Public Meetings - Castle Rock, Colorado

The Castle Rock Town Council meeting on November 3, 2026 was scheduled for 6:00 p.m. and adjourned at 6:12 p.m. All seven Council members were present. The available record is a brief transcript; no official minutes were available. The meeting consisted mainly of opening ceremonies, Council comments, an executive session report, and adjournment. No members of the public signed up for unscheduled public appearances. Consent Calendar - The agenda listed seven consent-calendar items, all second readings: the 10.54-acre RidgeView Town Center annexation; initial zoning for the same 10.54 acres; a development agreement and vesting site-specific development plan through December 31, 2036; a FY2026 supplemental budget ordinance; an ordinance eliminating the municipal sales-tax exemption for cigarettes and clarifying sales/use tax definitions; a sole-source purchase agreement for one Class 8 dump truck; and approval of the October 20, 2026 Town Council minutes. The agenda noted that the first readings had passed 7-0 on October 20, 2026. The transcript does not record discussion or a vote on these items. Public Comments & Testimony - No speakers signed up for unscheduled public appearances; no public testimony was recorded. The agenda allowed written comments to be submitted online by 1:00 p.m. on November 3, 2026, for inclusion in the public record. Discussion Items - Executive session report: Mayor Gray reported that an executive session was held after the October 20, 2026 regular meeting to discuss a potential Town property acquisition associated with the proposed Chateau Valley residential development, generally located east of Plum Creek Parkway and South Street. He asked for any open-meetings concerns; none were stated. - Council comments: Councilmember Hollingshead thanked election workers; Councilmember Bracken wished candidates well; Councilmember Davis thanked Town staff and praised the Town Academy; Councilmember Brooks remarked on returning to social media after the election; Councilmember Dietz noted the upcoming holidays and Veterans Day on November 11; and Mayor Pro Tem Cavey thanked staff for the boards and commissions dinner and gift. Key Outcomes - Roll call showed all seven Council members present: Mayor Jason Gray, Mayor Pro Tem Laura Cavey, and Councilmembers Ryan Hollingshead, Kevin Bracken, Mark Davis, Max Brooks, and Tim Dietz. - No public speakers were heard. - The transcript records a unanimous motion near the end without identifying the agenda item. - The meeting adjourned at 6:12 p.m. by unanimous roll-call vote, with Mayor Pro Tem Cavey moving and Councilmember Dietz seconding. - No substantive decisions on the consent-calendar land-use, budget, tax, or purchasing items are documented in the available transcript.

The Castle Rock Town Council convened on October 20, 2026, to consider a wide range of items including the annexation of the RidgeView Town Center, approval of the 2027 budget and fee ordinances, a neighborhood traffic calming appeal, and several policy ordinances. Council members also offered comments on development infrastructure, campaign finance, and term limits for the Downtown Development Authority. Consent Calendar The council approved the consent calendar (7–0), which included: - Ordinance adopting the 2027 fiscal year budget (second reading). - Ordinance amending stormwater, water resource, and wastewater fees (second reading). - 16 resolutions approving 2027 funding agreements with community partners, purchase agreements for fire apparatus, trail construction and maintenance agreements, construction of a Park‑N‑Ride facility, and amendments for the Chatfield Pump Back and McMurdo Gulch projects. - Minutes of the October 6, 2026 meeting. Public Comments & Testimony - Jack Hennessy proposed the town adopt a new municipal flag, presenting a design and stating it could be used on merchandise to generate revenue. He offered the design to the town in exchange for recognition. (Resident) - Jeff Guarente voiced concerns about license plate readers, citing his 15‑year experience of being stalked and arguing that the surveillance system threatens freedom and could be abused. (Resident) - Justin Costa (Army veteran, resident) spoke in support of the neighborhood traffic calming appeal for Coltin Trail, questioning the accuracy of the speed data and requesting measures to improve safety. Discussion Items Town Manager’s Report - The Town Manager conducted the formal graduation for the Your Town Academy class, reading names and presenting certificates. He also provided calendar reminders for upcoming board appreciation events, Veterans Day closures, and the election‑night meeting. Water Rights Update Mark Marlowe reported that Castle Rock Water, in partnership with Parker Water and the Lower South Platte Water Conservancy District, successfully settled with all 50 opposers on a water right for the Platte Valley Water Partnership without going to water court. The water right will yield 15,000–16,000 acre‑feet annually, with a refill of over 7,000 acre‑feet and a 26‑year average of over 6,000 acre‑feet. The town’s cost was about $885,000, less than anticipated. Council Comments and Motions - Mayor Jason Gray shared personal family news and offered condolences for community losses. - Councilmember Mark Davis clarified he is not opposed to development but emphasized the need for proper infrastructure upfront, citing the downtown sewer system’s limitations. - Councilmember Max Brooks reported on a state legislative audit regarding metropolitan districts and made a motion to place an item on the November 17 agenda to repeal the term‑limit prohibition for the Downtown Development Authority and replace it with a policy conforming to state statute (two consecutive four‑year terms, with eligibility after four years off). The motion was seconded and passed unanimously (7–0). - Councilmember Tim Dietz underlined the need for proper downtown infrastructure before approving taller or denser projects. - Mayor Pro Tem Laura Cavey discussed campaign contributions from a committee she associated with development interests, disclosing that a $30,000 filing included $10,000 checks from an LLC with opaque ownership. She called for future council action on campaign finance disclosure, board recusal standards, a downtown infrastructure capacity review, and a public conversation on height limits along Wilcox Street. RidgeView Town Center Annexation (Quasi‑Judicial) The council heard a presentation from applicant George Mattione and his team for three related items: 1. Annexation of 10.54 acres west of North Ridge Road. 2. Initial planned development zoning. 3. Approval of a development agreement with vested rights through December 31, 2036. The project includes up to 54,000 square feet of commercial space, a minimum of 6,000 square feet of full‑service restaurant space, one drive‑through (permitted only in the southern planning area), and $1.8 million in road improvement contributions. No public comment was received. The council approved each item by a vote of 7–0, with some members expressing hope that the drive‑through use would be limited to less intensive uses. Neighborhood Traffic Calming Appeal – Coltin Trail Staff presented data showing the street had 538 vehicles per day (above the 500 threshold) but 85th percentile speeds of 25 mph westbound and 27.5 mph eastbound (below the 30 mph criterion). The applicant requested an appeal, and resident Justin Costa spoke in favor. The council voted unanimously to direct staff to collect additional traffic data within 30 days and report back. Ordinance Requiring Corporate Entities to Report Theft Deputy Town Attorney Mark Smith presented a revised ordinance (continued from September 15). Staff recommended limiting its scope to thefts of $2,000 or more and removing difficulties in defining a large corporate retailer. After debate, Councilmember Max Brooks moved to adopt the ordinance with two amendments: striking the prohibition against employee retaliation and adding a council review by June 2027. The motion passed 4–3 (Davis, Brooks, Dietz, Cavey in favor; Hollingshead, Bracken, Gray opposed). Second reading is scheduled for November 17. Fireworks and Open Burning Restrictions (Second Reading) The fire chief confirmed that, per council’s first‑reading direction, the restriction on fireworks sales under Stage One had been removed. The council approved the ordinance unanimously (7–0). Affordable Housing Commitment (Proposition 123) Staff Tara Vargas explained the resolution to authorize the town manager to file a commitment with the state for 250 affordable housing units (2027–2029) and to adopt fast‑track permitting procedures. The council approved the resolution 7–0. Budget Amendment (Third Amendment to 2026 Fiscal Year) Finance Director Chris Mueller presented a supplemental appropriation of $4,187,058 in expenditures, offset by $1,550,000 in revenues, primarily to cover higher‑than‑expected medical‑insurance claims (now approaching $1 million per month). The council approved the ordinance on first reading (7–0). Cigarette Sales Tax Exemption Elimination (First Reading) Staff presented an ordinance to eliminate the exemption for cigarettes from the town’s sales tax, along with other clarifying provisions. The change is expected to be revenue‑neutral (the town currently receives about $150,000 annually from the state’s excise tax). The council approved the ordinance 7–0. Executive Session The council voted unanimously to recess into executive session to discuss real‑estate matters related to the proposed Chateau Valley residential development, with the meeting not reconvening. Key Outcomes - Approved consent calendar unanimously (7–0). - Approved motion to place DDA term‑limits change on November 17 agenda (7–0). - Approved RidgeView annexation, zoning, and development agreement (each 7–0). - Directed staff to gather new traffic data on Coltin Trail within 30 days (7–0). - Approved ordinance requiring corporate theft reporting, as amended (4–3). - Approved fireworks/open burning amendment (7–0). - Approved affordable housing resolution (7–0). - Approved budget amendment (first reading) (7–0). - Approved cigarette tax exemption elimination (first reading) (7–0). - Approved motion to enter executive session (7–0).

