Our Annual Spring Clean Up is scheduled for May 31 – Details will follow soon

Calling all Gold Hill locals…

The Gold Hill General Store & Pub is proud to be a part of this great community and want to give a little back. During the month of March, locals will have a chance to get an additional credit added to their local’s tab.  You will receive an extra 10% for any credit added up to $399 and 20% on any credit added of $400 or more.  This will effectively give you a 20% discount on all purchases with that credit.  For example, if you apply $400 to your local’s tab, we will give you an additional 20%, which in this case, would be $80 bringing your total credit to $480.  Think of all the fun stuff that free $80 will get you.  Milk, eggs, beer, hammer, cookies, pizza, sandwiches, and the list goes on.    

Feeling generous?  Add some credit to a friend’s account.  Whether you have someone in mind or not, there are people in the community where a little would go a long way.  We have a confidential list of individuals and families in our community who you can anonymously donate to and you will have the choice of having the additional credit added to your account or theirs.

Gift cards are also available!

Offer ends March 31st and is limited to locals only.  This means you live on the dirt roads near Gold Hill.

Whitey, Mike and the Gold Hill Team

303-443-7724

Dwight DeBroux

ddebroux@nullgoldhillstore.com

—

Boulder County Area Agency on Aging coming in person to meet with us

at The Gold Hill School 

Tuesday MARCH 25 at 4 pm  – just show up, no RSVP needed

They will present a power point on Aging Services in the Mountains.  This is the time to meet them, establish a relationship, and ASK YOUR QUESTIONS!!! 

Who is coming from AAA?

Corrin Godar is Supervisor of Caregiving (and Monet and Amy’s supervisor)

Monet Scott is our new BoCo AAA Mountain Representative 

Lyndsey Neville is in charge of Policy

Amy Schauffler (sp?) is the Mountain Rep for Lyons/Allenspark area who sometimes sees clients here. 

a video presentation will be available later on their website for those unable to attend. 

See you then!!

Best,

pam   pamsher123@nullgmail.com

    ...RED FLAG WARNING IN EFFECT FROM TUESDAY MORNING 10 AM THROUGH TUESDAY EVENING 4 PM FOR WIND AND LOW RELATIVE HUMIDITY FOR THE DENVER METRO, PORTIONS OF THE NORTHEAST PLAINS OF COLORADO, AND THE SOUTHERN FOOTHILLS...FIRE WEATHER ZONES 216...239, 240, 241, 243, 244, 245 and 249. RED FLAG WARNING IN EFFECT FROM TUESDAY MORNING 10 AM THROUGH TUESDAY EVENING 7 PM FOR WIND AND LOW RELATIVE HUMIDITY FOR THE EAST-CENTRAL PLAINS OF COLORADO...FIRE WEATHER ZONES 246 AND 247...

COZ239>241-243>245-249-180900-
/O.EXP.KBOU.FW.W.0005.000000T0000Z-250318T0100Z/
/O.NEW.KBOU.FW.W.0006.250318T1600Z-250318T2200Z/
Boulder And Jefferson Counties Below 6000 Feet/West Broomfield
County-
North Douglas County Below 6000 Feet/Denver/West Adams and
Arapahoe Counties/East Broomfield County-
Elbert/Central and East Douglas Counties Above 6000 Feet-
Central and South Weld County-Morgan County-
Central and East Adams and Arapahoe Counties-Washington County-
700 PM MDT Mon Mar 17 2025

...RED FLAG WARNING IN EFFECT FROM 10 AM TO 4 PM MDT TUESDAY FOR
WIND AND LOW RELATIVE HUMIDITY FOR THE DENVER METRO AND PORTIONS
OF THE NORTHEAST PLAINS OF COLORADO...
...RED FLAG WARNING WILL EXPIRE AT 7 PM MDT THIS EVENING FOR WIND
AND LOW RELATIVE HUMIDITY FOR THE DENVER METRO AND PORTIONS OF
THE NORTHEAST PLAINS OF COLORADO...

The National Weather Service in Denver has issued a Red Flag
Warning for wind and low relative humidity, which is in effect
from 10 AM to 4 PM MDT Tuesday.

* AFFECTED AREA...Fire Weather Zones 239, 240, 241, 243, 244,
245 and 249.

* TIMING...From 10 AM to 4 PM MDT Tuesday.

* WINDS...Southwest 20 to 30 mph with gusts up to 45 mph.

* RELATIVE HUMIDITY...As low as 8 percent.

* IMPACTS...Conditions will be favorable for rapid fire spread.
Avoid outdoor burning and any activity that may produce a
spark and start a wildfire.

PRECAUTIONARY/PREPAREDNESS ACTIONS...

A Red Flag Warning means that critical fire weather conditions
are either occurring now....or will shortly. A combination of
strong winds...low relative humidity...and warm temperatures can
contribute to extreme fire behavior.

To unsubscribe from this group and stop receiving emails from it, send an email to volunteers+unsubscribe@nullgoldhillfire.org.

William Kent Coghill 

GOLD HILL FIRE PROTECTION DISTRICT, Proposed minutes of the Monday, February 17, 2025 Fire Board Meeting by Acting Secretary Gretchen Diefenderfer

Next Meeting is Monday, March 17, 2025, 7:00 p.m. at the Firebarn

MEETING BUSINESS – The meeting was called to order at 7:03 by Boyd Brown as President Kent Coghill was on shift.

Attendance – Present were other  Board Members Max Yeager and Jessica Brookhart, plus Val Crist and Secretary Gretchen Diefenderfer.  Attending by Zoom: Leslie Finn, Kent Coghill, Chief Rich Caudill, Chris Finn, Marcus Moench and Steffi Wilson.

Minutes – of the last meeting were approved with one change.

CHIEF’S MINUTES

Operational Needs – Rich reports that we did get the grant from Boulder County 1B funds for 40% of the truck plus more for a generator and upgrading the firebarn doors.  Total is $150,000 ($106,000 for the truck).  Jess expects they will get the check by April 1.  Some concern was expressed regarding the expected tariffs on aluminum and steel and potential effect on the cost of the truck.  Speaking with Jordan at Fauts, they have sourced the chassis – not exactly as planned – it has more options, but they will honor the original cost.  Also, the body has started to be fabricated – probably ready the 3^rd or 4^thquarter as scheduled.  We will need to get the radios in approx. 3 months, and ok the graphics.  Has a 2 door panel with logos and a stripe along the bottom angling up toward the rear, orange and red striped chevron on the back.  Chief will confer with Val and Dave Sturtz regarding the radios – probably a Bendix King (BK) dual band head – has to set up account with BK.  Second radio will probably be off brand.

Training – They’ve done lots of GH only training on radios, driving, emergency procedures and now will cycle back into multi district training.  Next month will be wildland/urban interface training with other jurisdictions.  Sent letter to other agencies explaining that we had to get our internal training taken care of first – no snub.

