Outlook Magazine - Winter 2022

A new term

We are excited for all 2023 will bring, including a second term as Castle Rock’s Mayor and an eighth year overseeing the Town’s day-to-day operations as Town Manager.

Looking back over the last four years, we recall a number of accomplishments on the community’s behalf:

In 2019, we opened Deputy Zack S. ParrishIII Memorial Park and began construction on Legacy Trail, which volunteers just completed at Gateway Mesa Open Space. Also in 2019, Arapahoe Community College’s Sturm Collaboration Campus opened, bringing higher education opportunities to Castle Rock.

We all know that 2020 threw the entire world a curveball, but that didn’t slow down the Town’s service delivery. Through a partnership with the Castle Rock Parks and Trails Foundation, we opened the FitGround near the Challenge Hill at Philip S. Miller Park. Castle Rock Water also began delivering reuse water – a cost-effective, environmentally sound and sustainable water supply critical to securing the Town’s water future – in this same timeframe.

Meanwhile, Castle Rock Police Department launched programs to enhance community safety including Rock Watch home security camera registration and the RUOK? senior outreach service. Roadwork continued to be a constant as the Town maintained its infrastructure investments and added capacity to its streets. And, planning toward future Fire Department needs remained a priority, with an eye on future stations.

Bookending the past four years, the Town in 2022 opened another new park: Cobblestone Ranch Park. More park improvements are coming – see Pages 16 and 17 to learn more.

We are proud to be able to provide these amenities to the community and look forward to continuing to serve you in the years ahead.

MAYOR JASON GRAY Mayor@CRgov.com

TOWN MANAGER DAVID L. CORLISS TownManager@CRgov.com

Town Manager David L. Corliss (left) and Mayor Jason Gray

Looking forward

Councilmembers' wishes for 2023

Mayor Jason Gray

Heading into 2023, I wish that we would take a step back, slow down and make time to appreciate our loved ones, the amazing community we live in and the beauty that surrounds us in Castle Rock. Be slow to anger and practice grace, love and patience with family, friends, coworkers, neighbors and strangers.

In the new year, my wish is for residents to get outside and hike a new trail or attend some community events – there’s so much to do and experience within the 34 square miles of Castle Rock. In 2023, we’ll be finishing the parking lot at the Metzler Family Open Space so residents will have easy access to explore the property and hike the new soft-surface trails. The Butterfield Crossing Park renovations will be complete, along with the new fully inclusive Possibilities Playground. And, the new Colorado Front Range Trail connections will be completed next fall, connecting Colorado Springs to the Cherry Creek Regional Trail. I’m also particularly excited that the Town may have the opportunity to acquire the historic Cantril School from the Douglas County School District. Our hope is to preserve the building’s historic character and make it a facility the community at large can use and enjoy for years to come. Stay tuned for more on this initiative.

mayor@CRgov.com • 303-663-4401

My wish for Castle Rock in 2023 is that we all remember that a great community starts with each one of us individually. I hope that everyone can find the time to reach out to their neighbors, lend a helping hand where needed, and ask for help if you need it. I hope we all find time to enjoy all Castle Rock has to offer and get outside a little more, celebrate as a community a little more, and pull together when there is a need. Happy New Year, Castle Rock!

rhollingshead@CRgov.com • 720-733-3585

I wish for Castle Rock residents to continue to thrive in our community. To enjoy all our parks and open space and to feel safe knowing that we are investing heavily in our police and fire. I also wish for our community to continue to stand together, support each other in the tough times and the prosperous times, and lend a hand to those in need. I have seen this community come together time and again, and it’s amazing to see. These are the things that make Castle Rock so special and such a wonderful place to live.

lcavey@CRgov.com • 303-663-4406

In the new year, I wish for the health and safety of all Castle Rock youth. Drive safe and be well. May God bless your family with a successful, healthy and happy 2023!

kbracken@CRgov.com 303-663-4402

District 1 Councilmember Ryan Hollingshead

District 3 Councilmember Kevin Bracken

District 2 Councilmember Laura Cavey

Welcome

District 5 Councilmember Max Brooks

First elected in 2022. Term expires in 2026.

Councilmember Brooks was raised in Colorado and worked for nearly 20 years with 850 KOA radio. He currently works in marketing and advertising.

Councilmember Brooks has lived in Castle Rock since 2006 and since 2008 has served on Town boards and commissions including the Design Review Board and Planning and Water commissions.

He additionally has served on the Castlewood Ranch homeowners association and metropolitan district boards; has coached and umpired youth baseball; and is an avid gardener.

His family includes a fiancée, three sons, three stepdaughters, two dogs and two cats.

Councilmember Brooks’ wish for 2023

My wish for 2023 is to get even more connected to my community as Castle Rock’s newest Town Council member. In that role, I hope to help ensure the Town’s growth is carefully planned and that we can continue to recruit the best staff to serve our community – particularly in our public safety departments. I look forward to meeting many of you who are reading this and hope you have a safe and happy start to 2023.

mbrooks@CRgov.com | Visit CRgov.com/District5 for phone number

District 6

I would like to thank our incredible community for making Castle Rock so special. Whether we come together to celebrate time-honored events or overcome adversity, we are Castle Rock Strong!

