Colorado Springs, Colorado — Public Meeting Index

The Colorado Springs Planning Commission convened on May 14, 2025, with 7 members present and 2 absent. Key actions included a 6-1 vote recommending approval of a zone change and land use plan for the Tava Mountain Battery Energy Storage Facility, a unanimous vote to recommend updates to the Public Art Ordinance, and a postponement of a self-storage conditional use item. Public comment was heard only on the Tava Mountain project. The meeting also included communications about a joint training delay and new City Council liaisons. Consent Calendar - Approved unanimously (7-0-2) consent calendar with items 5A and 5B pulled. Items approved: 5C (Retail Marijuana Cultivation at 817 Wooten Road), 5D (Retail Marijuana Cultivation at 2211 East Boulder Street), 5E (Use Variance for Revolution Church Child Care Center at 2380 Montebello Drive West), 5F (Nonuse Variance for deck replacement at 6110 Pemberton Way). Public Comments & Testimony - Tava Mountain Battery Energy Storage Facility (Items 5A/5B): - Patrick Meade (property owner): Spoke in support, noting three years of professional work with the applicant and minimal operational impact. - Joseph Branski (local resident): Spoke in opposition, citing research on battery storage fires and explosions in Germany, Poland, New York, California, and Montana, and expressing safety concerns for nearby residences, parks, and community facilities. - No online public comments were submitted. - Public Art Ordinance (Item 8B): No public comments were offered. Discussion Items - Tava Mountain Battery Energy Storage Facility (Items 5A/5B): The applicant (esVolta) proposed a 100-megawatt, four-hour battery system on 4.49 acres at 1133 South Royer Street. Staff presented that the zone change from GI to PDZ (non-residential, 180,000 max sq ft, 80 ft height) is needed because battery storage is a major public facility only permitted in PF zone. Community benefits include $4.6 million in taxes over 20 years, reinforcement of local energy reliability, and use of existing transmission infrastructure. Safety features include lithium-iron-phosphate chemistry, NFPA 855 compliance, 24/7 monitoring, emergency response plan, and annual responder training. Commissioner questions addressed contract status with Colorado Springs Utilities (no contract yet, but RFP expected end of 2025), setbacks (10 feet from property lines, 6-foot chain-link fence with barbed wire), explosion mitigation (venting, monitoring, deflagration panels), battery disposal (returned to Chinese manufacturer Sungrow), and incident history (applicant noted improved technology compared to legacy systems). Commissioner Cecil expressed concerns about proximity to rail, health risks from potential fires (citing the Moss Landing incident), and whether the site's use could be more safely located elsewhere, such as the former Martin Drake site. She voted no. - Public Art Ordinance (Item 8B): Staff presented amendments to the UDC to remove references to the dissolved Public Art Commission and the Public Art Master Plan. New criteria for developer-proposed artwork (used as an offset for development standards) include material review, safe installation, and public visibility. The ordinance does not apply to city-owned art or revocable permits for temporary art on public property. Commissioners discussed the definition of public art vs. artwork, the need for a 10-year durability explanation, and the importance of public process. No opposition was voiced. The motion to recommend approval passed 7-0-2. - Lot 1 Satellite Square (Item 8A): A conditional use for a self-storage facility was postponed to June 11, 2025, by unanimous vote. Key Outcomes - Item 5A (Zone Change): Motion to recommend approval passed 6-1-2 (Commissioner Cecil opposed). Motion by Commissioner Hensler, seconded by Commissioner Casey. - Item 5B (Land Use Plan): Motion to recommend approval passed 6-1-2 (same vote). Motion by Commissioner Hensler, seconded by Commissioner Casey. - Item 8A: Postponed to June 11, 2025, by 7-0-2 vote. - Item 8B (Public Art Ordinance): Motion to recommend approval to City Council passed 7-0-2. Motion by Commissioner Casey, seconded by Commissioner Sipilovic. - Other: Minutes for April 9, 2025, were deferred to the June meeting. Communications indicated a joint training with City Council on May 20, 2025, is delayed; new liaisons from City Council are Dave Donaldson and Tom Bailey.

