Monday, September 22, 2025

The City Council met in a regular session at 7:00 p.m. in the Council Room with Mayor Crespin presiding.

Present: Joe Gonzales, Shalah Mata, Gerry Jenkins, Kirk Crespin, David Zavala, Manuel Tamez, Brent Bates, Kristin Schwartz, Lance Clark

Absent:                   

Consent Agenda

Councilmember Bates moved and Councilmember Tamez seconded to approve the consent agenda Items 1-4. 

Item #1 – Approval of Council Meeting Minutes – 9/12/2025

Item #2 – Approval of Minutes for Boards and Commissions

a)    Utilities Board – 8/26/2025

Item #3 – Payment of Bills

General Fund-Vouchers #103077 - #103207

Item #4 – License New/Renewals

           None

• Voting Yes:   Gonzales, Mata, Jenkins, Crespin, Zavala, Tamez, Bates
• Voting No:    

Mayor Crespin stated “Let the record reflect that all Councilmembers voted an affirmative, motion passes 7-0”.

Approve Check #103140 to Gonzales Unlimited

Councilmember Bates moved and Councilmember Tamez seconded to approve check #103140 in the amount of $999.53 to Gonzales Unlimited for vehicle repairs.

• Voting Yes:   Mata, Jenkins, Crespin, Zavala, Tamez, Bates
• Voting No:     None
• Abstain:        Gonzales

Mayor Crespin stated “Let the record reflect that all Councilmembers voted an affirmative, motion passes 6-0”.

Audience Participation

Timothy Eirhart, 907 S 8th St. Apt. 3 stated that he expected a statement from Council regarding changes in the police department and the officer changes.  He also stated that there were two families in this town running drugs.

City Treasurer Report

City Treasurer Schwartz reported that they are working on finishing the Taxiway A grant through the FAA and CDOT.  Continuing work on the Brownsfield Grant and starting some budget for the Clean-up Grant through the Brownsfield APA Grant.

City Treasurer Schwartz reported on Tyler, they are done with the configuration in payroll.  Tyler will do a data pull on October 1, 2025 after the payroll is complete.  We will run a dual payroll the middle of October and the first payroll in Tyler will be October 29, 2025.  Utility billing process will begin the first week of November and go live November 26, 2025.

City Clerk Report

None 

City Administrator Report

City Administrator Finalists

Mayor Pro-Tem Tamez reminded everyone that there will be a Meet and Greet on Tuesday, September 23, 2025 at 5:00 p.m. at Tavern 1301 under the pergola for those interested in meeting the finalists and asking questions.

Prowers Medical Center Community Carnival

Mayor Pro-Tem Tamez announced that Prowers Medical Center is hosting a Community Carnival on Thursday, September 25, 2025, 6:00-8:00 p.m. at the LCC Wellness Center.

Big Timbers Museum Annual Appreciation BBQ

Mayor announced that Big Timbers Museum is hosting their annual Appreciation BBQ on Mayor Pro-Tem Tamez Thursday, September 25, 2025, 5:00-7:00 p.m.

• $2.50 per person or $5.00 for a family

4th Annual La Junta Tarantula Fest

Mayor Pro-Tem Tamez announced that the 4th Annual La Junta Tarantula Fest is Saturday, September 27, 2025, 10:00 a.m. to 7:00 p.m. in downtown La Junta.

Common Grounds

Mayor Pro-Tem Tamez announced that Common Grounds is Wednesday, October 1, 2025, 7:00 a.m. in the Cultural Event Center.

Oktoberfest

Mayor Pro-Tem Tamez announced that Oktoberfest is Saturday, October 4, 2025 beginning at 11:00 a.m. at the Chamber of Commerce.

Department Updates

Mayor Crespin and Mayor Pro-Tem Tamez provided the following department updates.

HR Department recognized the following employees for their years of service.