My wish for 2023 … let an adventure steal you away. Look after one another and do things that make your heart smile.

Many blessings to you and yours!

dlafleur@CRgov.com • 303-660-1384

My wish for Castle Rock in 2023 is that Town residents would be thankful for the beautiful area of Colorado that we get to live in and enjoy. That our Town's businesses will continue to flourish. That our growth will always remember to value the quaint charm of Castle Rock that brings community members and visitors here. That the people who serve in our community, like our first responders, teachers, Town staff and church/civic groups, will stay strong and safe as they continue to pour into the lives of our residents. That the residents of our Town would help others see the "heart” of Castle Rock by reaching out to those in need in our community this Christmas season and throughout the coming year.

tdietz@CRgov.com • 303-663-4405

Mayor Jason Gray, center, talks to community members.

District 4 Councilmember Desiree LaFleur

Councilmember Tim Dietz

Holiday

LIGHT UP THE NIGHT

Sleigh bells are ringing, and the snow is glistening. It’s beginning to look a lot like Christmas in Castle Rock.

Starting each October, the Town’s Parks staff works hard to deck the halls of Downtown. It takes between six and seven weeks for the team to string up more than 100,000 lights and nearly 1,000 feet of garland.

While an outside company takes care of the 40-foot fully decorated tree at Festival Park and the “blue” tree at Douglas

County Wilcox Building, the Parks team is in charge of decorating elsewhere Downtown. That includes the white lights that adorn the more than 200 trees along Wilcox and Perry streets, holiday lights on Town Hall and Police Headquarters, and the rest of the decorations at Festival Park.

Most residents would agree, the holidays would not be the same without the golden lights lining the Downtown streets, the tree standing proudly in Festival Park and The Star overlooking the community as it has each holiday season since the 1930s.

Learn about the Season of the Star at CRgov.com/StarSeason.

lights shine at the Douglas County Wilcox Building.

Season of the Star events

The Season of the Star is a special time in Castle Rock when The Star atop The Rock is illuminated and Downtown shines bright with thousands of twinkling lights. The beloved season starts with the lighting of The Star as part of the Starlighting festivities the Saturday before Thanksgiving and ends as The Star turns off at the culmination of the National Western Stock Show on Jan. 22. Learn about the events that take place during Season of the Star at CRgov.com/StarSeason.

Christmas tree recycling available

Give one last holiday gift to the environment by taking your live Christmas tree to be recycled at one of three participating parks or the Douglas County Fairgrounds between Monday, Dec. 26, and Tuesday, Jan. 31.

• Founders Park, 3671 Enderud Blvd.

• Metzler Ranch Park, 4175 Trail Boss Drive

• Paintbrush Park, 3492 Meadows Blvd.

• Douglas County Fairgrounds, 500 Fairgrounds Drive – for tree drop off and mulch pick up

Trees are made into mulch, which is made available to the public for pickup between Dec. 26-Jan. 31 at the Fairgrounds location only. Mulch is available on-site, while supplies last and on a self-serve basis.

The Christmas tree recycling program is part of the Town’s Project Green environmental initiative. Learn more at CRgov.com/TreeRecycle.

Is it Fact or Fiction?

If you have questions about your Town, we want to help you get accurate information. Visit CRgov.com/Facts to submit your question. Find the answers to questions other residents have asked on the same webpage. The Fact or Fiction page is a one-stop resource for important topics in the community.

PulsePoint app saves lives

From traffic collisions, utility emergencies, fires and more –Castle Rock Fire and Rescue wants you to stay in the know about what is happening in Castle Rock. Download the free PulsePoint app today at PulsePoint.org/download and start following CRFD.

PulsePoint is a 911-connected app that immediately informs you of emergencies occurring in your community; it also can request your help when CPR is needed nearby.* These alerts are in real-time and simultaneous with the dispatch of medical care, allowing everyday citizens to be the help until help arrives.

In addition to nearby “CPR needed” notifications, you can choose to be notified of events that may impact you and your family. These informational notifications provide an early heads-up to local threats such as structure fires, vegetation fires, flooding and utility emergencies.

*PulsePoint will not notify subscribers if a cardiac arrest happens inside a private residence, only public locations.

Reduce the risk of porch pirates

Don’t let the Grinch ruin the holidays! According to SafeWise, 210 million packages were taken from porches across the country over the past 12 months - Denver was rated the worst metro city for package theft in 2021! Here are a few tips to protect your packages from porch pirates:

• Have packages delivered somewhere else, such as your workplace or to a neighbor who is home.

• Install a home security system or video doorbell.

• If you have a security camera, sign up for Castle Rock Police Department’s Rock Watch program, and you might be able to help CRPD catch the bad guys. Learn more and sign up at CRgov.com/RockWatch.