The Colorado Springs City Council met on Tuesday, May 13, 2025, at 9:02 AM in Council Chambers. The meeting included recognitions, a resolution affirming the city as a non-sanctuary city, approvals of private activity bonds for affordable housing, a public hearing for the Prospect Village tiny home community, and citizen discussion regarding housing authority evictions. The meeting adjourned at 2:41 PM. Consent Calendar - The Consent Calendar was approved unanimously (9-0) after items 4B.F through 4B.J were pulled for separate consideration. Items approved included: - 4B.A: Regular meeting minutes of April 22, 2025 - 4B.B: Resolution No. 58-25 approving an amended 2025 operating plan and budget for the First and Main Business Improvement District No. 2 - 4B.C: Resolution No. 59-25 approving issuance of limited tax general obligation bonds not to exceed $1,484,000 by the same district - 4B.D: Resolution No. 60-25 authorizing acquisition of real property and easements using PPRTA funds for the Marksheffel Road project - 4B.E: Referral of the Miller Downs at Wyoming Lane Annexation petition to city administration for review Recognitions - 5A: Joint Proclamation recognizing May 2025 as Mental Health Awareness Month was read by Mayor Yemi Mobolade and Councilmember David Leinweber. David Galvan, Mental Health Advocate, spoke about the 988 suicide prevention hotline. Councilmember Nancy Henjum noted the city’s Community Response Team. (9-0 vote, Resolution adopted) - 5B: Resolution No. 61-25 recognizing May 18–24, 2025 as National Public Works Week. Councilmember Brandy Williams read the resolution; Public Works Director Rich Mulledy acknowledged department teams, highlighting 94,000 potholes repaired, 91,000 cubic yards of debris removed, and over 1,300 ADA-compliant ramps installed in 2024. (9-0 vote) - 5C: Resolution No. 62-25 recognizing May 9, 2025 as Military Spouse Appreciation Day. Councilmember Kimberly Gold introduced Sarah Fry (Hiring Our Heroes) and representatives from the Mountain Post Spouses Club. The resolution was read by Councilmember Gold. (9-0 vote) Items Called Off Consent Calendar Councilmember Dave Donelson requested items 4B.F through 4B.J be pulled, sparking a debate on the procedural shift to first readings without full presentations. The items advanced for first reading only to set public hearing dates for May 27, 2025. - 4B.F: Ordinance vacating 0.034 acres of Fillmore Place right-of-way (2938 Main Street) – passed 8-1 (Donelson no) - 4B.G: Rezoning 0.41 acres at 1222 N. Academy Boulevard from R-5/MX-M to MX-M – passed 8-1 - 4B.H: Rezoning 0.35 acres at 1202 N. Academy Boulevard from R-5/MX-M to MX-M – passed 8-1 - 4B.I: Rezoning 0.39 acres at 2024 E. Boulder Street and 408 Iowa Avenue from R-4/MX-M to R-Flex Medium – passed 8-1 - 4B.J: Establishing the Parkside Historic District HP-O overlay on 4.15 acres – passed 8-1 New Business - 10A: Resolution No. 63-25 affirming Colorado Springs as a law-abiding, non-sanctuary city. Councilmember Roland Rainey presented, citing a recent raid and supporting law enforcement. Six citizens spoke in opposition. After debate, the resolution passed 7-2 (Gold and Henjum voting no). - 10B: Ratification of Councilmember Liaisons to appointed boards, commissions, and committees – passed 9-0. - 10C: Appointments to Pikes Peak Area Council of Governments and Pikes Peak Rural Transportation Authority boards – passed 9-0. - 10D: Ordinance (first reading) for a supplemental appropriation of $194,000 to the Lodgers & Auto Rental Tax (LART) Fund for four additional projects recommended by the LART Citizen Advisory Committee – passed 8-1 (Donelson no). - 10E: Resolution No. 64-25 declaring intent to carry forward $38,865,865 in 2025 Private Activity Bond (PAB) volume cap – passed 9-0. Chief Housing Officer Aimee Cox explained the city is a conduit issuer with no financial liability. - 10F: Resolution No. 65-25 declaring intent to issue multifamily housing revenue bonds for Bradley Ridge Apartments (336 units, $76.8 million in PABs) – passed 9-0. The project includes on-site childcare and 20 veteran units. - 10G: Ordinance (first reading) authorizing issuance of up to $60 million in multifamily housing revenue bonds for Royal Pine Apartments (232 units, including a $20 million taxable tail). After public opposition, the ordinance passed 8-1 (Donelson no). Councilmember Donelson questioned city liability for taxable bonds; John Bales, representing the applicant, confirmed the city has no liability. Public Hearing – Prospect Village Tiny House Community - 11A through 11H: All eight applications for the tiny house community at 3103 N. Prospect Street were approved unanimously (9-0) on second reading. The project includes a rezoning to R-Flex High, a conditional use for a tiny house community (18 homes), a development plan, and five development standards adjustments (e.g., reduced lot area, setbacks, parking at 0.5 spaces per unit). Staff planner William Gray presented; applicant John Olson and Shelli Jensen (We Fortify) described the supportive housing for at-risk youth aged 18–25. Two citizens spoke in support. Citizen Discussion - Multiple speakers (Linda Wurst, Betty Field, and others) addressed the attempted eviction of Betty Field from Centennial Plaza Apartments. Chief Housing Officer Aimee Cox stated that the eviction had been cured after proper paperwork was submitted. Councilmembers clarified that City Council has no direct authority over the Colorado Springs Housing Authority; the mayor appoints commissioners, subject to council confirmation. Discussion highlighted concerns about retaliation against tenant organizers. Key Outcomes - Consent Calendar: Items 4B.A–4B.E approved 9-0. - Proclamations: Mental Health Awareness Month, National Public Works Week, and Military Spouse Appreciation Day all adopted 9-0. - Pulled Consent Items (4B.F-4B.J): First readings passed 8-1; public hearings set for May 27, 2025. - Non-Sanctuary City Resolution (10A): Adopted 7-2 (Gold, Henjum opposed). - LART Supplemental (10D): Approved 8-1 (Donelson opposed) on first reading. - PAB Carryforward (10E): Adopted 9-0. - Bradley Ridge Inducement (10F): Adopted 9-0. - Royal Pine Bonds (10G): Approved 8-1 (Donelson opposed) on first reading; second reading scheduled for May 27, 2025. - Prospect Village (11A-11H): All eight items approved 9-0 with conditions. - Citizen Discussion: Action noted; council directed follow-up on housing authority concerns.