Braxton Warn – 10 years

Marvin Leatherman – 15 years

Linda Williams – 20 years

Sheri Eirhart – 20 years

Ted Vasquez – 44 years

Community Development continues work on the Chapter 30 Ordinance regarding zoning.  Also the building department is fully staff again with the recent hire of Tony Gratta.

IT Department completed the installation of cameras at the Welcome Center and continued work on the Tyler conversion.

Fire Department is in the middle of their stand-by season with the surrounding area football games.  Also working with the new Building Inspector with inspections and getting them up to speed on items outstanding.

HR Department is getting ready for the upcoming health fair this week on Tuesday and Wednesday.

Parks & Recreation has been working on the start of the fall sports along with the completion of the archery range.  Soft opening for the range will be soon and a grand opening in the spring with vendors.

Police Department has filled their code enforcement position along with continue work on the traffic study.

Library is working on trunk or treat the end of October and gearing up for the Christmas events.

Miscellaneous

None

Council Liaison

Golf Board

Councilmember Gonzales reported that they have had some equipment breakdown and had to repair their newest tractor PTO they have also had several motors that have had switches burn out on them, they have enough to keep going for the rest of the year but will have to take several to Garden City to have them fixed.  Their fleet of golf carts are in good condition, they had to replace a few of the batteries, and they are also asking that anyone who rents sheds have insurance on their golf carts.  They have purchased range bowls and replacing the old ones.  Greens have been cut and top dressed.  He stated there was a discussion on the handicap flags and the misuse of the flags, they will come up with some ways to revamp the use of the flags.  They had Evergreen look into possibly changing the lighting in the interior of the pro shop for a trade of advertising.

Councilmember Gonzales reported that LCC Running Lopes golf team finished 2nd in the Eastern Wyoming golf tournament and they were headed to McCook for the next tournament.  He also reported that the 2-Shot Golf Tournament is this weekend, he ask that Councilmember Bates talk a little about the tournament.

Councilmember Bates stated that they added some new events this year, the tournament stayed the same but was in hopes that the new events would bring out some of the public.  They created the new Birdi Bar, a long drive competition, a long drive competition glow in the dark, putting contest.  He stated that they have 40 teams signed up as of today.

Councilmember Gonzales also announced that the Rankin Memorial Golf Tournament is scheduled for October 4, 2025.

PEP Board

Councilmember Gonzales reported that the board is still working on their store front signage project.  They have their career fair in October and their VIP Social is October 4, 2025.  He stated that Lisa Schlotterhausen is no longer helping them with grant writing due to moving from the area.

Councilmember Gonzales reported that Shamrock Homes is under contract for some land behind JR’s Bottle Shop due to the help of PEP.  PEP has done some online spotlights for some local businesses, Little Patch on the Prairie and Colorado Quick Turf.  He also stated that CSU Extension plans to remodel the Vaquero Saddle Club for more office space.  They also had a visit from Don Filbeck on their projects.

Main St. Lamar Board

Boardmember Mata reported that the board talked about a community Christmas tree along with updating the enchanted forest.  They reviewed the survey results that the public turned in as to what they would like to see in and around Main St.  She stated that they talked about the success of the recent Corporate Cup, they also did a survey regarding the event as well.

Boardmember Mata stated that they had a visitor from DOLA that explained some of the grants that are available and how they are restructured now with the federal funding.

Public Safety Board

Councilmember Jenkins reported that they did not have a quorum but did discuss the neighborhood watch program and what neighborhoods want to participate in the program and Kristin will help with some possible grant opportunities.

Planning & Zoning

Councilmember Zavala reported that they had a meeting on the 17th regarding the Chapter 30 Zoning Ordinance.

Water Board

Boardmember Tamez reported that the water levels in the wells are better than last year and that we are on a three-year upward trend.  He also reported that Lauren Boebert is testifying in favor of the Ark Valley Conduit project.  She is pushing on getting this project finished.

