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Vol. 22 No. 1 - January 1, 2022

Contents

• Tri-Lakes Monument Fire Protection District and Donald Wescott Fire Protection District, Dec. 8: Historic fire district unification approved
• Monument Academy School Board, Dec. 6 and 9: Monument Academy struggles with concerns about leadership
• Tri-Lakes Monument Fire Protection District, Dec. 1: Major step taken toward unification
• Donald Wescott Fire Protection District, Dec. 8 and 15: IGA and 2022 budget approved
• Black Forest Fire/Rescue Protection District, Dec. 8: Director remembered; 2022 budget adopted
• Lewis-Palmer D 38 Board of Education, Dec. 13: Communications program, demographic study, open enrollment policy discussed
• Monument Board of Trustees Special Meeting, Dec. 7: Board approves 2022 budget
• Monument Planning Commission Public Hearing and Work Session, Dec. 8: Triview and church enclave annexations approved; maximum building height discussed
• Palmer Lake Board of Trustees, Dec. 9: Policy on short-term rentals approved
• Triview Metropolitan District, Dec. 14: Triview to provide Forest Lakes Metro District operator services
• Forest Lakes Metropolitan District and Pinon Pines Metropolitan Districts 1, 2, and 3, Dec. 6: Rate increases for residents; 2022 budgets and mill levies adopted
• Tri-Lakes Wastewater Treatment Facility Joint Use Committee, Dec. 14: Another successful year appreciated
• Donala Water and Sanitation District, Dec. 9: Board considers volume-based sewer rates
• Monument Sanitation District, Dec. 15: Financial reports approved; election scheduled
• Woodmoor Water and Sanitation District, Dec. 20: New year to bring new rates; lake trail to be temporarily closed
• El Paso Board of County Commissioners, Dec. 2, 7, 14, and 21: 2022 budget approved amid dispute over more funding for Public Health
• Woodmoor Improvement Association, Dec. 15: Middle school speed limit signs to be reinstated
• December Weather Wrap
• Letters to Our Community
• Monument trustees need to enforce remote attendance rule /a>
• Every penny counts
• Between the Covers at Covered Treasures Bookstore: New year, new beginnings
• January Library Events: Despite understaffing, Friday and Saturday hours extended
• Palmer Lake Historical Society, Dec. 12: 88th Palmer Lake Yule Log Hunt
• High Altitude Nature and Gardening (HANG): Winter seed planting with milk jug as cloche
• Art Matters: Artists have a vision they share with others
• Snapshots of Our Community
• Boy Scouts Honored Vets, Nov. 8
• Small Town Christmas, Dec. 4
• North Pole Fair, Dec. 4
• Monument Tree Lighting, Dec. 4
• Drought Continues, Dec. 12
• Tip-A-Cop, Dec. 9
• Ornament Party, Dec 11
• TLMA Benefit Concert, Dec. 18
• DWFPD Santa on Patrol, Dec. 18
• Black Forest AARP returns
• MPD, PLPD Santa on Patrol, Dec. 18
• Wreaths Across America, Dec. 18
• Letters to Santa, Dec. 20
• MITEE Exhibition
• Fox Run Park Pet Memorial Tree
• TLWC helps Monumental Impact
• Key Club Volunteers at TLC, Dec. 15
• Bell Ringing, Dec. 18
• An important message for our readers: Our Community News needs your help!
• Our Community Notices
• Our Community Calendar

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Vol. 21 No. 12 - December 4, 2021

UPDATE: The Donald Wescott Fire Protection District board meeting, has been changed to Wednesday Dec. 8 at 4 p.m.
EVENT ADDED: Tri-Lakes Music Association resumes our annual Christmas cantata this year on Friday December 17th @ 7 pm, Saturday December 18th @ 7 pm, and Sunday December 19th @ 2 pm. Location: The auditorium of Palmer Ridge High School, 19255 Frontage Road Monument, CO 80132, just north of I-25 and Hwy 105. Point of Contact: email trilakesmusic@gmail.com and website is https://sites.google.com/site/trilakesmusicassociation.

Contents

• Monument Board of Trustees Special meeting Nov. 3: Raises built into 2F fund for police; disparities in raises questioned
• Monument Board of Trustees Meeting, Nov. 17: Unprecedented 10 percent raise for town employees; rules on remote attendance overridden
• Lewis-Palmer D-38: Board of Education, Nov. 15: Members take oath of office, student voices regarding No Place for Hate, budget discussion
• Monument Planning Commission Work Session, Nov.10: Maximum allowable building height and Higby Road designs discussed
• Monument Academy School Board, Nov.11: Monument Academy high school principal resigns
• D-38 District Accountability Advisory Committee, Nov. 9: Update on Lewis-Palmer High School, Strategic Plan Priority 2: world-class education
• Palmer Lake Board of Trustees, Nov. 4 and 18: Proposed 2022 budget on track for approval
• Donald Wescott Fire Protection District and Tri-Lakes Monument Fire Protection District, Nov. 10: Joint special meeting hears feasibility study presentation for potential unification
• Donald Wescott Fire Protection District, Nov. 16: Unification diving deeper; 2022 Budget proposed
• Tri-Lakes Monument Fire Protection District, Nov. 17: 2022 Budget approved early; surprise promotion
• Black Forest Fire/Rescue Protection District, Nov. 17: Public hearing on the 2022 budget
• Woodmoor Water and Sanitation District, Nov. 15: Rates likely to rise in 2022
• Monument Sanitation District, Nov. 17: Rates unchanged in 2022
• Triview Metropolitan District, Nov. 17 and 18: Potential regional water system becomes more tangible
• Donala Water and Sanitation District, Nov. 18: Personnel and customer policies updated
• El Paso County Planning Commission, Nov. 2 and 18: WMMI variance of use recommended for approval
• El Paso Board of County Commissioners, Nov. 2, 9, and 16: More road funds allocated in proposed 2022 budget; WMMI variance of use approved
• Northern El Paso County Homeowners Associations (NEPCO), Nov. 13th: NEPCO holds board elections, hosts county commissioners
• Woodmoor Improvement Association, Nov. 17: Board raises dues, fines, and fees
• November Weather Wrap
• Letters to Our Community
• Proposed water tank in Fox Run Regional Park
• Between the Covers at Covered Treasures Bookstore: ‘Tis the Season for Great Books
• December Library Events: Holiday closures announced, ramp continues to progress
• Palmer Lake Historical Society, Nov. 18: World War II ski troops: 10th Mountain Division
• High Altitude Nature and Gardening (HANG): Are holiday plants safe for pets and kids?
• On the Trail (in memory of Tim Watkins): Santa Fe Open Space update
• Art Matters: Million-dollar doodles
• Snapshots of Our Community
• The Palmer Lake Star shines brightly
• Cruisers elects new board, Nov. 3
• Matlida The Musical, Nov. 5-7
• Furrow Road extension, Nov. 4
• Forest appreciation walk, Nov. 13
• Ringing the bell, Nov. 15
• PL Little Free Libraries
• St. Peter Holiday Boutique, Nov. 13
• TLCA benefit for PLPD, Nov. 13
• PL time capsule filled, Nov. 21
• Pronghorn antelope
• Palmer Lake display at DIA
• MPD and Walmart deliver meals
• Cruisers donate to TLC, Nov. 19
• Alpaca extravaganza
• EIS volunteers help fire victims
• Anderson book signing, Nov. 27
• Chili and Star Lighting, Nov. 27
• Our Community Notices
• Our Community Calendar

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Vol. 21 No. 11 - November 6, 2021

 Correction: The caption for the four photographs which accompany the article on Donald Wescott Fire Protection District lists the individuals in the wrong order. The correct order, from left to right is: Driver Operator Justin Myers and Firefighter/EMTs Seung Ju Han, Matthew Griggs, and David Bowker. We sincerely apologize for the error in identifying these individuals.
 Correction: According to John Stansfield, during his presentation sponsored by the Palmer Lake Historical Society on Oct. 21, the Long Expedition camped at the headwaters of Monument Creek July 10-12, 1820. We incorrectly reported the expedition came through our area in 1812. We sincerely apologize for the error.

Contents

• Monument Academy School Board, Oct. 5, 7, and 28: Board negotiates temporary exit to Highway 105
• Lewis-Palmer D38 Board of Education, Oct. 18: Board hears presentation on student mental health, recognizes local partnerships, discusses staff compensation
• Lewis-Palmer D38 District Accountability Advisory Committee, Oct. 12: Discussion of Strategic Plan priority 1; review of bylaws
• Monument Board of Trustees, Oct. 4: Higby Road and Jackson Creek Parkway updates; land resolutions approved
• Monument Planning Commission, Oct. 13: Higby Road annexation, town code, and industrial zoning standards discussed
• Palmer Lake Board of Trustees, Oct. 14 and 28: Time capsule planned for Town Hall
• Donald Wescott Fire Protection District, Oct. 19: Staff take oath of office; volunteer retirement pension increase approved
• Black Forest Fire/Rescue Protection District, Oct. 20 and 28: 2022 budget revealed; eight firefighters hired
• Tri-Lakes Monument Fire Protection District, Oct. 4 and 27: Unification progressing; 2022 budget discussed
• Woodmoor Water and Sanitation District, Oct. 10: Irrigation water policy examined
• Tri-Lakes Wastewater Treatment Facility Joint Use Committee, Oct. 12: Master plan update scheduled for 2022
• Monument Sanitation District, Oct. 20: Board reviews finances and developments
• Triview Metropolitan District, Oct. 21: District might expand service boundary
• Donala Water and Sanitation District, Oct. 21: Aging well infrastructure raises concerns
• El Paso County Planning Commission, Oct. 7: Two minor subdivisions approved; information session on Highway 83 Access Control Plan
• El Paso Board of County Commissioners, Sept. 28, Oct. 5, 12, 19, 21, and 26: Initial 2022 budget hearings held
• Woodmoor Improvement Association, Oct. 27: Board recognizes Chief Kevin Nielsen for 30 years of service
• October Weather Wrap
• Letters From Our Community
• Between the Covers at Covered Treasures Bookstore: Fall into great new books
• November Library Events: Hours change; ramp progresses
• Palmer Lake Historical Society, Oct. 21: Long Expedition Bicentennial: Exploring the Front Range, 1820
• Emergency Preparedness: Northwest El Paso County Evacuation Drill, Oct. 2
• High Altitude Nature and Gardening (HANG): Windowsill zombies; bringing outdoor pots indoors
• On the Trail (in memory of Tim Watkins): Santa Fe Open Space update
• Art Matters: National artists Sunday
• Snapshots of Our Community
• Teens help clean up the community garden
• Correction: Demolished building was Elliot’s store, not Henry Station
• Palmer Lake Creek Week, Sep. 25
• PLAG makes Holiday ornaments
• Black Forest Farmers Market, Oct. 9
• American Heritage Girls, Oct. 1
• PLAG Show, Oct. 8
• DAR work on Fox Run Park, Oct. 9
• Ruth Anne Steele fundraiser
• Pumpkin giveaway, Oct. 16
• 100+ Women Who Care, Oct. 20
• WMMI Oct. events
• Awake Palmer Lake .5K, Oct. 10
• Glen Park Trail work, Oct. 16
• Business Expo, Oct. 21
• Woodmoor sinkhole, Oct. 22
• Makers Market, Oct. 23
• St. Peter Trunk or Treat, Oct. 29
• Ballot issue 2F, Nov. 2
• Wildfire booksigning, Oct. 23
• TLC client appreciation pumpkins
• Oktoberfest and Trunk or Treat
• Our Community Notices
• Our Community Calendar

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Vol. 21 No. 10 - October 2, 2021

Correction: In the Palmer Lake Board of Trustees article, Palmer Lake Fire and Rescue Chief Christopher McCarthy is incorrectly referred to as Kevin McCarthy. We sincerely apologize for this error.

Contents

• Triview Metropolitan District, Sept. 16: Filtering, transporting, storing, and acquiring water
• Black Forest Fire/Rescue Protection District, Sept. 15: Joint exclusion plan approved
• El Paso County Planning Commission, Sept. 2: Red Rock Acres rezoning recommended for approval amid neighbors’ objections
• El Paso Board of County Commissioners, Sept. 7 and 14: Red Rock Acres rezoning approved despite opposition
• Donala Water and Sanitation District, Sept. 23: Special meeting to answer radium questions; grant for aquifer storage study
• Woodmoor Water and Sanitation District, Sept. 13: Savings from bond refinancing exceed expectations
• Monument Sanitation District, Sept. 15: Board sets public meetings on 2022 rates and budget
• Donald Wescott Fire Protection District, Sept. 21: Unification process concerns; volunteer pensions to increase
• Tri-Lakes Monument Fire Protection District, Sept. 22: Deputy chief’s retirement announced; wildland fire plans presented
• Monument Board of Trustees, Sept. 9: Darcy M. Schoening appointed to vacant trustee position
• Monument Planning Commission, Sept. 8: Final plats for Home Place Ranch and Sanctuary Pointe filings approved
• Palmer Lake Board of Trustees, Sept. 9 and 23 : Wilma French commemorated
• 10 running for three Academy School District 20 Board of Education seats
• Monument Academy School Board, Sept. 9: Board offers alternative to hoodies
• Lewis-Palmer D 38 Board of Education, Sept. 20: Board cancels election, receives reports on priority 2 of strategic plan
• Woodmoor Improvement Association, Sept. 22: Board hears owner’s concerns, discusses fee increases
• September Weather Wrap
• Letters to Our Community
• Between the Covers at Covered Treasures Bookstore: Here come the new releases!
• September Library Events: Math tutoring returns
• Palmer Lake Historical Society, Sept. 16: Pikes Peak Trolleys: past, present, future
• High Altitude Nature and Gardening (HANG): Autumn with an altitude
• Art Matters: Our local, artful life
• Snapshots of Our Community
• Repairing trails at Fox Run Regional Park
• Annual Monu-Palooza draws hundreds, Sept. 4
• 9/11 Memorial Ceremony - 20th Anniversary, Sept. 11
• Palmer Lake Wine Festival, Sept. 11
• Phil Keaggy at TLCA, Sept. 11
• Monument Junction, Sept. 15
• The Last Art Hop of 2021, Sept. 16
• Historic former Henry Station Store demolished, Sept. 21
• Bogguss at TLCA, Sept. 23
• Cruisers donate to TLC, Sept. 24
• Our Community Notices
• Our Community Calendar

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 Vol. 21 No. 9 - September 4, 2021

Contents

• Monument Board of Trustees, Aug. 16: Conexus service plan denied after hundreds protest
• Donala Water and Sanitation District, Aug. 19: Radium level prompts corrective response
• Monument woman’s 9/11 memories still strong 20 years after Ground Zero work
• Monument Board of Trustees, Aug. 2 and 9: Town attorney put on leave amid ethical questions
• Woodmoor Water and Sanitation District, Aug. 9: $6.8 million in savings expected from bond refinancing
• Forest Lakes Metropolitan District and Pinon Pines Metropolitan Districts 2 and 3, Aug. 16: Denver well moving forward; long-term water solutions discussed
• Monument Sanitation District, Aug. 18: District reviews providers
• Triview Metropolitan District, Aug. 19: Public safety, a common priority
• Palmer Lake Board of Trustees, Aug. 12 and 26: New town property proves challenging
• Lewis-Palmer D38 Board of Education, Aug. 16: Board receives reports on Energy Performance Project, enrollment
• Monument Academy School Board, Aug. 19: Board mourns Principal Richardson, loosens elementary school shoe dress code
• Donald Wescott Fire Protection District, Aug. 17: Unification process progressing; interim fire chief extension
• Tri-Lakes Monument Fire Protection District, Aug. 25: New operations chief sworn in; crew commendation received
• Black Forest Fire/Rescue Protection District, Aug. 25: Exclusion process stalls; staff requested; repairs needed
• El Paso County Planning Commission, Aug. 19: Black Forest minor subdivision recommended for approval
• El Paso Board of County Commissioners, July 27, Aug. 10 and 24: $134 million renewable water project proposed for county
• Woodmoor Improvement Association, Aug. 25: Board discusses tall grass and resident communication
• August Weather Wrap
• Letters to Our Community
• A call for School District 38 transparency
• Between the Covers at Covered Treasures Bookstore: Fall into great mysteries
• September Library Events: Meeting room available by reservation
• High Altitude Nature and Gardening (HANG): Fall birds and gardens
• Art Matters: Art: Our rich history of ideas made visible
• Snapshots of Our Community
• That’s a lot of plants!
• Black Forest Festival, Aug. 7
• Dion Pride at TLCA, Aug. 7
• National Nightout, Aug. 3
• Students present band show, Aug. 6
• Palmer Lake Try-athlon, Aug. 7
• WMMI Family Day, Aug. 7
• Community Garden, Aug. 7
• Hummingbird festival, Aug. 13
• Chamber awards, Aug. 20
• Monumental Impact, Aug. 13
• Chasqui at TLCA, Aug. 14
• Benet Hill installs new prioress
• Art Hop, Aug. 19
• SEW Year of the Story, Aug. 22
• Ms. T gets garden plaque, Aug. 26
• WWII veterans recognized, Aug. 27
• Correction
• Our Community Notices
• Our Community Calendar

