CENTRAL CITY – The Central City Council convened for a work session at 6 p.m. on Tuesday, February 4, 2025, to discuss the relocation of the Visitor Center to the Belvidere Theater. They also addressed ongoing concerns about housing needs within the area.

The meeting, held at City Hall at 141 Nevada Street, drew a mix of City officials and local residents.

City Manager Daniel Miera provided an update on the progress of Phase 1 of the Belvidere Theater's renovation. The project has combined two separate buildings – the Shoofly building and the main theater – into one property.

Miera explained that the lower level of the building is slated to become the new Visitor Center, offering improved accessibility compared to its present location. The Visitor Center currently operates within a historic two-story building at 103 Eureka Street, near the three-way intersection of Main, Eureka, and Lawrence Streets.

The first floor houses the Visitor Center, while the second floor, which contains the only restroom, has been used for storage and a business incubator program. The lack of accessible restroom facilities and the stairs leading to the entrance have posed challenges for some visitors.

Miera said that mobility improvements, including a ramp and a main-floor restroom, would enhance the experience for visitors with accessibility challenges. The Belvidere Theater, located at 139 Nevada Street near the city entrance and adjacent to a public parking lot, offers these improvements.

The Belvidere Theater is owned by the City but is under a long-term lease with the Belvidere Foundation, which is responsible for its renovation. 

The Shoofly section of the theater is nearing completion, and a certificate of occupancy is expected soon. Community Development Director Jeff Noffsinger informed the Council that the certificate could be issued within the week, pending final cosmetic adjustments.

Alderman Chuck Spencer asked when the nearby pocket park would be restored, to which Miera responded that the construction company would handle its reassembly.

The Council agreed to proceed with relocating the Visitor Center to the Belvidere.

The discussion then turned to the future of 103 Eureka Street, a City-owned property that will be vacated once the Visitor Center moves. 

Miera noted that the second floor of the building is already equipped to accommodate residential use, with a shower, bathroom, and kitchenette. He proposed repurposing the property as employee housing, a move that could help alleviate local workforce housing shortages.

Rental income from the property could also offset building operating expenses, including utilities. The Council favored a strategy of “soft advertising” the property to local residents and businesses to attract a suitable tenant. 

Alderman Todd Williams stressed the importance of not leaving the building vacant for long.

Williams asked whether the City would become a tenant under the current lease arrangement with the Belvidere Foundation. Miera confirmed that the City would maintain a lease agreement to use the space.

The discussion shifted to broader housing issues. Miera discussed the need for employee housing, referencing several job candidates who cited difficulties finding housing in the area. He mentioned that properties like 331 Gregory Street could play a role in addressing this challenge.

However, Plsek added that many Central City residents are employed by Black Hawk’s casinos.

The Council also reflected on the housing needs assessment open house held on January 28. Attendance was sparse, with few residents present beyond County officials and local reporters.  Plsek quipped that the meeting should have been titled, “If we build it, they will come,” critiquing its failure to address critical questions about workforce housing and infrastructure.

The work session concluded with Council members agreeing on the importance of balancing housing, infrastructure, and economic development priorities.

The regular council meeting was scheduled to follow at 7 p.m.