Events Calendar

GH Area Senior Alliance Mtg

 
GH area Senior Alliance Mtg.  First Tues., 10/7/2025 4:00-5:15 PM
 
When: First Tues., 10/7/2025 4:00-5:15 PM
 
Where:  Deepika Avanti’s, across the street from 698 Dixon
 
Agenda: Announcements, Kinesiology for Everyday, socializing after the Informational if desired
 
Presenter:  Deepika Avanti
 

GHTM agenda for 10-13-25

Hello Gold Hill- 
 
This is an announcement for our upcoming Gold Hill Town Meeting on 10/13 at 7PM. The meeting will be held in the Fire Barn, and virtual link is provided below.
 
Meeting Agenda-
  • Review proposed draft from revision to Bylaw Article 5, Section I- Authorities and Responsibilities of GH Town Council.
  • Committee Reports
Supportive materials for the meeting along with minutes from the Special Meeting on 9/24,  will be sent for attendee review later this week. 
 
Kelly Veit is inviting you to a scheduled Zoom meeting.
 
Topic: GHTM October 13, 2025
Time: Sep 29, 2025 07:00 PM Mountain Time (US and Canada)
Join Zoom Meeting
 
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Meeting ID: 813 1741 7080

Final community wood day

Final community wood day at the Ashram: Sunday 9/28 from 9AM to 1PM
Questions? Text or call Boyd at 720-438-9445

Special GHTM 9-24-25 Agenda

Special Gold Hill Town Meeting 

Wednesday, 7:00 p.m. September 24, 2025 

 In Person at the Community Center/Firebarn
&
Zoom Virtual Meeting 

Kelly Veit is inviting you to a scheduled Zoom meeting. https://us06web.zoom.us/j/81735212202?pwd=btFneQ2PdcfKgHXKlUBNXzvmaPiaKo.1 

Meeting ID: 817 3521 2202
Passcode: 500241

  1. Discuss Remaining Proposed By-Laws:

          Article II, Section C

  • Article 5 Section H
  • Article 5 Section I
  • Article 5 Section J
  • Article 6 Section D
  • Article 7 Section A
  • —-and any previously passed bylaws that anyone still has questions

Article II: Membership Proposed Addition

Section C, Authorities and Responsibilities of the Gold Hill Town Meeting Membership:

Members of the GHTM shall have the authority and responsibility to:

  • Vote to elect the Town Council annually;
  • Vote to remove a Town Council member before the end of their term;
  • Vote on the establishment and removal of support staff;
  • Vote on the formation and dissolution of committees;
  • Vote on the designation of standing committees;
  • Vote to amend a committees charter;
  • Vote on the major programs and activities the GHTM will focus on annually;
  • Vote to approve the annual budget;
  • Vote on resolution of issues that may arise in the community;
  • Vote on proposed establishment or amendments to policies and procedures;
  • Vote on proposed amendments to the bylaws; and
  • Vote on any proposed dissolution of the organization.
  • Provide input and consultation to the Town Council;

Article V: Town Council

Section H, Town Council Meetings:

A meeting of the Town Council may be called by any member of the Town Council by giving notice to all members of the Town Council at least two days prior to such meeting.  Town Council meetings are for discussion.  No decisions(s) reached at a Town Council Meeting are binding on the Gold Hill Town Meeting, Inc. or the Town Council, or any member of the Town Council.

Section H, Town Council Meetings: Proposed Changes

Town Council meetings shall be held bi-monthly, during the months between general membership meetings, on a date and time determined by the Town Council. The Council may cancel or reschedule a previously scheduled meeting if deemed necessary. An agen2da shall be provided in advance, and minutes shall be recorded for each meeting.

Special meetings of the Town Council may be called by any Council member, provided that notice of the meeting and its agenda is given to all other members at least two (2) days in advance.

A quorum shall consist of at least one-half of the then-serving Town Council members. Once a quorum is established, any action taken by a majority of members present shall constitute an official act of the Town Council.

The Town Council may also take official action via written or electronic communication, with or without convening an in-person meeting, either in lieu of or in addition to a scheduled meeting.

Town Council meetings will be open to GHTM members for observation but may be closed when confidential matters are under discussion, as determined by the Chair.

Article V: Town Council Proposed Addition

Section I, Authorities and Responsibilities of the GHTM Town Council:

The Town Council, with the approval of the GHTM, has the authority and responsibility to make administrative and business-related decisions essential to the ongoing management of the nonprofit. Organizational decisions shall be made by a quorum of Town Council members.

These authorities and responsibilities include, but are not limited to:

  • Representing the GHTM in interactions with county officials, donors, community partners, and other external organizations to advocate for the organization’s interests and needs;
  • Overseeing website maintenance, marketing efforts, and community communications;
  • Purchasing merchandise and organizing fundraising activities;
  • Authorizing and supporting GHTM committees;
  • Establishing and enforcing the organization’s policies and procedures;
  • Applying for grants and managing grant-related obligations;
  • Entering into contracts, leases, or agreements necessary to advance the organization’s mission;
  • Acquiring, managing, improving, encumbering, or disposing of real or personal property;
  • Managing the organization’s financial resources and overseeing financial transactions;
  • Securing insurance and indemnifying officers and employees,  for liabilities arising from their work on behalf of the organization; and
  • Taking any other lawful action in the best interest of the organization. 

Article V: Town Council  Proposed Addition

Section J, Town Council Support Staff

The GHTM may establish paid or volunteer positions to assist in fulfilling its responsibilities. Examples of such roles include, but are not limited to: volunteer coordinator, fundraising coordinator, mitigation coordinator, project manager, youth leader, or any other position deemed appropriate by the Town Council.

All such individuals shall serve at will under the authority of the Town Council and may be removed at the GHTM’s discretion at any time.

Article VI: Committees

Section D, Review, Amendment, and Dissolution: Proposed Changes

The GHTM shall periodically review the charters of all committees and amend or dissolve them as needed. 

Section D, Dissolution:

At a member’s meeting of the Gold Hill Town Meeting, Inc., when a quorum is present, the Chair, with the approval of the members at the meeting, may dissolve a committee.

