By HCA Staff Reporter
Public Comment: Free Speech, Housing, and Water Tap Dispute
Residents packed the chamber to address issues ranging from constitutional rights to construction problems.
– Mark Schofield opened by reminding council of their oaths to uphold both the U.S. and Colorado Constitutions, reading sections guaranteeing freedom of speech.
– Billy Mason called for the resignation of Councilmember Emily Tracy over a controversial social-media post.
– Steve Wilson described a costly issue at Dawson’s Ranch, where city guidance led to days of digging for a water tap that was never found—costing his contractor $12,000 and delaying occupancy. City staff assured him the certificate of occupancy would be issued the next morning.
– Larry Swisher and Tammy DeWolf defended Councilmember Tracy, urging recognition of her years of community service.
– Karen Hunter, a 71-year-old resident, described unsafe conditions and poor management at a low-income complex run by Cardinal Capital, alleging the company is out of compliance with the Secretary of State and threatening tenants’ rights.
– Michael Popp argued that any censure of Tracy would be unconstitutional.
Ballot Issue 2B – The Pool Debate
Public comment was dominated by discussion of Ballot Issue 2B, the proposed excise tax to fund operations for a new city pool.
– Dennis Weed, a rafting-company owner, said he supports building a pool but opposes the tax, calling it “the wrong way to do it.”
– Deb Dewey spoke emotionally about restoring a public pool, saying it’s vital for children and community well-being.
– Jay Klingerman proposed a Kaizen process review to improve the building department’s efficiency and reputation.
– Kelly Asgo Gold, representing the Royal Gorge Route Railroad, reiterated that the company supports a pool but remains legally exempt from city taxation under federal law. The railroad has pledged $100,000 annually toward a neutral pool fund if the tax fails.
– Warren Good, of Colorado Jeep Tours, also opposed the tax, saying tourism businesses already contribute heavily through bridge fees and that small operators cannot absorb more.
– Jared Post urged council to reject censorship and uphold free-speech standards for all elected officials.
Proclamations and Recognitions
Mayor Trotman proclaimed October as Pastor Appreciation Month, honoring local clergy for their service.
Two city employees were recognized: Shannon Hinton (Finance) for five years of service, and Christian Stirrick (Water Department), excused due to the upcoming birth of his child.
Consent Agenda Highlights
Council approved multiple measures, including:
– $15,000 for the Royal Gorge Chamber Alliance Foundation to assist with Welcome Center staffing.
– Engineering contracts for the Third Street Connector Project and the Orchard & Central Safety Study.
– Water Service Contract for the Helmic Subdivision.
– Emergency Generator Replacement at the Water Treatment Plant for $72,536.
– HVAC Replacement at the Library for $11,800.
– Receipt and filing of the August Budget Summary and expenditure reports.
Liquor License Approved for June’s Wok
Council unanimously approved a beer-and-wine liquor license for June’s Wok, located at 1310 Royal Gorge Boulevard, allowing indoor and patio service.
Electric-Vehicle Charging Ordinance
Planning Director Patrick Malready introduced Ordinance 15, Series 2025, recommending the city opt out of new state-mandated EV-charging requirements under HB 24-1173.
The ordinance allows EV-charging spaces to count toward parking minimums while reaffirming that Canon City’s current code already permits installations.
Council unanimously approved the first reading, with the second reading set for November 3rd.
Water and Storm-Water Rates
Both water-rate and storm-water-rate ordinances were referred to the November 5th General Government Meeting for review. Staff said the new proposal will combine rate restructuring with a 7% projected increase.
New Social-Media Policy for Elected Officials
Council adopted a new social-media policy requiring elected officials to either:
– avoid identifying themselves as city officials on private accounts, or
– include a disclaimer stating:
“The views expressed are my own and do not reflect the official position of the City of Canon City.”
The policy will be reviewed in January 2026.
Censure Resolution
The most divisive issue of the night was Resolution 11, proposing to censure Councilmember Emily Tracy for sharing an online article critical of conservative commentator Charlie Kirk.
Several residents—including Larry Swisher, Tammy DeWolf, Michael Popp, and Jared Post—spoke against the measure earlier in the meeting, defending Tracy’s First Amendment rights and warning against punishing private speech.
When the resolution was introduced, Councilmember Andrea Stein read a statement from Tracy, who was absent due to her husband’s hospitalization. Tracy asserted that she “did nothing wrong in sharing an article without comment” and added, “The First Amendment is for all of us—or none of us.”
Councilmembers expressed frustration over social-media conflicts but agreed that elected officials retain free-speech rights. Mayor Trotman and Councilmember Hammer both said they would not support censure, emphasizing professionalism and civility instead.
After discussion, no motion was made, and the resolution died for lack of motion. The decision drew applause from the audience, and there was no public backlash following the council’s choice to drop the matter.
Final Actions
Council later adopted Resolution 12, formally dissolving the Ray Canyon Park Trail Committee, and adjourned the meeting.
Next Meeting
Budget Hearing – Wednesday, October 22 at 5 p.m. in City Council Chambers.
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