Public Meetings - Grand Junction, Colorado

The Grand Junction City Council convened on May 20, 2026 at 5:30 PM for a regular meeting. Key topics included a presentation from the Business Incubator Center, a proclamation for National EMS Week, public comments on homelessness and camping ordinances, and approval of several land use and code amendments. The meeting also addressed procurement items and a contract for water tank recoating. Consent Calendar - Approved minutes from May 4 and May 6, 2026 meetings (workshop, regular, and executive sessions). - Set public hearings for June 3, 2026 for two legislative items (camping ordinance and riverfront trail rules) and July 15, 2026 for the Monument Vistas annexation (41.09 acres). - Approved procurement of rolling stock equipment (front-end loaders, skid loader, forklift) via C3 grant. - Approved resolutions on regional affordable housing collaboration (Proposition 123), assignment of private activity bond volume cap for two affordable housing projects (Haven at the Salt Flats and 29 Mile Apartments), Safe Streets grant application, councilmember assignments to boards/commissions, and an agreement with the Grand Junction Regional Air Service Alliance. - Items 2.a.i (camping ordinance), 2.a.ii (riverfront trail rules), and 3.a (rolling stock) were moved to the Regular Agenda by Councilmember Beilfuss. The remaining consent items passed unanimously. Public Comments & Testimony - Tammy Powers: Shared her cycling background and applied for the Urban Trails Committee, urging the city to focus on bike parking solutions. - Crystal Frost: Reported recent deaths of homeless individuals and called for immediate action on homelessness. - Kristen Seidel (Vice Chair of the Homeless Coalition, Program and Outreach Coordinator for Mutual Aid Partners): Opposed changing the camping ordinance; recommended providing dumpsters and porta-potties along the river trail, and hiring homeless individuals for cleanup. Cited $460,000 spent on camp cleanups over three years. - Shayla: Described her family's experience of homelessness in 2010 while camping along the river, urging council not to further criminalize homelessness. - Madeline Mejia: Stated the unhoused population increased 108% since 2019. Opposed ordinance changes, saying they only treat symptoms. - Andy Hamilton: Argued further criminalization would increase taxpayer costs ($30,000–$50,000 per chronically homeless person) and urged rejection of changes on moral and fiscal grounds. - Andrea Hamilton: Opposed changing the language, calling for services rather than shrinking spaces for unhoused individuals. - Stephania Vasconez (Executive Director of Mutual Aid Partners): Highlighted a river camp cleanup removing 6,700 pounds of trash in one week. Noted that less than 53% of Mesa County households can afford current rent. Opposed the ordinance change. - Thomas Copp: Called for a balanced approach—updating the ordinance to be enforceable while providing temporary structured alternatives with sanitation and oversight. - Public Hearing on Drive-Through Facilities (5.a.iii): Mark Austin (civil engineer, Austin Civil Group) and Kelsey Heath (speaking for a business group) supported the amendment, stating the current code hinders development. Shayla expressed concern about pedestrian safety and suggested keeping the "adjacent" language. Discussion Items - Introduction of Ordinance Amending Camping on Public Property (2.a.i): Interim City Attorney Jeremiah Boies explained the ordinance originally included a shelter-availability exception to comply with Martin v. City of Boise, but the 2024 U.S. Supreme Court ruling in City of Grant's Pass v. Johnson overruled that precedent. The proposed amendment removes the shelter-availability requirement. Councilmember Beilfuss moved to set the public hearing for June 17 instead of June 3, citing requests from providers for more preparation time. The motion failed 4-2 (Councilmembers Kennedy, Van Dyke, Ballard, and Council President Lutz voting no; Stout unable to vote due to technical issues). Councilmember Stout then moved to adopt on first reading and set the public hearing for June 3, which passed 5-2 (Nguyen and Beilfuss voting no). - Riverfront Trail Rules Renewal (2.a.ii): The rules had expired in mid-2025; the interim city attorney presented the renewal to enable enforcement. Councilmember Kennedy moved to adopt on first reading and set a public hearing for June 3. Motion carried 6-1 (Beilfuss voting no). - Rolling Stock Procurement (3.a): CFO Jay Valentine presented a request to purchase two front-end loaders ($598,670), one skid steer loader ($71,110), and one forklift ($63,304) totaling $733,084 for the Material Recovery Facility (MRF), funded 62% by a C3 grant and 38% city match. Councilmember Beilfuss asked about American-made equipment; staff confirmed. Motion passed unanimously. - Supplemental Appropriation (5.a.i): CFO Valentine presented Ordinance No. 5318 to carry forward capital project funds and appropriate new grant revenues for affordable housing, infrastructure, and more. No public comment. Passed unanimously by roll call. - Zoning Code Amendments Package (5.a.ii): Principal Planner Tim Lehrbach presented seven technical amendments (plat recording, ADUs, multi-unit design standards, landscape substitutions, natural hazards, park signs, outdoor lighting). Planning Commission recommended approval 7-0. No public comment. Passed unanimously. - Drive-Through Facilities Amendment (5.a.iii): Planning Manager Thomas Lloyd presented the amendment to remove subjective pedestrian safety language and the requirement that drive-through lanes not be located between the building front and the adjacent public right-of-way. The amendment also changes "adjacent" to "abutting" to clarify the 100-foot radius ambiguity. Planning Commission recommended approval 4-3. Public testimony included support from developers and concern from a citizen. Councilmembers discussed pedestrian safety and flexibility. Passed unanimously. - Las Colonias Lease Amendment (5.b.i): Engineering Director Trent Prall and Interim City Attorney Boies explained the need to adjust Lease Parcel 2's boundary to accommodate the Monument Business Park parking lot. No public comment. Passed unanimously. - Comprehensive Plan Amendment (5.b.ii): Planning Manager Lloyd presented a request from Brookfield Mixed Use 65, LLC to change 19.83 acres from Industrial to Residential Low at 860 21 Road, noting the property is adjacent to existing residential and has sewer access. Applicant representatives Chris Hernandez and Tracy