The Colorado Springs City Council held a work session on Monday, May 12, 2025, from 9:01 AM to 12:49 PM. The meeting included an executive session, presentations from the Pikes Peak Outdoor Recreation Alliance, the Pikes Peak Commission on Aging, year-end LART updates from the Colorado Springs Sports Corp and the Chamber and EDC, and the introduction of a park land acquisition resolution. No public comments were received. Executive Session - Open Session: Ben Bolinger, City Attorney's Office, requested authorization to defend city employees in the lawsuit Laura Voepel v. Reuban Crews, et al. (Case No. 25-cv-00506-KAS). Council provided unanimous consensus to authorize representation. - Closed Session: Council voted 9–0 to enter a closed executive session to discuss (i) strategy for a real estate acquisition for a public works project and (ii) instructions for negotiators regarding an economic development and incentive agreement, citing Colorado Open Meetings Act exemptions. Presentations for General Information Pikes Peak Outdoor Recreation Alliance (PPORA) - Becky Leinweber (Executive Director) presented the Outdoor Pikes Peak Initiative (OPPI), which has been in development since 2021. The draft vision plan was released for public comment through June 1, 2025. - Connor Hall (Lead, Office of Colorado’s Outdoor Recreation Industry) noted that Great Outdoors Colorado (GOCO) has set aside $50 million over five years for regional partnership implementation, with $40 million for implementation grants (minimum $250,000, expected $2–$5 million per project). PPORA is among the first partnerships to complete a vision plan, positioning it to access these funds. - Jeff Moser (Board Chair) and Toby Gannett (Past Chair) highlighted PPORA’s structure and the need for local financial investment to complement state funds. Cripple Creek has already contributed. - Councilmember Henjum expressed full support, calling the outdoors “the most profound asset.” Councilmember Leinweber asked about Colorado Springs Utilities’ involvement; Chris Olney (CSU) explained collaborative work on infrastructure and watershed solutions. - Councilmember Williams asked about specific costs for Pikes Peak work; Leinweber stated those are not yet determined. She confirmed that the $50 million is only available for regional partnerships. - Councilmember Rainey asked about the Governor’s Office priorities; Hall stated they are respecting community plans and seeking balance. Pikes Peak Commission on Aging (PPCOA) - Erin Maruzzella (Commissioner) presented on aging policy, the Colorado Commission on Aging, and the local PPCOA. She noted that Colorado Springs’ age-friendly designation (through AARP) lapsed in June 2024 when Innovations in Aging closed, though volunteers are working to rebuild the group. - Councilmember Leinweber asked about Alzheimer’s and dementia; Maruzzella stated they have more experts to address cognitive behaviors and continue research. - Councilmember Donelson emphasized the need to focus on the elderly, specifically transportation, isolation, and socioeconomic challenges. He asked about appointments; Maruzzella said City Council appoints one member to PPCOA, and there are six appointed members with room for at-large members. - Councilmember Bailey asked about university partnerships; Maruzzella cited UCCS and Pikes Peak State College as age-friendly partners. - Councilmember Henjum confirmed the city’s past age-friendly designation and noted the volunteer effort to re-establish it. - Maruzzella requested council partnership and highlighted the upcoming multi-sector plan on aging, open for comment through May, with a meeting at El Pomar on Thursday. Colorado Springs Sports Corp – 2024 LART Year-End Update - Jamie Fabos (Chief of Staff) presented changes to the LART (Lodgers and Auto Rental Tax) grant process, including new committee makeup (four lodging, one rental car, two at-large citizens; contract agencies are ex-officio). A LART Administrator position (one-year pilot) will be housed at Sports Corp, funded at $80,000/year. Councilmember Donelson expressed concern about the position being at a contracted agency rather than city hall. Fabos noted that a previous council opposed growing government, and Sports Corp is fronting the salary before the contract starts July 1. - Megan Leatham (President & CEO, Sports Corp) stated the percentage distribution among four pillars (arts, sports, business/general tourism, outdoor) will be based on the number of applications received each year, with final approval through the budget process. Councilmember Donelson argued this approach is reactive, not strategic. Council President Crow-Iverson and Councilmember Henjum defended the changes, emphasizing increased accountability through KPIs and that 60% of the 80 prior LART contracts were not fulfilling obligations. - Davis Tutt (Director of Sports Tourism) reported 2024 KPIs: 43 events (up 49% from 2023), 31,000 athletes, over 100,000 spectators (up 32%), and hotel room nights up 320% from 2023. He highlighted key 2025 events including the US Senior Open, USA Weightlifting Nationals, and DoD Warrior Games. Councilmember Leinweber asked what the city lacks to be more competitive; Leatham replied a massive indoor/outdoor sports complex. Colorado Springs Chamber and EDC – 2024 LART Year-End Update - Dani Barger (Senior Vice President) presented results from a perception study (conducted every three years) showing Colorado Springs is known for outdoors but not career opportunities. She highlighted earned media (12 national placements), digital marketing, and the “Takeoff in Colorado Springs” campaign during Space Symposium, which generated 24 qualified economic development leads. Councilmember Donelson asked how KPIs are established; Barger said they are in the contract and reviewed annually with the Chief Financial Officer. Councilmember Rainey asked for a definition of a “lead”; Barger will provide that to the full council. Items for Introduction Cumbre Vista Park Extension (Items 8A & 8B) - Lonna Thelen (Parks Design and Development Manager) presented a resolution and budget ordinance to acquire approximately 5.75 acres from El Paso County School District 20 for $791,740 plus $3,000 in closing costs, using Park Land