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

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.:

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

I’m sure you’ve all heard that weather folks are predicting the possibility of a big snowstorm heading this way

…WINTER STORM WARNING IN EFFECT FROM MIDNIGHT MST FRIDAY NIGHT TO
6 AM MDT MONDAY…

* WHAT…Heavy snow. Total snow accumulations of 2 to 4 feet
possible, except 10 to 20 inches possible west of the Eisenhower
Tunnel. Winds could gust as high as 35 mph.

* WHERE…Rocky Mountain National Park and the Medicine Bow Range,
The Mountains of Summit County, the Mosquito Range, and the Indian
Peaks, The Northern Front Range Foothills, and The Southern Front
Range Foothills.

* WHEN…From Midnight MST Friday Night to 6 AM MDT Monday.

* IMPACTS…Travel could be impossible due to the depth of the
accumulating snow.

* ADDITIONAL DETAILS…Finish preparations for this storm by Friday.

PRECAUTIONARY/PREPAREDNESS ACTIONS…

If you must travel, keep an extra flashlight, food, and water in
your vehicle in case of an emergency. The latest road conditions for
Colorado can be obtained by calling 5 1 1 or by going to www.cotrip.
org

Here’s a heads-up from Deb Yeager, deb@nullmountainvisions.net

Reminder: There a possibility of losing electrical power during the upcoming storm. For anyone who is electrically-dependent, i.e., oxygen, heat, cooking, or other need, remember to get your generator running or reach out for assistance from the neighborhood.

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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Click here to view the online version.

GOLD HILL FIRE PROTECTION DISTRICT
BOARD OF DIRECTORS & PENSION BOARD ZOOM AGENDA
FEBRUARY 23, 2021 7:00 PM
Join Zoom Meeting
https://us02web.zoom.us/j/81305640603?pwd=TWdwZG1kanh1OUJkRHJXdnhDdWJTZz09

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.

Campers west of town:
• Campers and campfires will return. Proactive steps and protocols should be developed that provide a safe and speedy alternative to waiting for a Sheriff to arrive hours later. Vrba’s practice of leaving water containers at campsite is one option. The board has discussed the possible use of a drone to scout a campsite.

ADJORN AND RECONVENE AS THE GOLD HILL FIRE PENSION BOARD.

Update and review.

Due to Covid, Board meetings are being conducted by ZOOM until further notice.
Please check back here at goldhillfire.org before the meeting date to access the Zoom Link for the meeting. You will also find minutes of previous meetings as well as other Fire Department information

CANCELLED – Tuesday, February 16th, 2021 – 7:00pm – Via ZOOM LINK
RESCHEDULED – Tuesday, February 23rd, 2021 – 7:00pm – VIA ZOOM LINK

Notice with the Zoom Link will follow

Mountain Anti-Racist Self-Education Group (MARSEG) is starting a new book February 25!

MARSEG is a great 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.

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. To RSVP and receive the Google meet link by email, please contact Cat by email at wildcat.russell@nullgmail.com. (Those who have already sent an email or PM on Nextdoor are on the list so you don’t need to send a second message.)

Thanks!

Cat Russell wildcat.russell@nullgmail.com

Wildfire Partners

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 the East Troublesome Fire and how it showed mitigation works!

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

Join via Zoom:
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.

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Wildfire Partners
2045 13th Street
Boulder, CO 80302
www.wildfirepartners.org
303-441-1420
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Gold Hill Town Meeting
Monday, 7:00 p.m. February 8th, 2020
____________________________________________________________________________
Zoom Virtual Meeting

Topic: Gold Hill Town Meeting
Time: Feb 8, 2021 07:00 PM Mountain Time (US and Canada)

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____________________________________________________________

Review of Previous Minutes (any additions or corrections)
Treasurer’s Report
Committee Reports
Mountain Stewards
Bee Safe Neighborhood – reminder
Register online at: https://www.thepeoplesbees.com/pledge
Coordinator: Chrissy Maedke

Update from Mountain Stewards – Virginia

Forestry and Forest Management
Maya McHamer to answer questions about Gold Hill mitigation project
Gold Hill School
Museum
Community Planning and Fundraising
Cemetery
Community Center
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!