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Vol. 21 No. 8 - August 7, 2021

Contents

• Monument Board of Trustees, July 19: In the fall, board will ask voters to raise taxes
• Triview Metropolitan District, July 22: Conexus warehouse plans explained; audit nears completion
• Woodmoor Water and Sanitation District, June 21 and July 12: District bond refinancing plan approved
• Forest Lakes Metropolitan District and Pinon Pines Metro Districts 1, 2, and 3, July 13 and 19: Water restrictions change; Pinon Lake access denied; 2020 audits approved
• Donala Water and Sanitation District, July 15: District reviews budget at midyear
• Monument Sanitation District, July 21: Updated 2020 audit approved
• Monument Academy School Board, July 15: Board rejects COVID testing; reverts to in-person only meetings
• Black Forest Fire/Rescue Protection District, July 21: Staffing turbulence; exclusion process is slow
• Donald Wescott Fire Protection District, July 20: 2021 budget tight; staff promoted
• Tri-Lakes Monument Fire Protection District, July 28: 2020 audit accepted; Wescott unification
• Palmer Lake Board of Trustees, July 8 and 22: Board charts course on short-term rentals
• El Paso County Planning Commission, July 15: Business event center proposed; Cloverleaf development moves forward
• El Paso Board of County Commissioners, July 6, 15, and 20: New special district approved for Cloverleaf development
• Woodmoor Improvement Association, June 30 and July 28: WOSC requests easement clarification; board discusses fire danger
• July Weather Wrap
• Letters to Our Community
• Concerned about warehouse project
• Back to school
• Between the Covers at Covered Treasures Bookstore: Bring Colorado history to life
• August Library Events: Some programs reinstated, summer reading ends
• Palmer Lake Historical Society, July 17: Walking Tour: History of U.S. Pike Forest Monument Preserve
• High Altitude Nature and Gardening (HANG): The green prescription to a healthy, long life
• Art Matters: Art is a necessary life resource
• Snapshots of Our Community
• Lodge honors five
• Sertoma places flags
• Independence Day Festivities, July 3 - Photos by David Futey
• Monument Street Fair, July 3
• Jackson Ranch Chipping Day, July 10
• Adams at TLCA, July 17
• TL Cruisers’ cars at JCSL, July 25
• Palmer Lake Festival, July 4
• Art Hop, July 15
• PLAG Show at TLCA, July 16
• Rosie’s car show, July 25
• First Responder Kits
• New playground opened, July 26
• OCN photo contest winner
• Our Community Notices
• Our Community Calendar

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Vol. 21 No. 7 - July 3, 2021

• Monument Academy School Board, June 14: Board discusses new COVID testing program, welcomes new board members
• Tri-Lakes Monument Fire Protection District, June 23: Wescott unification progress; residential assessment rates dropping
• Lewis-Palmer D38 Board of Education, June 14: Board approves energy plan, Grace Best plan, annual budget
• Donald Wescott Fire Protection District, special meeting June 15: Board approves feasibility study for unification
• Black Forest Fire/Rescue Protection District, June 16: Administrator and accountant hired
• Monument Board of Trustees, June 7: Monument approves land ordinances, hears presentations
• Monument Planning Commission, June 9: Annexation and zoning requests recommended for approval
• Monument Board of Trustees, June 21: Voters will be asked to forgo a refund, allowing town to keep excess revenue
• Palmer Lake Board of Trustees, June 10 and 24: Board approves medical marijuana storefront, renews license for pub
• Monument Sanitation District, June 16: New manager making district more efficient
• Triview Metropolitan District, June 17: Board decisions continue water progress and potential road collaboration
• Donala Water and Sanitation District, June 17: Clean 2020 annual audit presented
• El Paso Board of County Commissioners, June 1, 15, and 22: Cloverleaf preliminary plan approved; Master Plan certification received
• Fireworks ban rescinded, clarified
• Area code requirement for local 719 and 970 calls coming soon
• MVEA planning broadband for rural Colorado
• Northern El Paso County Home Owners Associations (NEPCO), May 8: Land use and growth
• June Weather Wrap
• Between the Covers at Covered Treasures Bookstore: Kids’ guides to Colorado
• July Library Events: Summer Adventure continues; some programs resume
• On the Trail (in memory of Tim Watkins): Be prepared
• High Altitude Nature and Gardening (HANG): Touch-free soil aeration, thistle sandwiches, and drunken compost
• Art Matters: Space travel, #dearMoon project, Anthropocene-era art
• Snapshots of Our Community
• They Kept Their Promise
• Lions Club Fishing Derby, June 5
• DAR plants perennials, June 8
• Black Forest Fire Remembered
• RRR Firewise program, June 12
• Parking at Monument Lake
• Co-housing groundbreaking, June 19
• Integrity Bank sponsors parade
• WMMI Family Day, June 12
• Farmer’s Market, June 19
• #NeonNights, Prom 2021
• TLC Appreciation Day, June 23
• JC Garage Sale, June 25
• Wine tasting, June 19
• PLHS Ice Cream Social, June 20
• MCSS needs drivers
• “Sailfish” sculpture gets plaque
• Well 3 re-drilled
• Purely Ponds Parade
• Front Range Makers Market, June 26
• OCN photo contest winners
• Our Community Notices
• Our Community Calendar

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Vol. 21 No. 6 - June 5, 2021

• Monument Board of Trustees, May 3: Monument will hold Independence Day festivities
• El Paso County Planning Commission Master Plan adoption hearing, May 5 and 26: New county Master Plan approved
• El Paso County Planning Commission, May 5 and 20: Grandwood Ranch and Cloverleaf developments move forward
• El Paso Board of County Commissioners, April 27, May 4, 18, and 25: Grandwood Ranch final plat approved
• Town of Monument Planning Open House, May 11: Monument updating land development code
• Monument Planning Commission, May 12: New planning director announced; alternate commissioner sworn in
• Monument Board of Trustees, workshop and regular meeting, May 17: Monument residents may see refunds from town revenue overages
• Palmer Lake Board of Trustees, May 13 and 27: Board rescinds parking ban for visitors
• Forest View Acres, April 28 and May 26: District may piggyback on town’s newest water tank for emergency access
• Woodmoor Water and Sanitation District, May 10: Board plans to refinance bonds, replace old meters
• Monument Sanitation District, May 7 and 19: New district manager selected; attorney acts ahead of board’s direction
• Donala Water and Sanitation District, May 20: Board workshop produces actionable items
• Triview Metropolitan District, April 29 and May 20: Big summer project: boring under I-25
• Forest Lakes Metropolitan District and Pinon Pines Metro Districts 2 and 3, May 27: Wells pursued; water purchase approved
• Tri-Lakes Monument Fire Protection District April 28, May 13, and 26: Unification explored; storm after-action report; wildland apparatus proposed
• Donald Wescott Fire Protection District special meetings May 13 and 17, regular meeting May 18: Wescott board directs chief to pursue feasibility of merger with TLMFPD
• Black Forest Fire/Rescue Protection District, May 19: Staffing turbulence; county commissioner visit; first annual awards
• Monument Academy School Board, May 13: Board selects new COO, discusses mask use
• Lewis-Palmer D38 Board of Education, April 6 and 26, May 4 and 17: Progress on energy audit and Grace Best Facility Master Plan
• Woodmoor Improvement Association, April 28 and May 26: Board discusses Furrow Road traffic, trash service
• May Weather Wrap
• Letters to Our Community
• Stay the Course on COVID-19
• Wait before you COVID vaccinate your children
• Stop ignoring the natural immunity of the COVID-recovered
• Between the Covers at Covered Treasures Bookstore: The great outdoors is calling
• June Library Events: Summer Adventure begins
• High Altitude Nature and Gardening (HANG): Garden telltale signs and surprises
• Art Matters: 2021: Artful walks in our community
• Snapshots of Our Community
• Downtown Monument Art Hop is back!
• Gravestone cleaning, Apr. 6
• Higby Road cleanup, Apr. 25
• Black Forest Spring Show returns
• Wildfire mitigation demo, May 15
• Arbor Day in Monument, Apr. 30
• PL firefighters honored, May 4
• “HollyDay” at Fox Run Park, May 15
• Volunteers improve the PL parks
• Memorial Day ceremony, May 31
• LPMS concert, May 12
• OCN photo contest winner
• Our Community Notices
• Our Community Calendar

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Vol. 21 No. 5 - May 1, 2021

• Monument Academy School Board, April 8: COO Herrera resigns; board hears Highway 105 update
• Black Forest Fire/Rescue Protection District, April 21: Replacement staff hired; new engine for 2022
• Lewis-Palmer D-38 District Accountability Advisory Committee, April 13: Panel hears reports on Gifted Education, Home School Enrichment Academy
• Donald Wescott Fire Protection District, March 29 and April 20: Interim fire chief sworn in; FLSA dispute continues
• Monument Board of Trustees, April 5: Home rule a possibility for Monument; land uses pass
• Monument Planning Commission, April 14: Three projects recommended for approval
• Monument Board of Trustees, April 19: Board repeals emergency pandemic declaration
• Palmer Lake Board of Trustees, April 8 and 22: Board continues to seek fair plan for street parking
• Woodmoor Water and Sanitation District, April 12: Cost of water re-use study increases
• El Paso Board of County Commissioners, March 30, April 6, 13, and 20: Cloverleaf development rezoning approval a "win-win"
• El Paso County moves to fewer COVID-19 restrictions
• April Weather Wrap
• Letters to Our Community
• Keep wearing your mask
• Liberate the face
• Masks are ineffective and harmful: Free the face
• May Library Events: Changes in services, programming for May
• On the Trail (in memory of Tim Watkins): County Search and Rescue
• High Altitude Nature and Gardening (HANG): Early birds for gardens and mucho mulch
• Art Matters: Crypto art, an online-only prize
• Snapshots of Our Community
• Sandstone Ranch Open Space
• Internship Symposium, Apr. 12
• LPHS presents Drowsy Chaperone
• 100+ Women Who Care, Apr. 21
• Assessing fire danger, Apr. 12
• MPD info night, Apr. 20
• A Fowl Day, Apr. 21
• Operation Gratitude, Apr. 23
• Fox Farm History, Apr. 24
• Earth Day at Fox Run Park, Apr. 22
• TLC Boot Barn Fundraiser, Apr. 23
• Reynolds Ranch House, Apr. 24
• Great American Clean Up, Apr. 24
• OCN photo contest winner
• Our Community Notices
• Our Community Calendar

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Vol. 21 No. 4 - April 3, 2021

• El Paso Board of County Commissioners, March 2, 9, and 16: County seeks public comment on draft Master Plan
• El Paso County Planning Commission, March 18: Cloverleaf development rezoning recommended for approval
• Sheriff’s Office reports recent mail thefts
• County Line Road bridge reconstruction
• Monument Board of Trustees, March 1: Board continues to contend with Promontory Pointe access issue
• Monument Board of Trustees, March 15: Native Sun Annexation passes; new police vehicles on order
• Palmer Lake Board of Trustees, March 11 and 25: Parking strategy takes shape; water debate continues
• Woodmoor Water and Sanitation District, March 8: Capital projects and water re-use plan move forward
• Tri-Lakes Wastewater Facility Joint Use Committee, March 9: Cost-sharing method confirmed
• Monument Sanitation District, March 17: Preventive maintenance contracts; public access to meeting
• Donala Water and Sanitation District, March 18: Leak nightmare fosters policy exception
• Triview Metropolitan District, March 18: Warmer weather gives rise to project activity
• Donald Wescott Fire Protection District, Feb. 18, March 9 Payroll discrepancies rectified; ISO rating improves
• Black Forest Fire Rescue/Protection District, March 23: Fire code variance concern; fleet modifications needed
• Tri-Lakes Monument Fire Protection District, March 24: Chief impressed by collaboration during storm
• Lewis-Palmer District 38 Board of Education, March 15: Board approves contracts for two principals, discusses return to in-person learning, testing
• Monument Academy School Board, March 11: Board hears from Concurrent Enrollment consultant, prepares for assessments
• Northern El Paso County Home Owners Association, March 13: Library district CEO gives overview
• Woodmoor Improvement Association, March 24: Updates on developments including the Walters property
• March Weather Wrap
• Letters to Our Community
• Show my dead body
• Between the Covers at Covered Treasures Bookstore: Timeless treasures
• April Library Events: Library offers printing of tax forms, other services
• High Altitude Nature and Gardening (HANG): Garden friends and foes and deleting voles
• Art Matters: Zoom videos, art, and lighting
• Snapshots of Our Community
• Community honors first responders
• Arlene’s Beans helps fund armor
• Local authors sign books, Mar. 20
• Homestead Ranch Regional Park
• Palmer Lake bridge plaques
• Free ground cover-Purge the Spurge
• Vietnam War Veterans Day, Mar. 29
• Which districts do you live in?
• Thank You, Judy
• OCN photo contest winner
• Our Community Notices
• Our Community Calendar

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Vol. 21 No. 3 - March 6, 2021

• Lewis-Palmer District 38 Board of Education, Feb. 22: Board discusses impact of COVID-19 and plans for reopening
• Monument Sanitation District, Feb. 17: District may refuse town’s TENORM treatment wastewater
• Lewis-Palmer District 38 District Accountability Advisory Committee, Feb. 9: Committee hears communication update, information about Lewis-Palmer Middle School
• Monument Academy School Board, Feb. 11: Board discusses High School options, updates board policies
• Woodmoor Water and Sanitation District, Feb. 8: Regional water re-use project planning underway
• Donala Water and Sanitation District, Feb. 18: District bolsters cybersecurity defenses
• Triview Metropolitan District, Feb. 18: District strives to create robust water system
• Forest View Acres Water District, Feb. 24: State of district and potential inclusion discussed
• Monument Board of Trustees, Feb. 1: Village at Jackson Creek development
• Monument Planning Commission, Feb. 10: The Flynn Project, UPS Distribution Center, Sanctuary Pointe Filing No. 9 all approved for recommendation
• Monument Board of Trustees, Feb. 16: Property purchase avoids new building costs
• Palmer Lake Board of Trustees, Feb. 4, 11, and 25: Board appoints new trustee; water debate continues
• Donald Wescott Fire Protection District meeting, Feb. 16: Meeting with firefighters’ union approved
• Black Forest Fire/Rescue Protection District, Feb. 17: In-person attendance only—despite storm and COVID-19
• Tri-Lakes Monument Fire Protection District, Feb. 24: Officer Lucas honored; Station 1 remodel to begin May 2
• Royal named Colorado Springs fire chief
• El Paso Board of County Commissioners, Feb. 9 and 16: County Master Plan nears completion; progress at three Tri-lakes area developments
• Woodmoor Improvement Association, Feb. 24: Board hears certified election results, reviews finances
• February Weather Wrap
• Letters to Our Community
• Cleared town employees deserve public apology
• Between the Covers at Covered Treasures Bookstore: Planning and preparing your garden
• March Library Events: Adult Reading Program continues; Take and Make Kits available
• On the Trail (in memory of Tim Watkins): Santa Fe Open Space to open later this year
• High Altitude Nature and Gardening (HANG): Gardening for bird safety: ditching the feeders
• Art Matters: Zoom fatigue: Artists have a cure
• Snapshots of Our Community
• Palmer Ridge High holds Snowball ;"Dance;"
• Bearbotics season begins
• Ham radio field day, Jan. 30
• The Great Fruitcake Toss, Jan. 23
• LEOs sort eyeglass donations
• Today I Choose to be Happy
• Mystery and suspense in Monument
• Virtual wine tasting fund raiser
• Plane rides the train, Feb. 13
• Winter watering, Feb. 19
• PLFD wildfire training, Feb. 20
• Tri-Lakes Women’s Club contest raises over $10,000
• Renewing made easy
• Which districts do you live in?
• OCN photo contest winner
• Our Community Notices
• Our Community Calendar