Dedication Ordinance (PLDO) funds. The site is adjacent to existing Cumbre Vista Park (5.16 acres), creating a combined 10.91-acre park. The purchase will address a neighborhood park deficit of about 1–1.5 acres in the area due to multifamily development replacing planned commercial uses. The Parks Advisory Board approved unanimously. Councilmember Henjum asked if PLDO funds can be used for park development; Thelen explained their primary purpose is land acquisition, with limited alternative compliance options for construction. Councilmember Risley asked how the price was established; Thelen stated D20 proposed a price, and an appraisal supported it. The items will go to regular council meetings on May 27 and June 10 for final votes, with closing expected late June/early July. Key Outcomes - Approval of Minutes: The April 21, 2025 work session minutes were approved by consensus. - Authorization to Defend City Employees: Council unanimously authorized representation in Laura Voepel v. Reuban Crews, et al. - Closed Executive Session: Council voted 9–0 to hold a closed session for real estate acquisition negotiation and economic development agreement discussion. - Presentations Received: All four presentations (PPORA, PPCOA, Sports Corp, Chamber/EDC) were received as informational; no formal votes were taken. - Introduction of Cumbre Vista Park Items: Resolution and ordinance were introduced for the May 27 regular meeting; final adoption scheduled for June 10. - Council Reports: Councilmember Donelson raised concerns about noise from the Ford Amphitheater affecting nearby residents. Councilmember Henjum reported on community trail cleanup efforts and the upcoming Juneteenth celebration at Citadel Mall. Councilmember Leinweber noted a very successful Small Business Week with sold-out events. - Adjournment: The meeting adjourned at 12:49 PM.

The Downtown Review Board (DRB) held its monthly meeting on May 6, 2025, at 9:00 AM at the Regional Development Center (2880 International Circle). The board received staff communications on the recent City Council decision upholding the DRB's approval of the One Vela project, progress on the Downtown Master Plan update, and board member term expirations. The board approved the minutes of the March 3 meeting and unanimously approved a minor improvement plan and warrant for the Early Connections Learning Center at 415 Sahwatch Street. Communications - Ryan Tefertiller, Urban Planning Manager, reported that on April 7, 2025, City Council upheld the DRB's decision to approve the One Vela project (27-story apartment mixed-use building at Costilla and Sahwatch) by a vote of 6-1, with Councilman Donelson opposed and Councilmembers Risley and Henjum absent. - Upcoming public events for the Downtown Master Plan update on May 8, 2025: a Coffee and Chat (7:30 AM – 9:30 AM) at the Pioneers Museum and a Walk and Talk (5:00 PM – 7:00 PM) leaving from UCCS Downtown Space to provide input to the consultant team. - Formal consultant presentations to the DRB are expected later in fall 2025, with adoption anticipated around February 2026. The form-based code revisions will be brought concurrently with the master plan updates for coordinated hearings. - Board members Kronstadt and Luciano have terms expiring in August 2025; they were asked to decide on reappointment to begin recruitment if needed. The process for filling Kronstadt's seat representing Mill Street and Shooks Run neighborhoods was explained: the city will contact neighborhood associations for nominations, and interviews with City Council representatives may occur if there are multiple nominees. Approval of Minutes - The minutes from the March 3, 2025, DRB meeting were approved by a vote of 8-0-1 (Board Member Coats absent). Public Comments & Testimony - Austin Wilson Bradley, Director of Economic Development for the Downtown Partnership, spoke in support of the Early Connections Learning Center project. He noted that the Downtown Development Authority (DDA) provided a $50,000 grant for the project, which enhances the value of a downtown property and provides needed childcare near offices. Discussion Items - Early Connections Learning Center (FBZN-25-0001): An FBZ Minor Improvement Plan and warrant to allow conversion of an existing two-story building into an early childhood education center at 415 Sahwatch Street (southeast corner of West Costilla and Sahwatch). The proposal includes a 5-foot black powder-coated aluminum fence around children's play areas, with additional landscaping between the fence and the sidewalk within city right-of-way to buffer the fence. The site is 0.65 acres, zoned FBZ-CEN (Form-Based Zone Central). Staff found the project compliant with PlanCOS and the warrant criteria in Section 5.4.3 of the Form-Based Code. Standard public notice was given (65 postcards) and no comments were received. City Agency Review required installation of a sidewalk along Sahwatch Street; a variance to reduce sidewalk width is likely to be approved to preserve old-growth trees. - Board members asked questions about the fence location (clarified that the fence surrounds play areas on the north and south sides of the building, not the parking lot), whether the project replaced a previously proposed new construction behind the Antlers Hotel (applicant confirmed they decided against new construction and chose renovation at 415 Sahwatch instead), gate security (perimeter fences have panic bars and locking hardware; internal fences have pass-through gates), and programming (two infant rooms, three toddler rooms, five preschool rooms, with playgrounds for each age group and a professional development center for adults in the basement). Key Outcomes - The board unanimously approved the application (motion by Board Member Mikulas, seconded by Board Member Friesema) with a vote of 8-0-1 (Board Member Coats absent). The approval includes a requirement to resubmit the plan depicting a sidewalk along Sahwatch Street that meets Development Review requirements and adjust the final landscape plan as needed. - Appeal instructions were read: an affected party may appeal the board's action to City Council within ten calendar days (by May 16, 2025) by filing a notice of appeal with the county clerk and paying a $176 fee.

