2015
2015 Newsletter
January Meeting Schedule:
Thursday, January 8, 2015 Planning Commission Meeting @ 6:00pm @ Town Hall
Monday, January 12, 2015 Finance Meeting @ 3:30pm @ Town Hall
Tuesday, January 20, 2015 Board of Trustees Meeting @ 6:00pm @ Town Hall
The Weld County Regional Communications Center launched a new high-speed emergency notification system called CodeRED. The new system was activated on Saturday, November 15, 2014. This system will replace the existing reverse notification system used to alert county residents of emergencies. The CodeRED system will also offer new features to subscribers including free weather notifications via text or email. Please visit www.weld911alert.com to register for this service. If you were registered for the previous alert system your information will be transferred; but please visit their website to verify your information is accurate.
All property owners with mineral rights should have received an oil and gas lease from Noble Energy. Nobel has set up two meeting times to answer any questions that property owners may have. They have scheduled these information sessions for Tuesday, January 20, 2015 at the American Legion from 4:00—7:00 p.m., and on Saturday, January 24, 2015 from 9:30 a.m.—11:30 a.m. Please contact Nobel at 1-844-224-0347 if you have any questions.
Wild Country RV Park is planning to open on January 5, 2015 with 40 sites. Welcome them as they continue construction to complete their project.
“We spend January 1st walking through our lives, room by room, drawing up a list of work to be done, cracks to be patched. Maybe this year, to balance the list, we ought to walk through the rooms of our lives...not looking for flaws, but for potential.” (Ellen Goodman)
Public Works Report
We have been working with BNSF to get the crossing on the West side of town fixed. Unfortunately during the crossing repair the sidewalks were damaged. We have been working with BNSF to get this issue resolved, but due to the time of year there will be a delay in the work.
The park is an area of pride for our staff and we work hard to maintain it for everybody. Over the last couple of months we have had vandalism at the park. All the new trees that were planted last year were broken at the base. We also have had bottles broken and graffiti at the gazebo areas. If anyone sees any suspicious activity at the park please contact the town or the authorities.
Thank you!
February Meeting Schedule:
Thursday, February 5, 2015 Planning Commission Meeting Cancelled
Monday, February 9, 2015 Finance Meeting @ 3:30pm @ Town Hall
Tuesday, February 17, 2015 Board of Trustees Meeting @ 6:00pm @ Town Hall
Town Hall will be closed on Monday, February 16, 2015 in observance of Presidents’ Day.
All property owners with mineral rights should have received an oil and gas lease from Noble Energy. Please contact Nobel at 1-844-224-0347 if you have any questions.
Wild Country RV Park opened on January 8, 2015 with 10 spots; they now have a total of 25 spots open. Welcome them as they continue construction to complete their project.
The annual Easter Egg Hunt will be held on April 4, 2015 starting at 11:00am for children ages 0-11 years old. It will take place at Schey Park. This is a rain or shine event! Please plan to attend, bring your own basket and enjoy the festivities!! As we get closer to the event please check the town’s website, www.townofkeenesburg.com, for updated information.
When you are in love you can’t fall asleep because reality is finally better than your dreams. - Dr. Suess. Happy Valentine’s Day
Public Works Report
There were two water line leaks, in early January, which had to be repaired in town. Once the weather warms up, we will repair the asphalt.
We have been working with BNSF to get the sidewalks on both sides of the West crossing repaired. There was damage to the sidewalk during the repair of the crossing.
The town will be receiving two new purchases. We have purchased a new CNG work truck. It was purchased from a state program. The program pays for 83% of the cost of the vehicle. We have also purchased a new tractor to replace the old yellow John Deere that the town has had for 30 years.
Thank you!
March Meeting Schedule:
Thursday, March 5, 2015 Planning Commission Meeting @6:00pm @ Town Hall
Monday, March 9, 2015 Finance Meeting @ 3:30pm @ Town Hall
Monday, March 16, 2015 Board of Trustees Meeting @ 6:00pm @ Town Hall
The Town of Keenesburg is seeking a full time public works employee. Experience with water, wastewater, streets, parks, and equipment maintenance is desirable, must be able to operate a variety of equipment. Valid driver’s license and self-motivation is a must. Compensation to be determined based upon experience and qualifications. Employment applications may be obtained on our website www.townofkeenesburg.com and may be submitted either via email to keenesburgclerk@rtebb.net or fax 303-732-0599, or in person at 140 S. Main St, Keenesburg, CO 80643, or by mail at Town of Keenesburg, Attn: Town Clerk, PO Box 312, Keenesburg, CO 80643. Applications must be received by 12:00pm, Friday, March 6, 2015. Please include a resume and cover letter with your application. The Town of Keenesburg is an equal opportunity employer.
In August of 2014 Marc Johns, public works director, was evaluating Schey Park, and planning for maintenance when he and his team noticed that the sign was looking rather shabby. He did some research, and decided to reach out to the local school for some help. This conversation led to a new partnership when Mr. Wingard offered to incorporate our needs into his woodworking class. Mr. Wingard selected Brody Toman to work on a design for the new sign; the park committee then reviewed the new design and gave it a thumbs up. I was however soon evident that this project would require more than one student in order to get this sign out the door in a timely manner which is when Cade Hoffman came on board. Brody and Cade have proudly been working on this new creation, and after a visit last week we can definitely say that the project is moving along nicely. Soon the residents of Keenesburg will not only be able to enjoy our beautiful park, but please take the time to take notice of the new sign once it is erected, and if you know Brody and Cade give them a pat on the back for their efforts on behalf of the Town. The sign is expected to be completed near the end of May. The Town of Keenesburg is excited about this partnership and hopes to incorporate our local talent in other projects.
