Note: All OCN articles published since the paper started in
June 2001 are posted on this web site. Generally, only articles from the
past year or two are included in the tables of links below.
Please use OCN's search function at the top right of each page to find
all the articles on a topic.
Academy School District 20
The Academy Water and Sanitation District serves the south portion of the Tri-Lakes area and the northwest section of Colorado Springs.
Academy Water and Sanitation District
The Academy Water and Sanitation District serves approximately 300 homes east
of the Donala Water and Sanitation District. It has been proposed that the Academy district be merged into the Donala district. For more on the topic...
- Wastewater operations will be joined with Donala: election moved to 2016
- Academy Water and Sanitation District, Aug. 20: Timeline of tasks shows work to be done before 2018 deadline
- Academy Water and Sanitation District, Feb. 18:
District focused on funding, IGA details as connection plans continue
- Academy Water and Sanitation District, June 16: Connection plans continue on track
- Academy Water and Sanitation District, July 28: Board approves IGA, other next steps in wastewater project
- Academy Water and Sanitation District, Oct. 27: May election will bring effort to eliminate TABOR limitations
- Academy Water and Sanitation District, Jan. 20: Planning for crucial 2016 TABOR election continues
- Academy Water and Sanitation District, Feb. 17: Sewer rates raised; voters could reduce the amount of future increases
- Academy Water and Sanitation District, May 18:
TABOR restriction removed for district
- Academy Water and Sanitation District, Oct. 18:
Sewer fees and water rates will increase for different reasons
- Academy Water and Sanitation District Board meeting, March 20: Bomb-cyclone power outage threatened district operations
- Academy Water and Sanitation District board meeting, April 17:
Costly repairs needed for deep well; board hears of North Monument Creek Interceptor project
- Academy Water and Sanitation District, June 19:
Water main leak repair was difficult, dangerous
OCN carries a series of articles on local arts and crafts and performing arts...
- Snapshots: Fox Farm History, Apr. 24
- Art Matters: 2021: Artful walks in our community
- Snapshots: Downtown Monument Art Hop is back!
- Snapshots: Black Forest Spring Show returns
- Snapshots: LPMS concert, May 12
- Art Matters: Space travel, #dearMoon project, Anthropocene-era art
- Art Matters: Art is a necessary life resource
- Snapshots: Art Hop, July 15
- Snapshots: PLAG Show at TLCA, July 16
- Snapshots: Adams at TLCA, July 17
- Art Matters: Art: Our rich history of ideas made visible
- Snapshots: Dion Pride at TLCA, Aug. 7
- Snapshots: Chasqui at TLCA, Aug. 14
- Snapshots: Art Hop, Aug. 19
- Snapshots: Phil Keaggy at TLCA, Sept. 11
- Snapshots: The Last Art Hop of 2021, Sept. 16
- Art Matters: Our local, artful life
- Snapshots: Bogguss at TLCA, Sept. 23
- Snapshots: Annual Monu-Palooza draws hundreds, Sept. 4
- Art Matters: National artists Sunday
- Art Matters: Million-dollar doodles
- Snapshots: Matlida The Musical, Nov. 5-7
- Snapshots: TLCA benefit for PLPD, Nov. 13
- Art Matters: Artists have a vision they share with others
- Art Matters: How art is science, science is art
- Snapshots: Furay at TLCA, Jan. 29
- Art Matters: The transformative impact of public art
- Snapshots: John Schneider at TLCA, Feb. 12
- Art Matters: Art, imagination, and co-creating our future
- Snapshots: Moors & McCumber, Mar. 12
- Snapshots: St. Patrick’s Day at PPBC, Mar. 12
- Art Matters: Local-to-global art ecosystems in our own backyards
- Snapshots: DCC presents Spamalot, Apr. 6-9
- Snapshots: DCC HS band at festival, Apr. 19
- Snapshots: Claude Bourbon at TLCA, Apr. 30
- Snapshots: Black Forest Arts & Crafts, May 1
- Snapshots: “Beatles” Reunion at TLCA, Apr. 22
- Art Matters: Art on local summer evenings: Monument Art Hop
- Snapshots: Paul Overstreet at TLCA, May 7
- Snapshots: Meadowgrass, May 27-29
- Art Matters:
Public art: a key for modern community development
- Snapshots: Evans at Art Hop, June 16
- Art Matters: Art and mindfulness: more friends, fewer pills
- Snapshots: Art Hop at Jefferson Studios
- Art Matters: Art, mindfulness, and focus
- Snapshots: Burney Sisters at TLCA, Aug. 20
- Snapshots: Fox Run Park Concert, Aug. 18
- Snapshots: Black Forest Concert, Aug. 18
- Art Matters: Sunlight for mood, performance, and health
- Snapshots: Furay at TLCA, Sept. 17
- Snapshots: Last 2022 ArtHop, Sept. 15
- Snapshots: Shimek Retrospective, Sept. 2
- Snapshots: Monu-Palooza, Sept. 4
- Art Matters: What is the value of art—and who decides?
- Snapshots: John Adams at TLCA, Oct. 29
- Art Matters: How to buy real art, within any budget
- Snapshots: Monument Window Art, Nov. 20
- Snapshots: Hazel Miller at TLCA, Nov. 12
- Snapshots: Black Forest Arts & Crafts Fall Show
- Snapshots: DCC Fall Band Concert, Nov. 10
- Art Matters: Who buys art and why?
- Snapshots: David Arkenstone and Friends at TLCA, Dec. 9
- Art Matters: Valentines and the fates of flirts
- Snapshots: Kim Richey at TLCA, Jan. 21
- Snapshots: Author Kevin Anderson at TLCA, Jan. 14
- Snapshots: Gary Weston's science fiction art at TLCA, Jan. 14
- Art Matters: Artists know how to share the visible and the invisible
- Art Matters: Paper mache: a high art with a long history
- Snapshots: Moors and McCumber at TLCA
- Snapshots: The Stickmen at the TLCA, Mar. 1
- Snapshots: Stars of Tomorrow Talent Show
- Snapshots: Eversole wins All-State honors
- Art Matters: Contemporary art prints and artist handmade books
- Snapshots: Eric Elison at TLCA
- Snapshots: DCC Concert
Art Matters: Art spaces for our creative spirit
Snapshots: Arthop, May 18
Snapshots: Claude Bourbon at TLCA, May 19
Baptist Road Rural Transportation Authority
Growth along Baptist Road has led to greatly increased traffic. The Baptist
Road Rural Transportation Authority (BRRTA) was formed to coordinate changes to Baptist
Road to help address the resulting hazardous conditions and congestion. For more
on this topic...
- Black Forest Fire/Rescue Protection District, Nov. 18: Residents petition for exclusion; proposed 2021 budget gets public hearing
- Black Forest Fire/Rescue Protection District, Dec. 9: 2021 budget approved
- Black Forest Fire/Rescue Protection District, Jan. 20: Wildfire risk; exclusion/inclusion policy; COVID-19 protocols
- Black Forest Fire/Rescue Protection District, Feb. 17: In-person attendance only—despite storm and COVID-19
- Black Forest Fire Rescue/Protection District, March 23: Fire code variance concern; fleet modifications needed
- Snapshots: Which districts do you live in?
- Black Forest Fire/Rescue Protection District, April 21: Replacement staff hired; new engine for 2022
- Black Forest Fire/Rescue Protection District, May 19: Staffing turbulence; county commissioner visit; first annual awards
- Black Forest Fire/Rescue Protection District, June 16: Administrator and accountant hired
- Black Forest Fire/Rescue Protection District, July 21: Staffing turbulence; exclusion process is slow
- Black Forest Fire/Rescue Protection District, Aug. 25:
Exclusion process stalls; staff requested; repairs needed
- Black Forest Fire/Rescue Protection District, Sept. 15: Joint exclusion plan approved
- Black Forest Fire/Rescue Protection District, Oct. 20 and 28: 2022 budget revealed; eight firefighters hired
- Black Forest Fire/Rescue Protection District, Nov. 17: Public hearing on the 2022 budget
- Black Forest Fire/Rescue Protection District, Dec. 8: Director remembered; 2022 budget adopted
- Black Forest Fire/Rescue Protection District, Jan. 19: Temporary board vacancy filled; tender purchase approved
- Black Forest Fire/Rescue Protection District, Feb. 16: Illegal recreational fire concerns addressed
- Black
Forest Fire/Rescue Protection District, March 16: Chairman receives
recognition; wildland fire preparations on track
- Black Forest Fire/Rescue Protection District, April 20: Station alerting approved; strategic planning defined
- Black Forest Fire/Rescue Protection District, May 18: Board directors take oath; ladder truck needs explored
- Black Forest Fire/Rescue Protection District, June 22: Probationary staff take the oath of office; ladder truck approved
- Black Forest Fire/Rescue Protection District, July 20: Staff lost and gained; lease/purchase agreement approved
- Black Forest Fire/Rescue Protection District, Aug. 17: New engine arrives in district
- Black Forest Fire/Rescue Protection District, Sept. 21: 2021 audit is unmodified; staff members promoted to permanent status
- Black Forest Fire/Rescue Protection District, Oct. 12: 2023 budget options presented; commissioner seeks district opinion
- Black Forest Fire/Rescue Protection District, Nov. 16: Proposed 2023 budget presented; FAMLI program rejected
- Black Forest Fire/Rescue Protection District, Dec. 7: 2023 budget approved, mill levy certified
- Black Forest Fire/Rescue Protection District, Jan. 18: Deputy chief receives recognition upon retirement; property loss averted
- Black Forest Fire/Rescue Protection District, Feb. 15: Audit officer search continues; replacement firefighters hired
- Black Forest Fire/Rescue Protection District, March 15: Board of Directors election canceled
- Black Forest Fire/Rescue Protection District, April 19: Board approves wage compensation schedule; wildland technicians hired
Black Forest Fire/Rescue Protection District, May 17: Directors elected; ambulance sale approved
Articles to help you identify our local feathered friends...
This series of book reviews focuses on books of special interest to Tri-Lakes area residents...
The El Paso County Board of County Commissioners wields considerable power
as the governing authority for land use and other decisions for the
unincorporated areas of the county. For more on
this topic...