The Historic Preservation Board met on Monday, May 5, 2025 at 4:30 PM in Room 701 (moved due to special elections). All seven members were present: Chair Lowenberg, Board Members Musick, Baumgartner, Fitzsimmons, Potter, Beerbaum, and Hines. The meeting covered approval of minutes, a consent calendar with two development projects, and a presentation on the draft Historic Resource Survey Plan. Consent Calendar - 1609 N Tejon Street (HIST-25-0002): A Report of Acceptability for a new 260 sq ft front porch and a 1,400 sq ft addition to the rear of the house. No items were pulled; board member Potter asked about garage door height (standard height) but did not request removal from consent. - 2020 N Tejon Street (HIST-25-0003): A Report of Acceptability for a new 748 sq ft detached garage in the rear yard. - Both items were approved unanimously (7-0). Approval of Minutes - February 3, 2025 minutes (HPB 2302): Approved with amendments (clarifying the conference theme as "intangible heritage" and wording on board's educational function). Motion carried 5-0-2 (Board Members Baumgartner and Potter abstained because they did not attend the February meeting). - March 3, 2025 minutes (HPB 2304): Approved unanimously (7-0). Communications & Updates - Parkside Historic District: William Gray (Senior Planner) reported that the district is scheduled for a public hearing at City Council on May 27, 2025, after receiving unanimous approval from Planning Commission. It will be on the consent agenda but likely pulled for a shorter presentation. - Historic Preservation Month: A resolution recognizing May 2025 as Historic Preservation Month will also be presented at the May 27 City Council meeting. Chair Lowenberg or another board member was asked to present it. Suggestions for inclusions: recognition of the Dozier State and Moorhouse National Register properties, the pending Parkside district, and the nearing completion of the Historic Resource Survey Plan. - Navajo Hogan: Owner was contacted about historic tax credits but is not planning renovations at this time. - Future Meetings: June and July meetings will be held in Conference Room 701 due to special elections. - CLG Coordinator: Lindsay Flewelling from History Colorado will attend the June 2 meeting (rescheduled from May due to illness). - Grant Deadline: State SHF grant funds for future survey work are due October 1, 2025; the board was encouraged to begin planning. Discussion Items: Historic Resource Survey Plan - The draft plan was completed at the end of March 2025 and distributed to board members via OneDrive (a hard copy was provided to Board Member Baumgartner). - The plan was also sent to the Historic Preservation Alliance, Historic Neighborhood Partnership, and the state of Colorado for review. A public comment webpage will go live during the week of May 5. - The grant deadline for the current survey project is the end of June; an extension has been requested. - Board members were asked to submit their comments by May 23, 2025 so that feedback can be consolidated before the June meeting. - Mr. Gray highlighted key elements of the plan: field reconnaissance organized by resource type, geography, and theme; a recommended volunteer program based on Historic Denver’s model; prioritization of future intensive surveys; and a continued focus on minority communities. - The board was reminded of its goal to implement at least one recommended action item in the near term, possibly using the October grant cycle. Key Outcomes - Consent Calendar approved (7-0) for both 1609 N Tejon St and 2020 N Tejon St. Appeals must be filed by May 15, 2025 with a $176 fee. - Minutes approved as amended for February and March. - Board members and the public were encouraged to attend the May 27 City Council meeting to support the Parkside Historic District and the Historic Preservation Month resolution. - Comments on the Historic Resource Survey Plan are due to staff by May 23, 2025; the plan will be discussed further at the June 2, 2025 meeting. - Next meeting: June 2, 2025, in Conference Room 701, with a design review applications and attendance by the CLG coordinator.

