Gold Hill Town Meeting

Monday, 7:00 p.m. April 12th, 2020

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Zoom Virtual Meeting

Topic: Gold Hill Virtual Town Meeting

Time: Apr 12, 2021 07:00 PM Mountain Time (US and Canada)

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____________________________________________________________

Review of Previous Minutes (additions or corrections)

Treasurer’s Report

Committee Reports

Mountain Stewards 

Forestry and Forest Management

Gold Hill School

Museum 

Community Planning and Fundraising 

Cemetery

Community Center

SafeLink/NeighborLink 

Food Pantry

Emergency Preparedness/Communications

AirLink 

Weed Management

Historical Zoning

Fire Department

Other Town News: 

Speed Study Update:

County is getting ready to hire on a couple of traffic interns for the summer to do counts, but also waiting for warmer weather. 

Evaluating if there are missing speed signs, as we have few in town – checking the Manual of Uniform Traffic Control Devices (MUTCD). If signs are missing that should be in place, they can add more in good weather. If all signs are intact, they will wait until after the speed study so signage doesn’t compromise the data.

Community Concerns: 

Campers west of town have the potential to increase risk of wildfires, attract animals due to food and waste, and can present the issue of improperly disposed of waste materials. Fire Department has discussed this concern at the last board meeting and plans to conduct a drone test to learn if a drone could respond to a call by flying out to the site to capture photos to tell if a campfire is or is not unattended. This test will help to identify possible solutions. Additionally, private property owners should post “no trespassing” signs on property lines.

Upcoming Meetings/Events

         Town Cleanup and Summer Wildfire Prep: 

–A Holistic Perspective on Wildfire Mitigation: Monday, April 19th at 7:00pm – GHTM & GHFPD in partnership present Abby Silver, Wildfire Partners and Maya McHamer, Boulder Watershed Collective to speak on importance of wildfire mitigation from greater landscape scale down to individual property. Topics: forest health, ecological benefits of mitigation and fire, environmental sensitivity, creating defensible space and home hardening on larger mountain parcels and in the more “urban” setting of the Gold Hill townsite, as well as touching on issues around homeowners insurance. 

–Town Cleanup Day: Date Proposed – last weekend in June (Sat 26 or Sun 27) – Dumpsters available for Spring Cleaning

–Wildfire Mitigation Week: Date TBD – Dumpsters, equipment, and skilled crew      available to assist Gold Hill residents with wildfire mitigation on your property!

Gold Rush Bike Rally: September 19 (Dan)

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Next Gold Hill Town Meeting: June 14th, 7:00 pm

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Calendar Meeting coming up this coming Thursday, April 15th, 10:30.  Still always looking for pictures, drawings, ideas.  

We’re looking for March snow photos, dog photos, certainly any drawings. Any great pictures of last 4th of July?  Other historical Gold Hill happenings?  How bout New Faces in Old Places

Fire managers contain fire near Gross Reservoir yesterday

BOULDER, Colo. (April 2, 2021) – Fire managers yesterday contained a 9-acre fire that started from slash pile burning operations near Gross Reservoir Dam March 21 and 23.

Warm and dry air along with strong winds caused fire to creep between slash piles and caused some torching of larger standing vegetation. Forest Service personnel have been monitoring the piles daily as part of the prescribed fire burn plan and were able to respond quickly along with partners from local fire departments.

While the burn area was larger than planned, public safety was never a concern.

The slash piles were part of Forsythe II Unit 51, a 79-acre forest thinning project near the southern shores of Gross Reservoir. The project’s goal is to help restore healthier forest conditions that are more resilient to wildfire in the Middle Boulder Creek watershed. The project area was slated for prescribed fire treatments following the thinning to remove slash piles.

The treatments were designed to reduce fires’ ability to move across the landscape and were beneficial in helping fire managers quickly put line around the area and contain the spread. They will continue monitoring these and other recently burned piles throughout the upcoming warm weather spell.

In all, the Forest has burned more than 3,000 piles this winter. Burned areas are closely monitored until all heat is gone. Prescribed fire conducted under the right conditions is an essential part of restoring healthy forest ecosystems along Colorado’s Front Range.

Forest Service fire managers successfully contained the burn with assistance from cooperators including Coal Creek Fire, Timberland Fire, Mountain View Fire, Lefthand Fire, Boulder County Fire, City of Boulder Fire and the Colorado Division of Fire Prevention and Control. Denver Water supported operations by closing the road to its recreation areas.

This electronic message contains information generated by the USDA solely for the intended recipients. Any unauthorized interception of this message or the use or disclosure of the information it contains may violate the law and subject the violator to civil or criminal penalties. If you believe you have received this message in error, please notify the sender and delete the email immediately.

Hello all,

We are suddenly finding ourselves with TWO upcoming vaccination clinics in Nederland for folks 60+ and have 35 spaces left to fill. The first one on April 6^th, with a follow up clinic on May 4^th is full, but the second clinic on 4/13 is still open. That second dose clinic will fall on May 11^th. Initially we had a very large list of folks to try and schedule however since we collected our list of names, several folks have already received their vaccines. The clinic is from 1-330 on Tuesday, April, 13^th at the Nederland Community Center and we are to prioritize adults aged 60 and up per state guidance. If you know anyone 60 and up that is interested, please have them call me directly at 720-616-9109. Thanks so much for your help and sorry for the late notice. This came up quickly for all of us!

Colleen

BCH also introduced a new approach for scheduling vaccinations this week. People using the MyBCH patient portal can now self-schedule their appointments.

• Individuals who are already eligible to be vaccinated can schedule appointments right away.
• People in the Phase 2 group can start scheduling appointments this Friday at 5 p.m.