Stetson (River City Consultants) presented, emphasizing preservation of 14.36 acres for industrial use. No public comment. Passed unanimously. - Rezoning (5.b.iii): Corresponding rezone from Industrial Light (I-1) to Residential Low 5 (RL-5) on the same 19.83 acres. Planning Commission recommended 7-0. No public comment. Passed unanimously. - Right-of-Way Vacation (5.b.iv): Associate Planner Sam Wuebbles presented a request to vacate the eastern 15 feet of 24 ¼ Road in exchange for the city obtaining right-of-way along G Road. Conditions include a land exchange. Planning Commission recommended 7-0. No public comment. Passed unanimously. - Water Treatment Plant Tank Recoating Contract (6.a): Interim Utilities Director Ashley Firl presented the need to recoat the south tank (critical sanitary defects found in 2024). Project timeline requires completion between Labor Day and end of year. Lowest bidder: Mandros Painting, Inc. of Rock Springs, Wyoming for $821,300. Councilmember Kennedy praised staff diligence and suggested future consideration of a local preference policy. Passed unanimously. Key Outcomes - Camping Ordinance: First reading passed; public hearing set for June 3, 2026 (5-2 vote). - Riverfront Trail Rules: First reading passed; public hearing set for June 3, 2026 (6-1 vote). - Rolling Stock Equipment: Approved for $733,084 (unanimous). - Supplemental Appropriation: Ordinance 5318 adopted (unanimous). - Zoning Code Amendments: Ordinance 5319 adopted (unanimous). - Drive-Through Facility Amendments: Ordinance 5320 adopted (unanimous). - Las Colonias Lease Amendment: Ordinance 5321 adopted (unanimous). - Comprehensive Plan Amendment: Ordinance 5322 adopted (unanimous). - Rezoning: Ordinance 5323 adopted (unanimous). - Right-of-Way Vacation: Ordinance 5324 adopted (unanimous). - Water Tank Recoating Contract: Awarded to Mandros Painting, Inc. for $821,300 (unanimous).

The Grand Junction City Council met in a workshop on Monday, May 18, 2026, at 5:30 PM in the Fire Department Training Room, 625 Ute Avenue. The meeting was live-streamed via GoTo Webinar. The workshop covered a Housing Needs Assessment update, an update on the Air Race X event, and annual boards and commissions liaison assignments. The meeting adjourned at 7:32 PM. Housing Needs Assessment Update Root Policy Research presented the draft Housing Needs Assessment. Key findings include: steady population growth driven by migration; housing production is beginning to keep pace with growth but the community is still recovering from underproduction; rental vacancy rates remain extremely low at approximately 3.4%; home prices and rents outpace wage growth; significant affordability gaps exist with the greatest rental need below 30% AMI and greatest ownership need below 100% AMI (homes under $280,000); an estimated 7,000 additional housing units are needed in Grand Junction by 2036; market-rate development alone will not address deeply affordable needs. Community and stakeholder feedback showed strong support for diverse housing types and affordability strategies, with renters wanting to transition to homeownership and owners needing repair assistance and ADUs. Council discussed streamlining development processes, pet restrictions as a barrier, hotel/motel conversions, manufactured housing preservation, investor cash purchases, and the need to balance deregulation with deeply affordable housing strategies. Staff noted the Housing Action Plan phase will further evaluate policy options. Air Race X Event Update City Manager Mike Bennett reported that after further discussions, the original request for direct city support from Air Race X is no longer being pursued. Air Race X is now exploring a revised model in partnership with the Grand Junction Sports Commission. Council expressed continued interest in the economic development potential and appreciation for the Sports Commission taking the lead. Continued collaboration with aviation and community partners was supported. Boards & Commissions Liaison Assignments Council reviewed annual liaison assignments. Most assignments were reaffirmed. Air Service Alliance and Colorado Water Congress were removed from the list. Key discussion areas: - Business Incubator Center / Riverview Technology Corporation: Both Councilmembers Ballard and Beilfuss expressed interest. The discussion focused on experience, continuity, and workload balancing. Council encouraged further discussion between the two prior to formal action; no resolution was reached. - Urban Trails Committee: This generated the most extensive discussion. Concerns about politicization of the committee, tone, advocacy, and council oversight were raised. Councilmembers discussed potential dual liaison arrangements. After debate, it was agreed that Councilmembers Nguyen and Kennedy would serve jointly as liaisons to the committee for the upcoming year, with the aim of reducing tension and improving collaboration. The need for clearer resolution and expectations was noted. Other assignments, including for the Housing Authority, DDA, Grand Junction Economic Partnership, and others, were confirmed. Council Communication Council expressed support for scheduling a norms-of-conduct training through CIRSA or CML to improve council communication and collaboration. Brief discussion of upcoming CML legislative updates and procedures for handling policy disagreements with CML positions occurred. Next Workshop Topics City Manager Bennett listed upcoming topics for June workshops: Housing Affordability Task Force consultant request, community survey questions, 7th and 9th Street multimodal corridor concepts, Real Estate Review Committee discussion, Grand Valley River Corridor Initiative, single stair multifamily discussion, service provider presentations related to homelessness and housing support systems, Woodman Park and Museum discussions, local procurement discussions, and norms of conduct training scheduling. June workshops are expected to be full. Key Outcomes - No formal votes were taken, as this was a workshop session. - Urban Trails Committee: Councilmembers Nguyen and Kennedy will serve as co-liaisons for the upcoming year. - Business Incubator/Riverview Technology Corporation: Further discussion between Councilmembers Ballard and Beilfuss is needed; resolution expected at the next regular meeting. - Other liaison assignments were generally reaffirmed, with changes to be finalized at a future meeting. - Council directed staff to arrange a norms-of-conduct training. - The Housing Action Plan process will continue with one-on-one council interviews.