Fireworks blast off during the Starlighting event.

Economic impact of Castle Rock development

Castle Rock has consistently been a desirable location for families. With a low crime rate, open spaces, family friendly amenities and prime positioning on the Front Range, it’s no wonder the Town of Castle Rock continues to grow. But, population growth doesn’t always translate to new development. The economy plays a major role on when construction of a new housing development gets a green light.

When the COVID-19 pandemic hit in 2020, municipalities across the country braced for the worst. It was an unprecedented situation that no governing body had experienced in a century. The Town, like other communities, expected to experience a downturn in development. But,

that’s not what happened. Over two years into the pandemic, the Town continued to receive a surprisingly steady level of new housing development applications. This outcome wasn’t unique to Castle Rock, as the State of Colorado outperformed the rest of the nation and other states in job recovery and growth.

Over the course of the pandemic, many Castle Rock residents changed to a work-fromhome culture, staying within Town limits to shop and order takeout from local restaurants. That turn of events, coupled with an increase in home improvement projects, kept tax revenues steadily growing. Overall, Castle Rock remained a desirable community to live in, and the residential real estate market stayed strong.

Development Services staff provides information, answers questions about the building process and collects fees.

Ultimately, how quickly the development process moves depends on multiple factors, including a series of required Town meetings, inspections and permits. A development can take a few years from the initial application until the first certificate of occupancy is issued.

Recently, rising mortgage rates and speculation about a looming recession have been reflected in the number of new building applications the Town has received.

Over the last 20 years, Castle Rock has averaged about 800 new single-family permits a year. The start of 2022 was as strong as ever. But, by October 2022, the Town saw a steep decline, only receiving 638 year-todate single-family home permits – down 45% from 2021. As of the writing of this article, the Town was receiving about one new residential home-building application per day.

Today, developers are more sensitive to shifts in the real estate market. In the past, they worked toward completing entire communities. Due to this old philosophy, some projects went belly-up in the middle of construction as a result of the 2008-2009 market recession. Now, developers tend to build according to market need, often constructing a neighborhood in smaller phases and breaking ground on single-family homes according to demand.

The pace of community development ebbs and flows as the market adjusts.

As the economy and mortgage rates continue to shift, development within the Town may mirror a similar, yet delayed, pattern to past years. The Colorado Futures Center's economic forecast predicts the start of 2023 in Colorado to slow to less

than a 1% annual growth rate – a major change from the average 3.26% annual growth from 2017-2021.

The economy and lending rates will always have an impact on development activities in the community. No matter what the economic impact, the Town will continue to ensure zoning and development plans are

" 2021 was a strong permitting year for singlefamily homes. Last year, we had issued 1,167 new single-family home permits through the end of October. In comparison, by the end of October 2022, we had issued only 638. This drop is in direct relation to the housing market and lending rates."

TARA VARGISH Development Services Director

held to the highest degree of scrutiny.

Special attention is paid to every application, making certain Town codes are enforced and result in quality construction. These are essential goals when maintaining our vibrant and safe community with a distinctive character.

The pace of development within Castle Rock has generally corresponded with economic cycles

How is the current economic climate affecting future development?

Winter is here

and our Snowfighters are standing by to help

Every fall, a team of about 80 Town employees comes together to prepare for the unexpected. Winter weather in Colorado is unpredictable, but when the snow flies, they’re ready to take care of over 740 lane miles in Town to minimize the downtime to residents’ day-to-day rhythm.

Meet the Town of Castle Rock Snowfighters

“During our annual Snowfighter training, we’re laying down expectations and going over the best techniques to plow snow,” explained Street Operations and Maintenance Division Manager Dan Lord.

As part of the training, team members start in the classroom for a refresher on Town snow policies, levels of service and emergency management. Then, all field members of the Snowfighters complete hands-on training. They focus on snow removal techniques to properly move the plow blade.

“Of course, I'm proud of our Snowfighter team,” says Lord. “We have a great group of people ready for any heavy-weather event. This isn’t just Public Works responding to snow, it’s a Townwide response. Parks and Recreation, Development Services, Castle Rock Water and more pull in all available resources to get the Town back together. The dedication and cooperation are outstanding.”

In preparation for this year’s winter season, the Town incorporated new methods for snow management. For example, residents should watch for new snow route signage Downtown. From Dec. 1 through March 31, there will be no parking on portions of Third and Fourth

Snow removal strategies

LINE LOT CORNER LOT

PROPERTY LINE PROPERTY LINE

streets from midnight to 7 a.m. Signs have been placed marking these areas so plows can remove snow in hard-to-clear sections.

Beginning this year, the Town will only use one type of salt treatment on the roads: ice slicer. This material is effective down to zero degrees, whereas most salt mixtures stop working at 15 degrees. When temperatures are expected to remain lower than zero degrees, the Town will use a gravel mix to maintain traction. To lower environmental impacts

and preserve the Town’s stormwater system, the Snowfighters optimize the amount of product used while delivering enough of a punch to get the job done.