SafeLink/NeighborLink
Food Pantry
Emergency Preparedness/Communications
Survey Intro – Sarah
AirLink
Weed Management
Historical Zoning
Fire Department
Other Town News:
Community Resources
Mental Health Vouchers from the Boulder Community Foundation
Additional info – contact Kelly Viet at 847-903-3396 or veit.kelly@nullgmail.com
https://www.bouldercounty.org/news/announcing-the-launch-of-a-new-wildfire-mental-health-program/
Community Concerns
Speeding in Gold Hill – County has no additional solutions, but is developing a Speed Study. If there is interest, we can sign up when it is complete.
Upcoming Meetings/Events

____________________________________________________________________________

Next Gold Hill Town Meeting: April 12th, 7:00 pm
____________________________________________________________

Colorado’s Drought
Worst Drought Since 2002

How low can it go?

It doesn’t look like a lake anymore. The image that comes to mind is a dried up mud puddle, thirsting for water.

Boulder County community task-force-brochure

As a longtime resident to Nederland, Barker Reservoir is a fixture. It’s the first thing you see as you crest the hill driving up from Boulder Canyon. The scene is a beautiful one with the snow capped Indian Peaks in the background, sunlight glinting off the water.

The dried up reservoir is just a symptom of a larger problem — Colorado is in severe drought.
Read More
Getting Rid of Slash in Winter

With the lack of snow and the increase in winds, you might find yourself with a lot of downed limbs and trees. You’re pilling things into slash piles, but with slash burning limited by the dry conditions, what can you do with it?

Though the county sort yards are closed, Western Disposal does accept slash from Boulder County residents at a discounted rate. They charge $2.50/100 pounds of slash, or 50 cents/20 pounds for lighter loads. Branches must be less than 12 inches in diameter.

Western Disposal is located at 5880 Butte Mill Road in Boulder and they are open 7 a.m. to 5 p.m. Monday through Friday, and 7 a.m. to 2 p.m. on Saturdays.

Pull out that chainsaw and get cutting!

Short Term Rentals

Do you own a Short Term Rental property? Do you know someone who owns a Short Term Rental? More information about applying for a STR license can be found on the county website.

Effective February 7, 2021, Boulder County has updated their code and is now requiring homeowners applying for Short Term Rental licenses to get a Wildfire Partners assessment. More information will be available on our website in March.

Let’s Talk Mitigation!
Wednesday evening

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

This month, we’ll be talking about Colorado’s drought and what it means for wildfires this summer. Did you know this is the worst drought we’ve had since 2002?

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, February 10 at 7 p.m.

Join Zoom Meeting
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Meeting ID: 814 6607 5732
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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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Recorded Webinars on Wildfire Preparedness

Fire Ecology and Behavior

Defensible Space and Home Hardening

Fire Resistant Landscapes

Evacuation Preparedness and Animal Evacuation

Webinar Schedule:Click here to register for these free events
Feb 2 – Historic Forest/Fire Management and Policy: Tony Cheng, Professor of Forestry, CSU
Feb 9 – Fire Effects on Ecosystem Services: Mike Caggiano, Research Associate, Colorado Forest Restoration Institute, CSU; Richard Thorp, Fort Collins City Utilities
Feb 16 – Colorado Climate Change: Russ Schumacher, Associate Professor of Meteorology, Colorado State Climatologist
March 2 -Cameron Peak & East Troublesome Fire: Operations:Brad White, Grand County Fire Chief (Additional speakers pending confirmation)
March 9 – Cameron Peak & East Troublesome Fire: Sub-alpine Ecology/Historical Perspective: Jason Sibold, Assistant Professor of Geography, CSU
March 16 – Cameron Peak & East Troublesome Fires: Montane Fire History: Peter Brown, Director, Rocky Mountain Tree Ring Research, Inc.
March 23 – Cameron Peak & East Troublesome Fires: Short-term Post-fire Land Management: Jennifer Kovecses, Coalition for the Poudre River Watershed (Additional speakers pending confirmation)
March 30 – Cameron Peak & East Troublesome Fires: Long-term Post-fire Land Management: Laura Marshall, Postdoctoral Fellow, Dept. of Forest and Rangeland Stewardship, CSU
April 6 – Cameron Peak & East Troublesome Fires: Post-fire Recovery & Resilience: Long-term Outlook: Marin Chambers, Research Associate, Colorado Forest Restoration Institute; Chuck Rhoades, Biogeochemist, USFS Rocky Mountain Research Station
April 20 – Future Fire Policy: Courtney Schultz, Associate Professor of Forest and Natural Resource Policy, CSU

Click here to register
*All webinars will be recorded and posted to the Southern Rockies Fire Science Network YouTube channel.