The Town Council met on Tuesday, October 6, 2026, at 6:05 PM in Town Hall Council Chambers. The meeting covered a wide range of items including proclamations, public comments, a code of conduct hearing examiner appointment, consent calendar approvals, public hearings on a landmark designation, a kratom sales ban, fireworks restrictions, and multiple budget and financial plan adoptions. The meeting recessed into executive session around 7:36 PM and reconvened, concluding with a motion to enter executive session for property acquisitions and negotiations. Consent Calendar - Approved unanimously (7-0) the consent calendar including: Ordinance 2026-031 (repeal/re-enactment of Title 9), Ordinance 2026-034 (water and sewer enterprise revenue bonds), Resolution 2026-103 (fire department Standards of Cover), Resolutions 2026-104 and 2026-105 (contract amendments for Fire Station 156 construction), Proclamation 2026-013 (Crash Responder Safety Week, November 2-6, 2026), and the September 15, 2026, meeting minutes. Public Comments & Testimony - David Miles (downtown resident, business owner) called for more dialogue between council and business owners, citing a perceived lack of meaningful involvement in decisions like downtown building heights. He offered to help bring stakeholders together. - Terry McIntyre thanked council for looking into an unspecified issue and asked how decisions would be communicated; staff promised to follow up. - Amy Winshu criticized Councilmember Bracken for a Facebook post that she characterized as using a homophobic slur against a resident, and urged council to note this conduct during election season. - Marcus Northison (Vice President of Castle Rock Economic Development Council) and Grace Wright Crane (Director of Colorado Space Institute) presented the CSI program at the Sturm Collaboration Campus, noting it was named one of seven NASA Aerospace Skilled Technical Workforce hubs and will bring $1.3 million to Colorado. - Susan McAfee (resident, toxicologist) opposed the kratom ban, arguing that naturally occurring kratom is safe and that only synthetic 7-OH products should be regulated; she urged council to differentiate. - Dana Baum (resident, DCGOP leader) supported the kratom ban, citing the recent deaths of two University of Mississippi students possibly linked to synthetic kratom, and praised the council's original 6-1 vote. - Benjamin Major (TNT Fireworks) and Brad Witherall (Davy Jones Fireworks) opposed banning fireworks sales during stage one fire restrictions, arguing it would push consumers to buy illegal aerial fireworks from out of state and harm nonprofits that depend on holiday sales. They proposed enhanced safety measures and customer notifications instead. - Morgan Cullen (HBA of Metro Denver) expressed concerns about the cumulative impact fee burden (noting total fees on a 2,500 sq. ft. home often exceed $100,000) and requested offsets if water resource fees increase; he cited reduced permit activity (683 in 2022, 240 in 2025, 118 year-to-date in 2026). Discussion Items - Code of Conduct Complaint (Hearing Examiner Appointment): Town Attorney Michael Hyman recommended appointing Winetta Massey, retired Colorado Springs City Attorney, as independent hearing examiner for a complaint filed under Section 2.05.060. Councilmember Dietz, Cavey, and Brooks spoke in favor of the process, while Mayor Pro Tem Cavey detailed past instances of what she called hypocritical behavior by Councilmember Bracken and Mayor Gray. Bracken denied the allegations, citing medical records for his absence and disputing characterization of a social media exchange. The motion passed 7-0. - Local Landmark Designation (422 Front Street) – Second Reading: Ordinance 2026-030 designating the Maples as a local landmark passed 7-0 (Councilmember Davis, who recused on first reading, voted yes). - Kratom Sales Prohibition – Second Reading: Ordinance 2026-032 passed 6-1. Councilmember Bracken voted no, stating he wanted to honor businesses that had relied on the previous allowance. Councilmember Brooks and Mayor Pro Tem Cavey emphasized protecting children and noted the Englewood death. The prohibition covers retail sales of kratom products for human consumption. - Fireworks and Open Burning Restrictions – First Reading: Ordinance 2026-035 originally proposed banning fireworks sales during stage one restrictions. After testimony from fireworks retailers, Councilmember Hollingshead moved to remove that provision, keeping the ban only at stage two. The amendment passed 6-1; Mayor Gray voted against, arguing a mixed message. The rest of the code cleanup (clarifying allowed activities under stage one and two, restricted use dates June 1–July 4, use only July 4 8am-10pm, etc.) was retained. - 2027 Fiscal Year Budgets and Financial Plans: The council conducted first readings of the Town’s 2027 budget (Ordinance 2026-036), rate and fee changes (2026-037), property tax levy (2026-038), and approved the 2027-2031 Balanced Financial Plan (Resolution 2026-108) and Five-Year Capital Improvement Program (2026-109). All passed unanimously. Key points: adding 5 police and 5 fire positions, full funding for Fire Station 156 operations, 4.82% increase on existing water rates, new sliding-scale system development fees based on home square footage (reducing fees for average-size homes), and a continued commitment to growth paying for growth while noting slowing development revenue. - URA and FPC Board Meetings: The council recessed to act as the Castle Rock Urban Renewal Authority Board and Festival Park Commons General Improvement District Board. Minutes and 2027 budgets were approved unanimously. - Downtown Development Authority Budget: Resolution 2026-110 approving the DDA’s 2027 FY budget (including a 3-mill levy and town match of about $220,000) passed unanimously. Director Kevin Tilson noted lower assessed values and increased personnel costs due to health insurance. Key Outcomes - Independent Hearing Examiner Appointed: Winetta Massey will oversee the code of conduct complaint against Councilmember Davis (motion passed 7-0). - 422 Front Street Designated a Local Landmark: Ordinance 2026-030 adopted on second reading (7-0). - Kratom Retail Sales Prohibited: Ordinance 2026-032 adopted 6-1, effective after publication. - Fireworks Ordinance Amended on First Reading: The ban on sales during stage one restrictions was removed; final adoption will require second reading. - 2027 Budget Approved on First Reading: The $[amount]-million general fund budget (not specified in transcript) and associated rate/fee ordinances advanced unanimously to second reading (October 20). - Balanced Financial Plan and CIP Approved: Resolutions 2026-108 and 2026-109 passed unanimously. - DDA Budget Approved: Resolution 2026-110 passed unanimously. - Executive Session Authorized: Council recessed to discuss property acquisitions (Chateau Valley and vacant parcel near 1st & Wilcox) and negotiation strategy for Dawson Trails town-owned property (motion passed 7-0; no return to open session).