“We’re confident that our Snowfighters are ready to make a positive impact on the Town this winter season,” said Public Works Director Dan Sailer. “Our goal is to minimize downtime so that emergency services can get to where they are needed, and residents can focus on the activities that are most important to them.”

Snow response battle plan:

When it’s time to deploy plows, the Town addresses primary streets first, then moves to residential streets. Please know, from Nov.15 to March 15, snow accumulation on residential streets must reach 4 inches before being cleared by plows.

• Priority No. 1: High-volume primary streets that connect major sections of Town

• Priority No. 2: Smaller primary streets and roads that provide access to schools

• Priority No. 3: Residential streets

• Priority No. 4: Cul-de-sacs and alleyways

PROPERTY LINE

IDEAL PLACEMENT OF SNOW Curb, gutter & sidewalk to be cleared of snow & ice by property owner

We have a great group of people ready for any heavyweather event. "

"

This waterline replacement is an example of a recent capital improvement project paid for by Castle Rock Water's rates and fees.

This waterline replacement is an example of a recent capital improvement project paid for by Castle Rock Water's rates and fees.

Annual rates-and-fees study keeps finances flowing in the right direction

In more ways than one, Castle Rock Water is unique. While included in the Town of Castle Rock organization, the department provides services more like a private business and financially stands alone – no taxes nor general funds are used for its operations. Instead, only rates and fees received from residential and nonresidential customers go to the purchase of water resources; operations, treatment and maintenance costs; and other aspects of running the business. Castle Rock Water is also a cost-of-service entity, meaning customers are only charged what is needed. Any funds received are identified or reserved for a specific operation or project.

For effective financial management, a close eye is kept on revenues and costs of the organization through an annual rates-andfees study. Conducting analysis and modeling every year gives Castle Rock Water the ability to smooth out potential rate changes and minimize the impact to customers. The department can also react quickly to economic conditions such as supply chain issues or inflation. This is critical, given many projects take multiple years to complete.

The study consists of modeling that currently forecasts to 2065. Personnel, energy, chemicals, supplies, capital improvement projects, rehabilitation and repair of aging infrastructure, and water demand are considered. Best-case and worst-case scenarios are measured. And, if costs get too high and a significant rate increase is predicted, the consequences of postponing projects is also analyzed.

Case in point: Castle Rock Water will soon require that new residential homes not have grass in the front yard. This means less water demand but also less revenue from these future customers. How will this impact the reduced need for long-term water purchases, paired with aging infrastructure needs and the timeline for new water projects?

Several large capital improvement projects are in the works. Castle Rock Water has a strong rehabilitation and replacement program for wells, additional new water supply sources are being acquired, and imported water infrastructure is being expanded. With these stout infrastructure plans, the rates-and-fees study and subsequent modeling have determined that for 2023, a rate increase of almost 4% (about $4.08 per month for an average residential account) is needed. This is a steeper increase than has been seen in recent years, but it is lower than the inflation rate and lower than many other recent utility rate increases.

System development fees, paid by developers, are proposed to increase by another 13% in 2023 after a 40% increase last year. (Existing customer rates decreased in 2022.) Additional details for residential and nonresidential rates and fees can be found at CRgov.com/WaterRates

Castle Rock Water hopes to make paying your water bill easier with a new billing system, set to launch in January. The system will provide more ways to pay and additional methods to communicate with customers.

Resolve to connect with

The Town of Castle Rock is an active and thriving municipality. We are committed to making our community a great place to live, work and visit. Much of our success depends on the participation of our residents. The more we interact with — and receive input from our residents — the better we can identify with and serve our community. We urge residents to attend meetings, volunteer for various advisory boards and, of course, attend and enjoy all the special events regularly offered in Castle Rock. Here are a few resources and opportunities to connect and stay engaged with your Town:

GOVERNMENT

Town Council

The Town's governing body consists of six Councilmembers and the Mayor. Meetings are held at 6 p.m. on the first and third Tuesdays of each month in Town Hall Council Chambers. The public is encouraged to attend in person or virtually. Visit CRgov.com/CouncilMeeting for a link to the meetings. Find out what Council will be discussing or deciding on, or view a recording of a past meeting, at CRgov.com/Agendas

Boards and Commissions

Board and commission volunteers have an active role in Town government. They study information within the board’s area of expertise – such as local development, water, public safety, transportation or parks and recreation issues – and provide recommendations to Town Council and staff. The annual recruitment period begins in April. Those opportunities and vacancies throughout the year are posted at CRgov.com/Boards.

DEVELOPMENT SERVICES

Here are a few resources to help you stay informed on what is being developed in Town:

• The Development Activity Map at CRgov.com/DevelopmentActivityMap is designed to show the community where development is happening.

• The monthly Development Highlights e-newsletter summarizes high-level details about projects within Town. Sign up for the monthly newsletter at CRgov.com/NotifyMe. Then, select the envelope icon next to the Development Highlights newsletter.

