Salida budgeted $25,000 for fireworks in 2025 while community fundraising brought in $10,000 more, but council debated December 16 whether the city should match whatever donors raise or push businesses and community members to carry more of the cost for events that drive downtown traffic.
Veterans at Wreaths Across America asked about drones or lasers instead of fireworks due to PTSD and dogs frightened by explosions. Those alternatives cost more than twice as much as traditional fireworks.
Council Member Aaron Stephens proposed limiting city spending to match whatever the community raises. He suggested businesses who sponsor fireworks could provide leadership to engage community members who want to contribute, rather than having costs fall entirely on one business or set of businesses. “Passing the boot was a thing for a while,” Stephens said, “but it probably takes more than standing on a street corner with a boot to get $20 every few minutes.”
Finance Director Aimee Tihonovich said the city’s contribution has been missing from public discussion. The $25,000 doesn’t include staff time and expertise required to safely execute fireworks displays. The city provides safety protocols that are “not like shooting off Roman candles in your backyard,” Mayor Justin Critelli noted, reminding residents that backyard fireworks are illegal.
Council Member Wayles Martin said exploring partnership models has value. The community funds events through sales tax and local spending, creating a circle where money flows back into the community. Council Member Joey Rovinsky said community members and businesses are willing to participate in funding partnerships, but the nuances around expense and alternative options need exploration.
Parking Lease
Salida doesn’t own any parking lots. The city spends $155,000 annually leasing spaces from private property owners across multiple locations downtown.
Council approved a $55,200 lease with Salida Bottling Company for public parking on First Street in 2026, a 4.5% increase from the previous lease. City Administrator Christy Doon said past leases with Salida Bottling ran three to five years. This lease runs only one year because Salida Bottling plans to develop the property “soon,” making 2026 likely the final year the city can lease the lot for parking.
Council Member Alisa Pappenfort reminded council that staff recommended charging for downtown parking last year. Residents rejected paid parking. “As we lose these lots, people are going to regret it,” Pappenfort said. The city will need to find replacement spaces but does not control vacant land for parking.
Budget Amendment
Council approved a $250,000 budget amendment covering bond issuance costs for the Poncha Springs wastewater interceptor agreement. Tihonovich explained negotiations with Poncha Springs weren’t complete when council adopted the budget in October 2024. The amendment covers legal counsel, paying agent, and financial advisors associated with the bond issuance. Resolution 2025-55 passed unanimously.
Municipal Judge Appointment
Taggart Mosholder was appointed municipal court judge for two years starting January 1, 2026, with monthly compensation of $1,700. He replaces Judge Cheryl Hardy-Moore, who resigned effective December 31 after serving since January 2016.
Mayor Pro Tem and Liaison Appointments
Wayles Martin was appointed Mayor Pro Tem for 2026.
Council assigned liaison positions to boards and committees for 2026. Martin will serve on the Sustainability Committee. Suzanne Fontana and Shelley Schreiner were appointed to the Finance Committee. Fontana also serves as liaison to the Greater Salida Area Recreation Corporation Board. Aaron Stephens continues on the Airport Advisory Board. Joey Rovinsky joined the Parks, Recreation, Open Space, and Trails Advisory Board. Alisa Pappenfort will liaison with the Public Arts Commission.
Airport Advisory Board Appointment
Phil Phillips was appointed to the Airport Advisory Board through December 31, 2028. Phillips is a retired real estate broker and pilot who has owned a home in Salida for over 30 years. He said he wants to help the airport grow as a community asset.
Housing Authority Appointment
Tom Carney was appointed as Salida’s representative to the Chaffee Housing Authority board. Carney founded Rist Canyon Advisors, which invests in properties in the Fort Collins area.
Consent Agenda
The consent agenda included three construction project awards: the CR105 Bridge Area River Restoration Project, the SH-291 West Entry Streetscape Improvements Project, and the Police Department Remodel Project. Council also approved the December 2 minutes, the 2026 City Council meeting calendar and observed holidays, and the 2026 fee schedules.
Sales Tax Report
Treasurer Ben Gilling reported city sales tax collections increased $16,858, or 2%, compared to October 2024. The city’s portion of Chaffee County sales tax collections increased $30,851, or 10.4%. Actual collections are 3% ahead of budget year to date.
Other Business
The city attorney announced Michaela Salaji, a Salida High School graduate and new lawyer on the legal team, is working on board and commission trainings requested by council. Council will meet her January 20.
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