The Castle Rock Town Council met on Tuesday, September 15, 2026, at 6:00 PM in the Town Hall Council Chambers. The meeting included a proclamation for Dyslexia Awareness Month, public comments on several topics, discussion and votes on multiple ordinances and resolutions, and a budget presentation. Key actions included approval of a landmark designation, community grants, an economic development agreement with AlloSource, a comprehensive update of the municipal criminal code, and a ban on retail kratom sales. The meeting concluded with a motion to adjourn to executive session. Consent Calendar - Proclamation 2026-012 – Fire Prevention Week (October 4–10, 2026) was approved for presentation on October 6, 2026. (Unanimous vote) - Minutes 2026-023 – The minutes from the September 1, 2026 meeting were approved. (Unanimous vote) Public Comments & Testimony - Support for Councilmember Mark Davis – Three residents (Andre Geniac, Janet Zodaway, Evan Fraser) spoke in favor of Councilmember Mark Davis, urging the council to reject recall efforts and supporting his stance against high-density development. Geniac criticized a coordinated campaign to sideline Davis, while Zodaway and Fraser emphasized that Davis’s mistake was minor and that they prefer him over developers. - Criticism of Council Hypocrisy – Resident Megan (last name not given) accused Mayor Pro Tem Cavey and another councilmember of hypocrisy for promoting personal beliefs on a ballot issue after previously stating it was not the council’s role to influence voters. - Golf Course Tee Time Fees – Resident Randy Reid requested that the council adjust the advanced tee time fee policy at Red Hawk Ridge Golf Course, arguing that the $25 non‑refundable fee disproportionately hurts residents (40% increase for residents vs. 30% for non‑residents). He proposed a $10 fee for residents. - Kratom Ban – Several residents spoke against the proposed kratom ban (Items 13): - Susan McAfee (toxicologist) distinguished natural kratom from synthetic 7‑OH products, arguing the ban should target synthetics. - Karen Ann Harlos opposed the ban, stating it is an overreach and that natural kratom is a pain management alternative. - Wayne Harlos shared his personal success using kratom for chronic pain after being cut off from opioids. - Jacob Brinksten, a recovered opiate addict, credited kratom for his recovery and asked the council not to ban it. - Joseph Dale Franciscan, a casual user, noted kratom helps with anxiety and urged the council to consider the impact on local businesses. - Travis Turner (American Kratom Association) asked the council to distinguish natural leaf products from synthetic 7‑OH, stating that the DEA/FDA target synthetics. - Misty Brown, a mother from Gordon, shared her story of using natural kratom to overcome opioid addiction and pleaded with the council to ban only synthetic products. - Retail Theft Ordinance – Margie Muniz agreed with Police Chief Collie’s remarks that the retail theft reporting requirement (Item 14) is unnecessary and could deter retailers from locating in Castle Rock. - Water Fee Increases – Morgan Cullen, representing the Home Builders Association of Metro Denver, asked the council to reconsider proposed water fee increases, noting that builders already pay over $100,000 in fees per home and that permit activity has dropped sharply. Discussion Items - Dyslexia Awareness Month Proclamation – The council presented a proclamation recognizing October 2026 as Dyslexia Awareness Month and October 1, 2026, as Drive for Dyslexia Day. Representatives from ALTA Charitable Foundation and Away with Words spoke about the need for trained educators and the upcoming golf tournament. - Council Comments – Councilmembers thanked staff for open houses, highlighted the new recreation center tour, promoted the upcoming Lost Canyon open house, noted the new cancer center, and encouraged attendance at various community events. - Town Manager’s Report – David Corless reviewed upcoming events, including open houses, the state of the town event, and neighborhood meetings for proposed developments. He noted that the town-owned Cantrell School is zoned for multifamily. - Development Services Updates – Staff provided updates on calendar reminders, monthly department reports, and quasi‑judicial projects (no action taken). Key Outcomes - Local Landmark Designation (422 Front Street – The Maples) – Ordinance 2026‑030 was approved on first reading, 6‑0 (Councilmember Davis recused). The property, built 1901‑1902, meets local landmark criteria for significance and integrity. - Third Quarter Community Grants – Council unanimously approved $1,000 grants to Clothes to Kids of Denver (shoes for 153 students), ALTA Charitable Foundation (language therapy training), and Aspen Effect (mentoring for Castle Rock families). - AlloSource Economic Assistance Agreement – Resolution 2026‑101 was approved unanimously. AlloSource, a life sciences company, will occupy 26,000 sq ft, create up to 300 jobs with 75% hired locally, and receive a 50% permit fee waiver plus up to $300,000 in pay‑for‑performance incentives. - Bella Mesa Metropolitan District Amendment – Resolution 2026‑102 was approved unanimously. The fourth amendment allows the district to provide covenant enforcement and design review services for new developments without HOA, and clarifies fee authority and dissolution terms. - Title 9 Repeal and Reenactment (Criminal Code) – Ordinance 2026‑031 was approved on first reading, 7‑0. The updated code adds definitions, clarifies mental states, modernizes offenses (disorderly conduct, theft, damage to property), and codifies state law on penalties, restitution, and public service. - Kratom Ban – Ordinance 2026‑032 was approved on first reading, 6‑1 (Councilmember Bracken opposed). The ordinance prohibits all retail sales of kratom products for human consumption, expanding upon the 2019 ban on sales to minors. - Retail Theft Reporting Requirement – Ordinance 2026‑033 was continued to a future meeting after council agreed to refine the definition of “large retailer” and establish a minimum threshold for reporting, following concerns from the police chief that it could harm trust with retailers. - 2027 Budget Introduction – The 2027 budget was presented as an introduction. Key elements include five new police positions, five new fire positions, funding for the new sports center, road maintenance ($18.6 million), and continued LINK on‑demand service. No vote was taken; the budget will return for readings in October. - Water & Sewer Rates and Fees Study – The 2026 rates and fees study was introduced. Proposed changes include a 4.76% overall rate increase, a new high‑usage surcharge for residential customers over 50,000 gallons per month, and adjustments to system development fees. No vote was taken; the item will return for readings in October. - Water and Sewer Enterprise Revenue Bonds – Ordinance 2026‑034 was approved on first reading, 7‑0. It authorizes the issuance of up to $66 million in revenue bonds (or a $30 million CWCB loan) to fund water infrastructure projects, with maximum interest of 5% and final maturity by December 2046. - Executive Session – Council voted 7‑0 to recess into executive session for legal advice regarding enforcement of Chapter 2.05 of the Town Code, not to return to open session.

