1 00:01:57,374 --> 00:02:01,266 Good morning and welcome to the Board of County Commissioners meeting. 2 00:02:01,266 --> 00:02:03,101 Today is Tuesday, September 22nd. 3 00:02:03,101 --> 00:02:07,604 We do begin each of our meetings with an invocation, and this morning we have Mr. 4 00:02:07,604 --> 00:02:11,552 Lon Halley from Capital Ministries. We invite you to stand and join us. 5 00:02:11,552 --> 00:02:18,192 Good morning. I don't know if you know, yesterday was the last day of summer, 6 00:02:18,192 --> 00:02:24,488 and we see the changing of seasons in the clouds and the mountains today. 7 00:02:24,488 --> 00:02:30,783 But I learned a new word, uh, Ember Days, thanks to our Catholic friends. 8 00:02:30,783 --> 00:02:37,164 And it's a special day set aside in Western Christian tradition of prayer, 9 00:02:37,164 --> 00:02:37,854 Western Christian tradition of prayer, fasting, 10 00:02:37,854 --> 00:02:44,236 and giving thanks for the blessings of nature. And we do have blessings in 11 00:02:44,236 --> 00:02:45,012 nature. And we do have blessings in Colorado. 12 00:02:45,012 --> 00:02:51,652 But that was Autumn Ember Day, which is after the Holy Cross Day on September 13 00:02:51,652 --> 00:02:52,083 after the Holy Cross Day on September 14th. 14 00:02:52,083 --> 00:02:59,241 That's free. I just want to give you that information. The word of the day is fear. 15 00:02:59,241 --> 00:03:05,536 We can think of the acronym FEAR— false evidence appearing real. F-E-A-R. 16 00:03:05,536 --> 00:03:08,899 There's a lot of fear in today's world. 17 00:03:08,899 --> 00:03:15,626 There's wars and nuclear bombs and Islamic invasions, Sharia law, earthquakes, 18 00:03:15,626 --> 00:03:17,523 diseases all the time. 19 00:03:17,523 --> 00:03:23,215 But the— in the Bible, the word fear not appears 300 and 65 times. 20 00:03:23,215 --> 00:03:28,906 Depends on what version, obviously. But there's one for every day. 21 00:03:28,906 --> 00:03:31,580 So like a vitamin, to fear not. 22 00:03:31,580 --> 00:03:38,134 And so in Joshua 1:9, verses 6, 7, and 9, it says, be strong and courageous, 23 00:03:38,134 --> 00:03:43,308 3 times. Be strong and courageous. Be strong and courageous. 24 00:03:43,308 --> 00:03:50,207 So my call for you as leaders is to be strong and courageous during these times. 25 00:03:50,207 --> 00:03:53,743 Psalms 23, which we're all familiar with. 26 00:03:53,743 --> 00:03:59,176 Though I pass through the shadow of death, I will fear no evil. 27 00:03:59,176 --> 00:04:01,676 We're all familiar with that. 28 00:04:01,676 --> 00:04:07,023 But my prayer is that you would be strong and courageous. Why? 29 00:04:07,023 --> 00:04:13,750 Because you set the tone out there in the world as leaders, political leaders, 30 00:04:13,750 --> 00:04:19,269 and they take on the mantle of courage with you, along with you. 31 00:04:19,269 --> 00:04:22,546 And Jesus said in John 16:33, he says, 32 00:04:22,546 --> 00:04:29,703 I have said these things to you that in me you may have peace, not fear, but peace. 33 00:04:29,703 --> 00:04:36,775 In the world you will have tribulation, but take heart, I have overcome the world. 34 00:04:36,775 --> 00:04:39,534 Father, thank you for your word. 35 00:04:39,534 --> 00:04:44,019 Thank you for your encouragement, Lord, to fear not. 36 00:04:44,019 --> 00:04:46,433 You know our weakness, Lord, 37 00:04:46,433 --> 00:04:51,694 and that we live in a world that's with a lot of tribulation. 38 00:04:51,694 --> 00:04:54,712 So I encourage these leaders, Lord, 39 00:04:54,712 --> 00:05:01,266 to be strong and courageous as they deliberate the issues of the day for the 40 00:05:01,266 --> 00:05:01,870 deliberate the issues of the day for the county, 41 00:05:01,870 --> 00:05:07,130 and that they will take a stand and be strong and courageous. 42 00:05:07,130 --> 00:05:11,873 So thank you for this time we have today to deliberate, 43 00:05:11,873 --> 00:05:14,978 and bless the reading of God's word. 44 00:05:14,978 --> 00:05:21,100 And by the way, we Grieve for Cory and his absence with his father, uh, 45 00:05:21,100 --> 00:05:27,482 family matter, so a loss there. So we grieve. In Jesus' name I pray, amen. 46 00:05:27,482 --> 00:05:35,102 Vice Chair Nelson, 47 00:05:35,102 --> 00:05:41,876 if you'd lead us 48 00:05:41,876 --> 00:05:48,649 in the Pledge of 49 00:05:48,649 --> 00:05:53,306 Allegiance. 50 00:05:53,306 --> 00:05:56,269 Item 3. 51 00:05:56,269 --> 00:05:59,078 Item number 3 is staff emergency items, 52 00:05:59,078 --> 00:06:02,751 and I'm unaware of any staff emergency items today. 53 00:06:02,751 --> 00:06:04,645 Item 4. 54 00:06:04,645 --> 00:06:09,337 Item 4 is changes, postponements, and notice of the next meeting. 55 00:06:09,337 --> 00:06:12,946 I'm aware of a few, um, changes to today's agenda. 56 00:06:12,946 --> 00:06:17,060 Item numbers 5C, 5K, and 5L have been withdrawn by staff. 57 00:06:17,060 --> 00:06:21,463 No motion is required, and the next meeting will be Thursday, 58 00:06:21,463 --> 00:06:24,278 September 24th at 9:00 AM for land use. 59 00:06:24,278 --> 00:06:27,412 Okay, item 5. 60 00:06:27,412 --> 00:06:33,003 Item number 5 is the consent calendar including items 5A through 61 00:06:33,003 --> 00:06:39,713 5N7, with the exception of 5C, 5K, and 5L, which were withdrawn. 62 00:06:42,713 --> 00:06:47,577 Okay, is there anyone here today who wishes to speak on an item on the 63 00:06:47,577 --> 00:06:52,302 consent calendar? Seeing none, I will bring it up here for a motion. 64 00:06:52,302 --> 00:06:57,250 I would move approval of the consent 65 00:06:57,250 --> 00:07:02,748 calendar items 5A, 5B, 5D through J, 5M, 66 00:07:02,748 --> 00:07:03,710 and 5N. 67 00:07:05,812 --> 00:07:06,182 Second. 68 00:07:06,182 --> 00:07:08,096 It's been moved and seconded. 69 00:07:08,096 --> 00:07:13,046 I will just provide an opportunity quickly for comments from commissioners. 70 00:07:13,046 --> 00:07:17,666 Seeing none, we will call the roll beginning with Commissioner Wysong. 71 00:07:17,666 --> 00:07:18,598 Aye. 72 00:07:18,598 --> 00:07:20,157 Vice Chair Nelson. 73 00:07:20,157 --> 00:07:20,543 Aye. 74 00:07:20,543 --> 00:07:33,426 I'm going to go up to Commissioner Applegate online. 75 00:07:36,426 --> 00:07:36,474 Aye. 76 00:07:36,474 --> 00:07:38,706 Commissioner Williams? 77 00:07:38,706 --> 00:07:38,949 Aye. 78 00:07:38,949 --> 00:07:43,081 And the chair votes aye. 79 00:07:43,081 --> 00:07:47,212 That passes 5-0. Item 6. 80 00:07:47,212 --> 00:07:51,088 Item number 6 is the proclamation recognizing Creek Week 81 00:07:51,088 --> 00:07:53,303 2026. Bill Wysong, Commissioner, 82 00:07:53,303 --> 00:07:56,748 Board of County Commissioners. 