- El Paso Board of County Commissioners, Jan 12, 19, and 26: Rezoning and final plat approvals for Black Forest properties
- El Paso Board of County Commissioners, Feb. 9 and 16: County Master Plan nears completion; progress at three Tri-lakes area developments
- El Paso Board of County Commissioners, March 2, 9, and 16: County seeks public comment on draft Master Plan
- El Paso Board of County Commissioners, March 30, April 6, 13, and 20: Cloverleaf development rezoning approval a "win-win"
- 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
- El Paso Board of County Commissioners, June 1, 15, and 22: Cloverleaf preliminary plan approved; Master Plan certification received
- El Paso Board of County Commissioners, July 6, 15, and 20: New special district approved for Cloverleaf development
- El Paso Board of County Commissioners, July 27, Aug. 10 and 24: $134 million renewable water project proposed for county
- El Paso Board of County Commissioners, Sept. 7 and 14: Red Rock Acres rezoning approved despite opposition
- El Paso Board of County Commissioners, Sept. 28, Oct. 5, 12, 19, 21, and 26: Initial 2022 budget hearings held
- El Paso Board of County Commissioners, Nov. 2, 9, and 16: More road funds allocated in proposed 2022 budget; WMMI variance of use approved
- El Paso Board of County Commissioners, Dec. 2, 7, 14, and 21: 2022 budget approved amid dispute over more funding for Public Health
- El Paso Board of County Commissioners, Jan. 4, 11 and Feb. 1: Cloverleaf development moves forward
- El Paso Board of County Commissioners, March 8, 15, and 22: Minor subdivision approved in Black Forest; beetle infestation treatment in The Pineries Open Space draws concern
- El Paso Board of County Commissioners, March 29, April 5 and 19: Highway 105 Improvement Project moves closer to construction phase
- El Paso Board of County Commissioners, May 3, 17, and 24: The Walden Preserve 2 and Flying Horse North developments move forward
- El Paso Board of County Commissioners, June 7 and 14: Ongoing code violation brought to commissioners’ attention
- El Paso County Board of County Commissioners, July 19: Commissioners approve TLMFPD ambulance permits
- El Paso Board of County Commissioners, Aug. 2, 9, 16, and 23: Planning Commission changes and additional Tri-Lakes Cares funding approved
- El Paso Board of County Commissioners, Sept. 6 and 13: Cooperation encouraged as Black Forest rezone approved despite neighbors’ objections
- El Paso Board of County Commissioners, Sept. 27, Oct. 4, 11, and 25: County presents 2023 preliminary balanced budget; renews Black Forest Section 16 lease
- Letters: County Commissioners: Who do they work for, the people or developers?
- El Paso Board of County Commissioners, Nov. 1, 8, and 15: County approves sketch plan for 846 homes and a luxury hotel resort in Black Forest
- El Paso Board of County Commissioners, Nov. 29, Dec. 6 and 20: Approval for RV storage special use at Highway 83 property
- Letters: The County Master Plan is a sham
- El Paso Board of County Commissioners, Jan. 10, 17, and 24: New chair and vice chair appointed
- El Paso Board of County Commissioners, Feb. 7 and 21: Citizen voices concern with county land development policy
- El Paso Board of County Commissioners, Feb. 28 and March 21: Board hears calls to set aside Flying Horse North decision amid impropriety concerns
- El Paso Board of County Commissioners, March 28, April 4 & 18: Overlook Estates rezone denied
El Paso Board of County Commissioners, May 2, 9, and 16: Approval of three commercial multi-tenant buildings off Struthers Road
The El Paso County Planning Commission reviews proposals for developments in the unincorporated parts of the county. It makes recommendations to the Board of County Commissioners. Some of these projects have a direct impact on the residents of the Tri-Lakes area. For more on this topic...
- El Paso County Planning Commission Master Plan adoption hearing, May 5 and 26: New county Master Plan approved
- El Paso County Planning Commission, July 15: Business event center proposed; Cloverleaf development moves forward
- El Paso County Planning Commission, Aug. 19: Black Forest minor subdivision recommended for approval
- El Paso County Planning Commission, Sept. 2: Red Rock Acres rezoning recommended for approval amid neighbors’ objections
- El Paso County Planning Commission, Oct. 7: Two minor subdivisions approved; information session on Highway 83 Access Control Plan
- El Paso County Planning Commission, Nov. 2 and 18: WMMI variance of use recommended for approval
- El Paso County Planning Commission, May 19: Minor subdivision north of Hodgen Road recommended for approval
- El Paso County Planning Commission, Aug. 18: Black Forest rezone recommended for approval despite neighbors’ concerns
- Community Meeting, Sept. 8:
Flying Horse North project update provided at meeting
- Community Meeting, Sept. 13: Concerns raised about proposed Sunset Amphitheater
- El Paso County Planning Commission, Oct. 20: Two special use applications recommended for approval despite neighbors’ concerns
- El Paso County Planning Commission, Nov. 3 and 17: Commissioners deadlocked in Flying Horse North sketch plan vote
- El Paso County Planning Commission, March 2 and 16: Commissioners say 5-acre lots under attack, vote against rezone
- El Paso County Planning Commission, April 20 Plans for three commercial multi-tenant buildings recommended for approval
El Paso County Planning Commission, May 4 and 18: Townhome development off Woodmoor Drive recommended for approval

The COVID-19 virus has forced the entire nation to change daily life and business. See how the Tri-Lakes area is adapting ...

The Donala Water and Sanitation District provides water and sewer service to the Gleneagle development. For more on this topic...
- Donala Water and Sanitation District, Oct. 15: "Phenomenal" savings achieved
- Donala Water and Sanitation District, Nov. 19: Regionalization considerations include water and wastewater
- Donala Water and Sanitation District, Dec. 10: 2021 finances and policy changes established
- Donala Water and Sanitation District, Jan. 21: Waste output, water input draw district’s attention
- Donala Water and Sanitation District, Feb. 18: District bolsters cybersecurity defenses
- Donala Water and Sanitation District, March 18: Leak nightmare fosters policy exception
- Donala Water and Sanitation District, May 20: Board workshop produces actionable items
- Donala Water and Sanitation District, June 17: Clean 2020 annual audit presented
- Donala Water and Sanitation District, July 15: District reviews budget at midyear
- Donala Water and Sanitation District, Aug. 19: Radium level prompts corrective response
- Donala Water and Sanitation District, Sept. 23: Special meeting to answer radium questions; grant for aquifer storage study
- Donala Water and Sanitation District, Oct. 21: Aging well infrastructure raises concerns
- Donala Water and Sanitation District, Nov. 18: Personnel and customer policies updated
- Donala Water and Sanitation District, Dec. 9: Board considers volume-based sewer rates
- Donala Water and Sanitation District, Jan. 20: Board celebrates staff, hears updates on infrastructure
- Donala Water and Sanitation District, Feb. 17: Board moves forward with water reuse project
- Donala Water and Sanitation District, March 17: Radium and operational details discussed
- Donala Water and Sanitation District, April 21: Board brainstorms strategies
- Donala Water and Sanitation District, May 19: Directors sworn in; audit shows financial health
- Donala Water and Sanitation District, June 16: District bows out of Northern Monument Creek Interceptor project
- Donala Water and Sanitation District, July 21:
Treatment plant partners notify district of their intent to bow out
- Donala Water and Sanitation District, Aug. 18: New member appointed to board
- Donala Water and Sanitation District, Sept. 22: Good news on the radium front
- Donala Water and Sanitation District, Oct. 13: Draft budget includes increases in charges
- Donala Water and Sanitation District, Nov. 17: Holbein plant radium below detectable levels
- Donala Water and Sanitation District, Dec. 12: Rate increases approved for 2023
- Donala Water and Sanitation District, Jan. 19: Wastewater study funding disputed
- Donala Water and Sanitation District, Feb. 16: Donala to lease water to Martin Marietta
- Donala Water and Sanitation District, March 16: Board seeks long-term contract with CSU
- Donala Water and Sanitation District, April 20: Waste treatment plant debate continues
Donala Water and Sanitation District, May 18: Board reorganizes; aquifer storage and recovery study presented
Donald Wescott Fire Protection District
The Donald Wescott Fire Protection District provides covers from Baptist Road south to Colorado Springs. For more on this topic...
- Donald Wescott Fire Protection District meeting, Sept. 15, 22: Board favors de-Gallagherization
- Donald Wescott Fire Protection District, Oct. 20: COVID-19 guidelines continue; updates received
- Snapshots: DWFPD’s new tender
- Donald Wescott Fire Protection District, Nov. 17:
2021 budget disagreements may see a loss of a chief position
- Donald Wescott Fire Protection District meeting, Dec. 1:
2021 budget approved as focus is on
- Donald Wescott Fire Protection District, Jan. 19: Chief Burns to retire after over 40 years
- Donald Wescott Fire Protection District meeting, Feb. 16: Meeting with firefighters’ union approved
- Donald Wescott Fire Protection District, Feb. 18, March 9 Payroll discrepancies rectified; ISO rating improves
- Snapshots: Which districts do you live in?
- Donald Wescott Fire Protection District, March 29 and April 20: Interim fire chief sworn in; FLSA dispute continues
- Donald Wescott Fire Protection District, Aug. 16: 2021 audit approved; district boundary realignment discussed
- Donald Wescott Fire Protection District, Sept. 20: Mill levy adjustment recommended; board pushes ahead with merger
- Donald Wescott Fire Protection District, Oct. 18: Mill levy adjustment approved, residents voice multiple concerns
- Donald Wescott Fire Protection District, Nov. 15: 2023 budget approved; Sun Hills station’s future undecided
- Donald Wescott Fire Protection District, Dec. 7: 2023 budget hearing; staff member departure
- Donald Wescott Fire Protection District, Jan. 25: Sun Hills storage agreement approved; subdistrict dissolution process begins
- Donald Wescott Fire Protection District, March 22: Local COVID emergency status ends; vehicle storage agreement approved
- Donald Wescott Fire Protection District, April 26: Northern subdistrict dissolution plan underway; 2022 supplemental budget approved
Donald Wescott Fire Protection District, May 24: Gleneagle annexation timeline unknown; merger process continues
For more articles on Tri-Lakes area emergency services, see also the
Tri-Lakes Monument Fire Protection District and the
Emergency Preparedness and Emergency Services topics.
There is interest in drilling for oil and natural gas in Pike National Forest
in the Tri-Lakes area. For more on this topic...
Opinions differ as to the best way to maintain a vital local economy. For more on this topic...
The El Paso County Regional Loop Water Authority (EPCRLWA), informally known as "the Loop project,"
was formed in November 2022 by an Intergovernmental Agreement between Cherokee Metropolitan District,
Donala Water and Sanitation District, the Town of Monument, and Woodmoor
Water and Sanitation District
to address the depletion of groundwater that provides the bulk of water consumed in northern El Paso County by building
infrastructure that would allow water, including treated effluent from the Tri-Lakes Wastewater Treatment Facility, to be re-used.
For more on this topic...
The El Paso County Sheriff's Office provides law enforcement services to the unincorporated areas of El Paso County. For more on this topic...
Emergency preparedness and emergency services in the Tri-Lakes area are served by a collection of special districts. For more on this topic...
For more articles on Tri-Lakes area emergency services, see also the
Donald Wescott Fire Protection District
Tri-Lakes Fire Protection District, and
Tri-Lakes-Monument Fire Authority.
The Forest Lakes Metropolitan District, established in 1985, west of I-25 at the end of West Baptist Road, is a Title
32 service district in El Paso County established in 1985. FLMD is the half-acre
operating district responsible for the public infrastructure and utility and
general governmental services for the residents of Pinion Pines Metropolitan
Districts 1, 2, and 3, which
actually collect the property taxes. PPMD 1 and 2 are in unincorporated El Paso
County, but the commercial section PPMD 3 is within Monument town limits.
It is a service district in El Paso County. For more on this topic...