Maintenance –5404 will go into the shop on March 3 for the intercooler line, etc. to Ft. Collins – they’ll work on it as soon as they can.  5439 – A leak was found around the hose reel – on investigation the issue is the ball valve in the pump – able to add a second connection, support hose to booster.  Maybe lay a weld.  Will pick up parts and Chris Finn will help.

Equipment – Need to purchase medical kits for 39 and 02 at approx. $400 each, plus odds and ends – couplings, etc. – maybe $60-$80 each – will rotate out incompatible stuff and will definitely be frugal.   Jess reports we have $5,000 budgeted for medical, so that’s fine.  Boyd asked if we have tried going through AMR.  Rich reported that traditionally AMR will resupply us 1 for 1 for supplies we use on scene.  He can check about anything else with them.  A business named Bound Tree has good deals. Also, he’s been doing shopping on Craig’s list – that’s where he got the big shelf behind the truck and the commercial laminator.  Is also looking at a mini weather station for wind, barometer, temp.  Found one for $150 (half the cost of new) because it’s not needed now.  Jess requested the best receipt he can get or a screen shot for records

Recruitment – Steffi is outfitting Drew.  Rich would like to generate interest by talking up the milestones we’re achieving, communicating about increased resilience (like back up electricity/generator for the Firebarn), upgrading equipment – hoping to generate some excitement around that. Planning notice to town – include what commitments for time and training look like.

Mitigation Festival – Boyd reports it’s scheduled for mid-June.  There will be a fire department table with the File of Life – list of medical stuff to magnetically post on refrigerators to let medical responders know any conditions or issues – the plan is to distribute to all within our district.

Infrastructure – Rich is looking at the old water tank in back  and a long range plan for the water supply for the firebarn – brainstorming with Max.  Thinking about replacing it with a potable water tank – increase our ability to clean up equipment, etc., after an incident.  Grants – Rich will be looking for national grants available for health and safety to help with the water project and other projects.

Operational Readiness – Boyd reports that he’s met with Donal Maloney and the GHTM and the Mountain Aging Alliance and is adding 3 items to the Strategic Plan: 1) the File of Life magnetic list of medical info – will distribute to everyone and establish accepted standard place to post (refrigerator?). 2) Emergency response – NeighborLink and AirLink – conferred with Deb Yeager.  Will use that based on the buddy system, especially for emergency evacuation and people can connect with a central person. When the  department is responding to the fire or other emergency,  NeighborLink will be really useful.  3) Make sure everyone is signed up with ODM (Office of Disaster Management) and Everbridge (the County reverse 911) go to https://boulderodm.gov for all kinds of emergency information and to sign up.

 Capital Improvements – Kent has conferred with Chief O’Brien in Lefthand about his recommendations for a new Station.  He plans to put out an email to ask for interested parties to be on a committee to begin planning. We can apply for a DOLA grant for around $1 mil – has to be a match and has to include community space.  There is potential to apply to Boulder County Emergency Grants every year tor approx. $200,000 for plans, architect, etc. to help offset the matching.  Kent will be on the committee, would like 2 from the board – Max volunteered and the Chief, plus they want 1-2 firefighters, plus townspeople.

Budget – Jess reports that they had the grant in the budget already, so it didn’t change it.  They’re looking at iPads and the GIS system.  Jess would like to not spend everything this year and push other large expenses to next year.  Boyd added that frugal is a great strategy.  Rich plans to pursue grants for the GIS system – Firehouse Subs Grant process opens in April.  He’s in agreement with pushing out big expenses to 2026.  Max and Jess agreed. 

Vehicles/stickers.  Jess will do mock ups and then get professional help.  What about the Maltese Cross?  Rich said it was discussed at the company meeting – some people felt we’d decided on the logo we have now.  Any new design will be out for discussion to the membership.

5404 – Chief and Max will take it up on March 3 to get the pump intercooler line, etc. fixed

02 – is stable and the UTV is stable.

T-Shirt order? – Steffi reports we’re shy on XL, but have tons in some sizes. She’ll order if needed.

General – We need a decision on the DEO and a motion for the DEO to cancel the election if appropriate (no more candidates than positions to fill).  Jess, Kent, and Max will be interim DEOs, with Kent the lead.  Jess moved to appoint Kent DEO, and authorize him to cancel the election if appropriate.  Max seconded. Motion passed.

Grants – already reported on.

Mitigation Festival – Marcus, and Dan Maedke have been heavily involved in following up on the goats and checking on vendors recommended by Maya.  Gretchen mentioned that the goats had been pretty unpopular with the neighbors.  Teens, Inc. are scheduled to work following the festival.  Piles are being burned today and will finish up tomorrow.  Michael Wollard has been observing as the person closest who would be affected.  It’s produced lots of smoke and ash, but conditions are great – wet and no wind.  Steffi also reported that to say the neighbors were unhappy with the goats is an understatement. Dan is getting in contact with various vendors.  Steffi asked if there is a way for neighbors impacted to have input.  Marcus will check with Dan.  Boyd added that there is one vendor with a bigger herd that stays on 24 hours a day.  We need to address concerns, plus others in the subdivision are interested, too – lots of grasses there.  Boyd and Donal walked that area.  Chris Dirolf offered to walk it as well and approach landowners whose land would be affected.  Mitigating the undergrowth is important to slow fire spread.  Val asked if Teens, Inc. have specific projects.  Marcus replied that they’ve scheduled 4 days a week and will focus on areas of grow back from previous mitigation work.  Dan is the main contact, so talk to him with questions or concerns.  Boyd reported they’re working on a 5-7 year plan to stay on top of regrowth.  The know, with the current political climate, money sources are uncertain in the future – looking to develop some kind of rolling fund to be able to manage and keep on top of mitigation and regrowth.

Collaboration/CWPP – Chris D will report next meeting.

Website – no report.

Community Events/Fundraising – Kent reported that Larry as well as Paul and Anna and some others make donations every year and definitely wanted to make sure people are thanked.  Jess writes thankyou notes.

Parking Issues – Leslie reported that someone said that Whitey was planning a snowboard even on Main Street like last year, which was a disaster for traffic and access.  Nothing definitive so far.  Leslie added they would need a permit and medical plan, and have to notify the Fire Department.  Boyd will check in.

Signage – Rich reports Joanne Cole has emailed the Boulder County Sheriff again about Fire Danger Rating signs and he wants to see how that goes.  He’s talked to one vendor – estimated $300 – $340 per sign, also talking about burn ban signs and possibly a box to hold printed information that people could take concerning fire danger, protocols, etc. 

NEW BUSINESS

Credit/Debit Card for Rich requires a resolution to give him authorization to sign on the bank account so he can make purchases and pay bills.  Boyd so moved, Max seconded and it passed.  Jess will check with the bank and make sure about the necessary forms.