The annual rabies clinic will be held on April 25, 2015 from 10:00am-12:00pm at the Town Shop, 400 S Lambert St. Every dog within Town Limits must be licensed. In order to license your dog you must provide proof of rabies, distemper and parvo vaccinations.
Wild Country RV Park opened on January 8, 2015. It is located at 29521 WCR 398. For information or reservations please call 303-961-0031.
The Town of Keenesburg invites all to attend the annual Easter Egg Hunt on April 4, 2015 at 11:00am. It will take place at Schey Park. This is a rain or shine event! Please plan to attend, bring your own basket and enjoy the festivities!!
The Town Of Keenesburg is now accepting sealed bids for a 2001 Dodge Ram 2500 4-wheel drive pickup with a tool box and snow plow hardware with 131,864 miles. The minimum bid is $2,000.00. Bids must include full name, address, and phone number.
Please send bids to: Town Clerk
Town of Keenesburg
P.O. Box 312
Keenesburg, CO 80643
Or place in drop box at 140 South Main Street, Keenesburg, CO 80643 (located on North Side of Building)
Bids must be received by 12:00 p.m. on April 15, 2015. Winning bidder will be notified by phone and mail immediately.
Public Works Report
With the end of February bringing snow, a friendly reminder that we will do our best to keep things clear. Assistance with keeping cars off the busy streets and contacting the town with any concerns in regards to snow removal is appreciated.
Thank you!
April Meeting Schedule:
Thursday, April 2, 2015 Planning Commission Meeting @6:00pm @ Town Hall
Monday, April 13, 2015 Finance Meeting @ 3:30pm @ Town Hall
Monday, April 20, 2015 Board of Trustees Meeting @ 6:00pm @ Town Hall
In August of 2014 Marc Johns, public works director, was evaluating Schey Park, and planning for maintenance when he and his team noticed that the sign was looking rather shabby. He did some research, and decided to reach out to the local school for some help. This conversation led to a new partnership when Mr. Wingard offered to incorporate our needs into his woodworking class. Mr. Wingard selected Brody Toman to work on a design for the new sign; the park committee then reviewed the new design and gave it a thumbs up. I was however soon evident that this project would require more than one student in order to get this sign out the door in a timely manner which is when Cade Hoffman came on board. Brody and Cade have proudly been working on this new creation, and after a visit last week we can definitely say that the project is moving along nicely. Soon the residents of Keenesburg will not only be able to enjoy our beautiful park, but please take the time to take notice of the new sign once it is erected, and if you know Brody and Cade give them a pat on the back for their efforts on behalf of the Town. The sign is expected to be completed near the end of May. The Town of Keenesburg is excited about this partnership and hopes to incorporate our local talent in other projects.
****On Saturday, April 11, 2015 at 10:00am Weld County will be conducting a test of the siren warning system.****
The annual rabies clinic will be held on April 25, 2015 from 10:00am-12:00pm at the Town Shop, 400 S Lambert St. Every dog within Town Limits must be licensed. In order to license your dog you must provide proof of rabies, distemper and parvo vaccinations.
The Town of Keenesburg will be having its annual Town Clean Up Day on Saturday, June 6, 2015 8:00am-1:00pm. Please take your items to Buffalo Ridge Landfill located at 11655 WCR 59. Residents will need to have a copy of their water bill or a letter verifying their residency to participate. Residents will be allowed two dumps at the landfill. Please contact Buffalo Ridge if you have specific questions in regard to what they will accept at 303-732-0218. Please take this opportunity to look around your yard and haul away any unwanted debris.
Wild Country RV Park opened on January 8, 2015. It is located at 29521 WCR 398. For information or reservations please call 303-961-0031.
The Town Of Keenesburg is now accepting sealed bids for a 2001 Dodge Ram 2500 4-wheel drive pickup with tool box and snow plow hardware with 131,864 miles. The minimum bid is $2,000.00. Bids must include full name, address, and phone number.
Please send bids to: Town Clerk
Town of Keenesburg
P.O. Box 312
Keenesburg, CO 80643
Or place in drop box at 140 South Main Street, Keenesburg, CO 80643 (located on North Side of Building)
Bids must be received by 12:00 p.m. on April 15, 2015. Winning bidder will be notified by phone and mail immediately.
Public Works Report
Spring has arrived and with that the public works team will begin patching holes throughout town. Because safety of our workers is important, please be cautious when approaching a work area. The restroom at Schey Park will open the first week of April.
We wish to thank the school district for their generous donation of the new soccer goals at the park! Please assist us in keeping the park clean and safe, and make sure to deposit debris and trash in the receptacles, and report any vandalism to town hall.
Thank you!
May Meeting Schedule:
Thursday, May 7, 2015 Planning Commission Meeting @6:00pm @ Town Hall
Monday, May 11, 2015 Finance Meeting @ 3:30pm @ Town Hall
Monday, May 18, 2015 Board of Trustees Meeting @ 6:00pm @ Town Hall
The Town of Keenesburg will be having its annual Town Clean Up Day on Saturday, June 6, 2015 from 8:00am-1:00pm. Please take your items to Buffalo Ridge Landfill located at 11655 WCR 59. Residents will need to have a copy of their water bill or a letter verifying their residency to participate. Residents will be allowed two dumps at the landfill. Please contact Buffalo Ridge if you have specific questions in regard to what they will accept at 303-732-0218. We invite you to take this opportunity to look around your yard and discard any unwanted items.
