Public Meetings - Castle Rock, Colorado

The provided transcript does not contain any city meeting proceedings. Instead, it is an informal conversation about laundry detergent, specifically discussing the water content of bargain detergent versus Tide Pods. No agenda, minutes, or formal discussion was available for this meeting. Consent Calendar - No items were presented. Public Comments & Testimony - No members of the public addressed the meeting. Discussion Items - The sole recorded discussion was a non-agenda exchange about household cleaning products, with no relevance to city governance. Key Outcomes - No votes, decisions, or actions were taken. The transcript appears to be unrelated to any official city meeting.

No agenda, minutes, or transcript were provided for this meeting. Therefore, no summary of discussions, decisions, or public comments can be generated. The meeting timestamp indicates it occurred on 2022-12-14 at 20:15 UTC.

This meeting marked the conclusion of the 2020-2022 Town Council term, followed by the swearing-in of newly elected councilmembers and the organizational meeting for the new term. The council approved consent items, recognized outgoing Councilmember Caryn Johnson, heard public comments on speed humps and construction debris, approved an additional holiday for town employees, elected a Mayor Pro Tem, and approved the 2021 CDBG Annual Performance Report. Councilmember Desiree LaFleur was absent due to the passing of her father. Consent Calendar - Approved unanimously (6-0, LaFleur absent): - Ordinance 2022-031: Agricultural lease agreement between Town and Rupple Farms, LLC (Second Reading). - Resolution 2022-132: Amendment No. One to Town Manager employment agreement (David L. Corliss). - Resolution 2022-133: Amendment No. One to Town Attorney employment agreement (Michael J. Hyman). - Resolution 2022-134: Resolution regarding Town’s retirement plans and related matters. - Resolution 2022-135: Dissolution of Crystal Valley Metropolitan District No. 1 and partial termination of master intergovernmental agreement. - Minutes 2022-020: November 15, 2022 Town Council meeting. Public Comments & Testimony - Nick Metz (resident at 2nd and Gilbert): Expressed concerns about new speed humps on Gilbert Street, citing unacceptable noise from large trucks, vehicles gearing down, screeching brakes, and vehicles using fire department cutouts to avoid humps. He recommended removal based on public safety experience and reports. Staff to follow up. - Pam Ridler (former Chamber CEO) and Stacy Garmon (new CEO, Castle Rock Chamber of Commerce): Introduced Garmon, a former small business owner and former chamber staff, who expressed interest in working with the council. - Kevin Davis (resident, 4.5 years): Complained that construction waste from nearby Richmond site blows into his yard. He cited municipal code 8.20.020 requiring property owners to contain debris and asked why code is not enforced. Town Manager Corliss acknowledged the issue and said staff will work with developers and consider citations. Mayor Gray asked for an offline update. - Annamarie Englehard (online resident): Thanked outgoing Councilmember Johnson for her service, stating Johnson interacted with residents, represented their concerns, and brought a renewed spirit to the council. Discussion Items - Proclamation of Commendation to Councilmember Caryn Johnson: Town Manager Corliss read the proclamation recognizing her four years of service (District 5), including focus on responsible growth, open space, historic preservation, fire/police support, reuse water, traffic impacts, transparency, wildfire protection plan, development impact fees, and lodging tax. Johnson was presented with a framed proclamation, a plaque, and an engraved clock. Johnson delivered parting remarks quoting Elizabeth Shaw, Ralph Waldo Emerson, and Robert Baden-Powell, and expressed hope she left the town better than she found it. - Adjournment of the 2020-2022 Town Council: Unanimous vote to adjourn. - Swearing-in of Elected Councilmembers: Judge Gresh administered oaths to Mayor Jason Gray (re-elected), Councilmember Kevin Bracken (re-elected), and new Councilmember Max Brooks (elected November 8, 2022). Brooks thanked 2,844 District 5 voters and family. - Approval of Additional Holiday for Town Employees: Motion by Mayor Pro Tem Bracken, seconded by Councilmember Hollingshead, to add December 23, 2022 as a town holiday, with cost approximately $50,000 as estimated by staff. Passed unanimously (6-0). - Election of Mayor Pro Tem: Councilmember Bracken expressed interest. Mayor Gray and Councilmember Hollingshead voiced support. Secret ballot resulted in 4 votes for Bracken, 1 for Laura Cavey, and 1 abstention. Bracken elected to serve a two-year term until December 2024. - Resolution 2022-136: Approving the Town of Castle Rock’s 2021 Consolidated Annual Performance and Evaluation Report (CAPER) for the Community Development Block Grant (CDBG) Program. Director Tara Vargish presented: the town’s first year as an entitlement jurisdiction. Two priority needs: improving public facilities (Butterfield Park ADA restroom renovations, serving over 3,325 low/moderate-income persons) and support services (expanded senior center hot meal delivery, serving an additional 57 socially isolated elderly). Actual expenditures were about $32,000 under budget, to be rolled into program year 2022. Public comment period was November 16 to December 6 with no comments received. Motion to approve passed unanimously (6-0). Key Outcomes - Consent Calendar and agenda accepted unanimously (6-0). - Outgoing Councilmember Caryn Johnson recognized and commended. - New council (Mayor Gray, Councilmembers Bracken, Cavey, Hollingshead, Brooks, Dietz) seated; LaFleur absent. - December 23, 2022 approved as an additional paid holiday for town employees. - Kevin Bracken elected Mayor Pro Tem for a two-year term. - 2021 CDBG CAPER approved; staff to submit to HUD by December 29, 2022. - Staff directed to follow up on speed hump concerns and construction debris enforcement.