83 00:07:59,748 --> 00:08:06,095 Thank you. I'm requesting a motion to accept the proclamation recognizing, uh, 84 00:08:06,095 --> 00:08:12,687 Creek Week 2026. Whereas El Paso County residents and visitors enjoy a rich array 85 00:08:12,687 --> 00:08:12,849 residents and visitors enjoy a rich array of 86 00:08:12,849 --> 00:08:19,278 natural resources including forests, grasslands, riparian areas, lakes, creeks, 87 00:08:19,278 --> 00:08:24,486 in an expansive variety of open spaces, and whereas among these, 88 00:08:24,486 --> 00:08:31,240 the Fountain Creek Watershed stands out as a valuable amenity encompassing Monument 89 00:08:31,240 --> 00:08:36,204 Creek, Fountain Creek, related wetlands, and existing trails. 90 00:08:36,204 --> 00:08:42,226 The watershed has served as a major recreational resource for children and 91 00:08:42,226 --> 00:08:42,714 recreational resource for children and adults 92 00:08:42,714 --> 00:08:48,736 for generations. It is critical for agricultural in the Pikes Peak region. 93 00:08:48,736 --> 00:08:55,490 And whereas the Fountain Creek Watershed District collaborates with El Paso County, 94 00:08:55,490 --> 00:08:59,802 City of Colorado Springs, Colorado Springs Utilities, 95 00:08:59,802 --> 00:09:05,987 and various community organizations to coordinate the 13th Annual Creek Week 96 00:09:05,987 --> 00:09:06,557 coordinate the 13th Annual Creek Week cleanup 97 00:09:06,557 --> 00:09:10,463 to encourage in, in the protection, restoration, 98 00:09:10,463 --> 00:09:14,043 and maintenance of Fountain Creek Watershed. 99 00:09:14,043 --> 00:09:18,437 And whereas Creek Week is a litter cleanup, education, 100 00:09:18,437 --> 00:09:24,866 and restoration effort throughout the watershed set for September 26th and runs 101 00:09:24,866 --> 00:09:31,213 through October 4th. It is the largest cleanup event in the state of Colorado. 102 00:09:31,213 --> 00:09:37,560 And whereas Creek Week programs and activities are designed to raise awareness 103 00:09:37,560 --> 00:09:37,723 activities are designed to raise awareness of 104 00:09:37,723 --> 00:09:42,036 water quality, littering issues within the watershed, 105 00:09:42,036 --> 00:09:47,895 and encourage organizations and individuals to collect litter and debris 106 00:09:47,895 --> 00:09:48,790 individuals to collect litter and debris and to make 107 00:09:48,790 --> 00:09:52,289 Fountain Creek Watershed cleaner and safer. 108 00:09:52,289 --> 00:09:54,161 Over the last 12 years, 109 00:09:54,161 --> 00:10:00,182 more than 188.8 tons of litter and debris have been removed by over 24,000 110 00:10:00,182 --> 00:10:05,553 volunteers. And whereas businesses, churches, schools, Nonprofits, 111 00:10:05,553 --> 00:10:10,029 neighborhood associations, youth groups, service clubs, 112 00:10:10,029 --> 00:10:16,783 and all individuals are encouraged to form a creek crew to clean up at a Creek Week 113 00:10:16,783 --> 00:10:18,899 project site. And whereas, 114 00:10:18,899 --> 00:10:25,653 Creek Week litter removal activities will reduce pollution in our creeks and remove 115 00:10:25,653 --> 00:10:29,640 clogs in our waterways that can lead to flooding, 116 00:10:29,640 --> 00:10:35,662 provide for a safer drinking water supply, support agricultural resources, 117 00:10:35,662 --> 00:10:39,649 and enhance wildlife habitat and property values. 118 00:10:39,649 --> 00:10:45,101 Now therefore, the Board of County Commissioners of El Paso County, 119 00:10:45,101 --> 00:10:50,065 Colorado hereby recognize September 26th through October 4th, 120 00:10:50,065 --> 00:10:56,331 2026 as Creek Week in El Paso County and encourages citizens to help protect, 121 00:10:56,331 --> 00:11:02,678 restore, and maintain our waterways by participating in Creek Week activities. 122 00:11:02,678 --> 00:11:08,293 Done this 22nd day of September, 2026, at Colorado Springs, Colorado. 123 00:11:08,293 --> 00:11:13,582 By the Board of County Commissioners of El Paso County, Colorado. 124 00:11:13,582 --> 00:11:18,790 By Commissioner Geitner, Chair, Commissioner Nelson, Vice Chair, 125 00:11:18,790 --> 00:11:23,510 and Commissioners William, Wysong, and Applegate, members. 126 00:11:23,510 --> 00:11:28,067 Attested by Steve Schleicher, County Clerk and Recorder. 127 00:11:28,067 --> 00:11:29,093 Second. 128 00:11:29,093 --> 00:11:33,549 Okay, that's been moved and seconded, and we do have a special guest here, 129 00:11:33,549 --> 00:11:36,559 so I'll ask Ali to come on up, introduce yourself, 130 00:11:36,559 --> 00:11:38,968 and we look forward to hearing from you. 131 00:11:38,968 --> 00:11:39,770 Great. 132 00:11:39,994 --> 00:11:44,450 Good morning, commissioners, members of the public, staff. I'm Ali Shook. 133 00:11:44,450 --> 00:11:48,601 I'm the executive director of the Fountain Creek Watershed District, 134 00:11:48,601 --> 00:11:52,264 here again for Creek Week. 13 years. Look at these pictures. 135 00:11:52,264 --> 00:11:53,790 Does this not say it all? 136 00:11:53,790 --> 00:11:56,720 It's fun, it's easy, it makes a huge difference, 137 00:11:56,720 --> 00:12:01,664 and we're really grateful for your support in this effort year after year. Oh no. 138 00:12:01,664 --> 00:12:03,862 Oh, shoot. What did I just do? Help. 139 00:12:03,862 --> 00:12:06,792 I'm going to let the people in charge do things. 140 00:12:06,792 --> 00:12:10,637 Well, I put a little save the date card on your desktops there. 141 00:12:10,637 --> 00:12:15,460 We're really excited to be offering 75 different cleanup sites across the whole 142 00:12:15,460 --> 00:12:18,817 watershed. So this may be one of our largest years yet. 143 00:12:18,817 --> 00:12:23,944 We hope for the year that we don't have to do Creek Week and that we're keeping this 144 00:12:23,944 --> 00:12:26,203 litter-free. You know, thing in mind, 145 00:12:26,203 --> 00:12:30,659 but this continues to be a great effort that we're continuing to support. 146 00:12:30,659 --> 00:12:35,176 It looks like— here we go. First, I want to recognize Commissioner Wysong. 147 00:12:35,176 --> 00:12:39,815 He's been serving as the chair of the Fountain Creek Watershed District this 148 00:12:39,815 --> 00:12:40,121 Fountain Creek Watershed District this year, 149 00:12:40,121 --> 00:12:42,807 and Commissioner Applegate as the alternate. 150 00:12:42,807 --> 00:12:47,751 We've done a lot of work this year under his leadership and just grateful for the 151 00:12:47,751 --> 00:12:49,216 continued support there. 152 00:12:49,216 --> 00:12:53,977 Specifically with the county, we've had a wonderful relationship with you all. 153 00:12:53,977 --> 00:12:56,602 From writing and achieving grants together, 154 00:12:56,602 --> 00:13:00,875 from you all supporting our rain barrel sale that we do in the spring. 155 00:13:00,875 --> 00:13:05,758 We get to store our supplies in the Bear Creek maintenance shop because we don't 156 00:13:05,758 --> 00:13:10,398 have a supply shop. And then educational programming with the nature center. 