four to six weeks. Clinton noted that other schools are already active on social media, and MA aims for December “intent to return” commitments. Yancey and Lange said they would explore a faster timeline with Roberson.
Universal Pre-Kindergarten Director of Preschool Kristi Hays proposed MA opt in to Colorado’s Universal Pre-Kindergarten (UPK) program, which funds 15 hours per week for all 4-year-olds at $608.56 per month, or 30 hours for qualifying children at $1,080.71. Parents of non-qualifying children may choose 30 hours but must pay the cost difference.
MA currently charges $450 per month for half-day preschool, increasing to $500 with enrichment. Full-day preschool costs $950, or $1,000 with enrichment. Thirty-four MA students qualify for UPK, which would generate $240,000 in funding. Hays noted UPK is funded by a sin tax on cigarettes and is not subject to federal or state education cuts.
Clinton said parents have expressed strong interest in MA joining UPK. Hays reported four UPK sites in D38 and additional providers nearby, including Bright Start, Hope Montessori, Antelope Trails Elementary in D20, and Tri-Lakes Community Preschool. El Paso County has 237 UPK providers: 74 school-based, 57 homebased, and 105 community-based.
MA has faced declining preschool enrollment and staffing shortages, resulting in limited breaks and no lunch coverage. Clinton said the program is not meeting its revenue goals this year.
MA previously opted out of UPK due to curriculum concerns. Hays confirmed MA’s curriculum currently meets UPK standards, and commitment would be limited to one year, allowing flexibility if future changes conflict with MA’s philosophy.
The board unanimously approved MA’s immediate participation in UPK. Board decisions
The board unanimously approved an updated organizational chart that reverts to a more traditional format showing the chain of command. It also approved the middle and high school athletic handbooks along with the 2025-26 school board meeting calendar.
The board approved a Kindergarten School Readiness Waiver that allows MA to opt out students from six to eight required assessments in the first 60 days. Vinchattle said the assessments took away from instruction time, and MA already has its own tools that are more concise.
The board approved its yearly memorandum of understanding (MOU) with Pikes Peak Business and Education Alliance (PPBEA) for career exploration and training. It also approved a one-time stipend for an employee who put in extra duty due to extenuating circumstances.
The board unanimously passed policy IJRB-MA Parental Notification and Opt-Out for Curriculum Materials Potentially Conflicting with Religious Beliefs after making some minor changes based on parental feedback. Highlights
Board meeting highlights include:
• Expulsion upheld. The Aug. 14 meeting started with an executive session to conduct a student expulsion appeal hearing. Upon return, Graham moved to affirm the decision of the administration regarding the expulsion, and the board unanimously voted to do so.
• Executive Director. Vinchattle thanked the Design Advisory Committee for its ideas, discussion points, and tough decisions that helped to guide the discussion with CRP Architects. He also thanked the board for supporting the staff breakfast and board member Jilinda Dygert for training on foundational points like core knowledge and MA’s educational philosophy.
• Financial. Graham announced that MA had received a $1.375-million anonymous donation, which was used to buy the parking lot at the West Campus and to pay for the modulars at East Campus. He also noted that MA would receive $2.2 million from the Employee Retention Tax Credit (ERTC) and would use some of that money to pay returning teachers a onetime bonus since they had had to
freeze salaries.
• Finance Director Laura Polen reviewed the June financials by school and fund, saying that total income for all three schools was $2.9 million. The preschool fund had a slight loss of $64,000 for the year.
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, Sep. 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.
Lewis-Palmer D38 Board of
Board discusses facilities planning, Career and Innovation Center, budget
By Harriet Halbig
The Lewis-Palmer D38 Board of Education discussed progress on the Career and Innovation Center, facilities planning, and the supplemental budget at its Aug. 18 meeting.
Career and Innovation Center
New Director of Innovative Programs
Amy Sienkowski spoke of progress in readying the Career and Innovation Center (CIC) for occupancy during the fall semester.
Sienkowski reminded the board that the goal of the CIC is to offer pathway-aligned programs and workbased learning.
Course offerings were developed based on conversations with similar centers in other districts, local businesses, and potential supporters in the industry. It was decided early in the process to offer courses in such areas as welding, engineering, homebuilding, and health science. Later in the process, it was decided to house the Transitions Program in the CIC building.
Sienkowski pointed out that development of the course offerings and demolition and reconstruction of parts of the physical building were achieved in much shorter time than originally anticipated. Inspections have been completed.
The final step is to acquire a certificate of occupancy, and students began to attend classes on Aug. 25. An open house for district staff was scheduled for Aug. 22 and a ribboncutting shortly thereafter.
There are 136 students registered for classes at the center. Director of Planning, Facilities, and Grounds Melissa Andrews said that attention has been paid to making parking lots and all facilities ADA-compliant so that students arriving by bus will be able to navigate the entrances.
She showed a brief slideshow of progress on the interior of the building. It is hoped that coursework will be followed by total immersion in the form of internships or externships
Chief Business Officer Brett Ridgway briefly explained that the CIC is located in an Enterprise Zone. This program, administered by the Office of Economic Development and International Trade, enables individuals or businesses who donate funds or stock to receive a tax credit of 25% for monetary contributions and 12.5% for
stock.
The Town of Monument brought this program to Ridgway’s attention He said that the district qualifies for participation because it is developing the local work force.
Former Director of Innovative Programs Jessica McAllister spoke briefly about her experience in planning the center.
Priority 4: Operations and Facility planning Priority 4 of the district’s strategic plan addresses facilities planning.
Andrews explained the process for evaluating the condition of district facilities and prioritizing projects to improve them.
During the 2024-25 school year, members of the Facilities Department and school staff members conducted walk-throughs of building interiors. In 2025, walk-throughs of the exterior were conducted.
A spreadsheet was created to prioritize the urgency of improvements by school for jobs such as painting walls and stripes on playing fields and replacing roofs and heating and cooling equipment
An additional goal is to document maintenance requirements such as striping and waxing floors, which happen on a predictable basis.
To ensure transparency, Andrews said that the spreadsheet will soon be available on the district website.
To view the spreadsheet, please go to the district website, lewispalmer.org, board of education, boarddocs by the meeting date.
Current projects include making final arrangements for the district’s downtown property. The Monument Planning Commission has approved the district’s proposed use of the property. Yet to come is approval by the Town Council. Surveying has been completed. Once the Town Council has voted on Sept. 15, the sale of a parcel to Tri-Lakes Cares may be completed.
The department will also evaluate operational performance within the district in such areas as transportation, nutrition, grounds, and facilities.
Budget report Ridgway reported on minor changes in the budget covering the fiscal year ending June 30. He said that generally, the district succeeded in spending 98%-100% of its budget during the 2024-25 year.
Some unexpected revenue came
Above: At its Aug. 18 meeting, the Lewis-Palmer School District 38 Board of Education recognized the district’s transportation team for its continued support of the Town of Monument’s Fourth of July celebration. For the 15th year, the team operated a shuttle from Lewis-Palmer High School to downtown Monument, helping paradegoers access the festivities. In addition, the team decorated a D38 school bus, which driver Van Kimmey proudly drove in the parade with students and staff aboard. Operations Manager Julie Abeyta introduced the team and highlighted each member’s role. Kimmey praised the department’s strong communication, training, and team culture at the bus barn. Back row, from left: Assistant Supervisor Mike Shad, Julie Abeyta, Route Drivers Sumitra Black and Marty Taylor, and Special Needs Driver Gary Tamblyn. Front row: Superintendent Amber Whetstine, Dispatcher Kirsty Castellano, Route Driver Tommy Fern, Kimmey, and Board President Tiffiney Upchurch. Photo courtesy of D38.
Above: School District 38 Superintendent Amber Whetstine recognized Communications Director Amy Matisek for earning her Accreditation in Public Relations (APR), a professional certification that requires a panel presentation and a four-hour, 158-question exam administered in Washington, D.C. Matisek called the APR a significant career milestone. She also highlighted Stephanie Gonzalez, part-time social media specialist and photographer, who received the Rookie of the Year award from the Colorado Public Relations Association. Matisek and former Communications Director Mark Belcher submitted a letter of recommendation on Gonzalez’s behalf. Communication Specialist Tyler Dumas, formerly with a local news program, was recognized for his work facilitating the livestreaming of D38 meetings. Pictured from left: board President Tiffiney Upchurch, Matisek, Dumas, Gonzalez, and Whetstine. Photo courtesy of D38.
from an insurance settlement due to a truck accident.
He said that thousands of individual accounts are involved in the budget process, and he is attempting to separate them all to examine the district’s finances in detail.
To view Ridgway’s presentation, please see boarddocs.
The board voted to approve the supplemental budget.
Staff recognition
The board presented Elevate 38 Staff recognition to two departments in the district.
The Transportation Department was recognized for its contributions to the success of the town’s Fourth of July festivities.
Dumas, who operates the board meeting livestream, was also recognized. New administration members In her Superintendent Spotlight, Superintendent Amber Whetstine introduced new Director of Innovative Programs Amy Sienkowski and new Human Resources Director Michaela Vanderheiden.
Action items
The board voted to approve changes in some policies involving school enrollment and other issues. Notable among these was the policy that members of the board will not receive compensation for their time.
The board approved a resolution to contact the El Paso County Clerk and Recorder to confirm participation in the Nov. 4 election. Vicki Wood was designated as the district’s representative.
The subject of student fee revisions was pulled for discussion from the Consent Agenda.
Transportation Manager Julie Abeyta introduced members of her team who drove buses to ferry people from Lewis-Palmer High School to the parade site, decorated a bus to drive in the parade and cleaned the bus afterward. She especially thanked Van Kimmey for driving the shuttle bus. Members of the team were awarded plaques for their contributions.
The district Communications team was recognized for a number of achievements.
Director of Communications Amy Matisek was recognized for being accredited in public relations for her drive, professionalism, and principles. This accreditation involved an online course and a lengthy exam.
Ridgway said that there is a fee schedule for all in-district students to participate in sports and some classes. Part of the per pupil revenue for all students contributes to these fees. In the case of sports where out-of-district students participate, it was decided that the annual fee per pupil will be $150. Sports include swimming and ice hockey.
The board approved the consent agenda. **********
Matisek recognized Social Media Specialist and Photographer Stephanie
Gonzalez, who received awards for her work on the state and national levels and was named Rookie of the Year at the state level by the School Public Relations Association.
Communications Specialist Tyler
The Lewis-Palmer D38 Board of Education meets at 6 p.m. on the third Monday of the month at the district’s Learning Center, 146 Jefferson St. in Monument. The next meeting is Sept.15. For information, contact vwood@lewispalmer.org.
Harriet Halbig may be reached at harriethalbig@ocn.me.
Monument Town Council, Aug. 4 and 18
Ordinances, resolutions pass
By Marlene Brown
The Monument Town Council held its regular meeting on Aug. 4 at the Monument Town Hall. All members of the council were present except Kenneth Kimple, who attended remotely. An oath of office was performed for newly hired Officer Hileigh Leseberg and affirmed by Chief Regan of the Police Department.
Next on the agenda was a presentation by Becky Leinweber, executive director of the Outdoor Recreational
Initiative. Outdoor Pikes Peak Initiative (OPPI) is a 501c3 nonprofit that partners with elected officials, the state Forestry and Wildlife departments, and county land managers, landowners who have similar goals and values for the Pikes Peak region, including El Paso, Teller, and Fremont Counties. For more information, see ppora.org.
Dan Ungerleider, director of the Monument Planning Commission, presented the following:
• Ordinance No. 152025—approving a major amendment to the Planned Unit Development for Native Sun Construction at 15010 Woodcarver Rd. The Planning Department found a 2021 Annexation and Development Agreement, and if certain conditions are met, 1. Municipal water, probably from Forest Lakes Metro District, most likely will be brought to the property. 2. The owner of Native Sun is required to improve and dedicate a set portion of Woodcarver Road. Staff requested that this case be continued until Aug. 18.
• Ordinance No. 16-2025— an ordinance adding Chapter 2.26 to Title 2 of the Monument Municipal Code to establish a town engineer. The ordinance will include duties and responsibilities of the position. The qualifications to fill the duties include engineering-related issues, ordinance modifications, public works standards, and construction specifications. Also, they must be able to work with the town staff to review and comply with federal, state, and county permits and applications, work with staff to help develop competitive and complete grant applications or funding proposals, serve as the town’s representative during reviews, plan approvals, construction management, and project close-outs. The engineer will be a subcontractor, work with the staff closely, and will be hired by the town manager. The ordinance was approved by the council.
• The interview process has been completed. The candidate was scheduled to come to the Town Council on Aug. 18 for final approval, and the town manager will sign the contract.
Resolution No. 49-2025 was presented by Tom Tharnish, director of Public Works, for the contract with Implied Ingenuity for the repair to Well No. 7. The well has been offline since July 9, and it’s considered critical to get it done. Implied Ingenuity was able
to get to the job done quickly and was able to identify the problems. The contract is now over $87,000 to get the repairs done and the well back online. The Council approved the resolution 7-0.
