A work session for the Central City Council began at 6:20 p.m. on May 7. The meeting began with a discussion regarding Main Street design, exploring whether to close Main Street to automobile traffic. The stakeholders agreed to put a solid action plan in place. One possibility is to offer a trial run on weekends to include events that involve the use of restaurant seating, alcohol sales, and street activities. The casinos noted that there is decreased revenue when the street is closed for parking.

The City will continue to explore the issue and work with Main Street Central City and the Downtown Development Authority (DDA) to come up with a plan.

The regular council meeting was called to order at 7:09 p.m. by Mayor Jeremy Fey. In attendance were Mayor Pro-Tem Kara Tinucci, Alderman Marcia Enloe, and Alderman Todd Williams. In addition, City Manager Daniel Miera and City Attorney Marcus McAskin were present. Alderman Jeff Aiken was absent.

Public Forum: Zane Plsek questioned the use of lobbyists for Division of Gaming proceedings and the cost that the City of Central is paying for these lobbyists. He commented that this could backfire when approval is sought for new casino licenses with the Gaming Commission. He is looking for transparency with the City government and their actions.

Deb Wray agreed, and stated that she didn’t think the City should get involved with the Gaming Commission, and that hiring lobbyists should be left up to the Business Improvement District.

Eric Langan, owner of RCI Hospitality Holdings, is trying to add more casinos to Central City. He expressed that a good lobbyist is needed in order to progress, because the Gaming Commission is not forthcoming. Langan stated that some casinos have waited three years for the Gaming Commission to address their application.

Liquor License Authority: a new retail gaming license for Amstel Investment Group, LLC, dba Rocky Mountain Casino at 110 Lawrence Street. A public hearing was held, where Brian Turner, a consultant for the business, made a presentation to Council. Turner explained that alcohol is common and standard in casinos and would fit with the planned casino coming to the City. The license was approved unanimously.

Staff Updates: Miera informed Council that an application was sent for a new fire station along with letters of support. There was a quick deadline for the application and Miera thanked Fire Chief Allen and staff for their work in finishing the application in a timely manner.

Public Comment: Zane Plsek commented on the outstanding work the Public Works Department did plowing the streets and roads during the season’s snow storms. Eric Langan announced the Bombshells Food Truck will be set up on Main Street by Thursday, May 7, and a variety of food will be offered.

A representative from the Central City Opera announced that a presentation preview performance will be held at the Opera House on Saturday, May 12, at 3 p.m., followed by a reception at the Gilpin Art Gallery across the street. The event is free to the public.

Council Comments: Williams addressed the discussion regarding the use of lobbyists for the Gaming Commission. He felt their job as Council members was to uphold Central City and they should have a responsibility to question authorities. Fey agreed, saying that issues with regulatory entities should come to light. The City should plan economic development with their partners, and a small expenditure is both warranted and the right step to pursue action.

The economy of Central City depends on the gaming revenue it receives, he added. Fey also took offense at being accused of not being transparent. He commented, “Ask anyone, I am an open book, and you can call me anytime to discuss anything you like.”

The Council adjourned the meeting at 7:42 p.m. and went into Executive Session.

The next meeting will be held on Tuesday, May 21, 2024, at 7 p.m. at 141 Nevada Street, Central City, or online at centralcity.colorado.gov/meetings.