Article VII: Financials

Section A, Contracts:

The Town Council, with the approval of the members at a duly called members meeting, may authorize any council member(s) or agent(s) of the Corporation to enter into any contract or execute and deliver any instrument in the name of or on behalf of the Corporation.  Such authority may be general or confined to specific instances.

Section A, Loans: Proposed Changes

No loans shall be made or accepted on behalf of the GHTM, nor shall any evidence of indebtedness be issued in its name, except as authorized by a resolution of the GHTM. 

2. Articles of Incorporation: Relevant Section, Article III  

The purpose or purposes for which the corporate is organized are: To hold town meetings and provide a forum for community discussion and basis for community action, and to establish qualifications for participation therein,  To acquire, hold, sell or lease real property for the general purpose of preserving the historical and natural setting of Gold Hill and surrounding area.  To act as trustee.  To coordinate with the County Planning Department, County Health Department and other departments of the County, State or Federal Government.  To take any and all other action to improve, preserve and benefit the Community of Gold Hill and surrounding area.  To apply for and receive government grants or assistance, to solicit funds and donations and undertake or sponsor community fund raising projects.  To do all other acts necessary or appropriate to promote the social welfare of the Community of Gold Hill

GHTM 9-8-25 minutes

GOLD HILL TOWN MEETING NEWSLETTER

Minutes of the September 8, 2025  Zoom and in person Special  Town Meeting

Next Special Town Meeting is Wednesday, September 24, 7:00 p.m., in person at the Firebarn and by Zoom

Next Regular Meeting will be Monday, October 13th in person at the Firebarn, and by Zoom

The meeting was called to order by Chair Kelly Veit.  Present were Kelly, Rick Sheingold, Janos Wilder, Boyd Brown, Elisabeth Caspari, Marcus Moench, Bear Carlson, Treasurer Martha Knapp, Vice Chair Kaitlyn Barthnell, Member at Large John Hatelid, and Secretary Gretchen Diefenderfer.  Val Crist attended by Zoom.

Kelly handed out this updated agenda:

Quick Update – New Funding Opportunity

Bylaw Revisions –

           Taking a Step Back – How we Got Here and What are our shared values for continuing?

           Review of Bylaws

  1. (Cont. from August) Article 3 – Members Meetings & Article 5-Town Council 
  2. (Expressed Concerns on approved Bylaws) Article 2, Section A and Article 3, Section A
  3. (Time permitting, Not yet approved) Article 2 – Membership, Article 5, Sections H and J – Town Council, Article 6 – Committees, Article 7 – Financials

Quick Recap – How We Got Here

  1. Bylaws were elevated as needing more clarity in order to remain up to current times, compliance, etc.
  2. Mountain Stewards expressed a desire for strong bylaws for grant purposes (more accountability structures, ability to move in timely manner
  3. Work with non-profit lawyer (thank you, Chrissy) to understand best practices in bylaws
  4. Review of Bylaws in Town Meeting for 1,000,000 years (</:o ) – from Spring/Summer 2024 to today

Is there a way to reframe the bylaws conversation to honor the values of the GHTM Members?

How can we see ourselves best reflected in the bylaw efforts?

Stepping Back to the “why” – Shared Values

I’m curious – Can we find consensus on a shared reason, philosophy, value or principle that brings meaning and purpose to the bylaws?

For Example – 

  1. We agree that having clearer language in our Bylaws is important for our community to move quickly on grant oped as well as the ones still under consideration
What do you see as the value or opportunity in updating the bylaws?  Can we agree to move them ahead, in service of these values?    Kelly Veit

Followed by the bylaws – the one that have been changed as well as the ones still under consideration

And the meeting began.  It was brought up that at issue is whether we want to continue as an Open Town Meeting (most purely democratic and our original form) or a more Representative Town Meeting (TM).  Marcus sees this grant issue as threading the needle on the question and added that, ideally, we’d get a larger group in order to be more representative .  When he was Chair, he wanted it to be more representative, but still felt that the town needed to vote on issues like “do we want to pursue wildfire mitigation?”  Currently, we have a grant opportunity which is due September 14, which is brought forward by informal group alliances like Mountain Stewards.  If the town says at the beginning that these are our goals and we want the Chair to be authorized to represent us with the County, without giving the Chair full license to act, but having established a priority area on this issue for the Chair, that’s one way.  We’d still have a fiscal sponsor to manage the $ as we did with the Boulder Watershed Collective (BWSC) on the last grant for the mitigation work.

Elisabeth added that Martha and Gretchen seem to have a clear idea of what the TM has been.  Gretchen said that we could have a committee (a mitigation committee, or a grants committee?) or we could vote to have the TC empowered to pursue and follow through on a given issue, but traditionally, most do not want the TC to be empowered to pursue whatever and then just let the town know what’s happening later.  

Marcus reports that this latest grants are for either $50,000 or $1,000,000 and would include funding and support for low income people and seniors, with mitigation and home hardening, battery back up especially for emergency communication, and other safety issues.

The consensus seems to be that we need to agree on some value statements and principles to make this grant process work smoothly and to give some designated people the power to move on them.  People dealing in the grant world need to have the info about support regarding what the grant is going to do and involve and require of us.  We’d need to write a letter of support and hold meetings and someone designated to say the TM supports and will follow through.  Dan said that our present structure is unclear about who is allowed to do what – the bylaws were not clear.  We have amended the last bylaws and we could stop there – they’re fine the way they are now – we don’t have to do the goals tonight.  Bear added that this grant opportunity seems like a wonderful opportunity.  Rick Sheingold asked who currently have been the group or committee who handled this big project.  Marcus said it’s the Strategic Fuels Mitigation Grant and has been managed by the BWSC and the Boulder Valley Conservation District.  Mountain Stewards has been our local group – an informal group of people formed independently (not formed by the TM) to address issues like mitigation and energy and involves some people not in the TM area.  They report to the TM.  The question was asked , if the TM can authorize a committee how is that different from the Chair and Vice Chair?  It would have to do with being empowered to handle specific issues.  John pointed out that, whether an appointed committee or elected TC, the legal responsibility/liability would still fall on the TC.  Martha suggested that the Cemetery Committee handles its own funds and issues – they do get people to sign releases.  Dan replied that we (the TC) have come into some risks – more risks with bigger grants.  Janos stated that we have to have Board and Officers Liability Insurance – it’s SOP.  Marcus added that the town does own land and we do have liability insurance.  Rick pointed out that there’s a reason people come together and it’s to provide greater opportunities for the group.  The collective is valuable to the health of the community as a whole.