The Grand Junction City Council held its regular meeting on May 6, 2026, at 5:30 PM in the City Hall Auditorium. The meeting included the election of a new Council President/Ex-Officio Mayor and Council President Pro Tem/Ex-Officio Mayor Pro Tem, presentations, proclamations, public comments, a consent agenda, and action on two major items: a resolution to ban fireworks sales and reconsideration of a resolution involving city-owned open space for the Camelback Gardens development. Election of Mayor/Mayor Pro Tem - Councilmember Laurel Lutz was unanimously elected Council President/Ex-Officio Mayor (7-0). - After two nominations, Councilmember Jason Nguyen's nomination for Council President Pro Tem/Ex-Officio Mayor Pro Tem failed (3-4), and Councilmember Ben Van Dyke's nomination succeeded (4-3). City Clerk Selestina Sandoval administered oaths of office. Presentations - Grand Junction Housing Authority CEO Scott Aker and Board Chair Krista Ubersox presented the annual report, highlighting 51 years of service, nearly 800 affordable apartments, over 1,200 vouchers, and a waitlist of approximately 2,500. In 2025, the authority contributed 69% of the unit count to Proposition 123 and completed 10 independent audits with successful outcomes. Proclamations - Councilmember Cody Kennedy proclaimed May 4–8, 2026 as Teacher Appreciation Week; D51 Foundation Executive Director Angela Christensen accepted. - Councilmember Ben Van Dyke proclaimed May 11–16, 2026 as National Police Week; Police Chief Matt Smith accepted, noting 27,355 line-of-duty deaths since 1786 and 36 deaths in 2026 as of April. Public Comments & Testimony - Theresa Cambron: Raised concerns about carbon monoxide exposure and drug activity in her apartment, criticizing the Housing Authority for charging for asbestos removal. - Ryan Serod (Mesa County Noxious Weed and Pest Department): Requested stronger city cooperation on Japanese beetle eradication, noting 90% of captures are within city jurisdiction; 5,700 adults caught in 2023, 1,500 in 2024. - Joan Bradley: Described mallard ducklings dying at the 26th Road bridge over Grand Valley Canal. - Brian Luoma (Green Latinos): Invited council to a Take on Toxics tour and announced release of the Mesa County Environmental Justice Report. - Dennis Simpson: Criticized the city's community satisfaction survey as not statistically valid and questioned consultant costs. - Ed Kowalski: Expressed concerns about violence against children. - Kristen Seidel (Mutual Aid Partners, Grand Valley Coalition for the Homeless): Thanked council for attending PLE meetings and highlighted a cleanup that removed 6,700 pounds of trash from river camps after dumpsters were placed. - Stephania Vasconez (Mutual Aid Partners): Shared a personal story of homelessness and the importance of lived-experience voices. - Kia Young (CMU social work intern): Relayed feedback from unhoused neighbors about shelter closure impacts and resource gaps, quoting a person who wakes up at 4:30 AM for temp work and misses shower access. - Crystal Frost: Thanked Sunshine Community for housing assistance and proposed "accountability through opportunity" – fund beds for the willing, and arrest those who refuse services. Consent Calendar - Approved the consent agenda (items 1–4 and resolutions except 5.a) unanimously by voice vote. Items included: - Approval of minutes from April 13 workshop, April 15 regular meeting, and April 15 executive session. - Setting public hearings for May 20, 2026 on: supplemental appropriation, Zoning and Development Code amendments (final plat recordation, ADUs, design standards, landscape substitutions, natural hazards, signs, outdoor lighting), drive-through facilities, comprehensive plan amendment for 19.83 acres at 860 21 Road, rezoning to RL-5, right-of-way vacation, lease amendment for Monument Business Park, and annexation of 1.59 acres (hearing June 17). - Continuing the impact fee refund ordinance hearing to June 3, 2026. - Procurement contracts: resurfacing 12 Canyon View tennis courts, final phase LED lighting conversion, Riverside Parkway street maintenance. Discussion Items - Resolution to Ban Sale or Trade of Fireworks (Item 5.a): Moved from consent. City Manager Mike Bennett and Fire Chief Peter Skeris presented drought data: 114 red flag warning days in 2026 vs. 15 total in 2025, snowpack at 23% of normal in Colorado headwaters, and NOAA predicting drought persistence through July. Inspections for permitted sales require 252 hours. Council debated tabling until June 3 vs. immediate adoption. Councilmember Kennedy motion to table failed (3-4). Councilmember Stout motion to adopt passed (4-3). Public comment included Britton Cottrell (TNT Fireworks) warning that a ban would drive illegal online sales, and George Gatseos encouraging enforcement. The resolution was adopted. - Reconsideration of City-Owned Land Inclusion for Camelback Gardens (Item 6.a): Principal Planner Daniella Acosta Stine presented. The resolution would allow 15 acres of city-owned open space to be included in the Planned Development boundary to lower density from 8.75 du/ac to 3.6 du/ac, avoiding a 34-unit reduction. Council heard public comment from opponents (Rich Beauheim, George Gatseos, Chris Macanan, Theresa Edwards) arguing the open space dedication predated the current developer and the process bypassed proper rezoning. Developer Mike Stubbs argued the land was dedicated for the overall ridges cluster development. After discussion, Councilmember Kennedy motion to repeal Resolution 13-26 passed 5-2 (Nguyen and Beilfuss against), citing lack of public process and potential legal challenges. Key Outcomes - Fireworks Ban: Adopted Resolution No. 39-26, banning the sale, exchange, barter, or trade of fireworks effective immediately until restrictions are lifted. Vote: 4-3 (Stout, Nguyen, Beilfuss, Lutz yes; Kennedy, Ballard, Van Dyke no). - Camelback Gardens Resolution: Repealed Resolution 13-26, removing city-owned open space from the development boundary. Vote: 5-2 (Kennedy, Van Dyke, Stout, Lutz, Ballard yes; Nguyen, Beilfuss no). - Councilmember Stout requested a future workshop or memo regarding city coordination on Japanese beetle eradication. - Meeting adjourned at 8:53 PM.