Spring is here; and with all the rain and warm weather comes the weeds. As a friendly reminder please keep all areas surrounding your homes mowed and trimmed.
Dog licenses expire annually on May 31st . Please bring in your dog’s vaccination record to obtain a license for your dog(s). Please be aware that you will need to show proof of rabies, distemper, and parvo shots to license your dog(s). The license fee is $5.00 per dog. If you have any questions please feel free to contact Town Hall.
The Wild Animal Sanctuary will be hosting it’s annual Into The Wild Run/Running Festival on June 6-7, 2015. For more information or to register please visit runtintothewild.org.
Public Works Report
Spring has arrived and with that the public works team will begin patching holes throughout town. Because safety of our workers is important, please be cautious when approaching a work area.
Please make sure that if you are bringing your pets to the park that you are cleaning up after them. The park is an area where kids enjoy running around barefoot as well as laying down in the grass. Let’s keep it enjoyable for everybody.
With the April showers upon us public works will be working hard to keep County Road 16 in good shape. Depending on the amount of rain we receive, the road does need to dry out before we can blade it.
Thank you!
June Meeting Schedule:
Thursday, June 4, 2015 Planning Commission Meeting @6:00pm @ Town Hall
Monday, June 8, 2015 Finance Meeting @ 3:30pm @ Town Hall
Monday, June 15, 2015 Board of Trustees Meeting @ 6:00pm @ Town Hall
The Town of Keenesburg will be having its annual Town Clean Up Day on Saturday, June 6, 2015 from 8:00am-1:00pm. Please take your items to Buffalo Ridge Landfill located at 11655 WCR 59. Residents will need to have a copy of their water bill or a letter verifying their residency to participate. Residents will be allowed two dumps at the landfill. Please contact Buffalo Ridge if you have specific questions in regard to what they will accept at 303-732-0218. We invite you to take this opportunity to look around your yard and discard any unwanted items.
Spring is here; and with all the rain and warm weather comes the weeds. As a friendly reminder please keep all areas surrounding your homes mowed and trimmed.
The Keenesburg Area Chamber of Commerce, Southeast Weld County Fire District and the Town of Keenesburg are sponsoring a Business Expo and fireworks display that will be held on July 3, 2015 from 6:00pm-9:00pm at the Southeast Weld County Fairgrounds located at 7758 WCR 59. There will be vendors, food, entertainment and children’s activities. The fireworks display will begin at dusk. Please plan to attend this community event; there will be fun for all. Booths are still available, for more information please contact Ken Gfeller 303-732-9257.
Dog licenses expire annually on May 31st. Please bring in your dog’s vaccination record to obtain a license for your dog(s).
Please be aware that you will need to show proof of rabies, distemper, and parvo shots to license your dog(s). The license fee is $5.00 per dog. If you have any questions please feel free to contact Town Hall.
The I-76 Economic Development Group, and Upstate Colorado held an Imagination Bus Tour on Thursday, May 28, 2015. The Towns of Keenesburg, Hudson, and Lochbuie all had representatives on the buses to highlight areas in the towns that were available and ready for development. The participation was exceptional, bringing approximately 100 developers, realtors, contractors, investors, and site selectors through the three towns to showcase the available opportunities that are available along the I-76 corridor. A luncheon was held at the Wild Animal Sanctuary following the tour. This successful venture will likely become an annual event for the I-76 Economic Development Group.
The Wild Animal Sanctuary will be hosting it’s annual Into The Wild Run/Running Festival on June 6-7, 2015. For more information or to register please visit runtintothewild.org.
The High Plains Library Bookmobile will be available on Thursdays throughout the summer at Schey Park. They will be at the park on June 4 and 18, July 2 and 16, and August 6 from 12:30pm to 2:00pm.
Public Works Report
Public works will be starting the annual water valve exercise program. Because safety of our workers is important, please be cautious when approaching a work area.
Please make sure that if you are bringing your pets to the park that you are cleaning up after them. The park is an area that kids enjoy running around barefoot as well as laying down in the grass. Let’s keep it enjoyable for everybody.
Thank you!
July Meeting Schedule:
Thursday, July 2, 2015 Planning Commission Meeting @6:00pm @ Town Hall
Monday, July 6, 2015 Board of Trustees Meeting @ 6:00pm @ Town Hall
Monday, July 13, 2015 Finance Meeting @ 3:30pm @ Town Hall
Monday, July 20, 2015 Board of Trustees Meeting @ 6:00pm @ Town Hall
The I-76 Economic Development Group, and Upstate Colorado held an Imagination Bus Tour on Thursday, May 28, 2015. The Towns of Keenesburg, Hudson, and Lochbuie all had representatives on the buses to highlight areas in the towns that were available and ready for development. The participation was exceptional, bringing approximately 100 developers, realtors, contractors, investors, and site selectors through the three towns to showcase the available opportunities that are available along the I-76 corridor. A luncheon was held at the Wild Animal Sanctuary following the tour. This successful venture will likely become an annual event for the I-76 Economic Development Group.