Resolution No. 50-2025, to appoint a new member of the Planning Commission, was also presented by Ungerleider, who asked the Council to approve Valerie Baumer as an alternate member with her term ending in December 2026. She will be eligible to become a member if a position becomes open. The council approved the resolution 7-0.
Resolution 51-2025—Human Resources asked for approval of a resolution regarding compensation.
Resolution 52-2025—Human Resources asked for approval of a new process to evaluate the town manager. Both Human Resources resolutions were approved. The documents can be found on the town website, townofmonument.org.
At the Town Council’s regular meeting on Aug. 18, all members were in attendance, including Councilman Kimple calling in from Oklahoma City.
The Council considered the following:
• Liquor License Authority—Festival Application/ Liquor License for GDP Inc. dba Pikes Peak Brewing Co. applied to hold a one-day permit for the Bines and Brews Festival on Sept. 20, at Limbach Park, 151 Front St. The request was approved 7-0.
• Ordinance No. 15-2025 was continued from the Aug. 4 meeting. The request involved consideration to approve a major amendment to the Planned Unit Development for Native Sun Construction. See the Aug. 4 information above. The Planning Commission has determined that the conditions of the agreement have been met and may apply to this request. The staff needs to complete its assessment request to move the public hearing to Sept. 15. A motion to continue action was approved 7-0.
• Ordinance No. 16-2025, to establish an indepen-
Monument Planning Commission, Aug. 13
dent contractor position of town engineer. Ungerleider said the town has been using an on-call engineer since 2017. The Planning Department began to seek qualified applicants and formalized the role of town engineer by passing Ordinance No. 16-2025 on Aug. 4. Ultimately, a resolution to approve a Professional Services Agreement for town engineer between IMEG Consultants and the Town of Monument passed 7-0.
• Resolution 54-2025, an amendment of the Intergovernmental Agreement (IGA) with the Colorado Department of Transportation reducing contract-
ed funds by $684,595, with the new contract amount of $8.177 million to be provided for design and construction of the Jackson Creek Parkway Expansion Project. The motion was approved 7-0.
• Resolution No. 55-2025, to request that the Town Council recover costs related to processing online payments starting Sept. 1 that will be charged to the consumer at the time of payment, including late fees. The motion was approved 7-0
Town Manager Madeline VanDenHoek said that this year’s Fourth of July parade was one of the largest in terms of parade viewers, up to 24,000
people. She said Monument received a $100,000 grant from Community Block Grants to be used for the Heart of Monument Play Park. Also, the Strategic Plan is being finalized and is set to be presented in October. The document is posted on townofmonument.org.
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The Town Council normally meets on the first and third Monday, unless the Monday is a legal holiday, when the meeting will be held the following Tuesday. The next meeting was scheduled for Sept. 2. Meetings are held at the Town Hall, 645 Beacon Lite Road, Monument. Marlene Brown can be reached at marlenebrown@ocn.me. vibrantlaserdentistry.com Call (719) 599-5340
By Janet Sellers
The Monument Planning Commission held a meeting Aug. 13 to discuss potential development standards for undeveloped properties adjacent to residential areas, emphasizing the community’s desire to preserve the town’s small-town character. At this meeting, town Planner Dan Ungerlieder introduced Valerie Baumer, recently appointed as an alternate member of the Planning Commission by the Town Council. The commission continues to seek members to act as alternates when needed.
Baumer’s professional background includes project management, risk management assessments, and government planning (primarily military/government contexts). She expressed enthusiasm to learn and contribute, noting similarities between local planning processes and her prior work. The commission welcomed her; no questions were asked.
The commissioners expressed concerns about how certain commercial uses—
such as hotels, drive-thrus, banks, and outdoor entertainment—could impact home
CO 80919
values and neighborhood character. They stressed the importance of maintaining the “small-town feel” that residents value, while still allowing for carefully planned commercial growth.
Staff members, including Maryam Moradian, senior planner, clarified that any zoning changes would primarily apply to undeveloped parcels and that spot zoning is not allowed. Options under consideration include amending planned unit developments (PUDs) or establishing contract-based restrictions for property sales, specifying allowed uses, building placement, and design standards. Commissioners highlighted Front Street’s small-scale development as a potential model, featuring live-work units and retail spaces suitable for small businesses.
By Natalie Barszcz
At the Tri-Lakes Monument Fire Protection District (TLMFPD) dba Monument Fire District (MFD) meeting on Aug. 27, the board approved an interest-bearing public funds money market account, authorized additional repairs to the Station 2 apparatus bay concrete and drains, and approved changes to the 2025 organizational staffing chart. The board heard that the 2024 audits and financial statements were further delayed and received multiple updates.
The district marked the retirement of Lt. Kevin Richmond and Battalion Chief Scott Ridings.
The board held an executive session pursuant to Colorado Revised Statutes section 24-6-402(4)(e) to determine positions relative to matters that may be subject to negotiations, and to instruct negotiators relating to labor negotiations.
Director Cody Peterson was excused.
Staff retirement marked Kovacs said that all the “bells and whistles” were pulled out for two retirement ceremonies held at Station 2 to mark the retirement of Richmond
The commission voted 7-0 to pause further discussion until the staff can refine proposals, develop clear standards, and provide additional analysis. The staff will also engage with the community to gather input on what types of development residents find acceptable near homes.
Other announcements during the meeting included updates on Monument’s comprehensive plan, ongoing public outreach efforts, and preliminary stormwater assessments from consultants. The staff noted that findings will guide long-term planning and funding for infrastructure improvements, particularly regarding the Fountain Creek watershed.
The planning staff also reminded the commissioners that all meet-
on July 31 and Ridings on Aug. 9. See photos above.
Financial update
Treasurer Tom Kelly said the district was at 58.3 % of the total budget year to date as of July 31 and presented the following:
• The combined overall revenue received year to date is about $19.825 million and 81.8 % of the 2025 income projected annual
ing resources—including municipal codes, past planning documents, and research reports—are being compiled into an accessible online binder to aid in decision-making and public transparency.
The commission plans to revisit the discussion once the staff returns with refined proposals and recommendations, including detailed maps and standards for potential small-scale commercial development. Residents are encouraged to stay engaged as the process unfolds, with opportunities for public input continuing through the comprehensive plan updates later this fall.
**********
The commission advises the Town Council on land use and development
revenue set at about $24.235 million.
• Overall expenses year to date are about $9.963 million and 53.1 % of the projected expense budget set at about $18.764 million.
• The district had about $24.577 million in total checking/savings (about $19.325 million in Operations/General Fund).
Kelly said the district had received 90% of the property taxes, boosting the Operations/General Fund by $3.2 millon. All 33 electronic transactions were appropriate and within budget, and of note was:
• $310,000, Front Range Apparatus Station 4 Ambulance
• $152,496, Flintco LLC, Station 4/ Mitchell property
• $78,000, Becker FR CO, SingleLayer PPE
• $156,888, Kaiser Permanente Health Insurance
• $9,140, Wex Bank Inc., Fleet Fuel Fire Chief Andy Kovacs said the district received a $20,000 grant from the state to help fund the purchase of the single-layer personal protective equipment. The board accepted the financial report as presented, 6-0.
Note: The new ambulance was placed into service on Aug. 8 at Station 4. See
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 is scheduled for Sept. 10, according to the website schedule. 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.
snapshot on page 20. Public funds money market account
Representatives from Community Banks of Colorado, the district’s local banking partner for the past 12 years, presented an option for the board to consider: creating an interest-bearing public funds money market account to maximize earnings for the district’s excess/idle funds. The Public Funds Money Market account will initially be set up to earn 2.5%, and at about $20 million invested would generate about $500,000 annually in interest gains. The rate is variable and subject to change as defined by the terms of the account agreement, with no market risk, fully secured under the Public Deposit Act, with no penalties, no fees associated, and no withdrawal limits.
The board voted 6-0, approving the establishment of an interestbearing public funds money market account with Community Banks of Colorado.
Station 2 additional repairs Division Chief of Administration Jamey Bumgarner said it is interesting sometimes that when you do things, there are unintended consequences for your actions. Previously, the Station 2 apparatus bays were wide open, and when the trucks were washed in the bays on the days with below-freezing temperatures, the water would run to the back of the bay and crews would squeegee the water to the drains. Fast forward six months, and the remodel added weight/workout, decontamination, and bunker gear rooms at the rear of the station, and now the water runs to the back of the bay under the rubber matting and into those rooms. The issue was brought to the administrative staff attention after the reopening of the station.
He requested the board approve additional funding for Flintco to replace and extend the French drains
Above: Lt. Kevin Richmond retired after serving 30 years, with almost half of his fire service career spent with MFD. Photo courtesy of MFD.
Above: Battalion Chief Scott Ridings retired Aug. 9 after serving 30 years to include service as the deputy chief of DWFPD. Photo courtesy of MFD.
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and improve the concrete direction to drain effectively in the apparatus bays at Station 2. The additional repairs were not part of the remodel but are necessary to complete the project. The repairs will take care of the excess water runoff and could begin within the next two weeks. The project is expected to take about three or four weeks to complete. Crews will move out during the process.
President Mark Gunderman asked why the architects had missed the drain issue.
Bumgarner said he and the architects thought the existing drains would be sufficient with the apparatus parked in the original spots, but after re-occupying the station, the crews stated they were pushing water out manually.
Director Tim De Leon said mold will begin to grow under the matting if the problem is not taken care of immediately, and suggested the district consider a product application to protect the concrete against oil stains.
In a 6-0 vote, the board authorized up to $60,000 for Flintco to make the Station 2 apparatus bay concrete and drain repairs.
Note: The remodel of Station 2 cost $1.719 million. See snapshot on page 21.
2024 audit report status
Kovacs said he and District Administrator Jennifer Martin had been press-
By James Howald
At its August meeting, the Woodmoor Water and Sanitation District (WWSD) board heard a summary of the bids to recoat a water storage tank from Richard Hood, a project manager with JVA Consulting Engineers Inc. His presentation was followed by a vote to award the contract. The board got a recommendation to move to a new online billing company from Office Manager Cory Lynch. Finally, the board heard financial and operational reports.
Recoat contract awarded to Coblaco Hood told the board that the district’s 1-million-gallon steel water storage tank located between Jackboot Way and Caribou Way in south Woodmoor needs to be sandblasted and coated with Sherwin-Williams paint. Corroded joints will need to be rewelded, Hood said.
Hood explained that the schedule for the recoat is critical because it is tied to the construction of a new concrete water storage tank at the same location that will increase the district’s capacity to store water. The concrete tank, which is being built by Preload, must be complete and filled with water before the existing tank can be emptied and recoated. The recoating must be complete before the start of cold weather, Hood said.
Five bids were received. Coblaco
ing CBIZ to have the 2024 audits and financial reports for MFD and Donald Wescott Fire Protection District 2024 audits ready for final review and approval at the meeting, but the audits continue to be reviewed internally by the auditors.
Martin confirmed the 2024 audit filing extensions were submitted to the state for both audits.
Kovacs said the 2026 budget is almost complete, but the final numbers from the 2024 audit are not available due to the delayed audits and financial statements. The board will receive the final position before accepting the audits at a future board meeting, but there are no significant changes from the presentation in June, said Kovacs.
2025 organizational chart changes
Kovacs proposed changes to the 2025 organizational chart and said that in light of the retirement of the accreditation manager Ridings and the addition of the executive battalion chief position, the district does not have a deputy chief or division chief of operations position, and “I am not effectively managing all nine direct reports, so much so that annual performance appraisals were not all documented in 2024.”
The original plan was to expose all five battalion chiefs through to the executive battalion chief position to gain administrative work experience for a year, and taking five years to achieve, but all five battalion chiefs have had
some administrative level of exposure in recent years. He proposed adding a division chief of operations (battalion chief position), downgrading the accreditation manager position below battalion chief level, and the pay scale change would be a wash. Letters of interest will be sought, and the positions will be filled internally. The chart would be effective within the next few weeks and carry over into fiscal year 2026, said Kovacs.
The board approved the changes to the 2025 organizational chart, 6-0. Chief’s report
Kovacs said that as a result of the recent retirements a lieutenant promotion board was held, and firefighter/ Paramedic Derek Thorne was selected to fill the position vacated by Richmond. The accreditation manager position held by Ridings has been filled, and the new employee will begin Sept. 22.
Kovacs highlighted the following:
• The district’s reciprocal closest unit response with Black Forest Fire/Rescue Protection District (BFFRPD) had increased to 14 mutual aid ambulance and engine responses (10 in June), with BFFRPD responding to MFD three times in June/July.
• July was a slower month compared to July 2024, but the district overall has been busier in 2025 than 2024.
• The first candidate offered the BFFRPD fire chief position has
Water tank recoat contract awarded
submitted the lowest bid, at $336,000; Viking Painting LLC submitted the highest at $1.3 million. Hood recommended awarding the contract to Coblaco. The board voted unanimously to do so.