157 00:13:10,398 --> 00:13:13,206 So it's been a great partnership with you all. 158 00:13:13,206 --> 00:13:18,089 I wanted to just address that Creek Week also ties directly into your values and 159 00:13:18,089 --> 00:13:22,362 action there, being service-focused and collaborative and accountable. 160 00:13:22,362 --> 00:13:26,086 Those numbers, almost 200 tons of trash, is incredible to me. 161 00:13:26,086 --> 00:13:29,687 So to be able to have those measurable results means a lot. 162 00:13:29,687 --> 00:13:33,716 A little note here, when local leaders participate, people notice. 163 00:13:33,716 --> 00:13:38,050 So I would love to encourage all of you to come out and join a cleanup. 164 00:13:38,050 --> 00:13:42,689 Here in El Paso County, there are 12 different locations that you can choose 165 00:13:42,689 --> 00:13:42,994 different locations that you can choose from. 166 00:13:42,994 --> 00:13:47,939 So really awesome that the staff has come around and is supporting those cleanups 167 00:13:47,939 --> 00:13:52,334 for the public. So we like to say Creek Week is 9 days long, no excuses. 168 00:13:52,334 --> 00:13:54,226 It's all of our home watershed. 169 00:13:54,226 --> 00:13:56,973 It's not just Allie's job to take care of it, 170 00:13:56,973 --> 00:13:59,781 but the little actions we do every single day, 171 00:13:59,781 --> 00:14:04,359 from taking a shorter shower or getting that rain barrel to conserve water, 172 00:14:04,359 --> 00:14:07,350 or doing a cleanup in your own neighborhood park, 173 00:14:07,350 --> 00:14:11,013 goes a long way because all of those actions are cumulative. 174 00:14:11,013 --> 00:14:13,699 So there's a number of ways to get involved. 175 00:14:13,699 --> 00:14:18,033 You can hit this QR code or go to fountain-crk.org to join any of those 176 00:14:18,033 --> 00:14:18,582 fountain-crk.org to join any of those cleanups. 177 00:14:18,582 --> 00:14:22,611 We provide bags, gloves, grabbers, stickers, fun things like that, 178 00:14:22,611 --> 00:14:26,701 and encourage everyone to join us. So thanks so much for your time. 179 00:14:26,701 --> 00:14:28,776 I'm happy to answer any questions. 180 00:14:28,776 --> 00:14:31,448 Thank you so much. Do we have any questions? 181 00:14:32,736 --> 00:14:36,677 Okay. Can you share a little bit about the rain barrel program? 182 00:14:36,677 --> 00:14:39,246 Yeah, so rain barrels are legal as of 10 years ago. 183 00:14:39,246 --> 00:14:41,967 We still get that question that, aren't those illegal? 184 00:14:41,967 --> 00:14:44,687 But this is a great tool that you connect to a gutter, 185 00:14:44,687 --> 00:14:46,803 and then you can capture that roof runoff, 186 00:14:46,803 --> 00:14:50,179 and you'd be surprised at how much rain is collected a short storm. 187 00:14:50,179 --> 00:14:51,942 It's a great way to conserve water. 188 00:14:51,942 --> 00:14:54,259 You can have 2 of those barrels at your house, 189 00:14:54,259 --> 00:14:58,189 and your plants do better with natural water than the chemically treated water 190 00:14:58,189 --> 00:14:58,391 water than the chemically treated water from 191 00:14:58,391 --> 00:15:00,506 our taps. So we do a one-time spring sale. 192 00:15:00,506 --> 00:15:02,119 You purchase your barrel online, 193 00:15:02,119 --> 00:15:05,494 and then we have you drive through the Bear Creek maintenance shop, 194 00:15:05,494 --> 00:15:07,660 put it in your car, and you're on your way. 195 00:15:07,660 --> 00:15:10,935 So we'll be getting information out about that in the springtime. 196 00:15:10,935 --> 00:15:12,205 Great, thanks for sharing. 197 00:15:12,205 --> 00:15:12,832 You bet. 198 00:15:12,832 --> 00:15:15,011 Okay, thank you so much, 199 00:15:15,011 --> 00:15:20,458 and I will Bring it up here for comments from commissioners. 200 00:15:20,458 --> 00:15:26,360 I'm going to check in online first with Commissioner Applegate if 201 00:15:26,360 --> 00:15:30,990 you'd like to make any comments. None at this time. 202 00:15:31,314 --> 00:15:31,508 Thank you. 203 00:15:31,508 --> 00:15:36,834 Okay, I'll ask for other comments from commissioners. Commissioner Williams. 204 00:15:36,834 --> 00:15:39,570 I think this is always a valuable cleanup time. 205 00:15:39,570 --> 00:15:42,480 I love the fact that Black Forest Park is on this. 206 00:15:42,480 --> 00:15:43,903 Yes, we're excited for that too. 207 00:15:43,968 --> 00:15:48,163 It's the first time because there's not really a creek there, but, uh, 208 00:15:48,163 --> 00:15:52,958 maybe in the next few years we'll get enough water to be able to call Sand Creek 209 00:15:52,958 --> 00:15:53,018 enough water to be able to call Sand Creek a 210 00:15:53,018 --> 00:15:55,775 creek again. So, um, thank you for doing this. 211 00:15:55,775 --> 00:15:56,369 Thank you. 212 00:15:56,369 --> 00:15:58,811 Commissioner Nelson. 213 00:15:58,811 --> 00:16:04,565 I just want to thank all the volunteers and staff who help manage this program and 214 00:16:04,565 --> 00:16:09,547 all the time and energy spent helping clean up this important resource, 215 00:16:09,547 --> 00:16:13,758 and that we are Giving respect to people who are downstream. 216 00:16:13,758 --> 00:16:18,389 So thank you for those who are volunteering their time and energy. 217 00:16:18,389 --> 00:16:19,095 Thank you. 218 00:16:19,095 --> 00:16:21,800 Okay, I will just add my comments quickly. 219 00:16:21,800 --> 00:16:27,016 Thank you for being here for today and for speaking to us about the importance of 220 00:16:27,016 --> 00:16:31,652 this. I'm going to say thank you especially for that rain barrel program 221 00:16:31,652 --> 00:16:32,103 especially for that rain barrel program and for 222 00:16:32,103 --> 00:16:35,516 sharing that. I think that you're absolutely correct. 223 00:16:35,516 --> 00:16:39,380 A lot of people still don't realize that the law did change, 224 00:16:39,380 --> 00:16:41,119 and so those are now legal. 225 00:16:41,119 --> 00:16:44,854 I know I have 2 at my house and They are a great addition, 226 00:16:44,854 --> 00:16:48,202 especially as dry as it is when we do get that rain, 227 00:16:48,202 --> 00:16:53,032 to capture it and be able to keep our plants watered without utilizing that 228 00:16:53,032 --> 00:16:53,418 plants watered without utilizing that fresh, 229 00:16:53,418 --> 00:16:56,702 clean drinking water that is coming into our homes. 230 00:16:56,702 --> 00:17:00,373 So thank you so much for continuing that program as well. 231 00:17:00,373 --> 00:17:04,430 With that, I will let Commissioner Wysong wrap up our comments. 232 00:17:04,430 --> 00:17:06,394 Thank you, Madam Chair. 233 00:17:06,394 --> 00:17:13,056 Really enjoy being part of the Watershed District, enjoyed chairing this year. 234 00:17:13,056 --> 00:17:17,839 Got a lot of hurdles, but a lot of fun at the same time. 235 00:17:17,839 --> 00:17:22,793 I'll be picking up trash along Monument Creek on Saturday. 