The Castle Rock Town Council met Tuesday, September 1, 2026, at 6:00 p.m. in Town Hall Council Chambers and adjourned at 10:55 p.m. The agenda included consent items, a town manager and drought/water report, a quasi-judicial site development hearing for the 112-acre Chateau Valley subdivision, a resolution supporting Colorado Proposition 134 (the 'Protect Women and Girls Sports Act'), a second-reading school land/fee ordinance, a discussion of Title 9 code revisions, and a US 85/CO 86 traffic and safety contract. The meeting drew extensive public testimony from residents, a petition group, and Douglas County School District representatives. Consent Calendar - The agenda's consent calendar listed: two second-reading ordinances (Items 7-8) annexing and zoning 16.12 town-owned acres; a public nuisance ordinance (Item 9); a zoning text amendment ordinance (Item 10); a sole-source purchase agreement with Transwest Freightliner for four Class 8 dump trucks (Item 11); a Dewberry Engineers agreement for Phase 1 of the Sedalia Gravity Collection System (Item 12); a reimbursement-intent resolution for water/sewer improvements (Item 13); a Dyslexia Awareness Month/Drive for Dyslexia Day proclamation (Item 14); and the August 18, 2026 meeting minutes (Item 15). - Note: the provided transcript does not record a separate roll call vote on the consent calendar; it moves from the Town Manager's report to the quasi-judicial hearing. The minutes were not available for verification. Public Comments & Testimony - Unscheduled comments: Dean Legatsky, a former District 3 council candidate, criticized the August 18, 2026 censure attempt against a council member as lacking notice, verification, or a right to respond, and asked council to adopt a written censure process and a disclosure rule for board appointees. David Miles, identified as a Design Review Board member, downtown business owner, and resident, renewed his request for council to censure Councilmember Mark Davis and asked for formal investigations by the town, Douglas County, and the state attorney general, citing text messages he said Davis admitted sending and deleting. Amy Wing urged support for Proposition 134 and questioned the ethics and recusal of several council members. A resident asked Public Works to make older Coach Line bike-lane markings match the newer section. - Chateau Valley (Item 16): Many residents spoke against the plan as proposed. Vanessa Kiley said more than 1,300 residents signed the 'Reject and Revise Chateau Valley' petition and asked for a minimum 150-foot buffer and greater preservation of forested land/open space. Other speakers raised water supply and high bills, traffic and road connections, narrow streets, public safety response times, wildlife corridors, floodplain and federal wetland approvals, privacy, and a claimed lack of current resident support. Some asked council to deny or continue the project; some suggested the town purchase the property. Speakers cited a community survey finding 73% support for preserving more natural areas, a claimed 7,989 homes in the development pipeline, water bills of $549 and $408, the 423-to-402 home reduction being about 4.9%, and a concern that the homes were characterized as affordable despite being around $600,000. One long-time senior resident asked for a senior ombudsman and criticized the $3-per-month senior water discount as inadequate. One resident called the traffic study 'bogus.' - Proposition 134 (Item 17): Supporters included Amy Winju, Matt Smith, Jimmy Graham, Clifford Hancock, Dana Baum, a Protect Kids Colorado board member, and Christopher Waterman; they argued the measure protects girls' and women's sports and locker rooms and is common sense. Opponents included Anya Zavadil, Keith, Angela Thomas, and Megan Zavadil; they argued the town should not take a position on a statewide ballot issue outside its municipal purview and that voters should decide. - School land/fee ordinance (Item 18): Douglas County School District Board President Susan Meek, board director Tony Ryan, Long Range Planning Committee chair Michael Kemp, DCSD attorney Sarah Kellner, and other district representatives asked council to table the ordinance, citing planning timelines, bond-funding requirements, legal concerns, and a risk that no future school could be built in Castle Rock. Angela Thomas questioned whether the ordinance solved the underlying Crystal Valley coordination problem. Chris Spike asked staff to work with the district/county and to confirm the ordinance closes the loophole that allowed a Crystal Valley school site to revert to the developer. Town Manager's Report and Drought/Water Update - The Town Manager gave calendar reminders including open houses and a September 9 Sports Center tour, and said Parks and Recreation had a record-breaking concert season. He reported the budget would be introduced at the next meeting, with first and second readings in October and final assessed valuation in December; he cited $100 million in sales tax and $1.5 million in property tax. He said assessed valuation for Castle Rock has gone down. He proposed rescheduling the canceled July 4 fireworks to November 11 with the same contractor. He and the fire chief recommended banning fireworks sale and use at Stage 1 of fire restrictions, rather than the current approach that bans use at Stage 1 and sale at Stage 2; that decision would be considered with Title 9. - Water Director Mark Marlowe said the drought is not over; Douglas County conditions are worse than in May, July was the second-warmest month on record, and the South Platte is below average and near record lows. Lake Mead and Lake Powell are at their lowest levels since construction. Community response to Stage 2 reduced average daily demand from 18 million gallons per day in early July to about 14.8 million gallons per day, an approximately 20% reduction. He recommended moving to a Stage 1 drought declaration with voluntary conservation and every-third-day watering. Marlowe said the drought is a temporary peak-demand issue, that new development must secure water supplies before approval, and that approved developments already have water planned. He also said the turf-rebate program could be examined for backyard turf. Development Services Project Updates - Staff reported new quasi-judicial applications including Birkencotter Motors auto sales, a landmark designation at 422 Front Street, a Quick Trip convenience/fuel/car wash, and a wireless cellular facility at Fire Station 152. Pre-applications included Texas Roadhouse at the Outlet Mall pads, a Quick Quack car wash, Commerce Bank, an Emporium addition, a Perry Street parking lot, a nonprofit food-truck kitchen at 505 Jerry Street, Cantrell School rezoning, Castlewood Ranch Metro District signage, Castle Rock Autoplex changes, and Dawson Trails commercial lots. Staff said about 30% of pre-applications become formal applications. Quasi-Judicial Hearing: Chateau Valley (Item 16) - Applicant testimony from Rusty Hall of Highline Engineering on behalf of Chateau Valley LLC: the 112-acre site would contain 402 homes, including 148 duplex lots and 254 single-family detached lots, one future clubhouse, 50 acres (45%) of open space, 3,700 linear feet of concrete regional trail, and 2,800 feet of soft hiking trail. The proposal is a 28% reduction from the 561 allowable units under the 1983 Young American PUD. Traffic engineer Mike Rocha said counts were updated in January 2025 and that under 2045 build-out, existing street capacity would not be exceeded; the lower density would reduce traffic generation by approximately 28% compared with allowable density. - Staff said four neighborhood meetings were held and the proposal was reduced from 423 to 415 to 402 homes. Water supply for the development has been planned since 1983; new homes in Castle Rock have no front-yard turf and reduced backyard turf requirements. Staff clarified that Memmen Ridge open space owned by the town is separate from the private trees on the Chateau Valley site. The applicant proposes transplanting 60 mature trees and replacing them if they do not survive; staff stated the code-required tree count is 181 and the proposal includes 1,946 trees including transplants. - Council questions covered tree removal, buffers, traffic, and road connections. Staff said the minimum buffer is 30 feet, varying to 60 feet and more than 100 feet. Existing Valley Drive/Plum Creek operates at level of service (LOS) C or better, while Valley Drive/Fifth is currently LOS F in the AM peak and E in the PM peak before construction. Under 2045 build-out, Valley/Plum Creek would operate at LOS D or better (southbound left turn at D; other movements C or better), and Valley/Fifth would operate at LOS A if signalized. The applicant modeled both full connections and limited-connection/emergency-access scenarios; both reportedly work. Councilmember Davis recommended closing Ash and Elm to public through traffic; Eton would remain connected. - After testimony, Councilmember Brooks moved to direct staff to explore acquisition of adjacent and forested portions of the property using available mechanisms, including possible condemnation; the motion passed unanimously. A suggestion to explore purchase of the entire property for permanent conservation was discussed but no separate vote was taken. A motion to continue Resolution 2026-098 to the first meeting in January 2027 passed unanimously. Council discussion cited the need for better buffers, more land preservation, and a better plan before reconsideration. Proposition 134 Resolution (Item 17) - Staff explained Initiative 109 will appear on the November ballot as Proposition 