BLACK HAWK – If there’s one thing that can briefly derail the orderly proceedings of a city council meeting, it’s a surprise delivery. And that’s exactly how the Black Hawk City Council found itself—off to an unusual yet entertaining start on February 26, 2025. 

A mysterious black-cloaked tripod sat in the room, and refreshments were laid out. Was it a grand unveiling? A retirement party? A new city mascot? A time capsule from the mining days?

Turns out the star of the evening was Bruce Boynton, the night’s honorary bell ringer, and the de-cloaked tripod revealed the new logo for The Copper Kitchen Pizzeria. 

You may have noticed the shiny new construction in Gregory Plaza's walkable HARD (History Appreciation Recreation Destination) District.

The main agenda item and reason for the party was the approval of a lease for Pick Axe Pizza, an Idaho Springs staple ready to bring its renowned pies to 307 Gregory Street in Black Hawk. 

Owner Bruce Boynton, who started the business in 2015, shared his excitement about expanding. 

“This location is going to be a little more ‘bougie’ than our Idaho Springs spot,” he admitted with a grin, referencing plans for a slightly more refined atmosphere while keeping the same beloved menu: pizzas, pastas, wings, and a rotating dessert menu including carrot cake and cheesecakes.

Alderman Paul Bennett quipped, “We've been waiting on you for ten years!” drawing laughs from the room. The council voted unanimously in favor of the lease, paving the way for Pick Axe Pizza’s new Copper Kitchen location, set to open in August/September.

In another key move, the Council approved updates to Black Hawk’s Residential Design Guidelines, ensuring historic homes retain their charm while meeting modern building standards. 

The new guidelines will help homeowners and developers maintain the city’s architectural heritage while adapting to current needs. Alderman Hal Midcap emphasized the importance of materials like high wind-resistant, fire-safe shingles, a measure the Council fully supported.

The Council also approved a contract for the restoration of 150 Chase Street, a project that is coming in at about a 20% higher cost than previous similar efforts due to its complexity. 

The plan includes moving the house five feet to the side and raising the roof to bring the bedrooms up to code. The price tag? A not-to-exceed amount of $172,269. Despite the cost, all members agreed the project was necessary for preserving Black Hawk’s unique character.

Black Hawk secured another round of funding under the FTA Section 5311 Operating Grant, ensuring continued service of the Black Hawk and Central City Tramway. The $119,759 grant requires a 50% match but helps offset costs for the city’s vital transportation link.

Before wrapping up, City Manager Stephen Cole gave a sneak peek into next month’s meeting, when Monarch Casino’s corporate VP, Jason Gumer, is set to discuss his efforts opposing internet gambling. With online betting becoming an increasingly hot topic, his appearance promises to spark some lively debate.

With business concluded and the smell of future pizza metaphorically in the air, the Council adjourned at 3:50 p.m.

The next Black Hawk City Council meeting is scheduled for March 12, 2025, and can be attended in person at 211 Church Street.