The Grand Junction City Council held a workshop on May 4, 2026, at 5:30 PM in the Fire Department Training Room. The workshop covered three main discussion topics: amendments to the camping on public property ordinance, the 2026 Community Satisfaction Survey, and a request from the Urban Trails Committee (UTC) for representation on the Housing Affordability Code Task Force (HACTF). Councilmembers in attendance included Mayor Cody Kennedy, Robert Ballard (virtual), Scott Beilfuss, Laurel Lutz, Jason Nguyen, and Ben Van Dyke. Councilmember Anna Stout was absent. Discussion Item 1: Camping on Public Property Interim City Attorney Jeremiah Boies and Police Chief Matt Smith presented an overview. The current ordinance (No. 4833, 2019) prohibits camping on public property but contains an exception preventing enforcement when no overnight shelter is available, based on the Martin v. Boise ruling. The 2024 City of Grants Pass v. Johnson Supreme Court decision overturned that legal precedent. City staff recommended removing the shelter-availability exception to restore enforcement tools used prior. Chief Smith presented data showing the city spent $460,000 from 2022 to 2025 to remove 119 tons of debris from river encampments, noting a history of outreach and voluntary compliance. Councilmember Lutz opposed the change without first providing alternatives for the unhoused, such as sanitation services or housing solutions, stating she could not support the amendment without those answers. Councilmember Nguyen supported the enforcement change but requested a future workshop dedicated to interim housing solutions. Councilmembers Ballard, Beilfuss, and Van Dyke supported the amendment, emphasizing public safety, fire mitigation, and restoring police tools. Mayor Kennedy supported the change, clarifying it restores the previous legal framework rather than directing immediate sweeps. Consensus was reached to move forward with an ordinance amendment removing the shelter availability restriction. Discussion Item 2: 2026 Community Satisfaction Survey Communications and Engagement Manager Kelsey Coleman presented the plan for the biennial survey. The survey is a randomized, statistically valid mailing to over 5,400 residents across eight neighborhoods, with results weighted by age and ethnicity. The results inform the city's budget and strategic plan. Councilmember Lutz suggested adding a question about the Orchard Mesa Pool. Councilmember Ballard raised concerns about online survey bias. Staff confirmed the main survey is distinct from an open online survey to ensure validity. Council supported accelerating the timeline if possible to inform upcoming policy discussions. Discussion Item 3: Urban Trails Committee (UTC) and HACTF Representation Mayor Kennedy detailed a letter he wrote regarding the UTC's request for representation on the HACTF. He alleged the UTC had operated outside its authorized scope (Resolution 48-14), engaged in political advocacy against council policy, and submitted a letter containing misleading statistics, specifically using a 20% non-car commuting figure to argue against bike parking changes when actual bicycle commuting is approximately 2%. Kennedy cited recorded UTC meetings where members allegedly planned to "wait this council out," made derogatory comments about HACTF members, and expressed intent to reinstate a former staff position eliminated by council. Councilmember Nguyen, as the UTC liaison, felt the request for representation was reasonable, arguing the UTC has valuable technical expertise for specific code discussions and that much of the concern stemmed from individual comments made in public sessions. Councilmembers Ballard, Beilfuss, and Van Dyke aligned with the Mayor's concerns, expressing frustration over the adversarial relationship and conduct. Councilmember Lutz proposed a prospective "letter of expectation" clarifying the UTC's advisory role rather than immediately pursuing a resolution rewrite, and suggested standardizing orientations across all city boards and commissions. Interim City Attorney Boies outlined options, including a new resolution or a letter of expectation. Council Communications & Other Business Councilmember Van Dyke proposed changing how the Real Estate Committee functions, suggesting that major real estate decisions be handled by the full council in executive session rather than a two-person committee. Staff and council were receptive to this discussion. Mayor Kennedy invited top Civic Bee finishers to attend a future meeting. Council directed staff to pull a coatings procurement item to allow time to verify contractor performance claims and local economic impacts. A request from the Colorado Water Congress for a federal funding support letter was noted but no action taken due to timing. Staff reviewed logistics for the upcoming mayoral and mayor pro tem transition. Key Outcomes - Camping Ordinance: Council directed staff to draft an ordinance amendment removing the shelter-availability enforcement exception. - Community Survey: Council approved proceeding with the 2026 survey and requested exploring an accelerated timeline and including an Orchard Mesa Pool question. - UTC & HACTF: Council declined the UTC's request for a seat on the HACTF. Consensus was reached to draft a formal "letter of expectation" to clarify the UTC's advisory scope and role, rather than immediately dissolving or rewriting the committee. - Procurement: The coatings procurement item was postponed from the consent agenda to allow for further staff review and verification. - Real Estate Committee: A future discussion on restructuring the committee to involve the full council was proposed.