134. After public comment, Councilmember Bracken spoke about his personal experience with Title IX elimination of his wrestling program; Councilmember Brooks said council routinely takes positions on state legislative matters and called the initiative a grassroots response to failed state legislation; Mayor Pro Tem Cavey, Dietz, Davis, and Gray all voiced support. The resolution passed 7-0. School Land and Cash Fees Ordinance (Item 18) - Council considered second reading of Ordinance 2026-027, which would amend Section 16.08.120 to create a review process for school-dedicated land and cash fees, including dialogue with DCSD and neighborhood notice/public hearing before removal of a school designation. Councilmember Hollingshead declined to recuse himself despite being a DCSD employee; the town attorney said recusal is each councilmember's call unless there is a clear violation. - The Douglas County School District requested a tabling and further negotiation over timelines and legal issues. Councilmembers Bracken, Hollingshead, and Mayor Gray said the timelines appeared too restrictive for school planning and bond cycles; Councilmembers Davis, Brooks, Dietz, and Mayor Pro Tem Cavey said the town has maintained unused dedicated properties for years and that the ordinance preserves future opportunity for public input and future school discussions. The ordinance passed 4-3. First reading had been approved 5-2 on August 18, 2026. Title 9 Code Discussion (Item 19) - The town attorney presented a comprehensive update to Title 9 of the Municipal Code, originally adopted in 1968, with new definitions, offenses against public peace/property/government, unlawful interference with an educational institution, parental responsibility, noise-control changes required by Hobbs v. City of Salida, restitution/public service, and penalty levels up to 364 days in jail and $2,650 in fines. Separate proposed ordinances would add corporate retail-theft reporting within 96 hours with anti-retaliation protections, ban retail Kratom sales, and address fireworks sales during fire restrictions. - Council discussion was direction only. Mayor Pro Tem Cavey expressed concern that 96-hour retail-theft reporting could strain police-retailer relationships. Councilmember Brooks suggested keeping the additional ordinances separate because there was not consensus, said he was not in favor of the fireworks-sales change, and supported outreach to retailers. Staff said outreach could occur and the ordinances could return on September 15, 2026. US 85/CO 86 Traffic and Safety Plan (Item 20) - Staff presented Resolution 2026-100 approving a professional services agreement with Felsburg Holt & Ullevig for a safety and operations study of US 85 and CO 86/Founders Parkway. The current-year budget allocation is $750,000; the contract is just under $700,000, with the remainder held as contingency. The study will use CDOT's procurement selection process, take about a year, and inform future capital projects. The Public Works Commission recommended approval unanimously. Councilmember Hollingshead noted the corridor is a regional connector; staff said regional growth will be included in the modeling. The resolution passed 7-0. Key Outcomes - Chateau Valley Resolution 2026-098 was continued to the first meeting in January 2027; the acquisition-exploration motion passed unanimously. - Proposition 134 support resolution passed 7-0. - School land/fee Ordinance 2026-027 passed 4-3 (Davis, Brooks, Dietz, and Cavey yes; Hollingshead, Bracken, and Gray no). - US 85/CO 86 contract resolution passed 7-0. - Title 9 discussion produced direction to keep additional ordinances separate and conduct retailer outreach; no vote was taken. - The council adjourned at 10:55 p.m. by unanimous vote.

The Castle Rock Town Council met on Tuesday, August 18, 2026, at 6:00 PM in the Town Hall Council Chambers. The meeting covered a wide range of topics including the proposed removal of the Design Review Board (DRB), a censure motion against Councilmember Mark Davis, annexation and zoning of town-owned parcels, approval of a King Soopers grocery store and fueling station, amendments to the Castle Meadows Metropolitan District service plan, an ordinance regarding school land designations, a public nuisance ordinance, zoning code amendments, and an update on the Comprehensive Master Plan 2040. Several votes were taken, and public testimony was heard on multiple issues. Consent Calendar - Items 7–11 were approved unanimously: Resolution 2026-089 (first amendment to services agreement with Barker Rinker Seacat Architecture for the Sports Development Center); Resolution 2026-090 (third amendment to IGA with Douglas County for Highway 85 wastewater system); Resolution 2026-091 (third amendment with W.W. Wheeler for Reservoir Nos. 1 and 2); Resolution 2026-092 (Purchase and Sale Agreement with Findlay Family Properties for Plum Creek to Rueter-Hess Pipeline); and Minutes from July 21, 2026. Public Comments & Testimony - David Miles (resident and business owner): Presented text messages allegedly from Councilmember Mark Davis offering to drop the Design Review Board (DRB) and help with building approvals and town alleyways in exchange for pulling a recall effort. He called for Councilmember Davis's resignation, an independent investigation, and a Colorado Open Records Act request for relevant communications. - Amy Winshu (resident): Criticized the DRB's lack of meetings (only 1 in 2026, 3 in 2025, 5 in 2024) and delayed minutes, and questioned the board's composition and connection to elected officials. - Aaron Kane (Superintendent, Douglas County School District): Highlighted the district's record graduation rate, top metro-area scores, and lower staff turnover; expressed commitment to partnering with the town on growth, infrastructure, and school safety. - Harry Young (resident): Expressed support for Councilmember Davis, arguing the recall is an attack on democratic process; urged council to prioritize moderate growth and infrastructure capacity over high-density development downtown. Discussion Items - Motion to Remove DRB Discussion from Agenda: Councilmember Brooks moved to postpone item 17 (discussion on removing the Design Review Board and reallocating responsibilities) to after the election, citing the need for more community input. After debate, the motion passed 6–1 (Bracken dissenting). - Censure Motion Against Councilmember Davis: Councilmember Hollingshead moved to censure Davis for unethical behavior related to text messages described in public comments. Councilmember Brooks argued for due process, stating he had just seen the messages. The first roll call vote was 3–4 against (Hollingshead, Bracken, Gray in favor; Davis, Brooks, Deeds, Cavey opposed). The town attorney noted Davis could recuse, and on a revote with Davis recusing, the vote tied 3–3 (Hollingshead, Bracken, Gray in favor; Brooks, Deeds, Cavey opposed), so the motion failed. - Annexation and Initial Zoning of Town-Owned Parcels (Items 12 & 13): Staff presented the annexation and rezoning to Public Land District 1 for four groups of parcels totaling 16.12 acres (Home Street, Maher Ranch tank site, Founders Corner, Terrain Remnant). Both ordinances passed unanimously. - King Soopers Grocery Store and Fueling Station (Item 14): Applicant presented a 12.1-acre site in Dawson Trails Planning Area E2, including enhanced west-side landscaping, parking reduction of 19.5% (to 4 spaces per 1,000 sq ft), and three neighborhood meetings. The site development plan was approved unanimously. - Castle Meadows Metropolitan District Service Plan Amendment (Item 15): The district sought a first amendment increasing public improvement costs to $73.9M, debt issuance to $86.3M, and maximum debt service mill levy from 50 to 64.044 mills (aggregate from 60 to 74.044 mills) to align with Dawson Trails and cover inflation. The resolution passed unanimously. - School Land Designation Ordinance (Item 16): An ordinance to amend Section 16.08.120 establishing a process for the town to remove school-designation from 13 parcels it owns (never dedicated to the school district). The school district requested delay and expressed concerns about loss of resources. The ordinance passed 5–2 (Hollingshead and Bracken opposed). - Public Nuisance Ordinance (Item 18) and Zoning Code Amendments (Item 19): Staff presented a new Chapter 8.01 for nuisance abatement (deferred maintenance, trash, etc.) and a series of zoning code updates including home occupation modernization (e.g., permitting personal services like hair salons), clarification of plat vacation, definitions, parking table reorganization, and other cleanup. Both ordinances were approved on first reading unanimously. - Comprehensive Master Plan 2040 Update (Item 20): Staff introduced the upcoming update process, budgeted for consultant services ($250,000), with a 12–15 month timeline including broad community engagement. Council directed staff to proceed with issuing an RFP, passing unanimously. Key Outcomes - Motion to postpone DRB discussion to after election passed (6–1). - Censure of Councilmember Mark Davis failed (first 3–4, then 3–3 tie). - Annexation and zoning of 16.12 acres of town-owned parcels approved (unanimous). - King Soopers site development plan approved (unanimous). - Castle Meadows Metro District service plan amendment approved (unanimous). - Ordinance to create process for removing school land designations from town-owned parcels passed (5–2). - Public nuisance ordinance and zoning code amendments approved on first reading (unanimous). - Direction given to proceed with Comprehensive Master Plan 2040 update (unanimous).