Dennis Whalen, ChairPeak to Peak Housing and Human Services Alliancep2phhs.orgPronouns: He/Him/His303-862-1501

——– Forwarded Message ——–

To: Armstrong, Katherine -FS <katherine.armstrong@nullusda.gov>
Subject: [BCFCA] Get wildfire ready by creating defensible space around your home; Application period opens April 1 for Boulder Ranger District

U.S. Forest Service

Roosevelt National Forest

Boulder Ranger District

Boulder, Colo.

Find this news online: https://www.fs.usda.gov/detail/arp/news-events/?cid=FSEPRD897959

Get wildfire ready by creating defensible space around your home
Application period opens April 1 for Boulder Ranger District

BOULDER, Colo. – Landowners across Boulder and Gilpin counties are preparing their properties to be more resilient to wildfire by creating areas of defensible around their homes. To support this effort, the U.S. Forest Service’s Boulder Ranger District has completed two environmental analyses (Boulder Defensible Space Project and Forsythe II Project) that allow private landowners in Boulder and northern Gilpin counties to reduce hazardous fuels on National Forest lands around their homes.

This opportunity will complement the mitigation work already being completed by private property owners in cooperation with the Colorado State Forest Service and county wildfire preparedness programs to create areas of defensible space around primary structures on private lands.

Each year, applications will be accepted April 1 through April 30. Upon receipt of the application, resource specialists will evaluate design criteria for your specific location. Defensible space permits will be issued by the Boulder Ranger District before July 1, and work may begin after receipt of the permit.

The Boulder Ranger District will provide homeowners permits based on the mitigation area and the volume of trees to be cut (either a free-use permit or personal use paid permit). On National Forest land, hazardous fuels shall only be cut by hand with manual equipment (e.g. chainsaws, handsaws, loppers). Landowners will be responsible for removing the debris created from the defensible space treatments from National Forest land to their private land for disposal utilizing non-mechanized equipment (e.g. carts, wheel barrels, etc.); off-road vehicles and other motorized equipment shall not be used. Cut material shall not be left on National Forest property.

For more information about this project and to learn how to apply, go to Boulder Ranger District Defensible Space Permits.

This electronic message contains information generated by the USDA solely for the intended recipients. Any unauthorized interception of this message or the use or disclosure of the information it contains may violate the law and subject the violator to civil or criminal penalties. If you believe you have received this message in error, please notify the sender and delete the email immediately.

We invite you to join us for a collective moment of silence to honor the lives lost during the recent mass shooting in Boulder. 

Here’s the link to the information    

  https://bouldercolorado.gov/boulderstrong

Please join us at 8 p.m. on Saturday, March 27, 2021 as we come together as a community. We want to create an opportunity to safely mourn in this difficult time. Together, we will honor those lost and hold space for the loved ones they leave behind.   

• When : Starting Saturday, March 27 at 8 p.m. for 10 days.  
• What : On the first night, step outside and take 10 slow breaths, followed by 10 minutes of silence. Each breath and each minute is to honor the lives lost in the tragic Boulder shooting. We invite you to continue this practice as you are able and to put a light or electric candle in your window each night through April 5, 2021.  
• Who : Everyone. The impact of this tragedy stretches across our community and nation. If you love Boulder or just want to support us in this difficult time, we invite you to join in this collective moment. 

From: Boulder County Information <bouldercounty@nullpublic.govdelivery.com>
Sent: Tuesday, March 23, 2021 4:27 PM
Subject: Boulder County Mental Health resources and Victim Support funds available to community members

(Boulder County, Colo. — March 23, 2021) — Boulder County recognizes that many of our community members may be personally connected to the people who were victims in yesterday’s Boulder shooting.   

The horrific attack on our neighbors, fallen BPD peace officer Eric Talley, and fellow community members is difficult for all of us. Feelings of stress, depression, or exhaustion are normal during times of crisis or trauma. Collective trauma for community members is difficult to cope with after a tragedy and may impact residents in different ways.

There are resources available in our community to help. Please utilize and share these resources with family and friends who might need some assistance during this difficult time: 

• Mental Health Partners: Clinicians are operating remotely at this time and offering mental health services to community members. Call (303) 443-8500 to schedule and appointment of visit the Walk-In clinic: 3180 Airport Road, Boulder 
• Colorado Crisis Services: Confidential crisis support, information and referrals are available 24/7. Call: 1-844-493-TALK (8255).
• Disaster Distress Helpline: Call 1-800-985-5990 or text TalkWithUs to 66746. The Disaster Distress Helpline (DDH) provides crisis counseling and support for anyone in the U.S. experiencing distress or other behavioral health concerns related to any natural or human-caused disaster, including public health emergencies. 
• Community Health Workers: Community Health Workers is a virtual team of Mental Health Partner’s providers who are available on Facebook to connect to the community. Community Health Workers are available to share resources, connect people to resources, and share helpful tips. The team’s expertise includes housing, veteran affairs, and Latinx communities. Connect to Community Health workers on Facebook or through the Mental Health Partners website.
• National Helpline:Treatment referrals and information is available 24/7 at 1-800-662-HELP. 
• Suicide Prevention: The Suicide Prevention Hotline has people available to provide free and confidential support 24 hours a day at 1-800-273-8355. See their website for additional supports. 
• National Suicide Prevention Lifeline: The Lifeline provides 24/7, free and confidential support for people in distress, prevention and crisis resources for you or your loved ones, and best practices for professionals at 1-800-273-8255.
• Colorado Suicide Prevention: Need help now? Call 1-844-493-TALK (8255), text TALK to 38255, or access chat via coloradocrisisservices.org. Help and hope are available 24/7.