- Forest
Lakes Metropolitan District and Pinon Pines Metropolitan Districts 2 and 3,
Sept. 15: Water restrictions tighten; trail license approved
- Forest Lakes Metropolitan District and Pinon Pines Metro Districts 1, 2, and 3, Dec. 7: Wastewater rates increase approved
- Forest Lakes Metropolitan District and Pinon Pines Metro Districts 2 and 3, May 27: Wells pursued; water purchase 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
- Forest Lakes Metropolitan District and Pinon Pines Metropolitan Districts 2 and 3, Aug. 16: Denver well moving forward; long-term water solutions discussed
- 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
- Forest Lakes Metropolitan District and Pinon Pines Metropolitan Districts 2 and 3, Feb. 7: Contract for an emergency interconnection approved
- Forest Lakes Metropolitan District and Pinon Pines Metropolitan Districts 1, 2, and 3, July 11 and 28: Residents rely on lake water; new trail approved
- Forest Lakes Metropolitan District & Pinon Pines Metropolitan Districts 1, 2 and 3, Dec. 5: Rate increases for residents; 2023 budgets and mill levies adopted
The Forest View Acres Water District was established in 1957 by the late Hugh Nevins. From the initial provision of water to 27 homes, FVAWD currently provides water service to 280 residences in the Red Rocks Ranch, Clovenhoof, Villas, Sundance Estates, and Shiloh Pines neighborhoods in unincorporated El Paso County. In 2004, an embezzlement of at least $315,000 was discovered. For more on this topic...
- Forest View Acres Water District, March 27: Forest View Acres Water District receives $300,000 grant
- Forest View Acres Water District,July 24: Board votes to improve infrastructure
- Forest View Acres Water District, Sept. 25:
Board approves new water meters
- Forest View Acres Water District, May 24:
Hydrant repairs recommended in FVAWD
- Forest View Acres Water District, Dec. 6:
Board discusses budget and upcoming election
- FVAWD Meeting, May 23
- Forest Lakes Metropolitan District and Pinon Pines Metropolitan Districts 1, 2 and 3, March 12: Interceptor approved; water treatment plant up and running
- Forest View Acres Water District, June 26:
Forest View Acres has big projects in the works
- Forest View Acres Water District, May 27: Board discusses financial reports and turbidity
- Forest Lakes Metropolitan District and Pinon Pines Metropolitan Districts 2 and 3, Aug. 11: Mandatory water restrictions; southern trail could be extended
- Forest View Acres Water District, Feb. 24: State of district and potential inclusion discussed
- Forest View Acres, April 28 and May 26: District may piggyback on town’s newest water tank for emergency access
- Forest Lakes Metropolitan District & Pinon Pines Metropolitan Districts 1, 2 & 3, Sept. 12: Northern Monument Creek Interceptor design phase moves forward
Information to assist the indoor and outdoor gardener...
- High Altitude Nature and Gardening (HANG): Garden friends and foes and deleting voles
- Snapshots: Free ground cover-Purge the Spurge
- High Altitude Nature and Gardening (HANG): Early birds for gardens and mucho mulch
- High Altitude Nature and Gardening (HANG): Garden telltale signs and surprises
- High Altitude Nature and Gardening (HANG): Touch-free soil aeration, thistle sandwiches, and drunken compost
- High Altitude Nature and Gardening (HANG): The green prescription to a healthy, long life
- High Altitude Nature and Gardening (HANG): Fall birds and gardens
- Snapshots: Community Garden, Aug. 7
- High Altitude Nature and Gardening (HANG): Autumn with an altitude
- High Altitude Nature and Gardening (HANG): Windowsill zombies; bringing outdoor pots indoors
- High Altitude Nature and Gardening (HANG): Are holiday plants safe for pets and kids?
- High Altitude Nature and Gardening (HANG): Winter seed planting with milk jug as cloche
- High Altitude Nature and Gardening (HANG): Sauntering through nature; winter watering requirements
- High Altitude Nature and Gardening (HANG): Spring hummingbirds and pollinators
- High Altitude Nature and Gardening (HANG): Microclimates, early planting, and "good bugs"
- High Altitude Nature and Gardening (HANG): Native plants make beautiful landscapes while protecting our ecosystem
- High Altitude Nature and Gardening (HANG): Eco-smart gardening for people, pets, and wildlife
- High Altitude Nature and Gardening (HANG):
Colors and plants that repel mosquitoes
- High Altitude Nature and Gardening (HANG): Corn, seed bombs and dogs in the garden
- High Altitude Nature and Gardening (HANG): Nature harvest: Seeds are miracles in tiny packages
- High Altitude Nature and Gardening (HANG): High altitude garden success in any season
- High Altitude Nature and Gardening (HANG): Nature, mood, and electro culture
- High Altitude Nature and Gardening (HANG): December gardening
- High Altitude Nature and Gardening (HANG): Lords of the rings: our magnificent, ponderous pines
- High Altitude Nature and Gardening (HANG): Bringing nature indoors: seedlings, plants, and soil
- High Altitude Nature and Gardening (HANG): Colorado in March is full of nature’s surprises
- High Altitude Nature and Gardening (HANG): Plants can fill us with food and fill our electrical energy needs, too
- High Altitude Nature and Gardening (HANG): No mow May; planting in our mountain forest climes
High Altitude Nature and Gardening (HANG): Very good plants, harmful invaders
OCN has carried a series of articles and letters on various health and wellness topics. For more
on this topic...
Jackson Creek is one of the fastest growing areas within the Town of Monument.
The Triview Metropolitan District supplies water, sewer, and road maintenance services to Jackson Creek. For more on this topic...

The Tri-Lakes area goes all-out in celebrating Independence Day. For more on this topic...
OCN carries a series of articles on local law enforcement issues...
- Fraud, ID theft seen in Tri-Lakes area
- Keeping our children safe, May 18
- County candidates present their priorities
- Letter: Defending Monument police
- Letter: Stealing is a crime
- Letter: Burglary mars store’s anniversary
- Inside the Monument Police Citizens’ Academy
- Inside the Monument Citizens Police Academy, weeks 3, 4, and 5
- Snapshots: Human Trafficking Series started, Jan. 31
- El Paso County Sheriff’s Office report: Highlights of March crimes in County Sheriff’s District 1
- Snapshots:
Bomb threat at Wal-Mart, Dec. 5
- Snapshots: Coal car derailment, May 13
- Burglaries, shots fired in Monument
- Snapshots: Monument Police Bike Patrol
- Snapshots: MPD info night, Apr. 20
The Lewis-Palmer District 38 School Board typically meets monthly. OCN
reports on most of those meetings. For more on this topic...
- Lewis-Palmer D 38 Board of Education, Dec. 13: Communications program, demographic study, open enrollment policy discussed
- Lewis-Palmer D38 Board of Education, Jan. 24: Board recognized, grants announced, compensation approved
-
rapidly
- Lewis-Palmer D-38 District Accountability Advisory Committee, Jan. 11: Committee addresses compensation, teacher evaluations, MA secondary school
- Lewis-Palmer D38 Board of Education, Feb. 22: Board discusses actions on Strategic Plan and No Place for Hate program, recognizes student achievements
- Lewis-Palmer D38 District Accountability Advisory Committee, Feb. 8: Budget overview, Strategic Plan Priority 4 fiscal stewardship, Prairie Winds update
- Lewis-Palmer D38 Board of Education, March 14: Board recognizes student achievements, discusses grants and budget timeline
- Snapshots: LPHS won 4A, Mar. 12
- Snapshots: PRHS students win MVEA trips
- Snapshots: Bearbotics reaches regionals
- Lewis-Palmer D38 Board of Education, April 18: Palmer Ridge geothermal project advances, baseball field draws complaints
- Lewis-Palmer D38 DAAC, April 12: Community engagement and Title programs
- Letters: Thanks for LPHS After Prom event
- Lewis-Palmer D38 Board of Education, May 16: Board reviews preliminary budget that includes raises, welcomes new Kilmer principal, celebrates achievements
- Snapshots: PRHS musical wins Bobby G award
- Snapshots: LPHS final concert, May 10
- Snapshots: LPHS choirs performed, May 12
- Lewis-Palmer D38 Board of Education, June 20: Board passes 2022-23 budget, learns of recent legislation, discusses potential annexation
- Letters: D38 is pretending it needs more dollars
- Snapshots: Fritzsche wins coaching award
- Lewis-Palmer D38 Board of Education, Aug. 22: Board approves wording of property tax ballot initiative, recognizes staff
- Lewis-Palmer
D38 DAAC, Sept. 13: Committee adds two subcommittees, discusses MLO and
spring test results
- Lewis-Palmer
D38 Board of Education, Sept. 19: Board accredits schools, adopts character
education programs, plans community engagement
- Letters:
D38 has lost 400 students.Why do they need more money?
- Letters:
Support our D38 school board
- Letters:
Is the D38 MLO a good deal for seniors?
- Letters:
Does anyone realize how much more money D38 will get in this mill levy override?
- Letters:
Lies, lies, lies
- Letters:
Thank you D38 teachers, staff,and school board!
- Lewis-Palmer District 38 Board of Education, Oct. 24: Board receives Monument Academy annual report, Unified Improvement Plan
- D38 Parent and Community (formerly District Accountability) Advisory Committee, Oct. 11: Committee votes to change name, include new subcommittees
- Letters: The need is now, the time is now
- Letters: D38 MLO
- Letters: Get the facts straight
- Letters: Yes to 4A
- Letters: Local investment is the only way forward
- Letters: Vote yes on MLO
- Letters: D38 mill levy
- Letters: The 4A facts
- Letters: You get what you pay for
- Letters: 4A is no slush fund—it means a raise for our teachers!
- Letters: An objective look at the D38 MLO question
- Letters: Honor and integrity
- Letters: Vote no on District 38 mill levy override
- Letters: Support mechanisms only go so far
- Letters: District needs more money, not less!
- Letters: Teachers are fighting for survival
- Letters: Approve 4A
- Letters: Yes on 4A
- Snapshots: Military appreciation at LP
- Snapshots:
Powder Puff Football, Oct. 5
- Lewis-Palmer D38 Board of Education, Nov. 14: Board acts on bus purchases, opts out of FAMLI, ponders ways to cope with failure of the mill levy override ballot measure
- D38 Parent and Community Advisory Committee, Nov. 15: Committee discusses options following election
- Lewis-Palmer D38 Board of Education, Dec. 12: Results of calendar survey discussed; mid-year compensation action approved
- Lewis-Palmer School District 38 Parent and Community Advisory Committee, Jan. 10: Committee restructure, Kilmer presentation, strategic plan update
- Lewis-Palmer D38 Board of Education, Jan. 23: Board discusses budgeting strategy for facilities, passes amended budget
- Lewis-Palmer D38 Board of Education, Feb. 21: Board president resigns; budget and draft calendar discussed
- Snapshots: Lewis-Palmer D-38 combined band concert, Jan. 31
- Family and Community Advisory Committee, Feb. 7: Committee learns about Lewis-Palmer Elementary School, legislative issues, and title programs
- Lewis-Palmer D38 Board of Education, March 20: Proposed pay schedule introduced
- Letters: D38 demographics changes are important
- Lewis-Palmer D38 Parent and Community Advisory Committee, April 11: Bear Creek Elementary, Portrait of a Graduate and Educator, wellness policy discussed
- Lewis-Palmer D38 Board of Education, April 17: New director sworn in; board reorganization; Safe and Welcoming Schools discussion
- Snapshots: Lewis-Palmer HS Concert
Lewis-Palmer D38 Board of Education, May 22: Pay schedule approved, board roles revised, funding detailed
Letters: More demonstrable lies from D38
Letters: LPHS After Prom thanks
Snapshots: LPHS final 2023 concert, May 9
Library News
The Tri-Lakes area is part of the Pikes Peak Library District that sponsors many events. For more on this topic...
