Mindy Leary, Central City. On Tuesday, March 2, 2021, the Central City Council held a regular meeting online only at 7:00 p.m . In attendance were the Mayor Jeremy Fey, Mayor Pro-tem Judy Laratta, and council members, Jeff Aiken, Jackie Johnson and Kara Tunicci. There was a minor adjustment to the agenda  deleting item 1 as it would not be discussed, as pointed out by City Attorney Mark McAskin. Topics included appointments to Central City Main Street Commission and a discussion on jail population with Sheriff Armstrong.

The first action item was the appointment of Ron Engels with Shirley Voorhies as alternate to the Main Street Central City Commission. Alderman Laratta made a motion and all were in favor.

Staff updates included a discussion of strategic planning and determining a schedule for in-person meetings now that they can take place.

Next was a discussion with Sheriff Kevin Armstrong on Covid protocols in jails. Any misdemeanor or minor felony charges will be issued a summons instead of being taken to jail to promote jail depopulation. Armstrong stressed the need for vaccinations. 

“If people are still interested in getting the vaccination they can call 303-515-3432 to register,” said Armstrong.

Next was a short discussion on varying speed limits in Central City. 

Council comments included a comment by Alderman Laratta about street sweeping. 

Public forum/audience participation included a comment about the casinos welcoming the proposal made in the work session about use tax but also expressed concerns.

Another comment mentioned “The Giving Tree,” and that the Council has been doing a great job.

Meeting adjourned at 7:52 p.m. so that the council could go into Executive Session.  

(Originally published in the March 11, 2021, edition of The Mountain-Ear.)