New online billing provider chosen At previous meetings, Lynch discussed inaccuracies in bills calculated by Xpress Bill Pay, the district’s online billing provider, and the steps staff were taking to ensure customers receive correct bills. At the August meeting, Lynch recommended the district move to a new provider: Caselle. WWSD is already using Caselle for other services and the company has recently added online bill payment to its portfolio.
District Manager Jessie Shaffer said Caselle charges more for spot Automated Clearing House (ACH) payments than Xpress Bill Pay. ACH payments move money from one bank to another without a physical exchange of currency. He recommended that spot, or on-demand, ACH payments be dropped in favor of ACH payments only on the 20th of each month to keep costs low.
The board had no objections to the transition to Caselle, and Shaffer said he would review the issue with the board when implementation was 30 days away.
Financial and operational reports
In his financial report, board Treasurer Dana Franzen noted Accounts Receivable were high because he was reporting right after bills had been sent but before customers had time to pay their bills. Overall, the district was “on track budget-wise—where we should be,” he said.
The board voted unanimously to accept Franzen’s report.
In his manager’s report, Shaffer gave the board an update on the Loop water re-use project. He said the Loop’s consultants were in full swing on design issues such as the engineering for the advanced water treatment facility, the lift stations, and pipelines. A Request for Proposals to expand the capacity of the Calhan Reservoir would be published in the next few days, Shaffer said.
Negotiations to purchase the Sundance Pipeline from the Cherokee Metropolitan District were underway. Plans for lift stations, pipelines, water treatment and reservoir expansion were 30% complete, Shaffer said. The Loop is still being funded primarily by dollars from the American Recovery Plan Act, he said.
In response to a question from Director Tom Roddam, Shaffer said he expected marketing efforts to educate the public about the project to begin next year.
declined the position. It will likely be several weeks before the selection process is complete.
• The special session held by the state to address the deficit had no direct impacts on the fire district.
Administrative office move
Bumgarner said the district administrative staff is anticipating the move to its administrative building/storage facility at 19775 Mitchell Ave., Monument on Sept. 8.
Executive session
The board moved into an executive session at about 5:30 p.m., pursuant to Colorado Revised Statutes section 24-6-402(4)(e) to determine positions relative to matters that may be subject to negotiations, and to instruct negotiators relating to labor negotiations. Kovacs confirmed to this reporter that when the board returned to regular session, no action was taken and the meeting adjourned at 6:10 p.m. **********
Meetings are usually held on the fourth Wednesday every month. The next regular meeting is scheduled for Sept. 24 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 719-484-9011.
Natalie Barszcz can be reached at nataliebarszcz@ocn.me.
In his Operations report, Operations Superintendent Dan LaFontaine said the water level in Woodmoor Lake was higher than typical during the summer months and that would make returning the lake to full capacity easier. The Central Water Treatment Plant is currently running entirely on surface water and the Southern Water Treatment Plant is treating groundwater. In her Engineering report, District Engineer Cydney Saelens told the board that she had sent out the completion certificate for the transmission line for Well 22 that morning. The drilling for Well 12R was complete, the soundwalls were down, and site restoration was underway, Saelens said. She expected Well 12R to be online by the end of the year.
Saddle replacement would require road closures on Sunlight Way and Lions Head Drive, she said, noting the customers on those streets were notified with doorhangers. **********
The next meeting is on Sept. 8 at 1 p.m. Meetings are usually held on the second Monday of each month at 1 p.m. at the district office at 1845 Woodmoor Drive. Please see www. woodmoorwater.com or call 719-4882525 to verify meeting times and locations.
James Howald can be reached at jameshowald@ocn.me.
By James Howald and Jackie Burhans
The Donala Water and Sanitation District (DWSD) board met twice in August. Its regular meeting on Aug. 14 was followed by a special meeting on Aug. 22. At the regular meeting the
board heard operational reports and then adjourned to an executive session. At the special meeting, the board considered and voted on three resolutions relating to complaints about leadership and then adjourned to an
executive session.
Operational reports
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In his financial report, General Manager Jeff Hodge told the board that water sales stood at 40% of the expected amount due to rainfall. Revenue was still outpacing expenditures, he said, adding “As far as us keeping the lights on, producing water and making payroll, we’re good.” The board voted unanimously to accept the report.
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Hodge updated the board on the progress of the Loop, a water re-use project in which DWSD is one of three participating districts. Hodge said the Loop leadership is meeting with the contractors who will be working on the project to discuss procurement of equipment that requires long lead times, such as generators. On the water treatment side, granular activated carbon and ion exchange technologies are being reviewed, with the goal of avoiding two separate sets of disposal requirements. The Loop leadership is also negotiating with the Cherokee Metropolitan District regarding the purchase of that district’s Sundance Pipeline. Hodge said the Loop board is considering a public-private partnership framework for the financing the Loop will require.
Board President Wayne Vanderschuere asked Hodge about any plans to replace Mark Valentine, who had been serving as the Loop’s Workflow Manager until he resigned to take a position with Colorado Springs Utilities. Hodge said Merrick and Co., which contracted with the Loop to provide Valentine, would be bringing on new personnel to replace him. In his water report, Superintendent of Water Operations Ronny Wright told the board that the district’s Well 7D, adjacent to the DWSD headquarters on Holbein Drive, had completed the drilling phase and was being attached to a raw water line to deliver water to the Holbein treatment facility. He estimated the installation of electrical controls for the well would be completed by Sept. 17. Wright told the board the rehabilitation of one of the district’s three water storage tanks had encountered some problems. Employees of Viking Painting LLC, the company recoating the tanks, had damaged one of the tanks while pressure-washing it. In addition, application of zinc coating had not been done properly, leading to flaking. Vanderschuere asked if Viking was absorbing the costs to fix
Woodmoor Water and Sanitation District, Aug. 11
Donala Water and Sanitation District, Aug. 13, 22 General manager on administrative leave
these issues, and Wright said it was.
Waste Plant Operator Aaron Tolman reported that all wastewater measurements were in compliance for the month.
Aug. 13 executive session
The Aug. 13 meeting went into executive session to consider three agenda items: to receive legal advice regarding the district’s pending water court case no. 24CW3019, to discuss negotiations regarding infrastructure for the Loop, and to confer with the district’s attorney concerning workplace complaints.
Hodge placed on paid administrative leave
At the Aug. 22 special meeting, the board voted
unanimously in favor of three resolutions:
• Resolution 2025-5, which authorizes paid administrative leave for Hodge and appoints Accounts Receivable Specialist Christina Hawker as acting general manager.
• Resolution 2025-6, which authorizes an investigation into the district’s workplace culture and complaints about leadership.
• Resolution 2025-7, which designates Hawker as the district’s representative for decisions required by the district’s intergovernmental agreements.
Following the votes on the resolutions, the board adjourned to an executive session to consider three agenda items: the water court case mentioned above,
Monument Sanitation District, Aug. 20
Parker explains Buc-ee’s wastewater
By Jackie Burhans and James Howald
At its August meeting, the Monument Sanitation District (MSD) board heard an operational report from District Manager Mark Parker that clarified his previous remarks concerning the impact wastewater from the proposed Buc-ee’s travel center would have on the district.
Buc-ee’s wastewater compared to residential estimate
At the previous board meeting, Parker told the board that the proposed Buc-ee’s travel center was expected to produce about 27,000 gallons of wastewater daily, which would be “a lot less” than the amount generated by the residential development project, named Monument Ridge West, that had been proposed for the site but was abandoned in favor of the travel center. Parker said discussion of the travel center on social media prompted him to provide some detail regarding the calculation that led to his previous remarks.
Parker explained MSD uses the industry standard method to estimate the amount of wastewater a residential development will generate. The Colorado Department of Public Health and Environment (CDPHE) requires all residential development plans to assume each person will generate 75 gallons of
wastewater per day. CDPHE also assumes, for planning purposes, each home will have 2.54 residents. Those two assumptions lead to an estimate of 190.5 gallons of wastewater per day from each residence.
Parker said the Monument Ridge West proposal would have built a total of 355 residences: 300 apartments, 30 mixed family units, and 25 singlefamily homes. Using the estimate of 190.5 gallons of wastewater per day, those residences would have generated just over 67,000 gallons of wastewater daily, Parker said. Based on usage data from existing Buc-ee’s travel centers, the proposed travel center will generate about 27,000 gallons of wastewater daily
Parker emphasized that MSD does not pay any of the costs for new development. Buc-ee’s paid for the engineering study of MSD’s wastewater collection system that was done recently by GMS Engineering Inc., the company MSD selected to do the study, and which it has used many times in the past.
Parker also said that, should the travel center plan go forward, Buc-ee’s would have to pay for a lift station to be built, which Buc-ee’s would operate. The lift station would have to be built to MSD’s standard, he said. In most cases, Parker explained, developers pay for the construction of lift stations, and MSD takes ownership of them when they are
El Paso County Regional Loop Water Authority, Aug. 28
At the August meeting of the El Paso County Regional Loop Water Authority (EPCRLWA, or the Loop), board President Jessie Shaffer amended the agenda to add a discussion of a potential public-private partnership framework that could be used to finance the infrastructure for the water re-use project.
The board heard a progress report from Rebecca Hutchinson, a civil design engineer with Merrick and Co., who is acting as the Loop’s Workflow Manager and coordinating the work being done by the consulting and engineering companies contributing to the project. Corben Fromm, of Fromm and Co. LLC, reported on the Loop’s finances.
Tallgrass Water interested in financing the Loop Shaffer told the board he had received an indication of interest (IOI) from Tallgrass Water, a Coloradobased company established in 2012, that funds water infrastructure projects.
Tallgrass Water uses a public-private partnership (PPP) approach. PPPs are collaborations between governments and private enterprises in which the private side provides initial funding to build a project in return for a share of the operating revenue from that project.
Shaffer emphasized signing the IOI was not a commitment to Tallgrass Water but was an agreement to negotiate exclusively with that company for a 90-day period to begin when all the Loop’s design work has reached 30% completion. The design work underway includes engineering the water treatment facility, the lift stations, and the pipelines, and expansion of the Calhan Reservoir. Shaffer said discussions had been held with Meridiam and EPCOR, two other companies that provide PPP agreements.
Shaffer recommended approving the IOI, and
By Natalie Barszcz
At the Triview Metropolitan District (TMD) meeting on Aug. 21, the board received the results of a recent traffic analysis study, approved pursuing eminent domain to widen a public road should good faith negotiations fail, and a new lease agreement for a wireless company. The board heard that the Higby Road project would begin next month.
The board held an executive session to discuss the purchase and sale of water and land and agreements with the Town of Monument (TOM) and other governmental and private entities and associated entities. The session also discussed the purchase, acquisition, lease, transfer, or sale of real, personal, or other property interests needed by the district, including initiation of eminent domain proceedings.
President Jason Gross was excused. Traffic analysis study results Adam Gomez P. E. of Kimley Horn presented the results of the Jackson Creek Parkway (JCP) Traffic
the board voted unanimously to move forward with Tallgrass Water.
Progress report
Hutchinson told the board that work by Burns & McDonnell on the design of the water treatment facility and the pumps and pipelines was proceeding on schedule, and a tour of a water treatment facility and pump station in Castle Rock had been scheduled for Sept. 4. Alignment of pipelines along Higby Road was being discussed with Mountain View Electric Association, and Western States Land Services LLC will begin discussions with landowners regarding easements for the pipelines in the southern portion of the Loop. Hutchinson said she had scheduled a meeting for Sept. 2 with Cherokee Metropolitan District to discuss the purchase of that district’s Sundance Pipeline. Hutchinson said four companies had responded to the Loop’s Request for Proposal to expand the capacity of the Calhan Reservoir, and two of those companies would be interviewed before making a final decision.
Financial report
Fromm told the board that invoices totaling $94,548 had been received for July, and the board authorized Fromm to pay them. He reported that the Loop had spent 7% of its $5.5 million budget for 2025.
**********
The next regular meeting is scheduled for Sept. 18 at 9 a.m. Regular meetings are held on the third Thursday of each month at 9 a.m. at the Monument Town Hall at 645 Beacon Lite Road. Workshop meetings are held the first Thursday of each month at 9 a.m. at the Monument Town Hall. Please see loopwater.org or call 719-488-3603 to verify meeting times and locations. James Howald can be reached at jameshowald@ocn.me.
a customer requesting a waiver from a required wastewater connection, and legal advice about workplace complaints.
The next board meeting is on Thursday, Sept. 18 at 1:30 p.m. Generally, board meetings are held on 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
estimate
complete. In the case of the travel center, the lift station would be owned, operated, and maintained by Buc-ee’s.
**********
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 Sept. 17. 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.
Analysis Feasibility Study, and he said the westernmost access from the King Soopers parking lot left turn that crosses multiple lanes was included in the study, plus the Lyons Tail exit that also requires the crossing of multiple lanes to travel south on JCP. Gomez recommended:
• A traffic roundabout (circle) on JCP at Lyons Tail Road to alleviate long wait times and dangerous turns at both left-turn exits.
