CENTRAL CITY – The Central City Council convened its regular meeting on February 18, 2025, at City Hall, with Mayor Jeremy Fey presiding. 

In attendance were council members Todd Williams, Chuck Spencer, Marcia Enloe, and Zane Plsek, along with City Manager Daniel Miera. 

Seat tax?

One of the primary topics of discussion was the proposal for a seat tax on ticketed events in Central City. Scott Finlay, president and CEO of Central City Opera, voiced concerns that the tax would disproportionately impact his organization. 

He pointed out that, while cities like Denver, Aurora, and Boulder implement seat taxes, the generated revenue is typically designated for facility maintenance and cultural investments rather than general city operations.

Finlay proposed an alternative: a cultural tourism fee on lodging, gaming, and hospitality. According to estimates, a seat tax could generate between $30,000 and $80,000 annually, whereas a tourism fee could yield significantly higher revenue, potentially between $44,000 and $780,000 per year. 

He said the opera company plays a crucial role in the community’s cultural and economic landscape, and he urged the Council to consider a more balanced approach.

Council members acknowledged Finlay’s concerns and indicated that the issue would be revisited at the March 4 meeting, when staff and legal representatives will present options for an entertainment admission fee and clarify the difference between a fee and a tax.

Snow removal

The meeting also addressed ongoing concerns about snow removal in Central City. Officials reported on a joint meeting held earlier in the day with stakeholders to devise an action plan for maintaining both streets and sidewalks during winter weather. Residents were reminded to clear sidewalks promptly after each snowfall to prevent hazardous conditions.

Council members noted that while discussions about potential changes to Main Street’s configuration—such as making it pedestrian-only—were tabled for now, they are committed to a long-term comprehensive plan for the city’s infrastructure.

Gold Mountain fire

A recent fire in Building 1 of Gold Mountain Village was also a topic of discussion, with Council members acknowledging the swift response from local first responders, including Central City Fire, Gilpin County Sheriff’s Office, Clear Creek Fire, Black Hawk Police, Black Hawk Fire, and Gilpin Ambulance Authority.

Plsek expressed gratitude for the emergency personnel who contained the fire and stressed the potential danger had the fire occurred during the region’s recent windstorms. Additionally, the Council expressed concern for the well-being of the victim’s brothers, Tom and Dan, who were affected by the fire and, with assistance from local organizations, have since been relocated to a new apartment.

Martin Marietta

James, a representative from Martin Marietta, introduced himself and provided an update on the company’s acquisition of Walstrum Quarry. 

The company, which has operations spanning from Fort Collins to Colorado Springs, has been working to improve traffic flow by adding an additional scale at the entrance to reduce congestion. 

Martin Marietta has also continued community support efforts, including participation in local events like burro races and Rotary Club activities.

CC Opera and the community

Fey closed the meeting by discussing the importance of community engagement with the Central City Opera. He noted that many residents have never attended a performance and suggested that the opera company explore better outreach opportunities, particularly for residents of Gold Mountain Village who may not be aware of discounted or accessible options.

The Council will revisit the seat tax proposal at its next meeting on March 4, where further details on potential revenue structures will be presented. Community members are encouraged to attend and voice their opinions on this and other matters.

The meeting concluded with a note of optimism from Fey, who stated, “When there’s not a lot on the agenda, it means things are good.”