HCA Staff Report
The Cañon City Council met in regular session on October 6, 2025, with Mayor Preston Troutman presiding. Mayor Pro Tem Tim Hammrich was absent. Councilmembers Denny, Maloney, Schmischer, Stein, Tracy, and Worthington were present. The meeting opened with an invocation by Pastor Bradley Buck and the Pledge of Allegiance before moving to an extended public comment session that dominated much of the evening.
Public Comment and Free-Speech Debate
Residents offered emotional and at times passionate remarks regarding free speech, civility, and local government accountability. Many speakers referenced the pending censure motion involving Councilwoman Tracy’s social media activity and the community’s reaction. Speakers Dennis Mann and Jared Post, both veterans, spoke in defense of the First Amendment and denounced political violence. Post reminded attendees that respect and discipline are foundational civic values, while others called for unity and kindness.
Resident Susan Gordon voiced concern that growing hostility toward elected officials could discourage civic participation. Several citizens urged the council not to punish free expression, noting that ‘disagreement is not disrespect.’ Public speakers also debated the proposed amusement excise tax and its potential impact on tourism and the local economy.
Wildfire Risk and Hogsback Mitigation
Charles Matthias, a local resident and veteran firefighter, asked the city to address fire danger in the Hogsback area. He described overgrown vegetation that connects directly to residential fences and structures along North 5th Street, warning that it creates a continuous line of fuel. Matthias recommended creating a 15-foot fuel break consistent with Colorado State Forest Service defensible space standards. The council thanked Matthias and directed him to provide a written summary to the Fire Department for review.
Proclamation – Domestic Violence Awareness Month
Mayor Troutman issued a proclamation declaring October 2025 as Domestic Violence Awareness Month. Crystal Sumter of Family Crisis Services accepted the proclamation, emphasizing the importance of public awareness and victim support. The proclamation noted that one in four women and one in seven men will experience domestic violence and encouraged community-wide prevention efforts.
Consent Agenda and City Updates
Council unanimously approved the consent agenda, including recent meeting minutes, committee resignations, contract approvals, and bid awards. Councilmember Amy Schmischer thanked the Parks and Public Works departments for their collaboration on lowering water costs for the cemetery. City Administrator Patrick Mulready reported that the Justice Center Drive project is nearly complete and that the Roads Avenue stormwater improvements will resume once Atmos Energy finishes gas line relocations.
Mulready confirmed that the Justice Center Drive reopening is ahead of schedule. Council discussed improving communication with residents regarding ongoing projects, including posting updates online and through city email lists.
Excise Tax and Pool Funding Discussion
Council conducted the second reading of Ordinance 14, Series of 2025, concerning a 2.25 percent amusement excise tax to fund pool operations. Councilmembers discussed ensuring transparency in revenue use and maintaining public trust. Supporters emphasized the need for dedicated pool funding, while critics worried about the effect on tourism and local businesses. Mayor Troutman and Councilmember Stein agreed that excess revenues should be reserved for future pool replacement or related capital projects.
Infrastructure and Administrative Reports
Mulready announced that fence height regulations may be revisited following citizen feedback. Council also celebrated the completion of three new trails at Red Canyon Park and recognized the Royal Gorge Bridge for hosting record community events. Councilmember Schmischer reported that the Cañon City Museum remains a federal fossil repository under a partnership with the Bureau of Land Management.
Councilmember Announcements
Councilmember Emily Tracy, attending remotely, expressed appreciation for community support while her husband recovers in rehabilitation care. She also reminded residents of the upcoming Carter Community Advisory Group meeting and thanked the public for maintaining civility. Other councilmembers echoed calls for unity and focus on local priorities.
Adjournment
Council adjourned after voting to continue the discussion of Councilwoman Tracy’s censure motion to the October 20 meeting. The next regular city council session will also include updates on the Royal Gorge Bridge surcharge proposal and discussion of a new social media code of conduct.
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