Note: The provided transcript does not contain actual meeting proceedings (it consists of non-meeting text). The agenda included is dated November 1, 2022, while the user specifies the meeting date as November 30, 2022. No minutes are available. Therefore, no substantive discussion, decisions, or votes can be reported. Agenda Items (as listed for November 1, 2022 meeting) - Invocation, Call to Order, Pledge, Council Comments, Unscheduled Public Appearances, Town Manager's Report (multiple updates), Town Attorney's Report, Acceptance of Agenda, Consent Calendar (items 8–12), Advertised Public Hearings (items 13–14), Additional Unscheduled Public Appearances, Adjourn. Key Outcomes - No outcomes can be determined from the provided source material. The meeting content is not present in the transcript.

The Castle Rock Town Council met on November 15, 2022, at 6:00 PM in Town Hall Council Chambers. The meeting included a proclamation, an appointment, public comments, a contentious debate on political rhetoric from the dais, a budget amendment, the purchase of the historic Cantril School building, approval of the 2023 Philip S. Miller Resource Grant Program, an agricultural lease, and an executive session for performance evaluations. All regular votes passed unanimously (7-0) except one motion. Consent Calendar - Ordinance 2022-029 (Second Reading) – Amending eminent domain authority for the Crystal Valley Interchange project (Hyperian Fund property). - Resolution 2022-129 – Purchase agreement with McCandless Truck Center for one dump/snow removal truck. - Resolution 2022-130 – Waiving formal bidding for sole-source Calgon Carbon filter media replacement at Plum Creek Water Purification Facility. - Minutes of the November 1, 2022 Town Council meeting. Public Comments & Testimony - Traffic Safety on North Meadows Drive: Residents Michael Beermann, Jeff Douglas, and Chris Visaya described serious accidents, speeding (40–50 mph in a 15 mph zone), and risks to children and pedestrians near a walking trail. They requested traffic calming measures. Town Manager David Corliss said the Public Works director would follow up through the existing Traffic Calming Program. - Bruce Johnson (husband of Councilmember Caryn Johnson): Thanked the town and citizens for his wife’s service, defended her record, and criticized her opponent’s campaign mailer for misrepresentations. He also noted that Councilmember Johnson donated her salary to downtown businesses during COVID and read traffic studies in detail. Discussion Items - Council Comments & Motion on Political Rhetoric: Councilmember Johnson delivered a lengthy statement accusing the Mayor and some council members of favoritism, allowing personal attacks, and permitting campaigning from the dais. She made a motion to direct staff to place an ordinance on the December 6 agenda prohibiting political rhetoric, partisan issues, or campaigning from the dais. The motion was seconded by Councilmember Dietz. After debate, the motion failed 3-4 (Yes: Cavey, Johnson, Dietz; No: Gray, Bracken, Hollingshead, LaFleur). Councilmember Dietz then accused Mayor Pro Tem Bracken of lying about Dietz’s support for a homeless shelter; Bracken pointed to a video recording of the May 12 Homeless Initiative meeting. - Proclamation: Mayor Gray proclaimed November 26, 2022, as Small Business Saturday. - Appointment: Daniel Steixner was appointed to the Board of Building Appeals for a term ending May 31, 2024 (7-0 vote). - Town Manager’s Report: - Calendar reminders: Upcoming events, open houses, holiday closures, and the December 6 meeting with group photos at 5:00 PM. - Monthly Department Reports and Development Services project updates. - Third Quarter Financial Review (through September 30, 2022): Sales tax revenue remains strong; building permit slowdown lowers impact fees; some capital projects may need re-prioritization. Conservative fiscal management allows special projects like the Cantril building purchase. - Town Attorney’s Report – Dawson Ridge Metropolitan District No. 1 Bond Issuance: The district proposes issuing $85 million in Limited Tax General Obligation Bonds (capital appreciation bonds, convertible) at 7.5% over 30 years. The funds will finance public improvements, including $50 million for the Crystal Valley Interchange project. Staff reviewed and confirmed compliance with the service plan; no public comment; council allowed the issuance to proceed. - Ordinance 2022-030 – Fourth Amendment to the 2022 Budget (Emergency Adoption): Supplemental appropriations totaling $12.6 million, primarily for the purchase of the Cantril building ($4 million), water projects, fire mitigation, and a new fire apparatus. Approved 7-0 on first and final reading. - Resolution 2022-131 – Purchase of Cantril School (312 Cantril Street): The town will buy the historic 1887 