CENTRAL CITY – The Central City Council met on Tuesday, December 3, 2024, for its final session of the year. Held at City Hall and streamed online, the meeting included unanimous passage of resolutions, financial reviews, and heartfelt farewells to Mayor Pro Tem Kara Tinucci and Alderman Jeff Aiken.

Tinucci and Aiken concluded their service to the City, with their terms officially ending on December 31, 2024. Tinucci, who served for four years, and Aiken, who has been on the council for nine years, were commended for their contributions to the community. Aiken will continue in public service as a Gilpin County Commissioner, while Tinucci’s dedication to the council was recognized by her colleagues and community members. 

One of the most significant decisions during the meeting was the unanimous approval of Resolution 24-37, which authorizes the Gregory Gulch Urban Renewal Plan. The resolution identifies blight in the area and grants the City the authority to use eminent domain as a redevelopment tool. 

However, this decision was met with objections from the City of Black Hawk, whose attorney argued against the inclusion of certain properties intended for regional trail systems. 

Council members defended the plan, citing the need for redevelopment to support local infrastructure and economic growth. The condition survey for the area met eight of the eleven criteria that classify properties as blighted, supporting the council's decision.

The meeting also included a review and approval of the 2025 Budget. The budget maintains a balance between expenditures and revenues, with gaming revenues remaining a significant source of income. 

Device counts have dropped by 20% since pre-pandemic levels, which has impacted revenue. Transportation fees have increased by 16%, helping to offset some of the decline. Other financial actions included a supplemental appropriation to the hauling fee fund, the allocation of $250,000 to the Belvidere Foundation for theatre improvements, and continued investments in emergency services and infrastructure.

Several community organizations presented annual reports during the meeting. The Gilpin Historical Society reported a sharp decrease in tour numbers compared to pre-2020 levels, leading to the difficult decision to sell the Coeur d'Alene mineshaft house. 

The Gilpin Arts Association, which has supported artists for 77 years, shared its efforts to preserve artistic traditions and its concerns about the need for more cultural attractions in the area. 

The Historic Preservation Commission and the Planning Commission also presented updates, including the approval of $100,000 for historic home restorations and the appointment of new members to both commissions.

Shawn Connelly and James Everitt were appointed to the Historic Preservation Commission, with Jenny Earnest as alternate. Barbara Thielemann and Dena Hunter were appointed to the Planning Commission, with Chris Shirley as alternate.

As Central City prepares for 2025, the council expressed a commitment to revitalization and collaboration. Aiken’s transition to County Commissioner presents opportunities for new partnerships, while the council looks to address ongoing challenges like gaming revenue declines and development needs.

The next council meeting is scheduled for January 7, 2025, when new members Zane Plsek and Chuck Spencer will take their oaths of office.