Boyd reported that we’ve been looking into becoming a Firewise Community as well and wonders if the community of GH wants that designation.  The TM would need to support that.

Martha wondered, if some people want to go in the direction of getting all these grants, possible that group should look into forming their own 501(c)3.  Marcus replied that most grant people favor evidence of greater community support and buy in.  Most grants would see GHTM as a sub recipient with the BWSC or others as fiscal agent, but there does need to be a good sense of community support.  Key thing here is that, for the TM to be part of this process we need someone to sign the letter of commitment and help organize the required meetings – has low liability.

John made a motion to remand to the Chair the responsibility to look over this grant and then sign the letter, to support the grant and community meetings.  Janos felt we should not miss the step of the chair or a committee to approve the letter.  Pure Democracy is cumbersome , but also it is good to have the group make decisions – seems like that’s the way we want to go.  The vote was 10 yays with 2 abstentions.

Val questioned how we are going to identify our values.  Elisabeth wondered if we should have another Special TM.  Marcus said yes and need to look at our original articles of incorporation and bylaws and have that as a basis for a discussion of our broader values.

Martha stated we need to wrap this meeting up and made a motion to hold another Special Town Meeting in two weeks to discuss the articles of incorporation before getting into the weeds of the bylaws.  Marcus seconded it and the vote to approve was unanimous – 12 in favor.  Martha will also look into our liability insurance.

As far as where to hold the meeting, Dan reported the school is under scrutiny right now and the proper way would be to rent the school, have monitors, etc., and it’s expensive.  We’ll look into the Community Center (the upstairs of the Firebarn).  Kelly again mentioned our need to Step Back to Step Forward.

Marcus made a motion to adjourn, Martha seconded, Bear suggested we take a standing vote, and we adjourned at around 8:30.

Respectfully submitted, Gretchen Diefenderfer, Secretary.

Private Well Workshop

 
Boulder County will be hosting a private well workshop in Nederland on September 26. 
The flyer is attached. If you’re interested, please register using the following link: https://www.eventbrite.com/e/boulder-county-private-well-owner-workshop-nederland-tickets-1660783120019?aff=oddtdtcreator
 
Unfortunately, we are unable to provide a remote option at this time but we hope you can join us in-person this month or at future workshops.
 
Thank you so much. We hope to see you there. 
 
Debbie 

Posted in Community Digest, Events Calendar, Gold Hill Area Senior Alliance | Comments Off on Private Well Workshop

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Community Wood

A reminder to the Gold Hill Community that this Saturday 9/13, from 7:30 to 11:00 AM, is the 2nd firewood distribution day at the Ashram.
Questions? Text or call Boyd Brown at 720-438-9445

Special Town Meeting, Wednesday, 9/24/25 at 7:00

Hello Gold Hill- 
 
This is an announcement for an upcoming Special Meeting on Wednesday, 9/24 at 7:00. We are awaiting final confirmation on the physical location, which will either be the GH Fire Barn, or the GH School (update will come shortly). 
 
This is the continuation of a special meeting on Bylaws, held this past Monday. On Monday, the Town Meeting attendees took a step back and reviewed the Bylaws effort from the lens of shared values, philosophies, and principles. This was a rich discussion, and there was a motion to continue it.  This Special Meeting will cover; 
  1. Continued discussion around our shared values and Bylaw work. 
  2. Review of the Town Meeting’s Article of Incorporation, especially as they pertain to the GHTM’s role in grant work
  3. Approval of remaining Bylaws
 
Please review Gretchen’s minutes of that meeting and the slides presented, also in this newsletter. The Zoom link for our meeting, is below. 
 
 
Kelly Veit is inviting you to a scheduled Zoom meeting.

Topic: Special Meeting; Articles of Incorporation, Bylaw Values, Bylaw Revisions
Time: Sep 24, 2025 07:00 PM Mountain Time (US and Canada)
Join Zoom Meeting
https://us06web.zoom.us/j/83710865524?pwd=V5GAoQtMN7G6BczjT38JMCpDlwt5qA.1

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Meeting ID: 837 1086 5524
Passcode: 244887

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Thanks- Kelly 

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Cemetery barbed wire project

The Cemetery Committee will attempt to complete the barbed wire project on Sunday September 21st at 9:30 am.  Anyone interested in helping to remove the dangerous barbed wire along the road to the Cemetery, please come with gloves, long sleeves, and be prepared to sign a release form prior to working.  Shouldn’t take more than an hour if we all pull together.

Thank you, Maggie

maggiesimms54@nullgmail.com

GH Gold Rush – reminder

Don’t forget!  The Gold Hill Gold Rush (our annual Bake, Crafts, and Rummage sale) is this Sunday, September, 7th.  Calling for Volunteers! 

Special Town Meeting 9-8-25 info

Hello Gold Hill- 
 
This is a reminder for our upcoming Special Town Meeting, on Monday, September 8th at 7PM to discuss the bylaws. The ongoing conversation around bylaws was visited in our August 11th meeting. For more information on this August discussion, please see Getchen’s minutes  sent in her August 30th newsletter. This Special Meeting will be focused solely on revisiting specific bylaws for approval, and speaking more generally about the best approach to continue bylaw efforts. There will be no other agenda items or committee reports.  We are hoping to get as many participants as possible, so that bylaws reflect Town input. Any Town members with remaining concerns on specific bylaws, or creative ideas for garnering more participation on the bylaw process should attend. 
 
The meeting will be held in person at Gold Hill School, with a virtual option- linked below. 
 
Let me know if you have any questions. Thanks!
 
Kelly Veit is inviting you to a scheduled Zoom meeting.