The Castle Rock Town Council met on Tuesday, July 21, 2026, at 6:00 PM in the Town Hall Council Chambers. The meeting covered a wide range of topics including council comments on license plate readers and community events, approvals for the Gold Crown Fieldhouse project, a drought watch declaration, significant pipeline infrastructure contracts, and a six-month moratorium on commercial drone delivery hubs. Key votes were largely unanimous, with occasional discussion topics like nuisance code modernization scheduled for later consideration. Consent Calendar - Ordinance 2026-021 (Second Reading): Approved the Second Amendment to the 2026 Fiscal Year Budget, making supplemental appropriations. Passed 6-0. - Resolution 2026-080: Approved an Equipment and Services Agreement with Ideal Fencing Corp, LLC for fencing at Castle Rock Reservoir Nos. 1 and 2. Passed 6-0. - Minutes 2026-019: Approved the July 7, 2026 Town Council Meeting minutes. Passed 6-0. Public Comments & Testimony - John Lont (resident): Spoke in support of partnering with nonprofit trail organizations, citing an example where Conifer High School built trails for $71,000 that would have cost $239,000 using only a for-profit company. He urged transparent decision-making and noted that many successful trail systems in the Front Range use nonprofit partners. He also expressed concern that Castle Rock is losing sales tax revenue to Colorado Springs due to uncrowded trails there. Discussion Items - Flock License Plate Readers: Councilmember Max Brooks initiated a motion for staff to prepare a report on license plate reader data collection, privacy concerns, and alternative companies like Axon (recently adopted by Douglas County). Discussion emphasized that the Castle Rock Police Department uses the system effectively and that data sharing with CBI is necessary for regional coordination. The motion passed unanimously, with Councilmember Laura Cavey providing technical context about data storage and contractual 30-day deletion requirements. - Gold Crown Fieldhouse Project (Resolutions 2026-081 & 2026-082): Two resolutions were introduced together but voted separately. Resolution 2026-081 approved a three-party Intergovernmental Agreement (IGA) between the Town, Douglas County ($7.5 million contribution), and the Gold Crown Foundation. The town will provide a deed of property with a reversionary interest for 10 years. Resolution 2026-082 waived up to $1,000,000 in development impact fees and land use fees for the project. Kevin Petty, Executive Director of Gold Crown Foundation, presented the project update: a 6-court facility (with potential Phase 2 expansion) targeting a groundbreaking in April 2027 and opening in April 2028, expecting 600,000 annual visitors and programming for 15,000 youth. Total project cost is $35 million plus $10 million land value; currently $23.3 million raised (including $5 million from Gold Crown and $18.3 million from gifts), with a $11.7 million gap partly addressed by the fee waiver and other prospects. Both resolutions passed unanimously. - Firefighter Union Recognition (Resolution 2026-083): Recognizes the International Association of Fire Fighters Local 4116 as the employee organization for certain fire department employees for non-binding consultation. It establishes formal communication processes with the fire chief, town manager, and HR, but does not provide collective bargaining. Matt Osborne, union president, spoke in support, noting the department's 25th anniversary and the collaborative approach. Councilmembers praised the fire department's service. Passed unanimously. - Election Coordination (Ordinance 2026-022 & Resolution 2026-084): Ordinance 2026-022 directs the November 3, 2026 municipal election to be conducted by the Douglas County Clerk and Recorder as a coordinated election, adopted on emergency first and final reading. Resolution 2026-084 approves the IGA with the county for election administration; cost is approximately $1 per active registered voter (about 59,000 active voters in Castle Rock). Both passed unanimously. - Commercial Drone Delivery Moratorium (Ordinance 2026-023): Imposes a six-month moratorium on the submission, acceptance, processing, and approval of applications for commercial drone delivery hubs, adopted on emergency first and final reading. Council indicated this allows time to develop regulations, with the possibility of extension. Passed unanimously. - Nuisance Code Modernization (Discussion 2026-019): Staff presented proposed updates to nuisance regulations, home occupation rules (last updated in the 1990s), and related code amendments. The new ordinance would provide a step-by-step process for abatement, including liens. Council supported the direction and requested a comprehensive final ordinance for the August 18, 2026 meeting. One resident spoke in favor, citing challenges with HOAs not addressing issues. - Cantril School Restoration (Resolution 2026-085): Approved a construction contract with Deep Roots Craftsmen for exterior restoration of the historic Cantril School building, including roof replacement, window restoration, masonry repair, and water intrusion mitigation. Contract amount is $1.6 million with a town-managed 20% contingency ($1.9 million total). Work expected to take about a year. Passed unanimously. - Drought Watch Stage 2 Declaration (Resolution 2026-088): Declared Stage 2 drought conditions within the Castle Rock Water service area, effective August 1, 2026. Mark Marlowe, Water Director, cited 40% of Douglas County in extreme drought, above-average temperatures, and water use exceeding 18 million gallons per day for over 30 consecutive days. Commercial customers will move from three to two watering days per week; residential customers from every third day to two days per week. The town can adjust the stage if conditions improve, with council confirmation within 21 days. Passed unanimously. - Plum Creek to Rueter-Hess Pipeline Contracts (Resolutions 2026-086 & 2026-087): Approved sole-source contracts: a construction contract with Global Underground Corporation ($3.8 million plus $342,000 force account) for the south phase, and a professional services agreement with Providence Infrastructure Consultants ($5.89 million total authorization) for design and construction services. The pipeline, which will allow water to flow in both directions, is critical to filling Castle Rock's water rights in Rueter-Hess Reservoir; the south phase must be completed by February 2027 due to impending development on easement parcels. Both passed unanimously. - Eminent Domain for Pipeline Easements (Ordinance 2026-024): Amended the 2023 ordinance authorizing eminent domain for the Plum Creek to Rueter-Hess Pipeline to update legal descriptions. Staff indicated negotiations are ongoing for remaining easements (7 permanent, 6 temporary), with a preference for voluntary agreements. Any future filing for a specific property would require another council hearing. Passed unanimously. Key Outcomes - All consent calendar items approved 6-0. - Motion to review Flock license plate reader data and policies passed unanimously. - Gold Crown Fieldhouse IGA and fee waiver both approved unanimously. - Firefighter union resolution approved unanimously. - Election coordination ordinance and IGA approved unanimously. - Six-month drone delivery moratorium approved unanimously. - Direction to staff to bring nuisance code ordinance to August 18 meeting. - Cantril School restoration contract approved unanimously. - Drought Stage 2 declared unanimously; effective August 1. - Sole-source pipeline contracts and eminent domain ordinance approved unanimously. - Council recessed into executive session at approximately 8:00 PM to discuss legal advice on recreational facility operations, with no reconvening planned.