From Dina Elder, dina.elder@nullgmail.com

The Mt. Stewards are hosting this zoom event that ties into Gold Hill’s big fire mitigation efforts this summer.

Water on the Edge: Practical Strategies from Garden to Forest

Tuesday, March 30, 2021 from 11:30 a.m. to 12:45 p.m.

In the face of climate change, the dilemma of drought, the challenges of wildfire mitigation – what can we do? Join local experts to learn the why and how of storing/harvesting/slowing water in our Ponderosa/Doug Fir/Lodgepole zones to improve plant and animal diversity and reduce the impact of wildfires.

What can you do on your property? What can be done in our surrounding forests? This is an opportunity to listen, ask questions, and recognize opportunities for taking practical steps around our homes, on our land, and in local forests. 

This event is FREE, but please register at Water on the Edge Free Registration to receive the Zoom link or call-in numbers.  After the presentations and Q&A ending at 12:45 p.m. the gathering will remain open for 30 minutes for networking.

AGENDA

Watersheds: Why Healthy Headwaters Matter

Maya MacHamer – Boulder Watershed Collective

Maya is the Co-Founder and Director of the Boulder Watershed Collective. Born and raised in this area, Maya started her Emergency Services career with the Four Mile and Gold Hill fire departments. After receiving a master’s degree in Public Administration and Emergency Management, she worked in flood recovery before establishing the Fourmile Watershed Coalition in 2015 to create resiliency and build community connections for Fourmile Canyon. She carries this expertise, along with her genuine desire to collaborate, into her role with the Boulder Watershed Collective. She is currently actively working to leverage Federal, State, and Local Agency initiatives and funding to support forest restoration and environmental enhancement that holistically support water and forest health and community resilience. https://www.boulderwatershedcollective.com/

Earthworks: The Push and Pull of Regenerative Landscapes

Avery Ellis – UNITED ECOLOGY   united we grow.

Avery Ellis, is a sustainability specialist and ecological designer. He focuses on designing sustainable ecosystems that serve humanity through natural processes. He has a master’s degree in Ecological Design through SFIA and a BS in Biology & Sustainability through Stockton College. He is also a Certified Permaculture Designer and Teacher. Drawing on his experience with permaculture, aquaponics, greywater and water harvesting systems, and food production, Avery founded UNITED ECOLOGY to create integrated long-term ecological solutions for urban, suburban, rural, and wild landscapes that care for the earth, the people, and share abundance with nature. https://unitedecology.org/

Pollinators: What, Why, How?

Joyce Kennedy – People and Pollinators Action Network (PPAN)

Joyce is the chief coordinator of PPAN. In this multi-faceted role, she directs organizational development and project implementation. She leads the organization’s advocacy work, builds constituency and develops community outreach programs. She has worked as an environmental professional for 20 years for consulting firms, nonprofits and the National Park Service. Prior to her work as a pollinator advocate, she did rivers work in New England for 12 years.https://peopleandpollinators.org/ https://peopleandpollinators.org/longmont-coalition-for-people-pollinators/

Presentations will be recorded and available for later viewing. Contact Virginia Schultz at arneyschultz@nullhotmail.com with any questions or for more information. We look forward to working together toward more resilient mountain communities. Sponsored by: Gold Hill Mountain Stewards.

GOLD HILL TOWN MEETING NEWSLETTER

Minutes of the February 8, 2021 Town Meeting by Zoom

Next Town Meeting will be Monday April 12, 2021,  7:00 P.M. by Zoom

The meeting was called to order by Chair Emma Dirolf.  Forty-one people signed in: Chair Emma Dirolf, Rick Sheingold, Maggie Simms, David Brigham, Norm Skarstad, Peter Swift, Lacey Story, Brieda and Rick Geesaman, Dana Dallavalle, Shivaun Hoyle, Greg Buis, Kris Gibson, Treasurer Martha Knapp, Rick Sinner, Leslie and Chris Finn, Dina Elder, Virginia Schultz, Heidi Kessler and Richard Roth, Bear Carlson and Poppy Copeland, Chrissy and Member at Large Dan Maedke, Matt Connery + 2 kids, Mireille Brown, Emily Rose, Boyd Brown and Johanna Gangemi, Marcus Moench and Elisabeth Caspari, Michael Wollard, Vice Chair Marielle Sidell, Secretary Gretchen Diefenderfer, Debra Yeager, Val Crist, Sarah O’Brien and Sam Bennett, Joanne Cole, and Maya MacHamer.

Minutes – Martha had emailed me that the information around the Town Relief Funds was confusing, because there are two different funds.  I added the following to the last December minutes and sent out a town email

We in fact have two Relief Funds. If any town member finds herself/himself in a financially challenged place, you are encouraged to apply for help from these funds.   Our original Community Relief Fund came about after the 2010 Fourmile Fire to help people affected by the fire.  As time went on, the Town Meeting decided to make funds available for other financial difficulties or emergencies.  The Town Council administers this, all information is confidential, and we still have $2375.20 available in this fund.  Contact Emma Dirolf (emmadirolf@nullgmail.com or 513-259-1532), Marielle Sidell (marielle.sidell@nullgmail.com or 303-819-2029), Martha Knapp (elev8296@nullearthlink.net or 303-442-5254, Dan Maedke (maedkedan@nullgmail.com or 303-808-7082), or Gretchen Diefenderfer (gretchend@nullmac.com or 303-442-3847). Here is the form

Gold Hill Town Meeting Community Relief Fund Application *Revised 12/14

Please use back of form or additional sheets as needed.