Topic: GHTM Special Meeting-Bylaws
Time: Sep 8, 2025 07:00 PM Mountain Time (US and Canada)
Join Zoom Meeting
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Meeting ID: 818 7694 1065
Passcode: 086627

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Gold Hill Town Meeting Chair 
Gold Hill, CO

GHTM Minutes 8-11-2025 Town Meeting

GOLD HILL TOWN MEETING NEWSLETTER

Minutes of the August 11, 2025  Zoom and in person Town Meeting

 

Next Town Meeting is a Special Town Meeting on Bylaws

Monday, September 8, 7:00 p.m.

 The meeting was called to order by Chair Dan Maedke.  Eight people attended in person: Michael Albes, Member at Large John Hatelid, Dan, Martha Knapp, Secretary Gretchen Diefenderfer, Janos Wilder, Kalyn Pembridge, and Anita Sturtz.  Attending by Zoom: Val Crist, Vice Chair Kelly Veit, Maggie Simms and David Brigham, Kaitlyn Barthell, Virginia Schultz, Treasurer Chrissy Maedke, and Leslie Finn.

Minutes  –  John moved that we approve the minutes, Michael seconded and the minutes were approved as published.

Treasurer’s Report – Chrissy presented the report, which generated some discussion – for instance, how do we see how we came out on the Town Clean Up?  How much did it cost us and what did we bring in in donations.

Activity Spreadsheet & Summary
 
Date Activity/Description Earmark ACCT Credits Debits Balance
8.8.22 Electronic Withdrawl BoCo Treasurer GF – $66.58 $33,296.01
8.15.22 ck #1320 – Teens Inc. FM – $6,400.00 $26,896.01
8.22.22 ck #1318 – Geesaman T Co. CF – $250.00 $26,646.01
8.30.22 ck #1324 – Mountain Medlers PTO – $1,000.00 $25,646.01
8.31.22 ck #1323 – Gold Rush – D. Maedke CP – $1,000.00 $24,646.01
9.1.22 ck #1329 – Virginia Schultz FM – $515.35 $24,130.66
9.7.22 ck #1321 – Boulder Watershed Collective FM – $9,987.68 $14,142.98
9.13.22 ck #1328 – Yeager Excavation FM – $500.00 $13,642.98
9.15.22 ck #1327 – Emily Rose FM – $1,100.00 $12,542.98
9.19.22 Cash Deposit – Gold Rush CP $25.00 – $12,567.98
9.20.22 ck #1325 – Julie Carpenter FM – $1,100.00 $11,467.98
9.15.22 ck #1326 – Charles Steinberg FM – $1,100.00 $10,367.98
10.9.22 ck #5316 – Gold Rush CP $50.00 – $10,417.98
10.9.22 ck #4846 – Gold Rush CP $30.00 – $10,447.98
10.9.22 ck #1544 – Gold Rush CP $25.00 – $10,472.98
10.9.22 ck #9751 – Gold Rush CP $25.00 – $10,497.98
10.9.22 ck #360 – Cemetary Plot CF $200.00   $10,697.98
10.9.22 ck #0379 – Gold Rush CP $25.00 – $10,722.98
10.9.22 ck #7299 – Cemetary Plot CF $100.00 – $10,822.98
Not yet deposited Cash – Gold Rush CP $1,485.00 – $12,307.98
           

 Chrissy likes the various reports and has them posted on Google Drive. To access Google Drive, go to Google, in the upper R corner click on the box of 9 dots, click on Google Drive, then click on the little house labeled Home on the left and you will see the bylaws and the Treasurer’s reports (https://drive.google.com/drive/home). Several people expressed that Google Drive and QuickBooks can be confusing.  Martha thought that QB is more for accounting versus bookkeeping, which is what we did previously. 

Next on the Agenda was consideration of bylaws – after discussion, the consensus was to move to New Business – Elections – then reports and then vote on the 3 bylaws that were up for a yay or nay and see where we are.   Gretchen made a motion that we schedule a Special Town Meeting to focus on the remaining bylaws up for consideration/discussion.  General agreement was expressed.

Elections – With that we moved on to elections.  Michael expressed thanks and appreciation for everyone who has served on our present Council.  Dan announced that he was stepping down.  Gretchen asked if he might reconsider – he’s done a great job and we all appreciate him. Val concurred, but he added that he’s done it for 10 years and has other things he wants to focus on.  We have generally started with the Chair.

         Val nominated Kelly Veit for Chair, Martha seconded.  Kelly was uncertain and wanted to see what transpired with the rest of the Council.  Martha volunteered to be Vice-Chair. 

         Dan then thought we should flip the order and begin with the Member at Large.  John agreed to continue, which was unanimously supported and congratulations expressed.

         Secretary – Gretchen agreed to continue, was also unanimously supported.

         Treasurer – Val nominated Chrissy if willing, but she also declined.  Janos asked how many hours per week the position required.  Chrissy responded that it’s like all the jobs on the council – it’s what you make of it.  Just paying the bills and keeping track is not usually too time consuming, it’s what else you hope to do (like the bylaws).  Dan nominated Martha, Michael seconded, and she was elected unanimously.

         Vice Chair – Martha nominated Kaitlin, Gretchen seconded.  She agreed and was elected unanimously.

         With that, we were back around to Chair, and Martha nominated Kelly, who agreed to run, added she was happy to learn it and asked for a little grace.  Val seconded and Kelly was also elected unanimously.

So, our new Town Council:

         Chair                  Kelly Veit

         Vice Chair           Kaitlyn Barthell

         Secretary             Gretchen Diefenderfer

         Treasurer            Martha Knapp

         Member at Large John Hatelid

John proposed that Dan continue to run the meeting as Kelly is on the road and participating by Zoom and Dan agreed.  Dan thanked everyone for stepping up and Val added thank you, thank you, thank you – general clapping all around.

Committee Reports

AirLink – generated more discussion.  Really, it’s an affiliated organization, is its own 501(C)3, Dina Elder is mainly in charge and doesn’t live in Gold Hill any more.  However, we are holding $1000 in donations/grant money for them and are committed to $500/year to support the Ham radio tower up at Gretchen’s, which facilitates emergency communications. Also, we appreciate knowing what’s going on with them.  Chrissy added that there are also several community members with Ham licenses who participate.

