HCA Staff Report
The Woodland Park City Council met on October 2, 2025, in regular session at City Hall. Mayor Hilary Case presided, joined by all members of the council. The evening included presentations on local arts, land-use actions, and a public hearing on a rezoning request for a short-term rental property.
Mountain Artists Presentation
Nancy Standard, president of the Mountain Artists of Teller County, presented a report on the organization’s activities and community impact. She noted that the 2025 Mountain Arts Festival generated over $8,000 in sales tax revenue and featured more than 70 members. The group announced a new community mini-grant program offering up to $250 annually for residents pursuing art classes or workshops. Councilmembers commended the guild for promoting youth art and enhancing the city’s cultural profile.
Land and Ordinance Actions
Council approved several ordinances on initial posting to purchase multiple parcels, including Lot 6, Block 2 (Bergstrom’s Addition) and properties associated with Shining Mountain Golf Course LLC. The actions included a $695,000 general fund appropriation and a $3.2 million water fund supplemental appropriation, both approved unanimously. Public hearings for the ordinances were scheduled for October 16, 2025.
Rezoning Hearing – 309 Willow Street
Council held a public hearing on Ordinance 1503, Series 2025, to rezone Lot 1, Block 12, Foster’s Addition (309 Willow Street) from Urban Residential (UR) to Central Business District (CBD). Applicants Robert and Elizabeth Horitz, long-time residents, requested the change to continue operating their property as a non-primary residence short-term rental. The city’s 2023 short-term rental ordinance restricts such rentals to commercial zoning districts.
Neighbor Mindi Mende spoke in support of the request and asked whether it would set precedent for other residential zones. Planning Director Karen Harris clarified that each application is reviewed independently under existing code criteria. Council discussed potential issues of spot zoning and consistency with the city’s comprehensive plan but found no legal or policy reason to deny the request. The rezoning was approved unanimously. Mayor Hilary Case stated that “each and every application will be judged on its own merits.”
Other Business
Council voted to move future regular meeting start times to 6:00 p.m. beginning November 6, 2025. Members observed a moment of remembrance for former Police Chief Bob Larson, who passed away earlier in the week after 36 years of service. Announcements included the formation of the Mayor’s Youth Advisory Council for high school students, a school board candidate forum scheduled for October 6, and a community concert on October 8 at the Ute Pass Cultural Center.
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