Public Meetings - Pueblo, Colorado

Council met for the regular meeting on the date provided in the meeting metadata, October 14, 2026; the agenda and transcript identify the meeting night as Tuesday, October 13, 2026. Six council members were present; Councilor Brett Boston was excused. The meeting was scheduled for 5:30 p.m. and adjourned around 11:09 p.m. after the invocation, special recognition, public forum, agenda and minutes approval, executive session, consent agenda, resolutions, two rezoning hearings, final ordinance hearings, and a late-night airport hangar discussion. Call to Order and Special Recognition - President Mark Aliff called the meeting to order. Michael Atlas-Acuna of Temple Emanuel gave the invocation, followed by the Pledge of Allegiance. - Council presented a proclamation declaring October 15, 2026 as Shiloh House Pueblo Day Treatment Celebration Day. Jesse Sena and Michael Botello accepted and said the new day-treatment program is the first in Pueblo since 2012, will be located at the former St. Mary-Corwin tower, and will serve students with behavioral health needs. They also noted Pueblo currently has no psychiatric beds. Public Comments & Testimony - Herbert Comboy expressed serious concern for children's safety at City Park, citing rusted amusement ride parts and hazardous cracks in the skate park. He urged the city to repair the park, preserve Parks and Recreation staffing, and rehire workers who had been let go. - Alvis Martinez urged residents to vote, asked council members to recuse themselves from votes involving donors, proposed a veterans Walk of Heroes, criticized the mayor's conduct, and said an elected official had threatened him. He later asked council to reduce the Humane Society sponsorship and spoke against moving demolition funds out of District 4. - George Consilio updated council on the City Park bathhouse restoration: a $250,000 state historic fund grant had been secured, nearly $150,000 in private donations raised, and nearly 300 engraved bricks sold at $100 each. He also urged rebuilding the Horseshoe Lodge at Pueblo Mountain Park rather than demolishing it, citing the park's national historic landmark status and community support. - Tom Slavonik, a longtime flight instructor, spoke about the Pueblo Memorial Airport hangar dispute. He asked council to remedy the situation and consider an emergency stay of the writ of restitution, saying tenants acted in good faith and should not be evicted for a dispute they were not party to. - Brad Vernon said the Lime Road capital improvement project approved almost a year ago had been slow-walked, criticized $750,000 in airport legal fees, and asked council not to advance airport litigation funds. He supported the bathhouse restoration and volunteered to help with the Horseshoe Lodge effort. - During the R1 rezoning hearing, supporters including Steve Riggus, Marissa Lopez, Anjali VanWay, Catherine O'Grady, and applicant Brandy Adakai said Rocky Mountain SER provides a food pantry, workforce development, commercial kitchen, and small business incubator services. Adakai submitted 16 support letters. Opponents Julie Fairman and Carla Hendrickson said the rezone would change the residential neighborhood permanently, cited prior zoning violations and a religious-service concern, and noted the Planning and Zoning Commission had voted 5-2 not to recommend approval. Alvis Martinez asked council to postpone for more information. - During the S1 HIDTA grant hearing, Marissa Lopez, Teresa from Center for Health Progress, and Sally Moore opposed accepting the grant because of executive-order compliance language, potential conflicts with state law, audit and debarment risks, and administrative costs. Sally Moore also cited new federal grant rules taking effect December 1. - During the S5 hearing, Alvis Martinez opposed moving $600,000 out of District 4, saying the money should remain available for demolitions in that district. - During the S8 annexation hearing, Matthew Cerodi said his produce company is considering Pueblo as a western hub, and Kareem Mayub, an owner's representative, said the project depends on the annexation and could bring hundreds of jobs. Council Member and Mayor Commentary - Mayor Graham reported that an officer involved in a shooting on Saturday had been released from the hospital and was expected to make a full recovery. She thanked the community for its support. She also said the $8 million Lime Road funding was tied to the Project Falcon economic development project and that airport legal fees were spent to protect a city asset at council's direction. - Councilor Latino thanked Pueblo police officers, firefighters, and the mayor for helping him earlier in the day. - Councilor Ruiz Gomez echoed gratitude for first responders, thanked Shiloh House for addressing mental health gaps, noted the lack of psychiatric beds in Pueblo, supported the bathhouse project, and asked for parks and recreation pool data in a future work session. - Councilor Dante said Lime Road should have been fixed for other businesses even if the Project Falcon deal had not moved forward. - Councilor Hernandez said he would work with CDOT and the city on overgrown weeds along Northern Avenue/Highway 78, thanked public works for painting parking spaces near Central High School, and said the airport tenants' concerns were being heard. - Council President Aliff strongly criticized Black Hills Energy, saying proposed increases of 15 percent and 8 percent combined with a prior 7-8 percent increase would total roughly 31 percent. He estimated $38 million per year could be pulled from the local economy and urged political candidates to address community choice energy and PUC policy. Agenda, Minutes, and Executive Session - The agenda was amended by moving item M7 to the regular agenda. The amended agenda was approved 6-0. - Council approved the September 28, 2026 meeting minutes as distributed by a 6-0 vote. - Council went into executive session under C.R.S. 24-6-402(4)(e)(I) to instruct outside counsel regarding settlement negotiations of pending claims, then reconvened. Consent Agenda - The consent agenda was approved by one motion. It included the vanpool marketing contract, two emergency sanitary sewer repair contracts, appointments and reappointments to city boards and commissions, revocable permits, and first-reading ordinances including a Police Department Automated Enforcement Coordinator position, a Lamar Advertising public-private partnership sign agreement, a Project Falcon option-to-purchase agreement, and mechanical contractor license classification changes. Public hearings for the consent ordinances were set for October 26, 2026. - M7, moved to the regular agenda, authorized a revocable permit to Geologic Services & Consulting for groundwater monitoring wells along the western boundary of Elmwood Golf Course to monitor petroleum hydrocarbon contamination. It passed 5-1. Resolutions Q1-Q6 - Q1, establishing Project CI2621 and transferring $300,000 from CIAN18 for airport litigation, failed 5-1 after council debate. Councilors Gomez and Dante opposed the funding source. Staff said the CIAN18 balance was about $324,000 and had been dormant for years. - Q2 transferred $500,000 from the E911 Projects To Be Determined account to the E911 equipment, software, and support project for dispatch radio consoles. Passed 6-0. - Q3 approved $1,200 from council contingencies for the Latino Chamber of Commerce's 15th Annual Festival of Trees on December 10, 2026. Passed 6-0. - Q4 approved $505.44 for the Bessemer Historical Society's Bessemer Trunk or Treat on October 29, 2026. Passed 6-0. - Q5 approved $2,500 for the Pikes Peak Humane Society's Whisker Brunch on November 14, 2026. An attempt to reduce the amount to $1,500 did not succeed. Passed 6-0. - Q6 approved $1,700 for Wreaths Across America at Mountain View Cemetery on December 19, 2026. Passed 6-0. Quasi-Judicial Rezoning Hearings - R1 rezoned 2.95 acres at 330 Lake Avenue from R3 residential to CCN Commercial Charter Neighborhood for Rocky Mountain SER's Empowerment Center. Staff said the neighborhood-scale zoning would still require special-use permits for many uses. Council approved the rezone 4-2. - R2 rezoned 3.601 acres north of West Pueblo Boulevard from I-2 Industrial and A-4 Agricultural to B-4 Central Business District. No public testimony was offered. Passed 6-0. Ordinances - Final Presentation - S1 accepted the 2026 HIDTA sub-recipient award, described by staff as approximately $24,000 to support three DEA task force vehicles. After public opposition and discussion about executive orders, Chief Noller said the department follows state and federal criminal law and does not enforce civil orders. Passed 5-1. - S2 accepted a $241,620 Federal Transit Administration Section 5307 capital grant for two Pueblo Transit city lift vehicles. Passed 6-0. - S3 accepted two Caring for Colorado grants totaling $110,000 to fund the Kid Rides Free program for three years. Passed 6-0. - S4 approved Amendment No. 2 to the Elmwood Golf Course restaurant management agreement with Bregar Golf LLC, allowing approximately $12,000 in kitchen equipment repairs to be accepted in lieu of rent. Passed 6-0. - S5 transferred $600,000 from the Convergys site redevelopment account to the Demolition of Unsafe Structures account after the underlying Circle K transaction fell through. Councilor Gomez urged keeping the money in District 4. Passed 5-1. - S6 approved a 10-year hangar ground lease with Donald E. Staruh at 309 Skyway Street at Pueblo Memorial Airport, with a 10-year renewal option. Passed 5-1. - S7 certified Abatement Assessment Roll No. 2026-1 to the county treasurer. The roll included about 260 liens worth about $214,000; more than $34,000 had been collected, and the program has collected over $1.3 million since 2015. Passed 6-0. - S8 annexed 168.2 acres of city-owned land known as Pueblo Memorial Airport West. Staff estimated annual sales and use tax of about $1,110,000, property tax of about $586,238, and personal property tax of about $58,624. Passed 6-0. - S9 transferred $400,000 from the Airport Fund's unencumbered balance to Project CI2621 for airport litigation. Councilor Latino amended it to $700,000 from the general fund. The amendment passed 6-0 and the ordinance was approved as amended. Airport Hangar Enforcement Motion - After the final ordinance, Councilor Gomez moved to postpone enforcement of the writ of restitution for three weeks. City Attorney Sykes said the writ had 49 days to execute, city staff had negotiated with most tenants, and a stay would undo work done at council direction. Councilor Gomez withdrew the motion after council discussion, and council agreed to pursue a meeting involving council members, city staff, and airport tenants. Key Outcomes - Agenda amended and approved 6-0; minutes approved 6-0; executive session held. - Consent agenda approved, with M7 considered separately and passed 5-1. - Q1 failed 5-1; Q2-Q6 passed. - R1 passed 4-2; R2 passed 6-0. - S1 approved 5-1; S2-S8 approved by the recorded votes above; S9 approved as amended. - No formal stay of the airport writ of restitution was adopted; council instead agreed to continue tenant negotiations. - Public input identified follow-up items including City Park safety repairs, Lime Road work, Northern Avenue vegetation, Mountain Park community meetings on October 20 and 22, and a possible PUC hearing in early December.