 Senior Alliance – Val’s synopsis of GH Area Seniors’ Activities

         July’s meeting (@ Firestation) dealt with the following topic: Caregiving, presented by Rima, Rebecca, and Pam S.

         August meeting, hosted by Paul and Marybeth covered: Transportation, report from Val.

         Discussion of meeting frequency with an outcome of continuing monthly.

         Spontaneous social after.

Plant workshop 8/10/25 by botanist Kaitlyn and florist Joanne.  Collected and educated on weeds and made arrangements.

Upcoming Social 8/23/25 2-4 details to follow.

Plant/seed social w/Kaitlyn leading, details to follow

Cemetery – no report

Fundraising & Merchandise – John reports GH water bottles are in and will be for sale at the Gold Rush, September 7, Sunday.  It will be somewhat scaled down – no music – but will focus on baked goods, rummage, crafts.  Calling for volunteers to help.  Gretchen volunteered.  More info out soon – Addendum, see announcement and flyer on website (goldhilltown.com)-  https://goldhilltown.com/gold-hill-gold-rush-2/

Gold Hill School – School (K – 5) starts Wednesday, the 13th.  They have 12 students, one full-time teacher (Chrissy), and Christine who is ½ time office help and ½ time para.  Possibly will be looking for another 15-20 hour para.

Historic Zoning – no report

IMA – Pam Sherman sent an email:

IMA continues to be a hub connecting with ODM. ODM’ Emergency Coordinator Monika Weber introduced the new Emergency Manager, Ryan Singer. Monika will be doing emergency prep events throughout September and for Wildfire Awareness Week. The latter will be coordinated with Meg Halford of Wildfire Partners and Pam Sherman of IMA and PLT (Project Learning Tree.) Unusually strong and frequent chinook winds are expected for the next few weeks, so prep for evac now; be prepared, whether we end up getting evac’ed or not. 

We talked about the difference between WEAs (Wireless Emergency Alerts) and Everbridge Notifications. WEAs go out to everyone, tourists, visitors, residents and to a wider area. They are not specific. Everbridge Notifications go out to only specific areas; that’s why they ask for your address(es) when you sign up. 

Thank you,   Pam

Local Business Partnership – No report, but Kelly is recruiting people to join the committeel  Kalyn Pembridge voliunteered.

Mountain Stewards – Virginia reports that Boyd Brown and Marcus Moench worked on a grant application that came up suddenly.  They met with Boulder Watershed Collective (BWC) in cooperation with the BLM.  For the Fire Mitigation Festival, the goats were successful with fuels reduction in the town meadow. The BLM is finished with their work.  There are piles of slash down Lickskillet to burn in the future.  Val added that she also worked with the BLM (her place is surrounded).  The BLM by State law isn’t allowed to take out trees larger than 7”.  Wildfire Partners has a “Junk the Juniper” push planned.  We’ve sent a note asking if we can get assistance (up to $10,000) to work on this.

         Dan added that they did get the grant application in.  The Fire Department and the BWC  would facilitate.  Yes, the goats were very successful in providing a massive fuel break in the town meadow for the second year in a row, so we should be able to see how effective this proves to be. Home hardening was accomplished on 3 residences on Main Street.  Lots of slash was disposed of in the dumpsters.

Museum – no report , but Dan volunteered that the Community Outreach went really well and the Museum is open on weekends.

Native Gardens & Ecology Committee – Kaitlyn expressed thanks to Val for helping with two events – the June Meadow weed walk and the July weed workshop.  There will maybe be a seed collection event in the fall.

NeighborLink and SafeLink – no report.

BYLAWS

Vote on Proposed Bylaw Changes

 Article II: Membership  Proposed Addition

Section B, Membership Voting Procedures

The GHTM shall establish procedures and methods to ensure that only eligible members participate in elections, that all members are properly notified of the election, and that the nomination and voting processes, including all relevant deadlines, are clearly communicated in advance.

Election procedures may allow for voting to take place over a period of up to three (3) days, beginning with the date of the annual meeting.

The Town Council shall determine the methods of voting, which may include any combination of:

  • In-person voting by show of hands;
  • written ballot;
  • Voting by electronic means

Maggie moved we adopt, John seconded.  In the discussion, it was stressed that the voting options are to provide flexibility in case of something like COVID happens again.  Motion passed: 10 Ayes, 1 opposed, and 1 abstention.

Article III: Members Meetings Proposed Addition

Section G, Parliamentary Authority and Meeting Procedures: 

The GHTM shall conduct meetings in an orderly, inclusive manner that encourages good faith participation and respectful conduct. The general principles of Robert’s Rules of Order shall be applied, unless they conflict with the GHTM’s bylaws or any special or standing rules. The Chair, or the facilitating Town Council member, shall determine whether such a conflict exists and how to proceed.

In the discussion,  Gretchen suggested that everything after “The general principles of Robert’s Rules of Order shall be applied” should be deleted.  Val noted that it says “Proposed Addition” so discussion should be allowed and if it’s decided that we want to amend it, it will need to be voted on at the next meeting.  It was moved to table this, Michael seconded, and it passed unanimously.

Article VII: Financials

Section B, Financial Oversight and Budget Adjustments: Proposed Changes

All checks, drafts, notes, and similar financial instruments shall be signed and executed on behalf of the GHTM by Town Council members who are authorized signatories of the GHTM.

Once the annual budget has been approved, any adjustment to a committee’s allocated funds from the town’s general budget shall require approval from the relevant Committee Chair. Committees may spend their designated funds at their discretion, provided expenditures align with the committee’s stated mission and purpose.

The Treasurer is authorized to adjust non-committee operating budget allocations as necessary to meet the evolving needs of conducting GHTM business.  New purchases require GHTM approval.

Maggie moved we adopt, John seconded.  Discussion ensued regarding the last paragraph concerning the Treasurer being authorized to adjust the budget, but the motion passed with no nays.