 Mail completed form to:

Gold Hill Town Meeting, Inc.

Attn: CRF

1011 Main Street – Gold Hill

Boulder CO 80302

Criteria: (1) Applicants must be a resident of Gold Hill Town Meeting, Inc., including Rim and Shining Star Roads (2) Application signed and dated and (3) meet criteria A or B below:

1. Disaster, such as flood, fire, etc. Maximum $1000 per event, per household – committee approval needed
2. Family emergency such as lost job, hospitalization, car accident, etc. Maximum $250 per household annually– committee approval needed

Name__________________________________________________________________________

Home Address___________________________________________________________________________________________

Mailing Address if different: ____________________________________________________________________________

Phone/Contact Information: ___________________________________________________________________________

Please explain your circumstances and what assistance is requested.  Specifically itemize/estimate amount to be used to replace losses (such as income, house repair, clothing, food)  __________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________

Please list other organizations from which you have received/or plan to receive financial help:

__________________________________________________________________________________________________________

Signature ________________________________________________________________Date___________________________

Our second fund is the Pandemic Relief Fund and money was granted to us from the Community Foundation in 2020.  This fund is administered by Marielle Sidell (marielle.sidell@nullgmail.com or 303-819-2029), Emma Dirolf (emmadirolf@nullgmail.com or 513-259-1532), Deb Yeager (deb@nullmountainvisions.net or 303-44900454), and Marcus Moench (marcus.moench@nullgmail.com or 303-667-8327), is also totally confidential, and has $1057.26 remaining.    

Here is this form:

Gold Hill Town Meeting Community (GHTM) Pandemic Relief Fund Application *Revised 6/26/2020
Please use back of form or additional sheets as needed.

Deliver completed form to:

Gold Hill Town Meeting, Inc. Attn: PRF
1011 Main Street – Gold Hill Boulder CO 80302

Or send via email to the GHTM Chair: marielle.sidell@nullgmail.com

Criteria: (1) Applicants must be a resident of the GHTM or a local group that primarily serves GHTM residents; (2) Application signed and dated; and (3) meet criteria outlined in the GHTM Relief Fund Strategy (available on the town website). All awards and amounts are subject to approval by the Relief Fund Subcommittee.

Name_____________________________________________________________________________________________

Address___________________________________________________________________________________________

Mailing Address if different:________________________________________________________________________

Phone/Contact Information: ___________________________________________________________________________

Please explain the circumstances and what assistance is requested. Specifically itemize/estimate amount to be used to address needs (such as income, house repair, clothing, food) ___________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________ __________________________________________

Please list other organizations from which you have received/or plan to receive financial help:

__________________________________________________________________________________________________________ Signature ________________________________________________________________Date_________________________

Treasurer’s Report – Martha submitted the following report:

At the previous regular Town Meeting in December 2020 our bank balance was $17,297.10

Our current total cash assets are $17,031.32

Revenue Summary: Cemetery Fund donations $100.

Expense Summary: $50 from the General Fund for porta-potty cleaning; $158.40 food bank expenses and $157.38 for Zoom account subscription from the COVID-19 Response Fund.

Fund transfers: none.

 Current fund totals:

General Fund $3626.86; Cemetery $3,205.21; Safe Link (combined funds for SafeSite, AirLink, NeighborLink projects) $2,466.79; Community Planning/Fundraising $300; Forest Management $0 (zero); Community Relief $2,375.20; COVID-19 Response $1,057.26; Water Harvesting/Ag Education Grant $4,000.

Anticipated general fund expenses for 2021: $874 for taxes, insurance, report filings, bank fees, office supplies, porta-potty maintenance.

COMMITTEE REPORTS

Mountain Stewards – Chrissy reminded everyone about the Bee Safe Neighborhood.  Register online at https://www.thepeoplesbees.com/pledge

Virginia reported that Cat Russell (wildcat.russell@nullgmail.com) is looking at bulk purchasing for solar panels and storage batteries.  She is working with Energy Smart
(www.energysmartyes.com/energy/advising) and also looking for a location for an EV charging station.  Email her if you have questions.

They are also looking at water testing options particularly to look at firefighting chemicals.  Save the date, March 8, 6 pm-7 pm for a webinar about rain water, rain barrels and all water issues. Sarah is working on a website page for Green Gold Hill and starting a Green Gold Hill Newsletter.  They will be launching a rain barrel project – teach, make, and set up.  Home energy evaluations information will be in the welcome buckets and on the website.  Marcus added that the county will be getting back to them about potential grant opportunities.

Forestry and Forest Management– Maya MacHamer (fourmilewatershed@nullgmail.com)

updated us on the mitigation project planned for the north side of Gold Hill to begin in April or May.  They have had a great meeting with the Conservation District and NRCS (the Federal partner) collaborating on the forest management plan looking at the best treatment design, taking into account the information on the best types of trees, etc., wildfire suppression, forest ecology, access, thinning, etc.  Once the details are worked out, they play to start with the Ashley property and the Wollard property.  They’ll mark trees and the Fourmile Mitigation Crew will start in June.  Sarah will be putting out a survey about who might be interested in firewood or chips, etc., and then they can make plans to get people what they need.  Maya only has a draft map at this point.  The large scope of the project means it will probably take multiple years to complete.  They plan on cutting in 2021 and ‘22 on the north side, ‘22 and ‘23 burning piles, etc.  The grant funding expires in 2023.  They have been spending a lot of time acquiring funds, getting permissions, and so on and now it’s good to be getting to detailed plans about how the forest will actually look.  The Coalition is now the Boulder Watershed Collective and stretches from Gold Hill to Coal Creek Canyon.  They are working to incorporate the odd encroaching mining claims as well.  The funding is for treating 101 acres and principally includes the Ashley and Wollard properties  and Truth Consciousness.  They want to treat the properties that will provide the best wildfire mitigation.  The more accessible portion near the top will be worked by the Fourmile Mitigation Crew (4-8 people) in 2021, with ATVs and smaller equipment (no large-scale forestry equipment).    In 2022, they will probably hire a larger crew/contractor with larger equipment to handle the steeper denser areas.  They would be able to remove more wood and decrease the cost per acre.  This will be bid out and if you know any local contractors who can do this, please let her know.