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 Vol. 21 No. 2 - February 6, 2021

• Donald Wescott Fire Protection District, Jan. 19: Chief Burns to retire after over 40 years
• Monument Board of Trustees, Jan. 19: Financial investigation finds no wrongdoing; bond-related water projects move forward
• Monument Board of Trustees Special Meeting, Jan.11: Town passes pandemic-related resolution
• Black Forest Fire/Rescue Protection District, Jan. 20: Wildfire risk; exclusion/inclusion policy; COVID-19 protocols
• Tri-Lakes Monument Fire Protection District, Jan. 27: 100-day plan; COVID-19 vaccinations; staff awards
• Monument Board of Trustees, Jan.4: UPS distribution center; water-related projects
• Monument Planning Commission, Jan. 13: New chair and vice chair for PC; Gleneagle Dental relocation plan approved
• Palmer Lake Board of Trustees, Jan. 14 and 28: New leadership addresses old problem: water
• Woodmoor Water and Sanitation District, Jan. 11: Board considers non-potable water strategy
• Tri-Lakes Wastewater Treatment Facility Joint Use Committee, Jan. 12: What regulations will be coming down the pipe?
• Monument Sanitation District, Jan. 20: Board resolves infrastructure issue
• Triview Metropolitan District, Dec. 28 and Jan. 21: Renewable water resource secured
• Donala Water and Sanitation District, Jan. 21: Waste output, water input draw district’s attention
• District 38 District Accountability Advisory Committee, Jan. 12: LPES presentation, safety and security update, budget review
• Monument Academy School Board, Jan. 6 and 14: Board sets 2021 goals, reviews vision
• Lewis-Palmer District 38 Board of Education, Jan. 25: Board marks School Board Recognition Month, discusses mid-year budget adjustment and conditions during pandemic
• El Paso Board of County Commissioners, Jan 12, 19, and 26: Rezoning and final plat approvals for Black Forest properties
• Northern El Paso County Home Owners Associations (NEPCO), Jan. 23: NEPCO has Zoom meeting and welcomes county engineer
• Woodmoor Improvement Association, Jan. 27: Board shares annual report, organizes for
• January Weather Wrap
• Letters to Our Community
• Tri-Lakes community deserves thanks
• Anonymous D38 ad criticized
• Misguided resolution by Monument trustees
• Monument welcomes COVID
• Monument Board of Trustees “irresponsible” for considering pandemic sanctuary city
• Upset over town’s COVID-19 response and anonymous ad
• Between the Covers at Covered Treasures Bookstore: Gobsmacked (astounded) by nature
• February Library Events: Library reopens with limited services; adult reading program begins
• On the Trail (in memory of Tim Watkins): Ham radio from the mountaintop
• High Altitude Nature and Gardening (HANG): February gardening: free flowers, free food
• Art Matters: Van Gogh and the deadly blank canvas
• Snapshots of Our Community
• Ice Fishing on Monument Lake
• TreeCycle, Jan. 2
• Red Kettle donations, Jan. 14
• Devon’s Dog Park
• Vaccine at JCSL, Jan. 11
• Blucher honored, Jan. 15
• New Monument well, Jan. 19
• Baker: Business Person of the Year
• Jarrito Loco relocating
• Pet shot clinic, Jan. 23
• OCN photo contest winners
• Our Community Notices
• Our Community Calendar

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 Vol. 21 No. 1 - January 2, 2021

• Monument Board of Trustees, Dec. 7: Board suggests town become pandemic sanctuary city; budget approved
• Polar Express display given permanent home in Colorado Springs museum
• Lewis-Palmer District 38 Board of Education, Dec.14: Board discusses plans for second semester, approves contract for energy audit
• Monument Planning Commission, Dec. 9: UPS Distribution Center Site Plan and Sanctuary Pointe Filing No. 8 Plat approved
• Palmer Lake Board of Trustees, Dec. 10: New mayor and trustees take their seats
• Palmer Lake Board of Trustees Special Meeting, Dec. 15: Board struggles to alleviate impacts of Level Red restrictions on restaurants
• Monument Academy School Board, Dec. 10: Board hears assessment report, COVID-19 impacts
• Forest Lakes Metropolitan District and Pinon Pines Metro Districts 1, 2, and 3, Dec. 7: Wastewater rates increase approved
• Triview Metropolitan District, Dec. 10: $5.5 million for water storage tops 2021 list of needs
• Donala Water and Sanitation District, Dec. 10: 2021 finances and policy changes established
• Monument Sanitation District, Dec. 16: Board approves 2021 budget
• Tri-Lakes Monument Fire Protection District, Dec. 2 and 5: New fire chief selected; 2021 budget approved
• Black Forest Fire/Rescue Protection District, Dec. 9: 2021 budget approved
• Donald Wescott Fire Protection District meeting, Dec. 1: 2021 budget approved as focus is on reserves
• El Paso Board of County Commissioners, Dec. 1, 8, 15, and 22: Approval for residential development on Benet Hill Monastery land; WMMI litigation update
• El Paso County Planning Commission, Dec. 17: Rezoning and final plat applications for Black Forest properties recommended for approval
• December Weather Wrap
• Letters to Our Community
  • There's no substitute for community helpers
  • Schools need to maintain COVID safety Standards
  • Thank you, Monument Academy
  • A student's perspective
  • We expect fair and accurate reporting
  • D38 students need to be in school full time, five days a week
• Between the Covers at Covered Treasures Bookstore: Make a resolution to read some classics
• December Library Events: Library continues curbside service
• High Altitude Nature and Gardening (HANG): Local winter wildlife
• Art Matters: Stain paintings: a fortuitous, incidental art of delicate beauty
• Snapshots of Our Community
• Santa on Patrol
• Lolley’s Ice Cream opening soon
• Monument Police Bike Patrol
• Comet arrives in Monument
• Walking to LPHS, Dec. 7
• Ahoy, Rudolph!
• Santa in Monument!
• Monumental Impact donates to TLC
• Ice fishing on Monument Lake
• National Wreaths Across America
• Red Kettle Campaign
• Stars
• Holiday Lights
• OCN photo contest winners
• And we hear from our readers...
• Our Community Notices
• Our Community Calendar

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Vol. 20 No. 12 - December 5, 2020

• Monument Academy School Board, Nov. 4, 12, and 19: Board dips deeper into reserves, resets virtual learning
• Triview Metro District, Nov. 19: District contemplates decrease in mills and change in address
• Lewis-Palmer District 38 Board of Education, Nov. 16: Board reviews practices during pandemic, recognizes first responders and student achievement
• Lewis-Palmer District 38 District Accountability Advisory Committee, Nov. 10: Committee hears about Palmer Ridge High School, Special Education activities
• Donala Water and Sanitation District, Nov. 19: Regionalization considerations include water and wastewater
• Monument Sanitation District, Nov. 18: Board postpones budget approval due to failure to post it
• Woodmoor Water and Sanitation District, Nov. 16: Public hearing on budget held
• Monument Board of Trustees, Nov. 9: Willow Springs Ranch approved for infrastructure buildout
• Monument Board of Trustees, Nov. 16: Newest well will bring in additional ground water
• Palmer Lake Board of Trustees, Nov. 12: Public hearing on 2021 budget held
• Donald Wescott Fire Protection District, Nov. 17: 2021 budget disagreements may see a loss of a chief position
• Tri-Lakes Monument Fire Protection District, Nov. 18: Fire chief final candidates announced; COVID-19 report
• Black Forest Fire/Rescue Protection District, Nov. 18: Residents petition for exclusion; proposed 2021 budget gets public hearing
• El Paso Board of County Commissioners, Nov. 3, 10, 17, and 24: Grandwood Ranch initial plans, Rollin Ridge final plat approved; Highway 105 project update
• El Paso County Planning Commission, Nov. 5 and 19: Rollin Ridge final plat recommended for approval; residential development proposed on Benet Hill Monastery land
• Northern El Paso County Coalition of Community Associations, Nov. 14: NEPCO welcomes county commissioners
• Woodmoor Improvement Association, Dec. 18: Board approves budget, plans common areas improvements
• November Weather Wrap
• Letters to Our Community
• Advice for wildlife encounters
• December Library Events: Library access further restricted due to coronavirus risk
• High Altitude Nature and Gardening (HANG): Our rocky mountainous year
• Art Matters: The arts and our health
• Snapshots of Our Community
• Celebrate small businesses
• Drive-through COVID-19 test site
• Harvest of Love
• Train Separation in Palmer Lake
• TLC provides Thanksgiving
• OCN nominated for award
• Hatfield - volunteer of the year
• Kiwanis donates to TLC
• Turkey crossing
• The eagle has landed
• Silver Alliance Thrift Store is open
• Visitor on-street parking prohibited
• Monumental Impact
• Bell ringing kicks off
• Chili Supper supports PL star
• Christmas spirit in Tri-Lakes
• OCN staff
• And we hear from our readers
• Our Community Notices
• Our Community Calendar

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 Vol. 20 No. 11 - November 7, 2020

• Lewis-Palmer District 38 Board of Education, Oct. 26: Board discusses continued impact of COVID-19, approves refinancing bonds
• Monument BOT, Oct. 5: Request for high mill levy concerns board
• Monument gets drive-through COVID-19 test site
• Monument Academy School Board, Oct. 8 and 15: Board considers changes to learning options, accepts board member Byrd’s resignation
• Lewis-Palmer District 38 District Accountability Advisory Committee, Oct. 13: Committee receives COVID-19 impact update, reviews bylaws and schedule
• Monument Planning Commission, Oct. 14: Plans for Willow Springs Ranch Filing No. 1 Plat approved
• Monument Board of Trustees, Oct. 19: Board continues work on 2021 budget
• Developer community meeting, Oct. 1: Jackson Creek North Filings 3-6 proposal presented
• Palmer Lake Board of Trustees, Oct. 8 and 22: Board discusses design for reservoir trailhead parking, chicken and goat ordinance
• Woodmoor Water and Sanitation District, Oct. 12: Lake trails’ closure causes community concern
• Tri-Lakes Wastewater Facility Joint Use Committee, Oct. 13: Dealing with issues one at a time
• Donala Water and Sanitation District, Oct. 15: "Phenomenal" savings achieved
• Monument Sanitation District, Oct. 21: No rate increases for now; learning curve continues
• Triview Metropolitan District, Oct. 6 and 22: Scammer masquerading as Triview personnel?
• Donald Wescott Fire Protection District, Oct. 20: COVID-19 guidelines continue; updates received
• Black Forest Fire/Rescue Protection District, Oct. 21: County commissioners criticized; proposed 2021 budget discussed
• Tri-Lakes Monument Fire Protection District, Oct. 28: 2021 budget changes presented; fire chief search progressing
• El Paso Board of County Commissioners, Oct. 6, 13, and 27: Initial 2021 budget hearings held
• El Paso County Planning Commission, Oct. 15: Initial plans for Grandwood Ranch recommended for approval
• Woodmoor Improvement Association, Oct. 28: Board approves replacement of Barn windows
• October Weather Wrap
• Letters to Our Community
• Proud parents of first-generation seekers of college education
• Between the Covers at Covered Treasures Bookstore: New releases for the gift-giving days ahead
• October Library Events: Indoor book drop added, curbside remains available
• High Altitude Nature and Gardening (HANG): Nature in November
• Art Matters: Art supports human resilience
• Snapshots of Our Community
• Monument Safe Trick or Treat
• DWFPD’s new tender
• Creek Week in Palmer Lake
• Lions upgrade playground
• Monument street improvements
• Empty Bowls benefits TLC
• St. Peter Holiday Craft Fair
• WMMI Harvest Festival
• Palmer Lake .5K “Race”
• Eagle Scout’s memorial unveiled
• WMMI Pumpkin Patch
• TLWC donates cards and quilts
• Friends of Fox Run Park hike
• PL firefighters collect slash
• Author and family visit bookstore
• TLWC awards grant to EIS
• Hodgen Rd. wildfire, Oct. 12
• Skate Park gets a makeover
• NASTaP tree tour
• Trunk or Treat, Oct. 28
• Poll Snacks
• OCN photo contest winner
• Our Community Notices
• Our Community Calendar

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 Vol. 20 No. 10 - October 3, 2020

• Palmer Lake Board of Trustees, Sept. 10 and 24: Temporary moratorium on new water taps now in effect
• Monument Board of Trustees, Sept. 8: Board prepares for bond sales
• MA School Board, Sept.10: Board discusses school opening, distance learning challenges
• Lewis-Palmer School District 38 Board of Education, Sept. 21: Monument Academy gives Annual Report; distance learning update
• Monument Board of Trustees, Sept. 21: Town sells $22 million in debt to finance water projects
• Monument Planning Commission, Sept. 9 and 23: Busy public comment; new leadership
• Tri-Lakes Wastewater Facility Joint Use Committee, Sept. 9: Budget, sampling, and sharing knowledge
• Woodmoor Water and Sanitation District, Sept. 14: Projects advance; district awards construction contract
• Pinon Pines Metropolitan District 1, Sept. 14: Bond refinanced for one section of Forest Lakes
• Forest Lakes Metropolitan District and Pinon Pines Metropolitan Districts 2 and 3, Sept. 15: Water restrictions tighten; trail license approved
• Triview Metropolitan District, Sept. 15: Triview wins Colorado State accolade for JCP project
• Monument Sanitation District, Sept. 12 and 16: Interim manager terminated; working to fill the gaps
• Donala Water and Sanitation District, Sept. 17: New land, new plan, additional counsel
• Black Forest Fire/Rescue Protection District, Sept. 3 and 9: Disability claim denied; future revenue in hands of voters
• Donald Wescott Fire Protection District meeting, Sept. 15, 22: Board favors de-Gallagherization
• Tri-Lakes Monument Fire Protection District, Sept. 23: Fire chief search timeline; Amendment B and the 2021 budget
• El Paso Board of County Commissioners, Sept. 8, 15, and 22: Decisions made relating to two ongoing developments
• El Paso County Planning Commission, Sept. 17: Special use approved for additional living quarters
• Colorado Department of Transportation, Sept. 17: I-25 South Gap project: safety, cost-effectiveness, reliability
• NEPCO, Sept. 12: NEPCO continues virtual meetings
• Woodmoor Improvement Association, Sept. 23: Board begins five-year trail and open space improvement plan
• September Weather Wrap
• Letters to Our Community
• The choices we face
• Palmer Lake trustee endorsements
• Why did the Dems lose the non-college educated white male vote?
• Backing Kit Bromfield
• Kit Bromfield endorsement
• The importance of your vote for county commissioner
• Between the Covers at Covered Treasures Bookstore: Step back in time with history books
• October Library Events: Additional services return; curbside pickup remains available
• High Altitude Nature and Gardening (HANG): Using bright, warm, protective tunnels for plants
• Art Matters: Augmented reality art: our most contemporary art
• Snapshots of Our Community
• Take a Kid Mountain Biking
• Art weekends in local scenic spots
• Monu-Palooza, Sept. 6
• Boy Scouts learn about space
• Run4Hope 5K for Schools, Sept. 19
• Snowstorm, Sept. 9
• BSNF coal train, Sept. 19
• Fine Art & Crafts Market, Sept. 26
• OCN photo contest winners
• Our Community Notices
• Our Community Calendar

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Vol. 20 No. 9 - September 5, 2020