The Castle Rock Town Council met on 2026-07-07 at Town Hall Council Chambers, with the agenda listing a 6:00 PM start. Mayor Jason Gray presided. Mayor Pro Tem Laura Cavey and Councilmembers Kevin Bracken, Mark Davis, Max Brooks, and Tim Dietz were present; Councilmember Ryan Hollingshead was absent. The meeting included a Smart Irrigation Month proclamation, a Youth Commission appointment, two quasi-judicial hearings, a drone-delivery regulatory discussion, a supplemental budget first reading, a traffic signal contract, a stormwater master plan agreement, and an executive session not to return. Ceremonial Items and Reports - The Council presented the Smart Irrigation Month proclamation for July 2026, noting that Castle Rock residents have reduced water consumption by 25% since 2006 and have committed to an additional 13% reduction by 2055. The proclamation had been approved 7-0 on June 16, 2026. - The Council unanimously appointed Rian Dorr to the Youth Commission for a partial term ending May 31, 2028, following the Youth Commission's unanimous recommendation. - Town Manager staff reported upcoming dates: Lost Canyon Ranch open space dedication, the July 22 cattle drive sculpture dedication, the July 30 Link on Demand service celebration launching a one-year pilot, and the August 4 National Night Out, with no council meeting on August 4. - Development Services reported new quasi-judicial applications, including the 607 Sixth Street demolition request, a Dawson Trails planned development amendment, an 83,000-square-foot Gold Crown Field House proposal, and the St. Francis annexation/zoning request. Staff also reviewed numerous pre-applications and continued town-initiated annexations of town-owned parcels and enclaves. - The Town Attorney previewed a future nuisance ordinance intended to give the municipal court tools to abate nuisances such as trash, debris, junk cars, and other health and safety concerns. Consent Calendar - The Council approved the Consent Calendar 6-0, including Resolution 2026-074 (second amendment to the Olsson, Inc. services agreement for the East Plum Creek Reach 5 Phase II Stabilization Supplemental Design, Bidding and Construction Services Project), Resolution 2026-075 (2026 Community Development Block Grant Annual Action Plan), and the June 16, 2026 Town Council meeting minutes. Public Comments & Testimony - Susan McAfee, a Castle Rock resident and Citizens Police Academy participant, thanked the Castle Rock Police Department for its community-oriented culture and dedication. - Callie Nichols, a resident and property owner at 880 Yucca Hills Road, expressed strong concerns about the Dawson Fields Boulevard North four-lane road and a planned adjacent battery energy storage system (BESS). She said her property is zoned agricultural/residential, the road divides her acreage, the BESS could generate 70 to 90 decibels of cooling-fan noise, and the project raises safety and property-value concerns. She asked for a sound-absorbing wall, and staff was directed to follow up. - During the Dawson Trails quasi-judicial hearing, no public speakers signed up. After the 607 Sixth Street vote, resident Luke Peach thanked the Council for past quiet-zone work and said he was proud to live in Castle Rock. Quasi-Judicial Hearings - Resolution 2026-076 – Demolition at 607 Sixth Street: Staff reported that the home was built in 1939 and is in the historic Craig and Gold District, requiring Historic Preservation Board and Council review. The Historic Preservation Board recommended approval; the partial demolition would reuse portions of the basement and first-floor framing. The Council approved the resolution 6-0. - Resolution 2026-077 – Dawson Trails Filing No. 2, Planning Area E2: Staff and the applicant presented an 8.4-acre site plan for 100 townhomes with alley access, two-car garages, a one-acre central park, a dog park, and trail connections. Staff found the plan met density requirements, was below maximum building height, and exceeded parking requirements. Planning Commission recommended approval. Councilmember Davis asked about future ADA-compliant single-story options, and Councilmember Dietz noted the larger planning area could allow up to 400 single-family units. The Council approved the site development plan 6-0. Discussion Items and Action Items - Drone Retail Delivery Regulations (DIR 2026-018): Staff said a large retailer had inquired about an 18-drone delivery facility, but drone delivery is not currently defined in the Town Code. Federal law governs airspace, so local authority is primarily over siting, setbacks, and screening. Staff cited examples in Richardson, Texas, Georgia, North Carolina, and Parker, Colorado, where communities faced neighborhood concerns or imposed moratoriums. Councilmembers supported studying the issue before permitting; Mayor Pro Tem Cavey cautioned about noise and FAA complexity; Councilmember Bracken said drone delivery will likely become common; Councilmember Brooks raised privacy, public safety, and retail vitality concerns. The Council voted 6-0 to direct staff to return within six months with an ordinance establishing a temporary moratorium on drone-port land-use applications until regulations are adopted. - Ordinance 2026-021 – Second Supplemental Budget Amendment, First Reading: Finance staff presented revenues of $56,328,954 and expenses of $4,580,996 for the amendment, noting the large revenue figure primarily reflects up to $55 million in planned water revenue bond proceeds. Items included $500,000 for bioxide and monitoring services, $307,415 for the stormwater master plan update, $375,000 for increased ColoradoScape turf-removal rebates, $100,000 for two water-department Ford F-150s, $300,000 for automated park irrigation controls, $1,250,000 for Cantrell School restoration, and school resource officer contract revenue from Douglas County School District, Academy Charter, and World Compass. Councilmember Brooks questioned the unplanned nature of several items and urged more departmental budget accountability; staff said the Cantrell School project scope expanded after design and noted the amendment involves no tax or fee increases. The Council approved the ordinance on first reading 6-0. - Resolution 2026-078 – Traffic Signal Contract at Founders Parkway and Crimson Sky Drive: Staff recommended a construction contract with Sturgeon Electric Company, Inc., the lowest of five bidders. Four traffic-signal warrants were met, primarily related to side-street delay and accident history. The total project cost is $881,762, including the $640,400 construction contract and contingency, with development contributions reducing the Town's share. Completion is projected for November 2026, and the Public Works Commission recommended approval. Mayor Pro Tem Cavey expressed frustration that CDOT continues to shift infrastructure costs to local taxpayers. The Council approved the contract 6-0. - Resolution 2026-079 – 2026 Stormwater Master Plan Update: Staff recommended a professional services agreement with Muller Engineering Company. The last master plan update was in 2017. The Town invested $84 million in stormwater infrastructure from 2003 to 2017 and another $32 million from 2017 to 2025. The update will reprioritize capital improvements, review regulatory and development criteria, and address maintenance of more than 450 detention ponds, about 320 of which are privately owned. Muller was not the lowest bid but met the detailed scope and came in significantly lower than three other bidders. The Castle Rock Water Commission recommended approval, and the Council approved the agreement 6-0. Key Outcomes - Councilmember Davis' initial motion to immediately dissolve the Design Review Board was withdrawn after discussion. The Council instead voted 3-2 to bring the DRB dissolution and transition issue back for a future staffed discussion. - Councilmember Brooks' motion to place an executive session on the next meeting calendar to discuss a potential ordinance change with legal advice passed unanimously. - The Council accepted the agenda as presented 6-0 and approved all consent items 6-0. - The Youth Commission appointment, demolition resolution, Dawson Trails site plan, drone moratorium direction, budget amendment first reading, traffic signal contract, and stormwater master plan agreement were all approved 6-0. - The Council voted 6-0 to recess to executive session under C.R.S. § 24-6-402(4)(e) to discuss negotiations regarding possible private use of Town-owned property at the Dawson Trails development. The meeting did not reconvene after the executive session.