Topic: Special Town Meeting: Community Center
Time: Jan 25, 2021 07:00 PM Mountain Time (US and Canada)

Just to highlight – we do have a dial in option now that we have the Town Zoom account! Those who can’t video chat can call in. Let your neighbors know who do not have internet

Join Zoom Meeting
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Meeting ID: 819 1251 2782
Passcode: 883568
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Meeting ID: 819 1251 2782
Passcode: 883568
Find your local number: https://us02web.zoom.us/u/kddWsp4o2P

Best,

Emma M Dirolf
emma.dirolf@nullgmail.com
513.259.1532

GOLD HILL TOWN MEETING NEWSLETTER
Minutes of the December 14, 2020 Town Meeting by Zoom

Next Regular Town Meeting will be Monday February 8, 7:00 P.M. by Zoom

The meeting was called to order by Chair Emma Dirolf. Thirteen people (if I missed anyone, please let me know) checked in: Emma, Deb Yeager, Val Crist, Marcus Moench, Elisabeth Caspari, Sarah Davis of S.R.D. Consulting, Secretary Gretchen Diefenderfer, Dick Cole, Leslie Finn, Emily Rose, Vice-Chair Mari Sidell, Virginia Schultz, Chris Dirolf

Emma then introduced Sarah Davis, our Boulder County Consultant, to present the summary of the Resilient Renewal Design Initiative (https://www.resilientgoldhill.com/feasibility-study), the study conducted for Gold Hill with our Technical Advisory Committee composed of Marcus, Elisabeth, Dina and Mark Elder, Bob Mazurkiewicz, Paul Melamed, Virginia, Cat Russell, Heidi Kessler and Richard Roth. The goal of the study was to evaluate the technical, economic, social and environmental feasibility of providing the community with renewable energy. It kicked off in Feb. 2020 and met monthly looking at solution brainstorming, feasibility, and prioritization. The most feasible solutions seem to be for individual households: energy efficiency, rooftop solar installations, and home battery back-up systems. Other areas of consideration are a Community Center Solar Microgrid although there are regulatory challenges with Exel Energy. Other considerations: local water supply, communication issues, electrical vehicle charging, mobile battery storage trailer, neighborhood hubs. They looked at the technical feasibility, financial feasibility and regulatory feasibility of all the solutions considered, and the possible path forward – the need to create a non-profit quasi-governmental entity, benchmarks and system tracking progress. Phase 1 – Funding for bulk purchasing for solar systems, battery storage systems, etc., before the end of 2021. Phase 2 – Finding space for a Community Center – new or retrofit. Phase 3 – Future possibilities, including wind energy and geothermal energy.
Addressing energy efficiency, Virginia added the EnergySmart link: https://energysmartyes.cfom / and Cat Russell has a renewable energy survey we can all fill out at https://www.climateactionmaps.org/challenges
For more information, the study is full of amazing information and there will be hard copies at the Store. You can also contact one of our Gold Hill members of the committee: Dina Elder: dina.elder@nullgmail.com, Marcus Moench: marcus.moench@nullgmail.com, Cat Russell: wildcat.russell@nullgmail.com, Virginia Schultz: virginia.schultz@nullcolorado.edu They are looking at grants for funding from the State and the County. Reliable communication is top of the list. DOLA is revamping their funding. Virginia added that the USDA has all kinds of grants for conservation. Even FEMA is thinking of funding things before disasters strike vs. after.

Minutes of the October GHTM were approved as published

Treasurer’s Report – Martha emailed her report
Gold Hill Town Meeting Treasurer’s Report Summary: 12/14/2020
At the previous regular Town Meeting in August 2020 our bank balance was $17,999.74. Our current total cash assets are $17,297.10.
Revenue Summary: Cemetery Fund donations $100, General Fund additions $243.15 from pint glass sales totaling $217 and bank safe deposit box refund $26.15.
Expense Summary: Cemetery miscellaneous expense $60.44; Liability insurance policy renewal $303 from the General Fund; and $682.35 food bank expense from the COVID-19 Response Fund.
Fund transfers: $300 from General Fund to Community Planning/Fundraising for t-shirt/pint glass expenses.
Current fund totals: General Fund $3676.86; Cemetery $3,105.21; Safe Link (combined fundsfor SafeSite, AirLink, NeighborLink projects) $2,466.79; Community Planning/Fundraising $300; Forest Management $0 (zero;) Community Relief $2,375.20; COVID-19 Response Fund $1,373.04; Water Harvesting/Ag Education Grant $4,000.
Anticipated expenses for remainder of 2020: General Fund $50.00 for porta-potty maintenance.

