Music & Dance Week
In this episode, we tune in to the music scene and dance community of the Pikes Peak region with interviews and performances that will get your toes tapping!
Women Making Change with Stephany Rose Spaulding
Stephany Rose Spaulding talks about her work in the Colorado Springs area, and what she sees for the future – including her Truth and Conciliation project.
65 Does This Flight Make My Footprint Look Big?
Flying, driving, bus, train, bicycle, on foot, even staycations. What do we need to know to make responsible decisions about the way we move about? Dave Gardner, host of the GrowthBusters podcast about sustainable living, shares data and tools to guide us.
After the Election: What Can I Do?
Feel good now that you voted and posted a selfie with your I Voted sticker? Think that’s all there is to being an active and engaged citizen?
64 New Energy Plan
Christian Nelson and Michael Avanzi of Colorado Springs Utilities share the future of energy production in our community.
Poetry, Prose & Comedy Week
We listen in to the literary, poetic, and laugh-out-loud funny creativity of the Pikes Peak region in this fourth episode of our special 5-week series for Arts Month 2020!
Theatre & Film Week
In this episode, the Pikes Peak region’s theater and film scene are in the spotlight, with interviews and multimedia that will leave you applauding.
Visual & Culinary Arts Week
Savor the visual and culinary arts scene in the Pikes Peak region with interviews and features so good you can taste them … almost!
Arts Month Overview
Everything in 2020 has had to adapt to these historic times, and our region’s celebration of Arts Month has, too. In this episode, we explore those adaptations and new Arts Month features,
63 The New Energy Market
What’s happening and what can we expect in terms of how we get electricity to power our homes, business and industry? How clean can it be, and what it will cost?
VOTING Matters with June Waller, Voter Advocate
June Waller joins Mary Lou Makepeace, outside the studio for safety, to discuss her efforts to get indivdiuals registered to vote, why so many people don’t vote, and what we can do to get registered, and get more people active in running for important roles in our city.
VOTING Matters with City Clerk of Colorado Springs and County Clerk of El Paso County
The City Clerk and the County Clerk & Recorder discuss how voting works, what elections they handle, the security of our voting system, and why your vote matters.
62 Manitou Springs Forest Garden Initiative Kick-Off
This ceremony kicked off the Manitou Springs Forest Garden Initiative, in which Manitou will be planting tree guilds – natural communities of tree/plant relationships.
Issue 2B – Parkland Conveyance by Voters – Vote Yes on 2B & Don’t Vote on 2C
During Episode 3 of Making Democracy Work, we breakdown Local Issue 2B with Kent Obee, POPS (Protect Our Parks) Advocate, and we say goodbye to Justice Ruth Bader Ginsburg.
Women Vote: Kaleigh O’Donnell and Mattie Gullixson – Part 2
On Empowering Pikes Peak Women, we dive into Part Two of our Women Vote series. We’ve got Kaleigh O’Donnell and Mattie Gullixson joining us today to discuss their experience with voting, both in national and local elections as a younger generation. Subscribe for more episodes, and reach out to us on Facebook at https://www.facebook.com/PikesPeakWomen and let us…
61 – Creek Week Cleanup 2020
Don’t miss the 7th annual Creek Week Cleanup, September 26 – October 4th. Every year, citizens of Southern Colorado step up, put on their environmental steward hats, and join with friends and neighbors in what’s become the largest watershed-wide cleanup in Colorado. In this episode, Alli Schuch shares how we can all participate this year.…
Women Vote Part 1: Rachel Stovall & Rosita Carmago
On Empowering Pikes Peak Women, we dive into Part One of our Women Vote series. We’ve got Rachel Stovall, & Rosita Camargo joining us today to discuss their experience with voting, both in national and local elections. Subscribe for more episodes, and reach out to us on Facebook at https://www.facebook.com/PikesPeakWomen and let us know what…
Welcome to Empowering Pikes Peak Women
Welcome to our brand new podcast! Check out who we are, what we’re doing, and subscribe to our new episodes coming soon.
60 – Voices for Wolves
A conversation about why Colorado needs gray wolves and why Proposition 114 is an epic opportunity to restore a natural balance – The 2020 election in Colorado is shaping up to be historic, but not for the reasons you might think. Voters in Colorado will get the chance to direct wildlife managers to reintroduce gray wolves, nearly 80 years after they were eradicated on behalf of the livestock industry.
National Popular Vote – Vote Yes on Proposition 113
A chat with Sylvia Bernstein, Coalition Coordinator for the Yes on National Popular Vote campaign. Also, hear host Shelly Roehrs’ rebuttal to false information on the National Popular Vote from letters to the editor in The Gazette. This is the second of a series of Town Square episodes, titled Making Democracy Work, from the League…
Rampant Voter Fraud! Be afraid!
With information from our neighbors, local paper (LTE’s), friends, co-workers, family & leaders about how mail-in voting is rampant with fraud, we chat with Chuck Broerman, El Paso County (CO) Clerk & Recorder about voter fraud, turnout, suppression & apathy. We also celebrate the Suffrage Centennial Milestone & Women’s Equality Day with an ask for…
EPIC Launch
Get to know EPIC, the new music organization in Colorado Springs that promises “We will NOT be another “stuffy” classical music series!” EPIC was founded right before the pandemic began this spring.
Medicine Wheel Trail Advocates Exec Director Cory Sutela is the guest
On this week’s podcast, Bob chats with Cory Sutela from Medicine Wheel Trail Advocates. They discuss recent changes in the organizations structure, their effort to get more people involved in advocacy, and much more.
First Friday August 7 2020
This episode features highlights from the August 7th First Friday gallery openings in Downtown Colorado Springs, Old Colorado City, and Manitou Springs Creative District – plus the debut of Curbside Culture and a performance by My Name Is Harriett!
First Friday July 3 2020
Highlights from the July 3, 2020 gallery openings along the Creative Corridor of Downtown Colorado Springs, Old Colorado City, and Manitou Springs
Updating the Regional Sustainability Plan
How can we improve the Pikes Peak Region 2030 Plan? Konrad Schlarbaum (director of Green Cities Coalition) discusses his recommendations for improvements to the regional sustainability plan (PPR 2030).
First Friday Live – June 2020
A behind-the-scenes look at what’s happening in the Colorado Springs arts and culture scene, with a focus on both in-person and virtual First Friday events. This is a replay of live coverage of the first hour of First Friday, co-hosted by Studio809 and Peak Radar on June 5, 2020.
Indigenous Land Management for Growing Food Locally
What can we learn from indigenous people about caring for the land on which we depend for our food?
First Friday Live (May 1, 2020)
This is a replay of Studio 809’s first live webcast, from May 1 of 2020. It’s a rundown of happenings during that evening’s Virtual First Friday, and a great way to find out how the Pikes Peak Region’s arts community is responding to the COVID crisis.
Check Out the New Studio 809 Online Radio Station
More about this in our next email update. Subscribe here so you don’t miss out on all the buzz. Now playing: Update Required To play the media you will need to either update your browser to a recent version or update your Flash plugin.
Peak Town Square: Downtown Colorado Springs Coronavirus Update
How are Colorado Springs’ downtown businesses weathering the COVID-19 shutdown? And how can local residents best support our local businesses?
Peak Town Square: Colorado Springs Arts, Culture & Coronavirus
Public gatherings are out of the question at least through April. Traditional ways of enjoying the arts are all out of play now. But across the country – and right here in the Pikes Peak Region – artists are finding creative ways to continue playing their important role in society.
In this episode we’re joined by Andy Vick, executive director, and Angela Seals, deputy director, of COPPeR – the Cultural Office of the Pikes Peak Region. They share what they know about the impact of the coronavirus shutdown on the arts community, how it’s adapting, what the Cultural Office is doing to help, and what area residents can do.
Peak Town Square: Meeting Critical Food Needs during Coronavirus
How is Care and Share helping to meet critical food needs in Southern Colorado during the Coronavirus shutdown? Lynne Telford, CEO of Care and Share, fills us in.
Peak Town Square: Pikes Peak Region Business, Economy & Coronavirus
How is the Colorado Springs business community responding to the Coronavirus slowdown? There is a lot going on, and an array of resources to help businesses survive this emergency.
Peak Environment: 57 The PFAS Story in El Paso County Colorado
You can’t escape toxic PFAS chemicals. They are everywhere. Get an update on what we know and what’s being done about water contamination by PFAS
Peak Town Square: Puerto Rican Nocturne Performs in March
A thought-provoking interview with the cast, director and producer of Puerto Rican Nocturne, THEATREdART’s groundbreaking premiere of a new play by local Puerto Rican playwright Jonathan Marcantoni.
Peak Environment: 56 Colorado Needs Wolves
Colorado needs Wolves – not merely to restore a natural balance or the wildness that we all seek – though wolves will do that if they are present for long enough, in sufficient numbers and with wide enough distribution – but also to ensure that we pass on a Colorado intact, with a complete suite of native wildlife, to enrich future generations.
Pedal the Springs Special: Pikes Peak APEX Race
Join Torie Giffin, Colorado Springs’ #1 cycling devotee and owner of the Buffalo Lodge Bicycle Resort and friends, as they take you on a witty and informative ride around their treasured mountain cycling escapes in her brand new podcast “Pedal The Springs.”