The Town of Keenesburg is busily working on plans for several projects that we plan to have completed by the end of this year. First, we applied for a grant through the Colorado Department of Local Affairs and the town was awarded a grant in the amount of $195,839.00 to assist us in the installation of a new 250,000 gallon water storage tank just south of town located at the town’s blending facility. Once the grant contracts are signed we will be underway and issuing requests for bids for the installation of a glass lined tank. Next, we are looking at completing the waterline along CR 59 from Woodward to the town’s property just south of CR 14. This water line extension will give many residents along CR 59 the opportunity to purchase taps and have municipal water, this will also provide a more sustainable water source for the Weld Central Complex. And finally, we have been in the planning stages for a street project this year. We have evaluated all of the streets and formulated a plan to try to address the streets that need attention the most. We plan to use the street bond money in three different ways, some streets will be milled and overlaid, some will be chip sealed and a few will be total replacement. We had decided on a phased approach to get some of this work done this year, however when we recently sent out requests for bids, although it was sent to 12 different contractors we did not receive any response at the pre-bid meeting. We are currently looking at a purchasing website to get our request for bid out to as many contractors as possible. Due to the fact that no contractors responded to our initial request for bids we may end up delaying this project until next year and spending all of the bond money at once on one big project. We unfortunately will not be able to address all of the streets because we simply do not have enough money for a project of that size, but we will stretch the money that we have as far as we can. Please feel free to contact Town Hall with any questions.
The Town of Keenesburg has completed a water and sewer rate study in order to identify needed improvements to the system and how to complete those upgrades. We have developed a 20 year capital improvement plan, and based upon this study have made the determination that our rate structure needs to be changed and that our rates need to increase. The sewer rates have always been a flat rate, this structure will be changing. Effective October 1, 2015, we will look at everyone’s water use over the winter months of December, January, and February, calculate an average usage, and whatever that usage is that will be the billed usage for each resident through June of each year. The rate will include a base fee of $11.00, and a fee of $5.45 per 1000 gallons of usage. As an example if you average 6,000 gallons of water usage your bill would be $43.70 per month for sewer, and if you average 4,500 gallons of water usage your bill would be $35.52 per month. This structure is used by many municipalities because it reflects a more equitable way to calculate the sewer fee in that each residence will be charged for their contribution to the wastewater treatment plant, and the reason that the winter months are used to calculate this fee is because during the summer months many residents water their lawns, and this is not water that is making its way back to the treatment facility.
The water rates will use the same usage structure that is currently in place, with each level increasing as follows:
Current Rate Proposed increase Oct 1
0-6000 $27 $29.16
6001-10000 $2.25/1000 $2.43/1000
1001-20000 $3.25/1000 $3.51/1000
20001-40000 $4.00/1000 $4.32/1000
40001-60000 $5.00/1000 $5.40/1000
60001 up $6.00/1000 $6.48/1000
As an example if you used 15000 gallons of water the current rate would be $52.25, under the proposed rate increase your new bill would be $56.43.
The American Legion Post Jr Auxiliary will be hosting a monthly dinner to raise money to attend National Convention’s throughout the year. The dinners will be held on the second Friday of every month from 6:00pm – 8:00pm at The American Legion Post 180, 595 Railroad Ave Keenesburg. The cost for the dinner will be $8.00 per plate and will include full meal and desert. The dinners will be homemade and will vary each month. For more information and a full schedule please check their Facebook page http://www.facebook.com/alajuniors180.
Relay for life of southern weld county will be hosting an event on Saturday, July 11, 2015 from 12:00pm to 10:00pm. There will be a car, truck and tractor show from 10:00am-2:00pm with a $25 donation for entry. Both events will take place at Weld Central High School. For more information please visit their website www.southernweldrelay.com.
The High Plains Library Bookmobile will be available on Thursdays throughout the summer at Schey Park. They will be at the park on July 2 and 16, and August 6 from 12:30pm to 2:00pm.
The annual South East Weld County Fair and Rodeo will be held from August 13-16, 2015. The theme for the Fair is Preserve the Past Plan the Future. The parade will take place on Saturday, August 15, 2015 starting at 8:30am. For a full list of events please visit their website at www.sewcfair.com
The Sunflower Nationals Car Show will be held on Saturday, August 15, 2015 from 9:00am-3:00pm at Schey Park. There will be duck races and prize drawings. For vendor and registration information please call 303-536-4400 or 303-458-1546.
South East Weld Days will be held on August 15, 2015 at the South East Weld County Fair Grounds. There will be vendors available from 12:00pm-4:00pm, a beer garden from 12:00pm-8:00pm, antique tractor pulls from 7:00pm to close and antique tractors on display all day. This event is sponsored by the Keenesburg Area Chamber of Commerce and The South East Weld Chamber of Commerce. For vendor/event information please call Mark Kinnear 303-732-9700 or Ken Gfeller 303-732-9257.
Public Works Report
With summer upon us, the park is being used on a regular basis. Please make sure that you are cleaning up after yourselves and pets. The park is an area that kids enjoy running around barefoot as well as laying down in the grass. Let’s keep it enjoyable for everybody.
Thank you!
August Meeting Schedule:
Monday, August 3, 2015 Board of Trustees Meeting @ 6:00pm @ Town Hall
Thursday, August 6, 2015 Planning Commission Meeting @6:00pm @ Town Hall
Monday, August 10, 2015 Finance Meeting @ 3:30pm @ Town Hall
Monday, August 17, 2015 Board of Trustees Meeting @ 6:00pm @ Town Hall
The sixth annual End of Summer Town Garage Sale will be held on September 11-13, 2015. Please contact Town Hall if you would like to participate so that your address and the days you will be participating can be listed on the map.