Note: The meeting agenda and transcript state Monday, September 28, 2026. The date below follows the user instruction to use September 29, 2026. The Pueblo City Council convened for a regular meeting at 5:30 PM. The meeting included multiple proclamations, public testimony, and votes on several resolutions and ordinances covering airport litigation, housing, zoning, marijuana moratorium, automated speed enforcement, and public safety cameras. The council also moved into executive session to discuss a potential economic development project. Special Recognitions - Proclamation for "Joeylyn Kenley McDonald Day — September 29, 2026" honoring a 13-year-old community volunteer. - Proclamation for "Hispanic Heritage Month — October 10, 2026" presented by Servicios de La Raza. - Proclamation for "Kevin the Fire Pup Day — October 1, 2026" honoring a Basset Hound at Fire Station 3. - Proclamation for "Domestic Violence Awareness Month — October 2026" presented by Mariposa Center for Safety. - Proclamation for "Legacies of Courage Day — October 10, 2026" by Pueblo Latino Veterans Association. - Recognition of the 2026 Colorado State Fair Parade Float Committee for first-place and judge's choice awards. Public Comments & Testimony - Amanda Welty Soto (Eastside Neighbors Council) highlighted community orchard planting, Creek Week cleanup, and requested improved lighting near El Centro. She invited the public to an East High School tailgate. - Herbert Conboy urged that any excess revenue from ballot issue 2B for the Pueblo Zoo be placed in a dedicated endowment, not the city's general fund. - Elvis Martinez expressed condolences for fallen Officer Biggs, criticized a recent Facebook post by the mayor as unprofessional, and requested public commentary during work sessions. - Doug McGinnity opposed the expanding surveillance network, including license plate readers, real-time crime center, and proposed speed cameras, asking for privacy impact assessments. - Sally Moore (Air Without ICE) requested a definition of "hold room" be added to the Key Lime Air lease agreement; she later withdrew her request to exclude ICE transport flights. - Peter Piccolo (Bicycle Colorado) spoke in favor of automated speed enforcement, citing safety benefits. - Herbert Conboy (second appearance) supported speed cameras as a force multiplier but urged that tickets be delivered personally by officers. - Douglas McGinnity (multiple appearances) raised concerns about cumulative surveillance infrastructure, data ownership by vendor Obvio, and lack of enforceable limitations on camera systems. - Elvis Martinez (second appearance) opposed the speed enforcement contract with Obvio and the rooftop camera program, questioning costs and effectiveness. - Sally Moore (second appearance) suggested speed bumps as an alternative to cameras. Discussion Items - M1 – Airport Advisory Committee Appointments: Councilor Gomez noted he had verified the candidates with airport stakeholders and approved the slate en bloc (7-0). - M5 – Elmwood Golf Course Cart Path: Councilor Dante questioned the cost of concrete vs. asphalt; staff confirmed the $148,337.95 project uses enterprise funds (7-0 approved). - M8 – Aviation Asset Defense Resolution: Established project CI2621 to transfer $300,000 for litigation costs. Debate included concerns over prior contract termination and future legal exposure. Passed 4-3. - N7 – Transfer $600,000 to Demolition of Unsafe Structures: Funds originally for Convergys site acquisition (now dead) were moved. Councilor Gomez suggested keeping money earmarked for that site; staff said a future ordinance could do so. Approved 7-0. - N10 – Annexation of 168.2 Airport Acres: Streamlines land-use regulation under city control. Future rezoning expected. Approved 7-0. - N11 – Transfer $400,000 from Airport Fund to Aviation Asset Defense: Debate focused on the airport's FAA compliance failures and need for funds. Councilor Boston reminded council that the direction to defend the asset came from previous council. First reading approved 7-0 (public hearing set for October 13). - Q1 – Non-Congregate Shelters Contract ($834,990): Clayton Homes to build seven modular units at Pueblo Shelter, fully grant-funded. Councilor Hernandez questioned potential non-resident use; staff said no residency preference by law. Approved 7-0. - R1-R4 – Jackson Ranch Zoning: Four ordinances zonining 591.6 acres (A-1, A-4, R-2, R-3) based on annexation agreement. All approved 7-0 after public hearings with no opposition. - R5 – Rezone 0.29 acres at 1209 Nevada Ave to R-4: Approved 7-0. - S1 – 24-Month Moratorium on New Retail Marijuana Stores: Mayor Heather Graham presented the ordinance, citing a 2/3 decline in tax revenue and public health concerns. Councilor Dante questioned whether competition alone would reduce stores. Approved 5-2. - S2 – Key Lime Air Lease Amendment: Councilor Ruiz-Gomez successfully amended the ordinance to add a definition of "hold room" (secured passenger holding area). Approved 7-0. - S3-S7 – Various Grants and Traffic Code Fixes: All approved 7-0. - S8 – Automated Speed Enforcement Authorization: Extended debate on privacy, effectiveness, and oversight. Chief Noller explained that the system only captures violations, data not linked to violations is deleted within 24 hours, and all citations are reviewed by a city coordinator. Testimony from McGinnity and Martinez opposed; Piccolo supported. Councilor Latino changed his previous opposition to support. Approved 5-2. - S9 – Designate Speed Enforcement Corridors: 15 streets/segments designated based on crash data. Councilor Boston asked about future amendments; staff noted three years of data needed. Approved 6-1. - S10 – Agreement with Obvio Inc.: Councilor Hernandez questioned data ownership and retention; Obvio's representative Mike Venable stated non-violation data never leaves the device and is deleted within 24 hours. Approved 4-3. - S11 – Rooftop Public Safety Camera License Agreement: Authorizes city cameras on commercial properties in high-crime corridors (E. 4th Street and N. Northern Avenue). Funded by a DOLA grant. Councilor Dante asked about resident requests; staff clarified the intent is business-only, though the ordinance language does not restrict it. Councilor Ruiz-Gomez considered an amendment to limit to commercial properties. Approved 5-2. - S12 – Pueblo Mountain Park Fire Insurance Proceeds: Project CI2620 established to budget $1.2 million for repairs. Councilor Ruiz-Gomez successfully amended the cap from an unspecified amount to $15 million to reassure the community. FEMA funds will be separate. Approved 7-0. Key Outcomes - Airport litigation funding via M8 (4-3) and N11 (first reading 7-0) moves forward. - Seven-unit non-congregate shelter contract awarded to Clayton Homes (7-0). - 24-month moratorium on new retail marijuana store licenses adopted (5-2). - Automated speed enforcement program authorized (S8 5-2), corridors designated (S9 6-1), and vendor contract with Obvio approved (S10 4-3). - Rooftop camera program for businesses approved (S11 5-2). - All Jackson Ranch zoning ordinances passed (7-0 each). - The council moved into an executive session (7-0) to discuss a potential economic development project in the St. Charles Industrial Park.