Prepared by
Martha Knapp, Treasurer Gold Hill Town Meeting, Inc. 12/14/2020
We do still have money in the COVID relief fund to help people in need in this time of COVID – loss of income, jobs, medical needs. For information and the application form, https://goldhilltown.com/ghtm-community-relief-fund/ Quite a bit of money has gone to help support the Gold Hill Food Bank also, which serves the community on Mondays at 3:00 p.m. in front of the Gold Hill Hotel and Inn.

COMMITTEE REPORTS
Mountain Stewards – Email from Chrissy Maedke – How to sign up to be a Bee Safe Neighborhood – This program is now being sponsored through The People’s Bees https://www.thepeoplesbees.com

The idea is that you try to get at least 75 addresses to commit to either:
• Level One Pledge: I will not use any insecticide products that include neonicotinoids or systemic poisons on my property.
• Level Two Pledge: I will not use any insecticide products whatsoever on my property.
• Level Three Pledge: I will not use any insecticide products whatsoever on my property, and will plant nectar- and pollen-rich flowers to feed the local bees.
They register online at: https://www.thepeoplesbees.com/pledge
When a person registers, the neighborhood is Gold Hill, and I am the coordinator: Chrissy Maedke. (PS, I am doing this as a citizen, not as a teacher.)

Forestry and Forest Management – Virginia reports that there are big Wildfire Mitigation projects in the works. Maya MacHamer at fourmilewatershed@nullgmail.com is working with us and the Fire Department on plans for the north side of Gold Hill including the Ashley property and the Ashram. The old mitigation efforts will be re-mitigated and improved. We will have to burn slash piles and possibly do prescriptive burns as well. Chris Dirolf has participated in prescriptive burns and every little bit helps to thin trees and open the landscape. There is nice data on how much the mitigation work that had been done helped in our last fire. Emily spoke about the cutting that was done on the north side in the past and the slash was left. She had questions about how this will be dealt with. Virginia replied that this is a big project and there will be a full report and maps. The work on the top can be done with hand crews, but the lower, steeper parts will probably require big equipment. There will be opportunities for local input to make sure our concerns are addressed. Mari added that Maya is very available and willing to come to the GHTM and do community outreach. Chris Dirolf said that Tuesday, Dec. 15 is the Fire Board Meeting and they will be looking at this project and touching base with Maya on Thursday. Emma is happy to invite Maya to come to our February and April GHTMs so we can tell her our concerns and find out about the plans.
Gold Hill School – no report

Gold Hill Museum – Deb reports that they are finishing up the year and there are still things available for sale: towels, t-shirts, etc. Call Deb at 303- 449-0454.

Community Planning – no report, Cemetery – no report, Community Center – no report

Food Pantry – Deb reports that the Foot Pantry is still distributing food on Mondays in front of the Gold Hill Hotel and Inn at 3:00 p.m. They are working on getting the refrigerator and freezer used for storage wired – they’re temporarily hooked up with extension cords at the Firebarn now.

SafeLink/NeighborLink/AirLink/Emergency Preparedness/Communications –
Deb reports that NeighborLink, our glorified phone tree, is still getting updated and we’re working on how to get information to everyone in emergencies, how to reach new people and let them know about how to get connected to make sure they hear about evacuation orders, and get signed up with the Office of Emergency Management (boulderoem.com) for Everbridge (the County’s reverse 9-1-1) www.boco911alert.com. We’re working on a survey to find out how everyone wants to be contacted, who all lives in each house, their email address, etc. Virginia added that OEM is coming out with a new hazard mitigation plan as well. More revised information will be included in Welcome Buckets.

Weed Management – Marcus noted extensive leafy spurge outbreaks that will need to be addressed.

Historical Zoning – no report

Fire Department – Leslie reported that COVID vaccinations are now happening and how soon the GHFPD gets them is still unknown.

Non Discrimination Statement – Marcus said that we need a non-discrimination statement in the bylaws, specifically to apply for grants. Here is what we came up with at our last meeting:
The Gold Hill Town Meeting, Inc., does not and shall not discriminate on the basis of race, color, religion (creed), gender expression, age, citizenship status, national origin (ancestry), disability, marital status, sexual orientation, political affiliation or military status, in any of its activities or operations. These activities include, but are not limited to, election of Town Council members, participation by any members of the Town Meeting area, selection of volunteers or vendors, or potential hiring and firing of any staff. We are committed to providing an inclusive and welcoming environment for all members of the Gold Hill Town Meeting, Inc., its partners, guests and attendees, volunteers, subcontractors and vendors.
Gretchen moved that we approve this statement and add it to the bylaws and the motion carried.

