Woodland Park Council Approves Bergstrom Park Master Plan, Hears Dental Care Initiative
Woodland Park – September 18, 2025 — The Woodland Park City Council moved through a packed agenda Thursday night, highlighted by the adoption of the Bergstrom Park Master Plan, a presentation on a major free dental care initiative, and spirited public comment on local rights and upcoming ballot issues.
Public Comments
The meeting opened with remarks from Joseph Shadowens, a Woodland Park resident, who urged the council to consider a community discussion on citizens’ rights and law enforcement practices. “There seems to be a fundamental misunderstanding of our fundamental rights,” Shadowens said, suggesting an agenda be created to bring citizens and law enforcement together to clarify case law and ensure protection of property rights
Debbie Miller, President of the Woodland Park Chamber of Commerce, announced that the Chamber had prepared a “blue book” guide for three proposed charter amendments on the November ballot. Copies will be available at the Chamber, online, and at city offices
Parks and Recreation Board Appointment
The council unanimously voted to appoint Joel Smith, a longtime city employee on the facilities and grounds crew, to the Parks and Recreation Advisory Board as a voting member. Smith highlighted his unique perspective as someone maintaining city parks daily.
Council members praised Smith for stepping forward. “It’s the first time we’ve ever had a staff member step up and want to be on one of our boards,” said Councilmember Bryant. Smith was officially sworn in during the meeting
Colorado Mission of Mercy Presentation
Dr. Stephanie Kaufman, a local dental surgeon, gave an overview of the Colorado Mission of Mercy (COMOM), a statewide event providing free dental care. She announced Teller County is likely to host the event in September 2026.
The two-day clinic brings in hundreds of dental professionals and volunteers to provide cleanings, fillings, crowns, dentures, and even oral surgery at no cost. Kaufman emphasized the community impact: “It’s free dental care. No questions asked. First come, first serve. It’s a great uniter in kind of a mixed-up world.”
She called on Woodland Park and neighboring counties to prepare volunteer support, noting the effort could require up to 1,000 volunteers.
Bergstrom Park Master Plan Adopted
Council unanimously approved Resolution 935, adopting the long-term master plan for Bergstrom Park in the heart of downtown.
The plan, developed with public input by consultant Logan Simpson and city staff, envisions expanded green space, relocation of parking, ADA-compliant facilities, and a new design reflecting the site’s railroad history. Councilmembers praised the design as a “significant upgrade” and noted broad public support.
Mayor Keys remarked that adoption of the plan gives the city clear direction for pursuing funding and grants
Ordinances and Zoning
The council approved on first reading an ordinance to rezone 309 Willis Street from urban residential to central business district, with a public hearing set for October 2
Another proposed ordinance to amend local accessory dwelling unit (ADU) regulations to comply with new state law failed to advance due to lack of a motion. Councilmembers expressed concern over pending legal challenges to the state legislation
Reports and Announcements
- Events: Mayor Keys announced several upcoming community events, including the Chamber Breakfast with Commissioner Dan Williams on Sept. 24, the Chamber Lunch and Learn on Oct. 2, and the Night at the Library fundraiser on Oct. 4.
- Projects: Public Works reported construction starting soon on Center Street and stonework underway at Memorial Park Pavilion
- Community Initiatives: Councilmembers highlighted the upcoming Creek Week cleanup on Oct. 4 and a Main Street open house on Oct. 20 at Rampart Library.
The meeting ended with the council entering executive session for evaluation of city attorneys. No action followed.
Editor’s note: This article was drafted from the official meeting transcript. While care has been taken to ensure accuracy, some details may contain errors due to transcription limits.
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