- February Library Events: Library reopens with limited services; adult reading program begins
- March Library Events:
Adult Reading Program continues; Take and Make Kits available
- April Library Events: Library offers printing of tax forms, other services
- May Library Events: Changes in services, programming for May
- June Library Events: Summer Adventure begins
- July Library Events: Summer Adventure continues; some programs resume
- August Library Events: Some programs reinstated, summer reading ends
- September Library Events: Meeting room available by reservation
- September Library Events: Math tutoring returns
- November Library Events: Hours change; ramp progresses
- December Library Events: Holiday closures announced, ramp continues to progress
- January Library Events:
Despite understaffing, Friday and Saturday hours extended
- February Library Events: Off-site story times, Palmer Lake ramp, math tutoring
- March Library Events: Palmer Lake branch reopens; spring break activities announced
- April Library Events: Art exhibit at Monument; number of programs grows
- May Library Events: Story Time and Toddler Time continue
- June Library Events: Summer Adventure begins with special programs, prizes
- July Library Events:
Summer Adventure continues; library will have booth at July 4 fair
- August Library Events: Summer Adventure ends; All Pikes Peak Reads selections announced
- August Library Events: Math tutoring suspended, regular programming resumes
- October Library Events: Authors to visit, Friends of the Library Week set
- November Library Events: Schedule changes for November
- December Library Events: Invitation to relax
- January Library Events: Explore the resources at your library
- February Library Events: Winter Adult Reading Program is underway
- March Library Events: Enjoy our annual quilt display, participate in adult reading
- April Library Events: Quilt show continues
- May Library Events: Preparations for summer reading underway
June Library Events: Join us for a Summer Adventure
There are a variety of sources of fascinating local history. For more on this topic...
- Snapshots:
Monument pioneers, July 4, 2019- Palmer Lake Historical Society:
Celebrating Colorado in August: statehood, summiting Pikes Peak, and suffrage
- Palmer Lake Historical Society, July 17: Walking Tour: History of U.S. Pike Forest Monument Preserve
- Palmer Lake Historical Society, Sept. 16: Pikes Peak Trolleys: past, present, future
- Palmer Lake Historical Society, Oct. 21: Long Expedition Bicentennial: Exploring the Front Range, 1820
- Palmer Lake Historical Society, Nov. 18: World War II ski troops: 10th Mountain Division
- Snapshots: Palmer Lake display at DIA
- Palmer Lake Historical Society, Dec. 12: 88th Palmer Lake Yule Log Hunt
- Palmer Lake Historical Society, Feb. 17: Adventures on the Pikes Peak Cog Railway
- Snapshots: Ute history at FoFRP, Mar. 24
- Palmer Lake Historical Society, April 21: The bad old days of Colorado
- Palmer Lake Historical Society, May 19: Helen Hunt Jackson—the Colorado years
- Palmer Lake Historical Society, June 16:
The Night of a Thousand Heroes
- Palmer Lake Historical Society, June 16: Palmer Lake walking tours
- Snapshots: Historic Palmer Lake Town Flag
- Palmer Lake Historical Society, Aug. 6: Chautauqua days remembered
- Palmer Lake Historical Society: Refurbished sign a historical legacy for Palmer Lake
- Palmer Lake Historical Society, Sept. 15: Capt. Jepp and the Little Black Book
- Palmer Lake Historical Society, Oct. 20: The history of the Alexander Film and Aircraft Company
- Palmer Lake Historical Society: Historic flood remembered
- Palmer Lake Historical Society, Dec. 11: 89th Annual Yule Log Hunt
- Letters: Monument historic red barn gets a new home
- Palmer Lake Historical Society, Jan. 19: Historical Society holds annual meeting
- Palmer Lake Historical Society, Feb. 16: Awake the Lake Committee describes mission
- Palmer Lake Historical Society, Feb. 16: History of the KKK in Denver presented
- Palmer Lake Historical Society, April 20: Pikes Peak Library District holds wealth of history
Palmer Lake Historical Society, May 18: Authors show ways to find history on hikes
Marijuana
Monument Academy
The Monument Academy is a charter school within Lewis-Palmer District 38. For more on this topic...
- Monument Academy School Board, Dec. 10: Board hears assessment report, COVID-19 impacts
- Letters: Thank you, Monument Academy
- Monument Academy School Board, Jan. 6 and 14:
Board sets 2021 goals, reviews vision
- Monument Academy School Board, Feb. 11: Board discusses High School options, updates board policies
- Monument Academy School Board, March 11: Board hears from Concurrent Enrollment consultant, prepares for assessments
- Monument Academy School Board, April 8: COO Herrera resigns; board hears Highway 105 update
- Monument Academy School Board, May 13: Board selects new COO, discusses mask use
- Monument Academy School Board, June 14: Board discusses new COVID testing program, welcomes new board members
- Monument Academy School Board, July 15: Board rejects COVID testing; reverts to in-person only meetings
- Monument Academy School Board, Aug. 19: Board mourns Principal Richardson, loosens elementary school shoe dress code
- Monument Academy School Board, Sept. 9: Board offers alternative to hoodies
- Monument Academy School Board, Oct. 5, 7, and 28: Board negotiates temporary exit to Highway 105
- Monument Academy School Board, Nov.11: Monument Academy high school principal resigns
- Monument Academy School Board, Dec. 6 and 9: Monument Academy struggles with concerns about leadership
- Monument Academy School Board, Jan. 13, 21: Board increases COO coaching budget; hears plans for modulars
- Monument Academy School Board, Feb. 10:
Board approves proclamation against gender identity
- Letters: Monument Academy School Board has poor values
- Letters: Sad, scared, and stunned
- Monument Academy School Board, March 3 and 10: Board considers arming staff, discusses term limits
- Monument Academy School Board, April 14: Board backs COO despite reviews, welcomes board candidates
- Monument Academy School Board, May 12: Board considers organizational chart that restructures Exceptional Student Services
- Monument Academy School Board, June 9:
Phase 2 funding, Highway 105 construction hit roadblocks; arming staff
decision
- Monument Academy School Board, July 14, 22, and 25: Board votes to arm staff, implement dress policy gender rules
- Letters: Monument Academy School Board is breaking the law
- Monument Academy School Board, Aug. 1 and 11: Board approves student handbook changes
- Monument Academy School Board, Sept. 1, 8, and 13: COO resigns; board fills vacancy and considers MLO
- Monument Academy School Board, Oct. 6, 13, and 25: Board approves joint resolution with D38 on MLO
- Monument Academy School Board, Nov. 10 and 18: Board adds to uniform policy, moves forward on COO hiring
- Monument Academy School Board, Dec. 1 and 8: Board launches fundraising campaign; CFO resigns
- Monument Academy School Board, Jan. 3, 12, and 27 Board hires financial consultant
- Monument Academy School Board, Feb. 9: Board hears finance and mid-year COO updates
- Monument Academy School Board, March 9: MA building corporation executes construction documents; board extends interim COO contract
- Monument Academy School Board, April 13: MA selects board members, makes progress on finances
MA School Board, May 11, 25: MA addresses gender issues, budgets
The Town of Monument Town Council typically holds two meetings per month.
OCN reports on most of the meetings. For more on this topic...
- Monument Board of Trustees, Jan.4: UPS distribution center; water-related projects
- Monument Board of Trustees, Feb. 1: Village at Jackson Creek development
- Monument Board of Trustees, Feb. 16: Property purchase avoids new building costs
- Letters: Cleared town employees deserve public apology
- 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
- Monument Board of Trustees, April 5: Home rule a possibility for Monument; land uses pass
- Monument Board of Trustees, April 19: Board repeals emergency pandemic declaration
- Monument Board of Trustees, May 3: Monument will hold Independence Day festivities
- Monument Board of Trustees, workshop and regular meeting, May 17: Monument residents may see refunds from town revenue overages
- Monument Board of Trustees, June 7: Monument approves land ordinances, hears presentations
- Monument Board of Trustees, June 21: Voters will be asked to forgo a refund, allowing town to keep excess revenue
- Monument Board of Trustees, July 19: In the fall, board will ask voters to raise taxes
- Monument Board of Trustees, Aug. 16: Conexus service plan denied after hundreds protest
- Monument Board of Trustees, Aug. 2 and 9: Town attorney put on leave amid ethical questions
- Monument Board of Trustees, Sept. 9: Darcy M. Schoening appointed to vacant trustee position
- Monument Board of Trustees, Oct. 4: Higby Road and Jackson Creek Parkway updates; land resolutions approved
- 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
- Monument Board of Trustees Special Meeting, Dec. 7: Board approves 2022 budget
- Letters: Monument trustees need to enforce remote attendance rule
- Monument Board of Trustees, Jan. 3: Ballot issue 2F funds already working to improve MPD
- Monument Board of Trustees, Jan. 18: Town continues annexing enclaves for zoning consistency
- Monument Board of Trustees, Feb. 7: Remote participation approved; Hayes recognized for supporting 2F
- Monument Board of Trustees, Feb. 22: Conexus development moves forward
- Monument Board of Trustees, March 7: Town moves toward renewable water access; shows accord with Ukraine
- Monument Board of Trustees, March 21: Monument Junction development phase approved
- Monument Board of Trustees, April 4: Board member resigns; Independence Day festivities approved
- Monument Board of Trustees, May 2: Foreman receives Manager of the Year award
- Monument Board of Trustees, May 16: Lack of permitting causing small-business hardship
- Monument Board of Trustees workshop and meeting, June 20: Permits for business lake use approved
- Monument Board of Trustees, July 5: Board approves "suggestion" that members state reason for votes
- Monument Board of Trustees, July 18: Board gets presentations on legislation and history, approves Falcon Commerce Center Phase 2
- Monument Board of Trustees, Aug. 1: Board approves two ordinances, cancels two workshops
- Monument Board of Trustees, Aug. 15: Board approves ordinance but splits on amendment
- Monument Board of Trustees, Sept. 6 and 19: Developers clash with neighbors; trustees frustrated after planners quit
- Monument Board of Trustees, Oct. 17: Planning director hired; multifamily apartments approved following changes to the plans
- Snapshots: Monument Candidate Forum, Oct. 13
- Monument Board of Trustees, Nov. 7 and 21: Annexation action delayed; election results portent change in direction
- Monument Board of Trustees/Town Council, December 2022: Special investigator claims Home Rule Charter void in report alleging illegal electioneering by Monument staff
- Monument Town Council, Jan. 3 and 17: New Monument board sets aside investigation until new law firm hired
- Monument Town Council, Feb. 6 and 21: Beacon Lite business withdraws annexation request after concerns from new board
- Monument Town Council, March 6 and 20: New clerk, new police officers, and $100,000 change order approved
- Monument Town Council, April: Land use bill, investigation loom
- Letters: Monument Town Council opposes bill
Letters: No Mafia in Monument
Monument Town Council, May 1 and 15: Midtown Collection of Monument Junction approved on 5-2 vote
Monument Fire District
Formerly called the Tri-Lakes Monument Fire Protection District until it merged with Donald Wescott Fire Protection District in 2022, the MFD
serves much of the north El Paso County area.