Peak Environment: 55 Tiny Homes, Big Questions
Big things are happening for tiny homes in Colorado Springs. Colorado Springs Principal Planner Lonna Thelan fills us in on how city planning and zoning issues affect tiny home locations, and Shelley Jensen, founder, CEO and chief community strategist of We Fortify, shares details of her first development, Working Fusion at Mill Street.
Pedal the Springs: 3 Mountain Biking Mecca
Join Torie Giffin, Colorado Springs’ #1 cycling devotee and owner of the Buffalo Lodge Bicycle Resort and friends, as they take you on a witty and informative ride around their treasured mountain cycling escapes in her brand new podcast “Pedal The Springs.”
Peak Environment: 54 Smart Cities for a Sustainable Future
Does the City of Colorado Springs have a plan in case of a Zombie Apocalypse? Find out on this episode of Peak Environment. Learn about the myriad projects and initiatives managed or assisted by the City of Colorado Springs Office of Innovation & Sustainability.
Peak Environment: 53 Smokebrush Farm Feeds Mind and Spirit
Learn all about a very unique community asset. Smokebrush Farm is a small, biodynamic farm in Manitou Springs that serves as an educational model as well as a retreat center. Yoga classes, an art club, Indian dance class and artist residency programs are part of the program, which is part of the Smokebrush Foundation for the Arts.
Peak Environment: 52 Reducing Waste
Did you know less than 15% of donated clothing in the U.S. ends up in our second-hand market? Or that each cycle of a washing machine can release more than 700,000 plastic fibers into the environment? Paper and paperboard account for 29 percent of our municipal waste stream, and yard trimmings and food scraps account for another 27 percent.
Peak Environment: 51 The Dark Side of Renewable Energy
The future looks bright for renewable energy, according to Joe Jenkins, Principal at Environmental Compliance Systems LLC, but there is a dark side.
Pedal the Springs: 1 Rocky Mountain Rides
Join Torie Giffin, Colorado Springs’ #1 cycling devotee and owner of the Buffalo Lodge Bicycle Resort and friends, as they take you on a witty and informative ride around their treasured mountain cycling escapes in her brand new podcast “Pedal The Springs.”
Peak Environment: 50 Leading the Way: Libraries and Sustainability
You might be surprised at all the ways your library contributes to sound environmental stewardship. The American Library Association Council passed a resolution in 2015 on the importance of sustainable libraries.
a Place for everyone: 4 How Does Data Inform Services?
This interview with Dr. Tatiana Bailey will examine what we know through research about individuals who experience homelessness in Colorado Springs
Peak Environment: 49 Westside Community Garden
A one-of-a-kind approach to community gardening pulls out the stops on community building. Richard Mee and a few fellow community garden advocates wanted to take the “my” out of community gardening and make it “ours.” They charted new territory in their effort to launch the Westside Community Garden in Colorado Springs.
Peak Environment: 48 Air Quality in the Pikes Peak Region
learn about progress, challenges and initiatives pertaining to environmental air quality in the Pikes Peak Region
Peak Environment: 47 C Springs Energy Future Panel – Peak Environment Podfest
Colorado Springs Utilities is in the early stages of updating its EIRP – the Electric Integrated Resource Plan, a road map for the city’s electric generation mix over the coming years. Studio 809 assembled a panel of experts to educate us and offer their views on the subject.
Peak Environment: 46 Making Local Food Flourish Panel – Peak Environment Podfest
Less than 1% of our food is grown within 50 miles of Colorado Springs, estimates Larry Stebbins. Larry is one of the panelists gathered by moderator Ellen Johnson-Fay to discuss what is needed to help local food flourish in the Pikes Peak region.
Peak Environment: 45 PFAS Water Contamination Panel – Peak Environment Podfest
Is your water safe to drink? Is your soil safe to grow veggies? These questions are front of mind for many residents of the Pikes Peak region. For years, firefighting exercises at air bases in Colorado Springs used chemicals that we now know have contaminated area groundwater and are bad for our health. Find out what we know, and what’s being done about it, from an expert panel convened at the Peak Environment Podfest.
Peak Environment: 44 The Wonder of Dark Skies
Light pollution is the one pollution that costs less to solve than it does to continue polluting. It also represents a lot of wasted energy and has potential negative health effects. Plus, the lights of the city hide the wonders of the night sky from us. Clint Smith reacquaints us with what we’re missing and tells the story of how the Wet Mountain Valley (Westcliffe and Silver Cliff, CO) became the first International Dark Skies Community in Colorado.
2 Westside CARES
Food, financial and medical assistance top the list of critical services Westside CARES provides “neighbors” in need.
Peak Environment: 43 Planet in Peril – Senate Candidate Forum Part 2
Candidates for Colorado’s U.S. Senate seat up for grabs in 2020 share their positions on issues related to the climate crisis. This candidate forum was hosted by Indivisible Denver and fourteen other organizations, held at the Ent Center for the Arts in Colorado Springs on October 6, 2019. Ten candidates (links below) participated. U.S. Senator Cory Gardner and former Governor John Hickenlooper did not. This is part 2, the last half of that forum.
Peak Environment: 42 Planet in Peril – Senate Candidate Forum Part 1
Candidates for Colorado’s U.S. Senate seat up for grabs in 2020 share their positions on issues related to the climate crisis. This candidate forum was hosted by Indivisible Denver and fourteen other organizations (links below), held at the Ent Center for the Arts in Colorado Springs on October 6, 2019. Ten candidates (links below) participated. U.S. Senator Cory Gardner and former Governor John Hickenlooper did not.
Peak Environment: 41 Podcasting to Save the Planet
Learn what’s going on at the podcasting hub of the Pikes Peak region, the Studio 809 podcast collective. Over a dozen podcasts originating in the area can be found at studio809podcasts.com. Studio 809 founder Dave Gardner fills us in specifically on the environmentally focused podcasts originating in the “basement studio” – Peak Environment, the GrowthBusters podcast about sustainable living and The Overpopulation Podcast.
Peak Environment: 40 Sustainability in Progress – Arts in C Springs
October is Arts Month! Have at least one “arts and culture” experience this month. Art and culture have a lot of value to our community both in quality of life and economic impact. Just the non-profit arts in our region generate 153 million dollars of economic activity annually. The most recent Sustainability in Progress gathering at Ivywild School featured two speakers telling us about arts and culture happenings during Arts Month and year-round as part of a sustainable community.
a Place for everyone: 1 Housing Challenges in Colorado Springs
Who are the homeless, how did they get here, and what do they need? This inaugural episode of the podcast defines the problem of homelessness for our community – central El Paso County and Colorado Springs.
Peak Environment: 39 Creek Week 2019
What is about 40 times as heavy as a hippopotamus, 180 times as heavy as a grand piano, and 42 times as heavy as a car? Listen to this week’s episode to find out. You can pitch in to have clean, healthy waterways in the Pikes Peak Region, starting September 28, in the 2019 Creek…
Peak Environment: 38 Shave Your Utility Bill – Energy Resource Center
It’s one of the best-kept secrets in town! There is a service that can evaluate your home’s energy-efficiency and potentially trim your utility bill by 25%. Energy Resource Center is a non-profit that focuses on providing the service at no cost to families that most need the help.
Peak Environment: 37 How Should Colorado Springs Generate Its Electricity?
Coal, gas, solar, wind? How should each of these factor into our utility’s future energy plans? CSU is beginning to develop a new Electric Integrated Resource Plan (EIRP), and the utility wants your help. Michael Avanzi, Energy Planning Manager for the utility, provides an overview of the process, and Jim Riggins, president of Southeastern Colorado Renewable Energy Society, provides an engineer’s perspective on why renewable energy is not just the wisest, most responsible generation resource, but is also now the most economical.
Peak Environment: 36 Protecting At-Risk Public Lands and Values in Central Colorado
When the Trump administration messes with Central Colorado’s public lands, the results are not pretty. Hear what’s happening and what you can do to help protect our “Big Back Yard.”
Active for Justice: #3 Gun Violence – Not One More
Colorado Springs needs to have some conversations, changes, and healing in the aftermath of the death of De’Von Bailey – shot in the back on August 3 as he ran from two police officers. Community members gathered for dialogue in this “listening session” at the Sand Creek Library on August 19, 2019.
Peak Environment: 35 Glimpse of Manitou at Green Drinks
Manitou Springs has a rich history, and is taking action on climate change. If you missed the July 2019 Green Drinks event at the Manitou Springs Heritage Center, this episode is the next best thing to being there. Michael Miao gives us the lowdown on this museum, and Manitou Mayor Ken Jaray shares about a proposed Manitou resolution for city action to reduce the city’s net carbon footprint.
Peak Environment: 34 Voices of Sustainability from Sustain-a-Fest 2019
If you missed Sustain-a-Fest, this is the next best thing to being there. Over 50 exhibitors and hundreds of Colorado Springs residents and visitors converged on Acacia Park July 27 to crank up the volume on sustainable living. In this episode, Peak Environment Co-Producer Dave Gardner visits with several exhibitors and with Ryan Trujillo, the city’s Innovation & Sustainability Manager to bring us perspectives and stories of sustainability efforts in the Springs.
Peak Environment: 33 Developing Ecological Stewards: Catamount Institute
When kids put their hands in the dirt and connect with nature, the results are awesome. Catamount Institute is dedicated to connecting kids with nature and helping them develop into ecological stewards. In this episode, recorded at the July Green Drinks event of the Green Cities Coalition, we learn about the activities of Catamount Institute and Generation Wild, a special Colorado program to provide nature experiences for youth.