[Introductory paragraph summarizing the overall meeting.] The Pueblo City Council held a regular meeting on September 14, 2026, starting at 5:30 PM. The meeting included special recognitions, public forum, council commentary, a consent agenda, and several major agenda items including resolutions and ordinances. Key topics included the establishment of an Airport Policy Advisory Committee, a moratorium on retail marijuana store licenses, an economic development agreement for the Leonardo da Vinci Museum, a collective bargaining agreement with firefighters, and various council contingency fund requests. A total of seven council members were present. The meeting was marked by passionate public testimony, debates over airport committee appointments, and concerns about transparency and community issues. Special Recognitions - A proclamation was presented declaring September 26 to October 4, 2026 as "Creek Week" in the City and County of Pueblo. The Fountain Creek Watershed District coordinates the 13th annual Creek Week Cleanup, the largest waterway cleanup in Colorado based on area covered, volunteers (over 1,000), and tons of debris removed. The kickoff event is at Runyon Lake on Saturday, September 26 at 9:00 AM. Public Forum - Donovan Rincon: Claimed communication via satellite with government entities, alleged the existence of mind-reading technology and clone systems, and urged the council to create legislation regarding these technologies. The content appeared to be a statement of personal beliefs. - Ross Long: Expressed concern about Flock (ALPR) cameras, citing Fourth Amendment issues and a personal experience where the cameras allegedly failed to help identify a mail thief. Suggested that police patrols are preferable to automated surveillance. - Elvis Martinez: Expressed strong support for Project Falcon and criticized certain council members' conduct in the previous meeting. Questioned a donation by Joe Origo to Councilor Brett Boston's campaign, implying it might be tied to votes. Also raised concerns about a leaked email regarding the Da Vinci Museum and the PBR building purchase. Criticized the police chief and mayor over homelessness, a cold-case murder, and his treatment with a mask in chambers. Indicated he would speak to a lawyer about an alleged assault. - Luke Woody: Strongly criticized Mayor Graham for alleged retaliation against him and other citizens, including sending code enforcement after him. Blamed the mayor for the community's decline and insufficient action on homelessness, claiming homeless individuals are being transported to Pueblo from other communities. Urged the council to focus on public safety. - Sally (co-founder of Air Without Ice): Spoke against item N2, the lease agreement with Key Lime Air (Denver Air Connection). Presented photos showing Key Lime aircraft transporting shackled detainees for ICE, citing contracts with CSI Aviation. Requested changes to the ordinance and lease contract to avoid use of detention facilities (hold rooms) at the Pueblo Airport and suggested modifications would be emailed to council. Council Member and Mayor Commentary - Councilor Latino: Introduced an ordinance to delegate limited airport lease authority to the Director of Aviation, consolidate airport advisory bodies, and open airport records to the public. Argued that the current system causes vacancies and delays. Also criticized the state of the airport and the failure of law enforcement to respond to vandalism at local churches. Called for the resignation of the police chief, leading to a rebuke from the president. - Councilor Hernandez: Expressed disappointment that only 30 people attended Military Appreciation Day at the Colorado State Fair, given the 880,000 total attendance. Called for better community support for veterans. Also expressed concern about vacant buildings that attract homeless populations and potential fires. - Councilor Ruiz Gomez: Announced the 988 suicide prevention hotline. Noted continued community discussion on ALPR cameras, with a police meeting scheduled for September 24 at East High School. Requested that the Denver Air Connection contract (N2) be referred for a work session before a final vote. Welcomed the new Pueblo Police Department Class 78. - Councilor Gomez: Expressed frustration over the release of a demolition list showing 153 of 300 homes needing demolition in his and Councilor Latino's districts (East Side and Bessemer). Accused the mayor's office and others of withholding information and lying to council, especially regarding the Da Vinci Museum and PEDCO representation. - Councilor Boston: Defended his integrity against allegations from public comment about campaign donations, stating that donations reflect belief in candidates' vision, not vote-buying. Acknowledged ongoing work to address airport and community issues. - President Aliff (Councilor Dante): Urged the community to come together and focus on solutions rather than conflict. Highlighted efforts by the current administration to address homelessness. Asked for donations to the SafeSide Foundation to support the Donna A. Pet shelter. Consent Calendar The consent agenda was approved 6-1. It included: - Approval of minutes from August 24, 2026. - Various routine resolutions and ordinances, including: - L1: Planning and Zoning Commission Minutes from 7/8/2026. - M1: Resolution appointing City Clerk as election official. - M2: Contract for scum flushing loop at Water Reclamation Facility ($43,569+). - M3: Revocable Permit for Pueblo Community College's Farm to Table Dinner. - M4-M5: Appointments to ADA Advisory Committee and Building Board of Appeals. - M6: Revocable Permit for HARP Authority's "Puebloco" event. - N1-N16: Ordinances on first presentation (set for public hearing September 28, 2026), including a 24-month moratorium on retail marijuana licenses, an airline operating agreement, Jackson Ranch zoning, traffic code corrections, a DEA task force agreement, and automated speed enforcement camera system authorizations. Discussion Items - Item N17 (Moved to regular agenda): Ordinance establishing project for insurance proceeds related to fire damage at Pueblo Mountain Park - Aspen Acres. The city expects up to $10 million from SURS (self-insurance pool) but currently only $50,000 for landscaping has been received. The cap of $10 million is to avoid returning to council for each payment. Debate centered on how funds are tracked and whether leftover proceeds can be used elsewhere. Passed 7-0. - Items Q1-Q10: Council contingency fund requests and appointments: - Q1: Request from Assistance League of Pueblo ($2,500) for Holiday Fashion Preview. Amended to $1,500. Passed 6-1. - Q2: Request from HardKnox Gang Prevention ($5,000) for operating expenses. An attempt to amend to $2,500 failed (6-1); the original $5,000 passed 7-0. - Q3: Request from Becky Baker Foundation ($2,000) for Giving Hearts event. Amended to $3,000. Passed 7-0. - Q4: Request from Pueblo Community Health Center Foundation ($1,500) for Fiesta Fundraiser. Passed 7-0. - Q5: Appointment of Thomas Slavonik to Airport Policy Advisory Committee (APAC) - 2 year term. Passed 7-0. - Q6: Appointment of Bill Evans to APAC - 2 year term. Debate over potential conflict of interest (spouse works for city) and lack of active airport presence. Passed 5-2. - Q7: Appointment of Vance Crocker to APAC - 4 year term. Passed 7-0. - Q8: Appointment of Reese Hayes (Freeman Jet Center attorney) to APAC - 4 year term. Strong opposition from public, citing conflict of interest and lack of local representation. Failed 6-1. - Q9: Transfer of $1M from annual large main rehab to emergency point repairs (wastewater). Passed 7-0. - Q10: Contract for switchgear replacement at Water Reclamation Facility ($928,420). Passed 7-0. - Item R1-R12: Final reading ordinances: - R1: CATPA (Auto Theft Prevention) grant ($125,000). Passed 7-0. - R2: Economic Development Agreement for Leonardo da Vinci Museum ($885,000). Failed 5-2. - R3: CREATE grant for paramedic education ($22,500). Passed 7-0. - R4: Contribution agreement with Martinez Property Holdings ($250,000) for traffic signal improvements (near Starbucks/Chipotle). Passed 6-1. - R5: Agreement transferring airport track to Pueblo Municipal Rail Corporation. Passed 7-0. - R6: Collective bargaining agreement with Fire Fighters Local No. 3 (1-year, 0% wage increase, total cost $361,000). Passed 7-0. - R7: Lease with Marine Toys for Tots Foundation (no rent, waived back charges of $25,878). Passed 7-0. - R8: T-Hangar Lease with Anwaar Saeed Allen ($265/month). Passed 7-0. - R9: T-Hangar Lease with Nathan C. Hawkins ($265/month). Passed 7-0. - R10: FAA grant for vehicle transponders (VMAT units) ($75,881 grant + match). Passed 7-0. - R11: Staffing ordinance amendment in wastewater department (abolish one, add two positions, net cost increase of $34,000). Passed 7-0. - R12: Project for replacing AFFF (PFAS foam) at airport with non-PFAS foam. Passed 7-0. Key Outcomes - Appointments to Airport Policy Advisory Committee (APAC): Thomas Slavonik, Bill Evans, and Vance Crocker were confirmed; Reese Hayes was rejected (6-1). The mayor indicated openness to expanding the committee due to community concerns. - Leonardo da Vinci Museum Economic Development Agreement: The $885,000 appropriation was rejected (5-2). - Council Contingency Fund Allocations: $1,500 to Assistance League, $5,000 to HardKnox Gang Prevention, $3,000 to Becky Baker Foundation, $1,500 to Pueblo Community Health Center Foundation. Total allocated from $85,000 contingency fund: $11,000, leaving approximately $28,250 remaining per the mayor. - Collective Bargaining Agreement with IAFF Local No. 3: Approved (7-0) for 2027 with 0% wage increase and various adjustments to pay differentials, union leave, and sick leave provisions. - Air Service Agreement (Item N2): Councilor Ruiz Gomez indicated the agreement with Key Lime Air (Denver Air Connection) may be referred for a work session before final reading, based on public concerns raised. - Public Safety and Homelessness: Multiple council members and the mayor acknowledged the depth of the issue but disagreed on causes and solutions. President Aliff urged community unity and supported the SafeSide Foundation's shelter project. - Traffic Signal Improvement Corridor: The contribution agreement with Martinez Property Holdings ($250,000 private funds) was approved (6-1), with future ordinances expected to allocate additional public funds from half-cent sales tax and PURA reimbursement. - PFAS Removal: Ordinance R12 approved to replace firefighting foam containing PFAS with non-PFAS foam using state and local funds. - Project Falcon and ALPR Cameras: Discussed extensively but no formal action was taken on these items.