Exemption from Audit – Jess reported that since our budget is less than $750,000 a year, we can request exemption from audit.  She would use the same accountant as last year, John Cutler.  Max so moved, Jess seconded and it passed.  The resolution will need signatures of all the board members

Max moved we adjourn at 8:25 – passed.

Respectfully submitted, Gretchen Diefenderfer, Secretary

    URGENT - FIRE WEATHER MESSAGE
National Weather Service Denver/Boulder CO
154 PM MDT Sun Mar 16 2025

...RED FLAG WARNING IN EFFECT FROM NOON TODAY TO 7 PM MDT THIS
EVENING FOR WIND AND LOW RELATIVE HUMIDITY FOR THE NORTHEAST AND
SOUTHEAST PLAINS...

...RED FLAG WARNING IN EFFECT FROM MONDAY MORNING 11 AM THROUGH
MONDAY EVENING 7 PM FOR WIND AND LOW RELATIVE HUMIDITY FOR THE
URBAN CORRIDOR, SOUTHERN FOOTHILLS & SOUTH PARK, AND PORTIONS OF
THE PLAINS...

COZ214-216-170400-
/O.UPG.KBOU.FW.A.0003.250317T1700Z-250318T0100Z/
/O.NEW.KBOU.FW.W.0005.250317T1700Z-250318T0100Z/
Central and Southeast Park County-
Jefferson and West Douglas Counties Above 6000 Feet/Gilpin/Clear
Creek/Northeast Park Counties Below 9000 Feet-
154 PM MDT Sun Mar 16 2025

...RED FLAG WARNING IN EFFECT FROM 11 AM TO 7 PM MDT MONDAY FOR
WIND AND LOW RELATIVE HUMIDITY FOR SOUTH PARK AND THE SOUTHERN
FRONT RANGE FOOTHILLS...

The National Weather Service in Denver has issued a Red Flag
Warning for wind and low relative humidity, which is in effect
from 11 AM to 7 PM MDT Monday. The Fire Weather Watch is no
longer in effect.

* AFFECTED AREA...Fire Weather Zones 214 and 216.

* TIMING...From 11 AM to 7 PM MDT Monday.

* WINDS...Southwest 15 to 25 mph with gusts up to 40 mph.

* RELATIVE HUMIDITY...As low as 11 percent.

* IMPACTS...Conditions will be favorable for rapid fire spread.
  Avoid outdoor burning and any activity that may produce a
  spark and start a wildfire.

PRECAUTIONARY/PREPAREDNESS ACTIONS...

A Red Flag Warning means that critical fire weather conditions
are either occurring now....or will shortly. A combination of
strong winds...low relative humidity...and warm temperatures can
contribute to extreme fire behavior.

To unsubscribe from this group and stop receiving emails from it, send an email to volunteers+unsubscribe@nullgoldhillfire.org.

From Jeff Fishbaugh:  Be advised momma moose and calf in town, and that’s a pretty dangerous situation, but especially with an uptick in outside visitors and traffic that don’t know much about that kind of stuff. 

The Boulder County Sheriff’s Office will deploy a portable cellular site to the town of Gold Hill tomorrow to support 911 access during the preplanned power outage on Tuesday, March 11. Although it’s not guaranteed, 911 should be available  from your cell phone within the town, regardless of carrier.  Please only dial 911 if there is an emergency.  Questions can be sent to GoldhillFire.org

Rich Caudill

rich.caudill5460@nullgmail.com

Our next Calendar meeting is Saturday at Marie’s at 10.  You all, we’re still looking for photos related to Gold Hill, poems, drawings, great winter pictures, wild animal pictures, or any ideas you might want to suggest.  Let me know or Marie, Marilyn Soby, Boyd Brown, Kelly Dodds, Marybeth Neal, Jenna Gann, or Sophia Pardo (our  committee).

All kinds of news about the Nederland Food Pantry, Gardens & Clothing Closet – Open to all Peak-to-Peak Residents.