• Attend a land-use public hearing to learn more about development. Public notices for neighborhood meetings can be found at CRgov.com/Notices

More ways to connect

Get to know all of the Town services The free, eight-week program provides an overview of their Town government. Applications for the class of 2023 open

Receive the latest Town news in your announcements at CRgov.com/SignUp channels: Facebook, Instagram, Twitter,

Want to work with us online? Find out with us from wherever you are at CRgov.com/ to the Town? Dial 720-896-TOWN (8696) frequently asked questions or live assistance

with the Town in 2023

PUBLIC SAFETY

Castle Rock Police Department

The Police Department offers community outreach programs like Coffee with a Cop and the RUOK? senior check-in program. Additionally, CRPD provides residents with a behind-the-scenes look at law enforcement during the Citizens Police Academy. Find the details at CRgov.com/Academy. The Youth Police Academy is a similar program for children ages 13 to 17. Find details at CRgov.com/YouthAcademy

Give back

Make an impact where you live by volunteering in Castle Rock. Find opportunities at CRgov.com/Volunteer

and departments at Your Town Academy. provides Town residents and business owners government. Find out more at CRgov.com/YTA open in June.

your inbox. Sign up for news and SignUp. Also, follow the Town’s social media Twitter, Nextdoor, LinkedIn and YouTube. out about the opportunities to connect CRgov.com/OnlineServices. Need to talk (8696) to reach a menu for help with assistance during business hours.

Castle Rock Fire and Rescue

In addition to answering the call for help 24/7 year-round, the Fire Department provides public education services such as car seat safety inspections, virtual car seat education, home fire escape plan outlines, smoke alarm safety tips and CPR classes. Learn more about offerings at CRgov.com/FireEd

SERVICES

Parks and Recreation

The Parks and Recreation Department’s registration platform is a one-stop shop to register for programs, pay membership dues and more at CRgov.com/Registration. Or, download the RockREC app to register for programs and sign up to receive alerts about programs and facilities.

Events

Each year, hundreds of great events are hosted within Castle Rock. Check out the Town calendar at CRgov.com/Events to make sure you don’t miss out.

Public Works

Before you head out the door, check the map at CRgov.com/Roadwork to see where construction is taking place throughout Town. And, when winter weather strikes, visit the interactive Plow Tracker to see where plows have been at CRgov.com/PlowTracker

Castle Rock Water

See firsthand how high-quality, great-tasting drinking water is produced in Castle Rock. Sign up for free tours of the state-of-the-art Plum Creek Water Purification Facility at CRgov.com/WaterTours

WINTER WORK

For some people, the winter months are a season to cozy up indoors. Days are shorter, many animals are hibernating and most activities move inside. That’s definitely not the case for the Town's Parks and Recreation Department. While outdoor construction may be limited, the team is hard at work prepping the next wave of improvements. Here’s a sneak peek at what’s to come in 2023.

Park and recreation improvements continue during the off-season

Children symbolically break cinder blocks to kick off renovations at Mitchell Gulch Park.

Metzler

Family Open Space improvements will include a parking lot. Metzler Family Open Space improvements will include a parking lot.

2023 Parks and Recreation projects

Butterfield Crossing Park

Ensuring play is accessible and fun for everyone is a goal for renovations at Butterfield Crossing Park. In addition to a fitness area, walking paths, new basketball and pickleball courts, and a full-season ADA-accessible restroom, a fully inclusive playground is in the works. To help fund the playground improvements, the Castle Rock Parks and Trails Foundation has raised nearly $1 million of its $1.3 million goal. Construction is slated for completion in spring/summer 2023.

Mitchell Gulch Park

After more than 25 years, this park nestled in Founders Village will undergo renovations to improve accessibility and address life-cycle replacements. Improvements include six new tennis courts, paved parking, new playground structures, a bicycle pump track, an allseason restroom and fitness elements. Work is scheduled for completion in summer 2023.

Metzler Family Open Space parking lot

Improvements are on the way to the Town’s newest open space. Construction of 4 miles of nativesurface, single-track trails is complete at Metzler Family Open Space. Now, a new trailhead parking lot off of East Allen Street will help trail users explore the property by spring 2023.

Colorado Front Range Trail

Soon, trail users will be connected to Colorado Springs and Cherry Creek via Castle Rock’s contributions to the Colorado Front Range Trail. Completing the final three segments in Castle Rock will extend East Plum Creek Trail south to Lowell Ranch and McMurdo Gulch Trail south to Hangman’s Gulch Trail and north to Cherry Creek Regional Trail. Construction started in October in the Terrain neighborhood. Completion is expected in fall 2023 thanks to partnerships with local developers and a $2 million grant from the Great Outdoors Colorado Connect Initiative.