The Pueblo City Council held a regular meeting on August 25, 2026, beginning at 5:30 PM. The meeting included proclamations honoring Andrew Hayes, Kim Bowman, and Mental Health & Suicide Prevention Awareness; public testimony on a proposed train station, renewable energy, crime, and business climate; council commentary on policing, flock cameras, shopping carts, and utility rates; and votes on multiple resolutions and ordinances. Key actions included approvals for emergency storm sewer repairs, sponsorship of community events, carry-forward of private activity bonds for affordable housing, establishment of shopping cart impoundment fees, and postponement of a grant for auto theft prevention. Four proposed sales tax increases were considered: one for parks and recreation and one for roads were defeated; one for nonprofit/contractual entities was not approved; and one for fire and public safety technology was passed for the November ballot. Consent Calendar - Approved all consent agenda resolutions (M1–M6) and ordinances (N1–N11) in one motion, setting public hearings for September 14, 2026. Items included: emergency storm sewer repair contract ($295,504.20 with a $62,485.12 change order), annexation of 89.93 acres (Pueblo Masterplan Communities), confirmation of board appointments, revocable permit for YMCA 5K run, legal services agreement, airport procedures letter, demolition cost assessment for 125 E. 7th St., establishment of Airport Policy Advisory Committee, and various grants and leases. Public Comments & Testimony - Bill Clinky expressed concerns about the proposed Pueblo–Denver–Fort Collins train station, citing a $38 million cost versus ridership projections of 10,000–40,000 annually. He urged reevaluation given city and county finances. - Ken Dante highlighted that Colorado reached 50% renewable energy in Q1 2026 (mostly wind and solar), based on EIA data. - Elvis Martinez criticized the mayor for not addressing the murder of veteran Brian Hunt (43 days ago, no police report), called for police accountability, and opposed a proposed one‑cent sales tax increase. He also argued against shopping cart fees and later spoke against the Da Vinci Museum funding and multiple tax measures. - Gregory Collins, a local business owner, described Pueblo as “business unfriendly,” citing an eight‑month permit delay for his expansion and the prolonged opening of Chipotle and Starbucks due to a stoplight issue. He estimated those two businesses could generate $158,000/year in city sales tax. - Several residents spoke against the BATTLE grant (R1) due to its link to ALPR cameras, urging more discussion on surveillance. - Many supporters (David Lytle, Joe Arrigo, Steve Nawrocki, Christina Trujillo, others) testified in favor of the Da Vinci Museum funding, citing tourism, educational impact, and economic development. - Opponents of the museum funding (Elvis Martinez, Nikki Hart) questioned the project’s financials, claimed broken promises, and argued it did not meet primary‑job criteria. - On tax measures, Elvis Martinez and Larry Atencio spoke against placing any tax increases on the ballot, citing Pueblo’s high poverty rate and the burden on residents. Discussion Items - M8 – Demolition Costs at 125 E. 7th St.: Councilor Dante questioned why a $750,922.08 cost was listed as having “no financial impact.” Staff clarified the resolution only sets a hearing; costs were already incurred in 2024. Approved 7–0. - M9 – Airport Policy Advisory Committee: Councilor Dante asked about the committee’s purpose (separate from existing airport board). Councilor Gomez noted the need for compromise between tenants and the city, suggesting attorney involvement was hindering progress. Approved 6–1. - M10 – Committee Appointments: Councilor Gomez moved to postpone and bring back four appointment resolutions individually to allow separate votes. Passed 6–1. - Q1–Q3 – Sponsorships: All three sponsorship resolutions were approved with minimal debate. Q1 (Chile Balloon Fest, $2,500) passed 7–0; Q2 (Nature & Wildlife Discovery Center, $2,500) passed 7–0; Q3 (Parkview Starlight Gala, $2,000) passed 6–1. - Q4 – Private Activity Bonds for Tava Square Apartments: Staff explained the bonds (not cash) enable $22.6 million in tax‑exempt financing for a 105‑unit affordable housing project. Approved 7–0. - Q5 – Shopping Cart Impoundment Fees: Council debated the fees ($35 initial, $2/day storage, $15 disposal, max $95 per cart). Councilor Gomez expressed concern about corporate responsibility, while Councilor Hernandez opposed penalizing businesses for theft. Approved 5–2. - Q6 – ARPA Fund Transfer: Transfer of $628,819.69 from two wastewater projects to El Centro renovations ($25,000) and neighborhood trash cleanup. Approved 7–0. - R1 – BATTLE Grant (Auto Theft Prevention): Councilor Ruiz‑Gomez moved to postpone to September 14 to allow a work session on ALPR cameras, which are part of the grant requirements. Passed 6–1. - R3 – Da Vinci Museum Economic Development Agreement ($885,000): Extensive debate. Supporters argued it meets placemaking criteria and will boost tourism; opponents cited lack of financial transparency, broken promises not to seek city funds, and concerns about competing with other museums. A motion to postpone to September 14 (with a work session on September 8) passed 5–2. - R4–R7 – Proposed Sales Tax Increases for November Ballot: - R4 (Parks & Recreation, 0.25%): Failed 4–3. - R5 (Roads & Infrastructure, 0.25%): Failed 4–3. - R6 (Nonprofit & Key Contractual Entities, 0.25%): Outcome not recorded; ordinance did not advance. - R7 (Fire & Public Safety Technology, 0.25%): Passed 5–2, placing it on the November 3, 2026 ballot. Key Outcomes - Approved: Emergency storm sewer contract ($295,504.20 plus $62,485.12 change order); sponsorship for Chile Balloon Fest ($2,500), Nature & Wildlife Discovery Center ($2,500), Parkview Starlight Gala ($2,000); private activity bond carry‑forward for Tava Square Apartments; shopping cart impoundment fee schedule (5–2); ARPA fund transfer (7–0). - Postponed: M10 (committee appointments) to bring back as separate resolutions; R1 (BATTLE grant) to September 14; R3 (Da Vinci Museum funding) to September 14 with a work session on September 8; R8, R9, R10 (airport rules, rates, standards) to October 25. - Defeated: Parks & Rec tax (R4) and Roads tax (R5) both failed 4–3; Nonprofit/Contractual tax (R6) was not approved. - Advanced to Ballot: Fire & Public Safety Technology tax (R7) passed 5–2, to appear on the November 3, 2026 coordinated election. - Next Steps: A work session on ALPR cameras (related to R1) is scheduled for September 8. A public hearing for demolition costs at 125 E. 7th St. will be set. The Airport Policy Advisory Committee appointments will be brought back as individual resolutions.