Location: 196 W 1st St., Nederland, CO 80466 Building 1: Pantry / Building 2: Office / Building 3: Clothing Closet Open Hours:  Tuesdays:10 AM – 3 PM   Thursdays 10 AM – 1 PM   Saturdays: 10 AM – 12 PM   720-418-0892 / info@nullnederlandfoodpantry.org / www.nederlandfoodpantry.org MONTHLY NEWS & UPDATES MARCH 2025   PANTRY, GARDENS & CLOTHING CLOSET Interested in supporting the Nederland Food Pantry, Gardens, or Clothing Closet? Here’s where we need support this month: FOOD PANTRY: Nederland Food Pantry is available to ALL Peak-to-Peak residents. Please don’t hesitate to reach out to us if you or someone you know needs help. PANTRY NEEDS: This month, the Pantry challenges you to host a food drive at your workplace or church—it’s such an easy and rewarding way to help! Choose a collection date and location, share the news with your colleagues or congregation, and encourage everyone to participate by donating cereal, canned soup, canned fruit, applesauce, and crackers.  Such a small act greatly helps our friends and neighbors facing food insecurity. Our board, staff, volunteers, and clients would be incredibly thankful for your support in keeping our pantry filled with essential supplies!   Please ensure that all donated items are unexpired and remain in their original, factory-sealed packaging. Thank you for your support! CLOTHING CLOSET: This is your friendly reminder that our Clothing Closet is Open to ALL Peak-to-Peak Residents! Remember, everything is FREE! Please reach out if you are interested in volunteering in the Closet to help sort clothing donations. CLOSET NEEDS: Men’s Winter Coats & Pants Boots: All Sizes Smaller Wasted Men’s Jeans & Pants Snow Pants & Ski Gloves Just a heads-up: the Closet only accepts donations during the first two weeks of each month. This helps us keep things manageable and ensures we have the support to sort through everything. Thanks for your understanding! Please make sure that all donations are clean and gently-used. We want our community to receive clothing that not only meets their needs but also helps them get a step ahead. Thank you for supporting the Closet!   Shop or drop off donations during our open hours: Tuesday: 10 – 3, Thursday: 10 – 1, and Saturday: 10 – 12. Questions call 720-418-0892 or email: info@nullnederlandfoodpantry.org     Trivia and Fun Facts DID YOU KNOW…?   Did you know that a single can of food can provide up to three meals to someone in need? Just imagine how many meals can be created from the generous donations we receive! Every little bit counts in helping to fight food insecurity in our community.    EVENTS & EXTRA’S Join Nederland Food Pantry for a Chickens 101 class! Learn how to raise chicks from a local backyard chicken enthusiast!  WHERE: Busey Brews WHEN: Wednesday, MARCH 5th TIME: 6 pm We suggest a $10 donation for NFP non-clients / NFP clients join us for FREE! Stay tuned for upcoming classes! Bring in the Astrological New Year with support and direction for your 2025 year, all while helping the Nederland Food Pantry! This event will help us raise funds for a much needed Outdoor Walk-in Cooler! WHERE: Busey Brews WHEN: Saturday, MARCH 22nd TIME: 5 – 7 p.m. WHAT YOU’LL FIND: Astrologers, Tarot Readers, Storytellers, Reiki Sessions and more! Join us for an evening of fun and mystery – all while helping a good cause! Hope to see you there! EVENTS HIGHLIGHTS & HAPPENINGS Celebrating our work! We were thrilled to welcome Congressman Joe Neguse to the Nederland Food Pantry on Tuesday, February 18th! It was an amazing opportunity to show him around and discuss the important work we’re doing to tackle food insecurity in our community. During his visit, we had some insightful conversations about the future of food security and how the rapidly evolving funding environment are affecting our ability to serve those in need. It was refreshing to engage with Congressman Neguse, who showed genuine interest in the challenges we face and the innovative solutions we’re putting into action. We truly appreciate the time he spent with us discussing these critical issues. Seeing our local leaders so invested in our community’s well-being is encouraging. Learn More! JOIN THE CAUSE Make a Difference This Tax Season Tax season is upon us—have you thought about how you can make a meaningful impact while also enjoying a potential tax write-off? Donating to the Nederland Food Pantry is a fantastic opportunity! Your generous support enables us to provide meals to our community in need. You also have the opportunity to help fund our vital projects, such as an outdoor walk-in cooler, generator back up, gardens, or help us get to our new, new location. Whatever your focus, it’s a win-win situation—you can feel proud to give back while potentially reducing your tax bill! Every contribution counts! Whether your donation is big or small, it all adds up and helps us serve those who rely on our pantry. If you’d like to learn more about how you can contribute, check out our website at www.nederlandfoodpantry.org, or email betty@nullnederlandfoodpantry.org to see how you can help. Thank you for being such an essential part of our community and for supporting our neighbors! THANK YOU!❤️ BUDGET FRIENDLY RECIPE POTATO LEEK SOUP Ingredients: – 3 medium potatoes, peeled and diced – 2 leeks, cleaned and chopped (white and light green parts) – 1 medium onion, chopped – 4 cups vegetable or chicken broth – 2 tablespoons butter or olive oil – Salt and pepper to taste – Fresh herbs (like parsley or chives) for garnish (optional) – 1 cup milk or cream (optional for creaminess) Instructions: In a large pot, melt the butter or heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and leeks, cooking until they are soft and translucent, about 5-7 minutes. Stir in the diced potatoes and cook for an additional 2 minutes. Add the vegetable or chicken broth to the pot. Bring to a boil, then reduce the heat to a simmer. Let it cook for about 20 minutes or until the potatoes are tender. If you prefer a creamy soup, use an immersion blender to purée the soup directly in the pot until smooth. Alternatively, you can transfer the soup in batches to a blender. (Be cautious of the hot liquid!) OPTIONAL: If you want a creamier texture, stir in the milk or cream and heat through. Season the soup with salt and pepper to taste. Ladle into bowls and garnish with fresh herbs if desired. Tips to Save Money: – Use potatoes that are on sale or buy in bulk to save money. – This soup can easily be made vegetarian by using vegetable broth. – Leftover soup can be stored in the fridge and freezes well for future meals. FINDING STRENGTH IN VULNERABILITY In trying to find a relevant “life hack” to share in the newsletter this week, I instead kept coming back to a moment in my early adulthood that, for some reason, I couldn’t look past. Though this memory is not one that I’m proud of, l feel a tremendous sense that this story is pertinent; that it must be told now.  So here it goes… In my early twenties, a time I don’t look back on fondly, I knew nothing about hacking life; I knew more about shirking responsibility. I grew, despite being deprived of that which is needed to do so, and in this stunted growth a chip on my shoulder also emerged. Being financially deficient in a city known for its excess, that chip on the shoulder evolved into a full-blown complex. What began as a headstrong bias against the rich, and a distaste for the system that makes them richer, soon led me into a cycle of poverty, depression, and self-sabotage.  The bare minimum was my modus operandi. I became a dedicated, professional slacker; a designer-label layabout. I wore these epithets proudly, until they began to wear like weighted security blankets, covering me and pulling me down into comfortable darkness.   In the ocean of life, I was clearly floundering, but I was also prideful and therefore in deep denial of this fact. I lived as though I was constantly running from my own hand, which clutched a knife that it swung menacingly and furiously at my own back.   I didn’t know the damage I was doing, living my life in that way. I never realized that there were real people in my wake, or that I was destroying my own mental and physical health. At the time it was all just “collateral damage,” as if all of life is meant to be an unmitigated disaster that no one has control over.    My own stubbornness and refusal to reach out for help, the insistence on self-diagnosing and self-medicating my own issues, and to take it all onto my own shoulders, eventually took its toll. The waste runoff from a series of mistakes began to metastasize, and became an inescapable wave, enveloping everything.   I became so hungry I started stealing food from my jobs, until I was fired for doing so. Whether it was expired food in the stockroom that was about to be thrown away, or food right off of the shelves, I always only took what I needed to get through the rest of my shift.  I even got arrested in my hometown, stealing from the local grocery store, just so I wouldn’t go to bed hungry that night. Just another cry for help printed in the police blotter of a small town newspaper.  So, when trying to come up with a life hack for living on a budget to write about this month, I couldn’t help but think about that time I was arrested with a roast beef sandwich in the inner pocket of my winter coat. And then I thought of all the other times I was arrested after that; each crime, and the charges involved, getting subsequently worse. To a young twenty-something who can feel the impossible weight of the world, and who is lost among the trees, blind to the forest, and unknowing that the forest is of their own design, the “point” of a life hack would be lost on them. That knowledge can’t be absorbed and sustained until the vessel isn’t so full of itself.  I suppose the lesson that this moment is trying to teach me by repeatedly creeping back into my memories, is that as important as it is to learn self-sufficiency, it is equally as important to learn to ask for help.   Letting go of one’s pride and trusting in others can appear as the greatest threat to those whose emotional scar tissue has formed into armor. Disarmament leads to exposure, to utmost vulnerability, the state when many of us have been the most hurt.  But real protection comes from love and trust, in yourself and in others. Asking for help isn’t a sign of weakness, or something to be judged by, but it’s extending an olive branch, it’s appealing to others with a gesture of good-faith, as love, trust, respect, and compassion are most effective when traveling on a two-way street.  – If you find yourself facing tough times—whether it’s hungry nights, financial stress, or emotional turmoil—I urge you to seek support. The Nederland Food Pantry is here to lend a hand, not just by providing food but also by fostering a community where we can lean on one another. Remember, asking for help is a brave step, and it can lead to unexpected connections and newfound strength. Thank you! If you’re interested in helping, we’d appreciate it! Our mountain community has a special way of coming together and every bit of help counts. Whether volunteering, donating, or simply spreading the word, it all makes a difference. You’ll find our change jars at Dam Liquors, Peak Liquors, and Mountain Goat Tees—every contribution, no matter how small, helps us support our friends and neighbors in need. Just think: one can, or one coat may seem insignificant, but when everyone pitches in, it makes a real difference! Your monetary donation, regardless of the amount, helps us to purchase nutritious foods and warm clothing. We’re stronger together, and we genuinely appreciate your kindness and generosity in making our community a healthier and better place. If you want to learn more about how you can get involved, click the ‘More Information’ button below. Thank you for being a part of our mountain family! More Information A big thank you to all our amazing contributors, including our dedicated board, staff and wonderful volunteers, for your hard work and creativity that make this newsletter so special! We appreciate everything you do!   Peak Abundance | Contact Us | FAQs | Privacy Policy