Potential sports development center

As the community grows, so should the Town’s recreation facilities. Town Council is pursuing a potential indoor sports development center as part of a proposed project at the former Acme Brick facility on Prairie Hawk Drive. Architecture firm Barker Rinker Seacat is developing a schematic design, and the potential center could be a 132,000-square-foot facility with at least five hard courts for basketball, pickleball and volleyball; a large weight and fitness space; an indoor track; and a pool.

Celebrate 2023 with Parks and Recreation Commit to you in the new year

Ready to kick off the new year with a new outlook on health? Join the Town’s Commit to You program. Nutritional counseling and personal training will help you create impactful and sustainable health goals without weigh-ins, body measurements or goal weights. Participants will get six one-hour weekly personal training sessions and four nutrition sessions. The program runs from Monday, Jan. 16, through Tuesday, Feb. 28.

Rocking fitness on demand

Rock your fitness goals in 2023 with RockREC on demand. Virtual workouts are coming to the app in early January. Get access to workouts, nutritional tips and zen moments from the comfort of your home. Our fitness instructors are with you wherever you are. More details are coming soon at CRgov.com/Fitness.

A broomball game at the Mitchell Gulch Park renovation kickoff event in October.

Forty different group fitness classes are offered at the Recreation Center.

OUTSIDE

THE BOX

CRPD creates nontraditional positions to meet residents’ needs

The Castle Rock Police Department’s sworn members are spread over a dozen specialized teams. While the largest unit is Patrol, CRPD is growing its unique policing positions to include a special addition to the Community Partnership Unit, a Community Response Team and a Downtown Liaison Officer.

“In the last several years, we’ve really seen the Town evolve,” said Police Chief Jack Cauley. “Many of these nontraditional positions were created to make sure we are meeting the needs of our residents.”

Officer Paul Longuevan joined the Community Partnership Unit in August.

CASTLE ROCK POLICE DEPARTMENT

44,972

144

Community Partnership addition

CRPD added a sixth member to its Community Partnership Unit in August. This team is largely tasked with working alongside residents to solve crimes and find solutions for local problems. The new position was created specifically to support individuals who are experiencing homelessness. Officer Paul Longuevan currently serves in this role after joining CRPD from an out-of-state agency, where he gained vast experience working with people who are unhoused.

After receiving a referral regarding an individual who is experiencing homelessness, or spontaneously meeting someone while patrolling the Town, Officer Longuevan works alongside the Douglas County Homeless Engagement, Assistance and Resource Teams (HEART). Together, he and a Douglas County navigator assess what resources are available and can be provided to the individual so they may get back on their feet.

More information on HEART can be found by visiting douglas.co.us/homeless-initiative/heart.

Community Response Team

In May 2017, CRPD introduced a Community Response Team, as part of the Douglas County Mental Health Initiative, to address calls for service involving mental health. This program pairs an officer with a mental health clinician (and, sometimes, a case manager) to respond to calls where people are experiencing a mental health crisis.

Officer Tom O’Donnell and Clinician Kalie Bryant can be requested by either dispatchers or other officers. When they arrive, Bryant conducts a mental health evaluation to determine what level of care is required. Together, this team can arrange for direct placement in a facility or connect a person to outpatient services.

“We try to keep a low profile to help reduce the stigma that comes with mental health calls, so we drive an unmarked vehicle for an added level of comfort,” said Officer O’Donnell.

Ultimately, this team works to keep people out of the hospital or jail by connecting them with the appropriate resources to receive assistance.

Downtown Liaison Officer

Three years ago, CRPD created the Downtown Liaison Officer – a position where a sworn member is dedicated solely to tending to Downtown Castle Rock. While some of the job pertains to parking enforcement and education, much of the role is about relationships.

“Officer Glenn Stark is well known to the Downtown business owners, employees and patrons,” said Chief Cauley. “He is constantly interacting with people, whether it’s listening to their concerns and coming up with areas for improvement, or offering restaurant recommendations in the area. It really is a great extension of our One-By-One Policing philosophy.”

With the addition of the Encore parking garage, Officer Stark has worked to embrace the challenges that come with it, including the prevention of trespassing and loitering. Additionally, he assists with security for Castle Rock Municipal Court on Wednesdays.

CRPD's calls for service through October 2022

6The number of Community Response Teams in Douglas County

The number of sworn and professional staff and volunteers at CRPD

Officer Tom O'Donnell, left, and Clinician Kalie Bryant are part of CRPD's Community Response Team. The team works to keep people out of the hospital or jail by connecting them with the appropriate resources to receive assistance.

CRFD is here to help 24/7 year-round. Do not hesitate to call 911 in the event of an emergency.

Castle Rock Fire and Rescue's 10

ways to keep homes safe and warm this winter

There are more home fires in winter than in any other season, according to the National Fire Protection Association. Half of all home heating fires happen in December, January and February.

“We encourage our residents to take steps to help keep themselves and their homes safe,” said Fire Chief Norris Croom. “We’re entering the coldest months of the year, which means we have also entered the time when residents are most at risk for home fires and carbon monoxide poisoning.”