NEW BUSINESS

Discussion with Prowers Economic Prosperity (PEP)

Tallie Harmon, PEP Executive Director provide a Directors update which talked about the stakeholder meetings they attend, technical assistance/conduit program for businesses new and old, statewide/regional CED’s report, their PEP business enhancement incentive program and the current incentives they have provided, she also gave a projects update which included career fair, VIP Social, Spotlight Programs, and Economic Development Plan.  She is requesting a possible work session for 9-29-25 with Council.

Ports to Plains Update

City Liaison Mike Duffy gave a brief update on Ports to Plains.  He reported that the annual fall conference is next week in Lubbock, TX and he will be in attendance.  Their theme this year is Interstate Advantage I27.  Interstate I27 is between Lubbock and Amarillo.  The plan is to bring that Interstate come up through eastern Colorado and Lamar.  He stated they need to get CDOT on board to make that plan a reality.  There was an environmental assessment done in 2013 but needs to be updated.

Appointment to the Lamar Tree Board

Councilmember Bates moved and Councilmember Tamez seconded to approve the appointment of Shawnarae Falconburg to fill an expired three-year term expiring March 1, 2028.

• Voting Yes:   Gonzales, Mata, Jenkins, Crespin, Zavala, Tamez, Bates
• Voting No:    

Mayor Crespin stated “Let the record reflect that all Councilmembers voted an affirmative, motion passes 7-0”.

John Henry Eldred Jr. Foundation Grant

Councilmember Gonzales moved and Councilmember Jenkins seconded to approve permission to apply for the John Henry Eldred Jr. Foundation Grant for up to $5,000.00 to be used towards xxx and bring back to Council for acceptance if awarded.

• Voting Yes:   Gonzales, Mata, Jenkins, Crespin, Zavala, Tamez, Bates
• Voting No:    

Mayor Crespin stated “Let the record reflect that all Councilmembers voted an affirmative, motion passes 7-0”.

Permission to Apply for the T-Mobile Grant

Councilmember Gonzales moved and Councilmember Jenkins seconded to approve permission to apply for the T-Mobile Grant in the amount of $49,300.00 to be used for revitalization of the Enchanted Forest and no cash match required and authorize the Mayor to sign if awarded.

• Voting Yes:   Gonzales, Mata, Jenkins, Crespin, Zavala, Tamez, Bates
• Voting No:    

Mayor Crespin stated “Let the record reflect that all Councilmembers voted an affirmative, motion passes 7-0”.

Permission to Apply for the EPA Brownfields Assessment Grant

Councilmember Bates moved and Councilmember Tamez seconded to approve permission to apply for the EPA Brownfields Assessment Grant in the amount of $500,000.00 with no required match and allow the Mayor to sign.

• Voting Yes:   Gonzales, Mata, Jenkins, Crespin, Zavala, Tamez, Bates
• Voting No:    

Mayor Crespin stated “Let the record reflect that all Councilmembers voted an affirmative, motion passes 7-0”.

Octoberfest Permit Request

Councilmember Bates moved and Councilmember Gonzales seconded to approve permit for road closure during the Lamar Chamber of Commerce Octoberfest. 

Mayor Crespin did state that the Chamber needs to make sure that the Tesla chargers are available during the event.

• Voting Yes:   Gonzales, Mata, Jenkins, Crespin, Zavala, Tamez, Bates
• Voting No:    

Mayor Crespin stated “Let the record reflect that all Councilmembers voted an affirmative, motion passes 7-0”.

Permission to Apply for the Victims Assistance and Law Enforcement (VALE) Grant for 2026

Councilmember Bates moved and Councilmember Tamez seconded to approve permission to apply for the Victims Assistance and Law Enforcement (VALE) Grant for 2026 in the amount of $23,624.00, they have requested additional funds for SANE exams.

• Voting Yes:   Gonzales, Mata, Jenkins, Crespin, Zavala, Tamez, Bates
• Voting No:     None

Mayor Crespin stated “Let the record reflect that all Councilmembers voted an affirmative, motion passes 7-0”.

Approve CHP’s Quote and Funding of the Health and Dental Insurance Premiums for 2026

Councilmember Gonzales moved and Councilmember Jenkins seconded to approve the CHP Quote and Funding of the Health and Dental Insurance Premiums for employees in 2026 and authorize the Mayor to sign.