Peak Environment: #32 Navigating Climate Chaos Resiliently
Pikes Peak Permaculture leaders Brian Fritz and Becky Elder sit down with Carolyn Baker for an intimate conversation about finding ways to live well as we observe and experience climate disruption, species extinction, and the many other effects of humankind living outside planetary boundaries.
Peak Town Square 33: Celebrating Unique Places
PlanCOS kicked off its first year following approval of the Colorado Springs Comprehensive Plan update by Celebrating Unique Places. The event was held July 18, 2019 at Lincoln Center. It included libations at Goat Patch Brewery, bicycle rides courtesy of PikeRide, fire truck tours, pop-up workouts by Penrose-St. Francis Health Services, and a panel discussion with residents from different parts of the city discussing how their neighborhoods provide a sense of community.
Peak Environment: 31 Sustain-a-Fest 2019
Join the crowd and get your sustainability game on at Acacia Park in downtown Colorado Springs on Saturday, July 27, 2019. In this episode, Peak Environment co-producers Ellen Johnson-Fay and Dave Gardner are joined by Ryan Trujillo, Innovation & Sustainability Manager for the City of Colorado Springs. Ryan fills us in on the upcoming Sustain-a-Fest event, and also answers questions about the interesting activities of his office and staff.
Peak Environment: 30 State of Pikes Peak Region Sustainability
How are Pikes Peak Region sustainability efforts doing? What are the challenges, achievements, strengths, weaknesses, progress and setbacks? This episode provides a valuable history of efforts to promote sustainable policy and practice in Colorado Springs, and a snapshot of where we are today.
Town Square: 23 Examining Privilege: Citizens Project 2019 Creating Community Breakfast
The Citizens Project 2019 Creating Community Breakfast, featuring speakers from community organizations and conversations examining our privilege and ways we can use it. Idris Goodwin’s American Prom: Springs Mag interview CS Indy interview Gazette interview Spirettes band Instagram: @spirettes Rocky Mountain Women’s Film Institute Twitter: @RMWFF Instagram: rmwfilm Julissa Molina Soto: Documentary Program video by…
Council Matters: Improving City Governance – June 24 2019
Better pay? Larger staff? Separate utilities board? How can Colorado Springs City Council be improved?
Town Square: Town Hall with Pete Lee, Tony Exum, Marc Synder – June 6 2019
Legislation that was passed and not passed in Colorado’s 2019 legislative session pack the agenda in this town hall featuring Pete Lee (Senate district 11), Tony Exum, Jr. (House district 17) and Marc Snyder (House district 18).
Council Matters: Alphabet Soup: ADUs, STRs and PlanCOS – June 17 2019
Host and City Councilor Bill Murray welcomes Bob Cutter back to the guest mic, and they come out swinging.
Peak Environment: 29 Forest Gardening
You can fight Mother Nature or you can work WITH her. Forest gardening is a way of landscaping that saves time, money, water…and the planet. Learn all about this ethical style of Earth care, and how you can practice it in your own garden, from permaculturist Becky Elder. This episode is a recording of her…
Town Square: Jena Griswold CO Secretary of State – June 8 2019
The Omnibus election bill, dark money, voting machines, foreign money in Colorado politics, lobbyists, and more were on the agenda as Jena Griswold, Colorado Secretary of State, spoke on June 8.
Council Matters: How’s Our Local Economy Really Doing? – June 10 2019
Bob Cutter joins Council Matters host and City Councilor Bill Murray to take a hard and honest look at Colorado Springs’ economy.
Peak Environment: 28 Cooperatives and Solidarity Economy for Colorado Springs
Can cooperation and collaboration trump competition and profit maximization in generating community wealth? Matt Noyes, son of Chinook Bookstore founders Dick and Judy Noyes, shares his vision for the variety of ways Colorado Springs can benefit from models of cooperative organization and solidarity economy.
Peak Environment: 27 PikeRide’s Contributions to Sustainability
Everything you want to know about the PikeRide bikeshare program in Colorado Springs. How does bikesharing help us achieve the objectives of our sustainability plan (Looking to Our Future – Pikes Peak Region 2030)? What are the various ways it serves the needs of, and provides joy to, city residents and tourists?
Peak Environment: 26 Health and Sustainability
Everything you wanted to know about vaping, but didn’t know who to ask. How much do you know about the dangers of vaping? Did you know e-cigarettes contain toxins and carcinogens? That youth who vape are four times as likely to start smoking traditional cigarettes? That second-hand vape smoke can affect the health of bystanders? Plus, a preview of the new Children’s Hospital in Colorado Springs. Our health and the health of those in our community is an essential part of sustainability.
Peak Environment: 25 – Bikesharing in Colorado Springs
Did you know there are over 200 bikes in a 12 square mile area of central Colorado Springs available for you to borrow? Over a million calories have been burned by riders on PikeRide bicycles since bikesharing began in Colorado Springs ten months ago. Jolie Nesmith, Executive Director of PikeRide Bike Share fills host Ellen Johnson-Fay in on how bikesharing works, the genesis of the bike share system in Colorado Springs, and the benefits of bikesharing.
Town Square: Governor Polis Town Hall – Colorado Springs May 4 2019
Colorado Governor Jared Polis offers his perspective on the recently concluded legislative session and his first few months in office.
Peak Environment: 24 Who Gives a Scrap?
Who Gives a Scrap is a donation based scrap store in Colorado Springs and Fort Collins that carries an impressive mix of arts, craft and hobby supplies in addition to unique vintage finds. At the April, 2019 Green Drinks, co-founders Jayne Blewitt and Lorrie Myers shared their story and how the store works.
Town Square: National Popular Vote
The history of the Electoral College and advantages of a national popular vote for U.S. President and Vice President.
SoapBox: Vaccinations – Who Should Decide? – April 29 2019
To immunize or not to immunize? Are concerns about harms from vaccinations valid, or an unfounded conspiracy theory? Should parents have the right to decide whether or not their children are vaccinated? Is the proposed bill in the Colorado legislature a needed regulation or a mistake? Three medical experts and one concerned mother weigh in…
Peak Environment: #23 Getting the Word Out on Sustainability
How do we get the sustainability message beyond the choir? Social media is an opportunity to tell your story, capture people’s attention, engage with supporters and build community. Skyler Leonard, digital communications specialist for the City of Colorado Springs, shares how to better engage the community about sustainability using social media.
Council Matters: Old North End – April 22 2019
Traffic, the ONEN, ADU (accessory dwelling units), political candidates, CORA (Colorado Open Records Act requests), communication flow, parking, and other subjects are on the table. We’re back, after a post-election pause. City Councilor Bill Murray hosts (Tom Strand is AWOL for another week) conducts this spirited conversation about neighborhoods with Vic Appugliese of the Old…
Town Square: Surprised by Property Value Increase?
Learn how your property tax bill is determined from El Paso County Assessor Steve Schleiker. He explains the 2019 re-appraisal process and how it affects property owners. This town hall was held April 2, 2019 by the El Paso County Assessor’s Office and the Council of Neighbors and Organizations. Contact the Assessor’s office with your…
Peak Environment: #22 – Fungi, the Forgotten Kingdom
“All mushrooms are edible – at least once,” quips environmental scientist and mushroom expert Mike Essam, president of the Pikes Peak Mycological Society. Mike shared the wonders of fungi in this very popular talk at the March 22 luncheon of the Pikes Peak Environmental Forum. The photographs Mike showed are a key part of the…
Town Square: #25 – MeadowGrass Music Festival 2019
Everything you need to know about spending a beautiful Memorial Day weekend listening to amazing music under the sun and stars. Now in its second decade, MeadowGrass is the perfect getaway for families and music lovers. The festival features more than 20 national, regional and local artists, music workshops, yoga, kids’ activities, and camping –…
Town Square: #24 – Tools for Transparency – Civic Superhero Training
Report a pothole, avoid cone zones, watch a particular agenda item in a city council meeting, see candidates’ campaign finance filings, see where your tax dollars are going. These are just a few of the powers in your hands with the City of Colorado Springs website and COSprings app. Jay Anderson, Open Data and Citizen…
Peak Environment: #21 PFAS Contamination in Our Water
The chemicals used in firefighting foam, Teflon, stain-resistant carpet, outdoor sports apparel, and even the lining of your movie theater’s popcorn bags, are everywhere. Since they were first developed in the 1950s, they’ve become so widely used that traces of them have been found in the most remote regions of the globe, and in the…
Peak Environment: #20 Moving Colorado Springs Beyond Coal
Singer/Songwriter and climate/energy activist Lindsay Facknitz joins host Ellen Johnson-Fay to share how and why she added activism to the busy life of a mother of two young children. From January 2019 through August of 2020 Colorado Springs Utilities is developing a new Electric Integrated Resource Plan. Lindsay wants to mobilize citizens to let our…
Town Square: #23 CC Ice Arena Mtg 3 Q&A – March 23 2019
City for Champions, building materials, neighborhood congruity and existing neighborhood parking challenges are among the topics brought up in the Q&A section of public meeting #3 about the proposed Robson ice arena at Colorado College. Public meeting schedule and additional information can be found here. (Episode 23, recorded 3/23/19)
Town Square: #22 CC Ice Arena Public Mtg 3 – March 23 2019
Major changes in the planned arena were explained in this third meeting about the Colorado College Robson Ice Arena: a parking garage and parking lot, plus a relocation of the arena and the tennis courts. The meeting also included more discussion of the architecture. Listen to the next episode of Town Square for the Q&A…
Town Square: #21 Council Candidates Forum – March 21 2019
Growth, marijuana, homelessness, public safety, public transportation and affordable housing are among the topics addressed by the 11 candidates for 3 at-large positions on Colorado Springs City Council. Douglas Sharp and a few friends organized this forum at Cheyenne Mountain Elementary School on March 21. This is a “warts-and-all” recording without the help of microphones…
Peak Environment: #19 – Open Mic at Green Drinks Feb 2019
Local food and farmers, composting, permaculture, renewable energy and recycling are among the topics of conversation and announcements as we try something different – “Open Mic” at a Green Cities monthly Green Drinks event. At every Green Drinks attendees get the chance to introduce themselves and make announcements about important local environmental issues and events.…
Town Square: Collective Bargaining Ballot Issue Forum – March 18 2019
Learn more about Issue 1, Collective Bargaining for All Uniformed Fire Department Employees – the only question on the 2019 Colorado Springs ballot. Speaking for the proponents is John Roy, Deputy Campaign Manager for the Colorado Springs Professional Firefighters. Speaking for the opponents is Mayor John Suthers, representing Citizens Against Public Employee Unions. The forum…
Council Matters: No City for Old Men? – March 18 2019
Do we have a battle of the generations heating up? An off-hand remark about Colorado Springs wanting all the millennials we can get has sparked some conversation. Do we not value the oldsters? This episode has something for everyone to get excited about: bike lanes, taxes, traffic, red light cameras, and mentorship. (Episode 114, Recorded…
Active for Justice: #2 Eat, Pray, Peace
Pikes Peak Justice & Peace Commission Executive Director Victoria Stone welcomes RAWtools founder Michael Martin and peace activist/artist Mary Sprunger-Froese into the studio.
