FROM THE MAYOR'S DESK WINDSOR TOWN BOARD
Mayor Julie Cline jcline@windsorgov.com
Dear Windsor Community,
As the warm days of summer give way to the crisp air of fall, it's a great time to reflect on the progress we've made together and look ahead to what's on the horizon for our wonderful community.
I'm thrilled to share that this summer marked the completion of one of our most significant projects—the new 43,330 square-foot Windsor Police Department. This state-of-the-art facility, which was funded entirely with existing town resources, represents a $30 million investment in our community's safety and security without taking on any new debt. This achievement stands as a testament to our commitment to fiscal responsibility and careful financial planning.
As we move into the fall season, the Town Board and I are focused on the budget process for 2025. Crafting a budget is one of the most important responsibilities we have, as it lays the foundation for how we will continue to meet the needs of our growing community while being good stewards of your taxpayer dollars. Our approach remains rooted in careful planning and sustainable growth, ensuring that we invest in the right areas—from infrastructure to essential services—without compromising our financial stability.
Looking ahead, I'm filled with optimism about the future of Windsor. With the dedication of our staff, the guidance of our Town Board and the active participation of our residents, I am confident that we will continue to build a community of which we should all be proud. I encourage each of you to stay engaged with our budget process, provide your feedback and join us in shaping the future of Windsor.
Thank you for your continued support and for making Windsor the wonderful place that it is. I look forward to the year ahead and all that we will achieve together.
Warm regards,
Ron Steinbach
District 1
Mayor Pro-Tem rsteinbach@windsorgov.com
Brian Jones
District 2
bjones@windsorgov.com
Julie Cline Mayor of Windsor
Lainie Peltz
District 3
lpeltz@windsorgov.com
Ken Symsack
District 4
ksymsack@windsorgov.com
Rick Klimek
District 5
rklimek@windsorgov.com
Jason Hallett
District 6
jhallett@windsorgov.com
Town Board Meetings
Held the second and fourth Monday of each month at 7 p.m. For more information about meetings, visit windsorgov.com/TownBoard
TOWN MANAGER
Shane Hale
shale@windsorgov.com 970-674-2419
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WINDSOR MATTERS
Windsor Matters is an effort to improve town communications and increase resident engagement. The newsletter is included in monthly utility bills, with a full print edition mailed twice a year.
Cover Photo: The front exterior of the new Windsor Police Department facility at 960 N. 15th St.
Above: Trees along Grand Ave. turning red in the fall.
Windsor Matters is published by the Town of Windsor © 2024. Reproduction of any portion of this publication, including photography and artwork, is strictly prohibited without the express consent of the Town of Windsor. Archived editions of the newsletter can be viewed at windsorgov.com/Newsletter.
Windsor Town Hall
301 Walnut St. | 970-674-2400 windsorgov.com
2025 BUDGET
Town of Windsor's Annual Budget Process Enters
Final Stages
Maintaining fiscal responsibility and stability is a top priority for the Town of Windsor. Central to achieving this is the annual budget, which stands as the town's most significant policy document each year.
Staff begin preparing the budget nearly a full year before it takes effect on Jan. 1. This early start allows for a thorough, data-driven approach to budgeting, ensuring that the town can manage taxpayer resources effectively and remain prepared for unexpected challenges or financial shortfalls.
Maintaining Fiscal Responsibility
The ability to pay for ongoing municipal operations, services and programs.
The ability to maintain a balanced annual budget.
The ability to sustainably pay for future municipal operations and projects.
The ability to provide the community with the needed and desired municipal services.
The ability to react and respond to changes in the economy or to new challenges, whether expected or not, without measurable financial stress.
The Annual Budget Process
Evaluation & Preparation
January - May
Staff begin development of expenditure estimates for their service areas, in accordance with the town’s Strategic Plan and revenue projections. Additionally, performance data are monitored throughout the year and evaluated to help guide the budget process.
Submission & Review
June - August
Once preparation is complete, staff submit their final requests to the Town Manager and Finance team for further review, discussion and refinement, if needed. Revenue projections for the upcoming year are also finalized.
Presentation & Input
September - October
Staff meet with the Mayor and Town Board over several work sessions to discuss the final recommended budget. Work sessions covering the Capital Improvement Plan (CIP), the town’s operating and maintenance budget, staffing requests, and utility rates and fees all take place during this window, with a final session dedicated to making sure all of the Town Board’s questions have been answered.
Final Approval
November - December
The Town Board holds a public meeting to allow for input from residents and for any additional comments or questions from the board or staff before adopting the final budget at their next meeting. The final document is then published in December for implementation beginning in January.