236 00:17:22,793 --> 00:17:28,259 And then the rain barrel got mine this year, and I'm a tinkerer, 237 00:17:28,259 --> 00:17:35,262 so I'm in the process of trying to set it up with a pump to actually feed into the 238 00:17:35,262 --> 00:17:36,287 drip system. 239 00:17:36,287 --> 00:17:36,479 Thank you. 240 00:17:36,928 --> 00:17:42,042 And do all that kind of stuff and be able to push a button, drain the tank, 241 00:17:42,042 --> 00:17:45,997 and/or put a float valve. Just all kinds of little things. 242 00:17:45,997 --> 00:17:50,429 That's just what I like doing. So Creek Week is really important. 243 00:17:50,429 --> 00:17:55,816 So hopefully everyone participates and let's unfortunately add to the number of 244 00:17:55,816 --> 00:17:56,089 let's unfortunately add to the number of tons 245 00:17:56,089 --> 00:17:58,339 we pick up. And Ali, as you said, 246 00:17:58,339 --> 00:18:02,976 maybe it will be one of those that we don't have to do this anymore. 247 00:18:02,976 --> 00:18:03,361 Mm-hmm. 248 00:18:03,701 --> 00:18:04,771 So thank you very much. 249 00:18:07,358 --> 00:18:08,955 Okay, thank you, thank you so much. 250 00:18:08,955 --> 00:18:12,012 We, um, have had our comments, we've had our motion and our second, 251 00:18:12,012 --> 00:18:13,746 so we're going to proceed with a vote. 252 00:18:13,746 --> 00:18:16,849 And I'm going to start online with Commissioner Applegate this time, 253 00:18:16,849 --> 00:18:18,610 make it a bit easier. 254 00:18:21,610 --> 00:18:21,626 Aye. 255 00:18:22,598 --> 00:18:23,230 Commissioner Wysong. 256 00:18:23,732 --> 00:18:23,862 Aye. 257 00:18:24,299 --> 00:18:24,996 Vice Chair Nelson. 258 00:18:25,190 --> 00:18:25,239 Aye. 259 00:18:26,162 --> 00:18:30,141 Commissioner Williams. Aye. And the chair votes aye. That passes 4 5-0. 260 00:18:30,141 --> 00:18:33,055 We're going to take a brief recess for a photograph. 261 00:18:33,055 --> 00:18:41,575 Thank 262 00:18:41,575 --> 00:19:04,391 you. 263 00:20:50,541 --> 00:20:53,353 I'll call this meeting back to order. We are on item 7. 264 00:20:53,353 --> 00:20:58,295 Item number 7 is comments by elected officials and commissioner liaison 265 00:20:58,295 --> 00:20:58,852 officials and commissioner liaison reports. 266 00:20:58,852 --> 00:21:04,376 Okay, do we have any countywide elected officials here today? To speak. 267 00:21:04,376 --> 00:21:08,577 I don't see anyone coming forward, so we'll begin, um, 268 00:21:08,577 --> 00:21:12,934 actually we'll begin online with Commissioner Applegate. 269 00:21:12,934 --> 00:21:17,213 No comments at this time. Thank you. 270 00:21:17,213 --> 00:21:19,456 Thank you. Commissioner Wysong. 271 00:21:19,456 --> 00:21:21,598 Thank you, Madam Chair. 272 00:21:21,598 --> 00:21:28,210 Uh, last week, um, Tuesday evening, had a town hall up in Chapita Park. 273 00:21:28,210 --> 00:21:32,308 Uh, it was, uh, Always fun to get, you know, 274 00:21:32,308 --> 00:21:39,014 reacquainted on an annual basis with different areas of, of my district. 275 00:21:39,014 --> 00:21:46,092 And then also went to the Pikes Peak Urbus Foundation United We Serve event, 276 00:21:46,092 --> 00:21:53,170 which is taking the proceeds from the rodeo and distributing it to different 277 00:21:53,170 --> 00:21:57,454 military families. Had the downtown breakfast. 278 00:21:57,454 --> 00:22:04,904 And then we had the opportunity to do a quick opening comment at the air show on 279 00:22:04,904 --> 00:22:09,375 Saturday, and it's just one of those fun events. 280 00:22:09,375 --> 00:22:13,659 This week we had the UCCS Commissioners Lunch, 281 00:22:13,659 --> 00:22:17,384 got a stormwater meeting this afternoon, 282 00:22:17,384 --> 00:22:21,761 and later on this week the BPACG water quality. 283 00:22:21,761 --> 00:22:21,989 Thank you. 284 00:22:22,557 --> 00:22:24,943 And then we have a CSU Extension, 285 00:22:24,943 --> 00:22:30,075 and then we've got a Fountain Creek Watershed District board meeting on 286 00:22:30,075 --> 00:22:30,581 Watershed District board meeting on Friday, 287 00:22:30,581 --> 00:22:34,846 and then of course Saturday, Creek Week cleanup. Thank you. 288 00:22:34,846 --> 00:22:37,541 Vice Chair Nelson. 289 00:22:37,541 --> 00:22:43,570 Good morning. Uh, tomorrow is a full day with a Board of Health meeting in the 290 00:22:43,570 --> 00:22:48,826 morning and then Region 16 Opioid Abatement Council meeting, and Um, 291 00:22:48,826 --> 00:22:52,382 kind of overlapping that is, as was mentioned, 292 00:22:52,382 --> 00:22:56,169 it's a CSU Extension get-to-know-you opportunity. 293 00:22:56,169 --> 00:23:02,353 And so I would encourage the community to come check it out and learn more about 294 00:23:02,353 --> 00:23:06,372 what our CSU Extension partners offer our community, 295 00:23:06,372 --> 00:23:12,710 whether it's if you're interested in 4-H or some cottage foods classes or learning 296 00:23:12,710 --> 00:23:15,570 more about horticulture and You know, 297 00:23:15,570 --> 00:23:21,985 building a garden or a yard that is more drought tolerant and keeping in mind water 298 00:23:21,985 --> 00:23:28,246 usage. So lots of good things going on and just a great opportunity to come learn 299 00:23:28,246 --> 00:23:30,565 more. So really encourage you. 300 00:23:30,565 --> 00:23:35,666 It is scheduled from 4 to 6 o'clock at our Spruce Street building. 301 00:23:35,666 --> 00:23:37,908 So come check it out. Thanks. 302 00:23:37,908 --> 00:23:40,973 Commissioner Williams. 303 00:23:40,973 --> 00:23:44,358 Yes, good morning. It is wonderful to be here. 304 00:23:44,358 --> 00:23:49,656 Um, tomorrow I have an annual transportation policy breakfast in Denver, 305 00:23:49,656 --> 00:23:55,101 which is amazing to me because I don't think Colorado has a transportation 306 00:23:55,101 --> 00:23:55,616 think Colorado has a transportation policy. 307 00:23:55,616 --> 00:23:58,486 But, um, that's at 8 AM in the morning, 308 00:23:58,486 --> 00:24:04,078 and it's done by a group I think called Move On Colorado— no, Move Colorado. 309 00:24:04,078 --> 00:24:09,082 Maybe we should move to— on— move on on our roads a little bit more. 310 00:24:09,082 --> 00:24:15,042 Um, Thursday we have our Land Use meeting. Wednesday night— I'm sorry, I skipped. 311 00:24:15,042 --> 00:24:19,751 Um, I am going to try to attend both a meeting online about, um, 312 00:24:19,751 --> 00:24:24,755 regional cohorts with the Department of Human Services, and then Um, 313 00:24:24,755 --> 00:24:28,066 go to the Black Forest Fire District meeting. 314 00:24:28,066 --> 00:24:32,776 And then I'm out of office for the weekend until Monday morning. 315 00:24:32,776 --> 00:24:36,013 Um, I did want to make one, 2 announcements. 