The Town of Keenesburg is busily working on plans for several projects that we plan to have completed by the end of this year. First, we applied for a grant through the Colorado Department of Local Affairs and the town was awarded a grant in the amount of $195,839.00 to assist us in the installation of a new 250,000 gallon water storage tank just south of town located at the town’s blending facility. Once the grant contracts are signed we will be underway and issuing requests for bids for the installation of a glass lined tank. Next, we are looking at completing the waterline along CR 59 from Woodward to the town’s property just south of CR 14. This water line extension will give many residents along CR 59 the opportunity to purchase taps and have municipal water, this will also provide a more sustainable water source for the Weld Central Complex. And finally, we have been in the planning stages for a street project this year. We have evaluated all of the streets and formulated a plan to try to address the streets that need attention the most. We plan to use the street bond money in three different ways, some streets will be milled and overlaid, some will be chip sealed and a few will be total replacement. We had decided on a phased approach to get some of this work done this year, however when we recently sent out requests for bids, although it was sent to 12 different contractors we did not receive any response at the pre-bid meeting. We are currently looking at a purchasing website to get our request for bid out to as many contractors as possible. Due to the fact that no contractors responded to our initial request for bids we may end up delaying this project until next year and spending all of the bond money at once on one big project. We unfortunately will not be able to address all of the streets because we simply do not have enough money for a project of that size, but we will stretch the money that we have as far as we can. Please feel free to contact Town Hall with any questions.
The Town of Keenesburg has completed a water and sewer rate study in order to identify needed improvements to the system and how to complete those upgrades. We have developed a 20 year capital improvement plan, and based upon this study have made the determination that our rate structure needs to be changed and that our rates need to increase. The sewer rates have always been a flat rate, this structure will be changing. Effective October 1, 2015, we will look at everyone’s water use over the winter months of December, January, and February, calculate an average usage, and whatever that usage is that will be the billed usage for each resident through June of each year. The rate will include a base fee of $11.00, and a fee of $5.45 per 1000 gallons of usage. As an example if you average 6,000 gallons of water usage your bill would be $43.70 per month for sewer, and if you average 4,500 gallons of water usage your bill would be $35.52 per month. This structure is used by many municipalities because it reflects a more equitable way to calculate the sewer fee in that each residence will be charged for their contribution to the wastewater treatment plant, and the reason that the winter months are used to calculate this fee is because during the summer months many residents water their lawns, and this is not water that is making its way back to the treatment facility.
The water rates will use the same usage structure that is currently in place, with each level increasing as follows:
Current Rate Proposed increase Oct 1
0-6000 $27 $29.16
6001-10000 $2.25/1000 $2.43/1000
1001-20000 $3.25/1000 $3.51/1000
20001-40000 $4.00/1000 $4.32/1000
40001-60000 $5.00/1000 $5.40/1000
60001 up $6.00/1000 $6.48/1000
As an example if you used 15000 gallons of water the current rate would be $52.25, under the proposed rate increase your new bill would be $56.43.
The American Legion Post Jr Auxiliary will be hosting a monthly dinner to raise money to attend National Convention’s throughout the year. The dinners will be held on the second Friday of every month from 6:00pm – 8:00pm at The American Legion Post 180, 595 Railroad Ave Keenesburg. The cost for the dinner will be $8.00 per plate and will include full meal and desert. The dinners will be homemade and will vary each month. For more information and a full schedule please check their Facebook page http://www.facebook.com/alajuniors180.
The High Plains Library Bookmobile will be available on Thursdays throughout the summer at Schey Park. They will be at the park on August 6 from 12:30pm to 2:00pm.
The annual South East Weld County Fair and Rodeo will be held from August 13-16, 2015. The theme for the Fair is Preserve the Past to Plan for the Future. The parade will take place on Saturday, August 15, 2015 starting at 8:30am. For a full list of events please visit their website at www.sewcfair.com
The Sunflower Nationals Car Show will be held on Saturday, August 15, 2015 from 9:00am-3:00pm at Schey Park. There will be duck races and prize drawings. For vendor and registration information please call 303-536-4400 or 303-458-1546.
South East Weld Days will be held on August 15, 2015 at the South East Weld County Fair Grounds. There will be vendors available from 12:00pm-4:00pm, a beer garden from 12:00pm-8:00pm, antique tractor pulls from 7:00pm to close and antique tractors on display all day. This event is sponsored by the Keenesburg Area Chamber of Commerce and The South East Weld Chamber of Commerce. For vendor/event information please call Mark Kinnear 303-732-9700 or Ken Gfeller 303-732-9257.
Public Works Report
Over the next couple of months the Public Works team will be working on a few projects that will include painting the crosswalks around town, and near the end of the month we will be begin our annual sewer jetting program. Please use caution when driving around the crew.
Thank you!
September Meeting Schedule:
Thursday, September 3, 2015 Planning Commission Meeting @6:00pm @ Town Hall
Monday, September 14, 2015 Finance Meeting @ 3:30pm @ Town Hall
Monday, September 21, 2015 Board of Trustees Meeting @ 6:00pm @ Town Hall
The sixth annual End of Summer Town Garage Sale will be held on September 11-13, 2015. Please contact Town Hall if you would like to participate so that your address and the days you will be participating can be listed on the map.
The Town of Keenesburg is busily working on plans for several projects that we plan to have completed by the end of this year. First, we applied for a grant through the Colorado Department of Local Affairs and the town was awarded a grant in the amount of $195,839.00 to assist us in the installation of a new 250,000 gallon water storage tank just south of town located at the town’s blending facility. The grant contract has been received and has been executed. The Town is now beginning the design phase of this project.
The CR 59 water line bid was posted on Rocky Mountain E-Bid. There were 20 contractors that participated and we received 6 bids. The water line contract was awarded to Aisa Civil Inc in the amount of $284,755.00. This water line extension will give many residents along CR 59 the opportunity to purchase taps and have municipal water, this will also provide a more sustainable water source for the Weld Central Complex.