           Kris asked about access and the plan is to use Ashley’s driveway and then some little roads that allow access to areas beyond the house.  There are some wider trails near Mike Wollard’s and the Ashram has a winding network of roads they created.  Val asked about how far North they plan to go and it depends on access  – some is too steep and some not accessible.  Will have to think of how best to protect the town given the access challenges.  Some answers depend on the foresters’ recommendations – plans still in process for neighboring landowners, also USFS land further west – they are open to conversations about potential areas.  The Fire Board brought up a fuel break along Lickskillet.  The upper part is BLM land and the lower part is county property.  The conversation is in progress with Stefan Reinhold with the County and BLM is considering the NEPA process to look at it

           Marcus added that a number of north side Pine Street property owners are interested in what they can do from a wildfire safety perspective as well as other private property owners in town.  Wildfire Partners?  Maya  suggested that interested people should let her know.  They want to work with people on what they can do for their properties with wildfire protection for the town as the goal.

Gold Hill School – Chrissy reports that they’re trucking along.  They’re in class Tuesday through Friday and it’s going all right.  Most attend in person and some online.  They have a 6.5 hours school day, which will be  going to 7 hours next year.  They don’t have the exact schedule yet.

Museum – Deb reports that the museum is on hold for the winter, but they are planning exhibits.  Everything is in good shape since lots of preparation took place last year and then they couldn’t open.  They’re not sure about this summer yet, but hope to be open.  She does keep getting contacted by people who find artifacts they want to donate.

Fundraising and Community Planning – Dan reports that he’s waiting to see how it all develops at this point.

Gold Hill Calendar – Gretchen reports that there is a calendar meeting next week and will begin working on the calendar for 2022!  Ideas or contributions?  Contact Gretchen, Marie Brookhart, or Marilyn Soby.

Cemetery – Maggie expressed thanks to Emma for heading up this crazy town.  She reported that there have been a number of plot purchases in the last 6 months – people are maybe looking at their mortality?  They had one full casket burial this month.   Once we can get together for the town clean up, there is clean up to do at the cemetery.  Last year they built a new shed and plan to gutter it to collect rain water – they have taken a rain barrel down there.

Community Center – Emma put out a call for volunteers who will participate on the Gold Hill Community Center Committee.  The Gold Hill Town Meeting Board is interested in community members who would be willing to participate in an evaluation of community center functions and roles, potential site locations, and links with other community needs. Ideally this would have representation from the Gold Hill Town Meeting Board, Friends of Gold Hill Community Center, Fire Department, and other Gold Hill institutions. The ideas that have emerged and the potential opportunity to gain a key asset are very exciting, but we do need to evaluate what is attainable in real detail. This group, made up of 7 community members will support a visioning process along with the practical steps required to make decisions. Please contact Mari at marielle.sidell@nullgmail.com if you would like to participate!

We want a broad, representative group to look at all sides and options, and it is definitely open to everyone in the community.

Greg stated that he doesn’t understand exactly what the committee is about.  Emma replied that we want to generate a collection of opinions, evaluate inquiries and ideas about sites, funding, and so on.  Val added that we want to gather information and get more feedback and explore all options.  Marcus added that initially when the 900 Pine Street option emerged, questions went out in the town email.  The question of a community center had been floating around for some time and the intent was to put 900 Pine on the table for consideration.  All options are possible for a community center/gathering place (or not) and if the 900 Pine building doesn’t fit our needs and goes to a family instead, that will be a happy outcome.

Emma had a note from the GH Fire Protection District that their present focus is on wildfire mitigation and, although there has been discussion of the need for a bigger firebarn to house our equipment, no decisions have been made on that.

Additional questions on the  community center ?  Get in touch with Mari (marielle.sidell@nullgmail.com).

NeighborLink – Deb reported that we are working to make NeighborLink more streamlined, swift and user friendly.  We’re working with Sarah on putting out a survey to gather information about whether people want to participate, collecting their information, how they receive town information presently and their preference for receiving emergency information – text, email, landline, cell phone?  We’re working on finalizing our groups and lists and will house it all in Gold Hill Google Drive accessible to NeighborLink and Emma.   NeighborLink is basically a phone tree to notify people of emergency information and we are asking people to form their own neighbor groups to share additional information with.  We are living with year-round fire danger. 

Food Pantry – Deb reports that the food pantry continues to roll along.  They’re excited to see people attending. Presently it’s held in front of the Bluebird Lodge on Mondays from 3 to 4.  If you have questions, contact Deb or any of the amazing group of volunteers.  Mari brought up that she saw a donation being given and Deb replied that some people just wanted to contribute and they put any donations into supplies, bags, etc., and travel expenses for the drivers. 