• A dedicated right-turn lane bypass from Lyons Tail Road, maintaining the existing crosswalks and foot paths.
• A right turn only from the King Soopers parking lot. Gomez said the project is estimated to cost about $4.8 million, but costs could be reduced if the geological technician reveals that the paved areas can be salvaged. The estimate incorporates the potential for cost increases if the project is delayed for a few years and will likely take six to 10 months, but traf-
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fic flow can be maintained with a longer construction phase, said Gomez.
District Manager James McGrady said the 2026 budget can include funding for the design of the project and go out for bid in 2026, with the construction phase planned for 2027.
Eminent domain pursued
The board reviewed and considered approval of Resolution 2025-14, a resolution of the board authorizing McGrady to initiate eminent domain proceedings for the acquisition of right of way and real property interests necessary for the widening of public road Blevins Buckle Trail. The widening will include the installation of public utilities, public infrastructure, curb, gutter, and sidewalk, landscaping, and other improvements necessary for the installation of a public road accessing a 30-acre parcel of land known as the Legacy at Jackson Landing, should
By Marlene Brown
At the regular meeting Aug. 5 of the Board of County Commissioners (BOCC), a hearing was held on the application dated June 9 by Mountain View Café & Catering for a hotel and restaurant liquor license for their location at 111424 Black Forest Road. After testimony from staff of Mountain View Café and surveys received by local residents and neighbors that all had favorable comments, it was deter-
By Marlene Brown
The El Paso County Planning Commission (EPCPC) held its regular bimonthly meeting on Aug. 7. All voting members of EPC and staff were present. The agenda was requested by Commissioner Eric Moraes to be amended for the consent items to be heard as called-up agenda items. Item number VA2523—Variance of Use, Spaatz Road—was moved from the consent items to the calledup agenda for hearing. This was a request by Jason and Emily Schott for approval of Variance of Use on 5.15 acres to allow an additional dwelling
good faith negotiations fail.
Assistant Manager Steve Sheffield confirmed to this reporter that when the board returned to the regular session, they engaged in discussion before unanimously approving a resolution 4-0, authorizing the district to pursue eminent domain for the land on the south side of Blevins Buckle Trail.
Lease agreement
General Counsel George Rowley requested the board consider approving a structure lease agreement with New Cingular (AT&T) Wireless PCS LLC for the C Plant tank in Sanctuary Pointe. The district receives $1,800 per month with an annual 2% escalator, a benefit for the district. The structures will be color-matched to the tank, said Rowley.
The board approved the structure lease agreement, 4-0.
Higby Road project updates
McGrady said the bonds for the Higby Road project had been completed on July 30, for the voter-approved $12.6 million at an interest rate of 5.05%.
Kiewit anticipates construction to begin in early September on the east side of Harness Road, working west installing utilities and storm pipeline for the widening project. For additional information about the project, visit https://triviewmetro.com.
Executive session
The board moved into executive session 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), including initiation of eminent domain proceedings. The board received legal advice pursuant to CRS section 24-6-402(4)(b) as it re-
El Paso Board of County Commissioners, Aug. 5
Liquor license approved
mined that the applicants had satisfactorily completed all the requirements of the Colorado Liquor Code.
The board forwarded approval to the state Department of Revenue, Liquor Enforcement Division, the licensing authority.
The board approved a 107-acre Final Plat for creating 10 single-family lots one-third mile east of the Intersection of East Thunder Road and Gamblers Place. The property is located in
RR-5 (Residential Rural) zoning. Also approved was a request by Flying Horse Land Co. LLC for a sketch plan for 1,821.3 acres adjacent to Shriever Air Force Base with plans for over 4,900 homes. It is located at 16661 Highway 94, Colorado Springs. It was reported last month that the Planning Commission denied the motion for approval with a vote of 3-5. This time, the BOCC approved the motion 4-1.
El Paso County Planning and Community Development, Aug. 7
Variance for rental unit rejected
unit in the RR-5 Residential Rural district. The property is about 1.5 miles northwest of the intersection of I-25 and Baptist Road. The Schotts were there for an additional second dwelling variance for a garage that was converted to a rental with living quarters. The garage was permitted in 2022 as unheated and unoccupied and later converted to living quarters without updating the permit.
Jason Schott acknowledged making a mistake and was looking to correct the issue. Heat was installed in 2023 as the conversion to rental property was completed.
Neighbors of the property testified they were concerned about the increased traffic and use of a long-term rental property that would increase their taxes on the surrounding properties. Though Commissioners Tim Trowbridge and Becky Fuller said the property was always intended to be a rental, and an attempt to circumvent the Land Development Code and Master Plan would only set a precedent for other owners to convert properties without proper approval, the request for hardship was not inherent, and they would vote against the request. A motion for disapproval of the consent
Gleneagle Civic Association, Aug. 12
lates to water matters and agreements with the Town of Monument (TOM) and other governmental entities. The session also determined positions related to matters that may be subject to negotiations as it relates to an agreement with TOM, and acquisition of right of way for street improvements pursuant to CRS, section 24-6-402(4) (e), including initiation of eminent domain proceedings.
**********
Meetings are usually held on the third Thursday of the month at the district office located at 16055 Old Forest Point, Suite 302. The next regular meeting is scheduled for Sept. 18 at 5:30 p.m. For meeting agendas, minutes, and updates, visit https://triviewmetro.com.
Natalie Barszcz can be reached at nataliebarszcz@ocn.me.
The BOCC normally meets at the Centennial Hall Auditorium, 200 S. Cascade Ave., Colorado Springs, every Tuesday at 9 a.m., and the BOCC land use meetings are every second and fourth Tuesday at 9 am. For more information, go to bocc.elpasoco.com. Marlene Brown can be reached at marlenebrown@ocn.me.
item passed 5-2. The item will be forwarded to the Board of County Commissioners for its consideration.
**********
The EPCPC normally meets on the first and third Monday of the month at 2880 International Circle, Suite 110, in Colorado Springs at 9 a.m. You can view hearings remotely at https://planningdevelopment.elpasoco.com/planning-communitydevelopment/2025-hearings-schedule/. Marlene Brown can be contacted at marlenebrown@ocn.me.
GCA holds Town Hall to review rewritten covenants
By David Futey
On Aug. 12, the Gleneagle Civic Association (GCA) board held a Town Hall Zoom meeting to seek feedback from the Gleneagle community on a draft version of the community’s Declaration of Covenants, Conditions and Restrictions document. Board members Jimmy Owenby, GCA president, Steve Kouri, treasurer, Glenn Leimbach, board member at large, Mark Connell, board member at large, and Jeff McLemore, board member, along with GCA legal counsel Bryce Meighan with Orten, Cavanaugh, Holmes & Hunt LLC were present.
Before the Town Hall, the GCA board informed community members of the event through email on Aug. 4 and 11, including a draft of the rewrite and outlining the need to rewrite the declaration in the latter email. In part, the Aug. 11 email stated, “Our current documents, originally written decades ago, have become increasingly difficult to interpret and, in some areas, contradict provisions of the Colorado Common Interest Ownership Act (CCIOA). After careful consultation with the community’s legal counsel, the board determined that a full rewrite—rather than piecemeal amendments—was the most effective way to bring our governing documents up to date.”
The email continued that the stated goals of the rewrite were to “align the documents with current state law and regulations; simplify and streamline the language for ease of understanding; modernize the content to reflect the evolving character of our neighborhood.”
At the opening of the Town Hall, Owenby reiterated the need for a rewrite. The board seeks to replace the existing covenants that were created in 1973 and updated in 1983 along with additional amendments after 1983. The existing covenants document is difficult for homeowners and
the board to interpret and the board to enforce, he said. The goal is to create a clear, legally compliant with CCIOA and other laws and community-acceptable document that reflects changes that have occurred within the community.
The draft also seeks to remove unenforceable provisions and outdated rights and powers held by the original developer since the community is now fully owned and managed by its members who clarify governance and operational roles within the GCA. Owenby said the major reason for the rewrite is to clarify “the governance and overall operation of the GCA.”
Owenby said the board expressed thanks for the “really good feedback” received by email from community members before the Town Hall. He said the board will hold additional Town Halls including an in-person one, before a community vote is taken in November. Voting on the finalized covenants will be conducted by mail over 60 days to accommodate a quorum for the over 700 GCA households. Owenby said all lot owners are members and there is one vote per lot. He also emphasized that this is the first draft with revisions to follow based on community feedback and board review.
The Town Hall proceeded through eight of the 12 articles in the document during its two hours, with the board providing a description and overview for each article and allowing for feedback and discussion with online community members. The following articles were covered: Article 1: Name and Location; Article 2: Definitions; Article 3: Association Membership, Allocation of Votes, and Allocation of Liability for Common Expenses; Article 4: Easement and Common Area; Article 5: Assessments; Article 6: Maintenance Responsibility; Article 7: Architectural Controls; Article 8: Covenants.
The following provides an overview of what was discussed during the covenants’ draft document review.
• The board clarified that there is no current intention to pursue a special assessment but included provisions for future boards to do so with a high approval threshold of 67% of total membership, rather than a simple majority. (Article 5.6).
• A cap on annual assessments is proposed in the draft at $400 per lot (adjusted annually by the Consumer Price Index or 5%). This would maintain the community’s small plan status as a limited expense HOA, being below the CCIOA threshold. Community members asked if a lower amount than $400 is possible and expressed concern over potential future increases. The board and attorney explained that the cap at $400 or less would be below the CCIOA threshold.
• The GCA annual assessment is presently at $67. It can only be increased at a maximum of 5% annually. A vote by the membership would be required if the board seeks an increase higher than that percentage. Owenby stated that “assessments have not kept up with what we are doing now, such as taking care of the open space.”
• Borrowing provisions are included in the draft to allow the association to quickly access funds for emergencies, such as flood damage, with banks typically requiring pledges of future assessments as collateral. The board acknowledged community members’ concerns about including borrowing guidelines and expressed willingness to consider adding those in the next revision.
• The document consolidates voting procedures, including quorum
definitions and approval thresholds for various actions. Quorum requirements differ depending on the activity, whether for board meetings or membership voting, for example. A 20%-member quorum, based on 2018 bylaws, is needed for voting during a board meeting to put an issue to vote to the general community. An approval of 67% of all members is recommended for special assessment approval instead of the present 51%, and a recommendation is being put forth in the draft for 80%-member vote approval for changes to the open space.
• Homeowners are required to maintain their lot and make improvements consistent with community standards, with specific timeframes (e.g., 15 days to control weeds, 30 days to complete maintenance and repair) for addressing violations.
• A discussion involved current practices involving notices from the board and submissions by neighbors for covenant violations. There was an expressed desire for the process to be professionally managed, fair, and equitable across the entire community. Owenby noted that the latter is difficult with the present four volunteers. Community members expressed interest in formalizing the violation adherence process in the covenants to provide consistency and prevent overly strict enforcement.
• Meighan suggested community members submit suggestions relative to Article 6.3 regarding Failure to Maintain.
• The covenants establish an Architectural Review Committee (ARC) responsible for approving property improvements, with a 30-day review period. If the ARC does not respond, the applicant
September 6, 2025
can notify the board president they intend to proceed as identified in the application. If the association does not issue a written disapproval within 15 days, then the improvement can proceed and deemed in compliance (Article 7.8).
• The board plans to update the architectural guidelines to reflect modern community standards and accommodate changes such as artificial turf, which is allowed with ARC approval.
• Concerns were raised about the requirement for homeowners to pay for consultants hired by the
By Jackie Burhans
The Woodmoor Improvement Association (WIA) board met on Aug. 27 to hear residents’ concerns about shortterm rentals and to review board member reports.
Short-term rental
nuisance concerns
Several residents came to the August meeting to express their concern and frustration with a nearby home that had been turned into an Airbnb, citing late-night noise and excessive cars parked on the property during summer rentals. One resident noted that the listing was targeted at large groups of 16 to 20. Although shortterm rentals are not mentioned in Woodmoor’s covenants, she noted that it says no property shall be a nuisance. She stated that she contacted the homeowner, who responded, but expressed concern about having to text them at 10 p.m. She asked if that is what we want for this neighborhood, noting that other neighbors are also frustrated.
President Brian Bush said that all board members understood the residents’ position. However, he noted that the state Legislature passed Senate Bill 134 in 2024 that prohibited homeowners’ associations from banning home businesses (see https:// leg.colorado.gov/bills/sb24-134).
The resident asked how to get the law changed and was advised to contact her state representative and have others do the same.
Bush said that WIA has taken the position that short-term rental businesses must submit an application, provide a local point of contact, and agree to inform tenants of the cove-
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 letter, the letters are arranged in alphabetical order based on the last name of the author.
Open Dirty Woman Park to everyone
It seems the mayor and key city people voted to change the use options for Dirty Woman Park. Monument changed Dirty Woman Park from a public park to a private park for the mayor and his staff’s use only, on July Fourth.