We are in the planning stages for a street project this year. We have evaluated all of the streets and formulated a plan to try to address the streets that need attention the most. We plan to use the street bond money in three different ways, some streets will be milled and overlaid, some will be chip sealed and a few will be total replacement. We unfortunately will not be able to address all of the streets because we simply do not have enough money for a project of that size, but we will stretch the money that we have as far as we can.
Finally, the Town has applied for an additional grant through the Colorado Department of Local Affairs to replace the AC water line under four of the streets in town. This will begin a phased water line replacement project. Please feel free to contact Town Hall with any questions.
Weld County and all of its jurisdictions recently kicked-off the planning process to update their hazard mitigation plan. For more information about the project and to learn more about hazard mitigation, please visit the project website at http://www.weldhmp2016.com/. The goal of updating the Weld County Hazard Mitigation Plan is to continue to make Weld County more resilient to the hazards that impact us all. Public participation is a valuable part of the planning process, and we value your input. Please take a brief survey at https://www.research.net/r/DP5R9CJ.
The American Legion Post Jr Auxiliary will be hosting a monthly dinner to raise money to attend National Convention’s throughout the year. The dinners will be held on the second Friday of every month from 6:00pm – 8:00pm at The American Legion Post 180, 595 Railroad Ave Keenesburg. The cost for the dinner will be $8.00 per plate and will include full meal and desert. The dinners will be homemade and will vary each month. For more information and a full schedule please check their Facebook page http://www.facebook.com/alajuniors180.
The 5th annual Keene Clinic Fundraiser will be held on September 19, 2015 at the Southeast Weld County Fair Grounds Building. There will be a German Dinner from 4:30pm-6:30pm, a silent auction from 7:00pm-8:00pm, a bake sale that goes on all evening and a Polka Dance Band starting at 8:00pm-10:00pm. Tickets are $15 for adults, $6 for kids 6-11; 5 and under get in free. For questions please call Sally Shuler at 303-532-9669
Public Works Report
Public Works has started their annual sewer jetting program. Some residents may experience some odor as we go through your area. Please note that running a little water down the drain will help control any odor you may experience. This program is important in keeping our sewer system clean and preventing any back up issues.
Thank you!
October Meeting Schedule:
Thursday, October 1, 2015 Planning Commission Meeting Cancelled
Monday, October 12, 2015 Finance Meeting @ 3:30pm @ Town Hall
Monday, October 19, 2015 Board of Trustees Meeting @ 6:00pm @ Town Hall
Monday, October 26, 2015 Board of Trustees and Planning Commission Joint Workshop @ 6:00pm @ Town Hall
As reported earlier this year the Board of Trustees voted unanimously to increase water and sewer rates. There has however been a change in what we had proposed earlier. After further investigation the previous plan for the increase in sewer rates would not yield the needed increase in revenues to accomplish the town’s planned capital expenditures. We therefore decided upon a higher rate structure, the new base rate for sewer will be $26.00, and a fee of $3.15 per 1000 gallons of average winter usage. Due to this change we delayed the effective date of the rate increase to January 1, 2016. The water rates will increase at the same time by 8%. We will be sending out a notice to each resident with the new calculated sewer rate, this notice will be included along with the November water/sewer utility bills. Once you receive your new sewer rate, please contact us if you have any concerns.
The Town of Keenesburg was awarded another grant from the Colorado Department of Local Affairs! The town was awarded approximate $200,000.00 to complete water main replacements in four locations as follows:
Owen Street, from Cedar to Pine
Nelson Street from Pine to Elm
Gandy Street from Pine to Elm
Kipp Street from Stewart to Miller
This project will be incorporated with the Town’s street project in 2016 to replace these streets as well as several overlays and patching of streets yet to be determined. We continue to strive to stretch our taxpayer’s money to achieve the greatest results possible.
The Southeast Weld Fire District Board of Directors will be placing a Mill Levy Increase (4B), as well as a term limit question (4C) on the ballot in the November election. The Southeast Weld Fire Protection District has not had a mill levy increase since 2002, 13 years ago. The district has seen calls skyrocket from 273 in 2006 to over 1000 by the end of 2015. The district is seeking a 2 Mill Levy increase to allow the District to maintain and improve its current service 4 levels, as well as begin to fund selected long-term capital needs, establish resiliency for long-term future economic change, increase safety, ensure staffing of firefighters and shorten emergency response times. For question or further information please contact the Southeast Weld Fire District at 303-732-1028.
Weld County and all of its jurisdictions recently kicked-off the planning process to update their hazard mitigation plan. For more information about the project and to learn more about hazard mitigation, please visit the project website at http://www.weldhmp2016.com/. The goal of updating the Weld County Hazard Mitigation Plan is to continue to make Weld County more resilient to the hazards that impact us all. Public participation is a valuable part of the planning process, and we value your input. Please take a brief survey at https://www.research.net/r/DP5R9CJ.
2015 Weld Project Connect is a one-day event providing FREE on-site services such as medical screenings, flu shots, haircuts, legal help, women’s wellness, mammograms, resume writing/review, veterans assistance and birth certificate copies. If you are need of any of these services be sure to attend this event on Friday, October 16 from 12:00-4:30 p.m. at Island Grove Park in Greeley. They are also in need of volunteers to help with this event for more information please call 2-1-1 or visit weldprojectconnect.org
The American Legion Post Jr Auxiliary will be hosting a monthly dinner to raise money to attend National Convention’s throughout the year. The dinners will be held on the second Friday of every month from 6:00pm – 8:00pm at The American Legion Post 180, 595 Railroad Ave Keenesburg. The cost for the dinner will be $8.00 per plate and will include full meal and desert. The dinners will be homemade and will vary each month. For more information and a full schedule please check their Facebook page http://www.facebook.com/alajuniors180.