school building (2-acre block) from Douglas County School District for $3,525,000, based on an independent appraisal. The building is on the National Register of Historic Places. The town will have 60 days of due diligence, lease the building back to the school district through early 2023, and hold a community open house on November 30. $500,000 was set aside for capital and operating costs. Approved 7-0. - Discussion/Direction – 2023 Philip S. Miller Resource Grant Program: The Public Safety Commission recommended $45,000 in grants: $5,000 to American Legion Post 1187, $17,500 to the Crisis Center, $17,500 to Help and Hope Center, and $5,000 to New Hope Presbyterian Church. Councilmember Cavey noted the high need for food assistance. The motion to direct staff to proceed with the recommendations passed 7-0. - Ordinance 2022-031 – Agricultural Lease with Rupple Farms, LLC (First Reading): The town owns 850 acres in Weld County as part of the Box Elder water project. The lease continues farming and livestock operations; generates $14,608 in annual income plus reimbursement for water assessments. Water Commission and staff recommended approval. Approved 7-0 on first reading. - Executive Session: The council recessed at 7:23 PM to hold an executive session for the annual performance evaluations of the Town Manager and Town Attorney, as permitted by Colorado law. The session concluded at 9:10 PM. Key Outcomes - Failed Motion: The motion to direct staff to create an ordinance restricting political rhetoric, partisan issues, and campaigning from the dais failed 3-4. - All Other Votes Passed Unanimously (7-0): Consent Calendar, Board of Building Appeals appointment, budget amendment (emergency adoption), Cantril building purchase, grant program recommendations, agricultural lease, and executive session report. - Executive Session Outcome: Council directed the placement of a resolution on the December 6 consent calendar to approve contract amendments for the Town Manager (5% salary increase effective June 1, 2022) and Town Attorney (4.5% salary increase effective July 2, 2022), along with vacation accrual and legally required amendments. The motion passed 7-0. - Adjournment: The meeting adjourned at 9:11 PM.

The Castle Rock Town Council met on Tuesday, November 1, 2022, at 6:00 PM in Town Hall Council Chambers. The meeting included council comments, unscheduled public appearances, a town manager's report, approval of a consent calendar, and two advertised public hearings. All votes were unanimous (7-0) on items requiring action. Consent Calendar - Approved a proclamation supporting Small Business Saturday (to be presented on November 15, 2022). - Approved a construction contract with O-A-K Colorado, LLC for the Town Hall Office Renovation Project (100 N. Wilcox Street). - Approved a spot water lease agreement between the Town of Castle Rock and Central Colorado Conservancy District (Chatfield Reservoir). - Approved the staff appointment of Heather Justus to the Cherry Creek Project Water Authority (CCPWA) as Board Alternate. - Approved the minutes of the October 18, 2022 Town Council meeting. Public Comments & Testimony - Jeff Samuelson (long-term resident, former downtown business owner, current downtown property owner) expressed concern about a campaign mailer he received regarding the Design Review Board. He asked for clarification on claims made in the mailer. Town Manager David Corliss stated staff does not get involved in campaigns. Councilmembers noted the mailer contained misinformation. Councilmember Dietz argued that the Design Review Board should not have final approval on development projects and that council should be able to vote on downtown projects. Mayor Pro Tem Bracken responded that the majority of council had approved the Design Review Board process twice. - Frank Gray (CEO of the Economic Development Council) and Tom Wiens (Owner/President of FirstTier Bank) presented a check to the Town Manager for repayment of loans offered to Castle Rock businesses during the COVID-19 shutdown. The Town put down $400,000, which leveraged over $2 million in loans to 24 Castle Rock businesses. Wiens noted this as another example of how things work in Castle Rock. Mayor Gray and Mayor Pro Tem Bracken thanked the partners for their support. Discussion Items - Council Comments: Councilmember Cavey thanked staff for the Crowfoot widening open house and cautioned voters about a ballot measure on psychedelic drugs that does not allow counties or municipalities to opt out. Councilmember LaFleur gave a shout-out for the Metzler Ranch open space dedication. Councilmember Johnson thanked Parks and Rec for the Mitchell Gulch Park event. Councilmember Dietz thanked Fire and Police. Mayor Pro Tem Bracken discussed the Traffic Calming program review and made a motion directing staff to