The city only has three parks. Dirty Woman Park is the only fullservice park. Limbach Park has bathrooms, no grills or parking. Lavelett Park has no bathroom, no grills, or parking. Limbach and Lavelett parks are not available for July Fourth due to the parade.
Dirty Woman Park goes to the first bidder, which the city reserves for itself on Jan. 1 each year. Over 18 years ago, the city invested by putting three grills in the park so more people could use it. Why would you spend the money to put in grills when no one can use them when the city reserves the pavilion? I request that we go back to the old rules! Current rules make no sense. Did the city and/or mayor think through any of the alternatives? Dirty Woman Park is the only park set up to have multiple groups. It was done that way when the city added all the extra grills under the tree line.
board to review project applications (Article 7.5), especially for smaller projects, and members suggested including guardrails to prevent excessive review costs.
• The board acknowledged the need for flexibility in construction timelines due to contractor availability and other delays, and the potential inclusion of permit closeout requirements.
• The covenants draft addresses the use of lots, attempting to balance the allowance of homebased businesses with restrictions to maintain residential character (e.g., limiting traffic).
• A discussion involved the existence and feasibility of short-term rentals (e.g., Airbnb). It was stated that Colorado courts defined short-term rentals as residential and not a commercial business. There are no current restrictions on short-term rentals in the draft, but the board is open to future community-driven discussions on this topic because community members have expressed issues with such rentals.
• Leasing provisions include the association’s right to require owners to evict tenants for covenant violations (Article 8.3), although
Woodmoor Improvement Association, Aug. 27 Board hears short-term rental concerns
nants, rules, and regulations. The resident said the owner had been in business for a year and had not submitted an application; Bush said WIA would have that discussion with the owner.
WIA will regulate the conduct of tenants and enforce rules and regulations against the property owners if it is notified that other residents are prevented from the quiet enjoyment of their property, Bush said. Until recently, WIA had not been notified of this case.
Board member Jason Hann said WIA has several covenants that protect residents’ peace, noting that parking on the grass and excessive noise are violations of the covenants. If residents report it to WIA, Woodmoor Public Safety (WPS) will ask the tenants to resolve the issues.
A resident noted that the number of cars parked at the Airbnb exceeded the four-car limit. Director of Public Safety Brad Gleason noted that El Paso County, in adopting ordinance 22-002, took away WIA’s authority over parking on county roads in Woodmoor. Hann noted that the same rules and regulations on noise and parking could be used as a basis for a complaint against someone holding a family gathering.
Bush emphasized that the same rules and regulations that apply to short- and long-term tenants also apply to owners. Most owners follow the rules, he said. Legally, short-term rentals are not, by definition, a nuisance, he said; but the conduct of tenants may become a nuisance. WIA regulates under its nuisance provisions any conduct that interferes with a resident’s right to enjoy the quiet use of their property. Hann noted that WPS
officers have body cameras that eliminate any concerns about hearsay. Both Gleason and Hann offered the residents contact numbers to call to report their complaints. Highlights
• Treasurer: Bush, speaking for Treasurer Pete Giusti, noted that there was money available for Forestry to spend and asked Hann to return with a plan to spend it or let the board know otherwise. Davis asked about a miscellaneous item that increased revenue by 3,000%; Bush said it was a one-time payment for an easement for Well 12R.
• HOA: Administrator Denise Cagliaro said there were 105 unpaid accounts and that payments were trickling in or were settled when the homes were sold. There are 45-50 properties with accounts outstanding for multiple years.
• Covenants: Director Jennifer Davis reported 53 cases, including one unfounded complaint, and four violations for July. There were 48 issues resolved through courtesy letters; WIA processed 14 HOA checks in July and held one covenant hearing in August for open burning. She reminded residents to move trash cans out of sight after pickup, obtain permits to park trailers or RVs for more than 72 hours, and that the minimum fine for burning trash, slash, or pine needles starts at $5,000.
• Public Safety: Gleason reminded residents that school is back in session and asked that they watch their speed and anticipate back-
Letters to Our Community
Maybe the city could require more full-service parks; it’s a beautiful area. This town needs more community areas, not more houses right next to each other.
I talked to some city staff people, and they said we would need more people writing to the city to get the mayor to change his mind.
Doug Anema
I’m
running for D38 Board of Education
I’m Jackie Burhans, and I’m excited to announce my candidacy for the LewisPalmer D38 Board of Education. My deep commitment to public education, professional background in technology at IBM, time as a small business owner, experience as a facilities specialist at Tri-Lakes Cares, and years as an Our Community News (OCN) reporter give me a unique perspective on the challenges and opportunities ahead for our district.
My husband and I moved to Monument in 1992. Our son attended Lewis-Palmer schools from kindergarten through Palmer Ridge High School. From volunteering in classrooms and PTO, to serving district accountability and ad-hoc committees, to reporting on school meetings for OCN, I have spent more than 20 years actively engaged in our schools and our community.
Educators are the heart of D38, inspiring a love of learning, guiding students through challenges, and preparing them for successful futures. They deserve respect and compensation that match the exceptional results they deliver. I will advocate for policies that attract, support, and retain high-quality teachers.
I believe in championing educational choices that allow every student to shine—whether through
this might conflict with recent Colorado tenant protection laws requiring 90-day notices, a legal complexity the board intends to review further.
**********
The board intends to announce another Town Hall after the next draft revision is completed and provided to the community. The Town Hall is expected to be held in the second week of September.
David Futey can be reached at davidfutey@ocn.me.
strong core academics, arts, athletics, dual enrollment, or the many options at the new Career Innovation Center. Our schools should open doors to the widest range of opportunities beyond graduation.
Finally, I will build bridges between our schools and the wider TriLakes community. All families in the district, even those without students in school, have a stake in the success of our future leaders. By fostering communication, transparency, and engagement, I will ensure that D38 continues to be a source of pride and strength for us all.
I look forward to listening, learning, and working with you to support the future of our students and our community.
Jackie Burhans
Thanks to all for the big move
The recent move of the Silver Key Senior Center from Grace Best school to the Monument Community Presbyterian Church is concluded. I was privileged to work with the steering committee as well as assist with the many volunteers that came forward from near and far to complete the extensive move that involved sorting and designating what goes in storage or to the church and Goodwill. It took many trips and enthusiastic volunteers. I took several necessary trips to Goodwill, where all of the workers unloaded my jam-packed SUV. I gave my kudos to Brenda and Lauren (manager/supervisor). I’ve visited the new setup at the church and found it well-attended and very well set up for the seniors. My compliments and thanks to all who made the necessary move painless.
John H. Howe
ups. There have been reports of possible mail thefts, he said, reminding residents to be mindful with the holidays approaching and sign up for Informed Delivery with the Post Office. Bush noted that bears are feeding in anticipation of winter.
• Architectural Control: Director Ed Miller reported 36 project submissions in May, including 26 approved administratively and nine by the Architectural Control Committee. Year-to-date projects have been approved at a 98.5% rate.
• Forestry: Hann said that WIA completed 18 forestry and Firewise visits. The mitigation grant is ready for state inspection, but a review of current conditions must be completed before an application can be approved. Processing has been delayed by statewide fires, which have required all hands on deck.
• Common Areas: Cutler noted that new windows were installed at the barn in the week of July 21 and that backflow testing was completed, with the results sent to Woodmoor Water and Sanitation District. Prairie dog mitigation was completed on July 26. **********
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 Sept. 24. See www.woodmoor.org to confirm meeting details. Jackie Burhans can be reached at jackieburhans@ocn.me.
Jackie for D38
I am writing to enthusiastically support Jackie Burhans for the Board of Education. Jackie is exactly the kind of leader our schools need—dedicated, thoughtful, and deeply committed to ensuring every student has the opportunity to thrive.
After years of unbiased reporting on all of our schools in D38, Jackie brings a unique blend of professional expertise and community involvement. She listens carefully, asks the right questions, and seeks balanced solutions. Most importantly, she values collaboration, transparency, and accountability—all qualities that build trust between families, teachers, and the district.
In a time when our schools face tough challenges, Jackie offers steady leadership and a clear vision. She cares about academic excellence, fiscal responsibility, and creating a safe, supportive learning environment for all students. Her ability to engage respectfully with diverse perspectives will make her a unifying voice on the board.
I am excited to cast my vote for Jackie Burhans, and I encourage others who want a strong advocate for our kids and community to do the same. Jackie has the heart, the skills, and the commitment to make a real difference. You can follow her and learn more about her platform on her Facebook page and at jackie4d38.com. Let’s elect Jackie Burhans to the Board of Education—our students, teachers, and families deserve nothing less.
Heather Jacobson
Feral horses are not wildfire solutions
The idea that feral horses reduce wildfire risk and belong in wilderness
areas is misleading and ecologically harmful. Despite romantic claims, today’s feral horses are not native wildlife but are descendants of domestic horses brought by Europeans. Native wild horses have been absent from North American ecosystems for over 10,000 years. Ecosystems have since evolved without them.
Claims that they control wildfire fuels ignore a critical fact: Feral horses have no natural predators, and their populations grow unchecked. Unlike strategically managed livestock, wild horse herds cannot be moved or regulated by timing or intensity. They often overgraze and damage native grasses, trample wetlands, and degrade critical wildlife habitat.
Far from reducing fire risk, this unmanaged grazing can make landscapes more vulnerable. Overgrazing invites invasive plants like cheatgrass, which dries early and fuels more frequent, intense wildfires. Studies show feral horses also outcompete native species such as pronghorn and bighorn sheep for scarce water and forage, especially during drought.
Placing horses into protected wilderness areas—home to sensitive plant and animal species—is irresponsible. These landscapes are supposed to remain as undisturbed as possible, not serve as dumping grounds for undesirable and unwanted animals.
Yes, we should treat horses humanely. But turning them loose into fragile ecosystems is not conservation—it’s mismanagement. Real wildfire mitigation requires science-based strategies— prescribed burns, invasive species control, and targeted grazing—not introducing unregulated feral grazers.
Let’s respect the difference between wild mythology and ecological reality.
Nathan Kettner
Response from columnist Janet Sellers
Q: Are wild horses non-native?
A: They are reintroduced natives. Horses evolved in North America but went extinct about 10,000 years ago. Modern wild horses fill that old ecological niche. Some debate this, noting changes since then, but advocates see them as a restored keystone herbivore.
Q: Do they outcompete wildlife like pronghorns or bighorn sheep?
A: No. In fact, they can help ecosystems. At Anza Borrego NP, bighorn sheep deaths spiked after horses were
removed—mountain lions turned to sheep instead. Scientists note livestock, not horses, cause most rangeland damage. Livestock numbers are far higher and have heavier impacts.
Q: Do they overgraze and raise wildfire risk?
A: No. Horses roam widely, spreading out their grazing. This mobility prevents overuse and allows plants to recover. Even at fence lines, horsegrazed areas often show 30% more native grasses than cattle-grazed areas.
Q: Isn’t wildfire control better achieved with prescribed burns, invasive species control, and targeted grazing?
A: In wilderness, burns and machines are not allowed. Here, wild horses act as natural fire managers. They eat flammable grasses and brush, lowering fire risk. A single horse can clear about 5.5 tons of fuel a year—the equivalent of reducing 5–7 acres of wildfire-prone vegetation.
A proven advocate for our students, educators, and schools: Vote for Jackie!
As the school board election approaches this November, I’m writing to express my enthusiastic support for my friend, Jackie Burhans, a highly qualified and passionate candidate who has dedicated years of her time, energy, and expertise to improving public education in our community.
I’ve known Jackie and her family since the early 2000s, and I can confidently say there are few individuals more committed to the success and well-being of our students, educators, and administrators. With a strong background in business, volunteering in public education/service, and community organizing, Jackie brings both knowledge and heart to every decision and discussion.
What sets Jackie apart is not just her impressive qualifications and consistent commitment but her ability to truly listen and learn. Whether it’s parents, teachers, students, admins, or board members, she takes the time to understand concerns and seek thoughtful, balanced solutions. Jackie believes that every child deserves access to a top-notch education and that schools should be safe, inclusive spaces that foster academic, artistic, athletic, and personal growth.
Our district and school board need strong leaders who are very well informed, engaged, highly competent, and ready to roll up their sleeves—
and that’s exactly what Jackie will do. I urge voters to support Jackie Burhans this November and help ensure our schools and district have the leadership they deserve.
Gabriele Lacrampe
Monument Hill Kiwanis awards grant to Quilts of Valor
The Monument Hill Kiwanis Club Board of Directors recently awarded a grant of $500 to the Colorado Springs Quilts of Valor group. The Quilt of Valor Foundation has chapters throughout the county. The group’s mission is to honor service members and veterans who have been touched by war with a comforting and healing Quilt of Valor.
A Quilt of Valor is a quality, handmade quilt that is machine or hand-quilted. It is awarded to a service member or veteran who has been touched by war. The quilt says unequivocally, “Thank you for your service and sacrifice in serving our nation.”