The Colorado Springs City Council met on Tuesday, April 22, 2025, at 9:00 AM in Council Chambers. The meeting was called to order by President Lynette Crow-Iverson with all nine council members present. The meeting included recognitions, a consent calendar, a first reading for a rezoning ordinance, and one hour of citizen discussion. The meeting adjourned at 10:34 AM. Consent Calendar - Approval of Minutes: The Council approved the minutes from the Special City Council Meeting on April 7, 2025, the Regular Meeting on April 8, 2025, and the Special Meeting on April 15, 2025, as part of the consent calendar. (Motion by Councilmember Gold, second by Councilmember Risley, passed 9-0.) - Item 4B.D. Removed: Councilmember Dave Donelson requested the removal of item 4B.D. (rezoning at 3103 North Prospect Street) from the consent calendar for separate discussion, which was agreed upon by consensus. Recognitions 5.A. Small Business Week (May 5–9, 2025) - Councilmember Kimberly Gold read Resolution No. 57-25, recognizing May 5–9, 2025, as Small Business Week in the Pikes Peak Region. The resolution noted that Colorado Springs has approximately 74,287 small businesses, representing 98.7% of all businesses in the metropolitan area. - Speakers: - Lauren Shakes, Associate Director of the Pikes Peak Small Business Development Center (SBDC), expressed appreciation for small businesses and community partners. - Joe Reagan, Director of the Colorado Veteran Business Outreach Center, highlighted the role of military spouses in small businesses. - Craig Harley, Vice President of Membership at the Colorado Springs Chamber of Commerce and Economic Development Center, described how the Chamber supports small businesses. - Councilmembers Crow-Iverson and Gold expressed appreciation for small businesses. The motion to adopt the resolution passed 9-0. 5.B. National Volunteer Week (April 20–26, 2025) - Councilmember David Leinweber read Resolution No. 56-25, designating April 20–26, 2025, as National Volunteer Week. - Key Statistics (presented by Britt Haley, Director of Parks, Recreation and Cultural Services): - Over 7,000 volunteers contributed approximately 170,000 hours of service in 2024 across airport, public safety, stormwater, and parks systems. - Colorado Springs Airport: 51 volunteers, 2,856 hours. - Public Safety CAPS program: 180+ volunteers, 41,040 hours (valued at $1.5 million). - Stormwater Enterprise: 904 volunteers, 2,400 hours, removed 28.9 tons of litter. - Parks, Recreation and Cultural Services: 3,884 volunteers, 123,067 hours. - City Council-appointed boards: 100+ volunteers, thousands of hours. - Total value at $36.36/hour: over $6.1 million. - Speakers: - Britt Haley highlighted volunteer contributions across departments. - Councilmember Leinweber noted mental health benefits of volunteering. - Citizens Ethan Jacobs and Catherine Czukas expressed appreciation. - Jim Lovewell, Assistant Director of Colorado Springs Airport, thanked airport ambassadors. - Councilmembers Williams and Gold conveyed appreciation for volunteers. - Motion to adopt passed 9-0. 5.C. City Council Appointments to Boards, Commissions, and Committees - Appointments were made to the Fire Board of Appeals, the Lodgers and Automobile Rental Tax (LART) Citizen Advisory Committee, and the Pikes Peak Regional Building Department Board of Review. Councilmember Risley and Councilmember Henjum expressed appreciation for the volunteers. Motion passed 8-0-1 (Councilmember Leinweber absent). Discussion Items 4B.D. First Reading – Rezoning at 3103 North Prospect Street (Prospect Village) - Purpose: First reading only to set a public hearing for May 13, 2025, for an ordinance to rezone 0.78 acres (34,048 square feet) from R-5 (Multi-Family High) to R-Flex High to facilitate a proposed tiny home community. - Presentation: William Gray, Senior Planner, presented the request. The Planning Commission had already approved the rezoning unanimously. The project includes 18 tiny houses, a community building, parking, and landscaping. The developer is requesting adjustments to setback (from 20 to 10 feet), separation (from 10 to 6 feet), parking (from 1 to 0.5 spaces per unit), and minimum lot area (from 1,000 to 690 square feet). - Councilmember Positions: - Councilmember Donelson requested that quasi-judicial rezones not be placed on the consent calendar in the future to ensure public awareness. He provided a summary of the project and noted the development standard adjustments. - Councilmember Risley clarified that the item had already undergone a robust public process, including Planning Commission review. - Councilmember Henjum stated the item had been noticed appropriately and that more information would be provided at the public hearing. - Motion by Councilmember Henjum, second by Councilmember Risley, to approve the ordinance on first reading and set the public hearing for May 13, 2025, at 9:00 AM. Passed 9-0. Public Comments & Testimony - Rachel Knapp spoke about the need to revise the noisy pet ordinance (6.7.115), citing inconsistent enforcement and a 10-minute barking standard. Councilmember Henjum indicated she is working on a related ordinance with the Humane Society and would involve Ms. Knapp. - Lawrence Clark spoke against human trafficking, criticized the distribution of Lodgers and Automobile Rental Tax (LART), and alleged that the Broadmoor hotel comped $8.1 million, calling for that money to go to the city. - Kat Gale spoke against the one-hour limit on citizen discussion, against noise from the Ford Amphitheater (citing PTSD triggers), and against Dora Gonzalez as chair of the Pikes Peak Library District (PPLD) board. She urged enforcement of noise laws. - Veronica Baker opposed