Peak Environment: #18 – Environmental Action Summit
The Colorado Springs Environmental Action Summit on March 5, 2019 brought together organizations and individuals working on environmental action – in order to coalesce a more effective environmental movement. Members and leaders from over 50 organizations, including Sierra Club, 350.org, ENACT, Green Cities Coalition, the Pikes Peak Justice & Peace Commission, and GrowthBusters. Kevin Mitchell…
Town Square: Candidate Forum March 9 2019
Taxes, growth, traffic and collective bargaining for firefighters are among the topics debated by 11 candidates vying for 3 at-large Colorado Springs City Council seats. This forum was held at the Penrose House on March 9, hosted The Gazette, KOAA News 5 and the El Pomar Foundation’s Forum for Civic Advancement. (Episode 19, recorded 3/9/19)
Council Matters: Campaign Forums – March 11 2019
Co-hosts Bill Murray and Tom Strand (who happen to be City Council incumbents running for re-election) discuss the slew of candidate forums. Should they all follow a standard formula? If candidates get questions in advance, should their answers be published? (Episode 113, Recorded 3/8/19)
Town Square: Candidates Debate Environment, Energy, Open Spaces
Candidates for Colorado Springs City Council debated environmental issues March 7 at Colorado College. Hosted by the Colorado College Collaborative for Community Engagement, the Trails and Open Space Coalition, the Colorado Springs Independent and The Colorado Springs Business Journal. (Episode 18, Recorded 3/7/19)
Peak Environment: #17 – What You Wear Matters
We’ve heard about our Watershed and Foodshed, but did you know we have a Fibershed? Learn why it matters what cloth you choose and where you acquire it. Judith Rice-Jones shares what she has learned about the clothes we wear, the fabrics from which they’re made, and our “fibershed,” a concept originated by Rebecca Burgess.…
Council Matters: A VooDoo Local Economy? – March 4 2019
Jobs “created” in Colorado Springs in 2018 were apparently only one third of the number originally estimated. Are overly optimistic economic numbers steering our city off course? Are we too busy creating minimum wage jobs? Sales tax, jobs, and economic development decisions under the microscope in this episode. The Scheels economic development incentive comes up, and…
Peak Environment: #16 – Sustainability in Progress: Water Quantity
Water is in short supply on the Front Range of Colorado. You probably knew this, but the details might surprise you in this episode of Peak Environment. Where will the 20-plus metropolitan water districts in El Paso County get their water in the future? Water rights are already being shifted from farms in the Lower…
Active for Justice: 1 – Let’s Buy a Gun or Two Before Dinner
Justice activist Josh Rumple joins host Victoria Stone to discuss gun violence.
Town Square: Beyond Dialogue – Tools for Reclaiming Truth
Shaun King provides insights and ideas on how to combat the effects of “fake news,” reporting bias and declining media independence. King made this presentation to a sold-out audience in the Shove Chapel at Colorado College on February 20, 2019. Shaun King is a Brooklyn-based writer and activist who focuses on civil and human rights,…
Town Square: CC Ice Arena Architectural Q&A – Feb 16 2019
The Q&A session on architectural plans for the Colorado College Robson Ice Hockey Arena. This is part two of the second public meeting on the arena. Public meeting schedule and additional information can be found here. (Episode 15, recorded 2/16/19)
Town Square: CC Ice Arena Architecture Presentation – Feb 16 2019
Architecture design and criteria are laid out by the project team in the second in a series of discussions about the Colorado College Robson Ice Arena. Be sure to listen to the next episode of Town Square, as well – the Q&A segment that followed this presentation. The arena is part of the Colorado Springs…
Peak Environment: #15 Life, Laughter, & Love of Green
From growing gardens to creating community to transforming lives, take a peek at what your community library’s Green Team is all about. Pikes Peak Library District Regional Manager Michael Doherty and Senior Library Assistant Debbie Vitulli join host Ellen Johnson-Fay for a tour of the Green Team’s many activities . LINKS: Green Team on Facebook Food Not Bombs…
Council Matters: Strand & Murray Town Hall – Feb 14 2019
A dialogue with Colorado Springs citizens was held by City Councilors Bill Murray and Tom Strand in this town hall on February 14 at City Hall. In this unedited and unfiltered special edition of Council Matters, Tom and Bill find out what’s on the citizens’ minds, and we get to hear the Councilors respond. (Episode…
Special: Terry Martinez City Council Candidate – Feb 13 2019
Get to know Terry Martinez, candidate for at-large city councilor in Colorado Springs’ April 2019 election. An in-depth conversation about issues affecting Colorado Springs. (Recorded 2/11/19) List of Candidates & Issues on the April 2019 Ballot For more information or to follow Terry Martinez: Terry Martinez on Facebook Terry Martinez on Twitter
Peak Environment: #14 Foodshed Forum 2019
Keeping our local farms intact and productive is in everyone’s best interest, but it takes much more than just shopping at the farmers market. Creating, nurturing and growing local agriculture will be explored at the Foodshed Forum in Colorado Springs February 22-23, 2019. In this episode of Peak Environment, co-producer Ellen Johnson-Fay discusses the forum with Sean Svette,…
Special: Town Hall Pete Lee, Tony Exum & Marc Snyder – Feb 9 2019
The Colorado state budget, and TABOR and Gallagher amendments explained and discussed in the town hall hosted by Colorado Senator Pete Lee and Colorado Representatives Tony Exum and Marc Snyder. Don’t miss the lively and informative Q&A at the end of the program. The elected officials answered forthrightly and honestly. (Episode 38, Recorded 2/9/19)
Council Matters: USAFA Visitors Center – Feb 11 2019
Will the Air Force Academy Visitors Center project bring Colorado Springs the promised economic windfall? Co-hosts and City Councilors Bill Murray and Tom Strand discuss the project and dig into the subject of tax giveaways by Colorado Springs. What do YOU think? Post your comments below. (Episode 210, Recorded 1/25/19)
Peak Environment: #13 Sustainable Palm Oil
You’ve probably heard palm oil production is causing deforestation and biodiversity loss on a massive scale. You might be surprised, however, how many products contain palm oil. The Cheyenne Mountain Zoo’s Tracey Gazibara shares how the zoo protects species and habitat by supporting efforts to produce Sustainable Palm Oil. (See links below for her slides.)…
Council Matters: Collective Bargaining for Firefighters? – Feb 4 2019
Should firefighters be able to organize to negotiate pay? It’s on the April ballot. Plus: the Chamber & EDC is proposing “new financial arrangements” for business development to our City Council. Co-hosts and City Councilors Bill Murray and Tom Strand dig into the pros & cons of collective bargaining, discuss economic development incentives, and ponder…
Colorado Latino Issues & Answers: Mouth-Watering Food – Jan 24 2019
The ultimate food experience is always on host Joe Barrera’s front burner. In this episode, Lorena Jakzuczak discusses Oaxaea Mexican food and J. L Fields dishes on Veganism. Prepare to be hungry! (Episode 5, Recorded 1/24/19) Check out Joe’s Almagre Review, a Colorado Publication : Where the Mountains Meet the Prairie – A Literary Journal Founded…
Peak Environment: #12 Brief Intro to Permaculture
What is permaculture? According to Becky Elder, it’s not what you do, but how you think about what you do, using nature as a guide. The co-founder and chair of Pikes Peak Permaculture joins host Ellen Johnson-Fay for a very brief permaculture primer. The conversation includes a great tip on eliminating some or all of…
Council Matters: CC Ice Arena Part Deux – Jan 28 2019