Public Works Report
We have been receiving numerous complaints about dogs running at large and off of their leashes. Please remember that the town does have a leash law, and dogs are required to be on a leash at all times. This is for the safety of the residents and we ask that you please adhere to this ordinance and do not allow your dogs to run without a leash through the park or any place else in the town limits.
With winter quickly approaching Public Works will be winterizing the park restrooms on October 1, 2015. They will re-open in April 2016. Thank you all for your help in keeping the park and restrooms clean for everyone.
Thank you!
November Meeting Schedule:
Thursday, November 5, 2015 Planning Commission Meeting @ 6:00pm @ Town Hall
Monday, November 9, 2015 Finance Meeting @ 3:30pm @ Town Hall
Monday, November 16, 2015 Board of Trustees Meeting @ 6:00pm
The Town of Keenesburg town hall and public works will be closed on Wednesday, November 11, 2015 for Veterans Day, as well as Thursday, November 26 and Friday, November 27, 2015 for the Thanksgiving Holiday. The Town of Keenesburg, Mayor, Trustees, and staff wish to extend to you and your families a safe, happy and blessed Thanksgiving holiday.
As reported earlier this year the Board of Trustees voted unanimously to increase water and sewer rates. There has however been a change in what we had proposed earlier. After further investigation the previous plan for the increase in sewer rates would not yield the needed increase in revenues to accomplish the town’s planned capital expenditures. We therefore decided upon a higher rate structure, the new base rate for sewer will be $26.00, and a fee of $3.15 per 1000 gallons of average winter usage. Due to this change we delayed the effective date of the rate increase to January 1, 2016. The water rates will increase at the same time by 8%. We will be sending out a notice to each resident with the new calculated sewer rate, this notice is included along with the November water/sewer utility bills. Once you receive your new sewer rate, please contact us if you have any concerns.
The Town of Keenesburg was awarded another grant from the Colorado Department of Local Affairs! The town was awarded approximately $200,000.00 to complete water main replacements in four locations as follows:
Owen Street, from Cedar to Pine
Nelson Street from Pine to Elm
Gandy Street from Pine to Elm
Kipp Street from Stewart to Miller
This project will be incorporated with the Town’s street project in 2016 to replace these streets as well as several overlays and patching of streets yet to be determined. We continue to strive to stretch our taxpayer’s money to achieve the greatest results possible.
We have received some complaints recently about contractors that residents hired to complete roofs, remodeling, etc. We urge each resident to be cautious and complete your due diligence and get references, check their rating at the better business bureau, and get a signed contract upfront establishing the total amount for the job. Also please bear in mind that legitimate contractors generally do not require any advance payment, and would not expect any payment prior to the completion of a job.
The American Legion Post Jr Auxiliary will be hosting a monthly dinner to raise money to attend National Convention’s throughout the year. The dinners will be held on the second Friday of every month from 6:00pm – 8:00pm at The American Legion Post 180, 595 Railroad Ave Keenesburg. The cost for the dinner will be $8.00 per plate and will include full meal and desert. The dinners will be homemade and will vary each month. For more information and a full schedule please check their Facebook page http://www.facebook.com/alajuniors180.
The Town of Keenesburg will hold municipal elections on Tuesday, April 5, 2016. There are three positions that will be up for election on the Board of Trustees, as well as Mayor. A Town Trustee serves for a four year term, whereas the Mayor serves for a two year term. The Town of Keenesburg has no term limits, and we invite interested residents that would like to contribute their time through public service to consider running for either Trustee or Mayor. We will be holding a candidate training session on Wednesday, December 9, 2015 at 6:00 p.m. at Town Hall, 140 South Main Street, Keenesburg, CO
Public Works Report
With winter around the corner there are some things to be aware of during the snowy cold season. First, when the temperatures fall below freezing please make sure your pets have proper shelter or are brought inside. Second, please be aware that the Keenesburg Municipal Code requires that sidewalks must be cleared within 24 hours of the last snow fall. So, please make sure your snow removal equipment is ready to be put into action. We also ask that those of you who are on a school route please clear your walks as quickly as possible to enable the school children safe passage. Third, if the weather is calling for snow please don’t park your cars on the street it makes it difficult for public works to plow the streets efficiently. Lastly, the restrooms at Schey Park are closed for the winter. Please do not attempt to use the restrooms as they are locked and winterized. The restrooms will reopen in May 2016.
Thank you!
December Meeting Schedule:
Monday, December 7, 2015 Finance Meeting @ 3:30pm @ Town Hall
Thursday, December 10, 2015 Planning Commission Meeting @ 6:00pm @ Town Hall
Monday, December 14, 2015 Board of Trustees Meeting @ 6:00pm
The Town of Keenesburg town hall and public works will be closing at 12:00pm on Friday, December 4, 2015. The Town offices will also be closed on Thursday, December 24 and Friday, December 25, 2015 for the Christmas Holiday as well as Thursday, December 31, 2015 and Friday, January 1, 2016 for the New Year. The Town of Keenesburg, Mayor, Trustees, and staff wish to extend to you and your families a safe, happy and blessed Christmas and New Year.