new public comment restrictions (one-hour limit, no call-in option, moving citizen discussion to the end), arguing they discourage engagement and limit accessibility for caregivers and people with disabilities. - Karla Powers invited citizens to the opening of the interim Rockrimmon Branch library and spoke about the need for remote comment options due to caregiving responsibilities. - Joe Pelka opposed the public comment restrictions, asking the council to reconsider and citing the "SNF test" (appearance of impropriety). - Catherine Czukas requested a fixed time for citizen discussion, suggesting 1:00 PM, and noted that the one-hour cap and lack of fixed time harm caregivers. - Ethan Jacobs spoke about the need for harmony and against train noise in downtown, requesting a quiet zone. - Dallas Whitewolf spoke about the need for assistance for people experiencing homelessness and mental health issues, describing outreach with Hope COS. - Christie Morgan spoke about the loss of her goat, Jameson, and criticized animal law enforcement for lack of oversight, body cameras, and accountability. She requested a proper investigation. - At the end of the meeting, Councilmember Donelson stated his disagreement with the council's recent changes to citizen discussion rules, including moving it to the end, the one-hour limit (though it has always been in rules), removing remote comment, and removing the ability to cede time. He recommended revisiting those changes. Key Outcomes - Consent Calendar: Approved minutes from April 7, 8, and 15, 2025. (9-0) - Resolution 57-25: Adopted recognizing Small Business Week May 5–9, 2025. (9-0) - Resolution 56-25: Adopted recognizing National Volunteer Week April 20–26, 2025. (9-0) - Appointments to Boards, Commissions, and Committees: Approved 8-0-1 (Leinweber absent). - Rezoning Ordinance (4B.D.): Approved on first reading; public hearing set for May 13, 2025, at 9:00 AM. (9-0) - No other business: No Mayor's Business, Utilities Business, Unfinished Business, New Business, Public Hearing, Added Items, or Executive Session.

The City Council held a work session on Monday, April 21, 2025, starting at 9:02 AM and adjourning at 11:42 PM. The meeting included presentations from Visit COS and the Cultural Office of the Pikes Peak Region (COPPeR) on their 2024 year-end Lodgers and Auto Rental Tax (LART) performance, as well as discussion on a supplemental LART appropriation, private activity bond (PAB) resolutions for affordable housing projects (Bradley Ridge and Royal Pine), and an amended operating plan for the First and Main Business Improvement District No. 2. Council also authorized out-of-state travel for a councilmember. Minutes Approval - The minutes of the March 24, 2025, Work Session were approved by consensus. Staff Reports - Agenda Planner Review: Councilmember Donelson questioned a scheduled presentation by Healthspan Business Partners at the May 12 work session, noting it appeared to be a private business. Deputy City Council Administrator Michael Montgomery said he would re-forward the information. Presentations for General Information - Visit COS 2024 Year-End LART Update: Doug Price, President and CEO, along with staff, presented fourth-quarter and full-year 2024 Key Performance Indicators. Total LART collections in 2024 were $9,624,000, up 1.38% from 2023. Visitors spent nearly $3 billion in the region, saving each local family $945 annually in taxes. Occupancy rate was 63.2%, down 1.8% from 2023. Room nights booked via Visit COS were down by about 35,000 compared to 2023 due to non-repeating groups. Marketing Director Melissa Williams presented a resident sentiment survey (conducted August 2024, 400 likely voters) showing 60% believe positive impacts of tourism outweigh negative, but 40% said tourism diminishes quality of life. Councilmember Henjum asked about collaboration on a potential November 2025 ballot initiative; Ms. Williams said they will work with the solutions team. Councilmember Leinweber asked how the four contracted tourism entities coordinate; Chief of Staff Jamie Fabos stated the goal of the new LART structure is to tie them together for a more comprehensive strategy. Councilmember Donelson requested a refresher on how LART was historically distributed (when Visit COS received 66% of collections). - COPPeR 2024 Year-End LART Update: Angela Seals, President and CEO, presented the cultural office's 2024 performance. The region has over 550 arts and cultural groups; 82% are within Colorado Springs. 48% of tourists engage in cultural activities (20% above national average). PeakRadar.com saw increased tourist usage, with 71% of users in 2024 being tourists and over 17,000 clicks on

This special meeting, convened at 1:00 PM (agenda) in Council Chambers, was listed as a test session for new councilmembers. The provided transcript contains no roll call, no discussion of agenda items, and no formal council business. Instead, the transcript consists entirely of repeated city promotional announcements and public service messages (e.g., sign repair statistics, emergency alert instructions, and municipal branding). The meeting did not appear to proceed to substantive agenda items, and no votes, decisions, public comments, or recognitions are recorded in the available material. Consent Calendar - No items were discussed or acted upon. Public Comments & Testimony - No public comments were made during the meeting as captured in the transcript. Discussion Items - No proposals, reports, or deliberation by council members are present in the transcript. Key Outcomes - No decisions, votes, directives, or referrals were made. The meeting appears to have been a test or informational session without substantive action.