The Grand Junction City Council held its regular meeting on April 15, 2026, convening at 5:40 PM following an executive session. Seven councilmembers were present, with Councilmember Ballard attending virtually. The agenda included proclamations, appointments, a consent agenda, a contested procurement for water tank recoating, and the approval of a major contract for the Material Recovery Facility (MRF). Public comments addressed a potential pool property transfer, proposed changes to parental leave policies, and concerns over local versus out-of-state contracting. Note on Discrepancy: The published agenda and meeting minutes contain a typographical error listing the Arbor Day Proclamation as April 25, 2025. During the meeting, the proclamation and related events were discussed in the context of the 2026 Arbor Day celebration. Proclamations and Appointments - Arbor Day Proclamation: Councilmember Stout read a proclamation declaring April 25, 2026 as Arbor Day. Forestry Board Vice Chair Kamie Long accepted, noting Grand Junction’s 43 consecutive years as a Tree City USA and the city’s canopy of over 57,000 public trees. - Parks and Recreation Advisory Board Appointments: Councilmember Stout moved to reappoint Bill Findlay, Nancy Strippel, and Byron Wiehe for full terms expiring June 30, 2029, and to appoint Cayman Haltiner for a partial term expiring June 30, 2027. The motion passed 7-0. Public Comments - Theresa Cambron: Shared a personal anecdote on tourism and economics, advocating for lower gas prices to attract visitors. - Maryann Taigman (Save the Pool Committee): Urged the Council to provide a transparent public update on the status of negotiations between the City and School District 51 regarding the possible transfer of the pool property. Expressed disappointment in receiving only one response to the committee’s emailed questions and called for an open public meeting. - Raigan Long (Spouse of GJPD Officer): Strongly opposed the potential reduction of parental leave for non-birthing parents of city employees, arguing that 12 weeks is essential for family stability, postpartum recovery, and bonding, particularly for first-responder families. - Charles Lerr: Raised concerns about excessive traffic noise on Patterson Road, linking modified exhaust systems to reckless driving, and provided suggestions for addressing the issue. - Dennis Simpson: Criticized the City’s contract approval process regarding the MRF Phase 1 contract, arguing that authorizing the City Manager to sign a contract without the final document being available for Council or public review lacked transparency and accountability. - Ed Kowalski: Echoed the noise complaint and called for collaboration between law enforcement and city leaders to address traffic speed issues. City Manager Report and Liaison Reports - City Manager Mike Bennett: Reported March sales tax revenue up 7.47% (year-to-date 4.8%) and lodging tax up 13.35%. Highlighted upcoming community engagements: Arbor Fest (Apr 25), a "Meet You There" event with Councilmember Lutz (May 1), and a Town Hall (May 11). Also recognized retiring Utilities Director Randi Kim for her 8+ years of service, noting her leadership in financial management, asset management, and conservation. - Councilmember Lutz: Announced that Grand Junction was featured on two prestigious New York Times travel lists ("52 Places to Go" and "36 Hours"). Updated on the Grand Junction Housing Authority’s "Current" project, anticipated to complete in January 2027. - Councilmember Stout: Reported on Colorado Municipal League (CML) advocacy, noting the state legislative budget shortfall is expected to negatively impact municipalities and that key CML bills died in committee. - Council President Kennedy: Announced that Egnest AI selected Grand Junction for its headquarters, Soft Gel Technologies ("Project Moose") is proceeding with expansion tied to 403 new jobs, and a local startup (Sensory Store) was approved for a GJEP Jump Start grant. Consent Calendar - The consent agenda (Items 1-5) was approved by a unanimous 7-0 vote, excluding Item 4c. - Item 4c Removed: Item 4c (Water Treatment Plant South Tank Interior Recoating contract) was removed from the consent agenda for separate discussion at the request of the Council President. Discussion and Action Items Item 4c: Water Treatment Plant South Tank Interior Recoating - Staff Presentation: CFO Jay Valentine explained that the low bidder, Mandros (Wyoming), was initially deemed non-responsive for failing to include a staffing plan for the Keep Jobs in Colorado Act, but this was ruled a minor irregularity which they cured. No formal local preference policy exists in the city's purchasing code. - Public Testimony on 4c: - Whitman Robinson (Attorney for WBS Codings): Argued that the City’s best interest rule (Section 2.49 of bid documents) allows the Council to prioritize the local company (WBS Codings), whose bid was approximately $55,000 higher. He challenged the validity of Mandros’ compliance with the 80% Colorado residency requirement. - Aaron DeRose (WBS Codings): Emphasized WBS’s 38-year history in Grand Junction, the economic multiplier effect of local hiring and spending, and the structural disadvantage Colorado companies face against Wyoming firms due to state income tax differences. - Council Deliberation: - Councilmember Stout: Stated she felt bound by the existing purchasing policy, which lacks a local preference provision, and initially supported the staff recommendation. - Councilmember Van Dyke: Expressed being moved by the public testimony and indicated support for developing a local preference program (PLP) for the future. - Councilmember Ballard: Sought clarity on the City’s ability to enforce the Keep Jobs in Colorado Act. - Council President Kennedy: Expressed discomfort with the lack of oversight on compliance and sought legal advice. - Outcome: Councilmember Stout moved to table the item to allow the City Attorney to research the Council’s legal options regarding the award. The motion passed 7-0. Item 6a: Award of Construction Contract for Material Recovery Facility (MRF) Modifications Phase 1 - Staff Presentation: General Services Director Jerod Timothy presented the project. Phase 1 includes critical building modifications (demolition, concrete pits, MEP/FP upgrades) to prepare for equipment arriving August 3rd. Only one responsive bid was received (KR Construction Group, Colorado Springs). The contract amount is $4,281,380. - Council Deliberation: Councilmembers discussed the compressed schedule as the reason for the single bid. Councilmember Ballard inquired about the contract not being included in the packet, and staff explained the practice is to not make contracts public until an award is made. - Outcome: Councilmember Stout moved to authorize the City Manager to enter the contract. The motion was seconded by Mayor Pro Tem Lutz and passed unanimously (7-0). Key Outcomes - Consent Agenda: Approved 7-0 (Items 1-5, minus 4c). - Item 4c (Water Tank Recoating): Tabled 7-0 to allow the City Attorney to provide legal counsel on Council’s options regarding the award. - Item 6a (MRF Phase 1): Approved 7-0. City Manager authorized to execute the contract with KR Construction Group, Inc. for $4,281,380. - Public Engagement: Multiple upcoming events announced (Arbor Fest, Meet You There, Town Hall).