The proposed new ice arena at Colorado College gets more attention from Council Matters co-hosts Tom Strand and Bill Murray (also Colorado Springs City Councilors). Parking seems to be the big issue. Also, the history of City for Champions gets a review. Somehow, Alabama football creeps into the discussion. (Episode 108, Recorded 1/25/19)
Peak Environment: #11 Sustainability in Progress – Agriculture
Agriculture and local food play a vital role in the Pikes Peak Regional 2030 Sustainability Plan. Three local food practitioners share how local groups are promoting agriculture and local food in the Pikes Peak region. The speakers share how their work is supporting the goals to: promote urban agriculture and knowledge about food encourage regional…
Council Matters: Bike Lane Heartburn Continues – Jan 21 2019
Some motorists are still losing sleep over conversion of auto lanes to bike lanes. Co-hosts (and City Councilors) Bill Murray and Tom Strand continue to explore this issue in search of a solution. Are parties in full possession of the facts? Are there any opportunities for improvement in planning or implementation? (Episode 107, Recorded 1/4/19)
Council Matters: The Deer, the Park & a Few Other Things – Jan 14 2019
What to do about deer and homeless in our parks (and everywhere else for that matter)? Co-hosts (and city councilors) Tom Strand and Bill Murray explore what council should do. “Cull” the herd? Also on the table: should council put on the ballot an initiative requiring a citizen vote to sell, trade, lease, or transfer…
Town Square: CC Ice Arena Meeting Q&A – Jan 5 2019
Parking, traffic, funding and return on investment top the issues as neighbors ask challenging questions of the city and Colorado College. This is the Q&A portion of the January 5 public meeting on the proposed Robson Arena. Listen to part one of the meeting here. The arena is part of the Colorado Springs City for…
Town Square: CC Ice Arena Public Meeting – Jan 5 2019
This is the opening presentation by Colorado College on the concept of the proposed Robson Arena and the projected impact on the neighboring area. Robson Arena is a planned sporting event venue on the southern edge of the campus that will seat 3,000. Groundbreaking on construction of the arena is anticipated late in 2019. Robson…
Council Matters: Cold Shoulder for CC Ice Arena – Jan 7 2019
Serious questions about the proposed hockey arena at Colorado College are being raised by North End neighbors. Has the planning been sufficient for the existing neighborhood? Why is Colorado Springs giving money to a private college for this project? Can parking issues be addressed and resolved? Who will cover infrastructure costs? Will the Robson Arena…
Peak Environment: #10 Sustaining Communities with Local Food – 2019 Grain School
Eat your way to good health with local foods and grains! Locally grown grains are essential to successful and sustainable local food economies. Beyond environmental impacts, there are also social, health and economic benefits to our communities. UCCS Sustainability, Wellnss & Learning Manager, Associate Professor of Health Sciences, and mastermind behind Grain School, Nanna Meyer, joins Peak Environment Co-Producer…
Council Matters: Springs 2018 in Review – Dec 17 2018
It was never a dull moment in 2018 for the City of Colorado Springs. Co-hosts (and city councilors) Bill Murray and Tom Strand discuss a new CEO, new governance committees, renewed commitment to renewables, and developments related to closing the coal-fired Martin Drake power plant at Utilities. Also on the docket: the new regulation of…
Peak Environment: #9 Rainwater Harvesting
Now that Coloradoans are able to collect rainwater, with some limitations, you’ll want to pick an expert’s brain about smart rainwater harvesting. In this episode of Peak Environment, we’re sharing permaculturist Becky Elder’s “Rainwater Harvesting” class from the 2018 People’s Tiny House Festival. This episode of Peak Environment comes to us courtesy of Pikes Peak…
Council Matters: Can Cars & Bikes Get Along? – Dec 10 2018
Bike lanes (340 miles of them) and other efforts to modernize city streets are making a few people cranky. In this episode, two volunteers from Bike Colorado Springs offer their take, and take some licks. Corey Sutela, advocacy chair, and Cully Radvillas, communication chair, sit down with co-hosts Bill Murray and Tom Strand (also Colorado…
Special: State of Our City – Dirk Draper – Nov 27 2018
A review of recent accomplishments and a glimpse into the future by Colorado Springs Chamber & EDC CEO Dirk Draper. This meeting was hosted by Leadership Pikes Peak at Coquette’s Bistro. (Recorded 11/27/18) LINKS: Leadership Pikes Peak Colorado Springs Chamber & EDC Coquette’s Bistro Subscribe (free) to Studio 809 Specials podcast:
Council Matters: The Ugly Stormwater Mess – Dec 3 2018
Stormwater management in Colorado Springs is a mess. Co-hosts and city councilors Tom Strand and Bill Murray get into the ugly truth in this episode. What’s next now that the city lost the EPA lawsuit? Will stormwater fees be increased? Will new taxes be levied? Is the city in a financial hole it can’t get…
Peak Environment: #8 Our Community of Giving
Local nonprofit organizations play a key role in creating a healthy, sustainable community. Many nonprofits are working towards the goals of the 2030 Sustainability Plan and need community support in various ways. This episode features a discussion of the giving nature of the Pikes Peak Region. Sustainability in Progress is a monthly program of the Peak Alliance for a Sustainable…
Council Matters: 3 Important Employees – Nov 26 2018
Just three important city employees out of about 4,000 report directly to Colorado Springs City Council. Councilors (and co-hosts) Bill Murray and Tom Strand discuss the 3 positions: city auditor, council administrator, and CEO of Colorado Springs Utilities. They have other musings about regionalization, the Martin Drake power plant, and the AMI system. (Episode 101,…
Council Matters: Your Fortune Told Here (Post-Election) – Nov 19 2018
Political ads, term limits, and special interests are in the mix as co-hosts (and city councilors) Tom Strand and Bill Murray interpret election results. Plus: a look into the future. This is Bill and Tom’s 100th episode. Cheers! (Episode 100, Recorded 11/16/18)
#7 Peak Environment: Communicate, Collaborate, Celebrate
There is a lot of good sustainability practice happening in the Pikes Peak region. The Green Cities Coalition was formed in 2008 to connect the good people and organizations working in this area and foster collaboration. In this episode of Peak Environment, Green Cities Chair Konrad Schlarbaum chats with podcast co-producer Ellen Johnson-Fay about the history of…
Council Matters: Amy Sweet of Colorado Springs Business Journal – Nov 12 2018
From city growth and traffic congestion to bike lanes and sustainability, everything’s on the table as Amy Sweet, editor of the Colorado Springs Business Journal drops in for a chat. Colorado Springs City Councilors Bill Murray and Tom Strand co-host, as always. (Episode 99, recorded 11/2/18)
Council Matters: Election Poll Numbers – Nov 05 2018
Poll numbers surprise co-host and city councilor Bill Murray. The voters are interested in conservation, healthcare, and making Colorado better. Money, ballot issues, and an unpopular judge are also discussed, with co-host and also city councilor Tom Strand. (Episode 98, recorded 11/2/18)
Special: CONO Neighborhood Chat on Roads & Traffic – Oct 23 2018
Roads, traffic, development, parking, traffic signals and bike lanes all get mic time in this Northside CONO neighborhood chat. Tim Roberts (principal transportation planner/traffic engineer for City of Colorado Springs), Jim Reid (El Paso county public works), and Grant Smith (president of the Cragmor Neighborhood Association) share their perspectives and experiences. (Episode 37, recorded 10/23/18)…
Peak Environment: #6 For Love of Bluegrass (Or Maybe Not?)