- Tri-Lakes Monument Fire Protection District, March 24: Chief impressed by collaboration during storm
- Snapshots: Which districts do you live in?
- Tri-Lakes Monument Fire Protection District April 28, May 13, and 26: Unification explored; storm after-action report; wildland apparatus proposed
- Snapshots: Wildfire mitigation demo, May 15
- 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
- Donald Wescott Fire Protection District, special meeting June 15: Board approves feasibility study for unification
- Tri-Lakes Monument Fire Protection District, June 23: Wescott unification progress; residential assessment rates dropping
- 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
- 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
- Tri-Lakes Monument Fire Protection District, Sept. 22: Deputy chief’s retirement announced; wildland fire plans presented
- Donald Wescott Fire Protection District, Sept. 21: Unification process concerns; volunteer pensions to increase
- Donald Wescott Fire Protection District, Oct. 19: Staff take oath of office; volunteer retirement pension increase approved
- Tri-Lakes Monument Fire Protection District, Oct. 4 and 27: Unification progressing; 2022 budget discussed
- 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
- Donald Wescott Fire Protection District and Tri-Lakes Monument Fire Protection District, Nov. 10: Joint special meeting hears feasibility study presentation for potential unification
- Tri-Lakes Monument Fire Protection District, Nov. 17: 2022 Budget approved early; surprise promotion
- Tri-Lakes Monument Fire Protection District and Donald Wescott Fire Protection District, Dec. 8: Historic fire district unification approved
- Donald Wescott Fire Protection District, Dec. 8 and 15: IGA and 2022 budget approved
- Tri-Lakes Monument Fire Protection District and Donald Wescott Fire Protection District, Dec. 8: Historic fire district unification approved
- Tri-Lakes Monument Fire Protection District, Dec. 1: Major step taken toward unification
- Donald Wescott Fire Protection District, Jan. 18: Director resigns; unification moving
- Tri-Lakes Monument Fire Protection District, Jan. 26: Battalion chief retires; unification insight; ladder truck approved
- Tri-Lakes Monument Fire Protection District, Feb. 23: AMR requests remain high; squad vehicle approved
- Snapshots: Fire district ice rescue training
- Donald Wescott Fire Protection District, Feb. 15: Call volume increases; merger exceeding expectations
- Donald Wescott Fire Protection District, March 15: Volunteer Pension Fund closed; May election cancelled
- Tri-Lakes Monument Fire Protection District, March 30: Board meeting too late for publication
- Donald Wescott Fire Protection District, April 19: Third ambulance in service; wildland fire mitigation efforts ramp up
- Tri-Lakes Monument Fire Protection District, March 30 and April 27: Election canceled; district will rebrand
- Donald Wescott Fire Protection District, May 17: Director positions determined; intergovernmental agreement near
- Tri-Lakes Monument Fire Protection District, May 25: Former board director remembered
- Donald Wescott Fire Protection District, June 2, 21 and 28: Unification hits speed bump; board votes to obtain station appraisal
- Tri-Lakes Monument Fire Protection District, June 22: District rebrands
- Tri-Lakes Monument Fire Protection District, July 8 and 27: Local 4319 seeks collective bargaining agreement; districts combine
- Donald Wescott Fire Protection District, July 19: 2021 audit is clean; funding transfer approved
- Snapshots: Two fire districts become one
- Monument Fire District, Aug. 24: New fire station proposed
- Monument Fire District, Sept. 28: Board meeting held after publication
- Monument Fire District, Sept. 28 and Oct. 26: Mill levy adjustment approved; 2023 proposed budget presented
- Monument Fire District, Nov. 16: 2023 budget approved; mill levy match maintains revenue
- Monument Fire District, Dec. 7: Meet and confer plus agreement extended; employee handbook revised
- Monument Fire District, Jan. 25: Palmer Lake declines ambulance contract; district leads county mass casualty plan
- Monument Fire District, Feb. 22: Community outreach/public information officer position approved
- Monument Fire District, March 22: Four board directors elected; cell phone tower contract approved
- Monument Fire District, April 26: Potential Gleneagle annexation ignites concern; Hayes recognized
- Snapshots: Station 4 Push-In Ceremony
Monument Fire District, May 24: Board director positions change; contractor hiring flexibility approved
Snapshots: Battalion Chief Keough retires
The Monument Planning Commission typically meets monthly. The Monument Board of Adjustment meets as needed. Both make recommendations to the Board of Trustees regarding land use decisions. OCN reports on most of those meetings. For more on this topic...
- Monument Planning Commission, Dec. 9:
UPS Distribution Center Site Plan and Sanctuary Pointe Filing No. 8 Plat approved
- Monument Planning Commission, Jan. 13: New chair and vice chair for PC; Gleneagle Dental relocation plan approved
- Monument Planning Commission, Feb. 10: The Flynn Project, UPS Distribution Center, Sanctuary Pointe Filing No. 9 all approved for recommendation
- Monument Planning Commission, April 14: Three projects recommended for approval
- 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 Planning Commission, June 9: Annexation and zoning requests recommended for approval
- Monument
Planning Commission, Sept. 8: Final plats for Home Place Ranch and
Sanctuary Pointe filings approved
- Monument Planning Commission, Oct. 13: Higby Road annexation, town code, and industrial zoning standards discussed
- Monument Planning Commission Work Session, Nov.10: Maximum allowable building height and Higby Road designs discussed
- Monument Planning Commission Public Hearing and Work Session, Dec. 8: Triview and church enclave annexations approved; maximum building height discussed
- Monument Planning Commission, Jan. 12: QuikTrip and Monument Junction proposals approved
- Monument Planning Commission, Feb. 9: Conexus Phases 2 and 3 Preliminary PUD Plan and annexation of Limbach Park approved
- Monument Planning Commission, March 9: New commissioners sworn in, Monument Junction plans approved
- Monument Planning Commission, April 13: Monument to welcome new planning director; three proposals recommended for approval
- Monument Planning Commission, May 11: New industrial design standards draft approved
Sewer service in the Town of Monument is not provided by the town government. Service for the east and south are provided by the
Triview Metropolitan District. Service for the west and north are provided by the Monument Sanitation District. For more on the Monument Sanitation District...
- Monument Sanitation District, Dec. 16: Board approves 2021 budget
- Letters: We expect fair and accurate reporting
- Monument Sanitation District, Jan. 20: Board resolves infrastructure issue
- Monument Sanitation District, Feb. 17: District may refuse town’s TENORM treatment wastewater
- Monument Sanitation District, March 17: Preventive maintenance contracts; public access to meeting
- Monument Sanitation District, May 7 and 19: New district manager selected; attorney acts ahead of board’s direction
- Monument Sanitation District, June 16: New manager making district more efficient
- Monument Sanitation District, July 21: Updated 2020 audit approved
- Monument Sanitation District, Aug. 18: District reviews providers
- Monument Sanitation District, Sept. 15: Board sets public meetings on 2022 rates and budget
- Monument Sanitation District, Oct. 20: Board reviews finances and developments
- Monument Sanitation District, Nov. 17: Rates unchanged in 2022
- Monument Sanitation District, Dec. 15: Financial reports approved; election scheduled
- Monument Sanitation District, Jan. 19:
Willow Springs Ranch development poised to
- Monument Sanitation District, Feb. 16: New auditor selected
- Monument Sanitation District, March 16: Board election canceled, rumors refuted
- Monument Sanitation District, April 20: District opts out of NMCI project
- Monument Sanitation District, May 18: Board members sworn in; officers elected
- Monument Sanitation District, June 15: Monument proposes water and sanitation consolidation
- Monument Sanitation District, July 20: NMCI participation drives wastewater realignment
- Monument Sanitation District, July 20: New developments enlarge service area
- Monument Sanitation District, Sept. 21:
District receives $684,000 American Recovery grant
- Monument Sanitation District, Oct.19: Sewer overflow contained
- Monument Sanitation District, Nov.16: Board holds the line on rates
- Snapshots: Districts receive awards, Oct. 26
- Monument Sanitation District, Dec.21: Employees get 9% pay increase
- Monument Sanitation District, Jan.18: Raspberry Lane repair launches
- Monument Sanitation District, Feb.15: Board appoints new director
- Monument Sanitation District, March 15: Election canceled
- Snapshots: Drilling through the night
- Monument Sanitation District, April 20: Focus on infrastructure
Monument Sanitation District, May 17: New board members sworn in
MVEA is the local co-op electrical utility which services much of the Tri-Lakes area. For more about MVEA see...
Articles about the Tri-Lakes area...
See more about nature in the Gardening topic
The Northern El Paso County Coalition of Community Associations is a coalition of over 30 homeowners associations representing more than 15,000 residents in the Tri-Lakes area. NEPCO’s mission is to enhance the quality of life of its member associations and their residents in a wide variety of areas. For more on this topic...
- Northern El Paso County Coalition of Community Associations, Nov. 14: NEPCO welcomes county commissioners
- Northern El Paso County Home Owners Associations (NEPCO), Jan. 23: NEPCO has Zoom meeting and welcomes county engineer
- Northern El Paso County Home Owners Association, March 13: Library district CEO gives overview
- Northern El Paso County Home Owners Associations (NEPCO), May 8: Land use and growth
- Northern El Paso County Homeowners Associations (NEPCO), Nov. 13th: NEPCO holds board elections, hosts county commissioners
- Northern El Paso County Coalition of Community Associations, Jan. 29: Guest speakers discuss water pipeline and code enforcement
- Northern El Paso County Homeowners Associations (NEPCO), March 19: PPACG chief describes its many duties
- NEPCO announces special speakers for May 14 meeting
- Northern El Paso County Coalition of Community Associations, May 14: Speakers explain state House and Senate bills affecting northern El Paso County
- Northern El Paso County Coalition of Community Associations, July 9: Pros and cons of HOA management companies discussed
- Northern El Paso County Coalition of Community Associations, Sept. 10: NEPCO learns about local developments and D38
- Northern El Paso County Coalition of Community Associations, Nov. 12: Two county commissioners speak on budgeting, spending
- Northern El Paso County Coalition of Community Associations (NEPCO), Jan. 21: New board introduced; guest speakers discuss transportation, impact fees
- Northern El Paso County Coalition of Community Organizations: NEPCO hears from fire officials
Northern El Paso County Coalition of Community Organizations (NEPCO): Wildfires drive up insurance costs in county
Many Coloradans enjoy recreation in the great outdoors. For more on this topic...
For more on this topic...
The Town of Palmer Lake Board of Trustees is commonly called the Town Council.
They typically hold one workshop and one meeting per month. OCN reports on most
of those meetings. For more on this topic...