• Monument Academy School Board, Aug.13: Board approves opening plan for both campuses
• Triview Metro. District, Aug. 18: Working to keep developments and financial strength aligned
• Monument BOT, Aug. 17, 24: Voters will see sales tax increase on Nov. ballot
• Lewis-Palmer School District 38, Aug. 4, 11, and 24: Board changes leadership, passes COVID-19 resolution
• Woodmoor Water and Sanitation District, Aug. 10: Capital improvement projects proceed
• Forest Lakes Metropolitan District and Pinon Pines Metropolitan Districts 2 and 3, Aug. 11: Mandatory water restrictions; southern trail could be extended
• Monument Sanitation District, Aug. 19: Interim manager appointed; Wagons West, Willow Springs on the horizon
• Donala Water and Sanitation District, Aug. 20: Refinancing step benefits from low interest rates
• Monument Board of Trustees, Aug. 3: Board approves emergency water fixes, two land development requests
• Monument Planning Commission, Aug. 12: Commission approves plans for Woodmen Valley Chapel, Conexus Business Park Phases 2 and 3; trail options discussed
• Palmer Lake Board of Trustees, Aug. 13 and 27: Local restaurant favorite to reopen; trailhead to remain closed
• Donald Wescott Fire Protection District, Aug. 18: De-Gallagherization initiative moves forward
• Black Forest Fire/Rescue Protection District, August 19: Fleet replacement planning re-evaluated
• Tri-Lakes Monument Fire Protection District, Aug. 26: Fire chief search underway
• El Paso Board of County Commissioners, July 28, Aug 11, 18, and 25: WMMI appeals litigation decision
• Woodmoor Improvement Association, Aug. 26: Board fills vacancy, approves roof work on Barn
• August Weather Wrap
• Letters to Our Community
• Resume activities and athletics for students
• The right words
• Between the Covers at Covered Treasures Bookstore: New fall releases
• September Library Events: In-person, curbside, and virtual services available
• High Altitude Nature and Gardening (HANG): Let’s make a local seed library!
• Art Matters: Making art: Flow for the pursuit of happiness
• Snapshots of Our Community
• Sunset over Mount Herman
• Home ignition zone
• Bookstore celebrates Colorado Day
• King’s Deer Garage Sale, Aug. 7-9
• Gold panning championships
• Silver Center Book Club. Aug. 14
• Power outage, July 31
• Ham operators prepare
• LPHS Class of ‘75 makes donation
• Black Forest Reverse Parade
• "Forest Den" - a mystery
• Palmer Lake virtual TRY-athlon
• Monument Lake maintenance
• Inline skating at LPMS
• Chamber guest speaker, Aug. 26
• Fishing license checks, Aug. 15
• Hip, Hip Hooray, PLVFD! Aug. 15
• Hummingbird Festival, Aug. 21
• OCN photo contest winners
• Our Community Notices
• Our Community Calendar

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Vol. 20 No. 8 - August 1, 2020

• NEPCO Inc., July 11: NEPCO reports on local land development projects
• D-38 Board of Education, July 20: Board reviews back-to-school plan
• TLMFPD, July 22: Fire Chief Truty retiring
• Monument Academy School Board, July 15 and 16: Board passes torch, discusses opening
• BFFRPD July 15: Dual taxation addressed
• Donald Wescott Fire Protection District, July 21: Board approves steps toward election for de-Gallagherization
• Pinon Pines Metropolitan District 1, July 13: Reduction in mill levy sought; water restrictions, trail closures addressed
• Woodmoor Water and Sanitation District, July 13: New pump station at Lake Woodmoor favored
• Donala Water and Sanitation District, July 16: Water and wastewater solutions working smoothly
• Triview Metropolitan District, July 23: District pursues Nov. 3 ballot initiative
• Monument Board of Trustees, July 6: Willow Springs and Monument Ridge projects approved
• Monument Planning Commission, July 8 and 22: Commission recommends for approval project proposals including Falcon Commerce Center
• Monument Board of Trustees, July 20: Possible tax increase ballot question; water issues occurring
• Palmer Lake Board of Trustees, July 9 and 23: Increased use of lake brings headaches for town
• El Paso County Board of County Commissioners, June 30 and July 14: New cell tower approved; I-25 Gap project updated
• Woodmoor Improvement Association, July 22: Board levies fire fines, approves improvements to the Barn
• Pleasant View Estates almost never existed
• July Weather Wrap
• Letters to Our Community
• Monument Academy set to open new East campus
• Little Free Library
• Between the Covers at Covered Treasures Bookstore: Reading the West award winners
• August Library Events: Limited indoor services continue
• Palmer Lake Historical Society: Celebrating Colorado in August: statehood, summiting Pikes Peak, and suffrage
• High Altitude Nature and Gardening (HANG): Foraging, food, ethnoecology: Adapting and alpacas help
• Art Matters: Art meets NASA: Renaissance, Dutch baroque, and space art
• Snapshots of Our Community
• Farm to Farmers Market
• AARP remembers vets, July 1
• TLCA makes improvements, July 2
• Flags along Gleneagle Dr., July 3
• Flyover, July 4
• "Virual" July 4th Fun Run
• Oregon firefighters help sand watch
• Bears have people problems
• Backyard Farmers Market, July 11
• WMMI machinery demos, July 18
• "Bi Bertha" installed at Lolley's
• Local mom makes face masks
• Many thanks, Danny, July 25
• OCN photo contest winner
• Our Community Notices
• Our Community Calendar

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Vol. 20 No. 7 - July 4, 2020

• Lewis-Palmer District 38 Board of Education, June 22: Board approves budget, discusses back-to-school plans and distance learning
• Monument Academy School Board, June 9: Board hears plans for next year, including increased marketing
• Monument Board of Trustees, June 15: Local young marine receives national recognition
• Monument Planning Commission, June 10 and 24: Planning Commission approves development projects in virtual meetings
• Burglaries, shots fired in Monument
• Palmer Lake Board of Trustees, June 11 and 25: New fire chief sworn in; stormwater ordinance updated
• Perspective on Our Community: Reservoir Access Road Closure
• Donald Wescott Fire Protection District, June 16: No money approved for requests, including increased retirement benefits
• Black Forest Fire/Rescue Protection District June 3, 11, and 17: Langmaid hired as fire chief; new 4x4 ambulances arrive
• Tri-Lakes Monument Fire Protection District, June 24: Annexation complications; office space purchase
• Woodmoor Water and Sanitation District, May 11 and June 10: Board addresses COVID-19 concerns, plans Central Water Treatment Plant upgrade
• Triview Metropolitan District, June 16 and 17: District responds to social media commentary
• Donala Water and Sanitation District, June 18: Water and wastewater solutions working smoothly
• El Paso County Planning Commission, June 2 and 16: Two special uses in the Tri-Lakes area recommended for approval
• El Paso Board of County Commissioners, June 9 and 23: CARES Act funds to be disbursed to Monument, Palmer Lake
• Woodmoor Improvement Association, June 24: Board discusses ash disposal, expanding trails, and awards
• June Weather Wrap
• Letters to Our Community
• Walking with purpose: thoughts on BLM in Colorado Springs
• Between the Covers at Covered Treasures Bookstore: Get out there!
• Perspective on Our Community: The stone soup of yard work
• July Library Events: Library reopens with limited indoor services
• Palmer Lake Historical Society: 100 years: celebrating the story of women’s suffrage
• High Altitude Nature and Gardening (HANG): Ethnoecology: traditional knowledge and composting
• Art Matters: Art: Genius artifact or destructive fabrication?
• Snapshots of Our Community
• Congratulations Class of 2020!
• Woodmoor chipping day, June 6
• Black Forest Fire 7th Anniversary
• Local artist’s fundraiser dragonfly
• Monument Lake fence, June 8
• Schuh wins PLAG scholarship
• Wirewood Station, June 14
• WMMI resumes tours
• Monument Lake dock extended
• Breakfast drive-through, June 13
• BLM demonstrations, June 7, 14
• New county park opened June 27
• Flying Horse Ranch history
• Monument pioneers, July 4, 2019
• OCN photo contest winners
• Our Community Notices
• Our Community Calendar

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Vol. 20 No. 6 - June 6, 2020

Contents

• Lewis-Palmer District 38 Board of Education, May 19: Board hears report from Monument Academy, discusses budget decisions
• MA School Board, May 6: Board approves 10% budget cut, cancels raises
• Safer at Home
• Local Events
• Lewis-Palmer District 38 District Accountability Advisory Committee, May 29: Committee discusses budget, end-of-year reflections, multiple pathways
• Pinon Pines Metropolitan District 1, May 11 and 18: New board directors appointed
• Tri-Lakes Wastewater Treatment Facility Joint Use Committee, May 12: Smooth operations continue
• Donala Water and Sanitation District, May 14: Wells disappoint as summer approaches
• Triview Metropolitan District, May 20: Big water rights and water storage plans advance
• Forest View Acres Water District, May 27: Board discusses financial reports and turbidity
• Donald Wescott Fire Protection District meeting May 19: New board members take oath of office
• Black Forest Fire/Rescue Protection District, May 20: No change in directors; 2019 audit is "clean"
• Tri-Lakes Monument Fire Protection District, May 27: Board members sworn in; land purchase on horizon
• Monument Board of Trustees, May 4: Trustee Clark censured; new trustees seated
• Monument Board of Trustees, May 18: Trustee censure remains in effect; treasurer appointed
• Monument Board of Trustees Special Meeting, May 27: Town prepares to open with expanded restaurant seating and retail space
• Palmer Lake Town Council, May 14 and 28: Fireworks canceled, clerk and fire chief sworn in, parking fines increased
• El Paso County Planning Commission, May 19: North Bay at Lake Woodmoor development recommended for approval
• El Paso Board of County Commissioners, Apr 28, 30, May 5, 12, 14, 19, 26, and 28: North Bay at Woodmoor Lake development approved
• Homeowners save nearly 100 acres of open space
• May Weather Wrap
• Letters to Our Community
• People urged to control their dogs on the trails
• Tri-Lakes Cares: more than a food pantry
• Boy raising money to protect police
• In support of wearing masks
• Between the Covers at Covered Treasures Bookstore: Books to keep you and your family sane and productive
• June Library Events: Curbside service now available, Summer Reading game cards ready for pickup
• Palmer Lake Historical Society: 1918-19 pandemic impact on Colorado schools
• High Altitude Nature and Gardening (HANG): Foraging, forests, and food hiking in Tri-Lakes
• Art Matters: ARTcation: throw for flow
• Snapshots of Our Community
• Honoring medical workers
• Essential hidden heroes, Apr. 20
• Men honored for their efforts, May 1
• Monument Lake regrading, May 6
• OCN mailing day, Apr. 30
• Antelope Trails Parade of Thanks
• Bee’s Book Club makes masks
• Coal car derailment, May 13
• Fundraiser walk for Bakhita, May 16
• Piping encouragement, May 8
• Visible address numbers
• Community Meeting House, May 17
• Drive-through awards ceremony
• TLC donations collected, May 25
• Enjoying Palmer Lake, May 29
• Hydrant rainbow, May 22
• Not all heroes wear capes
• OCN photo contest ends June 26
• Having a July 4^th celebration?
• Our Community Notices
• Our Community Calendar

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Vol. 20 No. 5 - May 2, 2020

Contents

• Lewis-Palmer District 38 Board of Education, April 21: In-person classes canceled for the remainder of the year; graduation plans in progress
• MA School Board, April 9: Board reviews eLearning, construction
• Black Forest Fire/Rescue Protection District, April 15: Emergency disaster declared; board election canceled
• Donald Wescott Fire Protection District, March 31 and April 21: May 5 election discussed; annual audit clean
• Tri-Lakes Monument Fire Protection District, April 22: Election, land purchase, and COVID-19 insight
• Monument Board of Trustees, April 6: Radium requests reconsidered and approved
• Monument Board of Trustees, April 20: Trustees sworn in; outgoing members shown appreciation
• Palmer Lake Town Council, April 9, 11 and 23: Council bans parking on streets
• Forest Lakes Metropolitan District and Pinon Pines Metro Districts 1, 2, and 3, April 6: Land exclusions and inclusions; Forest Lakes PPMD 2 infrastructure underway
• Donala Water and Sanitation District, April 16: Board election and COVID-19 status outlined
• Triview Metropolitan District, April 22: Resolutions mark significant changes
• Woodmoor Water and Sanitation District, April 13: Virus concerns prompt meeting cancellation
• El Paso Board of County Commissioners, March 31, April 7 and 21: County meetings held primarily remotely as COVID-19 restrictions continue
• El Paso County Planning Commission, April 7 and 21: Changes to meetings during outbreak; minor subdivision request recommended for approval
• April Weather Wrap
• Letters to Our Community
• Inspired by Winston Churchill
• A Perspective on Our Community: You can help keep our firefighters safe
• Between the Covers at Covered Treasures Bookstore: A perfect time to read aloud
• May Library Events: Large selection of virtual programs available during closure
• Palmer Lake Historical Society: Colorado: 1918 pandemic hindsight is 2020
• High Altitude Nature and Gardening (HANG): Planet Earth: Farming or mining? We have 60 harvests left
• Art Matters: From caves to pencils to screens—and back to pencils
• Snapshots of Our Community
• Local sixth-grader makes ear protectors
• Virtual Birthday Party, Mar. 30
• Seniors-only shopping hours, Apr. 1
• Demand lessens, supply returns
• Monument Election Results, April 7
• Meals-on-Wheels delivers, Apr. 8
• Even a horse is wearing a mask
• Masks for the front-line workers
• Home Depot barricade, Apr. 8
• Gleneagle Circuit Training, Apr. 9
• Un-invited
• Volunteers make masks
• Appreciation for medical workers
• Masks from Black Forest
• Celebrating Easter, Apr. 11
• D-20 distributes lunches
• Food for those in need
• Free lettuce
• Local church helps feed homeless
• Essential hidden heroes
• Hiking protocol
• Our Community Notices
• Our Community Calendar

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Vol. 20 No. 4 - April 4, 2020

Contents

• Lewis-Palmer D38 Board of Education, March 16: Board discusses plans for extended closure, approves bus purchase
• Triview Metropolitan District, March 18: New NMCI role explored; COVID-19 addressed
• Monument Academy School Board, March 12: Board approves pandemic plan, construction contingencies, and teachers’ raises
• Save the pipes, don’t flush wipes
• Tri-Lakes Wastewater Facility Joint Use Committee, March 10: Plans reviewed for uninterrupted wastewater facility operations
• Donala Water and Sanitation District, March 26: COVID-19 induces extra steps; engineers advise creative steps
• Monument Board of Trustees, March 2: Additional radium treatment process request fails
• Monument Board of Trustees Candidate Forum, March 10: Candidates discuss issues affecting Monument
• Monument Planning Commission, March 11: New planning commissioners and BOA member sworn in; Zone Change and PD Sketch Plan for The Village approved
• Monument Board of Trustees special meeting, March 23: Monument declares local disaster; virtual meetings approved
• Palmer Lake Town Council, March 12, 25, and 26: Town hires architects and an attorney
• Donald Wescott Fire Protection District special meeting, March 17: Local emergency disaster preparations approved
• El Paso Board of County Commissioners, March 10, 17, 19, 24, and 26: Temporary meeting rules adopted during COVID-19 outbreak; construction at Struthers Road/Gleneagle Drive intersection nears completion
• Voluntary Organizations Active in Disasters, March 12: Your actions will protect vulnerable people during a pandemic
• Mar. 3 Presidential Primary Election Results
• Colorado Estates neighborhood meeting, March 9: Neighbors help prepare for wildfire to come
• March Weather Wrap
• Letters to Our Community
• Domestic cats are the No. 1 killer
• Great job, Safeway
• A Perspective on Our Community: Hindsight: It’s a small world
• Between the Covers at Covered Treasures Bookstore: Time to start those gardens
• April Library Events: All facilities closed until further notice
• High Altitude Nature and Gardening (HANG): Victory Gardens today offer hope, boost morale
• Art Matters: Winston Churchill on art, inspiration, and courage
• Snapshots of Our Community
• OCN Readers: We need your photos for our May 2 issue
• CC students at Black Rose, Feb 28
• COVID-19 Help Line: 575-8888
• Pegmatites at WMMI, Mar. 10
• Water-wise Gardening, Mar. 13
• Churches find ways to serve
• Time on our hands
• A day in the life of Tri-Lakes, Mar. 18
• Remote learning
• Lunches for vets, first responders
• D38 provides computers
• A fond farewell to Jennifer
• Our Community Notices
• Drivers on I-25 cautioned to "heed the speed"
• Our Community Calendar

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Vol. 20 No. 3 - March 7, 2020

