CENTRAL CITY - The June 3 Central City Council meeting touched on everything from engineering contracts to summer festivities, all with a tone of optimism and good humor.

Mayor Jeremy Fey called the meeting to order just after 6 p.m., with all council members present except for Mayor Pro-Tem Chuck Spencer, who was excused to care for his mother in Florida.

New plans move forward

Two major resolutions were passed unanimously. The first, Resolution 25-22, approved a contract not to exceed $109,225 with Alan Plummer and Associates, Inc. for engineering services related to the City’s Water Master Plan Design. 

The City received five proposals, and Plummer was top ranked by City staff. Thanks to a $48,243.75 grant secured by Planning Director Jeff Noffsinger, the town will save significantly on the project. The plan is expected to be completed within 12 months.

The second, Resolution 25-23, authorizes the City Manager to finalize a service agreement with Obermeier Shaykhet for the City’s Comprehensive Plan update. The total cost of the contract is $149,840, though Central's direct contribution will be just $12,863.33 thanks to a $120,000 state grant and cost-sharing between the DDA, BID, and bondholder HWC. The project will take approximately 48 weeks.

Historic Preservation appointment and updates

Chelby Shofner, a four-and-a-half-year resident known for her Christmas decorations and work at Beau Jo’s, was unanimously appointed to the Historic Preservation Commission. Shofner shared her passion for Central City’s history, saying she wants to help the town grow while preserving its unique character.

Council also ratified two Historic Preservation Commission (HPC) cases: HPC 25-06 for a new residential structure at 347 Eureka and HPC 25-02 for 320 Lawrence.

Pocket park plans, opioid funds, and community safety

The City is moving forward with upgrades to the pocket park next to City Hall, funded in part by a $5,000 mini-grant. Staff said patio lights, furniture, and landscaping will be installed and must be completed by the end of June.

City Manager Daniel Miera reported that the City has received five payments totaling $598.75 from the statewide opioid settlement, with funds distributed according to the Memorandum of Agreement.

Division Chief Sean Wheeler from the Gilpin County Sheriff’s Office introduced Steven Mingura, the new Director of the Office of Emergency Management. Mingura expressed enthusiasm about supporting Central’s public safety and community resilience efforts, and the Council encouraged him to be involved in ongoing planning efforts.

Public works and pedestrian safety

Engineering discussions are underway for pedestrian safety improvements on Eureka Street, including raised crosswalks, stop signs, and striping. Staff said they are working with engineers on a draft plan that will be presented with cost options for Council’s consideration.

Community comments and Council reflections

Eric Langan expressed appreciation to Public Works for their quick work replacing bricks and fixing trip hazards on Main Street. 

Barbara Thielemann announced that Main Street Central City achieved accredited status with Main Street America as of May 30, a step up from affiliate status. She also shared upcoming event details:

• Madam Lou Bunch Day will take place on June 14 from 12-5 p.m., followed by a dance with music by Robbie Wicks at Monte Lobo Tavern (131 Main Street) from 7-10 p.m., dedicated to Jimmy Lewis.

• The Shoofly portion of the Belvidere and a new visitor kiosk will be dedicated at a ceremony on June 17 from 5-7 p.m. at the pocket park.

Councilmember Zane Plsek gave a lighthearted update, noting he received a mysterious “Founding Member” card from Casa Bonita in the mail, complete with a magnetic strip and zero explanation. 

“I have no idea what it does, but I’m keeping it,” he joked, adding that his son is a big South Park fan.

Final thoughts

The meeting closed with a round of appreciation for City staff and volunteers who helped with clean-up efforts, especially those from Maverick Gaming. Fey highlighted the momentum building across town with new plans, more foot traffic, and a busy summer ahead.

The next Central City Council meeting is scheduled for June 17, 2025, and will be held in person at 141 Nevada Street with online access available at centralcity.colorado.gov/meetings.