- 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
- Palmer Lake Board of Trustees, Jan. 14 and 28: New leadership addresses old problem: water
- Palmer Lake Board of Trustees, Feb. 4, 11, and 25: Board appoints new trustee; water debate continues
- Palmer Lake Board of Trustees, March 11 and 25: Parking strategy takes shape; water debate continues
- Palmer Lake Board of Trustees, April 8 and 22: Board continues to seek fair plan for street parking
- Palmer Lake Board of Trustees, May 13 and 27: Board rescinds parking ban for visitors
- Palmer Lake Board of Trustees, June 10 and 24: Board approves medical marijuana storefront, renews license for pub
- Palmer Lake Board of Trustees, July 8 and 22: Board charts course on short-term rentals
- Palmer Lake Board of Trustees, Aug. 12 and 26: New town property proves challenging
- Palmer Lake Board of Trustees, Sept. 9 and 23 : Wilma French commemorated
- Palmer Lake Board of Trustees, Oct. 14 and 28: Time capsule planned for Town Hall
- Palmer Lake Board of Trustees, Nov. 4 and 18: Proposed 2022 budget on track for approval
- Palmer Lake Board of Trustees, Dec. 9: Policy on short-term rentals approved
- Palmer Lake Board of Trustees, Jan. 13:
Master Fee Schedule debated
- Palmer Lake Board of Trustees, Feb. 10 and 24: De-annexation request debated
- Palmer Lake Board of Trustees, March 10: Mayor and chiefs have sobering message for town
- Palmer Lake Board of Trustees, March 31, April 14 and 28: Town Hall reopens, drainage study presented
- Palmer Lake Board of Trustees, May 12, 24, and 26: Financial challenges spotlighted
- Snapshots: Palmer Lake grand-reopening
- Palmer Lake Board of Trustees, June 9 and 23: Renewable water might be available
- Palmer Lake Board of Trustees Workshops, June 9 and 23: Town debates Fire Department merger and cannabis revenues
- Palmer Lake Board of Trustees, July 14 and 28: Board sets direction on tax revenue issues
- Palmer Lake Board of Trustees Workshops, June 29, July 9, and July 14: Board studies Elephant Rock plan and mill levy override
- Palmer Lake Board of Trustees, Aug. 11 and 25: Elephant Rock developer chosen; cannabis and mill levy questions go to voters
- Palmer Lake Board of Trustees workshop and special meeting, Aug. 11 and 15:
Elephant Rock financials and mill levy override
- Palmer Lake Board of Trustees, Sept. 8 and 22: Fire Department receives grant
- Letters: Elephant Rock developer chosen
- Palmer Lake Board of Trustees, Oct. 13 and 27: Water Fund and municipal code prove contentious
- Letters: What you need to know about 2D
- Letters: Yes on 2D for Palmer Lake’s future!
- Letters: It’s our future, residents
- Palmer Lake Board of Trustees, Nov. 10 and 17: Board adopts new town code, proceeds with retail marijuana
- Snapshots: GMS and TN Parker receive award
- Palmer Lake Board of Trustees, Dec. 8 and 15: New leadership takes the helm
- Palmer Lake Board of Trustees, Jan. 12 and 26: Board awards adult-use cannabis licenses, discusses stalled Elephant Rock project
- Palmer Lake Board of Trustees, Feb. 9 and 23: Board hears proposals for Elephant Rock property
- Palmer Lake Board of Trustees, March 9 and 23: Future of Elephant Rock property unclear
- Palmer Lake Board of Trustees, April 13: Direction for water system and stormwater unclear
- Palmer Lake Board of Trustees, April 27: Strategies for water and drainage take shape
Palmer Lake Board of Trustees, May 3, 11, and 25: Board considers water issues and Elephant Rock
Palmer Lake Volunteer Fire Department
The PLVFD was formed to serve the town of Palmer Lake. It is a department
within the town's government. For more on this topic...
Opinions and reflections on Tri-Lakes area issues and community.
- Snapshots: NDS pipeline update, Jan. 18
- Snapshots: CDOT: Traffic deaths are up 50%
- Snapshots: Palmer Lake Outdoor Classic pits HS teams
- Snapshots: Blood drive, Jan. 15
- Snapshots: A vanishing scene, Jan. 20
- Snapshots: Quilt raffle in progress
- Neighbors hear about plans for Flying Horse North
- Snapshots: National Ice Cream for Breakfast Day at Lolley’s, Feb. 5
- Snapshots: Palmer Lake Winterfest, Feb. 12
- An important message for our readers: Our Community News needs your help!
- Snapshots: Park groundbreaking, Mar. 9
- Snapshots: SEW Monumentaries, Mar. 12
- Neighborhood meeting, March 29: Lake Woodmoor Holdings proposes developments in Woodmoor
- Letters: Praise from a news junkie
- Letters: Flush not!
- Snapshots: Quilter Monica Scott honored
- Snapshots: Bash-ton for Cashton, Mar. 25
- Snapshots: Depot sign preserved, Mar. 15
- Letters: Living on the edge
- Letters: Flush not!
- Letters: Flying Horse North concerns
- Snapshots: Looking south from Higby Road
- Snapshots: Wildfire Preparedness Day, Apr. 2
- Snapshots: Spring seed giveaway, Apr. 2
- Snapshots: Easter Egg Hunt
- Snapshots: Benet Hill makes commitment
- Snapshots: Funds raised for Ukraine, Apr. 21
- Snapshots: FoFRP celebrate Earth Day, Apr. 22
- Snapshots: Fundraiser for teacher
- Snapshots: Monument Lake restocked, Apr. 21
- Snapshots: Fundraiser for Wounded Heros
- Snapshots: Great American Clean-up, Apr. 30
- Snapshots: Work day in Fox Run Park, June 8
- Snapshots: Waterwise garden opened, June 15
- Snapshots: Palmer Lake Historical Society Annual Ice Cream Social, June 19
- Snapshots: TLC reopens client market
- Letters: Black Forest Section 16 lease renewals
- Snapshots: Sunrise over Palmer Lake, June 24
- Snapshots: Parade of Ponds, June 25-26
- Snapshots: Palmer Lake fishing at sunrise
- Snapshots: Explosion of fall flowers, Aug. 27
- Snapshots: UPS ribbon cutting, Aug. 23
- Snapshots: TLWC grant provides cameras
- Snapshots: Miss Monument: PRHS graduate
- Snapshots: National Night Out, Aug. 6
- Snapshots: Party for the Parks, July 16
- Snapshots: Hummingbird Festival, Aug. 5-6
- Snapshots: AARP chapter celebrates 50th
- Snapshots: Black Forest Festival, Aug. 13
- Snapshots: Senior center moves
- Snapshots: Trinity Community Park opens
- Snapshots: DCC Senior Sunrise, Aug. 19
- Snapshots: Hammond heads to Zambia
- Snapshots: Bella Casa moves, Sept. 23
- Snapshots: Luau at JCSL, Sept. 9
- Snapshots: Palmer Lake Wine Festival, Sept. 4
- Snapshots: Shiloh Pines wildfire risk reduction
- Snapshots:
Focusing on the Fight, Sept. 4
- Snapshots:
Chamber at Searle Ranch, Sept. 20
- Snapshots:
NASTaP celebration, Sept. 24
- Snapshots:
Lantern Festival, Oct. 8
- Snapshots:
Palmer Lake 0.5K “race”, Oct. 9
- Snapshots:
Skate Park Murals, Oct. 15
- Snapshots:
Monument Warriors, Oct. 1
- Snapshots:
Front Range Makers Market, Oct. 19
- Snapshots:
Pumpkin Giveaway, Oct. 22
- Snapshots:
JCSL Fall Festival, Oct. 27
- Snapshots:
Trunk or Treat, Oct. 28
- Snapshots: Mt. Herman road closure
- Snapshots: Palmer Lake Star Lighting, Nov. 26
- Snapshots: Historic Barn Razed
- Snapshots: OCN mailing day, Nov. 3
- Snapshots: Chamber host non-profit night
- Snapshots: Small Business Saturday, Nov. 26
- Snapshots: SPCS Chess Tournament, Oct. 1
- Snapshots: Alpaca Extravaganza, Nov. 26-27
- Snapshots: Gobble Squabble, Nov. 19
- Snapshots: Monument tree lighting, Dec. 3
- Snapshots: Monument celebrates Small Town Christmas, Dec. 3
- Snapshots: Chamber Christmas Party, Dec. 20
- Snapshots: Pikes Peak Fireworks, Dec. 31
- An important message for our readers: OCN needs your help!
- Snapshots: Monument Lake closed for sewer replacement project, Dec. 5
- Snapshots: From a reader: The Moon, the Stars, and Mars, Dec. 8
- Snapshots: A Christmas Carol at Palmer Lake Town Hall, Dec. 10
- Snapshots: Wreaths Across America, Dec. 17
- Snapshots: Susan Miner book signing, Jan. 21
- Snapshots: Palmer Lake Outdoor Classic, Jan. 6
- Snapshots: John Howe at Silver Key, Jan. 9
- Snapshots: Waters: Young Marine of the Year
- Snapshots: New wells coming to Monument
- An important message for our readers: OCN
needs your help!
- Snapshots: Wildfire fuels reduction Phase II
- Snapshots: Celebrating Marie West's 100th
- Snapshots: "Grandmother" Tree at Fox Run Park
- Snapshots: Ice fishing on Palmer Lake
- Snapshots: Mardi Gras at the Senior Center
- Snapshots: CPR/AED/First Aid classes
- Snapshots: Wildfire Neighborhood Ambassadors
- Snapshots: Bearbotics at State Championships
- Snapshots: Alpine Essentials Ribbon-Cutting
- Snapshots: Monument water storage tank excavation in Forest View Estates
Snapshots: Tri-Lakes honors Memorial Day
Snapshots: New girl scout troop
Snapshots: Merrick honored for sculpture
Snapshots: Local goalie's team wins big
Snapshots: Monument Glamping ribbon-cutting
Snapshots: Arbor Day at Monument Lake
Snapshots: Flooding in Monument, May 12
Snapshots: Black Forest AARP at Expo
Snapshots: Flying Horse Medical Center
Snapshots: Planned Fox Run Nature Center
Pinion Pines Metropolitan Districts 1 and 2 are in unincorporated El Paso
County, but the commercial section PPMD 3 is within Monument town limits.
It is a service district in El Paso County.
Forest Lakes Metropolitan Disrict is the half-acre
operating district responsible for the public infrastructure and utility and
general governmental services for the residents of PPMD 1, 2, and 3, which
actually collect the property taxes. For more on this topic...
