Edward Gutierrez

This document outlines the master plan designs for Union Avenue and Main Street in Downtown Pueblo, initiated by The City of Pueblo and Pueblo County. The plan aims to enhance streetscapes, improve economic development, support placemaking, and create multi-modal options for all users. Key focus areas include pedestrian access, parking, streetscape improvements, walkability, bikeability, complete streets, and traffic flow, supported by 2016 Pueblo County 1-A funds.

This episode of the Mayor's Mixtape covered outcomes from the recent city council meeting. Key discussions included welcoming the new HR director, Bella Trillo. The council approved receiving a grant from the PBLO Urban Renewal Authority for lighting and other upgrades at Benedict Park, which is anticipated to be completed early next year. Two contracts were approved for the health department and HPPPR, following up on budget approvals from the fall. The primary focus was the update to the criteria ordinance for the half-cent sales tax, which passed 5 to 2. This ordinance expands the criteria for incentivizing economic development beyond just primary jobs to include economic leakage, economic catalysts (like large sales tax drivers), and placemaking amenities. Clarification was provided that the City Council retains sole authority over this funding, not the Mayor or PBLO, and that this action extends the existing tax, which was approved by voters, through 2025, with no new tax being imposed.

The work session began with recognition of the PBLO Stylers Boxing Club Incorporated and its leadership, highlighting several young boxers and their upcoming national competitions. Following this, the Mayor provided city updates, which included thanking first responders for their coordinated response to a fatal I25 accident and announcing an upcoming EOC training exercise for the city council. Legislative updates were provided regarding opposition to Senate Bill 70, which places restrictions on ALPR technology, and support for House Bill 1071, which relates to Automated Vehicle Identification Systems on interstate highways. Additionally, the council was briefed on House Bill 1114 concerning statewide caps on minimum lot sizes for single-family homes, which raises concerns about local control. Finally, an update was given on a draft transit bill that would mandate a partner pass program for low-income riders without a dedicated funding source. The council requested more information on Senate Bill 26112 regarding court actions for failure to appear.

The work session commenced with city updates, including the official presentation of the State of the City communication. The primary discussion focused on proposed state legislation related to privacy and surveillance tools. Representatives discussed four specific bills: House Bill 1071, which would authorize local governments to use automated vehicle identification systems on interstate highways; Senate Bill 71, which establishes a statewide regulatory framework for surveillance technologies; Senate Bill 70, which limits governmental access to historical location information; and House Bill 1037, which prohibits the government purchase of personal data from third parties. The presenters requested the council take positions of support for HB 1071 and opposition for the other three bills. The council also heard an introductory presentation from the Executive Director of the Colorado Municipal League regarding municipal structure and best practices.

The work session involved procedural changes, including amending the agenda to accommodate lobbyists and rescheduling City updates. Updates provided covered COVID-19 statistics and ARPA fund expenditures for a trash program ($193,620.62 spent of $1 million) and team cleanup work ($75,399 spent of $300,000). Discussion also centered on a proposed resolution supporting essential pay for Union employees during the pandemic peak (amounting to over $167,000). Furthermore, the session detailed legislative lobbying efforts concerning House Bill 1294 (the air bill) and a land use bill, both of which the City opposed due to potential infringement on local authority, despite amendments. A significant portion of the session was dedicated to briefing the council on a new property tax bill introduced by the Governor, detailing its proposed changes regarding residential assessment rates, property value reductions, and growth caps, as well as providing talking points for council members to address constituent inquiries. The session concluded with a presentation regarding the marijuana excise tax, which was interrupted by disruptive commentary from an attendee.