Zoom for the GHTM – Virginia moved that we approve purchase of a professional Zoom account for town meetings and affiliated educational events. Mari seconded and the motion passed.

Emma will reach out to Maya MacHamer and see if she can attend our next meeting to discuss the Wildfire Mitigation planning for Gold Hill, and to Pam Sherman about weed management. Someone suggested getting a town goat.

Respectfully submitted, Gretchen Diefenderfer, Secretary

From: Webster, Kerry <kwebster@bouldercounty.org>
Sent: Tuesday, January 19, 2021 2:53 PM

Subject: High Wind Warning for Boulder County -No Open Burning 1/20/21

Good afternoon,
There has been a High Wind Warning issued for western Boulder County tomorrow, so there will be no burning allowed from 1/20/21 at 00:00 until 23:59 on 1/20/21 for the entirety of the county. Sustained winds of 35 to 45 are expected with gusts to 75 mph. They should be diminishing as the day progresses. If you have questions, please don’t hesitate to call.
Have a good day!

Larimer and Boulder Counties Between 6000 and 9000 Feet-
Jefferson and West Douglas Counties Above 6000 Feet/Gilpin/Clear
Creek/Northeast Park Counties Below 9000 Feet-
Including Estes Park, Glendevey, Nederland, Red Feather Lakes,
Bailey, Central City, Evergreen, Georgetown, Idaho Springs,
and Westcreek
228 PM MST Tue Jan 19 2021

…HIGH WIND WARNING IN EFFECT FROM 2 AM TO 5 PM MST WEDNESDAY…

* WHAT…West winds 35 to 45 mph with gusts up to 75 mph
expected.

* WHERE…The Northern Front Range Foothills and The Southern
Front Range Foothills.

* WHEN…From 2 AM to 5 PM MST Wednesday.

* IMPACTS…Strong winds will blow unsecured objects around. Tree
limbs could be blown down and a few power outages may result.
Travel will be difficult for high profile vehicles. Strong winds
will also causes areas of blowing snow.

PRECAUTIONARY/PREPAREDNESS ACTIONS…

Strong winds may lead to property damage. Hazardous driving
conditions due to powerful cross winds will pose a serious risk
for drivers, especially for light weight and high profile
vehicles. Loose outdoor items should be brought inside or secured
properly.

Kerry Webster #6565
Senior Firefighter
BCSO Fire Management
kwebster@nullbouldercounty.org
Office: (303) 441-1466
Cell: (720) 415-6686

GOLD HILL FIRE PROTECTION DISTRICT
BOARD OF DIRECTORS ZOOM AGENDA
JANUARY 19, 2021 7:00 PM

Join Zoom Meeting
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CALL TO ORDER
ATTENDANCE
APPROVAL OF MINUTES
FIRE CHIEF’S REPORT
TRAINING REPORTS/RECRUITMENT
MAINTENANCE
EQUIPMENT
OTHER BUSINESS

Temporary electricity for food pantry:
Boyd .
Forest Restoration Projects:
● Chris D and Kent will be meeting with Maya MacHammer
Grants:
● Kris Gibson, Marcus Moench, Chris D and Kent are working on looking at immediate/short term grants to provide legitimacy for department grant requests in the future.

WiFi for Fire Barn:
● Marcus Moench.

Arc Gis:
● Arc GIS, structure protection. Technology and mapping. Chris D.,
● This group will be working with Emma in the next few weeks to begin trials and practice using the application.

Topic: Special Town Meeting: Community Center – see below for information
Time: Jan 25, 2021 07:00 PM Mountain Time (US and Canada)

Join Zoom Meeting
https://us02web.zoom.us/j/81912512782?pwd=Q1hkSFVMZnVVanFESXpTSENjV0s0QT09

Meeting ID: 819 1251 2782
Passcode: 883568
One tap mobile
+16699006833,,81912512782#,,,,*883568# US (San Jose)
+12532158782,,81912512782#,,,,*883568# US (Tacoma)Potential group announcement to the town about 900 Pine Street – 1-7-21

Just to highlight – we do have a dial in option now that we have the Town Zoom account! Those who can’t video chat can call in. Let your neighbors know who do not have internet

Opportunity to Establish a Community Center

Serious efforts have been made over the years to create an accessible community center in Gold Hill that meets the range of functions the community would like support. Whether it be in discussions around the recent energy study or the personal conversations we’ve all had, many people in town think a community center would be a great addition. It could complement the store and inn, serve as a base for responding to emergencies/disasters, enable community events, provide a location for yoga, childcare or remote work. The possibilities are endless. The main problem in actualizing this has been the absence of a piece of land and space that could really work.

