Cady Jess

The council meeting commenced with the pledge of allegiance and roll call. Key discussions included a public comment regarding the installation of lights at the Fort Morgan skatepark due to safety concerns in winter months. The council approved the minutes from the December 16th, 2025 regular meeting. A resolution was unanimously approved concerning proposed increases to water and wastewater rates, based on a 2024 rate study, which follows a five-year implementation plan. The council also held the first reading of an ordinance to amend the land use code regarding kennels, pet daycare, overnight pet boarding, and small animal grooming, setting a public hearing for January 20th. Official reports covered updates on the timeline for the swimming pool construction, which is expected to take approximately two years, and the resolution of driveway entrance designs for a new commercial development that were previously held up by C-DOT jurisdiction. It was also noted that the police department received new tasers requiring updated staff training, and introductions for new employees will occur at the next meeting. Finally, upcoming bids for electrical substation materials and a street sweeper were announced, along with dates for historic preservation and senior center advisory board meetings, and a special reorganization meeting.

The regular City Council meeting addressed several items, including citizen concerns regarding E-bike usage on nature trails and a call for a new ordinance. The Council unanimously approved appointments to the Library Advisory Board. A resolution was passed to approve the first amendment to the development agreement extension with Fort Morgan Property, allowing for a new design and setting future groundbreaking dates. The Council awarded bids for the Fort Morgan Municipal Airport Apron Expansion Project to Concrete Concepts dba Pyramid Construction and approved a contract for the Fixed Based Operator services to Michael Bohn -- Fort Morgan Aviation Services, LLC. Bids were approved for the 2025 Ensign Street Storm Sewer Improvements, contracting SMH West LLC for construction and Fortiline Waterworks for pipe purchase. Approval was granted for the purchase of six 64-niche columbarium units for Serenity Falls, and the purchase of two upfitted police pursuit vehicles. Two ordinances received their second reading and public hearing: Ordinance No. 1326, enacting a 1% sales tax increase approved by voters, and Ordinance No. 1327, prohibiting the use of graywater. The Consent Agenda, including disbursements, payroll, and previous minutes approval, was unanimously passed. The meeting concluded with an Executive Session to discuss the evaluation of the Police Chief.

The City Council meeting included a presentation recognizing the Business of the Month, Shirley Ann's Small Gatherings & Fine Gifts, LLC. Discussions and actions included approving a fire pension increase, accepting a bid for a new street department dump/plow truck, and approving an agreement for the schematic design of a new aquatic facility. The council also approved a purchasing collective for a roof replacement, amendments to development agreements, and an interim agreement amendment related to water supply. Additionally, a resolution concerning electric vehicle charging was approved, along with the first reading of ordinances related to tax collection and graywater use. A public hearing was held regarding feral cat protocols, but a related ordinance amendment was disapproved. The council also discussed the reopening of a pedestrian tunnel and the Police Department's strategic plan, and they convened in an executive session regarding the Northen Integrated Supply Project.

The City Council meeting included a public hearing and approval for a new Hotel & Restaurant Liquor License for Victor's Sushi 3, LLC, and a public hearing and approval on a plat amendment for Legacy Townhomes at CentrePointe. Bids were reviewed and approved for a Comprehensive Plan Update from RICK Engineering and for Audit Services from Clinger Hagerman. The council also held a public hearing and approved the 2026 Budget Calendar and discussed local landmark status for the Sutton Building. Further discussions included amending municipal codes regarding weed/nuisance violations and feral cat protocols, as well as traffic enforcement and the use of golf carts on city streets. The meeting concluded with a consent agenda, reports from officials and staff, and announcements.

The City Council meeting included discussions and resolutions regarding a development agreement with NCHD, a DOLA grant application for regional housing needs assessment, and the sale of real property in Nelson's Subdivision. Public hearings were held for annexing and zoning the Enclave A and B properties, addressing concerns from property owners. A presentation was given on the Humane Society architectural assessment and cost analysis. The council also discussed holiday lights, sales tax trends, and efforts to address homelessness.