“Stop Dissing the Grass,” was the cry of turf expert Nick McNamee to permaculturist Becky Elder. In the arid southwestern United States, thirsty, manicured grass lawns have been getting a bad rap. Is it deserved? Or is there more to the story? This episode of Peak Environment brings you a fascinating discussion held at the…
Council Matters: Bikes, Deer & Short Term Rentals, Oh My – Oct 29 2018
Do we have too many deer, bicycles and short term rentals? These controversies are revisited by co-hosts and city councilors Tom Strand and Bill Murray. (Episode 97, recorded 10/12/18)
CO Latino Issues & Answers: Music of 50s 60s 70s – Oct 16 2018
Professor Craig Warner joins host Joe Barrera for a trip down memory lane, discussing the music of the 1950s, 60s, & 70s. This ties into their real life experiences during the Viet Nam War. This is real history. It’s a must-listen episode of Colorado Latino Issues & Answers. (Episode 4, recorded 10/16/18)
Peak Environment: #5 Be a Civic Superhero
It’s easier than ever to be an informed, engaged citizen. October’s Sustainability in Progress meeting, hosted by the Peak Alliance for a Sustainable Future, gives us a glimpse of the amazing powers at the disposal of Colorado Springs citizens through the city’s website and its app for smartphones. Jay Anderson, Open Data and Citizen Engagement…
Special: CONO Northside Neighborhood Chat – Oct 16 2018
Local governments highlight this meeting at Amanda’s Fonda hosted by the Council of Neighbors and Organizations (CONO). Did you know the City of Colorado Springs web site is making it easier than ever to be informed or involved? Plus: City Councilors Don Knight and David Geislinger discuss Short Term Rentals. And El Paso County’s Dave…
Council Matters: Taking the City Budget Apart – Oct 22 2018
All about how your tax dollars will be spent. City Councilors Bill Murray and Tom Strand turn the mayor’s proposed 2019 city budget upside down and shake it to see what comes out. Public safety gets significant attention in this episode. Let the number crunching begin. (Episode 96, recorded 10/12/18)
Special: Citizens Project Issues Forum
Learn more about ballot issues affecting funding for public schools and transportation, and safer setbacks for oil and gas wells from schools, residences and offices. 3 statewide issues were debated in this forum hosted by Citizens Project on October 17 at Sierra High School in Colorado Springs. Amendment 73 (Education funding) Roberta Rizzo Michael Fields,…
Special: Democratic Party Annual Dinner – Part 4
Maryland Governor Martin O’Malley headlined the “Everybody Welcome!” dinner for the El Paso County Democratic Party on October 13 in Colorado Springs. Part Four features O’Malley’s powerful and inspiring address. Subscribe (free) to Studio 809 Specials podcast:
SoapBox: Vote YES on 112, NO on 74
Should oil wells be required to be drilled no closer than 2500 feet from your kids’ school or your own backyard? Don’t get your information from the spin on TV ads funded by the oil industry. Amy Gray and Leslie Weise of 350 Colorado – two concerned mothers who are active and knowledgeable on this…
Town Square: New Colorado Springs Comprehensive Plan
Are you turned on by vibrant neighborhoods, unique places, a thriving economy, strong connections, renowned culture or majestic landscapes? Learn all about the proposed new Comprehensive Plan for the City of Colorado Springs, PlanCOS, a plan that will guide our community’s physical development over the coming decades. The City’s Carl Schueler (Comprehensive Planning Manager) and Conrad…
Special: Democratic Party Annual Dinner – Part 3
The “Everybody Welcome!” dinner for the El Paso County Democratic Party was held October 13 in Colorado Springs. Part Three features remarks by Parkland school shooting survivor Brooke Harrison and her mother. They are followed by a special presentation by Stephany Rose Spaulding (candidate for U.S. D5 Representative) and by U.S. Representative (and Colorado Governor…
Special: Democratic Party Annual Dinner – Part 2
The “Everybody Welcome!” dinner for the El Paso County Democratic Party was held October 13 in Colorado Springs. Part Two features remarks by party candidates for statewide office: Phil Weiser, candidate for Colorado Attorney General Jena Griswold, candidate for Secretary of State Dave Young, candidate for State Treasurer Leslie Smith, candidate for CU Regent at…
Special: Democratic Party Annual Dinner – Part 1
The “Everybody Welcome!” dinner for the El Paso County Democratic Party was held October 13 in Colorado Springs. Highlights include remarks by U.S. Representative (and Colorado Governor candidate) Jared Polis, Maryland Governor Martin O’Malley, and Parkland survivor Brooke Harrison. Part One features opening remarks by chair Electra Johnson. Subscribe (free) to Studio 809 Specials podcast…
Special: Candidates Forum – Oct 10 2018
Candidates for national and state office in the November, 2018 election are heard from in this forum hosted by Citizens Project on October 10. Moderated by KOAA Anchor/Reporter Andy Koen. Candidates present: Stephany Rose Spaulding, Pete Lee, Brenda Krause, Andrew Smith, Tony Exum Sr, Marc Snyder, Frank DeLalla, Holly Williams, Cami Bremer, Grace Sweeney-Maurer, Liz…
Special: Statewide Candidates Debate – Oct 13 2018
Candidates for Attorney General: Phil Weiser and George Brauchler, Colorado Secretary of State: Wayne Williams and Jena Griswold, and Colorado State Treasurer: Dave Young and Brian Watson, duked it out in this fast-paced debate. The event took place October 13 in Colorado Springs at the Penrose House, sponsored by The Gazette, Colorado Politics and KOAA…
Special: Colorado Governor Debate – Oct 13 2018
Congressman Jared Polis and State Treasurer Walker Stapleton came out swinging in this Colorado Governor candidates debate. The debate took place in Colorado Springs at the Penrose House on October 13, sponsored by The Gazette, Colorado Politics and KOAA News5. KOAA anchor Rob Quirk moderated. Elizabeth Watts (KOAA News5 anchor) and Joey Bunch (senior political…
Council Matters: Ballot Measures 74 & 112 – Oct 15 2018
Two controversial ballot measures are under the microscope in this episode. Colorado Springs City Councilors and co-hosts Bill Murray and Tom Strand stake their positions on Amendment 74 & and Proposition 112. 74 would require state and local governments to reimburse property owners for any loss of value due to new regulations. 112 would increase…
Special: Growing Downtown and What It Means to You
This Neighborhood Chat includes Susan Edmondson of the Downtown Partnership, Crystal LaTier with El Paso County Housing & Community Development, and Colorado Springs Department of Housing & Urban Development’s Steve Posey). Local residents chime in on what they’d like to see happen to downtown Colorado Springs, plus affordable housing and short term rentals. This is…
SoapBox: Brenda Krause HD 15 Candidate
Education, healthcare, roads and gun safety are on the table as Brenda Krause introduces herself. She’s running for Colorado House District 15 and would like your vote. Election day is November 6. Watch for your ballot starting October 15. Check your district and voter registration at govotecolorado.com (Recorded 10/8/18) Links: Electbrendakrause.com Brenda on Facebook
Special: Renters’ Rights – Oct 1 2018
Do Renters have rights? Some landlords think not. But in reality, renters do have legal rights – as explained by Colorado Legal Service’s Clinton Albert. This program was organized by Catherine Duarte of Colorado Springs Community Development Division, the First Congregational Church and Pastor Jackie. (Recorded 10/1/18)
Council Matters: City Budget Preview – Oct 8 2018
How is the City of Colorado Springs going to spend our tax dollars in 2019? Councilors Bill Murray and Tom Strand discuss the beginning of the 2019 budget process. Should health & safety, broadband internet service, IT infrastructure, and the homeless have a piece of the budget pie? (Episode 94, Recorded 9/13/18)
Peak Environment – #4 Sustainability and Art
Arts and culture are an important part of a vibrant community, and strong community ties are crucial to a resilient, healthy economy. The Pikes Peak Region is lucky to have many organizations dedicated to Art in its many forms. September’s Sustainability in Progress meeting, hosted by the Peak Alliance for a Sustainable Future, provided a…
Special: State of the City 2018
Colorado Springs Mayor John Suthers delivered this address on September 27, 2018 at a luncheon hosted by the Colorado Springs Chamber & EDC. If you couldn’t afford the ticket or for some other reason missed this event, you can hear it here. Past accomplishments and future aspirations were among his remarks in this “annual report”…
Council Matters: City Councilors Town Hall – Oct 1 2018
In this “No Holds Barred” town hall, Colorado Springs City Councilors Bill Murray and Tom Strand hear from an energetic crowd. Citizens voiced concerns about homelessness, Colorado College, vacation rentals, and more. No pitchforks or torches, but a robust discussion. Can Tom and Bill deliver? (Episode 94, recorded 9/27/18)
Council Matters: Strategic Plan Plus Short Term Rentals Update – Sept 24 2018
Should Short Term Rentals collect the LART (Lodgers and Automobile Rental Tax)? A follow up to episode 90 about regulating VRBO and Airbnb in the Springs. Should we care about the Municipal Administrative Budget? Why should I read the city charter? What is the city’s Strategic Plan? Does it have useful metrics? (Episode 92, Recorded…
Special: Changing Colorado Springs’ Climate – Jim Hightower
Columnist/Humorist/Activist/Author Jim Hightower highlights the all-star lineup that graced the stage at Stargazers Theatre on September 16 for this event hosted by Together for Colorado Springs. Big announcements are among the varied subjects addressed, all related to elections, politics, and positive progress for Colorado Springs. Speakers include John Weiss, Jill Gaebler, Lisa Villanueva, Yolanda Avila;…
SoapBox: Marc Snyder Candidate CO House District 18 – Sept 14 2018
Marc Snyder discusses his positions on Restorative Justice and the issues that will be on the Nov 6, 2018 ballot. There is mention of his opponents and the “dark money” flowing into the district. Plus: “Why am I running?” Gary Casimir hosts this “kitchen table conversation.” (Recorded 9/14/18) You can learn more about Marc Snyder…
Council Matters: State of the City – Sept 17 2018
Energy flows as Councilors Bill Murray and Tom Strand gear up for the Mayor’s State of the City address. Collaboration, addressing specific issues, and the future economic climate are on Bill’s mind. Let’s not forget storm water, legal issues, and economic sustainability. Tom’s heartburn: “Are we, as a city, gaining on having a robust public…
Special: Utilites CEO Interview – Sept 12 2018
Get to know the 3 CEO finalists for Colorado Springs Utilities. The final decision will be made at 1 pm September 17, so waste no time in expressing your opinion to your utilities board (city council) https://coloradosprings.gov/city-council. (Recorded 9/13/18)
Colorado Latino Issues & Answers: Geo-Politics – Sept 06 2018
This episode is HEAVY on Geo-politics. If this was a book, it would be a real page turner. Some of the people mentioned will surprise you by what they’ve done and haven’t done. (Episode 3, Recorded 9/6/18)
Council Matters: Should We Regulate Vacation Rentals? Sept 10 2018
Are VRBO and Airbnb a plus or a problem for Colorado Springs? Vacation rentals are squeezing Amsterdam and Spain housing markets making housing unaffordable for people living there. Could that happen here? Should a city permit be required to ensure these entrepreneurs pay the Lodgers and Automobile Rental Tax (LART)? Should there be other regulations?…
Special: Unconscious Bias & Media Literacy
The term “Fake News” has been co-opted. In Building Resistance to Brain Bugs, Dr. Sam Ebersole discusses basic principles of media literacy, helping us identify the skills we can hone to get good information and distinguish real news from fake. Ebersole is a professor in the mass communications department at Colorado State University, Pueblo. This…
Council Matters: Utilities CEO Hiring Update – Sept 4 2018
Who are the 3 finalists vying for the highest-paying public sector job in Colorado Springs? City Councilors Bill Murray and Tom Strand update us and dig deeper into the hiring of a new Colorado Springs Utilities CEO. Will they be offering a $700K salary? Will CSU hit its stated goal of 150KW of renewable energy…
Council Matters: On A Roll – Aug 27 2018
Verbal thrashings punctuate a smorgasbord of topics hot in Colorado Springs. Bring your fire extinguisher. City Councilors Tom Strand and Bill Murrary are on a roll in this episode. There’s a lot of Heat and they’re taking “No Prisoners.” PlanCOS; Camping Ordinance; metropolitan districts; economic sustainability; public safety. Your comments are welcome below. (Episode 88,…
Peak Environment: #3 Joy of Environmental and Geologic History
Is your house going to erupt in flames or be buried in a landslide? Who are “boosters” and what have they done for Colorado Springs? And how do we measure environmental impact? Who said geology and history are dull? This episode’s stories about environmental and geologic history in the Pikes Peak Region will keep you…
Special: Deer Management Town Hall – Aug 15 2018
Should the City of Colorado Springs take steps to reduce the deer population in town? If so, what steps? This town hall included a presentation from Colorado Parks and Wildlife, and discussion among citizens and city councilors. (recorded 8/15/18)
Council Matters: Hiring a New Utilities CEO – Aug 13 2018
What are the criteria and other factors influencing the hiring of a new Colorado Springs Utilities CEO? Co-hosts and City Councilors Tom Strand and Bill Murray dig into the process underway to replace recently retired CEO Jerry Forte. On the table: vision, leadership, politics, renewables vs. fossil fuels, and more. (Episode 87, Recorded 7/27/18)
Special: Regulating VRBO & Airbnb in C Springs
Learn about a proposed ordinance to regulate short-term rentals in Colorado Springs. The Council of Neighbors and Organizations (CONO) hosted this informational meeting on August 7, 2018. City of Colorado Springs Assistant Director of Planning, Meggan Herington provided an update on the current draft of the ordinance. (Recorded 8/7/18)
Council Matters: Comprehensive Plan – Que Será, Será?
