CENTRAL CITY – As 2024 draws to a close, Central City reflects on a year of debates, historic milestones, and community growth. From discussions on senior housing and sexually oriented businesses (SOBs) to significant steps in restoring the historic Belvidere Theatre, the year has been interesting.

In January, the Central City Council made several key annual appointments. Kara Tinucci was reappointed as Mayor Pro-tem, and the Weekly Register-Call was retained as the official newspaper of record. 

Councilmember Todd Williams continued as the Denver Regional Council of Governments representative, while Marcia Enloe maintained her role with the Gilpin Ambulance Authority. 

Discussions also focused on the potential for Proposition 123 funding to support affordable housing. Public forum topics included updates on broadband grants and the possibility of a rail transit stop in Rollinsville.

In February, the Council addressed the dissolution of the Main Street Central City Commission. During the meeting, Main Street Commission Chair Barbara Thielemann explained that the commission transitioned its operations to a newly formed 501(c)(3) nonprofit, Main Street Central City (MSCC). 

This move aimed to consolidate efforts and provide the nonprofit with more autonomy in marketing and funding. The Council approved Resolution No. 24-06, formalizing this change. 

Additionally, a resolution was passed authorizing the acquisition of a pickup truck and backhoe/loader for the Water Department. Public forum discussions included Central City Opera’s need for summer housing for festival artists and updates on gaming licenses, including approval for the Crystal Palace.

In March, a Central City work session discussed the ongoing efforts of Gilpin County Senior Living (GCSL), a 501(c)(3) nonprofit led by Senator Jeanne Nicholson. GCSL proposed a Senior Housing Project to address the county’s critical need for affordable, senior-friendly residences. No site was found that had the flat topography desired. 

By May, a City Council meeting saw residents voicing opposition to SOBs in Central City. Concerns included crime, property values, and the city’s reputation. 

Ordinances 24-02 and 24-03, aimed at regulating SOB locations and licensing, were tabled for further legal review. Discussions revealed a range of perspectives, with some advocating for the proposed establishment Rick’s Cabaret, represented by Eric Langan of RCI Hospitality Holdings.

In June, a special meeting addressed potential conflicts of interest for Mayor Jeremy Fey due to his association with RCI. Fey operates a business in a building owned by RCI and had previously attended RCI events. Legal counsel confirmed no legal conflict, but Fey recused himself from certain discussions to avoid public perception issues.

July brought progress for the Belvidere Theatre restoration, which received a $250,000 allocation, pushing total funds raised to $4.5 million of the $9 million goal. 

Public forums continued over SOBs, with the council considering zoning changes to restrict these businesses to industrial areas. The debates attracted attention from major news outlets.

In August, discussions included a potential ballot question to gauge public sentiment on SOBs. The council reviewed zoning options, eventually approving ordinances restricting SOBs to industrial zones. 

Mayor Pro-tem Kara Tinucci recused herself, citing her husband’s past association with RCI. The council emphasized the importance of community input while adhering to regulatory compliance.

September saw the city celebrate Clara Brown Day, unveiling the newly renamed Clara Brown Way. Known as the “Angel of the Rockies,” Brown’s legacy as a pioneer and philanthropist was honored with events, including a ceremony at St. James Methodist Church. The renaming sparked some resident concerns, but city officials assured a smooth transition for affected addresses.

In October, the council began discussions on the 2025 budget. City Manager Daniel Miera outlined key points, including a projected $300,000 growth in the General Fund and repayments to the fund from the Historic Preservation Fund for loans used in the Belvidere Theatre restoration, which has cost approximately $4.2 million so far. 

The session discussed increased revenue per gaming device despite a reduction in overall devices, with projected State Gaming Tax revenue set at $1,018,000 for 2025. Trash service costs have risen to nearly $98,000, while $200,000 was set aside for historic building improvements, potentially aiding the Gilpin Arts Association in repairing Washington Hall. 

The meeting also addressed transportation fees for gaming devices, eventually passing the ordinance on its first reading with plans to refine it further.

In November, a council meeting featured updates on the 2025 budget, including allocations for the Belvidere Theatre. 

The council approved raising transportation gaming device fees to $175 to support the intercity shuttle. 

The Belvidere Foundation continued its fundraising efforts, aiming to complete restoration by Colorado’s 150th anniversary in 2026.

By December, the city celebrated outgoing council members Kara Tinucci and Jeff Aiken. The council approved the Gregory Gulch Urban Renewal Plan. They will be replaced by Zane Plsek and Chuck Spencer. Central City looks to 2025 with new leadership and a commitment to preserving its unique heritage.