CENTRAL CITY - On a snowy Tuesday evening, May 6, 2025, Central City Mayor Jeremy Fey called the City Council meeting to order following a work session packed with updates on water management, sidewalk and building maintenance, and growing traffic concerns.

All council members were present, including Mayor Jeremy Fey, Mayor Pro-Tem Charles (Chuck) Spencer, and council members Marcia Enloe, Zane Pisek, and Todd Williams (via Zoom). 

Water system 

Council and staff discussed ongoing efforts to replace aging water meters, some of which haven’t been read in years. Three residential meters were recently changed out, and the City plans to replace more this summer, including commercial meters. 

Staff cited a 30-35% monthly water loss, likely due to outdated equipment, and announced plans for a deeper dive into treatment plant operations at a future session.

The finance director was tasked with developing standardized payment plans for residents needing water meter financing. Council also discussed unexpected maintenance expenses, including a $1,500 solar venting issue, and stressed the need to clear a backlog of annual reports.

Trailer traffic, signage, and parking enforcement

With increased OHV trailer traffic, the City is evaluating traffic-calming measures like a raised crosswalk on Eureka Street. Temporary signage will be placed while staff consult the County on long-term traffic flow improvements. 

Parking enforcement remains a challenge, particularly on Eureka, where trailers are creating safety issues on narrow roads.

Staff affirmed the County’s authority to enforce parking regulations on its rights-of-way and proposed a future partnership with the Forest Service for potential parking expansion.

Sidewalk hazards 

Council members discussed deteriorating sidewalks, especially on Eureka Street, where missing curbs and inconsistent repairs have created safety risks. 

One speaker described a recent fall caused by a broken brick. Staff will identify hazardous areas and notify property owners of their repair responsibilities. A citywide cleanup is scheduled for May 29.

Plans are also in motion to establish a consistent sidewalk aesthetic using gray concrete. The group committed to beginning with high-traffic areas near City buildings, and later addressing infrastructure on Eureka.

Historic building upkeep 

The Council discussed how crumbling masonry and broken windows on historic buildings pose safety risks and compliance issues. They also agreed to uphold the City code and pursue court involvement if necessary. The City will work with the Downtown Development Authority and Business Improvement District to promote voluntary compliance without punitive measures.

Noise and enforcement

Concerns about traffic noise from diesel-powered trailers were acknowledged, and a raised crosswalk was suggested as one possible solution. Other residents voiced frustration over the lack of ticketing for parking violations. City staff encouraged continued engagement with the Forest Service and law enforcement to ensure quicker response times and better communication.

Council meeting actions

During the regular session, the council unanimously approved the consent agenda, which included permits for three upcoming events: the Yellow Rose Ball (June 21), Stills in the Hills (June 28), and Madam Lou Bunch Day (June 14), along with temporary street closures for each.

The council also passed several resolutions:

• Resolution 25-13: Opposing the introduction of iGaming in Colorado. “As you may recall, we recently became members and joined the National Association against iGaming,” said City Manager Daniel Miera. “In conversations with some of the other host gaming cities, there has been discussion and now a joint resolution that has been put together here.”

• Resolution 25-14: Approving a $31,660 task order with IMEG Consultants Corp. for GIS development related to the Water Master Plan.

• Resolution 25-15: Authorizing a $12,000 land survey to verify Central City’s western boundary monuments.

• Resolution 25-16: Establishing expedited review policies for affordable housing projects. This ties into Central's previous Prop 123 commitment to build 18 units by 2026. Staff noted the new policy could unlock an additional $50,000 in state funding.

Staff and community updates

A new full-time firefighter was hired and will be introduced at the next meeting. Staff shared progress on the Pocket Park project, intended as a welcoming space for all community members.

Council acknowledged Mother’s Day and recognized council members Zane Plsek and Todd Williams as candidates for the Sanitation District board.

The next Council meeting is scheduled for May 20, 2025, at 141 Nevada Street, Central City, Colorado. It will be held in person at City Hall and online, as available, at centralcity.colorado.gov/meetings.