Is Colorado Springs’ proposed updated comprehensive plan (PlanCOS) a “Nothing Burger,” as intimated by John Hazlehurst’s recent column in the Colorado Springs Business Journal? City Councilors Bill Murray and Tom Strand debate. Is this plan, like all the others, in “sand?” What are the rising expectations of the community? What constitutes a “vibrant” community? Does…
Special: Mayors Panel – July 25 2018
The mayors of Colorado Springs, Manitou Springs, Green Mountain Falls, Fountain, Monument, Woodland Park, and Pueblo, Colorado sit down for a frank and open discussion of the issues facing each and every one of them in the region: water, stormwater, homelessness, affordable housing, and the list goes on. This event was sponsored by Nunn Construction,…
Council Matters: City for Champions Funding – July 30 2018
A downtown stadium and arena are in the works for Colorado Springs. Is this cause for celebration or for concern? City councilors (and Council Matters co-hosts) Tom Strand and Bill Murray explore the ins and outs of these recently announced City for Champions (C4C) projects. They examine the financing plans, the role of the taxpayer,…
Peak Environment: #2 Sustainable Landscapes
What does it take to have sustainable landscapes in our city? Does this mean removing all plants and putting rocks in our yards, or cutting down all the trees to save water? Heck no! Learn from experts in lawn care, utilities, and the city’s foresters. Speakers: Catherine Moravec, Water Conservation Specialist at Colorado Springs Utilities…
SoapBox: Manitou Cog Railway Petition
This concerns the Manitou Springs – Broadmoor deal to provide revenue relief to the city while the Pikes Peak Cog Railway is closed, and to provide tax relief for the next 50 years to the Broadmoor to aid in rehabilitating the railway. This is a recording of a citizens meeting held July 18, 2018 at…
Council Matters: What’s Up? Burglaries!
Burglaries are up 22% in Colorado Springs. City Councilors Tom Strand and Bill Murray tackle the problem, discussing potential solutions and offering tips for residents of the city. (Episode 84, Recorded 6/29/18)
Council Matters: Affordable Housing Solutions – July 09 2018
Can the affordable housing shortage be solved? If so, how? Private sector, Habitat for Humanity, tiny houses, government subsidies or requirements? Colorado Springs city councilors Bill Murray and Tom Strand give it their best shot in this episode. (Episode 83, recorded 6/29/18)
Special: Affordable Housing Forum – June 29 2018
This panel discussion focused on the role of state and local finance agencies in helping residents and workers find low- and moderate-income housing. Hosted by the Housing & Building Association of Colorado Springs. Panelists: Irv Halter; Allison George; Cris White; DeAnne McCann; Mike Burks. Moderated by Kevin Walker. Todd Anderson fills in for Kevin Walker…
Council Matters: Homelessness Solved – July 02 2018
Can Colorado Springs’ homeless issues really be solved? It’s still a HOT topic in Colorado Springs. Tom Strand just returned from Harvard, where he learned a thing or two about Colorado Springs’ efforts to combat homelessness. Apparently New Zealand, Australia, San Diego and Salt Lake City have fixed the problem. Learn all about it in…
Town Square: Bike Share Now in Colorado Springs
Bike sharing launches today (June 26, 2018) in the Springs. Hop off the bus and pick up a bike to ride the last few blocks or miles to work or play. Or, leave your car in the office garage and hop on a PikeRide bike to run up the street for lunch. If you’re a…
Council Matters: Bicycles – Blessing or Nuisance? – June 25 2018
“Bicycle, Bicycle, Bicycle, I want to ride my Bicycle.” Some motorists don’t want to share the road with bicyclists. Some resent their presence, and both motorists and bicyclists have some legitimate gripes about etiquette and ignorance – or even outright flouting – of traffic laws. City Councilors Bill Murray and Tom Strand discuss the controversies…
SoapBox: Lori Furstenberg for Congressional 5th District of Colorado
Lori Furstenberg, a voice of the people, wants your vote and bares her soul in this fast paced conversation. She is a court appointed conservator and guardian to seniors, special needs persons and Vets, So, she has heart. Collaborate, communicate, and negotiate is her mantra. In her travels the people have told her they want…
Special: Creekside Camping Ordinance Town Hall
A controversial ordinance prohibiting camping within 100 feet of Colorado Springs creeks is the topic of this June 14, 2018 public town hall. It included a brief presentation, followed by citizen comments, along with some limited dialogue with city councilors, regarding the proposed Creekside Camping Ordinance. At the time of this town hall, the first…
Peak Environment: #1 Power to the Pedals
Whether you bike to work or school; ride to save money or time; pump those pedals to preserve your health or the environment; or simply to explore your community, the June 20, 2018 Sustainability in Progress program celebrated the unique power of the bicycle and the many reasons we ride. In this episode of Peak Environment,…
Council Matters: More Homeless & Marijuana Busts – June 18 2018
El Paso county is doing drug busts. Is it all for show? Colorado Springs City Councilors Bill Murray and Tom Strand wonder if these busts are being staged. Why? Plus: The homeless population in the Springs is increasing. And panhandlers are getting younger by the day. Where are they coming from? Not Colorado Springs. Not…
Council Matters: Collective Bargaining for Firefighters – June 11 2018
Will Tom Strand run for a second term on city council? The firefighters want collective bargaining and a seat at the table. Is that a reasonable request, and who should decide? Colorado Springs City Councilors Bill Murray and Tom Strand tee it up and talk it down the fairway. Share your thoughts with a comment…
Special: Citizens Project Creating Community Breakfast 2018
Dialog Over Diatribe: Hear about the need for and the important community-building accomplishments of Citizens Project in Colorado Springs. Executive Director Deb Walker and Norm Bouchard kick off this 25th anniversary event – with the help of Mark Garner, Yemi Mobolade, Cynthia Nimerichter, Jane Ard-Smith, Joy Garscadden, Rachel Stovall, with vocals by Denise Rosier. Citizens…
Special: Hwy 24/ COG railway/traffic impact – May 29 2018
This CDOT-led community discussion for Woodland Park, Manitou, and Chipita Park citizens addressed congestion and traffic problems in their area.
Special: Mike Johnston Stump Speech – Jun 1 2018
Colorado gubernatorial candidate Mike Johnston gave this stump speech to a gathering in Colorado Springs, CO on June 1. Topics included schools, roads & bridges, the economy and much more. A Q&A session followed. (Recorded 6/1/18) For more information visit Johnston’s website.