The Pueblo City Council met in regular session on Monday, August 10, 2026. After approving an amended agenda and consent calendar, council heard public comment and acted on emergency construction contracts, contingency sponsorships, grant acceptances, ballot referrals, and other resolutions and ordinances. Unless otherwise noted, votes were 7-0. Consent Calendar - Council approved the consent agenda 7-0. It included revocable permits for the Grassroots Gravel Bicycle Event and Expo, CSU Pueblo's 5K Walk/Run/Roll, Pueblo Community College's Welcome Back and Hispanic Heritage Month events, and the HARP Authority Riverfest; reappointments to the ADA Advisory Committee; the joint Pueblo-Boone Southern Colorado Building Commission Board of Appeal appointment; a September 11, 2026 abatement assessment hearing; and first-reading ordinances covering donation of surplus property to Chihuahua, the Leonardo da Vinci Museum Economic Development Agreement (ED2602, $885,000 from the Sales and Use Tax Capital Improvement Projects Fund), and four separate November 3, 2026 ballot referrals for 0.25% sales and use taxes for parks/recreation, roads, nonprofits/key contractual entities, and fire/public safety technology. Public hearings were set for August 24, 2026, and ordinances were ordered published by title. Public Comments & Testimony - Elvis Martinez, in public forum, said he was “a thousand percent” against the proposed relocation of the entity he referred to as “Pierre”/“Pira” near City Hall, citing potential conflicts of interest; pressed council for budget hearings; criticized lack of response from some council members and the mayor to his emailed budget suggestions; requested corrections to agenda attachments for event dates and the SCBC appointee’s name; expressed concerns about enforcement of the shopping-cart fee; and again called for Chief Noble’s resignation, noting 29 days since the killing of Brian Hund. - Councilor Joe Latino described homelessness, panhandling, vandalism, and public safety concerns he said he witnesses at night, and urged a coordinated community plan. - Councilor Roger Gomez expressed concern that the mayor’s administration blames council for fiscal mismanagement and said council should not be seen as directing how funds are spent; he also said he would investigate LLC arrangements involving public funds and opposed bypassing a 42-year-old voter mandate. - Councilor Selena Ruiz Gomez announced upcoming city budget work sessions and said conversations on Flock and speed cameras would begin at the next work session. - Councilor Diane Dante reported on a Colorado Connection passenger rail town hall. - A resident, Ms. Bertoli, spoke on Q5, asking that Prairie Avenue in front of the fairgrounds not be neglected when funds were transferred away from the Prairie Avenue project. - On Q6, Elvis Martinez suggested lowering the proposed CSAC cap and limiting nonprofits to one source of city funding; Christina Trujillo, executive director of the Steelwork Center of the West, supported the cap as a way to distribute limited funds more broadly. - On R8, Elvis Martinez spoke in favor of referring the Pueblo Zoo sales tax question to voters, citing recent zoo funding cuts. Discussion Items - Agenda amendments: Council pulled M1, M2, M10, and N1 to the regular agenda and postponed R10 indefinitely. The amended agenda passed 7-0. The July 27, 2026 minutes were approved 7-0. - M1 – Emergency sewer repair at 109 Vernon Place: Ratified an emergency construction contract of $210,648.29 with Parker Excavating, Inc., after a sinkhole was discovered during a manhole inspection. Passed 7-0. - M2 – PUB Taxilane Rehab and New Hangar: Set $70,000 in contingencies for Project 25-020. Passed 7-0. - M10 – Abandoned shopping cart fees: Council discussed the proposed impoundment and storage fee schedule and postponed action to August 24, 2026 on a 4-3 vote. - N1 – CATPA BATTLE grant: First-reading ordinance accepting the Colorado Auto Theft Prevention Authority grant of $125,059 for the BATTLE auto-theft team. Council pulled it for discussion of ALPR data sharing; police officials defended the grant and ALPR use, citing a 38% reduction in auto thefts and a 30-day retention policy. Passed 6-1, with the public hearing set for August 24, 2026. - Q1-Q4 – Council contingency sponsorships: Approved $750 for Grassroots Gravel (increased from $500), $1,700 for Wreaths Across America, $1,000 for the Adelante Writers Conference, and $1,000 for the 4th Annual Suicide Memory Walk. - Q5 – Court Street asphalt improvements: Established SR2601, transferred funds from completed street projects, and awarded a $717,000 contract to Caraveo Construction, Inc., with $90,000 in contingencies. Passed 6-1. - Q6 – CSAC grant cap: A resolution to cap Community Services Advisory Commission grants at $75,000 annually failed on a 4-3 vote after debate over whether the CSAC board or elected bodies should set the rule. - R1-R9 – Final-reading ordinances: Approved an IGA with Pueblo County for the November 3, 2026 coordinated election; TP2601 rural transportation planning funding of $16,000; a $275,384 Division of Criminal Justice grant for CIT co-responder positions; a $1,099,282 Clean Transit Enterprise grant; a $2,848,959 Federal Transit Administration grant; an E911 routing MOU with the Pueblo County Sheriff’s Office; a $5,000 El Pomar Foundation grant for El Centro del Quinto Sol youth recreation; referral of the citizen-initiated Pueblo Zoo 0.167% sales tax question to the November ballot; and an airport industrial park lease with L.B. Foster Company generating about $18,000 annually. All passed 7-0. Key Outcomes - Agenda amended by pulling M1, M2, M10, and N1 to the regular agenda and postponing R10 indefinitely (7-0). - Consent agenda approved (7-0); public hearings for consent ordinances set for August 24, 2026. - M1 and M2 passed 7-0. - M10 postponed to August 24, 2026 (4-3). - N1 passed 6-1; public hearing set for August 24, 2026. - Q1-Q4 approved: Q1 at $750, Q2 at $1,700, Q3 at $1,000, Q4 at $1,000. - Q5 approved 6-1; Q6 failed 4-3. - R1-R9 all approved 7-0. - Council moved into executive session 7-0 for negotiations/legal advice regarding the 2026 Black Hills Colorado Electric rate case (Proceeding No. 26AL-0232E).

The Pueblo City Council met on Monday, July 27, 2026, at 12:30 PM (MT) for a regular meeting. The meeting opened with an invocation and Pledge of Allegiance, followed by a proclamation declaring July 27, 2026, as Daughters of the American Revolution Day in Pueblo. The council heard public comments on multiple topics, debated several ordinances, and took final action on a range of resolutions and ordinances. Notable outcomes included approval of the Jackson Ranch Metropolitan District service plan, a resolution supporting the nomination of Plaza Verde Park to the National Register of Historic Places, and dismissal of an ethics complaint against Mayor Heather Graham. Consent Calendar - Approved the consent agenda (7-0), which included: minutes of the July 13, 2026, regular meeting; emergency construction contracts for storm sewer point repairs (four separate contracts with Rust Grading and Excavating LLC, totaling $232,777.57 for emergency repairs on Garfield Street, East Fifth Street, East 13th Street, and a sanitary sewer repair at 2203 East 13th Street); a roof replacement contract amendment with Colorado Front Range Roofing ($74,072.83); a revocable permit for American Legion Post 2 to close the 700 block of West 9th Street for a car and bike show on August 8, 2026; confirmation of board appointments to the Pueblo Zoology Society; and a resolution supporting a HUD PRO grant application (up to $10 million). First‑presentation ordinances were also included, setting public hearings for August 10, 2026. Public Comments & Testimony - Frank Artiaga reported that his gun buyback program, which began in 1993, has collected 134 weapons. He thanked the city and county for past support and noted the program has terminated indefinitely. - David Everett warned about the threat of Sharia law, arguing it is incompatible with the U.S. Constitution and could emerge in Pueblo. He provided handouts and urged council to take action. - Angela Sharp opposed the use of Flock cameras, citing Fourth Amendment violations (Carpenter v. United States, 2018), privacy concerns, and contracts canceled in 95 cities. She also noted that cameras may not meet Colorado roadside safety guidelines. - Terry Blake (business owner, disabled veteran) complained about illegal mini‑bikes on streets and in parks, asserting that police policy prevents pursuit. He invoked the “broken windows theory” and called for equal enforcement of traffic laws. - Ian King (15 years in criminal justice) opposed Flock camera systems, arguing they constitute mass surveillance without proper regulation. He noted the memorandum of understanding with the city expired June 28, 2026, and that the contract grants Flock broad data rights. He urged non‑renewal and public oversight of surveillance infrastructure. - Elvis Martinez raised several issues: a meeting on Flock cameras at the library on August 8; proposed ballot measures (campaign finance limits, resign‑to‑run rules, term limits); the cost of the mayoral runoff ($300,000, low turnout); and the unsolved murder of Brian Hund (15 days prior, his daughter’s 21st birthday). Discussion Items - Jackson Ranch Metropolitan District (J1 & J2): A public hearing was held on the consolidated service plan for seven metro districts covering 900 acres south of Highway 78 and west of Little Burnt Mill Road. The proponent, Aaron Stutz, explained that metro districts are a financing mechanism for public improvements. No objections or petitions were filed. Council approved the resolution (7-0). - Plaza Verde Park Historic Nomination (Q3): A resolution supporting the nomination of Plaza Verde Park to the National Register of Historic Places was presented by History Colorado staff. Carmen Arteaga, Steve Lucero, and others spoke in favor, highlighting the park’s creation by the “Madres de la Casa Verde” in 1968, its role in Chicano civil rights, and its murals. Council voted 7-0 to approve the resolution. - Wastewater Treatment Design Contract (Q1): Council approved a $999,459 agreement with Brown and Caldwell Inc. to design a third primary clarifier and an aerated grit removal system at the wastewater plant. The design is necessary to provide redundancy and meet capacity requirements. Funds come from the Wastewater Enterprise Fund. Approved 7-0. - Pope Block Building Transfer (Q2): A resolution to transfer $900,000 from the sales and use tax capital improvement fund to Project ED 0801 for upkeep of the Pope Block building was approved 6-1. Councilor Gomez expressed concerns about the use of half‑cent sales tax funds for a non‑job‑creating asset. - Affordable Housing Loan Interest Forgiveness (R3): Ordinance authorizing forgiveness of $353,000 in accrued interest on a 2005 loan to Opportunity Builders (42 deed‑restricted units). Staff argued that forgiveness is needed to allow the developer to refinance and repay the $500,000 principal. Failure to approve could lead to default and loss of principal. Approved 5-2 after debate. - Homeowner Rehabilitation Grant (R4): Ordinance accepting a $200,000 grant from DOLA for minor home repairs, with up to 20% for administration. Approved 6-1. - Lockheed Martin Lease Extension (R5): Ordinance approving a lease extension for Lockheed Martin at the Pueblo Memorial Airport (hangar storage, $12,000/month). Approved 7-0. - Legal Representation for PUC Proceeding (R6): Ordinance approving compensation for Fairfield and Woods PC ($585/hour) to represent the city in the Just Transition PUC case. Approved 6-1. - Fire Code Amendment (R7): Ordinance to amend fire code sections was postponed to August 10, 2026, due to a technical error (missing repealer). Approved 7-0 to postpone. - POST Training Grant (R9): Ordinance accepting $147,091 from Colorado POST for law enforcement training in the Central Mountain Training Region. Approved 7-0. - Prairie and St. Clair Intersection Improvements (R10): Ordinance accepting a $621,000 CDOT grant (10% city match from street resurfacing funds) for safety improvements including pedestrian upgrades. Approved 5-2. - Ethics Complaint Against Mayor (S1): A citizen ethics complaint alleging Mayor Heather Graham accepted a gift ($100.57) was reviewed. The city attorney stated the complaint failed to state a claim. Council voted to dismiss the complaint 6-1. - Crisis Intervention Team Agreement (R8): Ordinance approving the CIT Master Services Agreement with Health Solutions was approved 6-0, with Councilor Ruiz Gomez recused due to a conflict of interest. Key Outcomes - Jackson Ranch Metropolitan District – Approved 7-0. - Plaza Verde Park National Register Nomination – Approved 7-0. - Wastewater Treatment Design Contract – Approved 7-0. - Pope Block Building Transfer – Approved 6-1 (Councilor Gomez opposed). - Affordable Housing Loan Interest Forgiveness (R3) – Approved 5-2 (Councilor Boston and Councilor Gomez dissenting). - Homeowner Rehabilitation Grant – Approved 6-1. - Lockheed Martin Lease Extension – Approved 7-0. - Legal Representation for PUC – Approved 6-1. - Fire Code Amendment – Postponed to August 10, 2026 (7-0). - POST Training Grant – Approved 7-0. - Prairie and St. Clair Improvements – Approved 5-2. - Ethics Complaint Dismissal – Dismissed 6-1. - CIT Agreement – Approved 6-0 (one recusal). - Council Commentary: Councilor Gomez raised concerns about noise from modified vehicles, airport maintenance, and separation of powers. Councilor Hernandez noted budget discussions and constituent concerns. Councilor Ruiz Gomez confirmed ongoing conversations about Flock cameras and a work session with Chief Noller on August 17, 2026.