With the support of the Monument Hill Kiwanis, our local chapter will continue to be able to construct quilts to be awarded to nominees. We gratefully appreciate the Kiwanis’ generosity as we continue to award comforting and healing quilts.
Ann Przybylski Group Leader
Vote for D38 school board
D38 Board of Education directors will be elected this November. Your money will ultimately be spent based upon their direction. More importantly, student safety and educational quality depend on your voice, and the D38 Directors are the keys to our community
school district future. We The People form the basis of our nation. We The People are entitled to direct our children’s education. Ultimately, We The People direct our community education through the D38 School District directors. Let them hear your voice and vote this November.
Gordon Reichal
Ginger Schaaf for D38 school board
My name is Ginger Schaaf, and I am announcing my candidacy for the D38 Board of Education District 3 position. My family joined the Monument community two years ago after nearly 20 years of moving for my husband’s military career. We have two children in the D38 school system and have been extremely satisfied with the education and programs made available to them. I have been fortunate to have a professional career with the same company during the past 12 years of our final military moves, involving a combination of in-person and remote work. I am now happy to be back to working in-person and look forward to contributing to my community.
Our family chose D38 because of its established standards of excellence. I was raised by an educator who had a passion for teaching. Throughout our military moves, we have experienced a variety of school districts. I hope to use these perspectives to benefit the community.
I would appreciate your support on Nov. 4.
Ginger Schaaf
Mailman; My Wild Ride Delivering the Mail in Appalachia and Finally Finding Home By Stephen Starring Grant (Simon & Schuster) $29.99
Steve Grant was laid off in March 2020. Fifty years old and diagnosed with cancer, he needed health insurance, fast. Which is how he found himself working
as a rural letter carrier in Virginia’s Blue Ridge Mountains, back in his old hometown. Along with the daily mail, he carried a family legacy of rage and his own anxiety over having lost his corporate job.
Yet slowly he changed; eventually, the Post Office saved his life, renewed his acquaintance with his home community, and gave him a new sense of purpose. Culpability
By Bruce Holsinger (Spiegel & Grau) $30 What does it mean to be responsible in
a world shaped by systems we no longer fully control? Part family drama, part techno-thriller, this riveting novel traces the moral fallout of a self-driving car crash (with a teenage boy behind the wheel) through the lens of a fractured family. A thought-provoking novel, Culpability combines social commentary about important, timely issues with moving insights about family dynamics.
My Friends
By Fredrick Bachman (Atria Books)
$29.99
Humor, grief, and eternal loyalty come together in Bachman’s tribute to youthful friendship, imagination, and faith in art’s power to heal and nurture. Louisa, an aspiring artist who is homeless, is one of the few people who sees the three tiny figures down in the corner of one of the world’s most famous paintings and is determined to find out the story behind the picture.
The Stolen Life of Colette Marceau By Kristen Harmel (Gallery Books)
$28.99
Colette Marceau has been stealing jewels for as long as she can remember, following her code of honor: Take only from the cruel and unkind, and give to those in need. This family tradition was important during the Second World War, when Annabel and Colette’s sales of the stolen jewels helped fund the French Underground. Decades later, a stolen bracelet turns up in a Boston Museum. If Colette can discover where the bracelet has been all this time, she might be able to find out what happened to her sister.
The Aviator and the Showman; Amelia Earhart, George Putnam, and the Marriage that Made an American Icon
By Laurie Gwen Shapiro (Viking) $35
Earhart is a captivating figure to many, but the truth about her life is often overshadowed by myth and legend. In this cinematic new account, Shapiro empha-
sizes Earhart’s multifaceted human side, her struggles, and her aspirations, the truths behind her brave pursuits, and the compromises she made to fit into societal expectations. The Aviator and the Showman is a gripping and passionate tale of adventure, colorful characters, hubris, and a complex portrait of a marriage that shaped the trajectory of an iconic life.
Something to Look Forward to
By Fannie Flagg (Random House) $29
Fannie Flagg once said that what the world needs now is a good laugh. And that is what she delivers in these 30 warmhearted, often hilarious, always surprising stories about Americans finding clever ways of dealing with the curveballs life throws at us
The Compound
By Aisling Rawle (Random House) $29
Lily—a bored, beautiful 20-something— wakes up on a remote desert compound alongside 19 other contestants compet-
September Library Events
ing on a massively popular reality show.
To win, she must outlast her housemates to stay in the compound the longest, while competing in challenges for luxury rewards. When the unseen producers raise the stakes, forcing contestants into upsetting, even dangerous situations, the line between playing the game and surviving it begins to blur.
The Art Spy By Michelle Young (Harper One) $29.99
A riveting saga set in Paris during World War II, The Art Spy tells the story of how an unlikely heroine infiltrated the Nazi leadership to save the world’s most treasured masterpieces. On Aug. 25, 1944, Rose Valland watched desperately from the windows of her beloved Jeu De Paume museum as the battle to liberate Paris thundered around her.
Until next month, happy reading. The staff at Covered Treasures can be reached at books@ocn.me.
Book clubs, Art for Older Adults, Palmer Lake concert
By Harriet Halbig
The school year began at the Monument Library with an Early Literacy Night co-sponsored by the Lewis-Palmer School District to introduce families with children entering preschool to connect with educators and library staff for a night of play, learning, and resources. This event was held on Sep. 4.
Recurring events at the Monument Library include:
• Storytime every Tuesday from 10:30 to 11 a.m. for children ages 3 to 7 with a parent or caregiver.
• Socrates Café, an adult discussion group meeting from 1 to 3 p.m. on Tuesdays to discuss a variety of topics.
• Paws to Read every Tuesday from 4 to 5 p.m. Practice reading aloud and improve fluency by sharing a story with one of our lovable volunteer therapy dogs.
• Toddler Time every Wednesday
By Steve Pate
Eight years ago, Sept. 15, 2017, Tim Watkins was shot and killed while riding his mountain bike in one of his favorite areas near Mount Herman and Limbaugh Canyon. On Sept. 13, the annual “Ride for Tim” memorial riders and others will meet at 1 p.m. at the Tim Watkins Memorial, 66 N. Glenway, Palmer Lake, near the Palmer Lake library.
Everyone is welcome to participate in the social time at 300 Days of Shine, 279 Beacon Lite Rd. in Monument to share memories of the well-liked member of the mountain biking community who helped establish and maintain trails in the area. That gathering will start around 3 p.m.
Friends of Watkins may wish to ride the trail of their choice, the Tim Watkins Memorial Trail in the Monument Preserve (north of Mount Herman Road), Limbaugh Canyon, Mount Herman, or the Santa Fe Trail—all of which were familiar to Watkins.
El Paso County Sheriff’s Office investigator Jennifer Bucholtz will be
from 9:30 to 10 and 10:30 to 11.
Songs, rhymes, stories, and fun for toddlers ages 1 to 2 with a parent or caregiver. Space is limited Come to the library from 1 to 2 p.m. on Thu., Sep. 18, for Art for Older Adults This program inspires a sense of selfreliance in older adults, even when the participant is somewhat reliant on a partner to help with materials use. Each month, seniors can produce high-quality art projects that respect their life experiences, skills, and capacity to create. All supplies are provided. Registration is required at ppld.org, events and happenings, choose the branch, access the calendar and click on the event to register. Or call 719-488-2370.
The Third Friday Friends of Pikes Peak Library District Book Group will meet on Fri., Sep. 19 from 10:30 to 12:30 to discuss The Sandcastle Girls by Chris Bohjalian. All are welcome to attend.
The Teen Dungeons and Dragons
group will meet from 4 to 5:45 on Sat., Sep. 20. New players and veterans ages 13 to 18 are welcome to attend. Space is limited to eight participants. Registration is required at 719-488-2370.
Have you ever seen tie-dye on a black T-shirt? Join us from 4 to 5 p.m. on Thu., Sep. 25 to learn reverse tiedye techniques while creating a colorful graffiti-inspired T-shirt to take home or as a gift. A single black shirt (sizes SXXL) will be provided for each participant while supplies last. This program is open to patrons ages 13 to 18, and registration is required at 719-488-2370.
Homeschool patrons ages 7 to 12 are invited to Explore Owl Pellets on Fri., Sep. 26 from 2 to 3 p.m. Join us for owl pellet dissection and explore the fascinating life of this bird of prey through hands-on experiences. Root out and reconstruct an owl’s meal to identify its victims.
The Tween Dungeons and Dragons group will meet from 4 to 5:30 on Sat.,
On the Trail (in memory of Tim Watkins) Ride for Tim scheduled for Sept. 13
available at the Ride for Tim. Communities often have ideas that may help solve difficult cases like this. If you have information or ideas that may help solve
Oct. 4. New members are always welcome and no experience is required. This group is open to patrons ages 9 to 12, and registration is required at 719488-2370.
The Palmer Lake Library Summer Concert Series continues with a concert by Ricky Sweum from 6 to 7 p.m. Fri., Sep. 12 at the Palmer Lake Village Green behind the Palmer Lake Library. This second concert of the series features the music of Sweum, an awardwinning musician, composer, educator, and music producer known for many things, including jazz performances. Everyone is welcome. Bring lawn chairs or blankets to enjoy this concert. In the event of inclement weather, the concert may either be relocated to the Palmer Lake Town Hall or cancelled. Harriet Halbig may be reached at harriethalbig@ocn.me.
this unsolved murder, please come to this event and share your ideas or call Bucholtz at 719-520-7227 or email her at JenniferBucholtz@ElPasoCo.com.
Fall and the forest: creating soil beds and a blue spruce kitchen treat
By Janet Sellers Forest living needs
kitchen-made soil
Our local soil has created itself over millions of years for optimal forest growth. We can thank Mother Nature for creating our wonderful natural areas, and it’s our job to take good care of them. When we want to make a garden bed for outside plants, such as familiar foodstuffs, we need to prepare the soil for growing those specific plants. We don’t take the entire landscape to do this, we can actually make kitchen soil outdoors in a barrel, a cardboard box, or a specific place as the garden bed.
To make kitchen garden soil from compost, keep it all contained to control the compost. Making it in a garden bed in layers and topping off with a very thick (8-10 inches) layer of multisize wood mulch is another method, and these methods should produce soil ready for planting by spring. For the tub method, use a food-grade tub or larger vessel. Drill pea-size oxygen holes on the sides and golf ball-size earthworm holes on the bottom. Layers: 1/1/1 layers like lasagna, so use a proportion of
1 carbon: brown/leaves/needles, 1 dirt/ soil from the ground, 1 nitrogen (colors/veggies/fruits/kitchen, and cap it off with carbon. The speed of soil-making depends on the weather, and watering when needed keeps the compost at work making soil.
Spruce gum
Blue spruce resin has been used historically to make chewing gum. Some caution is advised: Be very careful if you have dental work to watch out for, as fresh resin can be sticky and may require some patience to chew. It’s made by harvesting the resin from the tree, often from areas where the tree has been damaged or naturally produces sap, and then chewing it after it hardens. While some find the initial texture brittle, it softens with chewing and can be a pleasant, long-lasting gum.
Look for organic, toxin-free (no pesticides, etc.) areas of spruce trees, gently harvest the resin by hand or with a small knife, carefully removing it from the tree. Likely to be hard and brittle at first, it will eventually become pliable. Spruce resin has a long history of medicinal use, including antimicrobial, an-
ti-inflammatory, and antioxidant properties, relieving sore throats and other ailments. Many find the taste pleasant. It’s always a good idea to research and understand any potential risks or aller-
Steve Pate may be contacted at stevepate@ocn.me.
Above: Tim Watkins. Courtesy of Vickey Meeker.
Above: Tim Watkins Memorial Trail in the Monument Preserve.
Photo by Vickey Meeker.
gies associated with chewing tree resin. Janet Sellers is an avid “lazy gardener,” letting Mother Nature lead the way for earthwise gardens. Send your tips to JanetSellers@ocn.me.
High Altitude Nature and Gardens
Above: The Tri-Lakes Cares food garden was thriving by the end of summer, with tomatoes and squashes coming on, and plenty of lettuce, kale, onion, and other seeds ready to harvest for fall seeding. The squashes were planted in the greenhouse to ensure a frost-free harvest in September or October. Photo by Janet Sellers.
By Janet Sellers
“Drawing helps you see what you cannot imagine and imagine what you cannot see.”—Richard
T. Scott, American painter and writer
Making art, particularly in a group setting, fosters creativity and social connection by providing a safe space for expression, sharing diverse perspectives, and building a sense of community. This dynamic process allows participants to overcome creative blocks and feel more connected to others. Also, drawing and art-making is just plain fun, especially in the case of a class with a supportive and creative teacher. Our creative inspirations, when supported, offer us immeasurable feelings of well-being and upliftment.
Tech companies like Google use art in the workplace as a “transformative vehicle” to encourage creative thinking and foster conversation among employees. By featuring vibrant and innovative
artistic expressions in its physical spaces, Google mirrors the cutting-edge, forward-thinking nature of its technology.