provide options for a permitted parking program in residential areas (motion passed 7-0). Councilmember Cavey asked about resident costs for permits; Corliss noted costs likely low. - Town Manager's Report: David Corliss updated the council on calendar reminders, a staff review of the Traffic Calming program (noting an uptick in complaints), third quarter major projects, and development services project updates from Tara Vargish (Director of Development Services) including pre-applications for Dawson Trails, Douglas County Fairgrounds, Grandmere Plaza, and a Verizon Wireless facility. Corliss also reported that the lights over Wilcox Street are down due to a pole cracking and staff are working to have them up by Starlighting. - Development Services Project Updates: Tara Vargish provided updates on upcoming neighborhood meetings (Avila at Founders Village, Perry Street Social Club, and a home on Center Drive) and pre-applications including removal of existing infrastructure, early grading, and platting for Dawson Trails; a rezoning request for the Douglas County Fairgrounds; a dry storage building at 5203 South Gilbert Street; an addition to the Castle Rock Autoplex; subdivision of Grandmere Plaza (Pizza Hut); a facade amendment for Hampton Inn; and a new wireless facility on an Excel transmission tower at Sapphire Point. - Quasi-Judicial Projects: Vargish reported receipt of an annexation petition for Wellspring and Castle Oaks Church (2.07 acres at 498 East Wolfensburger Road). - Residential Unit Data & Undeveloped Property Inquiries: Updates provided through September 30, 2022 and October 24, 2022 respectively. Key Outcomes - Motion to Direct Staff on Permitted Parking: Passed 7-0. Staff will provide options for a residential permit parking program, including parameters, costs, and enforcement. - Consent Calendar: Approved 7-0. - Ordinance 2022-029 (Eminent Domain for Crystal Valley Interchange – Hyperian Fund Property): Approved on first reading 7-0. This authorizes the town to proceed with appraisal and negotiation; if needed, staff will return to council for formal condemnation. The project timeline aims for a purchase and sale agreement by March 2023. - Resolution 2022-128 (Sole Source Contract with W.W. Wheeler & Associates): Approved 7-0. The contract is for the Lawn Irrigation Return Flows Quantification Project, expected to yield up to 955 acre-feet of water rights at an estimated cost of $870 per acre-foot over three phases. Phase two will be conducted in 2023. - Meeting Adjourned: At 7:39 PM. Additional Notes - Mayor Gray encouraged residents to vote and urged civility among council members. - Cub Scout Troop 781 led the Pledge of Allegiance. - The town manager congratulated Mark Marlowe (Director of Castle Rock Water) on gaining 300 new customers at Bell Mountain Ranch.

The Castle Rock Town Council met on Tuesday, October 18, 2022, at 6:00 PM in the Town Hall Council Chambers. Six councilmembers were present (Mayor Gray, Mayor Pro Tem Bracken, Councilmembers Cavey, LaFleur, Johnson, Dietz); Councilmember Hollingshead was absent. The meeting included an invocation, pledge of allegiance, council comments, consent calendar, several public hearings, and park improvement items. All votes were unanimous except for the vacation of a portion of Brookside Circle (5-1). Consent Calendar - Ordinance 2022-028: Third amendment to the 2022 fiscal year budget (supplemental appropriations). Approved on second reading (7-0 on first reading). - Resolution 2022-114: Purchase and sale of Ridgegate Pipeline Capacity with Stonegate Village Metropolitan District. - Resolution 2022-115: Sole source contract with Hydro Resources - Rocky Mountain, Inc. for drilling East Plum Creek Open Space Wells. - Resolution 2022-116: Renewal of stop loss insurance contract with Cigna for 2023. - Minutes 2022-017: Approval of October 4, 2022 meeting minutes. All items approved unanimously (6-0). Public Comments & Testimony No members of the public spoke during Unscheduled Public Appearances or during any of the public hearing items. Appointments - Public Works Commission: Greg Myers was appointed for a partial term ending May 31, 2024, following a unanimous recommendation from the interview panel. Motion passed 6-0. Council Comments & Debate - Small Business Saturday: Mayor Gray moved to draft a proclamation in support of Small Business Saturday (November 26, 2022). Motion passed 6-0. - The Barn Rumors: Mayor Gray addressed social media rumors that The Barn was being sold for a high-rise, stating the owner, Kathy Haig, has no plans to sell and is upset by the false claims. - Councilmember Dietz: Gave a lengthy statement criticizing the council majority, claiming a lack of due process, and accusing the council of ignoring citizen concerns. He referenced downtown development, homelessness, and the chamber's