Contents

• Monument Board of Trustees, Feb. 18: Intense discussion of radium in the water supply
• Lewis-Palmer D38 Board of Education, Feb. 10: Board discusses change in start time, hears MA annual report
• Lewis-Palmer D38 District Accountability Advisory Committee, Feb. 11: Committee receives reports on gifted education, communications, curriculum
• Monument Academy School Board, Feb.13: Board sets school calendar, discusses uniforms and board election
• Monument candidates' statements
• Palmer Lake Town Council, Feb. 13 and 27: Storm water planning underway
• Woodmoor Water and Sanitation District, Feb. 10: Board hears operational reports
• Forest Lakes Metropolitan District, Pinon Pines Metro Districts 2 & 3, Feb. 6: NEPA agreement, bond issue letters approved
• Tri-Lakes Wastewater Treatment Facility Joint Use Committee, Feb. 11: Unexpected benefits apparent in new clarifier system
• Donala Water and Sanitation District, Feb. 20: Staff changes forthcoming; leak policy sustained
• Triview Metropolitan District, Feb. 19: Coming to Triview homes: new water meter technology
• Donald Wescott Fire Protection District, Feb. 18: Wescott board hears grant request, receives donations
• Black Forest Fire Rescue/Protection District, Feb. 19: Board hears plea for disability; cheaper vehicle computers considered
• Tri-Lakes Monument Fire Protection District, Feb. 26: Land search begins; 2015 International Fire Code amendments adopted
• El Paso County Planning Commission, Feb. 4 and 18: Two minor subdivision requests recommended for approval
• El Paso Board of County Commissioners, Jan. 28 and 30, Feb. 4, 11, and 25: Final plat at Walden Preserve 2 filing approved
• Woodmoor Improvement Association, Jan. 27 and 29 and Feb. 26: WIA holds annual meeting, reorganizes board, hears Walters Open Space update
• February Weather Wrap
• Letters to Our Community
• Does D38 still deserve the $4 million in additional MLO funding?
• 20 years of tail-waggin' tales!
• Between the Covers at Covered Treasures Bookstore: March mystery madness
• February Library Events: Events continue during spring break
• Palmer Lake Historical Society, Feb. 20: Radio and its many pioneers
• High Altitude Nature and Gardening (HANG): The real bad guys harming wild birds, and dangers of potting soil
• Art Matters: Creative "geni-us" and making memories last
• Snapshots of Our Community
• Methodist Church EPG wins national award
• PLAG Winter Show, Jan. 31
• State of the Region, Feb. 7
• Chain Station at Black Rose, Feb. 14
• Winter fun at Fox Run, Feb. 1
• AARP hosts fire chief, Feb. 12
• TLWC at Kilmer, Feb. 13
• Monument Police Chief Hemingway introduced, Feb. 10
• Bakhita Mountain Home, Feb. 17
• CERT, Feb. 18
• D38 Chess Tournament, Feb. 22
• Michalicek at JCSL, Feb. 18
• The Village discussed, Feb. 18
• BOT Candidates, Feb. 25
• Water workshop, Feb. 28
• Pineries hike, Feb. 29
• Songwriters at TLCA, Feb. 29
• Our Community Notices
• Our Community Calendar

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Vol. 20 No. 2 - February 1, 2020

Contents

• Black Forest Fire Rescue/Protection District, Jan. 15: Operations captain hired; county fire code enforcement falls short
• An important message for our readers
• Donald Wescott Fire Protection District, Jan. 21: Wescott remembers board chairman; election moves forward
• Tri-Lakes Monument Fire Protection District, Jan. 22: Board of director positions open
• Monument Board of Trustees, Jan. 6: April trustee election set; 2019 expenses questioned
• Monument Planning Commission, Jan. 8: New members sworn in; Sanctuary Pointe Phase 3 Site Plan approved
• Monument Board of Trustees, Jan. 21: Development code updates underway
• Palmer Lake Town Council, Jan. 9 and 23: New council member appointed to replace Faust
• Monument Academy School Board, Jan. 9: Board discusses academic calendar, fills empty seat
• Lewis-Palmer D38 District Accountability Advisory Committee, Jan. 14: Committee receives reports on legislative activity, safety and security, and Bear Creek Elementary School
• Lewis-Palmer D38 Board of Education, Jan. 21: Board celebrates district achievements, thanks benefactors, views budget calendar
• Woodmoor Water and Sanitation District, Jan. 13: Board approves rules for election, business
• Tri-Lakes Wastewater Treatment Facility Joint Use Committee, Jan. 14: Total phosphorus treatment under way
• Donala Water and Sanitation District, Jan. 16: District considers NMCI NEPA Participation Agreement
• Triview Metropolitan District, Jan. 22: Misinformation dispelled and actions approved
• El Paso Board of County Commissioners, Jan. 2, 7, 14, and 16: Public improvements completed at two developments
• El Paso County Planning Commission, Jan. 7: Final plat for Walden Preserve 2 filing recommended for approval
• Northern El Paso County Coalition of Community Associations Inc., Jan. 11: NEPCO has plans for 2020 presentations
• January Weather Wrap
• Letters to Our Community
• Good news regarding property tax rates
• OCN: Who makes it possible?
• Between the Covers at Covered Treasures Bookstore: Heart and body health
• February Library Events: Adult Winter Reading Program begins; Valentine crafts available
• High Altitude Nature and Gardening (HANG): Protecting our forest clime when landscaping
• Art Matters: Mr. Jung Ying Tsao: Far East Fine Arts
• Snapshots of Our Community
• Pedestrian bridge installed in Palmer Lake
• WMMI Family Geology Day, Jan. 4
• Students help TreeCycle, Jan. 4
• Pedestrian bridge installed in Palmer Lake, Jan. 7
• AARP elects officers, Jan. 8
• Red Kettle collections top $48K
• Blue Canyon at Black Rose, Jan. 10
• Fundraiser for mental health, Jan. 11
• Medical examiner draws a crowd
• Guardrail at Black Rose, Jan. 24.
• Local EIS supports east county
• PLHS annual meeting, Jan. 16
• Parkinson’s support group, Jan. 18
• Wendy Woo at TLCA, Jan. 24
• Human Trafficking, Jan. 27
• Birds of Colorado, Jan. 27
• D38 Community Collaboration: "What’s next for D38?", Jan. 27
• Our Community Notices
• Our Community Calendar

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Vol. 20 No. 1 - January 4, 2020

Late Update: Lewis-Palmer School District 30 Community Collaboration Events:
Please join us in weighing options around the question "What's Next in D38?"
- January 15, 6:30-8:00 p.m. at Bear Creek Elementary School
- January 23, 2:00-3:30 p.m. at Lewis-Palmer Elementary School
- January 27, 6:30-8:00 p.m. at Lewis-Palmer High School
- January 30, 6:30-8:00 p.m. at Palmer Lake Elementary School
More info can be found at http://lewispalmer.org"> or by emailing info@lewispalmer.org

Contents

• Palmer Lake Town Council, Dec. 12 and 18: Simmering dissatisfaction brings rush of resignations
• Monument Academy School Board, Dec. 9: Board hears from bond advisor, learns about secondary school program, accepts member’s resignation
• Lewis-Palmer D38 Board of Education, Dec. 3 and 16: Newly elected members sworn in, officers appointed, audit approved
• Monument Board of Trustees, Dec. 2: April election ballot question approved; three trustee positions up for election
• Monument Planning Commission, Dec. 11: Tri-Lakes Monument fire station annexation approved
• Monument Board of Trustees, Dec. 16: Treasurer payout, 2020 budget approved
• Forest Lakes Metropolitan District and Pinon Pines Metro Districts 1, 2, and 3, Dec. 9: 2020 budgets and rate increases approved
• Woodmoor Water and Sanitation District, Dec. 9: New rates, budget for 2020 approved
• Triview Metropolitan District, Dec. 11: Rates up, mills down
• Donala Water and Sanitation District, Dec. 12: Rates, mill levies, and water storage feasibility study approved
• Donald Wescott Fire Protection District, Dec. 3: 2020 budget approved unanimously
• Tri-Lakes Monument Fire Protection District, Dec. 4: 2020 budget approved; engineer promoted
• Black Forest Fire/Rescue Protection District, Dec. 11: 2020 budget approved; interim chief extended
• El Paso Board of County Commissioners, Dec. 5, 10, 12, 17, and 19: Amendments to Forest Lakes Phase II approved
• Woodmoor Improvement Association, Dec. 18: Board updates reserve fund policy, approves renovation
• December Weather Wrap
• Corrections to the Dec. 7 issue of OCN
• Letters to Our Community
• Monument Academy: poised for the future
• D38 decision makers—can you hear us now?
• Between the Covers at Covered Treasures Bookstore: Great way to start the new year
• December Library Events: Learn to play the ukulele, improve your diet, and hear about the work of a forensic pathologist
• High Altitude Nature and Gardening (HANG): Our forests and trees can talk, cry, and sing to us
• Art Matters: Live longer with art in your life
• Snapshots of Our Community
• Tri-Lakes rings the bell for the Salvation Army
• Palmer Lake Star
• Open Space Contract, Dec. 3
• Hazel Miller at TLCA, Dec. 6
• Kiwanis Craft Fair, Dec. 7
• Song Spinners, Dec. 8
• Palmer Lake Fire & Safety, Dec. 6
• Monument Tree Lighting, Dec. 7
• School in the Woods, Dec. 10
• Church at Woodmoor, Dec. 11
• VFW honors veterans, Dec. 14
• Friends of Fox Run Park, Dec. 14
• Presents for Patriots, Dec. 14
• Santa on Patrol, Dec. 14 & 21
• Palmer Lake Yule Log, Dec. 15
• Outpouring, Dec. 17
• Ice Fishing on Monument Lake, Dec. 31
• Our Community Notices
• Our Community Calendar

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Vol. 19 No. 12 - December 7, 2019

Corrections:

The article, Citizens for a Better Palmer Lake, Nov. 20: Members vote on next steps, should have identified the woman in the photo as Christie Ramshur, not Christie Rancher. OCN reported that Ramshur "stressed the need for the trustees to return to serving the citizens." Ramshur corrected the statement to reflect her belief that "every trustee agreed to serve as a trustee in an effort to serve the citizens" and never indicated that they need to return to serving. We apologize for any confusion this error might have caused.

The article, Palmer Lake Town Council, Nov. 14: Council hears update on bridge, should have identified the person speaking on behalf of Awake the Lake as Darin Dawson, not Derek Austin. We apologize for any confusion this error might have caused.

Contents

• Monument Board of Trustees, Nov 18: Separation agreement for Treasurer, Home Place Ranch approved, All Kratom sales banned
• Nov. 5 Election Results
• Monument Planning Commission, November 13: Commissioners to depart MPC, Triview Final Plat and Comprehensive Plan Resolution approved, town code revision open houses to come
• Palmer Lake Town Council, November 14: Council hears update on bridge
• Citizens for a Better Palmer Lake, Nov. 20: Members vote on next steps
• Donald Wescott Fire Protection District, Nov 19: Budget 2020 begins with battalion chief additions
• Tri-Lakes Monument Fire Protection District, Nov. 20: Voters approve 6A; CDOT’s I-25 weather closure plans discussed; 2020 Budget reviewed
• Black Forest Fire/Rescue Protection District, Nov. 20: County ignoring its own rules, chief warns
• Lewis-Palmer D38 Board of Education, Nov. 4: Board says farewell to Director Mark Pfoff, Palmer Ridge geothermal field suit settled
• Lewis-Palmer D-38 Board of Education Town Hall Meeting, Nov. 14: District 38 holds town hall meeting after failed bond issue
• Lewis-Palmer D-38 District Accountability Advisory Committee, Nov. 12: Reports on Special Ed Advisory Committee, School Finance, and Legislative initiatives
• Monument Academy School Board, Nov. 14: Board hears revised budget and first COO report
• Lewis-Palmer D-38 Board of Education, Nov. 18: Post-election discussion, Somers’ Listening and Learning Tour
• Forest Lakes Metropolitan District and Pinon Pines Metro Districts 1, 2, and 3, Nov. 4: Rate increases proposed; preliminary 2020 budget discussed
• Woodmoor Water and Sanitation District, November 12: Walters property developer requests water
• Tri-Lakes Wastewater Treatment Facility Joint Use Committee, Nov. 12: Residents must allow utility easement access
• Triview Metropolitan District, Nov. 20: October’s record snowfall and cold temperatures stall Jackson Creek Parkway progress
• El Paso Board of County Commissioners, Nov 5, 12, and 14: Final direction for 2020 budget given; Struthers Road/ Gleneagle Drive intersection project progresses
• El Paso County Planning Commission, Nov. 5 and 19: Amendments to Forest Lakes Phase II recommended for approval
• Northern El Paso County Coalition of Community Associations Inc., Nov. 9: NEPCO holds annual elections, hosts county commissioners
• Woodmoor Improvement Association, Nov. 20: Board approves budget, hears WPS updates
• November Weather Wrap
• Letters to Our Community
• Tri Lakes, you were a fantastic chapter in my book of life!
• Thank you!
• Thanks to Dr. Somers
• Between the Covers at Covered Treasures Bookstore: ‘Tis the Season for Great Books
• December Library Events: Enjoy puppet shows and make last-minute gifts at your library
• High Altitude Nature and Gardening (HANG): Local trees: the heroes and villains
• Art Matters: Collecting art to live with and love
• Snapshots of Our Community
• Palmer Lake Chili Supper and Star Lighting
• Black Forest Arts & Crafts Show
• TLC Harvest of Love, Nov. 7, 14
• Crawford House Vets, Nov. 1-3
• MA Veterans Day, Nov. 11
• Home composting, Nov. 14
• Bettman & Halpin at TLCA, Nov. 15
• Blacksmithing at WMMI, Nov. 9
• Plaque honors vets, Nov. 11
• GWC arts and crafts show, Nov. 15
• A busy November for the TLWC
• Harley’s Hope, Nov. 17
• Friends of Fox Run Park, Nov. 16
• Bomb threat at Wal-Mart, Dec. 5
• Our Community Notices
• Our Community Calendar

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Vol. 19 No. 11 - November 2, 2019

Contents

• Woodmoor Improvement Association, Oct. 23: Board honors Officer Schill, encourages caution for estate sales and funerals
• Monument Board of Trustees, Oct. 21: Kratom moratorium extended ahead of eventual ban; I-25 Gap project revisions
• El Paso Board of County Commissioners, Oct. 1, 3, 8, 15, and 17: Abert Ranch preliminary plan approved; initial budget hearings held
• Monument Board of Trustees, Oct. 7: Town attorney advocates for developer to get rehearing
• Monument Planning Commission, Oct. 9: Site Plan Application and Final Plat for Jackson Creek North, Filing No. 2 approved
• Palmer Lake Town Council, Oct. 10 and 24: Well and drainage issues concern council
• Woodmoor Water and Sanitation District, Oct. 14: Water line replacement planned
• Triview Metropolitan District, Oct. 16: Jackson Creek Parkway widening project: Good news continues
• Donala Water and Sanitation District, Sept. 19 and Oct. 17: Green dye, other culprits plague wastewater system
• District Accountability Advisory Committee, Oct. 8: Summary of superintendent activities, legislative review, teacher evaluation process
• Monument Academy School Board, Oct. 10: Board selects new chief operating officer
• Lewis-Palmer D38 Board of Education, Oct. 28
• Donald Wescott Fire Protection District, Oct. 15: Seven promoted, including one new lieutenant
• Black Forest Fire/Rescue Protection District, Oct. 23: Part-timers become full-time; Flying Horse North lacks hydrants
• Tri-Lakes Monument Fire Protection District, Oct. 23: 2020 budget ideas hashed out; Red Rock Ranch HOA national Firewise award recognized; board vacancy filled
• September Weather Wrap
• Letters to Our Community
• Why I support Matthew Clawson
• Adam Cupp—candidate’s 4A “no” position
• A good way to control speech
• Misleading “con” statements published in voter guide by Strong D38 pro-bond issue committee
• Why we favor Mathew Clawson for District 38 School Board
• Real estate and schools
• Between the Covers at Covered Treasures Bookstore: Fall into great new books
• November Library Events: Try a new craft at the library
• Palmer Lake Historical Society, Oct. 17: Homesteaders on what are now Air Force Academy grounds
• High Altitude Nature and Gardening (HANG): Outsmarting weather and deer
• Art Matters: Awesome: algebra, imagination, and art
• Snapshots of Our Community
• Monument Beautification
• D38 Board Candidates Forum, Oct. 3
• Black Forest Together, Oct. 5
• Empty Bowls, Oct. 2
• Songwriters at TLCA, Oct. 4
• Take a Kid Mountain Biking
• Creek Week, Oct. 5
• North EPC Nature Center, Oct. 7
• D38 Hall of Fame, Oct. 12
• 100+ Women Who Care, Oct. 16
• Palmer Lake 0.5K
• TLWC awards Silver Alliance
• High Country Kids 4-H, Oct. 13
• Business Expo, Oct. 17
• Petra at TLCA, Oct. 25
• Pumpkin give-away, Oct. 19
• Trunk or Treat, Oct. 25
• Our Community Notices
• Our Community Calendar