The Grand Junction City Council convened for a workshop on Monday, April 13, 2026, at the Fire Department Training Room to discuss four main topics: the reconsideration of Resolution 13-26 regarding density calculations for Camelback Gardens, a proposal to host the Air Race X international event, a resolution for a Transportation Management Organization/Association (TMO/A) required for the I-70/29 Road interchange project, and upcoming board assignments and mayoral term adjustments. Discussion Items Camelback Gardens Resolution 13-26 - City Manager Mike Bennett acknowledged the resolution should have come to the workshop for discussion prior to council action, citing its unique nature and the lack of a full public process. - Councilmember Scott Beilfuss raised concerns about the resolution lacking a specific geographic limitation in its text, potentially creating a precedent for similar requests citywide. Staff clarified the resolution is narrowly tied to the specific Camelback Gardens Planned Development and its unique history. - Councilmember Robert Ballard expressed fairness concerns, stating the city is effectively 'picking a winner' by allowing city-owned open space (dedicated by a previous developer) to be used exclusively for this project without a public process or opening it to all adjacent developments. - Councilmember Jason Nguyen countered that the land is immediately adjacent to the development, and using it for density supports the Strategic Plan's housing supply goals. He noted that land cost constitutes a significant percentage of final home prices. - Councilmember Anna Stout supported reconsidering the resolution to allow a more transparent process, emphasizing the importance of accepting public comment, which was not formally solicited before the original resolution was passed. - Mayor Cody Kennedy voiced strong support for holding a public hearing to ensure community input on this unusual policy decision, stating the resolution effectively permits a density change not reflected in the original public process. - Councilmember Laurel Lutz noted the developer had dedicated land under previous codes which have since changed, creating a unique outlying situation. City Attorney Jeremiah Boies confirmed the council has full legislative discretion but no legal obligation to apply this situation elsewhere. - Key Outcome: The council reached consensus to schedule the resolution for formal reconsideration at a future regular meeting, with explicit public comment opportunity added to the agenda. Air Race X Event Proposal - Ben H. of the Sports Commission and organizer Ted Morris presented a proposal for Grand Junction to host a relaunched global air racing event in April 2027. The event is positioned to include a tech conference and business development component, attracting corporate executives. - The financial request requires an immediate $20,000 deposit to secure the event, with a total city investment of up to $1.2 million. The city would retain 100% of revenues up to $1.5 million before entering a revenue-sharing agreement with Air Race X. - Projections suggested 25,000 to 70,000 spectators and a $12 million economic impact, though organizers admitted hard U.S. data was limited given the relaunch status. - Council Concerns: Councilmembers Ballard, Kennedy, Lutz, Nguyen, and Stout raised several red flags: high upfront public investment, significant financial risk if the event is canceled by weather (high winds in April or aircraft performance issues in summer heat), unspecified additional public safety and operational costs, a compressed decision-making timeline, and a lack of audited financial projections or consulting from Visit Grand Junction. - Councilmember Lutz highlighted the statement 'this is a fast-moving conversation' as a major concern, requesting detailed pro forma financials before any commitment. - Councilmember Ballard emphasized the city could lose the full $1.2 million investment if the weather grounds the event, and noted the city will incur substantial costs beyond the initial investment for police, fire, and cleanup. - Key Outcome: The council directed city staff to conduct a thorough 30-day vetting process, including consultations with all relevant city departments, to evaluate operational feasibility, financial risks, and develop a firm economic analysis before any funding decision is made. The $20,000 deposit was not authorized. TMO/A Resolution for I-70/29 Road Interchange - Staff presented a required Transportation Demand Management (TDM) strategy needed for CDOT and federal approval of the proposed interchange. The targeted reduction is 230 ramp trips per hour (3%) through alternative transportation. - Strategies include creating a rideshare/carpool app, implementing a school pool program, providing park-and-ride facilities, and building bike/pedestrian infrastructure. - A key clarification was made that support for the TMO/A letter does not obligate the city to construct the interchange. The commitment to the TDM strategies is only enacted if the interchange proceeds to construction. - The entity will be housed within the existing Regional Transportation Planning Office (RTPO) to avoid creating a new government agency. - Councilmember Stout expressed strong interest in implementing the proposed programs, such as the carpool app and school pool initiative, citywide regardless of the interchange timeline. - Key Outcome: The council agreed to place the resolution authorizing the Mayor to sign the letter of support on the consent agenda for the next regular meeting. Mayor and Mayor Pro Tem Term Adjustments - City Attorney Jeremiah Boies outlined charter constraints regarding the mayor's explicitly defined one-year term, complicated by the change from April to November elections creating a 6–7 month scheduling gap. - Council discussed three main paths: an 18-month holdover via the charter's 'until successor' clause, a standard year followed by a short term, or a short term followed by a standard year. - Councilmember Ballard suggested doing the short term immediately to adjust the schedule right away. - Councilmember Stout and Mayor Kennedy supported doing the standard one-year term first to allow more time to publicly communicate the upcoming adjustment. - Key Outcome: The council reached consensus to elect the mayor in May 2026 for a standard 12-month term, followed by a temporary 7-month term to transition to the new November election cycle. City Manager Bennett requested clear public transparency regarding the adjustment. Formal action and board assignments are scheduled for the first council meeting in May. Other Business - The Parks & Recreation Advisory Board interview committee recommended reappointing three incumbents and one new candidate (a pediatric nurse) for a partial term to gain childhood recreation perspective. - City Manager Bennett alerted council to a potential ban on fireworks sales due to extreme drought conditions matching historical data from previous bans in 2012 and 2018, signaling an urgent need for potential action. - Future workshop topics include the community survey, camping ordinance, redevelopment area incentives, multimodal concepts (7th & 9th Streets), Orchard Mesa Pool, and Whitman Park.