candidate forum. - Mayor Pro Tem Bracken: Responded to Dietz, challenging him on homelessness positions and offering to debate his opponent. He also noted that a cease-and-desist letter may be sent regarding slander of The Barn. - Other Announcements: Councilmember Cavey reminded of the Crowfoot Valley Road widening open house (Oct 27). Councilmember LaFleur explained the town's process for protecting iconic buildings. Councilmember Johnson announced the Mitchell Gulch Park renovation kickoff (Oct 25). Discussion Items 1. Ordinance 2022-027: Vacation of Portion of Brookside Circle (Second Reading) - Purpose: Allow Foundation Auto Group to install a cul-de-sac at the end of Brookside Circle. - Councilmember Dietz explained his 'no' vote on first reading was due to lack of compensation. He voted 'no' again. Motion passed 5-1 (Dietz opposed). 2. Resolution 2022-117: Downtown Historic Preservation Grant ($25,000 to Castle Rock Chamber Foundation) - Purpose: Grant for exterior repairs to the Chamber of Commerce building at 420 Jerry Street (Victoria's House). The grant is a reimbursement, funded annually with $50,000, up to $25,000 per project. The property is locally landmarked and will be encumbered by a preservation easement. - Support: Councilmembers Johnson, LaFleur, and Bracken spoke in favor. Motion passed 6-0. 3. Ordinance 2022-025: Amending Landscape and Irrigation Criteria Manual (Second Reading) - Purpose: Adopt 2022 Town of Castle Rock Landscape and Irrigation Criteria Manual to support water sustainability. Key provisions: no turf in front yards, max 500 sq ft turf in backyards for new homes; homebuilders must provide a ColoradoScape design for backyards; water budgets set based on design. Prorated fees for builders installing both front and back landscapes (0.6 to 1.0). - Discussion: Councilmember LaFleur asked about front vs. backyard turf rationale. Mayor Gray noted positive feedback from other municipalities. Motion passed 6-0. 4. Resolution 2022-118: Flexnet Infrastructure and Regional Network Interface Software (Advanced Metering Infrastructure) - Purpose: Install base stations and software for advanced water meter reading, enabling real-time usage alerts, leak detection, and conservation. Total cost: $154,000 for base stations plus $77,000 for installation. This is the first step of a multi-year $9-10 million project to upgrade all meters. - Discussion: Councilmember Cavey asked about data transmission and alerts. Motion passed 6-0. 5. Resolution 2022-119: Purchase of Velocity Pumper Truck for Future Station 156 - Purpose: Purchase a fire engine for the planned Terrain/Cobblestone Ranch station (opening late 2025/early 2026). Cost $1,026,000 with 5% contingency; pre-payment saves $48,000. Supply chain delays (30-31 month delivery) and anticipated price increases (6.5% on Nov 1, 13-15% on Jan 1) prompted early approval. - Discussion: Councilmember Johnson asked about location (southwest corner of Castle Oaks and Rocky View). Motion passed 6-0. 6. Resolutions 2022-120, 121, 122: Mitchell Gulch Park Renovation - Resolution 2022-120: Construction contract with Colorado Designscapes, Inc. for $3,211,000 (base contract, tennis, parking, security). Total project cost $3,533,162.05. - Resolution 2022-121: Sole source contract with Renner Sport Surfaces for tennis court renovation ($820,000), saving $74,000 by contracting directly. - Resolution 2022-122: Sole source contract with Landscape Structures for playground equipment ($392,725.52), saving $28,000 through cooperative purchasing via Sourcewell. - Background: Mitchell Gulch Park is a priority renovation based on resident surveys and safety needs. Improvements include new playgrounds, six tennis courts, bike pump track, fitness area, restrooms, parking, and ADA accessibility. 66% of visitors walk to the park; 50% visit 1-2 times per week. - Discussion: Councilmember Johnson noted resident requests for basketball court resurfacing and bike racks (to be included via contingency). All three resolutions passed 6-0. 7. Resolution 2022-123: Memorandum of Understanding with CD-Acme, LLC (Confluence Companies) for Recreation Center at Acme Brickyard - Purpose: Non-binding MOU to define relationship for planning and constructing a third recreation center (sports development center) at the old Acme Brickyard site west of I-25. Key points: Town controls facility decisions; Confluence serves as general contractor and provides owner's representative services; Confluence dedicates approximately 11 acres; Town ground leases property back; Town makes lease payments until debt retired; Confluence may provide private financing. Estimated facility cost between $63-67 million, funded by impact fees. - Discussion: Councilmembers asked about comparisons to other communities, cost escalation, owner's representative role, road infrastructure (Prairie Hawk connection, Crystal Valley Interchange), and land dedication requirements. Town Manager Corliss explained the MOU is non-binding and that the schematic design (next item) is portable to other sites. Motion passed 6-0. 