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Vol. 19 No. 10 - October 5, 2019

Contents

• Palmer Lake Town Council, Sept. 12 and 24: Citizens’ committee presents concerns
• Monument Academy School Board, Sept. 12: Secondary school update: no YMCA, no new middle school seats
• An important message for our readers
• Lewis-Palmer D38 Board of Education, Sept. 10, 12 and 16: Board passes resolution regarding local control, designates strategic goals
• Monument Board of Trustees, Sept. 16: Home Place Ranch a nonstarter
• Donald Wescott Fire Protection District, Sept. 4 and 17: New board member selected
• Black Forest Fire Rescue Protection District, Sept. 25: Three apply for replacement position; fiscal policy updated
• Tri-Lakes Monument Fire Protection District, Sept. 25: New board president and treasurer selected; preliminary 2020 budget presented
• Woodmoor Water and Sanitation District, Sept. 9: Radium concerns being addressed
• Tri-Lakes Wastewater Treatment Facility Joint Use Committee, Sept. 10: Budget planning begins; testing talk continues
• Triview Metropolitan District, Sept. 10: Jackson Creek Parkway construction near midway point
• Woodmoor Improvement Association, Sept. 25: Board discusses tall grass mowing, new employee policy
• October Weather Wrap
• El Paso County Planning Commission, Sept. 17: Abert Ranch preliminary plan recommended for approval
• Letters to Our Community
• It’s all about the kids!
• Vote “yes” on question 4A
• On teacher compensation and Bond Issue 4A
• LPSD 38 needs Matthew Clawson
• Matt Clawson for school board
• The unmeasured costs of an overcrowded middle school
• Vote Matthew Clawson for school board
• Listen to our teachers
• The right man for the job
• Matt Clawson for re-election
• Moms for Matt Clawson
• Why does my education tax rate keep decreasing?
• Why this teacher supports Matt Clawson
• “Yes” on 4A for a strong community
• D38 still not listening: Vote “no” on school bond
• Why I support Matthew Clawson
• Here we go again
• Matthew Clawson, qualified to serve kids and community
• Critical thinking and dreams
• Vote for Clawson and for 4A
• Advancing the excellence of Monument Academy
• D38 bond and school board election
• Why I continue to support Matthew Clawson
• Matthew Clawson is my choice for D38
• Why our kids and community need Matthew Clawson
• D38 student estimates wrong
• Lewis-Palmer School District and your property taxes
• Vote for change
• MA’s new school provides new seats in D38
• Schwarz announces candidacy
• 2019 Lewis-Palmer School District 38 Bond—a “pro” statement
• Adam Cupp: D38 School Board candidate and man of integrity
• Between the Covers at Covered Treasures Bookstore: Book clubs are reading …
• September Library Events: Explore All Pikes Peak Reads
• Palmer Lake Historical Society, Sep. 19: Student details lives of Doc Holliday, Kid Curry
• High Altitude Nature and Gardening (HANG): Mullein, a backyard fountain of youth
• Art Matters: Visual culture: ranching and the ecology of art
• Snapshots of Our Community
• Citizens for a Better Palmer Lake reviews survey, considers actions
• New traffic light on 83, Sep. 5
• Family Day at WMMI, Sep. 7
• Family Freedom Festival, Sep. 14
• Phil Keaggy at TCLA, Sep. 6
• D38 bond open house, Sep. 10
• Palmer Lake Wine Festival, Sep. 14
• Short-term rental assessments
• Sertoma Patriot Golf, Sep. 17
• Somers at Outpourings, Sep. 17
• New Christy Minstrels at TLCA
• RMMA Concert, Sep. 14
• Flying Horse VIN Festival, Sep. 15
• Hope Restored in Black Forest
• Bines and Brews, Sep. 21
• TLMFPD Open House, Sep. 28
• Our Community Notices
• Our Community Calendar

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Vol. 19 No. 9 - September 7, 2019

Contents

• Lewis-Palmer D-38 Board of Education, Aug. 26: Board approves wording of bond issue, discusses local control in light of sex-ed law
• Monument Academy School Board, Aug. 8: Board hears leadership, funding, and design concerns
• Palmer Lake Town Council, Aug. 8 and 22: Council defers ballot initiative to fund Fire Department
• Monument Board of Trustees, Aug. 19: "Clean" 2018 audit accepted with board questions
• Woodmoor Water and Sanitation District, Aug. 12: Budget gets mid-year update
• Tri-Lakes Wastewater Treatment Facility Joint Use Committee, Aug. 13: Directors agree on baseline testing of radium in wastewater
• Donala Water and Sanitation District, Aug. 15: Key permit granted; district seeks long-term CSU agreement
• Triview Metropolitan District, Aug. 20: Jackson Creek Parkway widening project ahead of schedule
• Monument Sanitation District, Aug. 21: So-called "flushable" wipes clogging lift stations
• Black Forest Fire Rescue Protection District, Aug. 20: Interim chief extended again; 2018 audit is "clean"
• Tri-Lakes Monument Fire Protection District, Aug. 28: Labor agreement reached; Station 1 remodel approved
• El Paso Board of County Commissioners, July 30, Aug. 6, 13, 20, and 27: Highway 83 safety concerns raised; second dwelling variance approved for Black Forest property
• Woodmoor Improvement Association, Aug. 23: >Board hears from D38 superintendent, updates project standards
• August Weather Wrap
• Letters to Our Community
• Move beyond the status quo and thrive in Palmer Lake
• Noxious weed control
• Time to save our bees
• D38’s bond sabotages taxpayers. Here is why
• How about those portables?
• Running for re-election
• Adam Cupp for D38 school board
• Penny-wise but pound-foolish
• Building upon the legacy of Monument Academy
• D38-What is the truth?
• LPSD 38-middle school overcrowding
• Between the Covers at Covered Treasures Bookstore: Enjoy fall activities in Colorado
• September Library Events: Welcome fall with a library program
• Palmer Lake Historical Society, Aug. 3: Railroad Days celebrates completion of ‘Transcon’
• High Altitude Nature and Gardening (HANG): Gardens for people and pets; fall plantings
• Art Matters: Fine art and "dolce far niente"
• Snapshots of Our Community
• "TRY-athletes" enjoy a cool Palmer Lake splash
• TLWC supports MCSS
• AARP at the Black Forest Festival
• National Night Out, Aug. 3
• Black Forest Festival, Aug. 10
• Slash & Mulch program popular
• YMCA Volunteer Fair, Aug. 22
• BBQ at Jackson Creek Senior Living
• Tom Rush at TLCA, Aug. 27
• I-25 HazMat Survey, Aug. 19
• 100’s attend RAD event, Aug. 23
• New signal on Highway 83
• Elephant Rock Hike, Aug. 30
• Monument Indie Fest, Aug. 31
• Our Community Notices
• Our Community Calendar

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Vol. 19 No. 8 - August 3, 2019

Contents

• Palmer Lake Town Council, July 17: Board agrees to work on ballot tax issue to keep Fire Department
• Palmer Lake Town Council, July 11 and 25: Council hears update from Awake the Lake, audit report
• Triview Metropolitan District, July 16 and 23: Jackson Creek Parkway widening project started
• Forest Lakes Metropolitan District and Pinon Pines Metropolitan Districts 1, 2, and 3, July 1: 100% renewable water supply in use
• Woodmoor Water and Sanitation District, July 8: Board hears favorable audit report
• Tri-Lakes Wastewater Treatment Facility Joint Use Committee, July 9: Treatment facility running just as it should
• Donala Water and Sanitation District, July 18: Required permit with Pueblo County almost complete
• Monument Board of Trustees, July 1: Three commercial development sites approved; emergency well repairs OK’d
• Monument Board of Trustees, July 15: Board surprised by large special event request
• Monument Planning Commission, July 10 and July 25: Sanctuary Pointe; Conexus Business Park; Peak Equipment Solutions; Home Place Ranch
• Black Forest Fire Rescue Protection District, July 17: Training captain sworn in; staffing search continues; board chairman resigns
• Donald Wescott Fire Protection District, July 23: Search for new board member begins; firefighters promoted
• Tri-Lakes Monument Fire Protection District, July 24: Board approves "De-Gallagher" ballot initiative; 2018 audit accepted
• Monument Academy School Board, July 18: Board hears stakeholder feedback on new school
• El Paso County Planning Commission, July 2 and 16: Development at Highway 83 and Hodgen Road recommended for approval
• El Paso Board of County Commissioners, July 2, 9, and 23: Approvals for Winsome and Rollin Ridge Estates developments
• Woodmoor Improvement Association, July 24: Better public safety communication; uptick in mountain pine beetle activity
• July Weather Wrap
• Letters to Our Community
• D38 bond: Support the district now and for the future
• Welcome, Dr. KC Somers
• Transparency?
• LPSD 38: property tax effect of 2019 bond
• Between the Covers at Covered Treasures Bookstore: Try to solve the newest mysteries
• August Library Events: Regular schedule resumes
• Palmer Lake Historical Society, July 18: Now-endangered oxen pulled wagons westward
• High Altitude Nature and Gardening (HANG): Indigenous science: our backyard Russian sage
• Art Matters: Art rentals—the Netflix of art?
• Snapshots of Our Community
• Barn Dance, July 3
• Bethesda Gardens BBQ, July 3
• Pancake Breakfast, July 4
• Palmer Lake Fun Run, July 4
• Independence Day Parade
• BFFRPD Open House, July 13
• Chief Shirk’s retirement party
• Suzy Bogguss at TLCA, July 17
• Butterfly Tour, July 13
• Fox Run Park cleanup, July 13
• MVEA thanks members, July 18
• Meeting with Somers, July 19
• Forest Lakes Concert, July 26
• TLWC funds RMMA master class
• Limbach Park Quilt Show, July 20
• Run 4 Hope, July 20
• Spiderman, July 26
• Amy Helm at TLCA, July 27
• Weeds beware!
• Rosie’s car show, July 28
• Our Community Notices
• Our Community Calendar

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Vol. 19 No. 7 - July 6, 2019

• Monument Academy School Board, June 13: Public pushes back on new school; board provides project update
• Lewis-Palmer D-38 Board of Education, June 10: Board hears comments on new Monument Academy location, passes budget
• Black Forest Fire Rescue Protection District, June 19: Interim chief extended; neglected priorities and staff increases addressed
• Donald Wescott Fire Protection District, June 11: Easement agreement signed; director resigns
• Tri-Lakes Monument Fire Protection District, June 26: Joint Fleet Maintenance Facility proposed; board president Shirk announces his retirement
• Palmer Lake Town Council, June 13 and June 27: Community speaks out on future of the Fire Department
• Monument Board of Trustees, June 3: Water rate changes proposed
• Monument Planning Commission, June 12: Three major items advance to the Board of Trustees
• Monument Board of Trustees, June 17: Town water rate increases approved
• Woodmoor Water and Sanitation District, June 10: Audit report delayed
• Triview Metropolitan District, June 18: Discussions reveal efforts to expand water resources portfolio
• Academy Water and Sanitation District, June 19: Water main leak repair was difficult, dangerous
• Donala Water and Sanitation District, June 20: Creative solutions for arsenic discharge limits
• Forest View Acres Water District, June 26: Forest View Acres has big projects in the works
• El Paso County Planning Commission, June 18: Final 12 lots at former golf course development recommended for approval
• El Paso Board of County Commissioners, May 28, June 6, 11, 18, and 25: Special use requests approved but might trigger changes to county regulations
• Woodmoor Improvement Association, June 26: Board directors provide reports
• June Weather Wrap
• Letters to Our Community
• Stop wasting money
• Options facing the Palmer Lake Fire Department
• 20th anniversary reminder to continue investing in our children
• Between the Covers at Covered Treasures Bookstore: Summer reading
• July Library Events: Summer Adventure continues, with party July 31
• Palmer Lake Historical Society, June 20: A short history of U.S. ties to North Africa
• High Altitude Nature and Gardening (HANG): Indigenous science hacks for modern gardening
• Art Matters: Nature, art, and the "curated experience"
• Snapshots of Our Community
• Cirque du Monument
• Annual Kid’s Fishing Derby at Palmer Lake
• Blacksmithing at WMMI, June 5
• Coffee with town manager, June 13
• Pikes Peak Celtic Festival, June 15
• Wildland fire mitigation, June 5
• Barefoot Mile, June 8
• Bryson’s Chase tournament, June 14
• Monument celebrates 140^th, June 15
• Timberedge mitigates, June 15
• Firehouse tradition continues
• Art Hop, June 20
• Hummingbird festival, June 22
• PLHS hosts Father’s Day, June 16
• Getting Ahead class, June 19
• Soul Sacrifice at TLCA, June 21
• Concert in the Park, June 26
• Kim Richey at TLCA, June 28
• Boyce at Black Rose, June 28
• Sertoma plants flags, July 3
• Our Community Notices
• Our Community Calendar

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Vol. 19 No. 6 - June 1, 2019

Correction: The Black Forest Fire Rescue Protection District article incorrectly reports that Captain Larry Bell “... left this month.” Captain Bell is still with the District. We apologize for the error.

• Monument Academy School Board, May 9: Board speaks on rumors, modifies open records policy
• El Paso County Planning Commission, May 7: Location approved for MA school
• El Paso Board of County Commissioners, May 7, 14, and 21: Roundabout construction contract approved for intersection
• Monument Academy School Board Special Meeting, May 28: Executive Director’s contract not renewed
• Lewis-Palmer D-38 Board of Education, May 6 and 20: Board approves contracts for Lewis-Palmer High School principal and head of Financial Services
• Black Forest Fire Rescue Protection District, May 15: Board chairman becomes interim chief and is cleaning house
• Donald Wescott Fire Protection District, May 21: Southern district won’t be annexed by Colorado Springs
• Tri-Lakes Monument Fire Protection District, May 22: Standards of coverage discussed and solutions explored
• Woodmoor Water and Sanitation District, May 13: Board adds retirement option
• Palmer Lake Sanitation District, May 8: Phase I sanitary sewer upgrades approved; up to 77 taps could be issued
• Donala Water and Sanitation District, May 16: Rules and regs revisited, exceedance corrected
• Triview Metropolitan District, May 21: Town and district seek commercial expansion together
• Monument Board of Trustees, May 6: Willow Springs/Monument Creek Ranch annexation approved
• Monument Planning Commission, May 8: Planning Commission procedures and planning acronyms available on town website
• Monument Board of Trustees, May 20: Water rates discussion begins again
• Palmer Lake Town Council, May 9 and 23: Town finances cause concern; future of Fire Department debated
• Woodmoor Improvement Association, May 22: Board acts on outstanding dues, wildfire concerns
• May Weather Wrap
• Letters to Our Community
• D38--Apparently the truth hurts
• A school bond developed with community feedback
• LPHS After Prom thanks
• 2019 bond initiative for LPSD 38
• Public and their dogs need to stay away from moose
• Between the Covers at Covered Treasures Bookstore: Enjoying the great outdoors
• June Library Events: Summer Adventure begins
• Palmer Lake Historical Society, May 16: History of the singing cwboy
• High Altitude Nature and Gardening (HANG): Indian science, ponderosas, beauty and the bees
• Art Matters: Get out and about: local art events
• Snapshots of Our Community
• Black Forest Arts & Craft Guild
• Sayer Frederics
• Moose in Monument, May 3
• Seedling giveway, May 4
• Rufus Cappadocia at TLCA, May 11
• Mother's Day at Fox Run Park
• RRR urges preparedness, May 4
• Taste of TLC, May 8
• DWFPD Safety Fair, May 11
• Action photography, May 13
• County Master Plan, May 14
• Hear It Here, May 17
• Wildfire Preparedness, May 25
• Dawson aquifer wells, May 13
• Art Hop May 16
• Meadow Grass Festival, May 25
• Our Community Notices
• Our Community Calendar