CSA Update – They are now going through Aspen Moon – contact LizWiig@nullgmail.com

Emergency Preparation and Communication – Sarah and her group have been working on emergency preparation and communication issues since the evacuation last year when we seriously realized the need to look at the best ways to communicate with each other and to help gather the information regarding everyone’s primary sources for receiving town news and emergency information, as well as their preferred methods.  To access the survey, go to   https://docs.google.com/forms/d/e/1FAIpQLSdYdP4hvsQ8OY-elTY2IunHynaBUv8a5pVniAxGniCkV0Ngbw/viewform  There are also forms to fill out at the Gold Hill Store.  They want to streamline our efforts so that communications go out as quickly as possible during an actual emergency.  There is also information on how to sign up at the Office of Emergency Management for Everbridge (the County reverse 9-1-1 system) and emergency updates – boulderoem.com   They’re looking at all ways to streamline communications with emergency responders – Of course call 9-1-1 to report any emergency.  They will be putting together laminated check-off sheets for people to put on their doors to notify emergency responders if they have evacuated and are updating our website .

AirLink – no report, but Deb added that AirLink is an element of SafeLink along with NeighborLink and NL wants to know where all the Ham Radio people are so we can connect them with NL groups.

Weed Management – Pam is looking at a community day, maybe in April, to work on the invasive spurge.

Historical Zoning – no report

Fire Department – Leslie reported that they are trying to get back to in person trainings.  Online train is challenging, but they’re doing their best, sometimes coordinating with Sunshine and Fourmile and some on our own focused on Gold Hill.

OTHER TOWN NEWS

Mental Health Vouchers – Kelly Viet and Mike live on Main Street and Kelly is our contact person for Mental Health Vouchers from the Boulder Community Foundation.  She is a great resource – reach out to her at veit.kelly@nullgmail.com  or 847-903-3396.

Speed Study – The County wants to know if we want to participate in another speed study.  The last speed study in Gold Hill found that 85% of drivers were within the speed limit, but Peter Swift pointed out that the rubber hoses and huge yellow signs they used alerted traffic and everyone slowed down, so the 85% number is not realistic.  He estimates that 10-15% of traffic speeds excessively, seemingly late in the evenings perhaps hurrying home, plus tourists.  Peter volunteered to work with the county about solutions/suggestions for traffic calming ideas. There were several proposals to slow traffic that came out of the last study, but were not implemented. He would prefer electronic monitoring that would not alert drivers.  Chrissy wondered what we will be able to do to slow traffic knowing that we are not allowed speed bumps (on county roads).    They are willing to come to the GHTM and talk about mitigation ideas.  Everyone agreed that we would like to participate with the County on the speed study, and several people would like speed monitored is additional locations besides Main Street.

Respectfully submitted, Gretchen Diefenderfer

P.S. If you are having this Newsletter mailed to you, but could have it emailed, please let me know as it will save time and money.  Also, if you know of anyone who should be receiving this, but is not, let me know that as well. 

Please get the word out that today’s (Monday 3/22) pantry in ON!

Thanks,
Rick Sheingold rsheingold@nullgmail.com

One St. Vrain unit complete; more slash pile burning planned

BOULDER, Co (March 16) – Fire managers took advantage of the incoming weather on Friday to burn total of 1,360 piles last week between James Creek RFB 6 and St Vrain 11B. They completed burning all slash piles in the St. Vrain 11B unit. They are planning to take advantage of conditions to burn slash piles over the coming week in the following locations:

• James Creek RFB Units 6, 8: 5,000 piles remaining General location: Half mile south of Jamestown or quarter mile East of Bar K Ranch
• James Creek Unit M1701: 8,000piles General Location: East of Hwy 72, near Peaceful Valley.
• St Vrain Units 15a, 15b: 6,000 piles General Location: 5 miles west of Lyons, North side of Ralph Price Reservoir (Button Rock) 
• Forsythe II Units 99: 150 hand piles General Location: 1 mile southeast of Nederland, south side of Big Springs Subdivision
• Forsythe II Units 50, 51: 2,500 hand piles General Location: 1.5 mile northeast of Wondervu, south side of Gross Reservoir 
• Forsythe II Units 39, 40, 42, 45, 75, 76: 1,750 piles General Location: 1.5 mile northwest of Wondervu, west side of Gross Reservoir

About Pile Burning

Wind helps disperse smoke created during pile burning operations and snow helps keep the piles contained. Seeing flames and smoke, even after dark, is part of normal operations. This reduces fuels on the landscape under the safest conditions. Conditions are evaluated each day to determine if ignition will take place. Ignitions are generally expected to begin after 10 a.m. and will cease several hours before sunset. Smoke may be visible. Precipitation, wind, temperature, fuel moisture, and staffing all play a part in when and whether ignition occurs. Firefighters monitor the area after burning is complete. Public and firefighter safety is always the number-one priority in burning operations. For a complete list of locations where pile burning will occur this season, as well as updated accomplishments and photos, visit our InciWeb page at https://inciweb.nwcg.gov/incident/4648.

Contact List Information

If you know someone who would like to receive updates on Forest Service activities, have them send an e-mail to Katherine.armstrong@nullusda.gov and ask to be added to the Boulder Ranger District Prescribed Fire list. To unsubscribe, please reply with UNSUBSCRIBE in the subject line.

This electronic message contains information generated by the USDA solely for the intended recipients. Any unauthorized interception of this message or the use or disclosure of the information it contains may violate the law and subject the violator to civil or criminal penalties. If you believe you have received this message in error, please notify the sender and delete the email immediately.