In order to reinvigorate this, a group of Gold Hill residents (for convenience we’re calling ourselves the “Friends of Gold Hill Community Center.”) have purchased the historical house at 900 Pine Street with the hope that it can ultimately be bought by the town as a community center. This was a spontaneous response to the opportunity. We found out it was available and that, if we could buy it before the end of the year, we could purchase it for a little under its assessed valuation. We managed to put it together quickly because it seemed to offer many possibilities to the town. Plus, if the town chose not to pursue acquiring this property, it seemed a safe bet that we could put it in better condition and sell it. Either way Gold Hill would be better off! We are not interested in making a profit from the town, but just to cover our investment.

We look forward to discussions with the Gold Hill Town Meeting and anyone else who is interested over the coming months around the community center opportunity! We envision a number of ways that the town could raise sufficient funds to purchase the place and we’re more than happy to assist through innovative financing arrangements and fundraising efforts! That said, there is no obligation for the town and all the details involved in any possible purchase by the town remain to be worked out.

We look forward to this special meeting on January 25 where we’ll be able to present more information, ideas, and details, answer questions, and begin to explore if there is sufficient interest to pursue this property for Gold Hill.

Looking forward to discussing this opportunity! We hope everyone finds it as exciting as we do!

Friends of the Gold Hill Community Center

Unofficial Gold Hill carolers (masked and socially distanced) will be in your neighborhood on Christmas Eve from 4-5 PM. Keep your eyes and ears peeled!

Thanks!
Val Crist
vjcrist@nullhotmail.com

Agenda and link for Tuesday’s Zoom meeting of the GHFPD Fire Board, 7:00 p.m.December 15, 2020.

Richard Lopez is inviting you to a scheduled Zoom meeting.

Join Zoom Meeting
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Meeting ID: 825 8365 5191
Passcode: 972161
One tap mobile
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Dial by your location
+1 346 248 7799 US (Houston)
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+1 646 876 9923 US (New York)
+1 301 715 8592 US (Washington D.C)
Meeting ID: 825 8365 5191
Passcode: 972161
Find your local number: https://us02web.zoom.us/u/kBWy82INd

GOLD HILL FIRE PROTECTION DISTRICT
BOARD OF DIRECTORS ZOOM AGENDA
DECEMBER 15, 2020 7:00 PM

CALL TO ORDER
ATTENDANCE
APPROVAL OF MINUTES
FIRE CHIEF’S REPORT
TRAINING REPORTS/RECRUITMENT
MAINTENANCE
EQUIPMENT
OTHER BUSINESS

Temporary electricity for food pantry:
Boyd or Emma can explain why power is needed for the food pantry. The discussion at the November meeting should be updated.

Forest Restoration Projects:
● Chris D and Kent will be meeting with Maya MacHammer the week of December 14 to identify strategic areas that would be beneficial from a fire suppression standpoint. In addition, we will need to start looking at ways we can reach out to the community to educate and address concerns that may come up this Spring regarding burning piles in Spring 2022.

Grants:
● Marcus Moench, Kris Gibson, Chris D and Kent are working on looking at immediate/short term grants to provide legitimacy for department grant requests in the future. In addition, they are looking to create an overall strategic document based on a previous document that Kris Gibson created which will help with applying to grants. This document will entail town history, role of the department, role of other departments, social and political landscape, hazards, changes in landscape, changes in funding, town goals, town buy in, etc. Kent and Chris D recommend looking at creating or expanding a grant subcommittee which would take on these tasks.

WiFi for Fire Barn:
● Marcus Moench is currently working on possibly using fiber from the school’s wifi to expand service which would provide a range of wifi that would reach the fire barn.

Possible 2020 Projects: New Technologies:
● Emma Dirolf is working with Chris D, Kent, and Dwight Debroux (Whitey, a new volunteer with Gold Hill Fire) to provide them training and login credentials for using Arc GIS online for a collector app used for structure protection. This project will require the purchase of iPad for conducting structure protection mapping in the district. Emma Dirolf is also working on looking for grant money for that with Chris D. The intent of this project is to introduce new technologies which would allow volunteers to have access to important information regarding structures in the district and the surrounding landscape which would increase personnel safety, quicken incident responses, and provide a higher level of service.
● This group will be working with Emma in the next few weeks to begin trials and practice using the application.