- 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
- Pinon Pines Metropolitan District 1, May 11 and 18: New board directors appointed
- Pinon Pines Metropolitan District 1, July 13: Reduction in mill levy sought; water restrictions, trail closures addressed
- Forest Lakes Metropolitan District and Pinon Pines Metropolitan Districts 2 and 3, Aug. 11: Mandatory water restrictions; southern trail could be extended
- 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
- Forest Lakes Metropolitan District and Pinon Pines Metro Districts 1, 2, and 3, Dec. 7: Wastewater rates increase approved
- Forest Lakes Metropolitan District and Pinon Pines Metro Districts 2 and 3, May 27: Wells pursued; water purchase 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
- Forest Lakes Metropolitan District and Pinon Pines Metropolitan Districts 2 and 3, Aug. 16: Denver well moving forward; long-term water solutions discussed
- 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
- Forest Lakes Metropolitan District and Pinon Pines Metropolitan Districts 2 and 3, Feb. 7: Contract for an emergency interconnection approved
- Forest Lakes Metropolitan District and Pinon Pines Metropolitan Districts 1, 2, and 3, July 11 and 28: Residents rely on lake water; new trail approved
- Forest Lakes Metropolitan District & Pinon Pines Metropolitan Districts 1, 2 & 3, Sept. 12: Northern Monument Creek Interceptor design phase moves forward
- Forest Lakes Metropolitan District & Pinon Pines Metropolitan Districts 1, 2 and 3, Dec. 5: Rate increases for residents; 2023 budgets and mill levies adopted

The Tri-Lakes environment is threatened by many types of pollution. There are steps residents and business owners can take to help. For more on this topic...
While sales and income taxes are well understood, many have questions about property taxes, mill levies, and special districts. For more on this topic...
OCN has been carrying information for Tri-Lakes area residents on how to properly dispose of unwanted items and remove wildfire fuel. Sites for recycling
plants is also a local issue. For more on this topic...
OCN has carried a series of musings on life by Tri-Lakes area residents. For more on this topic...
A proposal in 2018 to convert the Ramada Inn on Woodmoor Drive to a drug and alcohol rehabilitation facility was greeted by stiff opposition.
For more on this topic...
Roads throughout the Tri-Lakes area are a critical element of the infrastructure. For example, in Monument 2nd Street is has been extended from Beacon Lite Road to connect with the Highway 105 bridge over I-25. Also Beacon Lite Road has been extended to connect with the Old Denver Highway. Jackson Creek Parkway has been constructed from Highway 105 to Higby. For more on these and other road stories...
- Classic Homes proposes new road plan for Sanctuary Pointe
- El Paso Board of County Commissioners, Dec. 28, Jan. 16 and 23: Jackson Ranch development moves forward; more discussion of the I-25 gap project
- CDOT Listening Session receives strong opposition to I-25 express lane
- Tolled express lane certain
- Snapshots: Monument sidewalks
- Snapshots: Digging into safer, more efficient travel
- Snapshots: I-25 gap open house, Feb. 7
- Snapshots: Monument water line break repaired
- Snapshots: New signal on Highway 83
- Snapshots: New traffic light on 83, Sep. 5
- Drivers on I-25 cautioned to "heed the speed"
- Colorado Department of Transportation, Sept. 17: I-25 South Gap project: safety, cost-effectiveness, reliability
- County Line Road bridge reconstruction
- Snapshots: Woodmoor sinkhole, Oct. 22
- Snapshots: Furrow Road extension, Nov. 4
- CDOT Listening Session, June 29: Roundabout project being designed
- Snapshots: Furrow Road extension postponed
See also coverage on Baptist Road
The Tri-Lakes area is blessed with a variety of non-profit and service organizations. Here is information on some of them and their activities:
- Snapshots: Monumental Impact
- Snapshots: Harvest of Love
- Snapshots: National Wreaths Across America
- Snapshots: Red Kettle Campaign
- Snapshots: Monumental Impact donates to TLC
- Snapshots: TreeCycle, Jan. 2
- Snapshots: Red Kettle donations, Jan. 14
- Snapshots: Ham radio field day, Jan. 30
- Snapshots: LEOs sort eyeglass donations
- Snapshots: Virtual wine tasting fund raiser
- Snapshots: Tri-Lakes Women’s Club contest raises over $10,000
- Snapshots: Palmer Lake bridge plaques
- Snapshots: TLC Boot Barn Fundraiser, Apr. 23
- Snapshots: Reynolds Ranch House, Apr. 24
- Snapshots: Earth Day at Fox Run Park, Apr. 22
- Snapshots: Operation Gratitude, Apr. 23
- Snapshots: TLC Boot Barn Fundraiser, Apr. 23
- Snapshots: 100+ Women Who Care, Apr. 21
- Snapshots: Great American Clean Up, Apr. 24
- Snapshots: Gravestone cleaning, Apr. 6
- Snapshots: Higby Road cleanup, Apr. 25
- Snapshots: Lions Club Fishing Derby, June 5
- Snapshots: DAR plants perennials, June 8
- Snapshots: WMMI Family Day, June 12
- Snapshots: TLC Appreciation Day, June 23
- Snapshots: MCSS needs drivers
- Snapshots: Purely Ponds Parade
- Snapshots: PLHS Ice Cream Social, June 20
- Snapshots:
Monument Street Fair, July 3
- Snapshots:
Jackson Creek Chipping Day, July 10
- Snapshots: Lodge honors five
- Snapshots:
Sertoma places flags
- Snapshots: WMMI Family Day, Aug. 7
- Snapshots: Repairing trails at Fox Run Regional Park
- Snapshots: Cruisers donate to TLC, Sept. 24
- Snapshots: American Heritage Girls, Oct. 1
- Snapshots: PLAG Show, Oct. 8
- Snapshots: DAR work on Fox Run Park, Oct. 9
- Snapshots: 100+ Women Who Care, Oct. 20
- Snapshots: PLAG makes Holiday ornaments
- Snapshots: Teens help clean up the community garden
- Snapshots: WMMI Oct. events
- Snapshots: Awake Palmer Lake .5K, Oct. 10
- Snapshots: Cruisers elects new board, Nov. 3
- Snapshots: Cruisers donate to TLC, Nov. 19
- Snapshots: EIS volunteers help fire victims
- Snapshots: Forest appreciation walk, Nov. 13
- Snapshots: Ringing the bell, Nov. 15
- Snapshots: Black Forest AARP returns
- Snapshots: MPD, PLPD Santa on Patrol, Dec. 18
- Snapshots: Ornament Party, Dec 11
- Letters: Every penny counts
- Snapshots: Boy Scouts Honored Vets, Nov. 8
- Snapshots: TLMA Benefit Concert, Dec. 18
- Snapshots: Wreaths Across America, Dec. 18
- Snapshots: TLWC helps Monumental Impact
- Snapshots: Bell Ringing, Dec. 18
- Snapshots: North Pole Fair, Dec. 4
- Snapshots: Tip-A-Cop, Dec. 9
- Snapshots: Key Club Volunteers at TLC, Dec. 15
- Snapshots: TLWC gardening event, Jan. 12
- Snapshots: TLWC wine tasting, Jan. 21
- Snapshots: Lions honor Strong, Jan. 6
- Snapshots: Red Kettles collect more than $32K
- Snapshots: TLWC gets CPR training, Feb. 7
- Snapshots: TLWC builds beds for needy kids
- Snapshots:
TLWC donates gift cards, Mar. 20
- Snapshots: Three become Eagle Scouts, Apr. 9
- Snapshots: 100+ Women Who Care, Apr. 20
- Snapshots: TLWC grant in action, Apr. 18
- Snapshots: WMMI Lecture, May 10
- Snapshots: Gleneagle Sertoma presents checks
- Snapshots: Tri-Lakes Lions Club Fishing Derby, June 4
- Letters: Thanks for helping put on theTri-Lakes Kids Fishing Derby
- Snapshots: Ham radio field day, June 25
- Snapshots: Friends of Fox Run Park trail work
- Snapshots: Wynn named Sertoman of the Year
- Snapshots:
WMMI Family History Day, Aug. 20
- Letters: Thanks to Tri-Lakes Women’s Club for supporting youth baseball
- Snapshots: Regional Sertoman of the Year
- Snapshots: TL Cruisers Car Show, Aug. 28
- Letters: Thanks to the Kiwanis Monument Foundation
- Snapshots: 100+ Women Who Care, Oct. 19
- Snapshots: TLC Client Appreciation, Oct. 31
- Snapshots: WMMI Pumpkin Patch, Oct. 1
- Snapshots: Empty Bowls raised over $19K
- Snapshots: Silver Key at Tri-Lakes ribbon cutting
- Snapshots: Ham Radio Tech Day, Oct. 29
- Snapshots: Cruisers donate food to TLC
- Snapshots: Monument Hill Kiwanis sponsors North Pole Craft Fair, Dec. 3
- Snapshots: Monument Hill Kiwanis rang the bell at King Soopers and Walmart
- Snapshots: Shield616 awards Monument PD protective gear, Dec. 5
- Snapshots: Friends of Fox Run Park Ornament Party, Dec. 10
- Snapshots: TLWC to accept 2023 grant applications starting Jan. 15
- Snapshots: Tri-Lakes Cruisers installs officers
- Snapshots: Friends of Fox Run Park fundraiser
- Snapshots: Kiwanis talent show auditions
- Snapshots: Scout seeks to honor WWII vets
- Snapshots: Black Forest Boy Scout Chili Supper
- Snapshots: Wildfire mitigation
- Snapshots: Palmer Lake Valentine's Dinner
- Snapshots: TLWCC makes beds for needy kids
- Snapshots: Gleneagle Egg Hunt
- Snapshots: FOMP Trail Night
- Snapshots: Friends of Fox Run Park
- Snapshots: TLC appreciates MHKC
- Snapshots: Tri-Lakes Cares Garden
- Snapshots: 100+ Women Who Care
- Snapshots: TLWC named Non-Profit of the Year
- Snapshots: TLWC donates to first responders
- Snapshots: Sertoma fallen officer donation
- Snapshots: Cotton wins PLAG scholarship
- Snapshots: Donations to Literacy Center
Snapshots: TLC STABLe graduation, May 23
Colorado State Statute 24-6-402 is known as the Open Meetings Law or the Meetings section of the
Sunshine Law. Much misinformation has circulated about the statute and its application. For more on this topic...
Tri-Lakes Land Use Committee
The Tri-Lakes Land Use Committee met in December 2015 to reform what has been for years an inactive group in the community. The committee aims to form and maintain working relationships with the county, towns, and in the Tri-Lakes area with the ultimate goal of reviewing current land use requests. For more on this topic...

The Monument Sanitation District, Palmer Lake Sanitation District, and the Woodmoor Water and Sanitation District jointly operate the facility and manage it through the Joint Use Committee. For more on this topic...
- Tri-Lakes Wastewater Treatment Facility Joint Use Committee, Jan. 14: Total phosphorus treatment under way
- Tri-Lakes Wastewater Treatment Facility Joint Use Committee, Feb. 11: Unexpected benefits apparent in new clarifier system
- Tri-Lakes Wastewater Facility Joint Use Committee, March 10: Plans reviewed for uninterrupted wastewater facility operations
- Tri-Lakes Wastewater Facility Joint Use Committee, Sept. 9: Budget, sampling, and sharing knowledge
- Tri-Lakes Wastewater Facility Joint Use Committee, Oct. 13: Dealing with issues one at a time
- Tri-Lakes Wastewater Treatment Facility Joint Use Committee, Jan. 12: What regulations will be coming down the pipe?