The Grand Junction City Council convened for a regular meeting on Wednesday, April 1, 2026, at 5:30 PM. The meeting included proclamations, appointments, public hearings on the Graywater Control Program and the Downtown Development Authority (DDA) budget, and a resolution concerning Councilmember Robert Ballard's military deployment. Councilmembers also delivered reports on their assigned boards and commissions. Proclamations & Appointments - April 2026 was proclaimed National Donate Life Month. Jessi Rochel of the Chris Klug Foundation accepted, noting one organ donor can save up to eight lives. - April 2026 was proclaimed Water Conservation Month. Utilities Director Randi Kim stated the snowpack is at 41% of the 35-year historical average and outdoor watering causes daily water use to jump from 4 million to over 10 million gallons. - Council unanimously approved appointments to the Urban Trails Committee, Downtown Development Authority/Business Improvement District, and Zoning Board of Appeals. Public Comments & Testimony The majority of public comments focused on Councilmember Ballard's deployment. - Support for Resolution (Copp, Mcgruff, Ficklin, Peterson, Kinnett, Fry, Schwenke, Webb, Reinwick): Speakers argued strongly for keeping Ballard on the council, characterizing military service as an honorable commitment that should not lead to a vacancy. They emphasized existing remote participation technology and urged the council to pass the resolution as a tangible act of support. - Concerns about Representation (Heckman, Sienna, Allen): Speakers argued that remote participation cannot fully replace in-person representation. They suggested an interim replacement would be a better path, with one speaker (Heckman) citing historical examples of leaders temporarily transferring power. Sienna urged the council to vote no on the resolution as written. - Other issues: A resident raised concerns about a zoning and annexation process in District E. Another commented on attending a rally and communication with councilmembers. Consent Calendar - The consent agenda, covering items like minutes, a pool operations agreement, a CRC furniture contract, and resolutions for a GOCO grant, wildfire code fees, and an opioid settlement, was approved unanimously. - Item 4.c (SIPA software grant) was removed for individual consideration and discussion. Discussion Items - SIPA Software Grant (Item 4.c): Council adopted Resolution No. 31-26, supporting a grant application for improved procurement, project management, and permitting software. Councilmember Beilfuss received assurances that the new system would maintain public transparency in the bidding process. - Graywater Control Program (Item 5.a.i): Council adopted Ordinance 5316, amending the city's program to match updated state regulations. The amendment adds a laundry-to-landscape category and revised flow calculations. Discussion included the potential water savings (up to 20,000 gallons annually for a family of four) and the slow adoption rate of such systems. The public hearing had no comments. - DDA Supplemental Appropriation (Item 5.a.ii): Council adopted Ordinance 5317, authorizing carryforwards and new spending for the DDA including $2.1 million and $1.625 million for the Terminal project and $400,000 for a parking lot acquisition. The public hearing had no comments. - Councilmember Ballard Deployment Resolution (Item 6.a): Councilmember Ballard recused himself. Staff presented Resolution 15-26. Councilmember Stout expressed frustration over the politicization of the issue but stated she would vote yes. Councilmember Lutz clarified that an interim appointment is not an option under the city charter. Councilmember Beilfuss stated the council supports Ballard 100%. Councilmember Nguyen discussed the remote work policy and supported the resolution despite the risk of operating with six members. Council President Kennedy apologized for his initial tone and affirmed his support. The resolution was adopted by a vote of 6-0. Key Outcomes - Resolution 15-26 Adopted (6-0): The resolution excusing Councilmember Ballard from absences and authorizing remote participation during his National Guard deployment was adopted. - City Attorney Search: Councilmembers Kennedy and Lutz were selected to serve on the committee to choose a recruitment firm. - Orchard Mesa Pool: City Manager Bennett met with School District 51; an initial response on future collaboration is expected by the end of the following week. - All other agenda items (Proclamations, Appointments, Consent Agenda items, Graywater Ordinance, DDA Ordinance) were passed unanimously.

The Grand Junction City Council held a workshop on March 30, 2026, at the Fire Department Training Room to discuss the Parks Impact Fee calculation, the military deployment of Councilmember Robert Ballard, and Councilmember communication and decorum. No formal votes were taken, but consensus was reached on the parks fee and direction was given to bring a resolution forward for Ballard's deployment. No formal public comment period was held. Parks Impact Fee Update and Discussion - Staff presented two new options for calculating park land acquisition costs based on a new MAI appraisal review: Option 3A (refined sales data at $113,000/acre) and Option 3B (appraised values at $90,000/acre). - Councilmember Anna Stout stated that choosing Option 3B is a "conscious policy decision" and a trade-off that prioritizes short-term housing affordability over long-term park funding, effectively "borrowing from the future." - Councilmember Scott Beilfuss expressed support for moving forward, noting the reduction is "nominal" but contributes to addressing housing affordability, describing it as a "death by a thousand cuts." - Councilmember Jason Nguyen stated the lower fee sends a message that the city is partnering with the community on housing affordability. - Councilmember Ben Van Dyke, Councilmember Laurel Lutz, Councilmember Robert Ballard, and Mayor Cody Kennedy expressed consensus. - Direction: Council reached a consensus to move forward with process direction on Option 3B ($90,000/acre) and proposed code text amendments regarding periodic fee study reviews, refunds of fee differences, and offsets for previously paid in-lieu fees. Councilmember Ballard's Deployment - Councilmember Ballard stated he can attend meetings remotely despite a nine-hour time difference, noting his IT is "hardened" and he can call in if needed. - Councilmember Stout argued a resolution is unnecessary, stating the remote meeting policy already covers participation, and urged a focus on constituent access rather than a bureaucratic process. She suggested a public statement of support instead. - Councilmember Van Dyke, Councilmember Beilfuss, and Mayor Kennedy argued the resolution is needed to provide absolute legal clarity and prevent challenges. Kennedy noted the "gray area" in the charter regarding the definition of a meeting. - Councilmember Nguyen expressed openness but raised concerns about pre-excusing five consecutive meetings, preferring to wait until closer to the threshold. - Councilmember Lutz sees the resolution as moot and urged a different approach. - Interim City Attorney Jeremiah Boies confirmed that passing the resolution would protect the city from legal ambiguity regarding the five-consecutive-meeting threshold for a vacancy. - Direction: Informal direction to bring a resolution excusing Councilmember Ballard's absences during military deployment forward for a vote at a regular meeting. Councilmember Communication and Decorum - Councilmember Stout initiated the discussion, citing a pattern of "inflammatory and misleading language" by Councilmember Beilfuss toward staff (e.g., calling them "dickheads"), community partners (calling the CMU president "jumpy"), and other councilmembers, as well as misstatements of fact regarding GJ Auto Sales and CMU. - Councilmember Beilfuss acknowledged he can "do better" and expressed a desire for better working relationships. He admitted he has been trying to advance issues "with a hammer instead of a glove." - Councilmember Lutz emphasized the importance of distinguishing policy disagreement from personal attacks and misinformation. - Councilmember Van Dyke stressed the responsibility of council members to be truthful, stating "we owe the public the facts." - Councilmember Nguyen urged caution to avoid a "chilling effect" on deliberation. - Councilmember Stout stated the conversation did not fully resolve the issue, as she did not hear an apology to CMU or the Martinez family. - Outcome: No immediate censure was passed. Council members expressed a shared expectation of improved conduct and professionalism moving forward. City Council Communication - Council members discussed the upcoming Mayor/Mayor Pro Tem rotation, board and commission assignments, and CML (Colorado Municipal League) conference registration. Next Workshop Topics (April 13, 2026) - Planned items include the 7th & 9th Street conceptual study, public land use in development calculations, a potential 29 Road workshop, the mayoral rotation, and a tour of the community recreation center. Other Business - Urban Trails Committee: Councilmembers Beilfuss and Lutz updated the Council on their selections to fill five vacancies from a pool of seven applicants. - Downtown Development Authority (DDA): Councilmembers Stout and Nguyen updated the Council on their selections for DDA vacancies. - Zoning Board of Appeals: Staff recommended shifting to role-based appointments tied to Planning Commission positions (chair, first alternate, second alternate) for continuity and efficiency. - Teacher Appreciation Week Proclamation: Council expressed general support for issuing the proclamation as a standard civic proclamation moving forward.