The Pueblo City Council convened on July 14, 2026, at 10:45 AM for a regular meeting that included special recognitions, public comments on a parking lot change and criticism of city leadership, council and mayor commentary on the recent Aspen Acres fire, and a number of legislative items. Key actions included approval of multiple grants for bus replacements and wastewater improvements, rejection of a $400,000 economic development strategic plan, and approval of a lease for an employee health clinic. The meeting also featured heated debate over the use of half-cent sales tax funds and a motion to move into executive session. Consent Calendar - Approved an amended consent agenda, including tabling items Q3, S1, S20, and moving S11, S12, S13 to August 24, 2026. - Approved all consent agenda resolutions and ordinances (L1, M1-M14, N1-N10) with public hearings set for July 27, 2026. Public Comments & Testimony - George Consilia (community member) expressed deep sympathy for those affected by the Aspen Acres Fire and thanked first responders. He announced that his nonprofit received a $250,000 state historic fund grant for the City Park bathhouse and pledged to apply the same community-driven model to restore the Horseshoe Lodge in Pueblo Mountain Park. - Rita Gonzalez (community member) shared her personal connection to the bathhouse and launched a "$100 challenge" to raise additional funds for the bathhouse, with excess going to Beulah fire recovery. She urged preservation of historic buildings. - Elvis Martinez (community member) called for the resignation of the city attorney, alleging professional misconduct and that the mayor violated state law (CRS 18-9-108) during a prior work session. He also called for a change in city administration ahead of the November 2027 election. - Kim Sophia and Reese Cambo (owners of Amenity Barber) spoke against the reduction of parking time in the PBR lot from two hours to 30 minutes, stating it harms downtown businesses, creates safety concerns for employees walking to distant parking, and results in $79 parking tickets for clients. They requested the two-hour limit be restored. - Dave (community member) presented a proposal to transform Pueblo's reputation from a steel city to a "power center of the Rocky Mountains" by building multiple small modular nuclear reactors, estimating 1,100 construction jobs per plant and 100 permanent operating jobs. He announced a town hall at Blowback Gallery within the next month. - Regina Maistry (community member) raised concerns about the roofing specifications in the wastewater treatment plant pre-treatment building project, alleging the specifications favored Garland products and that alternative products were not properly considered. She questioned the bid process. - Nikki Hart (community member) opposed the $400,000 economic development strategic plan, arguing it duplicates work already done in the 2022 Regional Comprehensive Plan and that using half-cent sales tax core funds for a plan, rather than capital projects, exceeds voter intent. She requested a legal explanation of how the expense qualifies under the fund's restrictions. - Thomas Martinisson (community member) echoed opposition to the strategic plan, calling it a waste of taxpayer money and criticizing the lack of a backup plan after the termination of PEDCO. He also opposed further spending on the Dittmer building. Discussion Items - Parking Lot Change: Mayor Heather Graham clarified that the change from 2-hour to 30-minute parking in the PBR lot was due to a city council-approved ordinance from July 14, 2005, applying metered parking rates ($1/hour) citywide. She noted the city is working on a validation tool for businesses and that free parking is available nearby. Councilor Ted Hernandez expressed sympathy for the barber shop owners but emphasized the need for a positive downtown experience. Councilor Joe Latino offered to work with the business owners. - RFQ Timeline and City Attorney Criticism: Mayor Graham provided a detailed timeline of the RFQ process for an economic development partner, rebutting claims of lack of communication. Councilor Roger Gomez accused the mayor of inappropriate scolding and said he no longer trusts the administration. Council President Mark Aliff apologized for his role in a blowup at the previous work session and accepted blame for dropping the ball on the RFQ, asking for grace for council and staff. - Economic Development Strategic Plan (Item S6): Staff and Chief of Staff Brian McCain argued the $400,000 plan is necessary to set a city-owned foundation for economic development, including SWOT analysis and site selection study, and is distinct from the 2022 Regional Comprehensive Plan. Council members were split: Councilor Ted Hernandez, Councilor Selena Ruiz Gomez, and Councilor Brett Boston supported it as a needed roadmap, while Councilor Roger Gomez, Councilor Diane Dante, and others opposed it as wasteful and outside the scope of the half-cent fund. After extensive debate, the motion to approve failed 5-2. - Employee Health Clinic (Items S16 and S19): The council considered an additional $182,175 for HVAC repairs at the Dittmer building (S16) and a lease agreement with Crossover Health for the clinic (S19). Critics, including Councilor Roger Gomez and public speakers, questioned the overall investment in the building (purchase at $1.3 million plus roughly $1 million in renovations) and whether using half-cent interest funds for the repairs was permissible. Councilor Diane Dante moved to postpone S16 to August 24th, but the motion failed 6-1. The original motion to approve S16 passed 5-2. S19 (lease) passed 6-1. Key Outcomes - Item N3 - Affordable Housing Loan Forgiveness: Passed 6-1. Authorized forgiveness of approximately $353,000 in accrued interest on a 2005 loan for the Villas of Pueblo II affordable housing project, allowing repayment of the $500,000 principal. - Item Q1 - Fiesta Committee Sponsorship: Amended to $1,500 (from requested $2,500) and passed 5-2. - Item Q2 - NeighborWorks Sponsorship: Passed 7-0. - Item Q4 - Wastewater Plant Pre-treatment Building: Passed 6-1. Awarded $2,238,647 contract to Baja Construction. - Items S2-S5 - Transit Grants: All passed 7-0. Accepted $15.7 million federal grant and $3.9 million in state matching funds for 12 bus replacements and 4 bus expansions. - Item S6 - Economic Development Strategic Plan: Failed 5-2. The $400,000 appropriation from the half-cent sales tax fund was rejected. - Item S7 - Medical Exam Code Update: Passed 7-0. - Item S10 - ICOR Lease: Passed 7-0. - Item S16 - Dittmer Building HVAC: Passed 5-2 after a failed postponement motion. - Item S19 - Crossover Health Lease: Passed 6-1. - Item S17 - Eagle Ridge Roundabout: Passed 6-1. - Executive Session: Motion passed to go into executive session for negotiation strategy. The meeting was adjourned after the executive session motion.