Google actively seeks out wellrounded individuals who can offer creative skills and fresh perspectives beyond just technical expertise. This is part of the company’s hiring philosophy, which values “Googleyness”—traits like creativity, collaboration, and adaptability—just as highly as it does raw technical skills.
In addition to technical and rolespecific knowledge, Google assesses candidates for “Googleyness” or cultural fit. This includes personal qualities like intellectual curiosity, creativity, and the ability to work in a collaborative and ambiguous environment. These are lifeenriching qualities that drawing and artmaking by hand, especially in a group setting such as an art class, help to develop.
Visual perception (sight) is the most
Snapshots
Above: On July 27, nearly 100 residents gathered at the Woodmoor Community Center (the Barn) to discuss next steps following the Town of Palmer Lake’s July 25 release of a draft annexation agreement for the proposed Buc-ee’s Travel Center. Speakers emphasized key upcoming dates: the Planning Commission meeting on Aug. 20, which was continued to Sept. 3; the Board of Trustees annexation vote postponed from Aug. 28 to Oct. 2; and a pivotal special election on Sept. 9 to recall and replace Trustees Kevin Dreher and Shana Ball with two of three candidates—Beth Harris, John Marble, and Roger Mosely. It also features a citizenled ballot initiative that, if passed, would require all future annexations—including Buc-ee’s—to go to a public vote. The annexation proposal has drawn statewide attention. U.S. Sen. Michael Bennet recently voiced opposition, calling the plan a “flagpole annexation” that threatens open space, water resources, and Colorado’s conservation legacy. Photo by Jackie Burhans.
for
of Colorado Palisades peaches. Every year,
delivered 976 boxes full of
Manager Liam Wynne, and Kathy Strom (back to camera) appear to be enjoying the experience. Photo by Warren Gerig.
Above: From left, Vice President John Hildebrandt, Treasurer Tom Kelly, Bookkeeper Jenny Bilbrey, Secretary Duane Garrett, Director of Administration Jennifer Martin, Lt. Curt Leonhardt, Battalion Chiefs Shannon Balvanz, Kris Mola, and Scott Ridings, Fire Chief Andy Kovacs, Division Chief of Community Risk Reduction Jonathan Bradley, Division Chief of Administration Jamey Bumgarner, Executive Battalion Chief Janaka Branden, Engineer Christian Schmidt, President Mark Gunderman, Firefighter/Paramedic Jeremy Furman, and Mike Barakay, lead member of the peer assessment team that referred Monument Fire District (MFD) for accreditation, at the Westin Hotel, Denver International Airport on Aug. 5. The group gathered for a hearing before receiving the accreditation award from the Commission on Fire Accreditation International (CFAI) for meeting the criteria established through the CFAI’s voluntary self-assessment and accreditation program. MFD is one of only 300 agencies to achieve International Accredited Agency status with the CFAI and the Center for Public Safety Excellence Inc. (CPSE). CFAI is dedicated to assisting fire and emergency service agencies worldwide in achieving excellence through self-assessment and accreditation, providing continuous quality improvement, and enhancing service delivery to their communities. Kovacs stated that the agency’s achievement of Accredited Agency status “demonstrates the commitment of the agency to provide the highest quality of service to our community.” Kovacs also said, “We have also been able to use the Commission on Fire Accreditation International’s process as a proactive mechanism to plan for the future of this agency and locate areas where we can improve on the quality of the services we provide.” Kovacs confirmed the accreditation process took about three years to complete and cost $21,787. Photo courtesy of MFD.
obvious sense used for drawing, but artists do more than just see. They also interpret and organize visual information to translate it onto paper. Drawing develops observational skills. Drawing improves a person’s ability to notice and concentrate on fine details, such as subtleties in light, shadow, shape, and color. For memory encoding, drawing an object while visually inspecting it creates a more “context-rich” representation in the brain, integrating pictorial information with the motor actions needed to draw it. In today’s world, we need creative visualization to succeed.
For drawing from imagination, the brain must first create a mental image of the subject. We can proceed from fun scribbles and even determine visual meaning with imagination. Often, doodling helps us free up our creative centers for problem-solving.
Drawing and art help designers, scientists, and, of course, artists bring their
imagination to a physical form. Our ideas stay in our head until we put them into a physical form and manifest them. The physical act of drawing, particularly with, say, charcoal or graphite but also with a pen, creates a neurological connection that uses not only the mind but the hands, the eyes, and more. Drawing relies on a multisensory and whole-brain effort, engaging the visual system, tactile senses, and internal awareness of the body’s position in space. Neurologically, this complex activity activates a network of brain regions, including the visual cortex, motor cortex, and areas responsible for memory and problem-solving.
Janet Sellers is an artist, writer, and speaker, offering talks, workshops, and art in public places for museums, communities, and institutional talks and exhibitions. Contact Janet at JanetSellers@OCN.me.
Kerrie
and
An acoustic version of Ashtōnz
provided music to wrap up the
The event, which might become an annual
in Palmer Lake, provided vendors and entertainment. The afternoon had been rainy and chilly, but the Ashtōnz were enjoyed by those who attended. Photo by
Connor Parker is positioned behind the wheel of the district’s latest ambulance as Monument Fire District firefighters assist with the timehonored tradition of “pushing-in” the engine, at the Station 4 bay, on Aug. 8. The district ambulances get the most wear and tear responding to incidents and local area hospitals, and the apparatus is one of two ambulances scheduled to replace the older ambulances this year. The ceremony is a symbolic gesture to the time when firefighters pushed in horse-drawn steamer engines. After fighting the fire, crews would ready the horses in the stable for the next call, but because horses will not walk backward when they are under load, crews would push the apparatus back into the narrow station bay. The time-honored tradition continues nationwide whenever a department is lucky to receive new apparatus. Several board directors and a few residents also attended the event. Photo By Natalie Barszcz.
Caption Correction
In the Aug. 2 issue of Our Community News, we reported that Tommie Plank donated 32% of her sales at Covered Treasures Bookstore to mark the 32nd anniversary of the store. Plank actually donated 32% of her net sales. OCN regrets the error.
Above: The annual Chautauqua at Palmer Lake, held July through Aug. 3, offered a myriad of cultural events including presentations, daily yoga practice, live music, cultural workshops, theater, and more. Here, poets and enthusiasts shared original poetry and classical Shakespeare sonnets at the Palmer Lake Village Green. Artists enjoyed a plein air workshop at the lake after the plein air painting competition.
Photo by Janet Sellers. Below:
with Charlie Searle,
Paige,
Nathan Gillis
Chautauqua festival in Palmer Lake Park.
festival
Patt Kupka.
Above: Firefighter
Above: Monument Hill Kiwanis Club raised $10,439
community projects last month. The money came from sales
the club sells peaches to raise money. This year, they
them on Aug. 2. From left, Ed Tomlinson, Bob Eskridge, Greg Bielinski, Jack Fry, Assistant Project
Above: From left, Lt. Keith Barker of Monument Fire District’s Station 4 “C” Shift, residents Connor Johnston and Lucian Fiorito, and firefighter Connor Parker participate in the annual National Neighborhood Night Out event at the Little Train Park in Promontory Pointe on Aug. 9. The Promontory Pointe Homeowners Association board members hosted the annual picnic for about 80 guests, to thank local first responders from Monument Police Department, El Paso County Sheriff’s Office, and Monument Fire Department for providing a safe neighborhood. Participants were served food from Arlene’s Beans and Lolley’s Ice Cream of Monument. Photo by Natalie Barszcz.
Annual GCA Picnic, Aug. 16
Above: On Aug. 16, the Gleneagle Civic Association (GCA) held its annual picnic at the Pauma Valley pavilion. GCA board members, from left, are Glenn Leimbach, Steve Kouri, Jeff McLemore (in rear), Jimmy Owenby, and Mark Connell hosted the event with over 200 community members attending throughout the afternoon. Attendees enjoyed a variety of barbecue meats and potluck dishes, along with music, bounce houses for the children, a raffle, and community fellowship. Connell expressed great appreciation to all the businesses that provided generous support for the raffle. Over 50 businesses contributed items, including a barbecue grill, various merchandise, and a variety of meal gift cards from area restaurants. Photo by David Futey.
New Activity Center Opens, Aug. 20
Above: Monument Community Presbyterian Church might not be the permanent location for the senior center that just had its ribbon-cutting on Aug. 20. President and CEO of Silver Key Senior Services Jason DeaBueno told the huge crowd that Classic Homes has pledged to donate about 2 acres of land on Jackson Creek Parkway between the YMCA and Whataburger for an all-ages community center. He says the donation is contingent on $13 million-$17 million being raised for construction. The first clue that the center, which moved from Grace Best Education Center, might not eventually be just for seniors came with the new name, Silver Key Tri-Lakes Activity Center. Marketing and Communications Manager Angela McGuire says more than 40 volunteers helped make the move from Grace Best, where the center had been for about three years. Caption by Michael Weinfeld. Photo by Steve Pate.
Above: Monument Hill Foundation, the funding arm of the Monument Hill Kiwanis Club, awarded five scholarships totaling $10,000 this year. The scholarships went to Jay Olgren, Eden Ortega, Hayden Fields, Tasniem Ben Saud, and David Schultz. Olgren will study zoology, Ortega will study construction management, and Fields is enrolled in a Certified Nurse’s Assistant Program. Ben Saud will be studying psychology, and Shultz will major in law enforcement. Field’s sister Kaylie is a past recipient. She used her scholarship to earn her associate’s degree in criminology and is now pursuing her B.A. From left are Olgren, Ortega, Kaylie Fields and her sister Hayden. Kiwanian Ted Bauman is in the rear. Photo by Warren Gerig.
Station 2 ribbon-cutting, Aug. 9
TL Cruisers 22nd Annual Car Show
Street in
and
hosted its 22nd annual benefit car show,
downtown Monument with vehicles including
Visitors enjoyed music, vendors, and prizes in the
Park near the D38 administration building known as “Big
Proceeds support Tri-Lakes Cares, which provides food, financial, medical, and transportation assistance to neighbors in need. Tri-Lakes Cruisers welcomes members from across the region with all types of vehicles—foreign or domestic, restored or daily drivers. Learn more at trilakescruisers.com and tri-lakescares.org.
Hummingbird Festival, Aug. 22-23
Above: On Aug. 22-23, visitors to the Hummingbird Festival at the historic Jackson Ranch observed the friendly alpacas, vendors, hummingbird talks and viewed the hummingbirds at the feeders and in pine trees overhead. Many visitors wanted tips and information about hummingbirds and how to attract them to their gardens. Some attendees reported they had hundreds of birds this year, while others reported a decline in bird visits. One visitor shared videos of the hundreds of birds that visit his garden, drinking over 2 gallons of prepared nectar a day. The Tri-Lakes region is home to the broad-tailed hummingbird all season and is an extended stopover site for the orange rufous hummingbird. Infrequent to our area of the four Colorado hummingbirds are calliope hummingbirds, preferring higher elevations at 8,500 feet, and the black-chinned preferring elevations below 6,000 feet. Photo by Janet Sellers.
Concert, Aug. 29
Girl Scout Julia Zettlemoyer has earned a Gold Award for building a dog park at Trinity Community Park (TCP) in Monument. Fewer than 6% of Girl Scouts nationwide qualify for the Gold Award. Julia spent eight months planning and building the project. Junior Girl Scouts from Troop 44179 helped her build the park and clean up after earning a Bronze Award for their efforts. The dog park will be formally celebrated on Sept. 21 from 11 a.m. to 1 p.m. In photo, TCP Executive Director Tamara Schwarz is with Zettlemoyer and Chocolate the dog. Photo by Mayra Zettlemoyer.
Right: On Aug. 29, the Pikes Peak Library District launched its free summer concert series at the Palmer Lake Village Green & Gazebo, next to the Palmer Lake Library. The featured performers, Peak Big Band, brought big band classics and rock favorites— including Duke Ellington and Guns N’ Roses—but moved indoors to Palmer Lake’s historic Town Hall due to rain. Among the musicians were two former D38 talents: former Palmer Ridge High School (PRHS) band director Butch Eversole and a 2024 PRHS graduate. Despite the weather, attendees made the most of the evening—some sat inside, others on the porch or under trees, enjoying the music and dancing in the rain. Two more concerts are scheduled for Sept. 5 and 12, from 6-7 p.m., free to all. Details available at https://ppld.org/ palmer-lake-library-concert-series-2025. Photo by Jackie Burhans.
Right:
Above: From left, Tri-Lakes Chamber of Commerce Ambassador Andrea Van Note, President Mark Gunderman, Division Chief of Administration Jamey Bumgarner (cutting the ribbon), Fire Chief Andy Kovacs, and Chamber Ambassador Sandy Shook are pictured at the Monument Fire District Station 2 remodel ribbon-cutting on Aug. 9. Pictured rear from left: Director Tim De Leon, Battalion Chief Kris Mola, Monument Town Manager Madeline VanDenHoek, and Treasurer Tom Kelly. The station remodel project, costing $1.719 million, was designed by OZ Architecture, with Flintco Inc. completing the remodel and John Sattler of NV5 Inc. providing the owner’s representative services for the district. Photo courtesy of MFD.