Here are CRFD’s top recommendations to keep warm and safe this winter:

1Schedule a service appointment. Furnaces, vents and both gas and wood-burning fireplaces need to be cleaned and inspected by a qualified professional once per year.

2All smoke alarms should pass the test. They should be tested once per month and replaced at least every 10 years. Smoke alarms need to be on every level of the home, inside each sleeping room and outside each sleeping area. For the best protection, the smoke alarms should also be interconnected so that when one sounds, they all sound.

Check carbon monoxide alarms. An alarm should be located outside of each sleeping area and on every level of the home. When snow piles up outside, make sure exhaust vents for the dryer, furnace, stove and fireplace are clear of snow buildup to prevent carbon monoxide poisoning.

Leave heating installations to the professionals. Have an expert install heating equipment and water heaters according to Town Code and the manufacturer’s instructions. Please know, per Town Code, residents cannot install a wood-burning fireplace in a new or existing structure. And, be sure to schedule an inspection through the Town for the installation of water heaters and HVAC units.

Plug portable heaters directly into an outlet, not an extension cord! Give portable heaters at least 3 feet of space from anything that can burn, like bedding or wallpaper.

CASTLE ROCK FIRE & RESCUE

Generators should only be used outdoors. Keep them away from windows and doors. Do not run a generator inside a garage, even if the door is open.

Dispose of ashes safely. Use a covered metal container to dispose of cooled ashes from fireplaces or fire pits. The ash container should be kept at least 10 feet from the home and any nearby buildings.

Plan your home fire escape. Have two ways out of the home in case of an emergency. Clear your driveway and front walk of ice and snow to help ensure a safe escape, and make sure your house number can be seen from the street to help facilitate a rapid response from CRFD.

For wood-burning fireplaces, ensure the screen is sturdy. Fireplaces should have a metal or heat-tempered glass screen that is in good condition and secure, to stop sparks from flying into the room.

Turn all portable heating devices off when leaving the room or going to bed. When buying a heater, seek out one that has an automatic shut-off feature.

Three firefighter/EMTs and one training officer will be hired for Castle Rock Fire and Rescue. Castle Rock Police Department, meanwhile, will add a sergeant, two officers and a civilian position to assist in filing felony cases.

Additional planned public safety enhancements include stipends to compensate fire personnel who have specialty certifications; implementation of a Master Patrol Officer program, along with differential pay for those working the graveyard shift, for CRPD; and equipment upgrades for both departments.

2023 is the year the Town expects to begin construction on its top transportation priority: a new interchange at Interstate 25 and Crystal Valley Parkway. Funding is still being finalized so that a contract can be awarded for the project. Stay up to date on progress at CRgov.com/CVI

The Town also plans to complete annual pavement maintenance in eastern Castle Rock, along with four other major projects:

• Widen Plum Creek Parkway from Eaton Street to Ridge Road

• Widen Ridge Road from Plum Creek Parkway to the “Four Corners” intersection of Ridge Road, Fifth Street, Founders Parkway and Colorado Highway 86 • Improve the “Four Corners” intersection • Improve the intersection of Crystal Valley Parkway and Plum Creek Boulevard

The Town's two main water goals are securing 75% or more renewable water by 2050 and reducing per-capita water use to 100 gallons per day – both while maintaining affordable rates and fees. In 2023, the Town has planned several initiatives to make progress on those goals, including advancing the Water Infrastructure and Supply Efficiency (WISE) imported water project and continuing to implement advanced metering infrastructure.

Additionally, the Castle Rock Water team will take on water and sewer line rehabilitation projects and will continue to upgrade its security, controls and network to help ensure continued safe and reliable water and wastewater services.

Several Parks and Recreation projects are planned for 2023. Renovations will be completed at Butterfield Crossing Park, including the new Possibilities Playground. Updates at Mitchell Gulch Park will also be completed, and Plum Creek North Park will be constructed.

The Colorado Front Range Trail will be completed within Castle Rock, and numerous other smaller projects are also planned.

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in the year ahead:

Development moves interchange project forward

Construction on a priority road project – a new interchange at Interstate 25 and Crystal Valley Parkway – may begin as early as 2023 due in part to a development project that’s been planned for nearly 40 years.

In August, Town Council approved the rezoning of Dawson Trails – a mixed-use development on a roughly 2,000-acre site west of I-25 and primarily south of Territorial Road.

The area was annexed into Town in 1984 and zoned for a mix of residential, commercial, office, restaurant and industrial uses. The Town has been planning to serve this area with municipal services, including water, since that time.

The new development plan for the area reduces the number of residential units the original zoning allows by 26%, to 5,850 units. The plan also helps with the funding needed for the Crystal Valley interchange.

The Dawson Trails developers agreed to contribute $50 million toward the interchange project under the development agreement. The Town and Douglas County – and possible grants and other sources – would fund the rest of the project, which is currently estimated at $120 million.

The new plan for Dawson Trails also includes a 200% increase in open space – up to 748 acres – from the original zoning.