Nederland Food Pantry | 196 W 1st St | Nederland, CO 80466 US Unsubscribe | Update Profile | Constant Contact Data Notice

Ray from Sturgeon Electric (720-812-7966) reports “The Big Dog Outage” on Tuesday, March 11 in all directions from the crossroads.  The whole town is included plus up Sunshine to the Mill, down Lickskillet to Val’s, out west to the Switzerland Trail, and down Fourmile and Dixon Road –  will all be out from 8 am to possibly 4:30.  The good news is that he’s been in touch with Chief Caudill and the plan is to have a generator at the connection box at the crossroads so our telephones will still work.  As before, they will have flaggers and signs where they’re actually working on particular poles – there may be some (hopefully short) delays.

Also, they will be replacing a couple more poles on Main Street the end of this week and there may be short delays and traffic re-routing there, also flaggers and signs.

P.S., from Dan

Residents,

Tomorrow Tuesday the 11th there will be maintenance work on the power polls. This means the power will be shut completely off from 8am to 5pm. The amount of our area  includes the whole town plus up Sunshine to the Mill, down Lickskillet to Val’s, out west to the Switzerland Trail, and down Fourmile and Dixon Road.  Please plan accordingly! Neighbors please check on your neighbors and make sure everyone is ok. If you get this email and know of a neighbor or a renter who may not of heard please let them know.

Dan Maedke, maedkedan@nullgmail.com
Sent from my iPad

The Umpteenth Annual St. Patrick’s Day Party Starring Donal Maloney is back!

March 22, 2025 from 3 to 9 pm
At the Mulligans’ in the subdivision, 89 Gold Trail

Food! Guinness! Music! Friends! Craic!
….and of course Traditional Irish Karaoke

Questions? Contact Mary Claire

Mary Claire Mulligan
mcmulligan@nullme.com
303-898-038

Hello Everyone,

Welcome to our March update!

In this email: announcements on three presentations in March on senior services in the mountains 

and advance emergency planning. 

This is our chance to ask questions, express concerns, and make connections!

Our first presentation is at our March meeting this Tuesday March 4 at 4 pm at the Gold Hill School.

Please sign up for the Gold Hill Geezer What’s App group to discuss any of this and more; that’s why it was set up.   The consensus is that there are too many people on our email list here

to do this well on email. The email list is just for announcements and accessing each other’s emails.

To get on the What’s App group, email Paul or Marcus (see emails above).

Looking forward to seeing everyone at our March meeting THIS COMING TUESDAY MARCH 4 at 4 pm at our wonderful Gold Hill School!!!

Best,

Pam 

List of March Presentations:

ONE

Colleen Sinclair presenting on: how can we meet needs and plan as we age in the Gold Hill Area?  

Tuesday MARCH 4 at 4 pm 

IN-PERSON at Gold Hill School

Colleen Sinclair is an Emergency Manager at Boulder County Public Health.

She was the Mountain Representative for BoCo AAA for seven years. 

She serves in the Emergency Operations Center at the Office of Disaster Management

during events.

Colleen is a long-term mountain resident and is passionate about addressing 

this topic in the mountains for Seniors and others. 

She co-chairs the InterMountain Alliance in western BoCo.

Please come with your questions! She wants to hear from us.  

Registration not needed, just show up.

photo by zapCulture on Pixabay.com

TWO

InterMountain Alliance Disaster Preparedness Planning Workshop – Virtual, online

Wednesday MARCH 5 at Noon online

Location: Virtual  Register here

Join presenter Monika Weber, Emergency Manager at the Boulder Office of Disaster Management (Boulder ODM) to gain the knowledge and pre-planning skills that are crucial when disaster strikes!

By participating in this Disaster Preparedness Planning Workshop,  you will work through scenarios and leave with your own personal preparedness plans for communication, evacuation, and sheltering-in-place.  Not only will you leave with tangible next steps, but an increased confidence in your readiness skills!

This workshop will focus on some of the unique aspects and challenges that exist for mountain residents. Come with senior-related questions!!!

Register here

For questions, accommodation requests, or support with registration please call 303-441-3647 or e-mail mweber@nullbouldercounty.gov.

photo courtesy of Ylvers on Pixabay.com

THREE

BoCo Area Agency on Aging is coming to Gold Hill to Present in person on Aging Services in the Mountains 

Tuesday MARCH 25 at 4 pm 

IN-PERSON at The Gold Hill School 

Boulder County Area Agency on Aging is bringing four representatives in person to present to us on Aging Services in the Mountains.

Corrin Godar is Supervisor of Caregivers/Caregiving at BoCo AAA, Monet Scott is our BoCo AAA Mountain Representative, Lyndsey Neville is in charge of Policy at BoCo AAA and I don’t know Amy.  They want to meet with us in person. The will be presenting a power point; a video recording will be available for those unable to attend. Coming in person will help us establish a relationship with them and ask questions.  Registration not needed; just show up.