8. Resolution 2022-124: Third Amendment to Service Agreement with Barker Rinker Seacat Architecture for Schematic Design Phase - Purpose: Authorize $176,650 for schematic design of the recreation center, covering facility programming, cost estimates, engineering, and renderings. Total fees to date: $632,919. Work is portable to alternative sites if the Brickyard deal does not proceed. - Discussion: Councilmember Johnson emphasized the facility should have a unique town look and feel. Motion passed 6-0. 9. Resolution 2022-125: Construction Contract for Metzler Family Open Space Trailhead Parking - Purpose: Build a 54-space parking lot at Maleta Lane and East Allen Street intersection to serve the donated 60-acre open space. Contract with Schmidt Construction Company for $1,135,039.20 plus 10% contingency ($1,248,543.20 total). Completion expected February 2023, weather permitting. Other improvements (soft surface trails, silo restoration, signage) are complete or underway. - Discussion: Councilmember LaFleur asked about parking for the upcoming open house (shuttles will be used). Motion passed 6-0. Key Outcomes - Consent Calendar: Approved unanimously (6-0). - Appointment: Greg Myers to Public Works Commission (6-0). - Proclamation: Small Business Saturday to be drafted. - Ordinance 2022-027: Vacation of Brookside Circle approved (5-1, Dietz opposed). - Resolution 2022-117: $25,000 Downtown Historic Preservation Grant approved (6-0). - Ordinance 2022-025: New Landscape and Irrigation Criteria Manual adopted (6-0). - Resolution 2022-118: Advanced metering infrastructure approved (6-0). - Resolution 2022-119: Fire pumper truck purchase approved (6-0). - Resolutions 2022-120, 121, 122: Mitchell Gulch Park renovation contracts approved (6-0 each). - Resolution 2022-123: Non-binding MOU with CD-Acme for recreation center approved (6-0). - Resolution 2022-124: Schematic design phase for recreation center approved (6-0). - Resolution 2022-125: Metzler Family Open Space parking lot construction approved (6-0). - Meeting adjourned: 8:24 PM.

The Castle Rock Town Council met on Tuesday, October 4, 2022, at 6:00 PM in the Town Hall Council Chambers. The meeting included an executive session, proclamation, consent calendar, and several advertised public hearings and action items. Council approved a resolution supporting the Douglas County School District's mill levy override and bond initiatives, adopted the five-year Capital Improvement Program and Balanced Financial Plan, approved a construction contract for the Colorado Front Range Trail, established designated truck routes, and advanced a right-of-way vacation. Consent Calendar - Ordinance 2022-021 (Second Reading): Adopted the 2023 Fiscal Year Budget for the Town of Castle Rock. - Ordinance 2022-022 (Second Reading): Amended stormwater development impact fees, water and stormwater rates, and meter set fees. - Ordinance 2022-023 (Second Reading): Levied general property taxes for the Town for 2022, to be collected in 2023. - Ordinance 2022-024 (Second Reading): Levied general property taxes on behalf of the Castle Rock Downtown Development Authority for 2022, to be collected in 2023. - Resolution 2022-108: Appointed directors to the Boards of Directors of Dawson Ridge Metropolitan District Nos. 1 and 5. - Minutes 2022-016: Approved minutes from September 6 and September 20, 2022 Town Council meetings. All consent items were approved unanimously (7-0) with no discussion. Public Comments & Testimony No public comments were received during the Unscheduled Public Appearances or during any of the advertised public hearings. Discussion Items - Resolution 2022-109: Council expressed support for the Douglas County School District’s 2022 Mill Levy Override and Bond Initiatives (5A and 5B). Councilmember Cavey voted no; the resolution passed 6-1. - Resolution 2022-110 and 2022-111: Town Manager Dave Corliss presented the 2023-2027 Five-Year Capital Improvement Program (CIP) and Balanced Financial Plan (BFP). Highlights included a 35% increase in police and 39% increase in fire department budgets over five years, and funding for transportation projects through impact fees. Council discussed the need for state funding for the Crystal Valley Interchange with CDOT. Both resolutions passed unanimously (7-0). - Ordinance 2022-028 (First Reading): Approved the Third Amendment to the 2022 Fiscal Year Budget, increasing budgeted revenues by $3.8 million and expenditures by $12.8 million, including funds for trail improvements, park construction, and drainage improvements. The budget remains balanced. Passed unanimously (7-0). - Resolution 2022-112: Approved a $6.43 million construction contract with Native Sun Materials Inc. d/b/a Native Sun Construction for the Colorado Front Range Trail project. The trail will be five miles of 10-foot-wide concrete, connecting sections through Castle Rock. Funding includes a $2 million Connect Initiative grant. Passed unanimously (7-0). - Resolution 2022-113: Established designated truck routes to limit heavy truck traffic adjacent to residential areas. Discussion noted the estimated truck traffic increase was less than 3% of total volume. Councilmember Johnson voted no; passed 6-1. - Ordinance 2022-027 (First Reading): Vacated a 2.5-acre, 50-foot-wide unimproved portion of Brookside Circle right-of-way owned by Foundation Automotive Group to facilitate redevelopment. Councilmember Dietz voted no; passed 6-1. Key Outcomes - Votes: - Support for school district initiatives: 6-1 in favor. - Five-Year CIP and Balanced Financial Plan: both 7-0. - Third budget amendment (first reading): 7-0. - Front Range Trail contract: 7-0. - Truck routes: 6-1 (Johnson opposed). - Brookside Circle vacation (first reading): 6-1 (Dietz opposed). - Next Steps: Staff to implement truck route signage; design and construction of Front Range Trail to begin fall 2022 with completion by September 2023; further budget amendments as needed; continued pursuit of funding for Crystal Valley Interchange.

The Castle Rock Town Council met on September 20, 2022, starting at 6:05 PM and adjourning at 10:13 PM, with recesses for the Urban Renewal Authority and Festival Park Commons GID meetings. The council adopted the 2023 fiscal year budget on first reading, approved water rate increases, a new landscape and irrigation manual limiting turf in new developments, a construction contract for police department renovations, and numerous resolutions and ordinances. Key votes included a 6-1 decision to place a resolution supporting Douglas County School District ballot measures 5A and 5B on the October 4 agenda, and a 6-1 vote to adopt truck route restrictions on second reading. Public Comments & Testimony - George Wood (resident since 1978, business owner): Expressed safety concerns about recent road work on Gilbert Street that forces vehicles to go right but requires crossing a double yellow line to turn left. He stated if any drivers get into an accident, he will hold the town responsible. Mayor Gray directed staff to follow up and report to council. - Don Stork (resident): Thanked council for opening with prayer and the 'In God We Trust' display. Voiced opposition to a recent Drag Queen show, stating it should be an 18+ event without children. - Shawn L'Esperance (resident): Expressed overwhelming support from her family and neighbors for the construction of Plum Creek North Park, noting the neighborhood lacks a park and is grateful the town purchased the land and included it in the 2023 budget. - Morgan Cullen (Home Builders Association of Metro Denver): Supported water conservation but opposed requiring builders to install backyard landscaping and the associated $15,000 fee for homeowners not using builders. Requested an exemption for alley-loaded garages (Exhibit A). - Tom Warnke (Water Commission member): Stated the ordinance does not make builders responsible for backyards but offers an incentive. Emphasized the program will reduce summer water use by 10 million gallons and eliminate the need for more infrastructure. - Matt Valence (Taylor Morrison, speaking as resident): Supported water conservation methods but argued the fee credit withholding is punitive and not reflective of true administrative costs. Asked to remove the backyard installation requirement and use a master template for communities instead of individual lot submittals. Discussion Items - 2023 Budget Overview (David Corliss): The $315.3 million budget reflects council priorities: public safety, transportation, water, parks and recreation, economic development, conservative finances, and preserving community character. The operating budget is a 7.75% increase over 2022, with a 6% sales tax growth estimate. Property tax mill levy remains at 1.139 mills. A shift of 4.46% of sales tax from Transportation to General Fund ($3M annually) is proposed. Top infrastructure priority is Crystal Valley Interchange. Parks include renovation of Butterfield and Mitchell Gulch parks, construction of Plum Creek North Park, and synthetic turf at Matney Park. Compensation includes 4% increase for general staff and 7.5% for public safety. No health insurance premium increases. - Water Rates and Fees (Mark Marlowe): Proposed 4.5% water rate increase ($1.73 average), 7.5% water resources increase ($2 average), 0% wastewater increase, and 4.5% stormwater increase (33 cents). System development fees increase 10-15%. Total average residential