Candidates share common goals
Barbara Hardt, managing editor of The Mountain-Ear, leads the Central City Council candidate forum at the Central City Elks Lodge, as candidates (from the left) Chuck Spencer, Dennis Denson, and Zane Plsek discuss their visions for the future of the city.
CENTRAL CITY - On Wednesday, October 2, 2024, The Mountain-Ear hosted a lively candidate forum at the Central City Elks Lodge #557 on Main Street, bringing together the three candidates running for two open seats on Central City Council.
The event had a friendly atmosphere that felt more like a community gathering than a political showdown. With Alderman Jeff Aiken reaching his term limit and the Mayor Pro-tem Kara Tinucci stepping down, the race isn’t about who wins but who will be the unlucky candidate left out.
The three candidates – Zane Plsek, Chuck Spencer, and Dennis Denson – proved they aren’t just focused on their campaigns but are genuinely invested in the future of Central City. In fact, the evening was marked by how much they agreed with each other, leading Chuck Spencer to jokingly remark, “We’re all pretty much on the same page.”
Zane Plsek kicked off by sharing a bit of his story, having retired in July 2023 and quickly jumping headfirst into community involvement. "I love this place. It's our forever home,” he said proudly.
Not one to sit still, Plsek has attended every city and county meeting he could find – City Council, Planning Commission, URA, DDA – you name it, he’s been there.
Plsek’s platform revolves around improving life for residents and ensuring businesses thrive. He’s particularly focused on responsible development, making sure that Main Street stays a family-friendly area. "No sexually-oriented businesses on Main Street,” he declared, drawing a line between historical charm and unwanted businesses.
Plsek also supports promoting Central City’s history as a tourist draw, but only if it’s paired with much-needed infrastructure upgrades. “The sidewalks need work,” he added, a sentiment shared by many.
One unique idea Plsek brought to the table was holding weekend open forums, where residents can directly talk to their council members. “No handshake deals behind closed doors,” he said, adding that more transparency would likely help calm down the rumor mill that sometimes swirls around small towns like Central City.
Chuck Spencer, the owner of the Denver West/Central City KOA Holiday campground, brought his business acumen to the forum, offering a practical perspective on how to grow Central City, making it clear that he values local input over outside opinions.
Having lived here for over 15 years, Spencer is a firm believer that the community should drive decisions. He’s no stranger to challenges either; running a business has taught him a thing or two about working within a budget while expanding, having added new sites to his campground.
Spencer touched on everything from sidewalks (they need improvement) to the challenge of attracting new businesses like grocery stores and banks to Central City. “We don’t have the population to support those kinds of businesses,” he explained, adding that growth is key to solving that problem.
He even brought up the 60-foot height limit on new buildings, suggesting it might need to be adjusted to attract more development – but not too much development. “I’m not saying we need an Ameristar here,” he laughed, referencing the towering hotel in Black Hawk.
Spencer, who sits on the DDA board, also mentioned that they have $70,000 to spend on lighting improvements, although he doesn’t think that will stretch very far. He’s practical, solution-oriented, and ready to engage with the city’s issues head-on.
Dennis Denson, the most recent arrival in Central City, has lived in the area for about two years. He’s no stranger to mountain life, though, having previously lived in Coal Creek Canyon and Golden. “I love small towns, especially this one – the history, the location, the beauty, and the people,” he said, grinning.
Denson’s outdoor enthusiasm shone through as he spoke of his love for hiking, rafting, and exploring. “I’m about 50/50 on the snow, though,” he joked.
Denson brings a down-to-earth approach, stating that he’s here to listen and learn. He’s had conversations with many locals and believes in creating more opportunities for them to work locally rather than commuting. His background in construction has given him a deep appreciation for the town’s historic buildings, and he stressed the importance of maintaining them.
Like his fellow candidates, Denson is committed to transparency and collaboration. He’s eager to get more people involved in local government and stressed that every resident should have their say in the future of the city.
One of the major topics of the evening was the issue of growth and preservation. Spencer, Plsek, and Denson all agreed that Central City needs responsible growth, but not at the expense of its unique character.
Spencer pointed out that taxes from businesses can help fund much-needed improvements. Denson and Plsek both stressed the importance of preserving Central City’s historic charm while fostering growth.
Affordable housing came up, too, with all candidates recognizing it as a tough issue.
“It’s a national crisis,” Denson said, while Plsek highlighted the challenges residents face with rising rent and insurance costs.
Spencer, ever the pragmatist, pointed out that while new affordable housing units are slated for construction, the demand doesn’t seem to be there right now and the costs of construction are too high for developers.
When it came to the controversial issue of off-highway vehicles (OHVs), all three candidates were on the same page again – against it.
“No,” Spencer said simply, while Plsek and Denson echoed concerns about safety and the lack of economic benefit.
The forum wrapped up with some great audience questions, including a thoughtful inquiry from Commissioner Sandy Hollingsworth about how the city might collaborate better with Gilpin County.
Plsek humorously vowed to be an active participant, “You have my word – you may come to regret that.” Denson mirrored Plsek’s commitment, and Spencer spoke of the importance of engaging fully with county officials.
Commissioner candidate Corey Marshall asked what to do with the historic Belvidere Theatre. Spencer suggested a souvenir shop and restaurant could do well, while Plsek imagined it as a museum entryway with a possible dinner theater. Denson agreed with the need to attract more people to town through the Belvidere’s renovation.
In the end, the candidates parted with handshakes and friendly banter, proving that even in the midst of an election, Central City’s future leaders can share a common vision for growth, preservation, and making sure everyone has a voice. It’s clear that, no matter who wins, Central City is in good hands.