☀️🌲🌲🌲🌲🌲🌲🌲🌲🌲🌲🌲🌲🌲🌲🌲🌲🌲🌲🌲🌲🌲☀️☀️☀️🌲🌲🌲🌲🌲🌲🌲🌲🌲🌲🌲🌲🌲🌲🌲🌲🌲🌲🌲🌲🌲🌲🌲☀️

🌲🌲🌲🌲🌲🌲🌲🌲☀️☀️☀️☀️🌲🌲🌲🌲🌲🌲🌲🌲🌲🌲🌲🌲🌲🌲🌲🌲🌲🌲🌲🌲🌲🌲🌲🌲🌲☀️☀️☀️☀️🌲🌲🌲🌲🌲🌲🌲🌲🌲🌲

GOLD HILL TOWN MEETING NEWSLETTER

Minutes of the February 10, 2025 Zoom and in person Town Meeting

 A Special Town Meeting has also been called for Monday, March 10, at 7:00 p.m. at the Gold Hill School, In Person and Zoom To finish discussing the proposed bylaw changes, and to finish the Agenda from the February GHTM

 The meeting was called to order by Chair Dan Maedke.  Present were Dan, David Brigham, Maggie Simms, Michael Albes, Michael Wollard, Martha Knapp, Leslie Finn, Vice Chair Kelly Veit, Boyd Brown, Marcus Moench, Elisabeth Caspari, and Secretary Gretchen Diefenderfer.  Attending by Zoom were Don and Marie Brookhart, Treasurer Chrissy Maedke, Shivaun Finn, Kaitlyn Barthell, Paul Landskroener, Marybeth Neal, Pam Sherman, Member at Large John Hatelid, Torkin Wakefield, and Steffi Wilson.

Minutes – of the December regular town meeting and the January special town meeting were approved as published.

Treasurer’s Report – Chrissy has purchased Quick Books and a card reader.

It was decided to move directly to discussing the Bylaw amendments.  Dan read Chrissy’s Summary Statement:

Why update the bylaws?

Periodically reviewing and updating nonprofit bylaws is essential to ensure they remain relevant, clear, and compliant with state laws. For our Town Council, this process addressed problematic areas, particularly those related to managing grant finances. As stewards of these funds, it is critical to have accountability measures in place to allocate money properly and protect it from unintended uses. While revisions to address these financial responsibilities are forthcoming, our initial bylaw updates clarified roles and procedures that were previously vague or misleading. We also streamlined language to avoid potential legal challenges and strengthen our overall governance framework.

Summary Statement Continued:

What changes came out of the special meeting on the 14th of January?

• At the special meeting on January 14th, several minor but meaningful changes were made to our bylaws. First, we adjusted the language around time requirements, introducing a two-week deadline for notifications in most cases. An exception was made for the dissolution of the organization, which now requires a month’s notice.
• To simplify the bylaws and improve their functionality, we committed to creating a Policy Manual. This manual will house the detailed procedures and guidelines for how the Gold Hill Town Meeting (GHTM) and Town Council operate. The goal is to keep the bylaws as straightforward statements of governance, while policies—being easier to revise—provide the flexibility necessary for the organization to adapt to future circumstances. In the document, sections moved from the bylaws to the Policy Manual are clearly indicated.
• Additionally, minor language edits were made throughout the document to clarify or simplify the wording without altering the intended meaning.
• This careful revision process strengthens our governance framework and ensures our bylaws remain clear, flexible, and adaptable to our community’s evolving needs.
• In attendance at January Special Meeting: Boyd Brown, Paul Landskroener, Marcus Moench, Dan Maedke, Maggie Simms, David Brigham, Gretchen Diefenderfer, Virginia Schultz, Elisabeth Caspari, Chrissy Maedke.  Additional input from Leslie Finn & Bear Carlson.

Summary Statement Continued:

Why do we need a Policy Manual?

Having a policy manual in addition to bylaws offers significant benefits for nonprofit organizations. While bylaws provide the foundational framework and overarching principles that govern the organization, a policy manual allows for detailed, adaptable guidelines that outline specific procedures and operations. This separation ensures the bylaws remain concise and focused on governance, avoiding unnecessary complexity. Policies, on the other hand, can be more easily revised to address evolving needs or circumstances without the formal amendment process required for bylaw changes. This flexibility helps the organization respond quickly to new challenges or opportunities while maintaining alignment with its mission and legal obligations. A well-structured policy manual also promotes consistency and transparency, ensuring that members and leadership have a clear, accessible resource for operational guidance.

Summary Statement Continued:

Will we vote on these at the February 10th meeting?  

Yes. This set of bylaw changes was first proposed and presented at the October general membership meeting. The revisions were over a year in the making by the Bylaw Committee, with consistent opportunities for participation and feedback from the membership. A special meeting was held in November to review and suggest revisions to the proposed changes. In December, the bylaws underwent a section-by-section initial vote, during which all proposals were approved as first drafts by the membership.

In January, another special meeting was convened to make minor adjustments to some of the proposed bylaws. These changes focused on clarifications and refinements without altering the intent of the content. Now, after this thorough process, we are ready to hold a final vote on the proposed amendments at the February 10th meeting. This vote represents the culmination of a collaborative, transparent, and thoughtful effort to strengthen and modernize our governance framework.

For the previous Bylaws, go to our website  goldhilltown.com  and click on What is the Gold Hill Town Meeting under Community Information on the left.  For the January GHTM minutes, see Gold Hill Town Meeting farther down.

With that, we embarked on a long discussion.  Martha asked about the policy manual – who’s creating it – how does it get amended?  Dan replied that we’re trying to get to a point where decisions can be made re grants, etc. more easily.   The intent is to come back to the membership to clean up the bylaws and create the policies.  A policy manual is easier to edit than the bylaws.  Marcus added that having been chair, the ideal is direct democracy, but really few people elect the council and they’ve been uncomfortable applying for grants with no formal authority to talk to the County, the Boulder Watershed Coalition (BWC), etc.,  especially when we had to commit to matching funds.  There’s been a lack of clarity about how the town meeting authorizes the town council for grants, the goat grazing, etc. in order to make timely decisions.  They haven’t missed any collaboration on grants with the BWC and the BV Conservation agency yet, but they haven’t led any, which we might want to do in the future.  Maya McHamer of the BWC notified Dan and offered the mitigation opportunity to him and the Mountain Stewards committee.  There is the potential to have a short time to respond and make a contractual commitment.  We need clarity that amending the bylaws and creating a procedural manual could give us.  Leslie stressed that transparency will be critical and massive communication would be essential to give people the opportunity for input.  Dan agreed that that is our policy – communication and transparency.  Shivaun Hoyl questioned how the policies in the manual will apply – all that’s to be worked out.  Marcus added that if the town meeting wants to move on grants, we need to be in a position where the town council is legally protected.

         Martha suggested that appointed committees could be authorized for all this.  Marcus again added that we need to be protected by our non-profit status (and our bylaws) to act expeditiously – sometimes within weeks vs the months between meetings.  Leslie reported that the fire department applies for a lot of grants and generally has time to apply and hear back, but there could sometimes be urgency. Boyd thought that agencies might want to deal with the council and not a committee – they’ll want an organization that has legal status.  There can be an issue of trust – not many people show up and the people elected can be whoever we can cajole to serve.  The fire department just got through a quick turnaround applying for grants for a new fire truck – they asked the chief to write the grant application and it all happened in December.

