BLACK HAWK — The February 11 Black Hawk City Council meeting opened with introductions, recognition for the Police Department, and several unanimous votes on City business, including a key step forward for the Bates Hill Trailhead project.

Bridge project moves forward

Council approved a contract for the fabrication and delivery of a steel pedestrian bridge as part of the Bates Hill Trailhead project.

The 35-foot bridge will span the Gregory Diggings rock cut and include a viewing platform. The structure will be fabricated off-site and delivered as a single span.

Staff said the contract was brought forward early because fabrication takes more than six months. Other parts of the project, including trail construction, parking lot expansion, and stairs will be presented later.

Once complete, the bridge will help connect trail segments linking Bates Hill with Chase Gulch and nearby historic features.

New hires welcomed

Police Chief Michelle Moriarty introduced three new police officers and a communications officer to council.

Samuel Bruno comes from a background in ministry and mentorship. Moriarty said his experience working with families and community members aligns well with the department’s approach to policing.

Jacob French grew up in a law enforcement household and always planned to follow his father into the profession. Lily Corpus, a Colorado native, funded her own police academy training before being hired by the City.

Tanya Kayler joins the city as a communications officer. She previously worked as an EMT and ski patrol member and said those experiences shaped her commitment to public service.

Alderman Paul Bennet joked that new hires are expected to stay at least five years. Council members spoke about teamwork and dedication as key parts of working for the city.

Department earns accreditation

Council also recognized the Black Hawk Police Department for completing accreditation through the Colorado Association of Chiefs of Police.

The process required proof of compliance with 213 professional standards. Assessors reviewed policies, toured facilities, and verified operations in person. City staff said the visiting assessor was impressed with the department and the city overall.

Graywater ordinance adopted

The group held a public hearing on an ordinance addressing graywater treatment systems.

Staff explained that changes in state law require municipalities to formally prohibit graywater systems unless locally authorized. Because the systems have limited use in Black Hawk and would require additional oversight, the ordinance prohibits them within city limits.

No public comment was received. The measure passed unanimously.

Propane agreement approved

Council approved an on-call agreement with Polar Gas/Thompson Gas LLC for propane supply, not to exceed $50,000. Propane is used to heat buildings at the Hidden Valley Water Treatment Plant. Staff said only one local supplier submitted a proposal.

Postal service lease renewed

Council approved a new lease agreement with the United States Postal Service for the property at 7340 Black Hawk Boulevard.

The agreement includes a five-year term with two optional five-year extensions. Rental rates will increase by about 20% compared to the current lease.

Other business

City Manager Steve Cole asked the council to consider increasing stipends for election judges. He said compensation has not changed since at least 2014 and proposed a $50 increase per judge per shift.

The city attorney said staff will bring forward an ordinance in response to a recent Colorado Supreme Court decision limiting municipal penalties for offenses covered by state law.

An executive session listed on the agenda was canceled. The meeting adjourned at 3:16 p.m.

The next regular meeting is set for February 25 at 3 p.m. at City Hall, 211 Church Street.