316 00:24:36,013 --> 00:24:41,753 The first is, is that we have for several years done some projects through the 317 00:24:41,753 --> 00:24:44,549 Colorado Department of Transportation. 318 00:24:44,549 --> 00:24:46,609 One was our MAM SIP project, 319 00:24:46,609 --> 00:24:52,275 which stands for the Military Access Mobility and Safety Improvement Project. 320 00:24:52,275 --> 00:24:57,279 That one was Airport Road, Peterson, um, or the Peterson North Gate. 321 00:24:57,279 --> 00:25:01,252 A lot of items around our military bases specifically, 322 00:25:01,252 --> 00:25:06,771 also including Fort Carson in Commissioner Applegate and Wysong's district. 323 00:25:06,771 --> 00:25:08,905 And that project is complete. 324 00:25:08,905 --> 00:25:11,922 And then if you will notice, we are very, 325 00:25:11,922 --> 00:25:16,852 very close to completing our Fillmore Street to Garden of the Gods. 326 00:25:16,852 --> 00:25:22,518 And I think also— maybe our Garden of the Gods Bridge here in a couple weeks. 327 00:25:22,518 --> 00:25:28,699 So we're having, um, CDOT is having a big groundbreaking on Tuesday, September 29th. 328 00:25:28,699 --> 00:25:33,482 Since these are both highly traveled roads, our 2 major freeways, 329 00:25:33,482 --> 00:25:37,970 Powers Boulevard and I-25, we will not close the street down. 330 00:25:37,970 --> 00:25:43,342 Uh, so that is on September 29th, and which is also one of our commission 331 00:25:43,342 --> 00:25:44,004 which is also one of our commission meetings. 332 00:25:44,004 --> 00:25:49,597 But if I'm able to be there, but otherwise it's just a General announcement. 333 00:25:49,597 --> 00:25:52,246 I know we've had a lot of staff, um, 334 00:25:52,246 --> 00:25:58,206 who've worked on these projects as well and helped with some of the grant writing 335 00:25:58,206 --> 00:26:01,443 and helped with some of the actual projects. 336 00:26:01,443 --> 00:26:07,330 And so there is that large groundbreaking at the CDOT Colorado Springs facility, 337 00:26:07,330 --> 00:26:11,598 which is on the corner of Platt and, um, Powers Boulevard. 338 00:26:11,598 --> 00:26:17,264 And then I just was up very early this morning, but Even if it kills me in 10 339 00:26:17,264 --> 00:26:17,705 morning, but Even if it kills me in 10 years, 340 00:26:17,705 --> 00:26:22,930 I just want to say I'm very thankful for artificial intelligence today. 341 00:26:22,930 --> 00:26:28,964 I have had more questions answered as I'd done some research on a problem that was 342 00:26:28,964 --> 00:26:34,409 bugging me in the past 4 hours than I have had in probably about 15 years. 343 00:26:34,409 --> 00:26:40,001 So, and I will say, you know, to our Chief Financial Officer, Nikki Simmons, 344 00:26:40,001 --> 00:26:42,503 they were all related to finances. 345 00:26:42,503 --> 00:26:48,316 So, and she will understand that I'm not in her top 500 when it comes to money. 346 00:26:48,316 --> 00:26:52,320 Thanks. 347 00:26:52,320 --> 00:26:57,868 Okay, so a lot of the same events or meetings that I'm attending this week have 348 00:26:57,868 --> 00:26:58,149 meetings that I'm attending this week have been 349 00:26:58,149 --> 00:27:02,713 mentioned already, but just a quick run-through: Board of Health, 350 00:27:02,713 --> 00:27:07,348 Region 16 Opioid Council, and then of course our land use meeting. 351 00:27:07,348 --> 00:27:10,157 I also have regional building this week. 352 00:27:10,157 --> 00:27:15,072 It's one of the busiest weeks of the year— or excuse me, of the month— 353 00:27:15,072 --> 00:27:20,199 when we have recurring meetings that all happen to fall in the same week. 354 00:27:20,199 --> 00:27:22,165 So that is this week for me. 355 00:27:22,165 --> 00:27:27,853 And I also just want to take A moment to just reflect on the fact that the Denver 356 00:27:27,853 --> 00:27:33,541 Gazette just published projections for the state budget. $1.58 billion shortfall. 357 00:27:33,541 --> 00:27:38,808 I am sadly not surprised by this considering how things have been going the 358 00:27:38,808 --> 00:27:39,370 considering how things have been going the last few 359 00:27:39,370 --> 00:27:44,074 years. The legislature has continued to kick the can down the road. 360 00:27:44,074 --> 00:27:46,883 And to refuse to deal with the problems. 361 00:27:46,883 --> 00:27:51,939 What's interesting is that the Gazette also reports, the Denver Gazette, 362 00:27:51,939 --> 00:27:56,855 that the revenue projections are going up. It's not a revenue problem. 363 00:27:56,855 --> 00:27:58,540 It's a spending problem. 364 00:27:58,540 --> 00:28:03,948 And this is not a surprise for anyone who's been watching the legislature for 365 00:28:03,948 --> 00:28:04,158 who's been watching the legislature for the 366 00:28:04,158 --> 00:28:09,706 last several years. There have been a lot of warnings. It's going to get worse. 367 00:28:09,706 --> 00:28:14,902 You cannot keep spending at a high rate and expect that you can solve this 368 00:28:14,902 --> 00:28:15,464 and expect that you can solve this problem. 369 00:28:15,464 --> 00:28:18,062 And the problem comes, quite frankly, 370 00:28:18,062 --> 00:28:23,540 from a lack of discipline and from a lack of political will and from a lack of 371 00:28:23,540 --> 00:28:28,385 willing to do the hard work that elected officials are elected to do. 372 00:28:28,385 --> 00:28:33,512 It is a perhaps sad reality that there is not an unlimited pool of money. 373 00:28:33,512 --> 00:28:36,882 So all of the people that we would like to help, 374 00:28:36,882 --> 00:28:41,587 all of the things that we'd like to affect, it's just not possible. 375 00:28:41,587 --> 00:28:46,643 Just like citizens do not have an unlimited pool of money, I am certain, 376 00:28:46,643 --> 00:28:48,610 as a homeowner, as a parent, 377 00:28:48,610 --> 00:28:53,314 there are more things that I would always love to give my children. 378 00:28:53,314 --> 00:28:58,160 There are more things I would always like to invest in for my family, 379 00:28:58,160 --> 00:28:59,845 and they're good things. 380 00:28:59,845 --> 00:29:05,463 But I have to sit down at my table and decide which ones are the most important. 381 00:29:05,463 --> 00:29:08,272 Otherwise, I risk going into great debt. 382 00:29:08,272 --> 00:29:08,625 Thank you. 383 00:29:09,444 --> 00:29:12,853 And that is exactly what our state has failed to do. 384 00:29:12,853 --> 00:29:16,131 They have failed to sit down at the table and say, 385 00:29:16,131 --> 00:29:18,622 which of these are the most important? 386 00:29:18,622 --> 00:29:24,128 But because we just cannot keep going this way, that is quite frankly an immaturity. 387 00:29:24,128 --> 00:29:25,505 It is a, a sad state. 388 00:29:25,505 --> 00:29:29,045 And I understand that people demand things, but again, 389 00:29:29,045 --> 00:29:33,306 they need to have the political courage to tell people the truth, 390 00:29:33,306 --> 00:29:38,092 not pander to them. and just say, yeah, we'll give you whatever you want, 391 00:29:38,092 --> 00:29:40,124 because that's just not doable. 