CRYSTAL VALLEY INTERCHANGE

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CrystalValley Parkway

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contribute $4 million toward a future fire station to serve the area, along with addressing other Town needs.

Council also approved an incentive to the development for infrastructure and land to bring a Costco to the site. The infrastructure assistance is for up to $10 million and is planned to come from the Town’s Economic Development Fund and future Costco sales tax revenue. With the tax revenue projected to be generated by Costco, the Town expects to hire 18 fire and police staff in 2025-2027.

It’s anticipated construction on the interchange could begin in 2023 and may be completed in 2025. Costco is expected to open at roughly the same time. The Dawson Trails developer will decide, based on market conditions, when residential units are built and which stores and other amenities will be located within the development.

Learn more about the development project at CRgov.com/DawsonTrails.

ECONOMIC DEVELOPMENT

Crystal Valley interchange update

Once constructed, the Crystal Valley interchange will improve safety and mobility in the region and provide a key regional transportation link from Interstate 25 to southern Castle Rock and Douglas County.

The projected $120 million total project cost includes design; right of way acquisition; construction of a bridge over I-25; northbound and southbound onand off-ramps; a bridge over the BNSF railroad tracks; relocation of a segment of East Frontage Road, and a connection to the relocated west frontage road from Tomah Road to the new interchange. The frontage road relocation will be constructed concurrently with the interchange construction.

Crystal Valley Parkway will be constructed with two lanes in each direction between East Frontage Road and Dawson Trails Boulevard. Refinement to the proposed design is underway and focused on optimizing traffic operations and maximizing construction efficiency. Possible considerations include roundabouts and phasing of the construction to minimize traffic disruptions. Another element that will be considered is multimodal additions such as sidewalks and bike lanes.

Find more information about the Crystal Valley interchange at CRgov.com/CVI

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Existing Plum Creek Bridge

Douglas Lane

SHOP LOCAL 26 OUTLOOK MAGAZINE / WINTER 2022

reasons to keep spending close to home for the holidays 10

Tis’ the season to buy gifts for everyone on your list. When you search for the perfect gift, shop locally and give back to your community as you check off your list. Here are 10 reasons to resolve to spend close to home for the holidays, and in the new year:

One-of-a-kind shops and restaurants are part of the character of the community, and they play an important role in making our Town a great place to live.

The success of local businesses attracts and encourages entrepreneurs to start local businesses, which leads to more jobs and more revenue circulating within the community.

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Shopping local generates sales tax dollars to help pay for Town services such as police, fire, road maintenance, snow removal and more.

The majority of local workers live in the community, so by shopping locally, you’re helping provide jobs for friends and neighbors.

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Local businesses often use other local businesses for marketing, accounting, printing and other services, further impacting the local economy.

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Shopping locally can save time and money that would be spent on fuel to travel outside the community.

Local businesses are more likely to give to nonprofits and charities within the community, thereby supporting needed services and programs.

Shopping locally is the best way to show pride in your Town and help protect the businesses that make Castle Rock unique.

TOWN FINANCES

Voters’ approvals boost Town efforts

Castle Rock voters trusted in the Town last fall and approved the Town’s first new tax since 1994, along with a 10-year “TABOR timeout.”

These approvals from the community have already helped the Town make strides in several areas.

Lodging tax

A new 6% lodging tax on overnight stays in Town is being used – per voters’ approval – solely for parks and recreation purposes. This included hiring in 2022 an additional parks maintenance worker who helps keep our community jewel parks shining bright.

Additional items afforded by the tax – which is expected to generate nearly $650,000 in revenue for 2022 – include vegetation replacement and parks updates. An additional position to support parks and recreation needs is expected to be added in 2023 using this revenue.

TABOR timeout

More financially significant is the 10-year “timeout” of the revenue restrictions the State’s Taxpayer Bill of Rights law places on the Town.

TABOR limits the amount of revenue government entities within Colorado can collect and spend annually, unless voters exempt their government from the restriction. The Town of Castle Rock is the only Douglas County governmental entity to which the restriction still applies. Voters in 2021 allowed the Town to retain and spend all revenues it collects through 2030 for police, fire/EMS and roads purposes.

Due to favorable economic conditions, the Town exceeded its TABOR revenue cap for 2021 by $14.6 million. Various factors contributed to the “surplus,” including strong sales tax and housing growth and open space shareback funds from Douglas County for park improvements.

Town Council approved retaining and spending these funds as follows, per voters’ approval:

• Funding for construction of Fire Station 156 at Castle Oaks Drive and Rocky View Road: $6 million

• Funding for space buildout at Police Headquarters: $2 million

• Funding for wildfire mitigation initiatives: $1 million

• Funding for road/transportation purposes: $5.6 million

Learn more at CRgov.com/TABOR

Firefighters train at the Town's Public Training Facility to perfect their skills. A portion of the TABOR funds voters approved retaining in 2021 will benefit Castle Rock Fire and Rescue Department.