PLAN 2024-2029 STRATEGIC
To clearly capture the Town Board's most important priorities and help direct the development of the budget and resource allocation, the town develops a tool called the Strategic Plan. This guiding document helps pave the way for future decisions by the town to ensure they align with the community's overall goals.
Windsor's five-year Strategic Plan is updated every other year in a process that involves the Town Board, town staff and our community. Staff then use the finalized plan as a roadmap for planning through the next five years by implementing action steps that work toward accomplishing each of the three areas of focus.
Some SUCCESSES Since 2022
Evaluated and revised emergency plans based on lessons learned from the COVID-19 pandemic and 2008 tornado
Update dthe town's Comprehensive Plan
Implemented a pedestrian safety improvements program
Supported efforts to make the Windsor downtown area a cultural center for public art, events and activities
Current FOCUS AREAS
Through meaningful engagement with our community, key Focus Areas are determined in which we can improve our efforts, as well as those areas which we can continue to excel. The key Focus Areas reflect what is most important for the town in the coming years. They are broad areas that are further defined through Goals and specific Action Steps.
Let us know your thoughts on priorities for the next five years!
To provide your input on this year's Strategic Plan updates, visit windsorprojectconnect.com.
Strategic Growth
Windsor is committed to responsible and purposeful growth of our community through a connected transportation system, land use policies, open space preservation, services and amenities that reflect the needs of our town, and sustainable resources.
Vital Infrastructure
Windsor places significant value on building and maintaining a safe multimodal public transportation network, consistent communication systems, efficient wastewater and stormwater management, reliable water delivery and storage systems, and accessible and equitable public facilities that provide a high quality of life for our community.
Vibrant & Healthy Economy
Windsor is business friendly. We maintain a viable, stable, diverse and strategic economic base which supports the needs and enhances the lifestyles of those living and working in our community.
Guiding PRINCIPLES
COMMUNITY SAFETY
Windsor ensures that safety of our community is at the forefront of every decision we make. We accomplish this through design, construction of infrastructure, prevention, and preparedness. We sustain an active emergency management system focused on prevention, preparedness and recovery, with key partnerships in place to effectively respond in a crisis. We safeguard our infrastructure through best management practices and long-term planning to deliver safe and reliable town-provided utilities and services.
FISCAL RESPONSIBILITY
Windsor is committed to sound fiscal management and transparency in all decision making. We plan for future generations through adequate allocation of resources that will allow for operations and maintenance of our facilities and land. We consistently evaluate our resources to maintain a healthy balance of programs and services.
QUALITY OF LIFE
Windsor residents have a healthy, active lifestyle that provides opportunities for residents and visitors of all ages and abilities to experience a full array of recreational services and natural resources. We take pride in our well-connected and involved community that truly cares about each other demonstrated by the exceptional customer service of our workforce and the selfrespect reflected through the attractiveness of our town.
SMALL TOWN FEEL
Windsor thrives on its unique locale and the personal relationships that support a friendly and welcoming community. We value collaboration and respect as the foundation of all our interactions. Community engagement is focused on identifying opportunities for open and transparent conversations.
Windsor Police Welcome
New Chief of Police and New Facility
The Town of Windsor marked a significant month in its history this August, with two key events setting the tone for the Windsor Police Department and the future of public safety in the community.
On Aug. 7, Windsor Police opened the doors to its new state-of-theart facility at 960 N. 15th St., a much-needed expansion for the department. Then, just a few weeks later on Aug. 26, Stephen M. Garrison officially assumed his role as the new Chief of Police. These two milestones, each very significant in their own right, represent a new era of growth, modernization and commitment to community safety for the organization.
A New Leader Takes the Helm
Garrison, previously a Major with the Orange County Sheriff’s Office in Florida, joins the Windsor Police Department with an impressive 36year career in law enforcement. While with his previous agency, Garrison oversaw critical divisions such as Special Operations, Narcotics, and Criminal Investigations.
"It is an honor to be the 7th Chief of Police serving the town of Windsor," said Chief Garrison. "The residents have welcomed me with open arms,
and I am committed to building trusted relationships with everyone, particularly the outstanding officers and professional staff of the police department. I'm truly grateful to be surrounded by an exceptional team that is committed to protecting our community."
"We are so fortunate to have Chief Garrison leading the department, as he brings a tremendous amount of experience, expertise and leadership to our great and growing community," Windsor Town Manager Shane Hale said. “Our PD has always had excellent leadership and a hard charging mission of keeping the community safe, and Chief Garrison will have the charge of keeping this high tempo and excellent service delivery in place while ensuring that the department can rise to the new challenges that come with growth.”