The Colorado Springs Planning Commission met on Wednesday, April 9, 2025, at 9:00 AM in the Regional Development Center Hearing Room. The meeting covered routine consent items, a public hearing on the Flats at Sand Creek appeal, and a recommendation for the Parkside Historic District overlay. Key decisions included denial of the appeal (6-2) and unanimous recommendation for the historic district. Changes to Agenda - Commissioner Gigiano moved to postpone Item 8.C (Public Art Ordinance) to a date uncertain; the motion passed unanimously. Communications - Chair Slattery noted upcoming term openings and directed interested parties to the city website. - Kevin Walker, Planning Director, reported: City Council adopted the ADU ordinance; the Karman Line Annexation will be on a June 17, 2025 ballot; the OneVeLa high-rise development plan was denied by City Council after an appeal. Approval of Minutes - The minutes from March 12, 2025 were approved 5-1-3 (Vice Chair Foos, Commissioners Cecil and Casey abstained; Commissioner Sipilovic absent). Consent Calendar The following items were approved unanimously (8-0-1 absent): - 5.A. Rockrimmon Christian Preschool Conditional Use (large childcare facility at 260 E Woodmen Road). - 5.B. Black Rock Coffee Conditional Use (drive-through coffee kiosk at 5570 Barnes Road). - 5.C. Ordinance No. 25-52: Rezoning 0.35 acres at 1202 N Academy Boulevard from R-5 and MX-M to MX-M. - 5.D. Ordinance No. 25-51: Rezoning 0.41 acres at 1222 N Academy Boulevard from R-5 and MX-M to MX-M. - 5.E. Ordinance No. 25-53: Rezoning 0.39 acres at 2024 E Boulder Street and 408 Iowa Avenue from R-4 and MX-M to R-Flex Medium. Discussion Items 8.A. Flats at Sand Creek Appeal An appeal of the administrative approval for a 144-unit multifamily development on 6.94 acres at the northeast corner of N Carefree Circle and Peterson Road. The appellant (represented by Michelle Bork) argued the plan is incompatible, lacks adequate parking, and will increase traffic and safety risks. The applicant (Andrea Barlow, NES; Ben Taylor, Lincoln Avenue Communities) countered that the project meets all zoning and technical criteria, provides affordable workforce housing, and addresses neighborhood concerns through design modifications. - Public Comment: Over 20 residents spoke in support of the appeal, citing traffic congestion, pedestrian safety, parking overflow, property value impacts, and concerns about the developer’s track record. School District 49 and Pikes Peak Housing Network spoke in opposition, supporting the housing need. - Commission Discussion: Commissioners highlighted the tension between community concerns and the development code. Some expressed sympathy but found the application met all legal criteria. Commissioners Robbins and Gigiano dissented, citing outdated traffic studies and insufficient parking. - Motion: To deny the appeal and affirm the administrative approval, based on City Code Section 7.5.415.A(2). Passed 6-2-1 (absent). Ayes: Vice Chair Foos, Hensler, Cecil, Rickett, Slattery, Casey. Noes: Robbins, Gigiano. 8.B. Parkside Historic District An ordinance to establish a Historic Preservation Overlay (HP-O) on 4.29 acres west of N Cascade Avenue between W Dale Street and W St. Vrain Street. The applicant (Cheryl Brown, Historic Uptown Neighborhood Association) and historian Tim Scanlon presented the historical and architectural significance of 17 properties. The overlay would require exterior building permits to be reviewed by the Historic Preservation Board, with a maximum 90-day delay; demolition permits could also be delayed 90 days. The recommendation included adopting the Secretary of the Interior Standards for Rehabilitation with the Old North End Interpretive Guide. - Public Comment: Diane Bridges of Historic Neighborhoods Partnership spoke in support, noting tax credit benefits and the city’s first HPO in nearly two decades. - Commission Discussion: Questions addressed permit delays, demolition protections, and design standards. Commissioners were supportive, recognizing the community effort. - Motion: To recommend approval to City Council with conditions (incorporating the Interpretive Guide and a reference to the National Park Service’s Historic Preservation Tax Incentives page). Passed unanimously (8-0-1 absent). 8.C. Public Art Ordinance (Postponed) Item called off to a date uncertain. Key Outcomes - Flats at Sand Creek Appeal: Denied (6-2). The administrative approval of the development plan is affirmed. The appellant may appeal to City Council within 10 days (by April 21, 2025) with a $176 fee. - Parkside Historic District: Recommended for approval to City Council (unanimous). The Council will hold a public hearing on May 27, 2025. - Consent Calendar: All items approved. - Next Steps: City Council will consider the historic district ordinance; the Flats at Sand Creek development may be appealed further. Traffic safety improvements at the intersection (protected left-turn arrow) were noted as a separate city initiative.