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Vol. 19 No. 5 - May 4, 2019

• Monument Board of Trustees, April 1: Town manager made permanent; Monument becomes 2nd Amendment sanctuary
• El Paso County Planning Commission, April 2 and 16: Second phase of Forest Lakes development recommended for approval
• El Paso Board of County Commissioners, April 4, 9, 11, and 23: Forest Lakes Phase II rezoning and preliminary plan approved
• Citizens urged to complete county Master Plan survey
• Monument Board of Trustees, April 15: Goodwill merger approved with no financial liability to the town
• Palmer Lake Town Council, April 11 and April 25: Further study of drainage issues recommended
• Donald Wescott Fire Protection District, April 16: Equal taxation idea stalls; merger talks suspended
• Tri-Lakes Monument Fire Protection District, April 24: Meritorious service medals awarded; strategic plan pondered
• Black Forest Fire Rescue Protection District, April 5 and 24: Black Forest fire chief retires; board member steps down
• Lewis-Palmer D-38 Board of Education, April 1 and 8: Board hears growth projections, selects new superintendent
• Monument Academy School Board, April 12: Board approves 2019-20 budget
• Lewis-Palmer D-38 District Accountability Advisory Committee, April 16: Committee hears updates on communications, technology, and security
• Woodmoor Water and Sanitation District, April 8: Board to study North Monument Creek Interceptor project
• Triview Metropolitan District, April 16: District takes steps toward collaboration
• Academy Water and Sanitation District board meeting, April 17: Costly repairs needed for deep well; board hears of North Monument Creek Interceptor project
• Donala Water and Sanitation District, April 18: Regional pipeline plans encounter complications
• Woodmoor Improvement Association, April 24: Board discusses liens for unpaid dues, possible forestry grant
• April Weather Wrap
• Letters to Our Community
• What's the truth?
• Between the Covers at Covered Treasures Bookstore: Gardening and wildflower season is here!
• May Library Events: A Tea for All Ages and Kusogea Nobi Drum Ensemble among May’s programs
• Palmer Lake Historical Society, April 18: Emma Langdon was resilient advocate of miners’ rights
• Bird Watch on the Palmer Divide: American goldfinch (Spinus trista)
• High Altitude Nature and Gardening (HANG): Indigenous science, ponderosa, and local gardening
• Art Matters: Art: Secret knowledge as poetry, flower power
• Snapshots of our community
• Rescuing our forests and us from the worst of litterbugs
• Nature Center Planned, April 4
• National Poetry Month, April 13
• Fun and games at the senior center
• Acoustic Eidolon at TLCA, April 12
• Bearbotics team headed to Houston
• Preparing for Monument’s 140th
• Full Moon Hike, April 19
• Slash/Mulch kickoff, April 20
• Understanding Alzheimer’s
• Beautiful day at Palmer Lake
• BFFRPD hosts Easter Egg Hunt
• Coolest Dog contest donation
• SEW Coalition, April 22
• Spring into Vintage, April 27
• Tree planting Demo, April 26
• Our Community Notices
• Our Community Calendar

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 Vol. 19 No. 4 - April 6, 2019

• Red Cross shelter saved lives
• Tri-Lakes Monument FPD board meetings, Feb. 27, Mar. 27: Storm report and Master Plan recommendations
• Donald Wescott FPD board meeting, March 19: Bomb cyclone adds work and personnel to shifts
• Ronald Henrikson, 1940-2019: Thanks for being you, Ronald
• Black Forest Fire Rescue Protection District, March 20: Knockout blizzard, Station 2, and potential impact fees
• Academy Water and Sanitation District Board meeting, March 20: Bomb-cyclone power outage threatened district operations
• Woodmoor Water and Sanitation District, March 11: Board approves homeowners’ association’s easement request
• Forest Lakes Metropolitan District and Pinon Pines Metropolitan Districts 1, 2 and 3, March 12: Interceptor approved; water treatment plant up and running
• Triview Metropolitan District, March 19: Pipes and asphalt remain priorities
• Donala Water and Sanitation District, March 21: Commissioner visit a first; water resources prioritized
• Lewis-Palmer D-38 Board of Education, March 4 and 18: Board discusses bond issue, recognizes staff and students
• D-38 District Accountability Advisory Committee, March 12: Committee discusses budget, growth, proposed bond issue
• Monument Academy School Board, March 21: Board hears Unified Improvement Plan, approves bond underwriter
• Monument Board of Trustees, March 4: Treasurer put on leave; residency answers demanded; CSU explains regionalization idea
• Monument Board of Trustees, March 18: Permanent town manager approved
• Palmer Lake Town Council, Feb. 28 and March 28: Council considers water rate hike
• El Paso Board of County Commissioners, Feb. 28, March 12, 19, 21, and 26: Willow Springs annexation impact report accepted; Master Plan Advisory Committee appointed
• El Paso County Planning Commission, March 5 and 19: High Plains, Settlers View plans advance
• Northern El Paso County Coalition of Community Associations Inc., March 9: Neighbors cooperate, collaborate for best outcomes
• Woodmoor Improvement Association board, Feb. 27 and March 27: Board honors Vincent Elorie award winner; finishes ADA bathroom
• March Weather Wrap
• Letters to Our Community
• When will we learn?
• Rebuilding trust
• D38 censorship
• D38 needs another school
• A word of thanks
• Between the Covers at Covered Treasures Bookstore: Mary Oliver and National Poetry Month
• April Library Events: Easter crafts for kids featured in April
• Palmer Lake Historical Society, Feb. 21: Rock Island Railroad a force in the Pikes Peak area
• High Altitude Nature and Gardening (HANG): Bomb cyclone devastates America’s food
• Art Matters: "Amateur" artists a misnomer
• Snapshots of Our Community
• Visions of Light
• Palmer Divide Photographers
• Meet & Greet at PWES
• Meet & Greet at PRHS
• Strong D38 Community hosts discussion of rapid Tri-Lakes area growth
• Monument water line break repaired
• Fox Run Park group advocated
• Drumming at Yoga Pathways
• AARP Driver Safety Course
• Next solar cooking demo, Apr. 7
• Simply irresistible
• Bill Nance Memorial blood drive</li>
• OCN mailing day needs you
• Our Community Notices
• Our Community Calendar

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Vol. 19 No. 3 - March 2, 2019

• Lewis-Palmer D-38 Board of Education regular meeting, Feb. 11: Board passes bond issue resolution, hears update on superintendent search
• Triview Metropolitan District, Feb. 19: Major projects coordinating well; long-term finances forecasted
• Lewis-Palmer D-38 Board of Education special meeting and work session, Feb. 4: Board discusses use of Grace Best, potential bond issue
• District Accountability Advisory Committee, Feb. 12: Committee learns about Special Education Advisory Committee, Safe Routes to School, social emotional learning
• Monument Academy School Board, Feb. 14: Board discusses School Resource Officer availability, state legislation
• Woodmoor Water and Sanitation District, Feb. 11: Board finalizes changes to benefits platform
• Tri-Lakes Wastewater Treatment Facility Joint Use Committee, Feb. 12: Operations going well for Tri-Lakes facility
• Donala Water and Sanitation District, Feb. 21: Efforts to complete treatment project expedited
• Monument Board of Trustees, Feb. 4: Town attorney working extra hours; historic arch coming down
• Monument Planning Commission, Feb. 13: New commissioners sworn in; St. Peter parking lot zone change and replat approved
• Monument Board of Trustees, Feb. 19: Board learns election residency depends on intent
• Palmer Lake Town Council, Feb. 14: 24-hour fun run on its way back to the lake
• Palmer Lake Planning Commission, Feb. 20: Commission hears proposals for permits
• Donald Wescott Fire Protection District, Feb. 19: Merger talks decline; firefighter promotions approved
• El Paso Board of County Commissioners, Jan. 29, Feb. 5, Feb. 26: Highway 105 project and Walden Preserve development move forward
• El Paso County Planning Commission, Feb. 5 and 19: Progress on the county water and master plans; special use for Black Forest stables advances
• Woodmoor Improvement Association Annual Meeting, Jan. 28 and Reorganization, Jan. 30: Board reviews 2018, sets goals for 2019
• February Weather Wrap
• Letters to Our Community
• Awake the Lake is alive and well
• D38 bond election
• Palmer Lake Lantern Festival benefitted whom?
• Between the Covers at Covered Treasures Bookstore: Children’s and teens’ spring break suggestions
• March Library Events: Display of quilts and continuation of Winter Adult Reading
• Palmer Lake Historical Society, Feb. 21: "Poker Alice" was dealt good cards and bad
• Bird Watch on the Palmer Divide: Sandhill crane (Antigone canadensis)
• High Altitude Nature and Gardening (HANG): Indian Science: Using native wisdom can help save the world
• Art Matters: Imagination, freedom, and billion-dollar ducks
• Snapshots of Our Community
• Red kettle bell ringers collect $50K
• State of Tri-Lakes, Feb. 1
• Paws N Hooves meet & greet, Feb. 9
• MA presents assessments, Jan. 30
• Amateur radio exam, Feb. 2
• I-25 gap open house, Feb. 7
• D38 hosts 13th annual chess tournament, Feb 9
• Palmer Lake enjoys Winterfest
• RRR: Firewise Site of Excellence
• Human trafficking awareness
• Black Forest Together, Feb. 12
• Personal safety seminar, Feb. 20
• Handbell concert, Feb. 24
• Our Community Notices
• Our Community Calendar

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Vol. 19 No. 2 - February 2, 2019

• Donald Wescott Fire Protection District, Jan. 15: 2019 salary decision fallout
• Tri-Lakes Monument Fire Protection District, Jan. 23: Emergency response times rise along I-25 gap; "full staffing" achieved
• Our Community News needs your help!
• Caption correction
• Monument Board of Trustees, Jan. 7, Jan. 22: Traffic connection required for Sanctuary Pointe
• Palmer Lake Town Council, Jan. 10 and 24: Fire safety program presented
• Woodmoor Water and Sanitation District, Jan. 14: Board moves forward with four-day work week
• Triview Metropolitan District, Jan. 15: Water and wastewater ideas advanced
• Donala Water and Sanitation District, Jan. 17: Future brightens for long-term renewable water contracts
• Wagons West Metropolitan District, Jan. 24: New metro district holds first meeting
• Lewis-Palmer D-38 Board of Education Special Meeting and Work Session, Jan. 7: Board discusses superintendent search, potential bond issue, statement about rehab facility
• Monument Academy School Board, Jan. 10: Board hears plans for assessment season, Saxon math replacement
• Lewis-Palmer D-38 Board of Education Regular Meeting, Jan. 15: Board recognizes district achievements, hears Monument Academy Annual Operations Report
• Lewis-Palmer D-38 District Accountability Advisory Committee, Jan. 15: Committee hears about portable classrooms, alternative education opportunities
• El Paso Board of County Commissioners, Jan. 8, 10, 15, 17, and 22: New commissioners sworn in; I-25 gap funding progresses
• Northern El Paso County Coalition of Community Associations, Jan. 19: County’s Water Master Plan presented
• January Weather Wrap
• Letters to Our Community
• Publisher’s note
• Isolating the effect of school quality on property values
• Neighbors band together to save open space
• Commissioner Williams reaches out
• Between the Covers at Covered Treasures Bookstore: Biographies, autobiographies, memoirs
• February Library Events: Enjoy Valentine crafts and discussions at the library
• Palmer Lake Historical Society, Jan. 17: At annual meeting, group looks back
• Bird Watch on the Palmer Divide: Bald eagle (Haliaeetus leucocephalus)
• High Altitude Nature and Gardening (HANG): Earth: It’s rescued by lazy gardening
• Art Matters: The extraordinary benefits of living with art
• Snapshots of Our Community
• Not just kids enjoy snow days
• WMMI Geo Day, Jan. 5
• Strong D38 Community, Jan. 17
• Crime and safety, Jan. 16
• Pinewood Derby, Jan. 26
• Rocky Mountain Music Alliance Concert, Jan. 19
• CERT teaches people how to be prepared and helpful in emergencies
• Our Community Notices
• Our Community Calendar

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Vol. 19 No. 1 - January 5, 2019

• Lewis-Palmer D-38 Board of Education Special Meeting and Work Session, Dec. 3: Board discusses short-term solutions to growth; Superintendent to retire
• El Paso Board of County Commissioners, Nov. 29, Dec. 4, 11, 18, and 20: Neighbors’ appeal against rehabilitation facility denied
• El Paso County Planning Commission, Dec. 4 and 18: Water master plan approved
• Lewis-Palmer School District 38 District Accountability Advisory Committee, Nov. 27: Committee discusses election results, urges new vote in 2019
• D-38 Deliberates: Centralized vs. site-based locations for preschool, Dec. 5: Community members and staff discuss preschool growth
• Lewis-Palmer School District 38 Board of Education, Dec.18: Board acts on near-term growth solutions, hears security update, discusses future bond issue
• Donald Wescott Fire Protection District, Dec. 4: 2019 budget changed then approved, including some raises
• Tri-Lakes Monument Fire Protection District, Dec. 5: Front Range fire risk a stark reality; another new engine, pay raises in budget
• Monument Board of Trustees, Dec. 3: Town attorney and seventh trustee sworn in; interim town manager named
• Monument Planning Commission, Dec. 12: Delaney to step down; Sanctuary Pointe Filing 5 Final Plat approved
• Monument Board of Trustees, Dec. 17: Interim town manager starts work
• Palmer Lake Town Council, Dec. 13: Bridge project receives extension
• Forest Lakes Metropolitan District and Pinon Pines Metro Districts 1, 2, and 3, Dec. 3: 2019 budgets approved; O&M costs climbing as expected
• Donala Water and Sanitation District, Dec. 6: 2019 budget approved; water rates up 4 percent, wastewater up $2 per month
• Woodmoor Water and Sanitation District, Dec.10: Board wraps up work on 2019 rates and budget
• Tri-Lakes Wastewater Treatment Facility Joint Use Committee, Dec. 11: Biosolids unexpectedly high for Palmer Lake Sanitation
• Triview Metropolitan District, Dec. 11: District commits to roads and North Monument Creek Interceptor
• Woodmoor Improvement Association Board of Directors, Nov. 28 and Dec. 19: Board hears updates on Walters Open Space, rehab facility, and The Beach
• December Weather Wrap
• Letters to Our Community
• Don’t be fooled by deceptive "solution"
• Between the Covers at Covered Treasures Bookstore: Kicking off the new year right
• January Library Events: Start the new year with a new activity
• Bird Watch on the Palmer Divide: Spotted towhee (Pipilo maculatus)
• High Altitude Nature and Gardening (HANG): Forest bathing, space travel, and indoor air
• Art Matters: Why tech leaders have their kids in artful pursuits
• Snapshots of Our Community
• Kids come first for first responders
• Caption correction
• Sertoma donates to officer’s family
• Community supports kettles
• Hugs & high-fives at Limbach Park
• Talking with teens, Dec. 4
• Dakota Blonde at TLCA, Dec. 14
• Wreaths Across America, Dec. 15
• Keaggy wows TLCA audience, Dec. 7
• Fa La La La La! Dec. 16
• Kiwanis shares magic of reading
• Yule Log Hunt, Dec. 16
• Santa and Wescott deliver cheer
• TreeCycle accepting trees
• Our Community Notices
• Our Community Calendar
• GOVERNMENTAL BODIES
• WEEKLY & MONTHLY EVENTS
• SPECIAL EVENTS

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Vol. 18 No. 12 - December 1, 2018

• Monument Sanitation District, Nov. 21: District endorses CSU wastewater connection option
• Lewis-Palmer D-38 Board of Education, Nov. 13: Board considers actions after voters reject ballot measures
• Nov. 6 Election Local Results
• Monument Academy School Board, Nov 8: Board sees robot demo, revises 2018-19 budget
• Woodmoor Water and Sanitation District, Nov. 12: Board mulls strategy for water and sewer rates
• Triview Metropolitan District, Nov. 13: Priority to connect with CSU wastewater pipeline grows
• Palmer Lake Sanitation District, Nov. 14: Sewer taps suspended; sewer collection system capacity evaluated
• Monument Board of Trustees, Nov. 5: Three trustees avoid special board meeting
• Monument Planning Commission, November 14: New Planning Commission members sworn in; three development plans approved
• Monument Board of Trustees, Nov 19: Still no attorney for the town
• Palmer Lake Town Council, November 8: Council focuses on budgets for 2018 and 2019
• Donald Wescott Fire Protection District, Nov. 14: Smaller 2019 pay boosts proposed; subdistrict dissolution considered
• Tri-Lakes Monument Fire Protection District, Nov.14: 2019 budget hearing; negotiations with union approved
• El Paso Board of County Commissioners, Oct. 30, Nov.6, 13, and 15: Approval for Mountain Springs Recovery site development plan; updated water and county master plans progress
• Homebuilder revises plan for Forest Lakes development
• Northern El Paso County Coalition of Homeowners Associations, Nov. 17: Transportation concerns rise as area grows
• November Weather Wrap
• Between the Covers at Covered Treasures Bookstore: The Holiday Magic of Books
• December Library Events: Enjoy some seasonal crafts and conversation at the library
• Palmer Lake Historical Society, November 15: History series features Colorado’s only WWI flying ace
• Bird Watch on the Palmer Divide: Black-capped Chickadee
• High Altitude Nature and Gardening (HANG): Plants help improve health, indoors and outdoors
• Art Matters: Holidays, art, and saving lives
• Snapshots of Our Community
• Star's twinkle competes with bitter temps
• RRR earns NFPA certification
• Kiwanis presents grant to LPMS
• Historic Monument Merchants Holiday Open House, Nov. 3
• John Adams at TLCA, Nov. 9
• AARP fills stockings, Nov. 14
• Community involvement
• Veterans Day at MA, Nov. 9
• Collecting Monument history
• Fraser and Haas at TLCA, Nov. 16
• Community pitches in
• Palmer Lake Lantern Festival
• Child trafficking widespread
• Our Community Notices
• Our Community Calendar