Special Town Meeting to discuss further bylaws – Gretchen moved that we schedule another Special TM to continue discussing the bylaws on Monday, September 8.  Dan stated that he would love to see better participation.  Martha added that she has heard from several people that they no longer attend TMs because they’ve been taken over by the bylaws so the Special TM might help.  Chrissy expressed that we’ve been working on them for so long and that there has been opportunity for input many times, but Val said that she has not heard about specific bylaw committee meetings and that it’s important for people to know about them and have the opportunity to participate.  Leslie then suggested that a big issue is interest and attendance and that maybe we should do a massive campaign to let people now they’re members of the TM beyond the town emails – maybe send a postcard to everyone in the TM area.

Chrissy added that she thinks the website needs a great deal of work or we need a new one.  Gretchen responded that she’s spoken with Angela, our website person who set it up for us originally 11 years ago) and has a lot of pointers about tidying it up, but could use help.  Martha thinks we need to add a static link to Google Drive, since Chrissy put the bylaws, treasurers report, etc. there.

Maggie said she’d vote against a Special Bylaw TM if we’ll be discussing bylaws already approved as well as those still to be decided.  Gretchen expressed the opinion that some were approved without enough discussion – like the one that lets the TC have the town meetings whenever they decide rather than the second Monday of even months as it’s been (Article III, Members Meetings, Section A, General Membership Meetings).

The motion to have a Special TM on September 8 passed with 7 in favor and 4 nays.

Virginia added that it’s easy to get the list of property owners as well as the addresses of the actual property (in case the property owner is elsewhere) and it takes some work to get a good list.  Martha offered to help write the postcard if we decide to send one to everyone in the TM area

Michael moved we adjourn, it was seconded and passed unanimously.

Respectfully Submitted, Gretchen Diefenderfer, Secretary

 

UPCOMING EVENTS

Gold Rush -Sunday, September 7 from 9-2

Buffalo Bicycle Classic – September 7

Fall Bocce Tournament –  Saturday, August 30

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

        

 

 

        

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Gold Hill Gold Rush

Gold Hill Gold Rush, Sunday, September 7, 9 am to 2 pm – see flyer

 

 

Book Signing for Leslie Finn’s new book

Announcement: There will be a book signing gathering for Leslie Finn’s second book: “When The Skies Wuz Fair and Blue”

When: September 8th, 4:30-6:30

Where: The Blue Bird Lodge

Light appetizers and libations will be provided.

Leslie will sign books for the first hour, then do a small reading from the book and answer questions. She will also have copies of the first book. Please join us for an afternoon with friends, family, and some fun fictional history.

Please RSVP to finn.leslie@nullgmail.com so we can have enough snacks. 

Gold Hill Area Seniors

The next Senior plant walk with everyone in town invited as well
 
It’s 7/14, next Mon. 
 
Flyer attached.
 
Thanks,
 
Val

GH Area Senior Alliance Mtg

Hello Everyone,
 
Happy Summer! 
 
WHEN:
At our Tuesday July 1 meeting (this coming Tuesday) at 4 pm!
 
WHAT:
Our topic is Caregiving!
We will hear about how to set up a Share the Care Team and 
hear from Gold Hill Area Senior Alliance members who are professional caregivers,
Rebecca and Rima, then hear from everyone. We have a lot of experienced caregivers here 
who help and have helped neighbors and we would love to hear from you! 
 
Please come and share your wisdom and discuss your thoughts on caregiving in the GH area and surrounding canyons.
 
WHERE:
The meeting will take place at Luzie and Bob Mason’s home, 
on the north side of Main Street, across the street from and just down a bit from The Store and just up from the Inn. 
Their home is right next to the mailboxes. Lots of aspens around their house.
 
Please bring your own folding chair.
 
Huge thanks to Rebecca for offering her Zoom and setting up this link for those who are unable to come in person:
 
Join Zoom Meeting
 
Meeting ID: 812 9133 6921
Passcode: 622970
 
 
See you then!
 
photo byGaimard on Pixabay.com

Agenda GHTM 6-9-25

Gold Hill Town Meeting

Monday, 7:00 p.m. June 9th, 2025

In- Person @ Gold Hill School &Zoom Virtual Meeting

Dan Maedke is inviting you to a scheduled Zoom meeting.

Topic: June Gold Hill Town Meeting
Time: Jun 9, 2025 07:00 PM Mountain Time (US and Canada)
Join Zoom Meeting https://us06web.zoom.us/j/83393410307?pwd=ws16ftTLCI1MfG1yRqErEbaVYLbhUN.1

View meeting insights with Zoom AI Companion https://us06web.zoom.us/launch/edl?muid=60d4ce5c-1b41-48cd-8ff4-48abc03e463f

Meeting ID: 833 9341 0307 Passcode: 844646

 
  1. Review and Approval of Previous Minutes (any additions or corrections)
  2. Treasurer’s Report
 Old Business – to find these, Go to Google Drive (on Google, click on the square of dots and select Google Drive then Home on the left) and you will find them – They’re the ones in yellow.
  1. Vote on proposed By-Law Changes (Chrissy)
    1. Article II  Section B
    2. Article 3 New Section G
    3. Article 5 New Section
    4. Article 6 Section A,B,C
    5. Article 7 B,C,D
    6. NOT Article 5 Section I
  2. Fire Mitigation Festival (Marcus, Boyd, Dan)
    1. WildFire Mitigation Festival Dates: Goats, community work, Teens Inc, WildfirePartners, Sunset Trail Running Festival
    2. Need for volunteers!!
  3. Website and Insurance Update

6. Committee Reports

  • ○  AirLink
  • ○  Senior Alliance (Pam and Leslie)
  • ○  Cemetery (Maggie Simms)
  • ○  Fundraising & Merchandise (John)
  • ○  Gold Hill School (Chrissy, Jojo, Dan)
  • ○  Historical Zoning (Bear)
  • ○  IMA (Pam)
  • ○  Local Business Partnership (Kelly)
  • ○  Mountain Stewards (Virginia, Marcus, Cat)
  • ○  Museum ( Debra)
  • ○  Native Gardens & Ecology Committee (Kaitlyn)
  • ○  NeighborLink (Debra)
  • ○  SafeLink (Debra)New Business

7. Upcoming Events

  1. June 14th File of Life Event
  2. Gold Hill Pride Parade
  3. Teens Inc June 16th -26th
  4. Slash Dumpsters June 19th and 20th
  5. Sunset Trail Running Festival June 22nd
  6. August Town Meeting will be ELECTIONS!!
____________________________________________________________________

Next Gold Hill Town Meeting: August 11th , 7pm ____________________________________________________

Fire Mitigation Festival updated

Your Mountain Stewards at work!  Mitigation and preparedness happenings in June, plus a fundraising trail running race, and File of Life handouts


Gold Hill Pride Parade

Come join Gold Hill’s Community Pride Parade on Saturday, June 14, 2025!  Costumes, flags, songs, fun.  