The Grand Junction City Council convened for a regular meeting on Wednesday, March 18, 2026, at 5:30 PM at City Hall Auditorium. Council President Cody Kennedy presided. The meeting covered proclamations, public comments, consent items, and several public hearings on zoning and development projects. The meeting adjourned at 7:19 PM. Proclamations - A proclamation for César Chávez Day (March 31) was withdrawn from the agenda. - Council President Kennedy read a proclamation for Brain Injury Awareness Month (March 2026). Mallory Rodriguez of Hilltop Brain Injury Services accepted, and client Anthony Paul shared a personal testimony. Public Comments & Testimony - Noreen Alexander requested the city end open burn season within city limits, citing urban burning of weeds. - Dennis Simpson criticized the city's Civic Clerk software vendor for changes that blocked Android users on Wi-Fi from viewing agendas, arguing it violated state law. - Theresa Cambron alleged ongoing drug dealing (fentanyl) at Walnut Park Apartments and criticized police response to a named suspect. - Larry Sipes reported hazardous road depressions at 28th & Patterson and on Riverside Parkway, requesting immediate safety repairs. - Stephanie Dedduang (during the WUI hearing) asked about the effective date of the new fire code and requested the city disseminate information to builders and designers. Consent Calendar - The council approved Consent Agenda items 1–6 except for items 2.a.ii, 2.b.i, and 3.a, which were pulled for individual consideration. The consent items passed 7–0. Discussion Items Item 2.a.ii – Bicycle Storage and Parking Ordinance Introduction This item was pulled from consent. Interim City Attorney Jeremiah Boies stated the agenda item improperly contained two competing ordinances (from HACTF and staff). Council declined to hear the substantive issue due to this procedural irregularity. - Outcome: Councilmember Ballard moved, seconded by Councilmember Nguyen, to postpone indefinitely. The motion carried 6–1, with Councilmember Stout dissenting. Item 2.b.i – Camelback Gardens Planned Development ODP Introduction Council members requested a review of a previously adopted resolution that dedicated city open space to the development's density calculation, prompting a pause to examine the precedent. - Outcome: Councilmember Van Dyke moved, seconded by Councilmember Ballard, to postpone indefinitely. The motion carried 6–1, with Councilmember Stout dissenting. Item 3.a – I-70 / 29 Road Interchange MOU Engineering Director Trent Prall explained that updated traffic projections for I-70 had decreased, removing the need for interstate widening. The MOU focuses on designing the 29 Road corridor in phases (a three-lane section initially, with a potential five-lane section if the interchange is built). Councilmember Beilfuss requested neighborhood engagement during the design, which staff confirmed is part of the NEPA process. - Outcome: Motion to adopt by Councilmember Stout, seconded by Councilmember Nguyen. Carried 7–0. Item 7.a.i – 2025 Colorado Wildland Urban Interface (WUI) Code Staff presented the state-mandated adoption of the Wildfire Resiliency Code. Councilmember Stout expressed concern over the loss of local control and noted the city had opposed the bill. Discussion covered the code's trigger (new construction and additions over 500 sq ft), the affected WUI zones within the city, and its interaction with existing landscaping codes. Fire Marshal Kollar clarified it was not a retrofit code. - Public Hearing: Comment by Stephanie Dedduang. - Outcome: Motion to adopt Ordinance No. 5313 by Councilmember Stout. Carried 7–0. Item 7.b.i – Ricciardella Annexation Zoning Supervisor Jessica Johnsen and engineer Joe Mailander presented the annexation of 7.37 acres at 2716 B 1/4 Road, with a proposed zone of RM-8. Staff found all criteria met for this Tier 1 urban infill property. - Public Hearing: No comments. - Outcome: The council adopted Resolution 28-26 (petition acceptance), Ordinance 5294 (annexation), and Ordinance 5295 (zoning), all unanimously 7–0. Item 7.b.ii – Noland and Kimball Avenue Rezone Planning Manager Thomas Lloyd and applicant representative Kim Kerk presented the rezone of 1.75 acres to MU-2 to facilitate redevelopment in the Lower Downtown/7th Street Corridor. Councilmember Stout praised the move as a major step toward realizing the 7th Street Corridor vision. - Public Hearing: No comments. - Outcome: Motion to adopt Ordinance 5314 by Councilmember Stout. Carried 7–0. Item 7.b.iii – 29 Road Rezone Lloyd and Kerk presented the rezone of 12.89 acres from RM-8 to RM-12 to allow higher density residential development. Councilmember Stout noted the criteria were clearly met, supporting housing diversity and efficient land use. - Public Hearing: No comments. - Outcome: Motion to adopt Ordinance 5315 by Councilmember Stout. Carried 7–0. Key Outcomes - Unanimously Approved (7–0): I-70/29 Road Interchange MOU, WUI Code Ordinance, Ricciardella Annexation (all three votes), Noland/Kimball Rezone, 29 Road Rezone. - Postponed Indefinitely (6–1): Bicycle Parking Ordinance introduction (Councilmember Stout dissenting) and Camelback Gardens PD ODP introduction (Councilmember Stout dissenting). Both were sent back to staff for procedural clarification or further study. - Adjournment: Meeting adjourned at 7:19 PM.