Garrison was chosen after a rigorous national search that included input from stakeholders, assessments and a public meet-and-greet with five finalists for the position in early July.
A New Home for Windsor Police
Just before welcoming its new Chief, the Windsor Police Department celebrated another major achievement—the opening
of its brand new, 43,330 squarefoot headquarters. The department opened the doors to the new building almost exactly one year after construction began, finishing well ahead of schedule.
The facility replaces the department’s previous building on 11th St., which opened in 2010 and was originally designed to accommodate a much smaller staff.
"The new facility is a testament to the hard work and collaboration of everyone involved," said Administrative Commander and former Interim Chief of Police Aaron Lopez. "We are grateful to our partners who helped make this project happen, from the architects and contractors to town staff and the department itself. The cooperation we had from everyone was truly remarkable."
The facility boasts advanced evidence processing facilities, modern training spaces, and a multipurpose defensive tactics training area, among other advancements—tools that will be invaluable as Windsor continues to expand and evolve.
Sound Fiscal Stewardship
One of the most significant successes with the project is how it was funded. The Town of Windsor, at the direction of the Windsor Town Board, completed the $30 million project without incurring any new debt or financing, thanks to careful planning through the entire process.
"The Town Board and staff were very focused on fiscal responsibility throughout this project," explained Hale. "Because the Town Board and staff have always managed taxpayer money responsibly, we were able to fund the entire construction with cash reserves from the General Fund and Capital Improvement Fund. It’s a significant achievement that few communities can match and one that our residents should be very proud of. Without the Town Board’s vision and commitment to public safety, a project like this would not have been possible."
This prudent financial management underscores the Town Board’s commitment to not only growing sustainably, but doing so in a way that benefits its residents while remaining fiscally responsible.
The new facility was designed with future expansion plans in mind, meaning the building can serve the department and the community for many years to come.
Looking Toward the Future
As Windsor welcomes Chief Garrison and celebrates the opening of its new police headquarters, there is a strong sense of optimism for what lies ahead.
"I am excited about the future," said Chief Garrison. "We have a stateof-the-art facility that enables us to meet the growing needs of Windsor. Our dedicated team of professionals will be able to work efficiently, have space for professional development, and focus on providing the best services to our community."
The Windsor Police Department held a ribbon-cutting ceremony
for the new facility on Friday, Sept. 13, offering residents a chance to tour the new building and meet the officers who serve them. The event symbolized more than just a new building, though—it was also a celebration of progress, partnership and a collective commitment to the continued safety of Windsor.
Below: Exterior of the new Windsor Police Department. Right: Windsor Chief of Police Stephen M. Garrison.
The main lobby of the new Windsor Police Department, located at 960 N. 15th St.
Whether it's a fire, flood or other emergency—or you just want to know what's happening around town—get the alerts that matter most to you. The Town of Windsor partners with NOCOAlert to deliver critical emergency notifications, important town updates, traffic alerts, event information and more—right to your phone.
Sign up now and be prepared for whatever comes your way.
Emergency Notifications
Keep yourself and your family safe in the event of an emergency by signing up for emergency notifications. There are two ways to sign up:
Register Online at NOCOAlert.org
Add up to five different addresses you'd like to receive alerts for, as well as other forms of communication such as phone call or email.
Using the Everbridge App
Download the Everbridge app from the App Store or Google Play to register using your mobile device. Pick any keyword
Are you a Windsor resident in Weld County? NOCOAlert works for anyone living within the Windsor Severance Fire District, so you're still covered. Windsor residents in Weld County are encouraged to register for additional emergency alerts using the CodeRed alert system at weld911alert.com
Text Message Updates
Text any of the keywords listed to the number below to receive text updates on community news, road conditions, events and more.
Windsor residents are invited to participate in the 2024 Fall Clean-Up Days event, which is free for utility customers to attend. An original voucher is required to participate and can be found on the back of this magazine.
If the voucher is misplaced, residents can bring valid identification such as a driver’s license or copy of their utility bill, provided it has a Windsor address, to the event. Additionally, replacement vouchers can be picked up at Town Hall, 301 Walnut St., the Community Recreation Center, 250 11th St. or at the Public Services Campus.
At the event, residents will be able to drive up and drop off their materials at corresponding stations. Residents will be responsible for unloading their own items.
For more information about Town of Windsor Utilities, visit windsorgov.com/Utilities.
October 11 & 12 9 a.m. - 3 p.m.