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Vol. 18 No. 11 - November 3, 2018

• Monument Board of Trustees, Oct. 1: Argument erupts over interim town manager negotiations; Willow Springs/Monument Creek Ranch annexation hold
• Palmer Lake Town Council, Oct. 10 and 25: No new sewer or water taps
• A Fond Farewell
• Monument Board of Trustees, Oct. 15: Annexation of Willow Springs/Monument Creek Ranch nixed
• Donald Wescott Fire Protection District, Oct. 16: 2019 budget may include 52% pay boost
• Tri-Lakes Monument Fire Protection District, Oct. 24: Union frustrated over postponement of collective bargaining agreement discussion
• Woodmoor Water and Sanitation District, Oct. 8: Rehab center requests supplemental water service
• Tri-Lakes Wastewater Treatment Facility Joint Use Committee, Sept. 11 and Oct. 9: Planning for 2019; more time allowed for big decisions
• Triview Metropolitan District, Oct. 9: Bond resolution, water shares purchase approved
• Donala Water and Sanitation District, Oct. 18: Board evaluates budget draft; rate increase approved
• District 38 Accountability Advisory Committee, Oct. 9: Committee hears superintendent’s annual report, discusses election
• Monument Academy School Board, Oct. 10: Board hears about increased counseling, agreement with D38 on bond use
• Lewis-Palmer D-38 Board of Education, Oct. 15: Board hears about preschool services, recognizes students and Hall of Fame honorees
• El Paso Board of County Commissioners, Oct. 2, 9, and 11: License granted for western interceptor project
• Northern El Paso County Coalition of Homeowners Associations, Sept. 8: Crime prevention coordinator urges awareness
• Woodmoor Improvement Association Board of Directors, Oct. 25: Board approves Barn addition for Woodmoor Public Safety
• October Weather Wrap
• Letters to Our Community
• Publisher's Note
• Who does Our Community News really represent?
• Yes on 4A and 4B
• 4A and 4B are smart, sensible solutions for our community
• A measured "no" on 4A and 4B
• Invest in our community's future
• For the kids? D38's 4B construction project is full of impropriety
• Is the Golden Rule dead in D38?
• Please vote no on Palmer Lake measure 2B
• Vote yes on 2B
• Do not turn Tri-Lakes into another "Rehab Riviera"
• Thanks to the "Saturday Ladies"
• Between the Covers at Covered Treasures Bookstore: Fall into great books
• November Library Events: Experience Cool Science and teen book craft
• Palmer Lake Historical Society, October 18: Film honors local WWII hero
• Bird Watch on the Palmer Divide: Great horned owl (Bubo virginianus)
• High Altitude Nature and Gardening (HANG): Leafy mulch, early potting, and indoor blooms
• Art Matters: An artist’s small business turns into big business
• Snapshots of Our Community
• Community stands together
• RMMA concert, Sep. 1
• Mountain Biking Day, Oct. 6
• Senior Center art show, Oct. 7
• TLCA honors Ward, Sep. 22
• PLAG Fair, Oct. 5
• Palmer Lake .5K, Oct. 7
• WMMI Harvest Festival, Oct. 6
• Candidate forum, Oct. 8
• WØTLM Tech Day, Oct. 13
• Wescott Safety Fair, Oct. 13
• Empty Bowl, Oct. 10
• BBQ for first responders, Oct, 13
• Spirit Tree Tour, Oct 13
• MSR Center Meeting, Oct. 16
• Trunk or Treat, Oct. 26
• Creepy Crawl, Oct. 27
• Gleneagle Renovation Project
• Benet Hill Concert, Oct. 28
• Our Community Notices
• Our Community Calendar

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Vol. 18 No. 10 - October 6, 2018

• Monument Academy School Board, Sept. 13: Board supports D38 bond and MLO ballot measures
• Monument candidate statements
• District Accountability Advisory Committee’s Committee for Political Action Forum, Sep. 13: D38 officials provide ballot information
• Lewis-Palmer D-38 Board of Education special meeting, Sept. 10: Board approves intent to spend proceeds of proposed bond and MLO measures
• Lewis-Palmer D-38 Board of Education, Sept. 17 and 27: Board hears from construction firm for new elementary, discusses Amendment 73
• Monument Board of Trustees, Sept. 4: Interim town manager finalist selected
• Monument Planning Commission, Sept. 12: Sanctuary Pointe filing, Monument Creek Ranch annexation advance
• Monument Board of Trustees, Sept. 17: Loan for well upgrade project fails; still no interim manager
• Palmer Lake Town Council, Sept. 13 and 27: Water issues occupy council
• Donald Wescott Fire Protection District, Sept. 18: Accepted 2018 budget draws concerns
• Tri-Lakes Monument Fire Protection District, Sept. 26: Board receives advice on collective bargaining; 2019 budget presented
• Forest Lakes Metropolitan District and Pinon Pines Metro Districts 1, 2, and 3, Sept. 6: Privacy policy approved; residents learn about district structure
• Woodmoor Water and Sanitation District, Sept. 10 : Board updates retirement plan, awards contract
• Triview Metropolitan District, Sept. 11: Western interceptor contract awarded; revocable license supersedes easement
• Donala Water and Sanitation District, Sept. 20: WMMI and reserve fund use approved; regulatory compliance discussed
• El Paso Board of County Commissioners, Aug. 28 and Sept. 4 and 11: 80 Flying Horse North homes approved despite opposition
• Woodmoor Improvement Association Board of Directors, Sept. 26: Board hears about D38 bond and MLO, update from Walters "Open Space" group
• September Weather Wrap
• Letters to Our Community
• Vote yes on Palmer Lake 2B
• Vote no on 4B
• Supporting the D38 bond and MLO as an empty nester
• It’s all about the kids
• Actions speak louder ...
• Support our great schools
• Support Ballot Issues 4A and 4B
• Funding lag requiring bond for new school in D38
• Residential treatment center saved my life
• It’s not a done deal
• Between the Covers at Covered Treasures Bookstore: New nonfiction books
• October Library Events: October events feature Halloween and art themes
• Palmer Lake Historical Society, September 20: Harvey Girls brought hospitality to West
• High Altitude Nature and Gardening (HANG): Ponderosa pine needles: free champions, lazy gardening victory
• Art Matters: National Arts Month has a big local buzz, too
• Snapshots of Our Community
• Digging into safer, more efficient travel
• Monu-Palooza, Sep. 2
• Bill Nance Blood Drive, Sep. 4
• Barefoot Mile, Sep. 8
• Fill the Boot, Sep. 3
• Monochrome photo show, Sep. 7
• WMMI Family Day, Sep. 8
• Sep. 11 attacks remembered
• Walters Open Space meeting
• Front Range Open Studios
• VFW Family Freedom Festival
• Rightsizing, Sep. 15
• Bines and Brews Hopfest, Sep. 15
• Art Hop, Sep. 20
• TLMFPD Open House, Sep. 20
• Iron Pour, Sep. 29
• WMMI Ranch House Renovation
• Our Community Notices
• Our Community Calendar

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 Vol. 18 No. - September 1, 2018

• Tolled express lane certain
• Fierce opposition to proposed rehab facility at former Ramada Inn site
• Lewis-Palmer D38 Board of Education Special Meeting, Aug. 23: "Win-win" school district bond ballot language approved
• Lewis-Palmer D-38 Board of Education Special Meeting, Aug. 6: Monument Academy wants funds added to bond issue
• Monument Academy School Board, Aug. 9: Board discusses preparations for the new year, grant application for new facility
• Lewis-Palmer D-38 Board of Education, Aug. 20: Discussion of bond issue continues
• Monument Board of Trustees, Aug. 6: Town still lacks code enforcement officer
• Monument Planning Commission, Aug. 8: Drive-through restaurant, addition to body shop approved
• Monument Board of Trustees Special Meeting, Aug. 13: Board conducts interviews for interim town manager
• Monument Board of Trustees, Aug. 20: Board questions water projects
• Monument Board of Trustees Special Meeting, Aug. 27: Board whittles interim town manager finalists to three
• Palmer Lake Town Council, Aug. 9 and 23: Recreational marijuana headed for the ballot again
• Woodmoor Water and Sanitation District, Aug. 13: Mid-year review of budget detailed; water service request approved
• Tri-Lakes Wastewater Treatment Facility Joint Use Committee, Aug. 14: Source of higher biosolids levels still not identified
• Triview Metropolitan District, Aug. 14: District continues to prepare for water, wastewater needs
• Donald Wescott Fire Protection District, Aug. 21: "De-Gallagherization" resolution fails
• Tri-Lakes Monument Fire Protection District, Aug. 22: Merger talks with Wescott continue; collective bargaining agreement pursued
• El Paso Board of County Commissioners, Aug. 7, 21: Gleneagle golf course redevelopment moves forward
• Woodmoor Improvement Association Board of Directors, Aug 22: Owners speak on Walters property, Brookmoor Estates gate, and Hidden Pond
• August Weather Wrap
• Letters to Our Community
• Strong schools equal strong property values
• Hail and climate change
• Concerns regarding local eldercare facility
• Safety and security?
• Save the character of our community
• Stronger security needed in D38
• Between the Covers at Covered Treasures Bookstore: Celebrating women authors
• September Library Events: Fall brings All Pikes Peak Reads, return of some favorites
• Palmer Lake Historical Society, July 19: Past becomes present at Chautauqua
• Bird Watch on the Palmer Divide: Nuthatches help maintain a healthy forest
• High Altitude Nature and Gardening (HANG): Garden’s success shows value of "lazy" methods
• Art Matters: Beauty in black and white from elegant stone-age art
• Snapshots of our Community
• Monument sidewalks
• Sertoma Golf Benefit, Aug. 13
• Northern El Paso County information shared at Parks Party, Aug. 16
• Art Hop, Aug. 16
• Palmer Lake Chipping, Aug. 19
• Pancakes for Purpose, Aug. 18
• Pickin’ on the Divide, Aug. 18
• Boxmasters at TLCA, Aug. 21
• Sawyer Fredericks, Aug. 24
• WMMI demo day, Aug. 25
• Our Community Notices
• Our Community Calendar

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Vol. 18 No. - August 4, 2018

• Triview Metropolitan District, July 10: Water and wastewater rate increases approved
• Donald Wescott Fire Protection District, July 17: Directors explore "de-Gallagherizing," combining districts
• Tri-Lakes Monument Fire Protection District, July 25: Board forms committee to keep in touch with Wescott
• Tri-Lakes Wastewater Treatment Facility Joint Use meeting, July 10: Love and Skrdlant earn certifications
• Woodmoor Water and Sanitation District, July 9: Strategy for ponds considered; Woodmoor Ranch trip planned
• Donala Water and Sanitation District, July 19: New rates proposed for large commercial customers
• Palmer Lake Town Council, July 12 and 26: Well fails; council declares water emergency
• Monument Planning Commission, July 11: Wagons West development, Conexus business park plan recommended for approval
• Monument Board of Trustees, July 16: Police chief lists needs for growing town: "We are not Mayberry"
• Monument Board of Trustees special meeting, July30: Board asks for extension in approving 2017 audit
• Monument Academy School Board, July 18: New board elects officers, makes committee assignments
• El Paso Board of County Commissioners, July 3, 10, 24,and 31: Final Forest Lakes plat approved; potential ballot question discussed
• El Paso County Planning Commission, July 17: Flying Horse North and Forest Lakes development plans advance
• Woodmoor Improvement Association Board of Directors, July 25: Board discusses Hidden Pond, Brookmoor Estates, plan for rehab center at Ramada Inn
• July Weather Wrap
• Letters to Our Community
• Anonymous letter criticized
• The ball is in your court
• Keep D38 strong!
• Between the Covers at Covered Treasures Bookstore: 25th birthday party washed away!
• August Library Events: Summer reading program closes with a party
• Palmer Lake Historical Society, July 19: Presentation honors Woody Guthrie
• High Altitude Nature and Gardening (HANG): Forests and gardening: wonderful for your brain, love life, and fitness
• Art Matters: Authenticity
• Snapshots of our community
• 2018 Forest Lakes Concert Series
• Wirewood Station Concert
• Barn Dance, July 3
• July 4 Festivities
• Pancake Breakfast
• Palmer Lake Fun Run
• Children's Parade, July 4
• Main Parade
• NEPCO hears from D38, July 14
• Rosie's Diner Car Show
• Art Hop, July 19
• Downtown revitalization
• Santa in Monument
• Our Community Notices
• Our Community Calendar

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 Vol. 18 No. 7 - July 7, 2018

• Monument Board of Trustees, June 4: Town manager fired in unanimous vote
• Palmer Lake Town Council, June 14: Mayor announces effort to consolidate fire departments
• Monument Board of Trustees, June 13, 18, and 21: Board gets advice on town manager selection process
• Town of Monument press release, June 22: Lowe "resolution" approved
• Monument Planning Commission, June 13: Sanctuary Pointe plat changes approved
• Donald Wescott Fire Protection District, June 19: Audit report "clean"; budget session planned
• Tri-Lakes Monument Fire Protection District, June 27: Palmer Lake asks district to explore serving town; Wescott and TLMFPD will investigate options
• Lewis-Palmer D-38 Board of Education, June 18: Board installs new member, finalizes funding requests for November ballot
• Monument Academy School Board, June 21: Parents speak on controversial new hire
• Forest Lakes Metropolitan District and Pinon Pines Metro Districts 1, 2, and 3, June 4: Differences between Forest Lakes and Pinon Pines Metro Districts discussed
• Tri-Lakes Wastewater Treatment Facility Joint Use Committee, June 12: Education for customers; wins at rulemaking hearing
• Triview Metropolitan District, June 12:  District seeks collaboration on water, wastewater
• Woodmoor Water and Sanitation District, June 18: Board vacancy filled; retirement plan and 2017 audit addressed
• Donala Water and Sanitation District, June 28: Three capital construction contracts awarded
• Pinon Pines Metropolitan District 1, July 2: Forest Lakes residents asked to reduce irrigation
• El Paso Board of County Commissioners May 29, June 7, 12,and 28: New Academy Village lot approved; I-25 toll opposed
• Woodmoor Improvement Association Board of Directors, June 27: Board agrees to reconsider Hidden Pond, survey community
• June Weather Wrap
• Letters to Our Community
• D38 empire building at our expense
• I vote for Ross Meyer
• CU regent candidate Wolusky talks tuition
• Between the Covers at Covered Treasures Bookstore: Celebrate25 years!
• July Library Events: Summer Adventure party set for July 20
• Palmer Lake Historical Society: Ice cream social, history program mark June activities
• Bird Watch on the Palmer Divide: Great egret
• High Altitude Nature and Gardening (HANG): Ponderosa pine needle compost; mid-summer garden tips
• Art Matters: Confessions of topophilia
• Snapshots of Our Community
• Founders of Tri-Lakes Cares honored
• Civilian Police Academy, May 29
• Cirque du Monument, June 2
• PLAG at TLCA
• Concerts in the Park
• Fishing Derby, June 2
• Fireworks fundraiser, June 2
• Watkins bike racks dedicated
• 5-year remembrance, June 10
• Value-up Tournament, June 15
• Over $17,000 raised for Shield 616
• Tillis at TLCA, June 15
• Tri-Lakes Views celebrates
• Al-Saadi at TLCA, June 22
• TLMA Concert, July 1
• Flags in Gleneagle for July 4
• Barn dance, July 3
• Parade, July 4
• Our Community Notices
• Our Community Calendar