         Virginia suggested that we need to think if we’re reacting from a place of fear.  This would not be the town council deciding who gets money, but deciding what to apply for.  Deb wondered about the path of grant applications for Gold Hill.  What does the town want to pursue – what do we all want to seek grants for?   What are the plans/ideas/goals?   She would like to see a more structured path from what the town’s interested in pursuing and would look for a grant to support.   The present path doesn’t feel grounded to her.  Dan agreed that it has been a bit haphazard. And our first goal is to clean up the bylaws and put together a policy manual.  Deb wanted to know what are the “big things” being talked in the future that we’re doing this for?  Dan said that we won’t go for any grants unless the town wants to and supports.  Chrissy said the ability for a quick turn-around is a small piece, part of this bylaw amendment process is just a clean-up to make sure we’re in legal compliance.  Paul added that these proposed amendments to the bylaws are not about the relative  balance between the town meeting vs the town council.  These modest changes are to rationalize the structure.  Subsequently, the balance between the town meeting and the town council will be addressed. 

We then turned to looking at the bylaws, which, under the  present bylaws, takes a 2/3 vote to amend

Article I: Name, Purpose and Mailing Address.  Section A: Name

The name of this organization shall be Gold Hill Town Meeting, Inc. (GHTM)

Section A: Name – Proposed Change

The name of this organization is Gold Hill Town Meeting, Inc. (GHTM)

APPROVED, 19 – 0

Section C: Mailing Address

The mailing address of the Gold Hill Town Meeting, Inc. shall be

1011 Main Street – Gold Hill

Boulder, Colorado 80302-8777

Section C: Mailing Address – Proposed Changes

The town council shall establish and publicize a mailing address for the organization

This becomes policy, not bylaws

The mailing address of the Gold Hill Town Meeting, Inc. is

1011 Main Street (Gold Hill)

Boulder, Colorado 80302-8777

There was discussion about keeping the address in the bylaws.  Gretchen so moved (which was apparently out of order, but we voted and it was defeated 8-9).  Deb opined that we don’t need to add Gold Hill to the address. 

Defeated – Virginia made a motion in favor of adoption.  The vote was 10 in favor and 9 opposed, which did not meet the 2/3 threshold and the motion was defeated.  Address will stay as in the previous bylaws adopted 12-14-2020.

Article II: Membership

Section A: Eligibility –

Those residing in the following area are members and may vote at town meetings, provided they fulfill the voting requirements set forth in Article II, Section 2, Qualification.   This area is identified as that included in the boundaries of the Gold Hill Fire Protection District (GHFPD)

 Section B: Qualifications: In order to vote, a member of the Gold Hill Town Meeting, Inc. must:

1. Be a minimum of 18 years of age.
2. Have lived in Gold Hill for sixty days during the twelve months prior to the meeting or for sixty days during the previous five years with no less than five days in any one year.
3. Be registered with the Secretary at the meeting.
4. Be present at the meeting to be certified to vote at that meeting.

Section A: Eligibility: Proposed Changes

Section A: Eligibility-

All residents and property owners within the Gold Hill Fire Protection District who are over the age of 18 are members of the Gold Hill Town Meeting and have voting rights. Each member is entitled to cast one vote on any issue that requires a vote by the GHTM membership, regardless of the number of properties owned. 

(The above map is included)

APPROVED –  Steffi questioned the loose definition of resident, but David moved that we adopt the proposed changes and Marcus seconded.  The vote was 17 – 0.

Article III: Members Meetings

Section A, Regular meetings –

Regular meetings of the Gold Hill Town Meeting, Inc. shall be held six times each year: February, April, June, August, October, and December on the second Monday of the month at such time and place as may be determined by the Town Council.

Section A: General Membership Meetings – Proposed Changes

The GHTM will hold general membership meetings a minimum of six times per year on a regularly established schedule.  Changes from the previously announced schedule can be made, giving members reasonable notice.  These meetings may be held electronically and/or in person, as decided by the Town Council.  Meeting minutes will be recorded and promptly distributed to the membership.

This becomes policy not bylaws:

The GHTM will hold general membership meetings six times each year on the second Monday of February, April, June, August, October, and December – or on an alternative date, time, and location as determined by the Town Council with at least two week’s notice given for rescheduled meetings.

APPROVED – Maggie moved that we adopt the amendment and it was approved 17 to 2.

Article III: Members Meetings

Section B: Annual Meetings

The annual meeting of the Gold Hill Town Meeting, Inc. shall be held on the second Monday of August each year.  The election of Town Council members shall be held at the annual meeting.

Section B: Town Council Election Meeting – Proposed Changes

The annual election of Town Council members shall take place during the general

membership meeting in August

 APPROVED – Leslie moved we adopt the amendment, David seconded and it was approved 19 – 0.

Article III: Members Meetings

Section C: Budget Meetings

The annual budget meeting of the Gold Hill Town Meeting, Inc. shall be held annually at the October Town Meeting. The GHTM Treasurer shall submit estimated income and expenses for the following year.  Requests for funding from the general fund may be made by the various Committees or any constituency of the GHTM at this meeting, and at any regularly scheduled meeting.

Section C: Budget Meetings- Proposed Changes

The GHTM will approve a budget before the start of the next fiscal year.  The Town Council must establish a policy for submitting requests from the budget.  

This becomes policy not bylaws

Committees or individuals seeking funding from the general fund must submit their requests to the Treasurer at the October general membership meeting.

At the budget meeting, the Treasurer shall present the proposed income and expenses for the following year.  The general membership will review and consider the proposed budget.  The Town Council, by majority vote, may adopt the proposed budget as submitted or make amendments.  If the budget for the following year is not approved at the meetng, the current budget will remain in effect until a new budget is approved.

This generated a lot of discussion, particularly around the Town Council vs the Town Meeting approving the budget.

Defeated – This amendment was defeated 4 – 15.

Article III: Members Meetings

Section D: Special Meetings –

 Special meetings of the Gold Hill Town Meeting, Inc. may be called by the Chair:

1. At the request of at least three members of the Town Council.
2. By petition requesting a special meeting signed by at least twenty members of the Gold Hill Town Meeting, Inc.

Section D: Special Meetings – Proposed Changes

Special meetings are additional general membership meetings called to address urgent concerns or expedite town business. Special meetings of the GHTM may be called by the Chair:

1. Upon the written request of at least three members of the Town Council, or
2. By a petition requesting a special meeting, signed by at least twenty members of the GHTM.

Approved – Leslie moved that we approve the amendment, Maggie seconded and the vote was 18 – 0.

Article III: Members Meetings

Section E: Written Notice

Written notice of all members’ meetings shall be posted to the town website (goldhilltown.com), emailed to all members, and sent by U.S. Mail to those who request them at least two weeks prior to all regular, annual, and special meetings.