Above: Palmer Lake Elementary celebrated its new preschool program on Aug. 12 with a ribbon-cutting ceremony and the opening of a new playground. Funding for the playground was provided by School District 38. The Monument Hill Kiwanis Club has paid for additional playground equipment. Information provided by Tyler Dumas. Photo by D38 Social Media Specialist Stephanie Gonzalez.
Above: On Aug. 17, Tri-Lakes Cruisers
lining Second
historic
vintage classics
hot rods.
Betty Konarski Sculpture
Red.”
Photo by Jackie Burhans
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. 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, making cultural experiences more accessible. Presenting your EBT card at partici-
By Janet Sellers
Although we strive for accuracy in these listings, dates or times are often changed after publication. Please double-check the time and place of any event you wish to attend by calling the info number for that event. Please contact calendar@ocn.me with changes and additions.
GOVERNMENTAL BODIES
Academy Water and Sanitation District board meeting, Wed., Sep. 17, 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) 719325-9039, http://www.academywsdco.gov/
• Black Forest Fire/Rescue Protection District board meeting in person or via Zoom, Wed., Sep. 17, 7 pm. Usually meets third Wed. Visit http://www.bffire.org for updates and the agenda listing the Zoom joining codes or contact 719-4944300.
Donala Water & Sanitation District board meeting Thu., Sep. 18, 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., Sep. 4 & 18 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-communitydevelopment/2025-hearings-schedule/ El Paso County Regional Loop Water Authority meeting, Thu., Sep. 18, 9 am, Monument Town Hall Boardroom, 645 Beacon Lite Rd. Normally meets third Thu. Info: 719-4883603. 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., Sep. 15, 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.
Our Community Notices
pating 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
For the first semester of 2025-26 school year, the Lewis Palmer school district will provide no-cost 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 for which it qualifies. These funds go directly to schools to help cover the cost of meals and support after school activities and other nutritional programs for students.
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 nocost, 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.
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 community-based, volunteer-supported center is a critical resource for our neighbors in need.
Our Community Calendar
org.
• Lewis-Palmer School District 38 Parent and Community Advisory Committee meeting (now PCAC, formerly DAAC), Tue., Sep. 9. Meets six times a year, second Tue, The Learning Center, in Big Red (LPSD38 admin bldg), 146 Jefferson St. Info: tmckee@lewispalmer.org. Monument Academy School Board meeting, Thu. Sep. 11, 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., Sep. 24, 4:30 pm, Station 1, 18650 Highway 105. For up-to-date meeting information, visit www.monumentfire.org for updates and the agenda listing the Microsoft Teams joining codes, or contact 719-488-0911. Monument Planning Commission meeting, Wed., Sep. 10, 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-ofAdjustment. Info: 719-884-8028. www.townofmonument.org. Monument Sanitation District board meeting, Wed., Sep. 17, 9 am, 130 Second St. Zoom meeting. Find joining instructions on the website. Meets third Wed. Info: 719-4814886, https://www.monumentsanitationdistrict.org/ Monument Town Council meeting, Tue., Sep. 2 & Mon., Sep. 15, 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/Boardof-Trustees for remote attendance links.
• Palmer Lake Board of Adjustments meeting, Tue., Sep. 2, 5 pm, 28 Valley Crescent St., Palmer Lake. Normally meets first Tue., as needed. Palmer Lake Board of Trustees meeting, Thu., Sep. 4 & 18, 6 pm, Palmer Lake Town Hall, 28 Valley Crescent. Usually meets second and fourth Thu. Info: 719-481-2953. www. townofpalmerlake.com.
• Palmer Lake Sanitation District board meeting, Wed., Sep. 10, 9 am, call-in only: 650-479-3208, Access Code 76439078, 120 Middle Glenway. Meets second Wed. Info: 719481-2732. www.plsd.org. Palmer Lake Planning Commission meeting, Wed., Sep. 17, 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., Sep. 9, 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., Sep. 18, 5:30 pm, 16055 Old Forest Point, Suite 302, Monument. Usually meets third Thu. Visit www.triviewmetro.com for updates and the agenda listing the Zoom joining codes, or contact 719-488-6868. Village Center Metropolitan District Board Meeting Tue., Sep. 16, 4 pm, Serranos Coffee Shop, Normally meets on
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. Can you volunteer today?
• Links to local organizations with an immediate need for volunteers are listed on the county’s website, www.elpasocountyhealth.org/volunteeringand-donations, for groups like Care and Share, Crossfire Ministries, blood donations, Early Connections (volunteer from home opportunity), foster an animal, Medical Reserve Corps of El Paso County, Salvation Army, Silver Key, and United Way (ongoing opportunities).
• The Colorado State University Extension office in El Paso County has several opportunities for individuals interested in volunteering. https://elpaso. extension.colostate.edu/volunteer-opportunities/
• El Paso County volunteer-based and nonprofit organizations rely on the hard work of individuals like you. Find out how you can play a part by becoming a volunteer in El Paso County. Get involved in El Paso County volunteering non-profits and organizations! https://www.americantowns. com/el-paso-county-co/volunteer-organizations/.
• The El Paso County Sheriff’s Office Volunteer Program is composed of a collective citizens group with a true and common desire to partner with the El Paso County Sheriff’s Office by volunteering their services while learning more about the internal workings of the law enforcement community. https://www.epcsheriffsoffice.com/volunteer-program-0.
• The El Paso County Volunteer Program is a wonderful opportunity for citizens to learn about the various functions of county government as well as give back to the community. The County’s numerous boards and commissions need your experience, talents and time. https://bocc.elpasoco. com/volunteer.
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., Sep. 24, 7 pm, Woodmoor Barn, 1691 Woodmoor Dr. Usually meets fourth Wed. Info: 719-488-2693, www. woodmoor.org.
• Woodmoor Water & Sanitation District board meeting, Mon., Sep. 8, 1 pm, 1845 Woodmoor Dr., Monument. Normally meets second Mon. Info: 719-488-2525, www.woodmoorwater.com.
WEEKLY & MONTHLY EVENTS
• AARP Black Forest #1100, second Wed., noon. In-person Black Forest Lutheran Church, 12455 Black Forest Rd. All ages welcome. Info: www.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.
• Children’s Literacy Center, every Mon. & Wed., Sep. 8–Dec. 10. 4–5 pm. Woodmen Valley Chapel, Monument Campus,1681 Wagon Bow Way, Monument, CO 80132. Provides free one-on-one literacy tutoring to Tri-Lakes children in grades 1-6 who are reading below grade level. For more information, to become a volunteer tutor, or to enroll your child, visit www.childrensliteracycenter.org.
• 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., 9:4511:15 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. May-Sep. 6-8 pm. Apr. & Oct. 5–7 pm; details: www.fomp.org. Water, gloves, work attire required.
• Friends of Fox Run Park , Zoom meeting, fourth Thu., 7 pm. Join the growing group volunteering at the park: forest safety, trails, trees, education, special events, more; stay tuned! Email friendsoffoxrunpark@gmail.com. We will email you the link the day of the meeting.
• Fuel Church (now H2O Tri-Lakes) 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 Nondenominational, 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 520-205-0578.
• Lions Club Bingo, every Sat. (except the first Sat.), 8:30 am-1 pm and first Mon., 5:30-10 pm Tri-Lakes Lions Club’s portion of the proceeds benefit those in need in the Tri-Lakes community. Updated info and location: Jim Naylor, 719-4818741 or www.trilakeslionsclub.org.
• Monument Hill Kiwanis Club meeting, every Sat., 8 am. www.MHKiwanis.org, MonumentHillKiwanis@gmail. com for details, guests are welcome. Service leadership clubs, Key clubs, Builders Club, and K-kids at D38 schools. Memberships are open to the public. Info: RF Smith, 719-210-4987, www.MHKiwanis.org. See ad on page 10.
• Monument Homemakers, bring a dish to share and your own table service, meet at Chamber of Commerce building, noon. 166 2nd St. Monument. Info and more about the club: Linda Case, 719-354-6575 for reservations.
• Monument Life Recovery Group, every Mon., 6:30-7:30 pm, The Ascent Church, 1750 Deer Creek Rd. This faith-based support group is for those seeking freedom from all hurts, habits, and hang-ups. Daycare for children under age 11. Info: www.liferecoverygroups.com/meetings/life-recoverygroup-3/
• Monumental Impact Open House, first Sat., 3-5 pm, NEW ADDRESS: 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, second Sat., 9:30 am. 300 Hwy 105, NE corner of I-25 and 105. For art programs, social gathering and business meetings. Guests welcome. Info: 719-4604179, 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, 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 www.palmerdividehistory.org.
• Pikes Peak Genealogical Society Zoom meeting, second Wed., 6:30pm: Zoom hangout. 7 pm, meeting starts. Monthly special speaker programs. For zoom meeting details contact: president@ppgs.org. Info: www.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
• Silver Key Senior Center, currently located at the Monument Community Presbyterian Church, 238 3rd St, Monument.
• Speed Puzzle Event , first Tue., second Mon., and third Mon. Trinity Lutheran Church location, 2 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.
• 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, 719-4882669; 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. 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. AlAnon 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., Sep. 4 & Oct. 2, 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.
• 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.
• 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 Special Election , Tue., Sep. 9, decides recall of two trustees and a ballot measure requiring voter approval of annexations.
• Checkered table talks, monthly speaker series. Thu., Sep. 11, doors open 5 pm, program 5:30-6:30 pm, Woodmoor Barn Community Center, 1691 Woodmoor Dr, Monument. Tickets: $10 per person: on-line & at the door (based on space availability). Speaker: Jon Macaskill, retired Navy SEAL, speaks on foundation of powerful leadership and mindfulness. Bring your own picnic, (prize for best picnic). Info: call 719-4408969.
• Ride for Tim memorial honor ride , Sat., Sep. 13, meet at the Tim Watkins Memorial near Palmer Lake Library, 1pm, social gathering at 3 pm at 300 Days of Shine, 279 Beacon Lite Rd G, Monument.
• 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.
• Empty Bowls 2025, Silent Auction Basket Donation benefiting Tri-Lakes Cares, Basket Delivery Deadline Donation Deadline: Mon., Sep. 15, Contact: KatieG@Tri-LakesCares.org, Phone: 719-370-1317, Mail to: Katie Guillory, PO Box 1301, Monument, CO 80132 Tax ID: 74-2501356. Event: Wed., Oct. 1, Advanced tickets now available. Info: Heidi Baker 860-2087075, or emptybowlsmhk@gmail.com. see ad on page 10.
• Covered Treasures Bookstore, Sat, Sep. 20, 1-3 pm, author Lisa Hatfield signs To Ride a Storm Surge. A novel about a storm and family. Fri, Sep. 26, 5-8pm. ART HOP. Author Roberta Anderson signs A.I for Beginners in the Digital Age Author Marj Charlier signs Rebel Nun, Cardlemaker’s Woman, Hacienda, Romancing the Dog (3 Novellas). 105 Second Street, Monument.
• Art Hop (last one for 2025), Fri., Sep. 26, 5-8 pm, downtown Monument, fourth Fri., May through Sep. See ad on page 2.
• Blues on the Mesa , Sat., Sep. 27, 11-6:30 pm. Gold Hill Mesa, 142 Raven Mine Drive, Colo. Spgs. 80905. National and regional musicians. Info: https://bluesonthemesa.org. See ad on page 4
• Benet Hill Monastery, celebrate the season of creation Sep.1-Oct. 4, Blessing of the Animals, Sat., Oct. 4, 3 pm, Melanie DeMore concert Sun., Oct. 5, 11:30 am. 3190 Benet Lane, Colorado Springs. See ad on page 3.
• Western Museum of Mining and Industry, Miners' Pumpkin Patch, every Sat. in Oct. 225 Northgate Blvd, Colorado Springs, see ad on page 12.
• Tri-Lakes Womens Club will meet Oct. 10, at The Golf Club at Bear Dance, 6630 Bear Dance Dr., Larkspur. Guest speakers Michael Weinfeld and John Howe present highlights of their book: Shootouts, Killings, and War Heroes: The History Hidden in Monument Cemetery
• Maker’s Market , Sat.-Sun., Oct. 11-12, Sat. 9-4, Sun., 103, $5 at the door. Lewis Palmer High School, see ad on page 8.
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.
• Restyle Your Fur, Mon.-Tue., Oct. 20-21, 10 am-5 pm. The Love Shop, special offers the ad on page 12.
• MVEA high school leadership adventure, deadline Tue., Nov. 11. See ad on page 14.
• 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.
• Monument Cleaners, special offers. See ad on page 5.
• Monumental Med Spa , special offers. See ad on page 7.
• Noel Relief Centers, special
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, Oct. 4
Ad space reservations due: Fri., Sep. 12
Finished ad artwork due: Fri., Sep. 19
Letters to the editor due: Fri., Sep. 19
Calendar items due: Fri., Sep. 26
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