ITEMS PERMITTED
• General household trash
• Organic materials such as yard and garden waste, branches, tree limbs up to four inches in diameter and grass clippings
• Scrap metal
• Small furniture (no mattresses or large couches)
• Indoor appliances such as stoves, ovens, washers, dryers, dishwashers, microwaves
• Grills
• Bicycles
• Vehicle tires without rims (no tractor or commercial truck tires)
ITEMS NOT PERMITTED
• General household mixed recycling (paper, cardboard etc.)
• Hazardous waste
• Propane tanks and gas cylinders
• Refrigerators or other appliances containing freon
• Construction debris (dirt, cement, pavers)
• Tractor or commercial tires
• Wooden pallets
• Vehicles
• Animal carcasses
• Electronics
• Glass
• Large furniture, such as mattresses or large couches
As fall approaches, residents are reminded to practice
RESPONSIBLE STREET & STORMWATER PRACTICES
Proper leaf collection and disposal keeps our neighborhoods clean and welcoming, which makes them safer and more environmentally friendly. It allows Windsor Streets and Stormwater teams to maintain town streets and storm drainage infrastructure more efficiently. Residents are reminded not to blow or rake yard debris into the street as it can clog storm drains, pollute downstream water quality, cause damage to street sweepers and may result in a fine. Yard waste entering the town’s storm sewer system,
known as the Municipal Separate Storm Sewer System (MS4), can lead to a release of excess nutrients into the Cache la Poudre River and other local bodies of water. This can result in poor downstream water quality and excessive algae growth.
Windsor’s street sweeping season typically runs from April 1 through Nov. 30 and is split up into 20 street sweeping districts. Each district undergoes street sweeping operations at least four times per year and on an as-needed basis when temperatures are above freezing.
To learn more about Windsor’s Stormwater Management Program, visit windsorgov.com/Stormwater.
For additional information about street sweeping and to view the street sweeping calendar, visit windsorgov.com/StreetSweeping.
Keep trash cans, vehicles and sports equipment out of the street, and keep tree branches and brush trimmed back to allow the sweeper to clean the gutter area.
Plan ahead when fertilizing. Only apply the amount of fertilizer that is recommended and don’t apply when the ground is frozen or the grass has gone dormant.
Keep storm drains clear. Never rake or blow leaves into storm drains. It can create unhealthy local waterway conditions and cause flooding.
Dispose of leaves and lawn waste responsibly. Bring waste to a local organics recycling site.
Learn more about Windsor's street sweeping operations at windsorgov.com/StreetSweeping
In 2021, the Town of Windsor initiated the acquisition process for streetlights from Poudre Valley Rural Electric Association (PVREA) and Xcel Energy to reduce taxpayer expenses and enhance service quality, particularly in responding to outages.
The acquisition from PVREA will be finalized on Tuesday, Oct. 1, 2024. The transfer of Xcel Energy streetlights is expected to be completed within the next six months.
Following these acquisitions, the town will convert any remaining nonLED streetlights to LED technology. An external contractor will manage this conversion project, and the public will be notified when work begins.
The total cost for the streetlight ownership transition and LED conversion is projected to be $2.3 million.
The return on investment (ROI) from energy savings alone is anticipated to be realized by the seventh year, with combined savings from energy and maintenance costs—estimated at $5.3 million over 20 years—expected to start in the eighth year.
This approach aligns with successful models implemented by other communities in Colorado and across the nation.
Beginning Oct. 1, 2024, residents may report streetlight outages in the following ways: See Click Fix
and fastest option windsorgov.com/SeeClickFix
Report non-emergency issues in your neighborhood, such as cracked sidewalks or potholes, while you're on-the-go! Visit windsorgov.com/SeeClickFix to report an issue. See it. Report it.
Prefer an app instead?
Download the WindsorGov app for simplified access to Town of Windsor information and services. Report a concern with SeeClickFix, pay a bill, access news, register for programs and more, all right from your phone.
Search for the WindsorGov app
WINDSOR’S SNOW & ICE TEAM GEARS UP FOR WINTER
Advanced PlowOps Program and Skilled Operators Ensure Safe and Efficient Snow Removal for the Season
With snow season just around the corner for Windsor, it’s important to remember that the Snow & Ice Team is committed to ensuring the safety of travel in town throughout the duration of the season. Inside the cab, the driver uses controls to adjust the blade’s angle and height, which are about 12 ft. wide, ensuring efficient snow removal.
Snowplow operators are dedicated to community safety, giving ample room when creating snow berms to avoid obstructing driveways and intersections.
They navigate through traffic and obstacles with care, aiming to restore streets to the safest possible conditions. Their skill and attention to
detail are crucial in maintaining safe roads during winter weather.