As reported earlier this year the Board of Trustees voted unanimously to increase water and sewer rates. There has however been a change in what we had proposed earlier. After further investigation the previous plan for the increase in sewer rates would not yield the needed increase in revenues to accomplish the town’s planned capital expenditures. We therefore decided upon a higher rate structure, the new base rate for sewer will be $26.00, and a fee of $3.15 per 1000 gallons of average winter usage. Due to this change we delayed the effective date of the rate increase to January 1, 2016. The water rates will increase at the same time by 8%. We will be sending out a notice to each resident with the new calculated sewer rate, this notice is included along with the November water/sewer utility bills. Once you receive your new sewer rate, please contact us if you have any concerns.
The Town of Keenesburg has been working closely with the Town of Lochbuie to reach an agreement that will enable the Lochbuie Police Department to provide law enforcement services to the Town of Keenesburg. The provisions in the law enforcement agreement with the Weld County Sherriff’s department have changed, and this change has been the driving force for the town to obtain alternative law enforcement services. We are happy to report that we are very close to a contract with Lochbuie, and will likely be starting these services on February 1, 2016. This contract will provide for approximately double the coverage that we previously had with the Sheriff’s department, and will be a positive step for the town, as well as the beginning of a partnership with Lochbuie. Please join us in welcoming this new service and partnership with Lochbuie coming February 1, 2016! In the meantime rest assured that the Weld County Sherriff’s department will continue to provide the town with the services that they have in the past until we make the change in February.
The Town of Keenesburg was awarded another grant from the Colorado Department of Local Affairs! The town was awarded approximately $200,000.00 to complete water main replacements in four locations as follows:
Owen Street, from Cedar to Pine
Nelson Street from Pine to Elm
Gandy Street from Pine to Elm
Kipp Street from Stewart to Miller
This project will be incorporated with the Town’s street project in 2016 to replace these streets as well as several overlays and patching of streets yet to be determined. In addition the town was also awarded an additional $15,000.00 planning grant to video the entire sewer system during 2016, to aid in the planning aspect of infrastructure repair and replacement. We continue to strive to stretch our taxpayer’s money to achieve the greatest results possible.
The Town of Keenesburg will hold municipal elections on Tuesday, April 5, 2016. There are three positions that will be up for election on the Board of Trustees, as well as Mayor. A Town Trustee serves for a four year term, whereas the Mayor serves for a two year term. The Town of Keenesburg has no term limits, and we invite interested residents that would like to contribute their time through public service to consider running for either Trustee or Mayor. We will be holding a candidate training session on Wednesday, December 9, 2015 at 6:00 p.m. at Town Hall, 140 South Main Street, Keenesburg, CO.
The Weld County Board of Commissioners Proclaim December 1st as Weld County Bright Futures Day. The commissioners would like to encourage Weld County residents, property owners and businesses to donate to the Weld County Bright Futures Grant Program on this day to demonstrate their commitment to building a strong Weld County workforce. For more information about the Weld County Bright Futures Grant Program visit www.weldcountybrightfutures.com.
The Keenesburg Area Chamber of Commerce will be hosting Christmas in Keenesburg on Saturday, December 5, 2015 from 2:00pm-5:00pm. There will be a bonfire with s’mores, sticker puzzle, cookie decorating, kid’s projects, puppet show and stories, cookie contest, and miniature Christmas tree contest all on Main Street. The parade of lights will begin at 5:30pm and will run along Ash Ave south to Gandy Ave west to Main Street north and will end on Woodward Ave. The tree lighting ceremony will take place directly after the parade of lights on Woodward Ave. For more information please visit www.keenesburgco.org.
The American Legion Post Jr Auxiliary will be hosting a monthly dinner to raise money to attend National Convention’s throughout the year. The dinners will be held on the second Friday of every month from 6:00pm – 8:00pm at The American Legion Post 180, 595 Railroad Ave Keenesburg. The cost for the dinner will be $8.00 per plate and will include full meal and desert. The dinners will be homemade and will vary each month. For more information and a full schedule please check their Facebook page http://www.facebook.com/alajuniors180.
We have received some complaints recently about telephone scams specifically representatives from the IRS. The IRS sends letters about tax problems to taxpayers by mail, they don’t initially call taxpayers or send them emails. Please make sure you verify who it is you are speaking with check the number and don’t be afraid to ask questions and take time to think things through. If they are asking for your personal or banking information please don’t give that information if the phone call is an unsolicited call or you are unsure of whom you are speaking with. If you are skeptical get the person’s name you are speaking with, the department they work in and the exact company name and ask if you can call them back. Research the main number for the company they are calling from and call that number; then ask for the person whom you were speaking with. This way you can verify that they are working for the company they are representing. Be skeptical if the person calling wants you to wire money or pay with a prepaid debit card. Scammers like to receive money that way because it’s almost impossible to trace who got the money and equally unlikely you’ll get the money back. If you receive an unsolicited call in reference to your computer having problems do not give them access to your computer. If you are having trouble with a computer or software contact the supplier directly. Also, be aware that scammers can “spoof” phone numbers to make it appear that they’re calling from legitimate places.
Public Works Report
With winter here, there are a few things to be aware of. If the temperatures fall below freezing please make sure your pets have proper shelter. Second, please be aware that the Keenesburg Municipal Code requires that sidewalks must be cleared within 24 hours of the last snow fall. So, please make sure your snow removal equipment is ready to be put into action. We also ask that those of you who are on a school route please clear your walks as quickly as possible to enable the school children safe passage. Third, if the weather is calling for snow please don’t park your cars on the street it makes it difficult for public works to plow the streets efficiently. Lastly, as the crew is out trying to clear snow, please remember that our first priority is to get the main routes first and then to work out to the secondary routes. We try and do our best with keeping the center of the road clean, without pushing onto the sidewalks. Depending on the snow amount this can be very difficult. We will do our best to keep things clear for everybody.
Thank you!