—
Lopez Law Office
4450 Arapahoe Ave #100
Boulder, CO 80303
303 415 2585 phone
303 415 0932 fax
lopezlawofficeco@nullgmail.com

Gold Hill Town Meeting
Monday, 7:00 p.m. December 14th, 2020
____________________________________________________________________________

Zoom Virtual Meeting
This is a 40-minute meeting. The link and login information for three back-to-back meetings are the same.

Topic: Gold Hill Town Meeting 1 Zoom Meeting
Time: Dec 14, 2020, 07:00 PM Mountain Time (US and Canada)
Join Zoom Meeting
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Meeting ID: 725 3288 1502
Passcode: NBi30M

Topic: Gold Hill Town Meeting 2 Zoom Meeting
Time: Dec 14, 2020, 07:40 PM Mountain Time (US and Canada)
Join Zoom Meeting
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Meeting ID: 741 6973 0386
Passcode: HXs6Zh

Topic: Gold Hill Town Meeting 3 Zoom Meeting
Time: Dec 14, 2020, 08:20 PM Mountain Time (US and Canada)
Join Zoom Meeting
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Meeting ID: 734 8595 3111
Passcode: BAxn9Q
____________________________________________________________

1. Review of Previous Minutes (any additions or corrections)
2. Mountain Stewards – 7:10
o Gold Hill Resilient Renewable Energy Design Project and Feasibility Study – Sarah
3. Treasurer’s Report
4. Committee Reports
o Mountain Stewards
 Bee Safe Neighborhood
1. This program is now being sponsored through The People’s Bees https://www.thepeoplesbees.com
2. 75 Addresses must commit to either:
a. Level One Pledge: I will not use any insecticide products that include neonicotinoids or systemic poisons on my property.
b. Level Two Pledge: I will not use any insecticide products whatsoever on my property.
c. Level Three Pledge: I will not use any insecticide products whatsoever on my property, and will plant nectar- and pollen-rich flowers to feed the local bees.
3. They register online at https://www.thepeoplesbees.com/pledge
. Coordinator: Chrissy Maedke
a. More information: http://www.livingsystemsinst.org/sites/default/files/project_files/BeeBrochureMay2014.pdf
o Forestry and Forest Management
o Gold Hill School
o Museum
o Community Planning and Fundraising
o Cemetery
o Community Center
o SafeLink/NeighborLink
o AirLink
o Emergency Preparedness/Communications
o Weed Management
o Historical Zoning
o Food Pantry
 Electricity for fridge/freezer
o Fire Department
5. Approval of Non-Discrimination Statement (Finalize)
o The Gold Hill Town Meeting, Inc., does not and shall not discriminate on the basis of race, color, religion (creed), gender expression, age, citizenship status, national origin (ancestry), disability, marital status, sexual orientation, political affiliation or military status, in any of its activities or operations. These activities include, but are not limited to, election of Town Council members, participation by any members of the Town Meeting area, selection of volunteers or vendors, or potential hiring and firing of any staff. We are committed to providing an inclusive and welcoming environment for all members of the Gold Hill Town Meeting, Inc., its partners, guests and attendees, volunteers, subcontractors and vendors.

6. Other Town News:
7. Upcoming Meetings/Events – Next Gold Hill Town Meeting: February 8th, 7:00 pm

Minutes of the November 9, 2020, Communications Meeting by Zoom

Next Meeting November 30th

Topic: Emergency Preparedness/Communications – Zoom Meeting
Time: Nov 30, 2020 05:00 PM Mountain Time (US and Canada)

PART 1: Join Zoom Meeting
https://us04web.zoom.us/j/71624039060?pwd=dHFtZ2tDTm9yKzJRNjY5VWtwdDlvUT09

Meeting ID: 716 2403 9060
Passcode: dTqw94

Time: Nov 30, 2020 05:41 PM Mountain Time (US and Canada)

PART 2: Join Zoom Meeting
https://us04web.zoom.us/j/73659254744?pwd=VGdZZlNrZHpoNUp4VkRkZWQySUFSUT09

Meeting ID: 736 5925 4744
Passcode: 2uJFUH

GHTM Chair Emma Dirolf called the meeting to order. Seventeen people signed in: Emma, Dina Elder, Joanne Cole, Gretchen Diefenderfer, Emily Rose, Paul Roberts, Virginia Schultz, Clare Tone, Bear Carlson, Poppy Copeland, Val Crist, Marcus Moench, Elisabeth Caspari, Leslie Finn, Erich Gundlach, Dana Delaville, and Mercury Roberts.