The Castle Rock Town Council met on Tuesday, June 16, 2026, at 6:00 PM in the Town Hall Council Chambers. The meeting included council comments, appointments to boards and commissions, a public appearance on trail expansion, presentation of the 2025 audited financial reports, a legislative update, and an update on the Tallgrass water infrastructure project. The council also discussed a motion to investigate Kratom sales, approved the consent calendar, awarded community grants, and held an executive session for performance evaluations of the Town Manager and Town Attorney, resulting in salary increases. Council Comments - Mayor Gray encouraged lifting each other up, noting recent personal tragedies in the community. - Councilmember Hollingshead praised the Police Citizen Academy and the leadership group of second-year students for their community improvement ideas. - Councilmember Bracken looked forward to the 4th of July and wished everyone a safe holiday. - Councilmember Davis requested a larger flag for the top of the Rock for the 250th anniversary; staff explained that a larger flag would not withstand wind conditions on the rock and that it was too late for July 4. He also discussed parking in the county garage: after speaking with Commissioner Teal, plans were made to have nearby apartment residents park on the top floor (card-key access) and open the bottom floor to the public with improved signage. - Councilmember Brooks noted lighter traffic on Plum Creek Boulevard to I-25. - Councilmember Dietz announced the opening of the northbound on-ramp and off-ramp of the Crystal Valley interchange on the east side of I-25 on the previous Friday, already showing traffic improvements. Town Manager Corliss stated this was the Town's project, costing $145 million, and credited staff and council. - Mayor Pro Tem Cavey reminded residents of the upcoming car show (Friday/Saturday) and the Ducky Derby the following Sunday to raise funds for community needs. - Councilmember Bracken wished everyone a Happy Father's Day. - Motion to investigate Kratom sales: Councilmember Brooks moved to direct staff to investigate Kratom sales in Castle Rock, including education on what it is, benefits, potential misuses, and impact on businesses if sales were prohibited. The motion passed 7-0 (Gray, Cavey, Hollingshead, Bracken, Davis, Brooks, Dietz all yes). Appointments - APPT 2026-006: Appointments to the Design Review Board, Downtown Development Authority Board, Election Commission, and Public Art Commission were approved unanimously (7-0). Public Comments & Testimony - Jon and Mabel Lontai addressed the council on increasing trails. Jon stated that Philip S. Miller Park has 8 miles of single-track trails nearing 15 years old while Castle Rock's population has doubled. He advocated for partnering with nonprofit advocacy groups like COMBA to alleviate administrative constraints and apply for grants. He provided academic studies showing that money spent on trails generates economic value exceeding construction costs within 2-5 years. He emphasized that outdoor recreation brands are located in Castle Rock and that trails support coffee shops, retail, and hotels. He also referenced the 2025 resident survey (page 96) where walking/biking paths were mentioned most often as desired park offerings. He stated he is not against the Lost Canyon trails and is on the same team as parks and rec. Town Manager's Report - Calendar Reminders (ID 2026-070): Upcoming events included employee appreciation breakfast (June 17), Juneteenth holiday (June 19), Colorado Municipal League conference (June 17-19), mural dedication at Rio at the Rock (June 24), Independence Day celebrations, and Lost Canyon Ranch open space dedication (July 8). Staff also noted several neighborhood meetings for developments in Dawson Trails and Wellspring annexation. Presentation of 2025 Annual Comprehensive Financial Report (ACFR) and Popular Annual Financial Report (PAFR) (ID 2026-072) - Trish Muller, Director of Finance, and Janeen Hathcock of Eide Bailly (the new auditor) presented the audit results. The town received a clean, unmodified opinion—the best possible. A restatement was made for a correction of an error found by management in prior year financial statements; the opinion was not impacted. One material weakness was identified related to the restatement. No disagreements with management occurred. Councilmember Gray called it the cleanest audit in his eight audit committee meetings. Councilmember Brooks noted Eide Bailly works with the Office of the State Auditor, adding credibility. Councilmember Dietz appreciated a fresh set of eyes. The PAFR is an 18-page document summarizing financial trends and strategic priorities and is posted online. 2026 General Assembly Legislative Update (ID 2026-073) - Kristin Read, Assistant Town Manager, reported that 450 bills passed this session, 12 vetoed, resulting in 440 new laws. The town supported 11 bills, 5 passed; opposed 18, 6 signed into law. Discussion on HB 1001 (Housing Developments on Qualifying Properties): Town Manager Corliss stated he, Town Attorney Mike Hyman, and Development Services Director Tara Vargish are meeting to discuss Home Rule opt-out options. Regarding school-designated property, Corliss clarified that the Town owns the property until a school is built, then it is deeded to the school district; no reversionary instruments exist, so HB 1001 does not apply to Castle Rock’s designated school sites. Councilmember Dietz noted over 400 new laws this year. Tallgrass Infrastructure Development and Water Lease Agreement Update (ID 2026-074) - Mark Marlowe, Director of Castle Rock Water, provided an update. The project involves the Lost Creek/Box Elder basins in Weld County. Phase I infrastructure (11 wells, 9 miles of collection piping, control systems) is nearly complete. The Town will purchase Phase I for $15 million (budgeted) because a deadline for Phase 1B and 2 could not be met due to new information that the East Cherry Creek Valley Water Treatment Plant cannot treat Castle Rock’s water (groundwater under the influence of surface water). Options now include treating water on site and piping it south, or partnering with Aurora Water to use a regional desalination facility. Marlowe explained that building separate desalination facilities would be costly: a 12 million gallon-per-day plant costs $270M. The Town holds 22% of the WISE project, so a regional facility (e.g., with Aurora and WISE) would be cheaper. Councilmember Dietz asked about the BB Draw watershed area; Marlowe clarified that groundwater there is not under surface water influence, so that plant can treat it, but Castle Rock’s water is different. Mayor Pro Tem Cavey asked about desalination costs: Marlowe stated a regional facility would be less than $270M, but specific costs are not yet ready for public release. Consent Calendar - Items approved unanimously (7-0): - ORD 2026-019: Repealing and reenacting Chapter 2.01 of the Municipal Code regarding conduct of Town elections (Second Reading). - RES 2026-071: Services agreement with Tetra Tech, Inc. for Phase VI of the SCADA Master Plan Design Project. - RES 2026-072: Waiving formal written bidding on a sole-source basis and approving an on-call equipment and service agreement with Evoqua Water Technologies LLC. - RES 2026-073: True-up payment for WISE DIA Connection Project invoice from South Metro WISE Authority. - PROC 2026-010: Proclamation for Smart Irrigation Month – July 2026 (presentation scheduled for July 7, 2026). - MIN 2026-017: Approval of minutes from June 2, 2026 Town Council meeting. Discussion/Direction: Council Community Grant Program – Second Quarter Applicants (DIR 2026-017) - Trish Muller presented the program overview. The council increased the total grant pool to $20,000 (from $16,000) in December 2025. Quarter one awarded $3,000, leaving $17,000 available. Three eligible applicants were considered for $1,000 each: - Castle Country Assisted Living (Castle Rock nonprofit): Funds for outdoor therapeutic space improvements at Valley House. - Agewise Colorado (Denver-based, seeking to expand to Castle Rock): Funds to increase local awareness and grow monthly users from 56 to 100. - A Precious Child (Broomfield-based, serves Castle Rock children): Funds for the Resource Bridge program. - Bob Braker of Agewise Colorado spoke, highlighting their free website with vetted service providers (1,400+) and monthly webinars. He left informational cards. - Councilmember Brooks confirmed that if five Castle Rock-based applicants had applied, out-of-town applicants would not have been considered. Mayor Pro Tem Cavey noted three applicants were referred to the Public Art Commission. The motion to approve funding as presented passed 7-0. Key Outcomes - Kratom investigation: Council directed staff to investigate Kratom sales and report back (motion passed 7-0). - Board appointments: Approved unanimously. - Tallgrass Phase I purchase: The Town will proceed with the $15 million purchase of Phase I infrastructure; negotiations for Phases 1B and 2 will continue with potential Aurora partnership. - Audit acceptance: The 2025 ACFR and PAFR were accepted with commendation. - Community grants: $1,000 each to Castle Country Assisted Living, Agewise Colorado, and A Precious Child, approved 7-0. - Executive Session: After recess (7:12 PM – 8:15 PM), the council voted 7-0 to award the Town Attorney a 6% raise and the Town Manager a 9% raise. - Meeting adjourned at 8:16 PM.