392 00:29:40,124 --> 00:29:43,926 We are going to end up further and further into this hole. 393 00:29:43,926 --> 00:29:47,925 And that's exactly what is happening over the last few years. 394 00:29:47,925 --> 00:29:52,120 So I just, I just want to take this opportunity to remind folks, 395 00:29:52,120 --> 00:29:55,136 as we are headed into another election season, 396 00:29:55,136 --> 00:29:58,610 pay attention to more than platitudes and nice words. 397 00:29:58,610 --> 00:30:00,118 Ask the hard questions, 398 00:30:00,118 --> 00:30:05,231 because what is happening in our state is devastating to our entire community. 399 00:30:05,231 --> 00:30:07,657 One of the huge things, and again, I— 400 00:30:07,657 --> 00:30:11,328 this has probably been on my radar for at least 8 years, 401 00:30:11,328 --> 00:30:15,196 is the increased spending that we are seeing on healthcare. 402 00:30:15,196 --> 00:30:20,571 We cannot continue to cover everybody and everything and expect that those dollars 403 00:30:20,571 --> 00:30:21,948 are going to stretch. 404 00:30:21,948 --> 00:30:26,471 We need to ensure that those who are truly in need, the most in need, 405 00:30:26,471 --> 00:30:28,110 have this coverage there. 406 00:30:28,110 --> 00:30:33,027 And that will not be the case if we continue to say everyone should have it 407 00:30:33,027 --> 00:30:33,223 continue to say everyone should have it and 408 00:30:33,223 --> 00:30:37,353 everyone should have access. Again, those would be nice things. 409 00:30:37,353 --> 00:30:40,435 That sounds nice when a politician says to you, 410 00:30:40,435 --> 00:30:45,351 it would be great if everyone got everything all the time that they needed. 411 00:30:45,351 --> 00:30:47,318 I wish that could be the case. 412 00:30:47,318 --> 00:30:52,431 But the reality is what that leads to is those who are the most vulnerable are 413 00:30:52,431 --> 00:30:52,759 those who are the most vulnerable are going 414 00:30:52,759 --> 00:30:57,282 to be in danger of not being able to get the services that they need. 415 00:30:57,282 --> 00:31:00,691 So we need to make sure that we are focused on that. 416 00:31:00,691 --> 00:31:02,395 I just encourage everyone, 417 00:31:02,395 --> 00:31:07,509 if you have not heard about the issues that our state is facing, get informed, 418 00:31:07,509 --> 00:31:09,213 share with your neighbors, 419 00:31:09,213 --> 00:31:13,933 because our state is in real trouble if we can't turn this thing around. 420 00:31:13,933 --> 00:31:19,178 And it's going to require discipline from our legislators and understanding from 421 00:31:19,178 --> 00:31:23,439 citizens that you— the old saying— can't get blood from a turnip. 422 00:31:23,439 --> 00:31:28,486 So we have to be responsible. And, and that trickles down here to the county. 423 00:31:28,486 --> 00:31:32,944 So So every time we see these deficits, we see the state passing on, 424 00:31:32,944 --> 00:31:37,926 trying to pass on more costs to us and saying, we don't have the discipline. 425 00:31:37,926 --> 00:31:41,860 We don't have the discipline to say we got to stop spending. 426 00:31:41,860 --> 00:31:45,990 So we're going to say, let's do it and you guys find the money. 427 00:31:45,990 --> 00:31:51,234 And that, that is a detriment to all of our residents here because it means that 428 00:31:51,234 --> 00:31:51,365 our residents here because it means that we 429 00:31:51,365 --> 00:31:56,151 are constantly juggling things that we have already said we can't afford. 430 00:31:56,151 --> 00:32:00,674 So with that, I will close out my comments and we can move to item 8. 431 00:32:00,674 --> 00:32:06,124 Item number 8 is community service organization reports, and there are none. 432 00:32:07,932 --> 00:32:08,383 Item 9. 433 00:32:09,220 --> 00:32:12,668 Item number 9 is public comment on items not scheduled on the agenda. 434 00:32:12,668 --> 00:32:15,516 The commissioners welcome communication in various forms. 435 00:32:15,516 --> 00:32:18,715 However, the public comment period is not intended for dialogue, 436 00:32:18,715 --> 00:32:21,963 and commissioners do not engage in conversation during this time. 437 00:32:21,963 --> 00:32:25,911 Members of the public seeking responses to specific questions are encouraged to 438 00:32:25,911 --> 00:32:27,960 submit inquiries through Citizen Connect. 439 00:32:27,960 --> 00:32:30,758 And Madam Chair, I'm unaware of anyone signing in today. 440 00:32:30,758 --> 00:32:36,448 Okay, is there anyone here who wishes to speak on an item that 441 00:32:36,448 --> 00:32:42,230 is not on the agenda? Okay, seeing none, we'll move to item 10. 442 00:32:42,230 --> 00:32:46,593 Item number 10 is the called-up consent calendar, and there are no items called 443 00:32:46,593 --> 00:32:46,759 calendar, and there are no items called up. 444 00:32:49,551 --> 00:32:50,097 Item 11. 445 00:32:50,097 --> 00:32:54,616 Item number 11 is the hearing on the application by Celebrations Den Reich LLC, 446 00:32:54,616 --> 00:32:56,847 doing business as Black Forest Meadows, 447 00:32:56,847 --> 00:33:01,651 for an optional premise liquor license on the premises located at 17104 Goshawk Road 448 00:33:01,651 --> 00:33:04,283 East, El Paso County, Commissioner District 1. 449 00:33:04,283 --> 00:33:06,685 Jackie Allred, clerk to the board manager. 450 00:33:06,685 --> 00:33:10,918 Um, the application does qualify for an abbreviated hearing at the board's 451 00:33:10,918 --> 00:33:12,519 discretion, and Madam Chair, 452 00:33:12,519 --> 00:33:16,752 at this time I can provide some information on the record for the board to 453 00:33:16,752 --> 00:33:17,267 information on the record for the board to consider. 454 00:33:17,604 --> 00:33:17,860 Please. 455 00:33:17,860 --> 00:33:21,294 The applicant has fulfilled all state and local requirements. 456 00:33:21,294 --> 00:33:25,854 The neighborhood survey supports the needs and desires of the local community for 457 00:33:25,854 --> 00:33:27,093 the requested license, 458 00:33:27,093 --> 00:33:30,864 and Liquor Pros is here today to present the results of the survey. 459 00:33:30,864 --> 00:33:35,143 No opposition has been voiced against the issuance of the requested license. 460 00:33:35,143 --> 00:33:39,703 The sheriff's investigation revealed no criminal history relevant to the issuance 461 00:33:39,703 --> 00:33:39,816 criminal history relevant to the issuance of 462 00:33:39,816 --> 00:33:41,899 the liquor license. And at this time, 463 00:33:41,899 --> 00:33:46,571 I would ask if there is anyone present in the audience today to formally oppose the 464 00:33:46,571 --> 00:33:48,485 issuance of the requested license. 