Val summarized the minutes of the last communications meeting on October 20.

Emergency Communications – Erich raised the issue of a lack of up-to-date emergency information available through the Office of Emergency Management (OEM) during our latest fires. It seemed as though we had much more complete information in past emergencies. He wondered if there was some kind of breakdown between the OEM and the Sheriff’s Office. Dina agreed that there seemed to be a problem in getting information out. AirLink (our Ham radio group) is in direct communication with the OEM, but the question is how to effectively get the information out to the community. Emma pointed out that this is the reason to facilitate these meetings. People have all kinds of different means/levels of communication. When we’re worried about our neighbors getting evacuation and pre-evacuation notifications, we did spontaneously reach out to each other and it worked.
Marcus added that their Emergency Preparedness Group did a lot of brainstorming on this. The emergency word did get out well, but good cell phone coverage in town is regarded as important by many. Hams will help, but will not solve the problem.
Paul added that it’s important to have a good sense of our neighbors. People connect in different ways. In Nederland, their Facebook page is a great source of information and kept very current by the town administrator.
Dina talked up more people becoming Hams. With every event, more people become Hams, but we really need to get them engaged and stay engaged. The Hams in Nederland have a Radio Club. They can get little radios, buying in bulk, that they will program for us, and they are only $20. These are for listening only. If you are not licensed, you cannot transmit. During fires, we have Hams on our fire department and Dave Sturtz will update us as he is able. She said there is a learning aspect, but there is a lot of training online. The only cost to become a Ham is a $15 fee to take the test. She will get the information out in a town email about how to become a licensed Ham. It’s useful to study the material and go through the practice tests online to be prepared for the test. Bear confessed that he is licensed, but he doesn’t participate. He took his radio (don’t forget your charger) while evacuated, got connected to AirLink, and it was very useful. In answer to questions about how far the Ham radios reach, Dina added that we reach quite a long way although there are dead spots.
Emma was at Incident Command and it was super busy with so many fires.
Val asked about NeighborLink (NL) and the Four Compass Point Contact People (Dina out west of town, Gretchen in East Gold Hill, Paul in the Subdivision/South, and Deb Yeager in old town/North. She wondered if that’s all good. Virginia was out of town for the fire, and Val took over and called people. Marcus reported that NL had a meeting on the 26th and, no, we do not have it all together. There is a structure, but it’s hard to sustain it and we’re working on revising it and simplifying it. We need multiple avenues to get information like evacuation notifications out to everyone. And we really need to have relationships with our neighbors, with whom we can share as much information as we wish. In emergencies, there needs to be a contact person in your neighbor group, who will get out the information to others in their group. We were notified the day before the evacuation that we were in the fire area and then, the day of the evac., the pre-evacuation notice came through on Everbridge (the County reverse 9-1-1 system – sign up at the OEM: boulderoem.com) only about 10 minutes before the actual evac. notification.
Dina again pointed out that when the electricity goes out, we have no phones, power, or cell phones. Gretchen advised that it’s a good idea to get a phone that doesn’t need electricity in order to work (an old rotary dial phone, for instance), because we usually have phone lines, at least for a while, even if the electricity is out. Emily added that she has one and uses it for those times. Clare bought a new one at Home Depot.
The question of how to heighten awareness of fire danger, etc., and preparation needed for new people was raised.
Marcus added that encouraging more Hams, and getting the $20 radios in more hands is great, but still thinks that cell coverage is important, because cell phones are something that most people have with them all the time, and it would be hugely useful – possibly a cell tower or at least town WiFi. Leslie thinks that increased cell phone reliability would be great.
Emma said there seems to be a lot of interest in Ham radios, so we need to get information out to people about that. We also need to continue with data collection for points of contact. She thinks the idea of a laminated information card that people can put on their doors to let people who are going door to door know that they have evacuated, etc. The Sheriffs still have to do due diligence, but this would help them. So, she summarized that for evacuations, it seems that first we use phones, then Hams, then emails, and the town website. Once we have evacuated the website (goldhilltown.com) is useful to keep us in contact and up to date. We need to get information on there from multiple sources. There are people interested in how to get information out in multiple ways. When she was working at Incident Command, it was very intense with so many fires and the conditions changing rapidly.
Emma said that plans raised include; continued work on NeighborLink, updating the emergency information on the website, getting more Hams. Marcus added that we need real proactive outreach to people to let them know how to connect to their neighbor groups, about the website, and the town email list.

We will meet again on November 30th by Zoom

Respectfully submitted, Gretchen