Gold Hill Town Clean Up, Sat. May 31, 2025

Here’s the latest flyer for your information.  We do still need some volunteers!  If you have a couple of hours to donate to the clean up effort, it would be greatly appreciated <3

2025 Spring Clean Up

Saturday, May 31, 2025

9 a.m. – 2 p.m. at the Bluebird Lodge parking lot.

For all within the Town Meeting boundaries 

DIVERSION is the focus again this year. Boulder County is a great support for our diversion/recycling efforts, but does not fund trash disposal.  We will be getting two dumpsters for trash and we will have to pay for them (roll off fee is $703.40 per container), so we will need to charge (rate sheet at the end). 

Four Dumpsters will arrive between 8:30 and 9:00 a.m – 2 for junk/trash (we will need to collect a fee for trash and donations for the diversion stuff), one for metal, one for wood – slash and general wood/lumber as in the past.  Please don’t come with stuff earlier than 9:00. 

***And, yes, please, we need volunteers to help!***

To volunteer, please contact me, Gretchen Diefenderfer, at gretchend@nullmac.com  (303-442-3847). Thank You!

DIVERSION –  see http://www.ecocycle.org/charm for what you can take there and costs

Styrofoam  – #6 White Block Foam only (often referred to as Styrofoam; NO shipping labels on foam, packing peanuts, “Styrofoam” (polystyrene) cups, “to-go” boxes, meat trays or any other food-grade foam, moisture, or tape)

Household hazardous waste (HHW)

            Motor Oil, Antifreeze

           Car batteries

            Paint – latex and oil based

            As many of the following materials as our County helper, Michal, can fit in her pickup truck.  Then she will take them down to CHaRM at the end of the event:

  • Mattresses, Box Springs
  • e-waste
  • block Styrofoam

METAL Container – No liquids  – No tires on rims (just rims are ok!) – No batteries – No paint cans with paint still in them.  We will NOT take fridges, or tires this year.  Wire fencing and barbed wire are ok.

 WOOD Container – No chemically treated wood including stain or paint – No nails in the wood (although a few seem to be ok, just not an excessive amount) – No particleboard.  Slash is ok – no longer than 18” (be judicious with this – there is only one dumpster and it can’t take a forest of slash) 

        TRASH  Containers  – junk – No recyclables!  We need to pay for this and will need to charge for trash. We also request donations for the diversion items.  Please remember that it would be much more expensive to take a truckload to the dump or to Nederland (trash taken to Nederland is charged $16 per cubic yard – see https://bouldercounty.gov/environment/trash/nederland-transfer-and-recycle/#1601564428438-33e156fc-5926 for their fees).

         $5 per large trash bag

            $20  per car, van, or SUV (less for just a few things)

            $35 per pick-up truck or trailer full

            $35 – 40 per vehicle with trailer

 Repurposing – We encourage people to bring stuff that others might want.  Be prepared to pick these items up if no one wants them, or for them to go into the dumpsters.  We will take some stuff down to donate in Boulder, either to second hand stores or to Resource Central – would love volunteers to help with this.

 Any propane bottles must be vented and this means the entire top mechanism must be removed.  Just opening it does not suffice. We made this mistake once and it cost us

It’s amazing how much stuff piles up!  This is your chance to clear that stuff out!

And, yes, please, we need volunteers to help –  please contact me, Gretchen, at gretchend@nullmac.com or 303-442-3847    THANK YOU!

 

 

Memorial Day Mountin’ Mountain!

Memorial Day Mountin’ Mountain Hike
 
All mountain folk are invited to year #27 of the annual and beloved Mountin-Mountain ~10k hike.  It’s our funky mountain version of the larger, more crowded walk in Boulder that day.
Start time is 9:30 a.m. on Monday, May 26, and the start point is where CR 52 meets the Peak-to Peak. Carpoolers can meet in front of the Inn at 9 a.m.  
 
Food donations and your camp chairs may be dropped off at the “there’s no SAG wagon this year” site– hosted by David and Maggie — enroute to the start point.  The SAG wagon is in for repairs, but we’ll meet at the normal place where CR 52 meets the Switzerland Trail.  You’ll probably see a table or two in that area.  Chairs will not be provided, so drop off your own when you’re enroute to
the start point.  David and Maggie will transport chairs back to their home at 390 Hill St after the hike.
 
Participants walk, skip, run or board at their own pace. Be sure to bring plenty of water and layers in the event of inclement weather.  The Mountin’ Mountain will happen rain or shine.  Cuz we’re hardy mountain folk.
Questions may be directed to Pam Leland, Becky Martinek or Maggie Simms.
 
 

2025 Spring Clean Up 5-31-25

2025 Spring Clean Up

Saturday, May 31, 2025

9 a.m. – 2 p.m. at the Bluebird Lodge parking lot.

For all within the Town Meeting boundaries 

DIVERSION is the focus again this year. Boulder County is a great support for our diversion/recycling efforts, but does not fund trash disposal.  We will be getting two dumpsters for trash and we will have to pay for them, so we will need to charge (rate sheet at the end). 

Four Dumpsters will arrive between 8:30 and 9:00 a.m. – 2 for junk/trash (we will need to collect a fee for trash and donations for the diversion stuff), one for metal, one for wood – slash and general wood/lumber as in the past.  Please don’t come with stuff earlier than 9:00. 

***And, yes, please, we need volunteers to help!***

To volunteer, please contact me, Gretchen Diefenderfer, at gretchend@nullmac.com  (303-442-3847). Thank You!