GOLD HILL FIRE PROTECTION DISTRICT
BOARD OF DIRECTORS AGENDA
MARCH 16, 2021 7:00 PM
Join Zoom Meeting
https://us02web.zoom.us/j/88952891520?pwd=dkovb0hZR0tYVVcwd1lIRlZ5UDJtQT09

CALL TO ORDER
ATTENDANCE
APPROVAL OF MINUTES

FIRE CHIEF’S MINUTES
CALLS:
Type of call
Initial response
Number of volunteers who arrived.
Who took command and transfer (if any)?
Equipment used.
Other Departments who arrived.
Lessons learned.
TRAINING:
Training team members
Past training
Upcoming training
MAINTENANCE:
Vehicles
Equipment
EQUIPMENT:
Inventory
Condition

OTHER BUSINESS

Forest Restoration Projects:
● Update on project timeline Maya MacHamer
● Possible webinar/zoom call on large scale forest projects.

Grants:
● Kris Gibson, Update and confirmation of SAM.gov and next steps.
● Marcus Moench, Urban Sustainability Directors Network, Partners in Places program https://www.fundersnetwork.org/partners-for-places/

Wi-Fi for Fire Barn:
● Installation and operations. Jessica, Chief Finn.

Arc Gis:
● Arc GIS, structure protection pending meeting with Fourmile project team. Dirolf,
● Grant applications for IPads update.

Drone use
• Thomas Woodson, Joey Schusler Marcus Moench

Campers west of town:
• Campers and campfires will return.

Discussion on Pension Fund

• What are qualifying hours and activities.:

From Maggie Simms,
David and I are planning to produce the Melodrama that he wrote 5 years ago, and we performed for the Gold Hill inn’s 50th anniversary.
We want it to be a fundraiser for the town of Gold Hill, and we want (as was done last time,) to cast all Gold Hill area actors.
Performance will be sometime in June.

Looking for actors for A Gold Hill Melodrama: To Be Ore Not To Be:

Constance Goodman (Constantly good, John’s wife)

John Goodman (Constantly good, Constance’s husband)

Guy LeTaupe (Hero)

Lilly Goodman (Heroine)

Ebenezer Rockyfeller (Villain)

Bess Western (Villainess)

The Wind

In June, we hope to produce a Melodrama with actors from Gold Hill. We want to make this a fundraiser for the Town Council to be used as they see fit. Brian has already given his ok for use of his stage in the Beer garden. We may try to produce it elsewhere, depending on demand.

Rehearsals will be held through May and early June. Performance will be on or around June 19th, perhaps July 3rd.

You do not have to have experience as an actor. Everyone is welcome to audition.

Send a text to: 303 718 6368

Send email to: maggiesimms54@nullgmail.com

Or call us: 303.473.0811

NO FOOD PANTRY TOMORROW!

Because of the weather we will not be having our food pantry tomorrow. PLEASE NOTE: if you are in need of eggs; dry goods, i.e., rice, pasta, etc.; or canned goods, we have them available for you. Please contact Debra if you are in need of any of these items.
Deb Yeager deb@nullmountainvisions.net 303-449-0454

James and Kort are doing an open (free) Irish music concert on Saturday at 6:00-7:00 by Zoom. A good snowy day to listen.
The link is here:

Moors & McCumber’s Zoom Concert
Mar 13, 2021 6pm Mountain

Join Zoom Meeting
https://us02web.zoom.us/j/86101477196

Meeting ID: 861 0147 7196

Kickstarter Link:
http://kck.st/3dN3pQe

A Small, But Mighty Mitigation Action
Reflective Address Markers

Have you ever evacuated in the middle of a firestorm?

It can be a frightening, heart-pounding experience. Not only are you trying calm your nerves as you escape to safety, but you are trying to navigate roads in the pitch dark. You can barely see ten feet in front of your car.

During a wildfire, the blue skies will be blotted out by the thick black smoke, making it hard not only to see the road, but even houses located off the roads.
Read More
Short Term Rentals
Code Update Requires Wildfire Partners Assessment

Do you earn extra income by renting your second home for VRBO or Airbnb?

Do you know someone in the Boulder County foothills who does?

Boulder County has updated their licensing requirements for short term rentals and vacation rentals. A Wildfire Partners assessment is now required for those applying for a license for Short Term Rentals. A renewal of the license will require certification.

For questions about short term rentals, email strlicensing@nullbouldercounty.org.

To access the online application for a license or learn more, please visit the county’s web page on Short Term Rentals.
Sort Yard Re-opening Dates

Got slash?

The Boulder County Sort yards will be re-opening next month. Bring your slash and other organic debris. No stumps or construction materials accepted.

Nederland Sort Yard – Wednesday, April 28

Meeker Park (Allenspark) Sort Yard – Wednesday, May 12

Let’s Talk Mitigation!
Wednesday evening

You’ve got questions? We’ve got answers!

What will the drought mean for the upcoming wildfire season? Join us for a discussion on this and bring your other mitigation questions.

Grab a cup of hot cocoa, and join Wildfire Partners staff members, Abby Silver and Leslie Brodhead, to answer any mitigation questions you have.

Wednesday, March 10 at 7 p.m.

Join Zoom Meeting
https://us02web.zoom.us/j/81466075732?pwd=WDAyaTRyNU5LNTFFMGk5eVBlVjNvdz09

Meeting ID: 814 6607 5732
Passcode: 201467

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Wildfire Partners
P.O. Box 1813
Nederland, CO 80466
www.wildfirepartners.org
303-441-1420
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Wildfire Partners · PO Box 471 · Boulder · Colorado · 80306
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Indian Peaks Wilderness Permits available online starting March 16

BOULDER, Colo., (March 8, 2020) – Starting March 16, 2021, Indian Peaks Wilderness backcountry permits will be available for purchase at Recreation.gov. Through the new system, customers will be able to view permit availability, book a reservation, pay online, print permits, and manage reservations from one account.

Permits are required for all overnight camping in Indian Peaks Wilderness Area from June 1 to Sept. 15 and are always required for groups of 8-12 people.

