The Central City Council meeting was called to order by Mayor Jeremy Fey on May 3, 2022, at 7:06 p.m. In attendance were Mayor Jeremy Fey, Mayor Pro Tem Judy Laratta, Alderman Jeff Aiken, Alderman Kara Tinucci, and Alderman Jill Story.

Public Forum: Joe Behm of the Business Improvement District (BID) inquired if there would be a public hearing with the Liquor Licensing Board. He was assured a public hearing would be held. Betty Mahaffey urged the Council to vote in favor of the Ordinances concerning the Young Ranch Resource Annexation. She stressed a rock quarry would bring new jobs to the area.

Liquor Licensing Authority: Whispering Woods LLC requested a liquor license at 605 Lake Gulch Road. Charles Spencer owns the KOA Campground and has had requests from campers over the years to add a liquor store to their other amenities. He collected 41 signatures from residents in favor of the new business and he felt this would not intrude on liquor stores in Central City.

A new business was created to accommodate the regulations that a liquor store cannot be at a pre existing business. Joe Behm asked for clarification if a new business would constitute an unfair tax advantage as they would not be required to contribute to the BID. City Attorney Marcus McAskin found no dispute and the Council voted unanimously in favor of issuing a liquor license.

Ordinance No. 22-02 amends the City Municipal Code regarding smoking regulations. The first reading of the Ordinance was on April 29, 2022. The purpose for the Ordinance is to update and align the Municipal Code with the State. The Ordinance was approved unanimously by Council.

Ordinance No. 22-03 annexing certain property of the City known as Youth Ranch Resource was approved on its first reading. The second reading will be on May 17, 2022.

Ordinance No. 22-04 establishes initial zoning for the property known as Youth Ranch Resource and amends the official zoning map that was approved on its first reading. The second reading will be on May 17, 2022.

Ordinance No. 22-05 approves the Annexation and Hauling Agreement with Youth Ranch Resource. Council approved the Ordinance unanimously.

Resolution No. 22-14 approves the Historic Rock Wall Restoration Reimbursement Grant Program for 2022. The program will pay for 50% of historic rock wall restorations to residents, with a $5000 limit. The Resolution was approved by Council unanimously.

Resolution 22-15 is a request for a closure of Main Street on August 13, 2022 for Madame Lou Bunch Day from 8 a.m. to 6 p.m. All street closures must be approved by City Council prior to the event. The Resolution was approved by Council unanimously.

Resolution No. 22-16 is a request to pay for services with Willdan Financial Services in the amount of $28,000 for an Impact Study. The last study was done in 2019. New development fees are based on the study. The Resolution was approved by Council unanimously.

Staff Updates: City Manager Daniel Miera reported he participated in a group that addressed officials at the State Department concerning the April 19 Bill that would reallocate gaming tax funds. Miera requested a pause on the Bill for further study.

The tentative date for the Central City Opera picnic is set for Monday, June 27. Xcel Energy is going to replace power poles in some parts of the City. Mayor Pro Tem Laratta inquired if there are any incentives for residents to put in artificial lawns. Water Director Jack Beard answered there are not many irrigated lawns in Central City, however, the Colorado Rural Water Association is lobbying for initiatives.

Council Comments: Mayor Pro Tem Laratta appreciated the upkeep on Central City Parkway and is grateful for the beautiful billboards. Alderman Aiken told Daniel Miera he did a good job in not allowing the State to take money away from the City. Alderman Story congratulated Charles Spencer on his new liquor license and stated she is excited about the upcoming Lou Bunch Days.

Mayor Fey announced the 75th juried Art Show with the Gilpin County Arts Association is June 11, 2022.A dinner will accompany the celebration on June 10.

Public Forum: Joe Behm requested Youth Ranch Resource to be included in the Commercial Property Petition request. He also suggested the City look into putting directional signs for mountain bikers to find the property where they can ride.

The Council moved to go into Executive Session at 8:46 p.m. The next meeting will be held on May 17, 2022, at City Hall, 141 Nevada Street, Central City, or online. Information can be found on the City web site centralcity.colorado.gov/meetings.