• Voting Yes:   Gonzales, Mata, Jenkins, Crespin, Zavala, Tamez, Bates
• Voting No:     None

Mayor Crespin stated “Let the record reflect that all Councilmembers voted an affirmative, motion passes 7-0”.

Accept CIRSA’s 2026 Property/Casualty Preliminary Contribution Renewal Quote

Councilmember Tamez moved and Councilmember Bates seconded to approve to accept CIRSA’s 2026 Property/Casualty Preliminary Contribution Renewal Quote in the amount $848,773.60 and authorize the Mayor to sign.

• Voting Yes:   Gonzales, Mata, Jenkins, Crespin, Zavala, Tamez, Bates
• Voting No:     None

Mayor Crespin stated “Let the record reflect that all Councilmembers voted an affirmative, motion passes 7-0”.

Accept CIRSA’s 2026 Worker Compensation Preliminary Contribution Quote

Councilmember Tamez moved and Councilmember Bates seconded to approve to accept CIRSA’s 2026 Worker Compensation Preliminary Contribution Quote in the amount of $247,701.88 and authorize the Mayor to sign.

• Voting Yes:   Gonzales, Mata, Jenkins, Crespin, Zavala, Tamez, Bates
• Voting No:     None

Mayor Crespin stated “Let the record reflect that all Councilmembers voted an affirmative, motion passes 7-0”.

Miscellaneous

Councilmember Gonzales asked if there was an update on the DZ Construction/Evergreen issue.  City Attorney Clark stated that it has been submitted and in process.

Mayor Crespin stated that the Police Department would be giving an update at the next meeting regarding some of the things the police department is working on.

Executive Session – (1) For the Purpose of Determining Positions Relative to Matters that May be Subject to Negotiations, Developing Strategy for Negotiations, and/or Instructing Negotiators Under C.R.S. 24-6-402 (4)(e) regarding the Chief of Police (2) For the Purpose of Determining Positions Relative to Matters that May be Subject to Negotiations, Developing Strategy for Negotiations, and/or Instructing Negotiators Under C.R.S. 24-6-402 (4)(e) regarding Economic Development

Councilmember Bates moved and Councilmember Tamez seconded to enter into Executive Session – (1) For the Purpose of Determining Positions Relative to Matters that May be Subject to Negotiations, Developing Strategy for Negotiations, and/or Instructing Negotiators Under C.R.S. 24-6-402 (4)(e) regarding the Chief of Police (2) For the Purpose of Determining Positions Relative to Matters that May be Subject to Negotiations, Developing Strategy for Negotiations, and/or Instructing Negotiators Under C.R.S. 24-6-402 (4)(e) regarding Economic Development.

• Voting Yes:   Gonzales, Mata, Jenkins, Crespin, Zavala, Tamez, Bates
• Voting No:     None

Mayor Crespin stated “Let the record reflect that all Councilmembers voted an affirmative, motion passes 7-0”.

Regular meeting recessed and executive session convened at 7:50 p.m.

Councilmember Jenkins moved and Councilmember Tamez seconded that executive session adjourn at 9:24 p.m. and open meeting was reconvened.

• Voting Yes:   Gonzales, Mata, Jenkins, Crespin, Zavala, Tamez, Bates
• Voting No:     None

Mayor Crespin stated “Let the record reflect that all Councilmembers voted an affirmative, motion passes 7-0”.

Adjournment

There being no further business to come before the Council, Councilmember Jenkins moved and Councilmember Tamez seconded that the meeting adjourn.

• Voting Yes:   Gonzales, Mata, Jenkins, Crespin, Zavala, Tamez, Bates
• Voting No:     None

Mayor Crespin stated “Let the record reflect that all Councilmembers voted an affirmative, motion passes 7-0”.

The meeting adjourned at 9:25 p.m.

Linda Williams – City Clerk

Kirk Crespin – Mayor