The Recreation.gov site, which is currently visible to the public, will allow visitors to view permit availability ahead of time, making it easier for them to plan their itineraries. It will add convenience, providing the opportunity to purchase permits on weekends and evenings, even when the district offices are closed. Permits will no longer be issued by mail, phone or in person.

Anyone considering a visit to Indian Peaks Wilderness Area should first do extensive research. Most of the wilderness area is in the high alpine zone where snowpack lasts into July and severe weather conditions can be expected year-round. Many of the routes involve strenuous and technical hiking. Hikers and campers should be well equipped with the appropriate footwear, clothing and safety gear and should be experienced in backcountry camping techniques, including Leave No Trace principles. Food storage containers are strongly encouraged.

The Recreation.gov page includes important links to detailed information about Indian Peaks Wilderness Area, including camping regulations, trail descriptions and maps. Once on the website, search “Indian Peaks Wilderness” to book small groups (1-7 people) and large groups (8-12 people). Be sure to review the Indian Peaks Wilderness backcountry zone map, to determine what zones to book and read through all the available information about Wilderness regulations and trail descriptions.

To be prepared, those interested in booking a wilderness camping trip this summer should set up an account with Recreation.gov in advance. Starting at 8 a.m. March 16, reservations will be available for the entire season. A portion of permits (25 percent) will be made available on a rolling basis starting at 8 a.m. three days in advance. Permits cost $11 (The backcountry permit costs $5 per party per trip. Recreation.gov charges a $6 reservation fee per trip.)

Visitors will be able to make modifications to an existing permit if circumstances change. Once a permit has been printed, modifications will no longer be allowed. While modifications are free, no refunds are provided for cancelations or changing trip start dates.

Indian Peaks Wilderness Area is a popular destination for recreation opportunities in the Front Range. The area’s proximity to the Denver Metro area makes it one of the most visited Wilderness areas in the country. To preserve the area’s wilderness character, a permit system has been in place for overnight camping since 1985.

K. “Reid” Armstrong
Public Affairs Specialist
Forest Service
Arapaho and Roosevelt National Forests
Pawnee National Grassland
p: 303-541-2532
c: 970-222-7607
katherine.armstrong@nullusda.gov
2140 Yarmouth Ave
Boulder, CO 80301
www.fs.usda.gov/arp

Caring for the land and serving people

This electronic message contains information generated by the USDA solely for the intended recipients. Any unauthorized interception of this message or the use or disclosure of the information it contains may violate the law and subject the violator to civil or criminal penalties. If you believe you have received this message in error, please notify the sender and delete the email immediately.

Let’s Talk Mitigation!

You’ve got questions.

We’ve got answers!

Please join us for our virtual Let’s Talk Mitigation event! Wildfire Partners staff members, Abby Silver and Leslie Brodhead will be available to answer your questions and discuss wildfire mitigation.

This month we’ll be discussing what Colorado’s drought means for this coming wildfire season.

Date: Wednesday, March 10
Time: 7 – 8 p.m.

Join Zoom Meeting
https://us02web.zoom.us/j/81466075732?pwd=WDAyaTRyNU5LNTFFMGk5eVBlVjNvdz09

Meeting ID: 814 6607 5732
Passcode: 201467

You can email questions ahead of time to info@nullwildfirepartners.org.

Wildfire Partners
2045 13th Street
Boulder, CO 80302
www.wildfirepartners.org
303-441-1420

Wildfire Partners · PO Box 471 · Boulder · Colorado · 80306
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COMMUNITY RELIEF FUND 

 Our original Community Relief Fund came about after the 2010 Fourmile Fire to help people affected by the fire. As time went on, the Town Meeting decided to make funds available for other financial difficulties or emergencies. The Town Council administers this, all information is confidential, and we still have $2375.20 available in this fund. Contact any member of the Town Council at ghtownmeeting@nullgmail.com  Here is the form

The Pandemic Relief Fund  money was granted to us from the Community Foundation in 2020.   Remaining funds have now been rolled into the main Community relief fund

Passing this on from Pam Sherman pamsher123@nullgmail.com

If you were not able to attend or would like to rewatch either of the webinars, here are the links to the recorded webinars for the Post-Wildfire Restoration on Private Lands:

February 18 – Reseeding Following Wildfire https://youtu.be/Vl4QXie8PIg

February 25 – Trees & Forest Health: Considerations for Planting Seedling Trees After Wildfire https://youtu.be/gCNyKeZ9C1g

For a list of helpful wildfire resources, visit CSU Larimer County Extension — https://larimer.extension.colostate.edu/wildfire-resources/

All my best,
Karen
—-
Karen Crumbaker
Ag/Natural Resources
CSU Extension, Larimer County
1525 Blue Spruce Drive
Fort Collins, CO 80524
(970) 498-6003
Fax: (970) 498-6025

MARSEG is a friendly group of neighbors who meet on Google meet 6-7:30 pm every other Thursday to study anti-racist books and consider actions based on what we are learning.

Here’s the link: https://meet.google.com/coc-cypc-rjw See you Thursday! Cat

We are beginning a new book February 25! Caste: The Origins of Our Discontents by Isabel Wilkerson https://www.tatteredcover.com/book/9780593230251 This NEW book is getting lots of rave reviews and even our community’s most seasoned anti-racists will find something to learn here!

Please don’t hesitate to join us at any time — this is an OPEN group! If you have met with us in the past, please rejoin us. We miss you!

If you haven’t had a chance to read, come anyway and we will start with a brief synopsis.

In solidarity,

Cat
wildcat.russell@nullgmail.com