bill increase of 3.9% ($4). Rate increases needed for next four years to fund capital projects like Castle Rock Reservoir 2 ($19M), WISE investments, and doubling water purification capacity. Councilmember Bracken confirmed rates are compounding and could decrease if expenses decline. - Property Tax Mill Levy (Trish Muller): Mill levy remains at 1.139 mills due to preliminary assessment increase below 5.5%. Average home pays $35/year to the town. - Service Contract Funding Requests: Presentations from Chamber of Commerce (Pam Ridler, Kris Brader), Downtown Development Authority/Downtown Merchants Association (Kevin Tilson), Economic Development Council (Frank Gray), Castle Rock Museum (Ron Clausen), Senior Center (Debbi Haynie), Douglas County Community Foundation (Michael Waid), Douglas County Housing Partnership (Maria Ciano), and Douglas County Youth Initiative (Councilmember Dietz as liaison). Council directed the Town Manager to execute contracts for requested amounts. - Downtown Enhancement Grant Program (Kevin Tilson): Proposed program funded from DDA special fund ($100,000/year) to support small-scale development (projects at least $250,000, max grant $50,000 or 2.5% of cost). Preference for locally owned businesses, must receive building permit within 12 months. Examples: Scileppi's expansion, Perry Street Social historic preservation. Council approved the program. - Police Department Improvements (Matt Gohl, Chief Cauley): Construction contract with MW Golden for $1,956,342 (including contingency) for ADA accessibility improvements on first floor and basement renovations (lockers, fitness space, quiet rooms, restrooms). Funded by $2M TABOR surplus. Expected 7-month construction. Councilmember Cavey noted a new station may be needed eventually. - Community Grant Program (Trish Muller): Four applications each for $500: A Precious Child, Castle Rock Band, Clothes to Kids Denver, Douglas County High Schools Academic and Athletic Association. Council awarded grants. - Truck Routes Ordinance (Dan Sailer): Second reading of ordinance defining truck routes to protect pavement lifespan and quality of life. Trucks over 10,000 lbs restricted to recommended routes (Highway 86, Ridge Road, Plum Creek Parkway, Wolfensberger). Final route resolution to come October 4. Approved 6-1 (Councilmember Johnson opposed). - Landscape and Irrigation Criteria Manual (Mark Marlowe): First reading of ordinance limiting turf to 500 sq ft in backyards, eliminating front yard turf for new homes, and eliminating non-functional turf on commercial properties. Effective for new houses permitted after January 1, 2023. Incentives for builders to install front and back yards. Estimated water savings of over 1,600 acre-feet. Councilmember Cavey expressed concerns about homeowner compliance and HOA issues, citing Macanta. Councilmember Hollingshead considered a percentage approach but staff recommended 500 sq ft. Mayor Pro Tem Bracken supported the move as necessary for water conservation. Councilapproved 7-0. Key Outcomes - Resolution of Support for School District Ballot Measures 5A and 5B: Motion to place a resolution on the October 4 agenda passed 6-1 (Councilmember Cavey opposed, citing conflicts of interest and jurisdictional concerns; Town Attorney Hyman stated it is an authorized practice). - Plum Creek North Park Construction in 2023: Motion by Councilmember Dietz to ensure the park is built in 2023 passed 7-0. - Executive Session for Property Acquisition: Motion to hold an executive session on October 4 at 5:30 PM passed 7-0. - 2023 Budget (First Reading): Ordinance 2022-021 passed 7-0. - Stormwater/Water/Wastewater Rate Changes (First Reading): Ordinance 2022-022 passed 7-0. - Property Tax Levy Ordinance (First Reading): Ordinance 2022-023 passed 6-0 (Councilmember Hollingshead not present; council voted to place on consent calendar for second reading). - Service Contract Funding: Directed Town Manager to execute contracts for requested amounts, passed 7-0. - DDA 2023 Budget (Resolution 2022-104): Passed 7-0. - DDA Mill Levy (Ordinance 2022-024, First Reading): Passed 7-0. - Downtown Enhancement Grant Program: Council supported the program as presented, passed 7-0. - Miller's Landing BID 2023 Budget and Operating Plan (Resolution 2022-105): Passed 7-0. - URA Minutes and Budget: Approved 7-0 during recess. - Festival Park Commons GID Minutes, Budget, and Mill Levy: Approved 7-0 during recess. - Ratification of Festival Park Commons GID Budget and Mill Levy (Resolution 2022-106): Passed 7-0. - Police Department Construction Contract (Resolution 2022-107): Passed 7-0. - Community Grant Awards: Passed 7-0. - Truck Routes Ordinance (Second Reading): Ordinance 2022-019 passed 6-1 (Councilmember Johnson opposed). - Landscape and Irrigation Criteria Manual (First Reading): Ordinance 2022-025 passed 7-0.