- Tri-Lakes Wastewater Facility Joint Use Committee, March 9: Cost-sharing method confirmed
- Tri-Lakes Wastewater Treatment Facility Joint Use Committee, Oct. 12: Master plan update scheduled for 2022
- Tri-Lakes Wastewater Treatment Facility Joint Use Committee, Dec. 14: Another successful year appreciated
- Tri-Lakes Wastewater Treatment Facility Joint Use Committee, Jan. 11: Radium ramifications in biosolids considered
- Tri-Lakes Wastewater Facility Joint Use Committee, April 12: Sludge lagoon flips
- Tri-Lakes Wastewater Facility Joint Use Committee, June 14: Three districts leaning against wastewater regionalization
- Tri-Lakes Wastewater Treatment Facility Joint Use Committee, Sept. 20: 2023 budget planning begins; costs increasing
Triview is a Title 32 special district within Monument that
provides road, landscaping, and open space maintenance, and water and wastewater
services to Jackson Creek, Promontory Pointe, Sanctuary Pointe, and several
commercial areas. For more on this topic...
- Triview Metropolitan District, Nov. 20:
October’s record snowfall and cold temperatures stall Jackson Creek Parkway progress
- Triview Metropolitan District, Dec. 11:
Rates up, mills down
- Triview Metropolitan District, Jan. 22: Misinformation dispelled and actions approved
- Triview Metropolitan District, Feb. 19: Coming to Triview homes: new water meter technology
- Triview Metropolitan District, March 18: New NMCI role explored; COVID-19 addressed
- Triview Metropolitan District, April 22: Resolutions mark significant changes
- Triview Metropolitan District, May 20: Big water rights and water storage plans advance
- Triview Metropolitan District, June 16 and 17: District responds to social media commentary
- Triview Metropolitan District, July 23: District pursues Nov. 3 ballot initiative
- Triview Metro. District, Aug. 18: Working to keep developments and financial strength aligned
- Triview Metropolitan District, Sept. 15: Triview wins Colorado State accolade for JCP project
- Triview Metropolitan District, Oct. 6 and 22: Scammer masquerading as Triview personnel?
- Triview Metro District, Nov. 19: District contemplates decrease in mills and change in address
- Triview Metropolitan District, Dec. 10: $5.5 million for water storage tops 2021 list of needs reserves
- Triview Metropolitan District, Dec. 28 and Jan. 21: Renewable water resource secured
- Triview Metropolitan District, Feb. 18: District strives to create robust water system
- Triview Metropolitan District, March 18: Warmer weather gives rise to project activity
- Triview Metropolitan District, April 29 and May 20: Big summer project: boring under I-25
- Triview Metropolitan District, June 17: Board decisions continue water progress and potential road collaboration
- Triview Metropolitan District, July 22: Conexus warehouse plans explained; audit nears completion
- Triview Metropolitan District, Aug. 19: Public safety, a common priority
- Triview Metropolitan District, Sept. 16: Filtering, transporting, storing, and acquiring water
- Triview Metropolitan District, Oct. 21: District might expand service boundary
- Triview Metropolitan District, Nov. 17 and 18: Potential regional water system becomes more tangible
- Triview Metropolitan District, Dec. 14: Triview to provide Forest Lakes Metro District operator services
- Triview Metropolitan District, Jan. 20 and 24: Water lease agreements authorized
- Triview Metropolitan District, Feb. 17: Water lease agreements amended
- Triview Metro District, March 17: NDS route decision looms near
- Triview Metropolitan District, April 21: More details revealed about regional water delivery system
- Triview Metropolitan District, May 19: Water rights purchase leads to Buena Vista visioning
- Triview Metropolitan District, July 20: Moving forward with NMCI
- Triview Metropolitan District, Aug. 18: 2021 audit receives "clean opinion"; sewer cleaning truck approved
- Triview Metropolitan District, Sept. 15: Contract awarded; district receives funding
- Triview Metropolitan District, Oct. 20: Home Rule Charter concerns; Northern Delivery System pipeline details laid out
- Triview Metropolitan District, Nov. 17: Colorado Springs Utilities contract awaiting approval
- Triview Metropolitan District, Dec. 13: 2023 budget approved; NDS timeline
- Triview Metropolitan District, Jan. 19: Rate increases approved; NDS pipeline project moving along
- Triview Metropolitan District, Feb. 16: Assistant manager hired; district receives $3.4 million
- Triview Metropolitan District, March 23: District will hold election; multiple contracts approved
- Triview Board Candidate Statements
- Triview Metropolitan District, April 20: Northern Delivery System pipeline installation begins
Triview Metropolitan District, May 18: Former directors recognized; new directors sworn in
Village Center Metropolitan District
Village Center Metro District is located south of Highway 105 and East Knollwood Drive and provides several essential services for the Village Center community including maintenance of the streets, snow removal, and maintenance of the storm water system and the common areas. On May 24, 2013, the El Paso County Clerk and Recorder’s Office announced that there are two separate recall petitions for two members of The Village Center Metropolitan District, Bruce Hacker and Steven Barr. For more on this topic...
This special district was approved at the Monument Board of Trustees (BOT) Aug. 6, 2018 meeting for the developer, ProTerra Properties LLC.
The property, on the west side of Old Denver Road, north of the Monument ice rink and south of Trails End, was annexed into the town on Dec. 4, 2017.
The associated service plan provides initial improvements to the land and includes ongoing maintenance of the open space, detention pond, and park.
Once the metro district builds the assets, all will be gifted to existing service providers because the plan does not provide ongoing services associated with the improvements.
For more on this topic...
Water is a critical resource all along the front range. For more on this topic...
For more articles on Tri-Lakes area water supplies, see also the
Academy Water and Sanitation District,
Donala Water and Sanitation District,
Forest View Acres Water District,
Monument Board of Trustees,
Monument Dam and Lake,
Palmer Lake Town Council and Planning Commission,
Triview Metropolitan District, and the
Woodmoor Water and Sanitation District topics.

As the largest homeowners association in the Tri-Lakes area, WIA has to deal with a variety of issues. For more on this topic...
- Woodmoor Improvement Association, July 22: Board levies fire fines, approves improvements to the Barn
- Woodmoor Improvement Association, Aug. 26: Board fills vacancy, approves roof work on Barn
- Woodmoor Improvement Association, Sept. 23: Board begins five-year trail and open space improvement plan
- Woodmoor Improvement Association, Oct. 28: Board approves replacement of Barn windows
- Woodmoor Improvement Association, Dec. 18: Board approves budget, plans common areas improvements
- Woodmoor Improvement Association, Jan. 27: Board shares annual report, organizes for
- Woodmoor Improvement Association, Feb. 24: Board hears certified election results, reviews finances
- Woodmoor Improvement Association, March 24: Updates on developments including the Walters property
- Woodmoor Improvement Association, April 28 and May 26: Board discusses Furrow Road traffic, trash service
- Woodmoor Improvement Association, June 30 and July 28: WOSC requests easement clarification; board discusses fire danger
- Woodmoor Improvement Association, Aug. 25:
Board discusses tall grass and resident communication
- Woodmoor Improvement Association, Sept. 22: Board hears owner’s concerns, discusses fee increases
- Woodmoor Improvement Association, Oct. 27: Board recognizes Chief Kevin Nielsen for 30 years of service
- Woodmoor Improvement Association, Nov. 17: Board raises dues, fines, and fees
- Woodmoor Improvement Association, Dec. 15: Middle school speed limit signs to be reinstated
- Woodmoor Improvement Association, Jan. 31 and Feb. 23: Annual Meeting and Reorganization
- Woodmoor Improvement Association, March 23:
Board accepts open space donation, discusses upcoming developments
- Woodmoor Improvement Association, April 27: Board discusses subdivision, fire insurance, short-term rentals
- Woodmoor Improvement Association, May 25: Board hears suggestions on replatting guidelines
- Woodmoor Improvement Association, June 22: All fireworks prohibited; up to $5,000 fine
- Snapshots: WIA chipping days, June 25-26
- Woodmoor Improvement Association, July 20: Board hears resident concerns about open space improvements
- Snapshots: Open space deeded to WIA
- Woodmoor Improvement Association, Aug. 24: Residents bring lawyer to subdivision appeal, hear about D38 MLO
- Woodmoor Improvement Association, Sept. 28 and Oct. 26: Owners raise concerns about excess dogs, new open space
- Woodmoor Improvement Association, Nov. 16: Board passes budget, increases annual dues
- Woodmoor Improvement Association, Jan. 30, Feb. 1 and 23: Annual meeting, reorganization, and signage
- Woodmoor Improvement Association, March 22: Board approves revisions to design manual
Woodmoor Improvement Association, May 24: Board hears about new regulation regarding vegetable gardensWoodmoor Improvement Association, April 26: Board considers common area concerns
Water and sewage services to Woodmoor are provided by the Woodmoor Water and Sanitation District. For more on this topic...
- Woodmoor Water and Sanitation District, Jan. 11: Board considers non-potable water strategy
- Woodmoor Water and Sanitation District, Feb. 8: Regional water re-use project planning underway
- Woodmoor Water and Sanitation District, March 8: Capital projects and water re-use plan move forward
- Woodmoor Water and Sanitation District, April 12: Cost of water re-use study increases
- Woodmoor Water and Sanitation District, May 10: Board plans to refinance bonds, replace old meters
- Woodmoor Water and Sanitation District, June 21 and July 12: District bond refinancing plan approved
- Woodmoor Water and Sanitation District, Aug. 9: $6.8 million in savings expected from bond refinancing
- Woodmoor Water and Sanitation District, Sept. 13: Savings from bond refinancing exceed expectations
- Woodmoor Water and Sanitation District, Oct. 10: Irrigation water policy examined
- Woodmoor Water and Sanitation District, Nov. 15: Rates likely to rise in 2022
- Woodmoor Water and Sanitation District, Dec. 20: New year to bring new rates; lake trail to be temporarily closed
- Woodmoor Water and Sanitation District, Jan. 10:
Water supply examined; new well
- Woodmoor Water and Sanitation District, Feb. 14: Board amends sick leave policy
- Woodmoor Water and Sanitation District, March 14: Board approves upgrade to golf course sanitation facilities
- Woodmoor Water and Sanitation District, April 21: Board approves supplemental water; Deer Creek Road to be closed
- Woodmoor Water and Sanitation District, May 9: Barrie Town joins board; supplemental water approved for Monument Junction west
- Woodmoor Water and Sanitation District, June 13: Board opts out of state medical leave act
- Woodmoor Water and Sanitation District, July 18: Audit shows sound finances
- Woodmoor Water and Sanitation District, Aug. 18: Residents question water taste and availability
- Woodmoor Water and Sanitation District, Sept. 12: Long-range plan turns away from additional wells
- Woodmoor Water and Sanitation District, Oct. 13: Board proceeds with long-range plan
- Woodmoor Water and Sanitation District, Nov. 17: Water and sewer rates to rise
- Woodmoor Water and Sanitation District, Dec. 21: Board approves rate increases for 2023
- Woodmoor Water and Sanitation District, Jan. 9: Board sets rules for new year
- Woodmoor Water and Sanitation District, Feb. 13: Board permits Monument Academy to build road to ease traffic
- Woodmoor Water and Sanitation District, March 13: New technology for sewer maintenance
- Woodmoor Water and Sanitation District, April 10: Trail agreement with school district approved
Woodmoor Water and Sanitation District, May 8: Board reorganized; request for supplemental water considered
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