DIVERSION –  see http://www.ecocycle.org/charm for what you can take there and costs

Styrofoam  – #6 White Block Foam only (often referred to as Styrofoam; NO shipping labels on foam, packing peanuts, “Styrofoam” (polystyrene) cups, “to-go” boxes, meat trays or any other food-grade foam, moisture, or tape)

Household hazardous waste (HHW)

            Motor Oil, Antifreeze

           Car batteries

            Paint – latex and oil based

 

METAL Container – No liquids – No fridges – No tires on rims (just rims are ok!) – No batteries – No paint cans with paint still in them.  We will NOT take fridges, electronics, or tires this year.  Wire fencing and barbed wire are ok

 WOOD Container – No chemically treated wood including stain or paint – No nails in the wood (although a few seem to be ok, just not an excessive amount) – No particleboard.  Slash is ok – no longer than 18” (be judicious with this – there is only one dumpster and it can’t take a forest of slash) 

        TRASH  Containers  – junk – No recyclables!  We need to pay for this and will need to charge for trash. We also request donations for the diversion items.  Please remember that it would be much more expensive to take a truckload to the dump or to Nederland (trash taken to Nederland is charged $16 per cubic yard – see https://bouldercounty.gov/environment/trash/nederland-transfer-and-recycle/#1601564428438-33e156fc-5926 for their fees).

         $5 per large trash bag

            $20  per car, van, or SUV (less for just a few things)

            $35 per pick-up truck or trailer full

            $35 – 40 per vehicle with trailer

 Repurposing – We encourage people to bring stuff that others might want.  Be prepared to pick these items up if no one wants them, or for them to go into the dumpsters.  We will take some stuff down to donate in Boulder, either to second hand stores or to Resource Cenntral – would love volunteers to help with this.

 Any propane bottles must be vented and this means the entire top mechanism must be removed.  Just opening it does not suffice. We made this mistake once and it cost us

It’s amazing how much stuff piles up!  This is your chance to clear that stuff out!

And, yes, please, we need volunteers to help –  please contact me, Gretchen, at gretchend@nullmac.com or 303-442-3847    THANK YOU!

 

4th of July fireworks no longer allowed at Ward Ballfield

 IMPORTANT ANNOUNCEMENT FROM THE WARD TOWN MARSHAL, STEVE DAVIS – RE: 4th of July in Ward 

*** PRIVATE FIREWORKS WILL NO LONGER BE ALLOWED AT THE WARD BALLFIELD. PLEASE DO NOT BRING ILLEGAL FIREWORKS TO WARD. ***

Due to safety concerns and fire danger, we regret to announce that the Fireworks Battle and Bonfire at the Ward ballfield has been officially discontinued.

This decision was made by the residents of Ward through an official referendum vote in April 2025, in order to ensure the well-being of our community and visitors.

This decision will be upheld and enforced by the Ward Town Marshal. Local and professional security officers will be present to ensure the safety of the community.

*** BUT… THE TOWN OF WARD IS STILL PLANNING AWESOME EVENTS FOR THE 4TH OF JULY!! 🇺🇲

🎉 🍭 PARADE

📸 🤺 TOWN PHOTO

🎸🥁 LOCAL LIVE MUSIC

🍔🍗 TOWN BBQ

⚾🤸 SOFTBALL GAME

Stay tuned for more updates on the schedule of events. We appreciate your understanding and look forward to seeing you all this July 4th!! ❤️🤍💙

Thank you,

Steve Davis
Town of Ward Marshal

May Senior Alliance meeting, Tuesday, 5-20-25

Hello Everyone,
 
The May Senior Alliance meeting will be Tuesday May 20th at 4 pm at the Fire Barn.
Topic: Emergency Preparedness–new tools to help the Fire Department help us, especially as we age; discussion on the File of Life tool, buddy system, and more.  We don’t know yet if internet will be available at this meeting. It will be available at all summer meetings. We’ll check in with our community teams, too!
 
No meeting Tuesday May 13. Instead, echoing Joanne, we can now go to the School Board meeting to advocate for the Gold Hill School–we’ve done it before and we can do it again!! And consider writing an email to the School Board members. For complete information on both, click here: https://goldhilltown.com/protecting-what-works-at-gold-hill-school/
 
Resources for our upcoming meeting on May 20:
 
 
The June meeting will be Tuesday June 3 at 4 pm at The Fire Barn. Internet available.
Topic is dementia, presenter is our own Michele Cohen, GHASA founding member, FourMile resident,
with years of experience in working with dementia caregivers. We’ll briefly check in with our community teams.
 
The July meeting will be Tuesday July 1 at 4 pm at The Fire Barn. Internet available.
Topic is creating Share the Care Teams around individuals in community. Please come 
share your experience doing this so we can all learn from each other. Pam will present briefly on the
Share the Care model for palliative/end of life care. We’ll check in with our community teams first.
 
image by Counselling on Pixabay.com

GH Museum Community Outreach

YOU ARE INVITED, GOLD HILL COMMUNITY AND YOUR GUESTS to our Community Outreach for 2025.  Please plan on joining us on Friday, June 20th at 5:30 pm at the Gold Hill History Museum for a cocktail party!  Come to the south yard of the museum prepared with some cash for a contest, great food and drink and the debut of our new items in our gift area.  We have a new long sleeve or short sleeve tee shirt, a new Bluebird ornament, and some great new note cards featuring the Bluebirds.  We also still have the Bluebird tea towel, apron, and tote bag and many other items.

 

Our guest speaker and presenter is Kayann Short, Ph.D. Author, A Bushel’s Worth: An Ecobiography who is currently completing a new book (coming 2026) on the subject of The Bluebirds.  She is specifically focusing on the early days of The Bluebirds in Gold Hill.  Her presentation will be from 7:00 pm for 45 minutes.

 

As always, this event is CLOSED to the public; however, if you are a resident of Gold Hill, you, your family and extended family and friends are welcome. Seating is limited and no food or drink is allowed inside the museum.

 

See you soon!  If you have any questions, please call 303 881 7665.

 

Debra Yeager

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