Section E: Written Notice – Proposed Changes

The Town Council must provide notice of the date, time, location, and agenda for any general membership or special meeting at least two weeks in advance. Notice may be given through various methods, including, but not limited to, electronic notification to individuals on the town’s mailing list, news outlets, the town website, or social media within the GHTM member area.

Approved   David moved we adopt the amendment, Leslie seconded, and it passed 17 – 0

 Article III: Members Meetings

Section F: Quorum

A quorum for a member’s meeting of the Gold Hill Town Meeting, Inc. shall exist if three of five members of the Town Council are present to transact any business to be presented in accordance with the Articles of Incorporation or Code of Bylaws.

Section F – Quorum Proposed Changes

 A quorum for a GHTM general membership meeting is required to call for a membership vote. A quorum is considered present if:

• At least three of the five members of the Town Council, and
• At least five other members of the GHTM

are in attendance to conduct any business.

Approved – Leslie moved we adopt the amendment, David seconded and it passed 17 – 0

Article III.5 Conflicts (Proposed Addition of New Article)

Section G: Conflict of Interest- Add to bylaws

To ensure Town Council members fulfill their duties of loyalty to the organization and maintain transparency with the membership, the Town Council will establish a Conflict of Interest policy. This policy requires all Town Council members to disclose any actual or potential conflicts of interest—financial or otherwise—that may affect their ability to act in the best interests of the organization.

Town Council members must disclose such conflicts in writing at least once a year, and whenever a conflict arises. Any member with a conflict of interest is required to recuse themselves from discussions or decisions related to that matter.

This generated quite a bit of discussion.  Martha questioned the term “loyalty”, but Paul said it’s a legal term with a known definition and a conflict of interest statement needs to be in the bylaws.  John added that the conflict of interest must be publicly known so the Town Meeting knows and can evaluate it. Val added town meeting members should be able to bring up possible conflict of interest issues as well.  Chrissy answered that details will be in the policy manual.

Approved – The motion carried 15 – 0

• Article III.5 Conflicts (Proposed Addition of New Article)
• Section H. Membership Code of Conduct – Add to Bylaws
• The Town Council will establish a written Code of Conduct policy to govern participation in general membership meetings, events, and other official communications. The Code of Conduct encourages the expression of opinions and viewpoints in a civil manner while prohibiting the use of abusive language or behavior that is disrespectful to others or disrupts the orderly conduct of business.
• If a participant violates the Code of Conduct, the Town Council may impose consequences. These may include, but are not limited to, asking the individual to leave a meeting or prohibiting further contact with Town Council members.

Again, there was a lot of discussion pro and con. 

Defeated – Leslie moved we adopt, David seconded.  It was defeated 4 – 10

Article IV: Town Council

Section A: Members – Proposed Combining with Section H

The Town Council shall consist of five members: Chair, Vice Chair, Secretary, Treasurer, and Member-at-Large.

Martha and several others thought it didn’t make sense to combine it – that it makes more sense alone.

Defeated – Leslie moved we adopt, Boyd seconded.   Combining this with Section H was voted down 6 – 9, and it stands as Section A.

 Article IV: Town Council

Section H. Town Council Duties

Each Town Council member shall have the duties ordinarily attending the office held and other duties as the Town Council may designate.

Section H. Proposed Changes

The Town Council is responsible for overseeing the organization’s business and properties and for fulfilling all duties under Colorado state law for nonprofit corporations, as well as those outlined in these bylaws. Each Town Council member will perform the duties typically associated with their office and any additional responsibilities as designated by the Town Council.  

Approved – Leslie moved we adopt the amendment, Maggie seconded and it carried 18-0.

Article IV: Town Council

Section B: Eligibility

The Chair, Vice Chair, Secretary, and Treasurer must be a year round resident defined as an individual who has lived within the bounds of the Gold Hill Town Meeting area at least nine consecutive months prior to the election.  All five council members shall be a minimum of 18 years of age.

Section B: Eligibility – Proposed Change

All members of the Town Council must be voting members of the GHTM, as defined in these bylaws. Additionally, the Chair, Vice Chair, Secretary, and Treasurer must have resided within the GHTM area for at least nine consecutive months prior to their election.

Approved – Leslie moved we adopt the amendment, Martha seconded and it passed with 15 in favor.  Steffi again said that we have not clearly defined what a resident is, but we did not address that.

Article IV: Town Council

Section C: Term of Office

 Each council member shall hold office until a successor is duly elected and qualified.   Any council member may resign at any time by giving written notice to the Town Council.  Any such resignation shall take effect at the time specified therein, and, unless otherwise specified, the acceptance of such resignation shall not be necessary to make it effective.

Section C: Term of Office – Proposed Change

Each Town Council member shall serve a one-year term or until a successor is duly elected and qualified. A Town Council member may resign at any time by submitting written notice to the Town Council. The resignation will take effect as specified in the notice, and, unless otherwise indicated, no formal acceptance is required for it to become effective.

Approved – Leslie moved we adopt the amendment, Boyd seconded and it passed 18 – 0.

 Article IV: Town Council

Section D: Removal

Any council member may be removed according to the following procedure:

1. At a scheduled meeting, where a quorum is present, the removal of a council member may be proposed by a simple majority of those members present.
2. The proposed removal of a council member must be included with the minutes of the meeting and distributed to the members at least two weeks prior to the next regularly scheduled meeting.
3. At the next scheduled meeting, the council member may be removed by a majority vote of the Gold Hill Town Meeting.

 Section D: Removal – Proposed Change

A Town Council member may be removed through the following procedure:

1. Removal may be proposed by:
   • Any Town Council member, or
   • At least ten GHTM members through a written petition.
2. The proposed removal must be included in the agenda for the general membership meeting and distributed to the members at least two weeks prior to the meeting.
3. Removal requires a two-thirds majority vote of the membership present at a general membership meeting where a quorum of Town Council members is present. The member proposed for removal does not count towards the quorum for the meeting.

Approved – Leslie moved we adopt the amendment, Boyd seconded, and it passed 15-1.

At this point it was almost 10 pm.  Michael moved we adjourn and it was seconded and passed.

The consensus was that we would call a Special Town Meeting in March to finish the bylaws and the rest of tonight’s agenda, and we adjourned.

Respectfully submitted, Gretchen Diefenderfer, Secretary

Ray Thornton of Sturgeon Electric (720-812-7966) updated the information on the power outage happening Thursday, the 27th, for most of the day.  The outage will be down Fourmile on the west side (down from the crossroads in town) and in the GH subdivision.  They will be replacing power poles for Xcel Electric and will need to close the north end of  Dixon road in Gold Hill for a couple of hours from approximately 8:30 am to 10:30 am to replace the first pole.  People wanting to enter or leave the Subdivision will need to head in or out of the south end of Dixon.  They will have flaggers and signs, but wanted to alert people of the road closure ahead 0f time so they can plan ahead.

Hello,