CENTRAL CITY — Eight historic homes in Central City may soon be coming down to make room for the new G3 casino resort, despite concerns about losing another piece of the city's history.

The Central City Council approved the demolition plans during its regular meeting on Tuesday, November 3, 2026, following a public hearing.

Before the meeting, council members held a budget work session, where much of the discussion centered around a $250,000 request from Central City Opera.

The money would help fund a heating system in the historic Opera House, allowing it to stay open during the winter months. The total project is estimated at $500,000, with the opera having already secured half that amount through private funding.

But the request is part of a much larger proposal. The opera is asking the city for $250,000 a year over ten years, totaling $2.5 million.

Alderman Zane Plsek wasn't quite sold on the idea, saying the request is for "a lot of money."

"I don't want to, and I will not encumber future Councils with this request," he said.

He also questioned whether the opera would return to speak with council about the project and how the money would be spent.

City Manager Daniel Miera explained that putting the money in the budget doesn't mean the council has to spend it. It just sets it aside if they decide to move forward. Any future funding would still have to be approved.

Miera suggested working out a memorandum of understanding with the opera.

Mayor Jeremy Fey was more enthusiastic. He compared the proposal to the Belvidere restoration project, pointing out that the opera already has an operator and a plan for bringing people into the building.

He also suggested some kind of forgivable loan arrangement to protect the City's investment if the Opera House isn't used as promised.

Still, council members wondered whether the money might be better spent on the City's water needs or parking for the casinos.

Parking was a particular concern for Plsek, who questioned how a year-round venue would compete with theaters in Denver and whether there would be enough parking for visitors.

Alderwoman Kathy Walker said she was eager to see a community component included in the project, with the possibility of using the Opera House for local events.

State legislators sent letters supporting the proposal.

In the end, council agreed to leave the $250,000 in the proposed budget while continuing discussions with the opera. No money was formally committed.

The council also discussed keeping $75,000 available for nonprofit grants, with an application process still to be worked out.

Other budget items included $95,000 for a police vehicle, a $563,000 USDA grant for the new fire station, $1 million for roadway improvements, and $1.25 million for property transactions.

The City is also considering water treatment improvements, reservoir work, and a possible switch from gaseous to liquid chlorine.

The hauling fee budget was adjusted to account for an estimated 75,000 additional tons of material being transported in 2027. The City is reviewing its hauling agreements and fees collected for use of the Central City Parkway.

The budget public hearing is scheduled for November 17.

Historic preservation versus development

During the regular council meeting, the proposed G3 casino resort took center stage.

Resolution 26-30 involved the demolition of historic structures within the Gregory Gulch Gaming Resort development.

Mayor Fey recused himself from the discussion, leaving Walker to preside over the hearing since Mayor Pro Tem Chuck Spencer attended remotely.

Shawn Connelly, who previously owned the house at 341 Gregory Street, spoke during public comment and asked council to reconsider demolishing that building.

The house was built in 1886 and was reportedly the first home in Central City to have electricity. Connelly said it remains in good condition and has served as a home, bed and breakfast, and office over the years.

"Along Gregory Street, some buildings have reached the point of being immediate safety hazards. Those conditions must be addressed, but not every building on that street is in that category.

"The house at 341 Gregory Street is an example. It is in sound condition. It is currently being used as an office.

"This house has a distinctive historic value. It was built in 1886. It was the first house to be electrified in Central City. It is a living piece of Central City's history," he said.

Community Development Director Jeff Noffsinger explained that the developer had looked into moving the homes, but the costs, steep terrain, and lack of suitable relocation sites made it difficult.

The Historic Preservation Commission had already approved the demolition request by a 3-2 vote. Connelly cast one of the dissenting votes as commissioner on the HPC.

Architect Alexsandr Sheykhet presented plans for preserving portions of the historic structures.

The project would include a public park, a historic lane with impressions of old building facades, and a Freemasons Plaza made with stone salvaged from the old power plant ruins.

Historic plaques would be relocated, and some of the old stonework, doors, and windows could be reused. The developer may even donate an old outhouse to the museum.

The developer also said demolition wouldn't begin until spring at the earliest, and they are still looking for other possibilities.

Gilpin County Commissioner and Central City resident Jeff Aiken, speaking as a private citizen, expressed concern about losing the buildings and what years of construction could mean for nearby businesses.

"I'm sorry to see a lot of these buildings going away," he said.

Plsek, however, complimented the developer for listening to the public and making changes along the way.

Council approved Resolution 26-30 unanimously, with all four participating members voting in favor. 

Property trade and other business

Council unanimously approved the Central City Business Improvement District's 2027 budget.

Ordinance 26-19, involving a property exchange with Young Ranch LLC, also passed unanimously on first reading.

The proposed exchange involves land along the Central City Parkway, including portions of the Justice Lode, Pine Tree Lode, and Aunt Jennie Lode. The overall transaction includes approximately 6.81 acres of City property and 2.42 acres owned by Young Ranch.

The City would receive a net payment of $52,827.20. A second ordinance dealing with additional right-of-way parcels is expected later.

The second reading and public hearing were set for November 17.

Council also discussed Governor Jared Polis' proposed gaming tax changes, which could affect future casino development in Central City.

Members agreed they should take a stand against the proposal and discussed reaching out to Black Hawk, Gilpin County, and state legislators. A resolution may be brought back at the next meeting.

The consent agenda, including bills through October 24 and minutes from October 20, passed unanimously.

Staff updates included progress on the new fire station, the comprehensive plan, Belvidere roof repairs, downtown facade improvements, Parkway lighting, and repairs to the Public Works sand shed.

Council members also mentioned the upcoming Taste of Gilpin fundraiser and Belvidere wreath sales.

The council later voted to enter executive session to discuss potential property acquisitions near Nevada Street and Nevadaville Road.

The next regular Central City Council meeting will be Tuesday, November 17, at 6 p.m.