465 00:33:48,485 --> 00:33:53,102 And seeing none, I would turn it over to the board to consider if the hearing will 466 00:33:53,102 --> 00:33:53,946 be abbreviated. 467 00:33:53,946 --> 00:33:58,825 Okay, and so we do need a motion if we would like to hear this as an 468 00:33:58,825 --> 00:34:00,260 abbreviated hearing, 469 00:34:00,260 --> 00:34:03,847 and I would ask commissioners if there's a motion. 470 00:34:03,847 --> 00:34:07,057 I move for an abbreviated hearing. 471 00:34:07,057 --> 00:34:07,942 Second. 472 00:34:07,942 --> 00:34:14,485 Okay, moved and seconded. Any comments before we take a vote? 473 00:34:14,485 --> 00:34:16,952 All right, seeing none, 474 00:34:16,952 --> 00:34:21,671 we'll begin online with Commissioner Wysong. 475 00:34:21,671 --> 00:34:27,678 Sorry, Commissioner Applegate. No comments at this time. 476 00:34:28,002 --> 00:34:28,260 Thank you. 477 00:34:28,260 --> 00:34:30,212 Uh, Commissioner Applegate, 478 00:34:30,212 --> 00:34:36,213 we are taking a vote on whether we would like to hear an abbreviated hearing on the 479 00:34:36,213 --> 00:34:40,117 liquor license. Would you like us to come back to you? 480 00:34:40,117 --> 00:34:43,881 Yeah, it's a vote. It's a yes vote. Sorry. 481 00:34:43,881 --> 00:34:46,838 Okay. Yes from Commissioner Applegate. Commissioner Wysong? 482 00:34:46,838 --> 00:34:47,465 Aye. 483 00:34:47,465 --> 00:34:48,686 Vice Chair Nelson? 484 00:34:48,686 --> 00:34:48,991 Aye. 485 00:34:48,991 --> 00:34:50,293 Commissioner Williams? 486 00:34:50,293 --> 00:34:50,486 Aye. 487 00:34:50,486 --> 00:34:52,805 And the chair votes aye. That passes 5-0. 488 00:34:52,805 --> 00:35:11,350 So we'll proceed with an abbreviated hearing. 489 00:35:16,678 --> 00:35:19,734 Um, good morning, Madam Chair, members of the authority. 490 00:35:19,734 --> 00:35:22,190 Uh, for the record, my name is Eva Garretson. 491 00:35:22,190 --> 00:35:26,228 I am with Liquor Pros, and we conducted the needs and desires hearing, uh, 492 00:35:26,228 --> 00:35:27,701 regarding this application. 493 00:35:27,701 --> 00:35:30,693 Hi everyone, my name is Macy. Thank you for having us here. 494 00:35:30,693 --> 00:35:34,141 Um, me and my family are here applying for the liquor license today. 495 00:35:35,651 --> 00:35:36,149 Well, welcome. 496 00:35:36,309 --> 00:35:36,566 Go ahead. 497 00:35:36,566 --> 00:35:38,984 All right, thank you, Madam Chair. 498 00:35:38,984 --> 00:35:43,393 Um, once again, for the record, uh, Liquor Pros was hired, um, 499 00:35:43,393 --> 00:35:49,366 as the petitioning company to conduct the needs and desires survey regarding the new 500 00:35:49,366 --> 00:35:53,419 optional premise liquor license for Black Forest Meadows, 501 00:35:53,419 --> 00:35:59,392 located at 17104 Goshawk Road E, Colorado Springs. Um, the map was provided with us. 502 00:35:59,392 --> 00:36:04,868 Miss Jackie Allred, always wonderful to work with. I can't even Express that. 503 00:36:04,868 --> 00:36:09,775 It's so great when folks know what they're doing. She's just amazing. 504 00:36:09,775 --> 00:36:15,606 So we went out on the dates of Tuesday, September 1st, and Friday, September 11th, 505 00:36:15,606 --> 00:36:18,450 to conduct the needs and desires survey. 506 00:36:18,450 --> 00:36:22,005 Once again, we are a third-party petition company, 507 00:36:22,005 --> 00:36:24,850 which means we do not guarantee results. 508 00:36:24,850 --> 00:36:28,832 We simply provide the survey, and the results are as is, 509 00:36:28,832 --> 00:36:32,956 and that is explained in our agreement with the applicant. 510 00:36:32,956 --> 00:36:37,223 So we do take a no just as much as we take a yes. Thank you. 511 00:36:37,223 --> 00:36:42,699 So of this, this particular area, lots of vacant land, a lot of locked areas. 512 00:36:42,699 --> 00:36:45,614 There's a reason people get off the grid. 513 00:36:45,614 --> 00:36:51,232 And so when we run into a gate or a sign saying that we are not allowed access, 514 00:36:51,232 --> 00:36:54,432 we 100% respect that from the property owner. 515 00:36:54,432 --> 00:36:57,490 And so we do not make any forward attempts. 516 00:36:57,490 --> 00:37:02,467 Or if there's vacant land, we do have the vacant land owner report Um, 517 00:37:02,467 --> 00:37:04,387 that we do turn in as well. 518 00:37:04,387 --> 00:37:10,005 Um, of the 120 attempted contacts, we did, uh, obtain a total of 31 signatures. 519 00:37:10,005 --> 00:37:14,129 There are no businesses out in this area, all residential. 520 00:37:14,129 --> 00:37:19,320 Um, but of the 31 residents that we did, um, gather feedback for, 23, um, 521 00:37:19,320 --> 00:37:23,943 signed in favor at 74%, 7 with no opinion, or 7 opposed with 23%. 522 00:37:23,943 --> 00:37:25,791 one with no opinion at 3%. 523 00:37:25,791 --> 00:37:28,849 If we combine— if we remove the no opinion, 524 00:37:28,849 --> 00:37:32,689 we actually have 77% signing in favor and 23% opposed. 525 00:37:32,689 --> 00:37:38,449 We actually do ask those folks to write in in order to provide the authority with 526 00:37:38,449 --> 00:37:43,356 more feedback as to why they are in favor or opposed to this license. 527 00:37:43,356 --> 00:37:48,973 We do gather factual information and the concept of what they are trying to do. 528 00:37:48,973 --> 00:37:54,662 We relay that information back to those residents in the area as to what type of 529 00:37:54,662 --> 00:37:56,653 liquor license is coming in. 530 00:37:56,653 --> 00:37:59,995 In this case, it is an optional liquor license, 531 00:37:59,995 --> 00:38:05,187 so we do let them know this is a full liquor license, meaning beer, wine, 532 00:38:05,187 --> 00:38:08,315 and hard spirits. So we did relay that back, 533 00:38:08,315 --> 00:38:13,933 and you will hear from the applicant as to who they are and what they're doing. 534 00:38:13,933 --> 00:38:16,066 But the reasons of opposition, 535 00:38:16,066 --> 00:38:21,542 we did ask them to write in because there are reasons that may not qualify as 536 00:38:21,542 --> 00:38:23,106 reasons of opposition. 537 00:38:23,106 --> 00:38:27,657 Because they don't speak to the relevance of the liquor license. 538 00:38:27,657 --> 00:38:32,635 So, um, on page 2, we had 5 that declined to provide us with a reason. 539 00:38:32,635 --> 00:38:38,040 One stated they were against alcohol, which actually kind of kicks them out, 540 00:38:38,040 --> 00:38:40,884 and one stated loud noise late at night. 541 00:38:40,884 --> 00:38:44,937 Um, we didn't mention any noise, anything of that nature. 542 00:38:44,937 --> 00:38:49,702 Um, I don't know what the concept of that was going to be, but, um, 543 00:38:49,702 --> 00:38:55,604 so if the authority allows This actually just bumps up this to 82% in favor and 18% 544 00:38:55,604 --> 00:38:57,879 opposed. If we do combine those, 545 00:38:57,879 --> 00:39:03,710 because we did get the vacant landowner report back, we did have 2 yes signatures, 546 00:39:03,710 --> 00:39:06,199 2 no signatures, and 3 no opinions. 