www.castlepinesgov.com

December 2009

As 2009 inches toward a close, the city is still working toward an integration plan with the Castle Pines Metro District, which would combine the operations and functions of both entities into one, resulting in maximum efficiency and cost savings to citizens and business owners.

One of the main reasons for incorporation was to reduce taxes and the high cost of conducting business in Castle Pines, and integration of the Metro District with the city is a key component of that goal. The integration talks began again several months ago. At the same time, the City Council and a newly-formed citizens group for tax relief discussed ways to dissolve the Metro District.

As a result, the city felt strongly about making one more effort to have the Metro District join in discussions where both entities could agree to a plan that would most benefit our citizens and businesses. The city's goal was to have a plan agreed upon by the end of this year. We will continue our efforts with that deadline in sight.

Another benefit to integrating the Metro District with the city is the search for renewable water. With some water providers approaching the city and some working with the Metro District, it becomes all the more apparent that a united, coordinated approach would strengthen the water solution efforts with greater speed and efficiency.

Incorporation also offers us the opportunity to work toward streamlining the duplicate HOA services through the sharing of some of these services. While some HOAs were reluctant to participate in this discussion in the past, a renewed effort is underway in an effort to reduce costs to the homeowner, while providing more efficient and cost- effective HOA services.

As we reflect on this past year and look forward to all the opportunities and potential before us, my warmest wishes go to one and all for a safe and joyful Christmas and holiday season.

Happiest of new years,
Maureen A. Shul

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Due to the serious nature of coyotes attacking and killing pets in our community, please read our recent e-mail alert concerning precautions for protecting your pets and family.
Additonal resources:
• Avoiding Human-Coyote Conflicts
• Coyote Sightings and Encounters

Office closures for this holiday season

City offices will be closed Friday, Dec. 24, in observance of the Christmas holiday and Friday, Jan. 1, for New Year's Day. All holidays are noted on the online City Calendar, along with the dates of upcoming meetings.

November declared National Pancreatic Cancer Awareness Month

The Pancreatic Cancer Action Network declared November as the National Pancreatic Cancer Awareness Month, and city officials signed a proclamation at the Nov. 12 City Council Meeting, showing the city's support for this cause. "I was pleased that the City Council unanimously supported raising awareness about Pancreatic Cancer through this proclamation," says Mayor Shul. "It is hard to find anyone who has not been touched by cancer, whether it is themselves, a family member or a friend, and any time we can help raise awareness and advance research on this devastating disease, I welcome and support those efforts." According to the National Cancer Institute, more than 42,000 people were diagnosed with pancreatic cancer in 2009, and more than 35,000 people died from pancreatic cancer this year. For more information, visit the Pancreatic Cancer Action Network Web site.

Draft budget for 2010 now available online

The updated version of the 2010 draft budget is now available for all citizens to view on the Treasurers' page of the city's Web site. City Council will discuss and vote on the 2010 budget at a special meeting 6 p.m. Thursday, Dec. 10, at the HOA 1 Clubhouse, 7233 Tenby Way. For more information, questions or comments, please call the city offices at 303.705.0200 or fill out an online comment form.

Douglas County Sheriff Department to host an open discussion

Join Douglas County Sheriff David A. Weaver and District Attorney Carol Chambers for an open discussion about the law and our community, 6:30 p.m. – 8 p.m., Wednesday, Dec. 9, at the Highlands Ranch Library, 9292 Ridgeline Blvd., Highlands Ranch, Colo., 80129. This community get-together will offer information on law enforcement and the importance of the judicial system. View the official flyer here.

New City Park named, continue to make your voice heard

The citizens, with the vote of the Parks Authority Board, officially named Elk Ridge Park to draw attention to the amazing wildlife in Castle Pines North. Congratulations, Beth Stewart for your suggestion! The "elk" theme of the park will highlight and promote respect for wildlife through construction of a very sustainable park to complement the surrounding open space and encourage wildlife and nature discovery.

In addition, the Parks Authority is applying for grant funds through Great Outdoors Colorado, the Colorado organization that distributes lottery funds. To show the wide and varied support for the efforts of the Parks Authority, they are asking organizations and individuals to write letters of support. Your letter of support does not need to be lengthy, but you should be clear about your feelings on the importance of bringing parks to our community. The submission deadline is Tuesday, Dec. 8. Please e-mail your letter (or submit any questions) to the Parks Authority.

Development north of Castle Pines peaks interest and concern

Due to recent informational meetings in Highlands Ranch, many questions have been raised concerning the possible relocation of Colorado Christian University to the open space area south of Highlands Ranch. At this time, CCU has not made a decision and currently has no plans to develop its campus in the Highlands Ranch area. The city has stayed on top of this issue to preserve and protect our community from any adverse impacts. "I have kept in contact with Colorado Christian University officials to ensure we are kept informed of their plans," says Mayor Shul. CCU is looking at other options besides Highlands Ranch in terms of possible relocation.

Keep your family safe this holiday season

The holidays are just around the corner, and it's important to practice safety measures in your home – even for your pets! Certain holiday plants and decorations can be toxic to our furry friends. Poinsettias, mistletoe and holly, as well as ornaments, hooks and tinsel can be dangerous for our pets when ingested. Be sure to keep these plants and decorations out of reach from your pets. For more tips, check out the holiday pet safety checklist offered by the Partnership for Animal Welfare.

Additional December dates

Incorporated Feb. 12, 2008, Castle Pines North is a city of about 10,000 located 20 miles south of Denver in Douglas County. For more information on Castle Pines North and to sign up for e-mail alerts about city news, visit www.castlepinesgov.com.