The Crested Butte Town Council approved purchase of a deed-restricted housing unit at 816 Gothic Avenue and expanded parklet eligibility to the Four-Way intersection’s northwest corner on a one-year trial basis at their March 2, 2026 meeting. Council also hired a Finance Director and Housing Specialist, postponed a West Elk Soccer Association lease vote pending policy review, and consolidated spring meeting schedules by eliminating two work sessions.
Property Sale and Staff Hires
Council unanimously approved Ordinance 04, authorizing purchase of Unit 3A at 816 Gothic Avenue. Town policy is to purchase de-restricted units to update restrictions, particularly for Paradise Park properties de-restricted in 2019 where original intent wasn’t captured in subsequent sales.
Town Manager Dara MacDonald announced hiring a local resident as Finance Director starting March 23, with overlap planned with outgoing Interim Finance Director Rob Sweeney to prepare for April auditors. The town also hired Erica Brownlee as Housing Specialist.
Parklet Policy Expansion
Council approved parklet eligibility for the Four-Way intersection’s northwest corner on a one-year trial, responding to Sherpa Café’s request. The policy was not extended to the southwest corner after a business owner who oversees the Alpeneer expressed concerns about parking capacity and stated opposition to a parklet there.
Letters from Heather Leonard of the Chamber of Commerce and Laura Brody also raised parking concerns. The northwest corner currently has two eligible businesses: Sherpa Café and one vacant rental space. Paradise Café lacks street frontage and doesn’t qualify.
Council directed staff to schedule discussion of two-hour parking time limits for the Four-Way lots in April as part of annual parking policy review. The lots currently have no time restrictions, serving as long-term parking, while the Chamber lot across the street offers additional long-term spaces.
Flower Box Maintenance Transferred
Council approved shifting flower box maintenance from the town to parklet business owners. The town will continue placing and removing boxes, but businesses will handle flowers, soil, and watering—or may leave boxes empty or use them functionally.
MacDonald said the town lacks staffing for the work, with flower costs becoming “really ridiculous.” The town will redirect flower efforts to Elk Avenue barrels and traffic calming areas.
Soccer Lease Postponed
Council postponed voting on a five-year lease renewal for West Elk Soccer Association at 601 Elk Avenue after questions arose about whether the $3.28 per square foot rate is consistent with policy. The staff report noted the rate is below target price, though MacDonald said the town plans to survey commercial lease rates and return with updated policy this year.
Council directed staff to let WESA continue using the facility while confirming rate consistency.
Revenue Report and Wildlife Changes
January 2026 sales tax revenue dropped 8.9%, with primary shortfalls in e-commerce and construction. Retail and food/beverage remained flatter. Though January isn’t a major revenue month, MacDonald called the trend concerning.
Council members reported Colorado Parks & Wildlife will eliminate over-the-counter rifle licenses for second and third elk seasons in Units 54, 55, and 531, requiring hunters to apply in April instead. Most outfitters support the change despite potential economic impacts. CPW indicated wolves may arrive within the next year under state mandate.
Council members also noted the town was asked to comment on 12 state trust land parcels. Council wants to oppose private recreation leases that block public access, particularly for a parcel south of Crested Butte South with a trail that ends at private property.
Meeting Schedule Consolidated
Council cancelled work sessions on March 9 and April 27, rescheduling financial planning discussions to March 16 (following a 6:00 PM regular meeting) and May 4 (5:00 PM start before regular meeting). The consolidation reduces meeting obligations while maintaining discussion time.
Other Business
Sue Navy, Board President of High Country Conservation Advocates, thanked Public Works Director Shea Earley for winning a History Colorado museum contest with a poster about Red Lady, now displayed at the museum.
The mayor announced meetings with Senator Bennett, Representative Hurd, and Senator Hickenlooper’s staff during a March 3-5 Washington, D.C. trip.
Council plans a May discussion on allowing housing units to share trash cans ahead of fall enrollment. The PROS plan is now live on the town website with a survey for public feedback. Trash Bash is planned for May 15 or 16.
Council also approved consent agenda items including February 17 meeting minutes, budget amendments for street and alley, affordable housing, and transit and mobility funds, and the Q4 2025 financial update.
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