Note: The transcript opens with the mayor stating the date as Monday, June 22, 2026, but the user instruction specifies the meeting took place on June 23, 2026. This summary uses the provided date of June 23, 2026, as instructed. The meeting began with a presentation of colors by the Pueblo Fire Department honor guard, the national anthem, and an invocation by Pastor Chavez. Council then issued two proclamations: one for the 250th anniversary of the United States (July 4, 2026) and the 150th anniversary of Colorado, and another declaring July 12, 2026 as Eighth Street Baptist Church 150th Anniversary Day. The council then moved through public forum, council member commentary, consent agenda, and a series of resolutions and ordinances. Consent Calendar - Approved resolutions M1 through M5, M7, and ordinances N1 through N22 as a block, with public hearings set for July 13, 2026. Votes were unanimous (7-0). Public Comments & Testimony - Heath Herbert (co-owner/manager, Pueblo Lake Pueblo Resort): Reported completion of land purchase and halfway through Pueblo Urban Renewal Authority process. Requested city assistance for approximately $2,000 feet of sewer extension and intersection improvements on Highway 78 and Lake Avenue, estimated at $17 million. Stated that at full build-out, the resort will employ about 200 people, cost $80–$100 million, and generate $770,000 in annual sales tax (including $105,000 to the economic development fund) plus $900,000 in lodging tax. Emphasized that revenue will come from outside the community and be subject to city sales tax. Urged the city not to commit all resources to another company. - Don Banner (Pueblo resident 54 years, PEDCO member): Urged the city to spend $40 million or more of half-cent sales tax money on infrastructure for the St. Charles Industrial Park (e.g., lift station, Lime Road) to attract future prospects. Criticized past decisions that drove away a Budweiser plant and Walmart distribution center. Cautioned against litigation between the city and PEDCO, stating it would discourage businesses. - Ken Dante: Spoke in favor of the energy performance contract (EPC) ordinance, noting that the city has been working on it for four years. Stated that without moving forward, the city would owe $125,000 to the energy consultant. Cited CSU Pueblo’s EPC saving $650,000 annually, including a solar field. Urged council to support the EPC. - Mark Itken (Pueblo County resident): Spoke in favor of the Front Range Passenger Rail District resolution, calling it a quality-of-life project that provides an alternative to driving, especially for trips to Colorado Springs and Denver. - Elonora Bartoli: Expressed support for the passenger rail project, saying it makes economic sense. - Alvis Martinez: Opposed the passenger rail tax measure, expressing skepticism about the presenter and noting that the service would not arrive until 2029 or later. Suggested exploring other transportation options. - Mark Guerrero (Chief Building Official, Southern Colorado Building Department): Spoke in favor of the energy code ordinances (S1, S2, S3), stating they are state-mandated and that adoption avoids a more restrictive carbon/electrification code. He noted the fees had not been updated since 2016. - Regina Meistry (former council member): Commended council for pushing back on the Ice Arena roof bid, resulting in a $325,143 cost savings on an insurance payout of $695,000. Criticized the procurement process for initially specifying a single manufacturer (Garland) and urged adherence to purchasing policies. - Wendy Rosso (owner, IAN's Pizzeria): Requested historic landmark designation for the restaurant, which opened in 1945 and is the first pizza place in Pueblo, still family-owned and operated. Highlighted use of local ingredients. - Carrie Gonzalez (President/CEO, MX V Rail, formerly TTCI): Supported the economic development agreement for 350 Keeler Parkway, noting that the company has invested over $60 million in facilities, maintained 200 jobs, and generated $2.4 million annually from training programs. The agreement would transfer the property to TTCI in exchange for maintaining 200 jobs at $92,000 average salary for 10 years, secured by a deed of trust. Discussion Items - M6 – Building Permit Fee Schedule: Staff presented a resolution adopting the 2026 schedule, with fees unchanged for projects under $100,000, a doubling of plan review fees (from 10% to 20%), and increases for multi-million-dollar commercial projects to be competitive. Councilor Ruiz Gomez expressed concern about lack of prior work session. Councilor Hernandez questioned the impact on a $300,000 home (fees roughly the same). The vote was 6-1 (Gomez no). - M8 – Legal Services for PUC Proceeding: Approved compensation for Fairfield and Woods to represent the city in PUC proceeding 25V480E. Councilor Ruiz Gomez raised budget concerns; staff clarified funds would come from the airport budget, freeing up law department funds. Vote 5-2 (Gomez and Boston no). - M9 – Legal Services Agreement with SGR LLC: Approved compensation for general litigation consultation. Staff confirmed the law department would handle most work, with SGR providing consultation on specialty matters. Vote 7-0. - Q1 – Front Range Passenger Rail District Resolution: Staff reported that adoption by June 30 would qualify the city for a 10% increase in local return funding for 25 years. Council heard public testimony and extensive debate. Councilor Gomez questioned rail types; Councilor Hernandez asked about the tax (0.33% sales tax on district municipalities); Councilor Dante questioned exclusion of Walsenburg; Councilor Gomez expressed concern about Pueblo being last to receive service (2032 vs. north in 2029). Councilor Latino called the delay “bullshit” (ruled out of order) and argued that Pueblo, as the largest city south of Colorado Springs, should be earlier. Staff explained that the north gets service first due to existing RTD funding and infrastructure. The vote was 6-1 (Latino no). - Q2 – Contingency Funding for District 60 Summer Musical: Approved $2,000 sponsorship for the 66th annual summer musical at Memorial Hall. Vote 7-0. - Q3 – Contingency Funding for Pueblo Regional Youth Tennis Program: Approved $3,000 to close a funding gap. Debate ensued: Councilor Boston questioned why the county, which had said it would fund the program, was now asking the city. Mayor Graham clarified that the city cut part-time employees, not the program itself, and the county agreed to use city courts. The $3,000 brings total fundraising to $15,000 of the $18,500 gap. Vote 6-1 (Boston no). - Q4 – Contingency Funding for Dancing with the Pueblo Stars: Approved $1,500 to sponsor Pueblo Diversified Industries fundraiser. Funds will support kitchen updates. Vote 7-0. - R1 – Rezone 3210 West 31st Street (Pueblo Springs Phase 2): Rezoned 4.7 acres from A1 to R5 for 113 apartment units. Planning and Zoning Commission recommended 7-0. Vote 7-0. - R2 – Rezone 634 Goodnight Avenue: Rezoned from B2 to R2 to convert a church into a single-family residence. Vote 7-0. - R3 – Rezone 229 West 12th Street: Rezoned from R5 to B1 for a thrift store, cafe, and co-working offices in a historic Victorian building. Planning and Zoning Commission recommended 7-0. Vote 7-0. - S1 – Energy Code Amendment (Electric Ready and Solar Ready): Adopted the Colorado Model Electric Ready and Solar Ready Code as required by state mandate. Vote 7-0. - S2 – Energy Code Amendment (2021 IECC): Adopted the 2021 International Energy Conservation Code. Vote 7-0. - S3 – Cleanup of Energy Code Amendments: Repealed obsolete local amendments to the 2021 IRC. Vote 7-0. - S5 – Trespass Ordinance: Amended the municipal code to classify trespass into a dwelling or vacant building as a class one municipal offense (previously class two), allowing for arrest and detention. The Pueblo County Detention Center agreed to accept arrestees. Public comment from Alvis Martinez raised concerns about also fining property owners of vacant buildings. Vote 7-0. - S6 – Federal Forfeiture Equipment: Established project FF2601 and transferred $136,000 from federal forfeiture funds to purchase a trailer, pickup truck, and temporary storage lockers for the police department’s investigations bureau. The federal forfeiture committee (including Councilor Gomez) concurred. Vote 7-0. - S7 – Ice Arena Roof Repair: Awarded a contract to LE Roofing for $369,857 from insurance proceeds, with $75,000 contingency. The project was rebid after council concerns about proprietary specifications. Debate resumed: Councilor Gomez called for a forensic audit of procurement; Councilor Hernandez questioned the 20% contingency (explained as typical for roofing). Staff confirmed multiple bidders and that the low bid was selected. Vote 5-2 (Gomez and Latino no). - S8 – IAN's Pizzeria Historic Landmark Designation: Designated 515 West Northern Avenue as a local historic landmark. The Historic Preservation Commission found it met two criteria. Vote 6-1 (Gomez no). - S9 – Airport Infrastructure Grants: Accepted two FAA grants totaling $404,003 for taxiway seal coat. Vote 6-1 (Gomez no). - S10 – Hangar Lease Agreement: Approved a one-year lease for hangar unit H at the airport to Jason Parker at $265/month. Vote 6-1 (Gomez no). - S11 – Lease Amendment for Wildfire Reload Base: Approved an amendment to the lease footprint for the state fire prevention and control at the airport. Vote 7-0. - S12 – Shelter Operations Funding: Awarded $210,000 from HOME-ARP funds to Safeside Foundation to sustain the Pueblo shelter through December 31, 2026. This was the final source of funding discussed at the March 16 work session. Vote 7-0. - S13 – Adoption of 2021 International Fire Code: Repealed the old code and adopted the 2021 IFC. Staff explained delays due to aligning with other codes. Vote 7-0. - S14 – Conveyance of Two Parcels from PDF to City: Accepted the return of 350 and 442 Keeler Parkway from the Pueblo Development Foundation as leases with TTCI expire June 30, 2026. Vote 7-0. - S15 – Short-Term Loan to Design for Recycle: Approved a $568,064.08 loan from the Plastic Pollution Reduction Fund to allow the company to purchase a bailing machine, reimbursed by a state grant. Loan bears 6% interest (waived if repaid on time, default 12%). Vote 6-1 (Gomez no). - S16 – Economic Development Agreement with TTCI (MX V Rail): Approved transfer of 350 Keeler Parkway to TTCI in exchange for maintaining 200 jobs at $92,000 average salary for 10 years, secured by a deed of trust. TTCI has invested $7 million in improvements, now valued at $10.75 million. Councilor Gomez opposed, citing concerns about the mayor’s office involvement in real estate. Vote 6-1 (Gomez no). Key Outcomes - All consent agenda items passed 7-0. - M6 (building fees) passed 6-1. - M8 (PUC legal fees) passed 5-2. - M9 (SGR legal consultation) passed 7-0. - Q1 (Front Range Passenger Rail resolution) passed 6-1. - Q2 (summer musical $2,000) passed 7-0. - Q3 (tennis program $3,000) passed 6-1. - Q4 (Dancing with the Stars $1,500) passed 7-0. - R1, R2, R3 (rezonings) all passed 7-0. - S1, S2, S3 (energy codes) all passed 7-0. - S5 (trespass ordinance) passed 7-0. - S6 (federal forfeiture equipment) passed 7-0. - S7 (Ice Arena roof) passed 5-2. - S8 (IAN's Pizzeria landmark) passed 6-1. - S9 (airport grants) passed 6-1. - S10 (hangar lease) passed 6-1. - S11 (lease amendment) passed 7-0. - S12 (shelter funding) passed 7-0. - S13 (fire code) passed 7-0. - S14 (property conveyance) passed 7-0. - S15 (recycling loan) passed 6-1. - S16 (TTCI agreement) passed 6-1. - Council moved into executive session to discuss the Lockheed Martin lease under CRS 24-6-402(4)(e). Next Steps: The next regular meeting is scheduled for July 13, 2026. Several ordinances are set for public hearing on that date.