Windsor utilizes a program called PlowOps, specialized to enhance snow removal operations. It allows for real-time tracking of snowplows, enabling municipalities to monitor vehicle locations and optimize routes, reducing fuel consumption and time on the road.
PlowOps also collects data on plowing activities, aiding in the improvement of future snow removal strategies. Additionally, it ensures safety and accountability by tracking snowplow movements and activities, ensuring drivers follow safety protocols and resources are used effectively.
Windsor’s snow plan for the upcoming season remains the same: ensuring safe and efficient travel. Priority is given to plowing and de-icing major arterial and collector streets, including routes for emergency responders, schools and bus routes. Snow removal operations will be flexible to adapt to varying storm conditions. Residents are encouraged to stay informed about road conditions and to give snowplows ample space to operate safely.
Learn more about Windsor’s Snow & Ice Team and the town’s snow removal process at windsorgov.com/Snow.
FREE FOR ALL AGES!
Saturday, Oct. 26 | 11:30 a.m. - 4 p.m.
Windsor History Museum
The 5th Annual Halloween Carnival is back for our spookiest celebration yet! Enjoy all of your favorite Halloween activities like trick-or-treating, fun inflatables and yummy food trucks!
Gear up for an adrenaline-fueled adventure at our Zombie Dash Fun Run! Participants of all ages will navigate through thrilling obstacles, dodging the dead and racing against time to reach the finish. Race starts at 11:30 a.m. Registration is required. bit.ly/ZombieDash2024
Trick-or-treating starts at 1 p.m. with dozens of candy stops around the Windsor History Museum lawn and family-friendly activities including face painting, thrilling photo ops and more!
Are you dressing your fur-babies in adorable costumes? Join us for a special Howl-o-ween Yappy Hour! High Hops Brewery beverages will be available for purchase from 1-4 p.m., with all proceeds benefitting Big Bones Canine Rescue.
If you are a fan of all things spooky and want a chance to give back at the Halloween Carnival, visit windsorgov.com/Volunteer for more information.
VOLUNTEER OPPORTUNITIES
The Windsor Volunteer Experience seeks to build a spirit of community service in Windsor. For more information about upcoming volunteer events and opportunities, visit windsorgov.com/Volunteer
Fall Garden Cleanup | Saturday, Oct. 5 Treasure Island Demonstration Garden
Learn about fall cleanup tasks as you help get the garden ready for another winter season.
Event runs from 9 a.m. – 12 p.m. with a picnic lunch to follow for volunteers. Please wear closed-toed shoes, sun protection and clothes you don't mind getting dirty.
Sign up at bit.ly/WindsorVolunteerEvents
Warm Essentials
Drive
Help keep our Weld County neighbors warm during cold weather and difficult times. Join the Windsor Volunteer Experience and the United Way of Weld County to gather warm essentials such as gloves, socks and hand warmers. Bring your donation to collection bins around town, then join us for a packing day!
Warm Essentials Packing Day
Saturday, Nov. 2, 9 a.m. - 12 p.m.
Windsor Public Services Campus, 922 N. 15th St.
Items Requested:
• Blankets • Gloves
• Socks (ideally wool or thick socks)
• Hand warmers • Beanies/winter hats • Scarves
Find a list of locations at bit.ly/WarmEssentialsDay2024.
10th Annual Community Art Show
FREE FOR ALL
Ages Mediums Abilities Styles Artists
Regional artists showcase their unique artwork at the 10th Annual Community Art Show, Free for ALL!
See the best of what our community artists can create in this exhibition open to all ages, mediums and styles.
SEPTEMBER 14 - NOVEMBER 17
Fridays - Sundays, Noon - 4 p.m. Free admission recreationliveshere.com/Culture
Join us for light refreshments, live music from Maxwell Hughes and awards for first, second and third place. Opening
Friday, Oct. 4 | 5:30 - 8 p.m.
Poetry Opening Reception & Awards Ceremony
Friday, Nov. 1 | 5:30 - 8 p.m.
Hear from our winners and an open mic! Light refreshments will be provided.
Immerse yourself in the enchantment of Windsor Wonderland, a magical holiday experience located in the heart of town at Boardwalk Park. Greet Santa as he arrives by Great Western Railway train at 4:30 p.m.
Then join Santa and Mayor Julie Cline as they kick off this year’s event with the annual Tree Lighting ceremony. Watch as the Windsor History Museum transforms into a wonderland of lights, holiday activities and fun!
Be sure to be in line by 6:30 p.m. to take a photo with Santa!