547 00:39:06,199 --> 00:39:11,746 We actually added and combined those percentages along with the report that we 548 00:39:11,746 --> 00:39:12,101 percentages along with the report that we have. 549 00:39:12,101 --> 00:39:17,008 Just the vacant landowner, we have 29% signing in favor, 29% opposed. 550 00:39:17,008 --> 00:39:22,768 Opposed, and 43% with no opinion. If we combine these, it's just our raw numbers. 551 00:39:22,768 --> 00:39:26,750 It's 66% in favor, 23% opposed, and 11% with no opinion. 552 00:39:26,750 --> 00:39:28,599 We remove that no opinion, 553 00:39:28,599 --> 00:39:32,794 that actually bumps the in favor up to 74% and 26% opposed. 554 00:39:32,794 --> 00:39:38,128 And then if we remove those 2 opposition that were not considered relevant, 555 00:39:38,128 --> 00:39:40,474 that actually bumps us up to 78%. 556 00:39:40,474 --> 00:39:43,745 It isn't a standard higher number that we see, 557 00:39:43,745 --> 00:39:47,372 but it is still a favorable percentage in the area. 558 00:39:47,372 --> 00:39:51,639 So we still feel like this shows a positive need and desire. 559 00:39:51,639 --> 00:39:55,692 Currently, there are no other license types in this area, 560 00:39:55,692 --> 00:39:59,745 which actually in itself shows a need and desire legally. 561 00:39:59,745 --> 00:40:02,447 So we do see— say that there— this is— 562 00:40:02,447 --> 00:40:08,350 does qualify for this license in the area and that any existing outlets had not met 563 00:40:08,350 --> 00:40:13,114 that need. I'd be happy to answer any questions from the authority. 564 00:40:13,114 --> 00:40:17,228 Commissioner Nelson, I'm curious about, uh, 565 00:40:17,228 --> 00:40:24,882 is it based on statute when you decide whether an opposition comment is relevant 566 00:40:24,882 --> 00:40:28,230 or not? That's in Colorado statute? 567 00:40:28,230 --> 00:40:30,824 Yes, ma'am. It's, uh, Mobile v. Myers. 568 00:40:30,824 --> 00:40:34,715 It was a case back in like 1980s in Aurora where any, um— 569 00:40:34,715 --> 00:40:39,836 so if I sit there and said, well, my uncle died of alcoholism back in 1972. 570 00:40:39,836 --> 00:40:45,365 They didn't cause it. They didn't do that. Traffic, I mean, they have no control. 571 00:40:45,365 --> 00:40:48,028 It's stuff that's not in their control. 572 00:40:48,028 --> 00:40:52,602 But a need and desire, if you say there's no need, there's no want, 573 00:40:52,602 --> 00:40:55,879 there's no desire, those actually speak to that. 574 00:40:55,879 --> 00:41:00,726 Anything other than that that is irrelevant, that's what that Mobile v. 575 00:41:00,726 --> 00:41:04,617 Meyer case stated, is that those reasons can be excluded. 576 00:41:04,617 --> 00:41:06,938 If the authority chooses to do so. 577 00:41:07,296 --> 00:41:08,102 Okay, thank you. 578 00:41:11,102 --> 00:41:18,961 Okay, any other questions at this time? Okay, okay, thank you. 579 00:41:18,961 --> 00:41:22,395 Okay, so in reading through this 580 00:41:22,395 --> 00:41:26,687 application, um, it looks like you do an 581 00:41:26,687 --> 00:41:28,082 event center. 582 00:41:28,082 --> 00:41:32,504 We are, yes. We're a seasonal wedding and event center operating between May through 583 00:41:32,504 --> 00:41:32,925 October. 584 00:41:33,637 --> 00:41:37,202 Okay, that's wonderful. So this would be in relation to that? 585 00:41:37,202 --> 00:41:40,072 Correct, yes. So currently our couples and outside groups, 586 00:41:40,072 --> 00:41:42,200 they're able to bring in their own alcohol, 587 00:41:42,200 --> 00:41:44,229 but we're not able to properly manage it, 588 00:41:44,229 --> 00:41:47,445 see like what they're bringing in and how much they're consuming. 589 00:41:47,445 --> 00:41:51,206 So we do just want a little bit more control for the safety of the property. 590 00:41:51,206 --> 00:41:56,255 Okay, and I actually like that answer. That was really good. 591 00:41:56,255 --> 00:42:01,641 Um, if you have— so If they bring in their own alcohol and such, 592 00:42:01,641 --> 00:42:06,942 or even if you're serving it— sorry, I'm talking with my hands— 593 00:42:06,942 --> 00:42:12,833 what are you going to do to make sure you check licenses for underage? 594 00:42:12,833 --> 00:42:16,694 So our plan is to hire established bartenders that are TIP certified. 595 00:42:16,694 --> 00:42:21,114 We've already been speaking with a bunch of local companies that offer services 596 00:42:21,114 --> 00:42:21,338 of local companies that offer services that 597 00:42:21,338 --> 00:42:23,800 work in conjunction with the liquor license. 598 00:42:23,800 --> 00:42:27,996 So we think we want to hire outsourced versus bringing in our own staff and 599 00:42:27,996 --> 00:42:29,507 overseeing that side of it. 600 00:42:30,180 --> 00:42:35,441 Okay, that's the important thing, is to make sure that we don't serve underage. 601 00:42:35,441 --> 00:42:37,173 Yes, that's it. Thank you. 602 00:42:37,543 --> 00:42:37,962 Absolutely. 603 00:42:38,043 --> 00:42:38,300 Thank you. 604 00:42:38,300 --> 00:42:42,413 Okay, any additional questions at 605 00:42:42,413 --> 00:42:46,651 this time? No. Okay, I think then— 606 00:42:47,007 --> 00:42:47,234 go ahead. 607 00:42:47,234 --> 00:42:52,920 I am very happy to move approval of the liquor license for Celebrations Done Right 608 00:42:52,920 --> 00:42:53,197 LLC. 609 00:42:53,197 --> 00:42:54,286 Second. 610 00:42:55,278 --> 00:42:57,999 Okay, that has been moved and seconded. 611 00:42:57,999 --> 00:43:00,650 One last opportunity for any comments. 612 00:43:00,650 --> 00:43:05,324 Seeing none, we will, um, begin online with Commissioner Applegate. 613 00:43:05,324 --> 00:43:09,269 Yes. 614 00:43:09,269 --> 00:43:10,459 Commissioner Wysong. 615 00:43:10,459 --> 00:43:11,150 Aye. 616 00:43:11,150 --> 00:43:12,533 Vice Chair Nelson. 617 00:43:12,533 --> 00:43:12,855 Aye. 618 00:43:12,855 --> 00:43:14,318 Commissioner Williams. 619 00:43:14,318 --> 00:43:14,543 Aye. 620 00:43:14,543 --> 00:43:18,644 And the chair votes aye. That passes 5-0. 621 00:43:18,644 --> 00:43:20,644 Thank you, everyone. 622 00:43:20,644 --> 00:43:23,645 Okay, we will move to item 12. 623 00:43:23,645 --> 00:43:27,731 Item number 12 is department and committee reports, non-action items, 624 00:43:27,731 --> 00:43:28,856 and there are none. 625 00:43:28,856 --> 00:43:30,363 Item 13. 626 00:43:30,363 --> 00:43:33,458 Item 13 is the addendum, and there are no addendums today. 627 00:43:33,458 --> 00:43:34,548 Item 14. 628 00:43:34,548 --> 00:43:38,556 Item 14 is the executive session, and there is no request for executive session. 629 00:43:38,556 --> 00:43:42,645 Okay, with that, we've come to the end of this agenda. This meeting is adjourned.