The Pueblo City Council held a regular meeting on June 9, 2026 (as designated; the agenda and transcript refer to June 8, 2026). The meeting included proclamations, public testimony on various issues, council commentary, and actions on numerous resolutions and ordinances covering economic development, public safety, infrastructure, and community support. Consent Calendar - Approved all items on the consent agenda, including resolutions M1–M8 (e.g., construction contracts, reappointments) and first‑reading ordinances N1–N20 (except N4 and N18), setting public hearings for June 22, 2026, and ordering publication by title. Public Comments & Testimony - Stephen Duran (business owner) reported significant negative impacts from the Northern Avenue bike path construction, including a broken sewer clean‑out leading to mainline sewer damage. He requested accountability, better contractor oversight, and that the contractor repair the damage to his plumbing. - Valerie Martinez spoke about abandoned properties on the East Side, specifically 702 E. 8th St. and a burned‑out church at 625 E. 7th St. that leaks asbestos. She asked for an opportunity to present cleanup and redevelopment plans at the next work session. - Alex (Drift Fly Shop owner, Trout Unlimited board member) urged the council to work with partners (Pueblo Board of Water Works, Colorado Springs Utilities, etc.) to improve the low‑flow program for the Arkansas River, citing a historic drought and critical low flows that threaten the trout fishery and tourism. He requested formation of a committee to address the issue. - Elvis Martinez criticized the mayor over an alleged $500 donation to a public affairs director, called for censure of the mayor, and requested transparency regarding the "Advanced Pueblo" initiative (citing $800 for a retractable banner). He also mentioned a CORA request and redacted documents. - Gail Connors expressed support for the Leonardo da Vinci Museum but questioned the process, asking what studies, analyses, and evaluation criteria were used to justify public investment, and whether that framework could benefit other cultural organizations. - Brad Verna explained the purpose of MOUs and NDAs, defended the confidentiality needed for economic development negotiations, criticized the mayor’s public statements, and urged completion of Lime Road improvements and the sewer lift station regardless of Project Falcon’s status. Council Member and Mayor Commentary - Mayor Graham made brief remarks. - Councilor Latino congratulated the Da Vinci Museum and highlighted Pueblo’s four Congressional Medal of Honor winners, urging teamwork. - Councilor Gomez presented a series of requests: a forensic audit of the half‑cent sales tax fund, a third‑party outside audit, retaining an independent attorney for council, dissolution of the mayor’s Advanced Pueblo initiative, noting the city’s projected $10–12 million general fund deficit, and criticized the mayor’s purchases of the PBR and Dittman buildings. - Councilor Aliff (also Council President) responded to some of Gomez’s points: stated a third‑party audit is ongoing, clarified that the mayor did not purchase the buildings (City Council did), and noted that emails cannot be deleted and are subject to open records. - Councilor Hernandez urged healing in the community, acknowledged mistakes on all sides, and committed to pursuing improvements to Lime Road and infrastructure at St. Charles Industrial Park regardless of Project Falcon. - Councilor Aliff (further) stressed that Project Falcon is not dead but "asked for a timeout," and encouraged embracing diverse opinions and continued pursuit of the project. Discussion Items - Agenda Amendment – Successfully amended to: move N4 (Da Vinci Museum) to the regular agenda; table N18 (Project Falcon MOU) indefinitely; move R12 (Fallen Officer Memorial) to the top of the R section. Approved 7‑0. - N4 – Leonardo da Vinci Museum Economic Development Agreement – Staff reported a total of $1,817,044 ($885,000 for placemaking, $932,044 for employment). The museum is the only permanent Leonardo da Vinci exhibit in North America, with a 10‑year exclusivity agreement. The ordinance required a variance under the city’s economic development criteria. Councilor Gomez opposed, citing low average wages ($37,000) and questioning the use of half‑cent sales tax funds. Motion to approve passed 6‑1 (Gomez opposed). The item was then included in the consent agenda for first reading with a public hearing set for June 22, 2026. - R12 – Fallen Officer Memorial – Mayor Graham and Police Chief Davenport (via letter) supported $215,000 from ARPA interest and police department salary savings. The foundation had raised $120,000. Several speakers (Pat Heiney, sheriff, others) supported the memorial. Approved 7‑0. - Q2–Q5 – Council Contingency Fund Sponsorships – $1,700 for Mariposa Center for Safety (passed 6‑1), $1,500 for NALC Golf Tournament (7‑0), $2,500 for Pueblo Symphony Fourth of July concert (7‑0), $1,800 for Pueblo Zoo Zoofari (7‑0). - R1–R2 – CDOT Grant Amendments – Approved 7‑0 to close out projects and return unused funds. - R3 – Noise Ordinance Amendment – Clarified that the noise code does not apply to cultural/patriotic events by government or nonprofits, consistent with state law. Passed 7‑0. - R4 – 2026 Action Plan for CDBG/HOME – Approved 7‑0 with staff clarifying funding restrictions and public service caps. - R5–R6 – Housing Redevelopment Program Coordinator – Added a grant‑funded temporary position (no general fund impact). Councilor Dante questioned financial sustainability; staff assured the position would end when grant money is exhausted. Approved 7‑0. - R7 – T‑Hangar Lease – Approved 7‑0. - R8 – Wastewater Connection Fee Waiver for Pueblo Springs Apartments Phase II – Waived up to $236,170 for 113 new units. Developer Emory Chuckley reported Phase I is 70% leased and Phase II will create $7.2M in local contracts. Councilor Ruiz Gomez raised affordability concerns (one‑bedroom rents $1,550). Approved 7‑0. - R9 – LPC Grant Amendment – Accepted $50,000 incentive for 90‑day fast‑track affordable housing review. Approved 7‑0. - R10–R11 – ATF MOUs – Approved 7‑0 to receive and operate a NIBIN ballistic imaging unit and to allow ATF correlation analysis within 24–48 hours. Key Outcomes - Approved (all votes 7‑0 unless noted): Consent agenda (including M1–M8, N1–N20 except N4 and N18); N4 (Da Vinci Museum) 6‑1 with public hearing set for June 22; Q1 (manhole rehab); Q2 6‑1; Q3, Q4, Q5; R12 (Fallen Officer Memorial); R1–R11. - Tabled indefinitely: N18 (Project Falcon MOU) at the company’s request. - Directed staff: Councilor Aliff to follow up with public speakers; Councilor Hernandez to pursue Lime Road and infrastructure improvements; Councilor Boston to provide additional information on Da Vinci Museum employment details before the second reading. - Future meetings: Work session scheduled for N4 second reading on June 22, 2026; presentations requested on East Side properties and Arkansas River low‑flow planning.