Peak Reality Check: Inequality – June 1 2018
Today, Lyn and Gary discuss inequality, the tax bill, robotics, AI, suicide rate among doctors and nurses, economic planning, trade war, tariffs, Canada, Mexico, Wilbur Ross, Steve Mnuchin, a segment called “By the Numbers”, global warming, air conditioning, Inauguration protesters, Project Veritas, Katrina Vander Huevel, The Nation Magazine, Paul Ryan, Koch Bros., education, teachers, Working…
Is Colorado Springs City Council working in secret too often? Councilor Bill Murray thinks so. What are the true legal requirements placed on executive sessions? What subjects really should be discussed behind closed doors? City Councilor Tom Strand has a different take than Murray on the subject. (Episode 78, recorded 5/18/18)
Town Square: Bike Month is Here
June is a great month to get on your bike in Colorado Springs. This episode has the details on the many fun bicycling events in Colorado Springs during Colorado Bike Month in June, 2018. City Councilor and bicycling advocate Jill Gaebler guest hosts with Dave Gardner. They’re joined by Allen Beauchamp of Bike Colorado Springs…
Council Matters: Watering Our Parks – May 28 2018
Colorado Springs’ parks department can’t afford to water our trees and park grass adequately. Should Colorado Springs Utilities provide free or discounted water to keep the parks alive and well? Do we have a water surplus? City Councilors Tom Strand and Bill Murray discuss the issue and possible solutions. NOTE: shortly after this episode was…
Special: Democratic Governor Candidates Debate – May 19 2018
Gasoline tax, Colorado personal property tax, NRA, schools, oil & gas issues, Olympics, immigration policy, and affordable housing are among the topics covered by Democratic candidates for governor of Colorado. Participants include Mike Johnston, Congressman Jared Polis, Cary Kennedy, and Lt. Gov. Donna Lyn. This debate was held at the first annual Colorado Civic Barbecue,…
Special: Republican Governor’s Debate – May 19 2018
Republican candidates for Colorado governor Greg Lopez, Victor Mitchell, Doug Robinson, and Walker Stapleton discuss schools, sanctuary cities, marijuana, guns, transportation funding, PERA, EV tax credits, drilling, TABOR, and more in this debate hosted by the Forum for Civic Advancement (sponsored by the El Pomar Foundation and The Gazette). Moderated by Joey Bunch and Arron…
Council Matters: Business & Jobs – May 21 2018
Why isn’t Colorado Springs attracting permanent businesses? City Councilors Tom Strand and Bill Murray discuss this question. They ask if the Colorado Springs Chamber and EDC (Economic Development Council) are doing enough. Is the city’s job market expanding in the high-end or the low-end? Are we becoming a bedroom community of Denver or a military…
Council Matters: Electricity Setback – May 13 2018
Xcel exits the Regional Transmission Organization (which includes Colorado Springs Utilities). City councilors Bill Murray and Tom Strand aren’t happy about it. Isn’t pooling resources a good idea? They also have more to say on closing Martin-Drake power plant. Also: how should they city pay for water for its parks? Should we have a Pikes…
Special: Councilor Don Knight’s D1 Town Hall – May 02 2018
Colorado Springs has a deer problem. City Councilor Don Knight (District #1) discusses what to do about the deer population in this town hall. Some citizens are concerned about the sale of a piece of property by the city for $1.00. The search for a new Utilities CEO is another topic. Also: panhandlers and the…
Council Matters: Banning Lewis Ranch Post Mortem – May 7 2018
Amending the Banning Lewis Ranch annexation agreement was just the first step. According to Colorado Springs City Councilor Bill Murray, “The Heavy Lifting” is yet to be done. This includes road construction, fire and police stations. Bill Murray and Tom Strand also discuss Arbor Day and the teachers protests (locally and in Denver). (Episode 74,…
Town Square: MeadowGrass Music Festival 2018
The MeadowGrass Music Festival is the premier outdoor music event of the summer in Southern Colorado. Festival director Michele Mukatis samples some of the artists booked for this year’s festival, on Memorial Day Weekend (May 25-27, 2018). She also shares news about special features, including, new this year, a Friday night beer tasting. Music, food,…
Council Matters: New Twist on Homeless Camps – April 30 2018
Will a “Riparian Ordinance” protect streams from contamination by homeless campers? Will the ACLU have a problem with it? Colorado Springs City Councilors Bill Murray and Tom Strand explore what can be done about homeless camps. ALSO: the average annual wage in town is $46K. Is that a living wage? (episode 73, recorded 2018 04…
SoapBox: N Cheyenne Cañon Master Plan Has Issues
Ruth Obee, award-winning poet and author, and husband Kent Obee – both prominent, long-time open space advocates in Colorado Springs, share their significant concerns about the proposed North Cheyenne Cañon Master Plan. This plan is scheduled for a vote by the Parks Advisory Board on May 10. They also provide an update and perspective on…
Council Matters: Water, Parks, and A Few Other Things – April 23 2018
Can Colorado Springs afford to water its parks? City Councilors Bill Murray and Tom Strand discuss ways of addressing that financial challenge. Also: Surplus city revenue? Bill thinks the town will be hitting an economic downturn very soon. Doug Lamborn’s spot in the primary heads to the Colorado Supreme Court. Hickenlooper for president 2020? (Episode…
Special: Newspaper Ownership in Colorado – Panel CPA April 12 2018
The impact of media ownership on content was discussed by this panel at the Colorado Press Association Annual Convention in Colorado Springs. Newspaper ownership in Colorado was a focus. Panelists: Moderator: Corey Hutchins, Columbia Journalism Review Dave Krieger, editorial page editor of the The Boulder Daily Camera Laura Frank, vice president of journalism at Rocky…
Council Matters: Campers and Cops – April 16 2018
Too many campers and too few cops? Over half the boost of officers from each new police academy graduating class is lost through retirements and attrition throughout the force. Should police and fire have bargaining rights with the city? Plus: Should we find a way to allow camping along Colorado Springs’ waterways. How should Colorado…
Special: Banning Lewis Ranch Town Hall #3 April 11 2018
In this 3rd and final Town Hall about the proposed amendment to the Banning Lewis Ranch annexation agreement, members of city staff make a presentation and answer city council questions; and citizens voice concerns, opinions and questions. This starts in mid-sentence due to technical problems in the meeting sound system. City Council is scheduled to…
Town Square: Is Colorado Springs Smart?
Could Colorado Springs be one of the smartest cities in the country? Find out all about the SmartCOS project from Ryan Trujillo, Innovation & Sustainability Manager, and Jay Anderson, Open Data and Citizen Engagement Administrator, both for the City of Colorado Springs. The city is partnering with Panasonic’s CityNOW consulting team to chart a path…
Council Matters: New Utilities CEO Should Be… – April 9 2018
What does Colorado Springs need in a new Utilities CEO? Bill Murray is MIA, so City Councilor (and Utilities Board Chair) Tom Strand enlists the help of producer Gary Casimir to discuss the departing Jerry Forte and recruiting his replacement. Plus: The Broadmoor comes in for a little April Fools fun. (Episode 70, recorded 2018…
Town Square: Loving Garden of the Gods to Death
Automobiles banned from Garden of the Gods? Just for a few hours on Earth Day, but this is just one of the options discussed in this episode about loving Garden of the Gods to death. Jan Martin and Jill Gaebler get together with Dave Gardner to discuss plans for dealing with the 6 million visitors…
Council Matters: Traffic Issues – April 2 2018
Do you have Traffic Issues? Does Colorado Springs? City Councilors Bill Murray and Tom Strand discuss traffic and pedestrian issues facing Colorado College and the Old North End. What will be the downstream impact of Colorado Springs road dieting and changes? Plus: Is there such a thing a affordable housing? Bill Murray has your answer.…
Who will lead the billion-dollar Colorado Springs Utilities into the future? CEO Jerry Forte is retiring. Council members Tom Strand and Bill Murray discuss the process to find a new CEO, plus the challenges he or she will face. It could be a wild ride, considering the various factions in the community who will have…
Town Square: Giving Away the Farm to Develop Banning Lewis Ranch
Citizens see flaws in the City’s plans to grease the wheels of development at Banning Lewis Ranch. In this follow up to episode 3 of Town Square (Banning Lewis – Giving Up Too Much?), Bob Falcone, Past-President of the Friends of Cheyenne Cañon and a member of the El Paso County Parks Advisory Board (speaking…
Town Square: Homeless Not Alone
Does Colorado Springs attract an inordinate share of homelessness? What exacerbates the problem, what do the homeless need, and how is our city doing on this? Homelessness, always an important issue, is frequently front page news these days in Colorado Springs. In this episode we get detail about the issue and what’s being done to…
Colorado Issues & Answers: Hispanic Business Council – March 12 2018
Tony Perez, of the Colorado Springs Hispanic Business Council, sits down with host Joe Barrera for a conversation about the Hispanic community in Colorado Springs. The Hispanic Business Council, the diversity and inclusion movement, small businesses in El Paso County and Colorado Springs are discussed. The discussion delves into minorities, markets, demographics, networking the small…
Special: Young Democrats Meet Candidate Terry Martinez – Feb 26 2018
Terry Martinez is running for House District 18 in Colorado Springs. The Young Democrats get his take on various subjects from education, energy, universal healthcare, and more. Terry’s an artist, chemistry teacher, coach and principal. After 31 years as an educator, he has retired and wants to start a new career as a politician. He…
Council Matters: Executive Sessions – March 12 2018
“I’ve got a secret” isn’t exactly the motto you want those running your city to adopt. Springs City Councilors Tom Strand and Bill Murray discuss the city attorney’s role in executive sessions. Should the city attorney be elected instead of appointed by the mayor? How does the city attorney set the (mayor’s?) agenda for council?…
Town Square: Banning Lewis – Giving Up Too Much?
Four citizens discuss flaws in the proposed amendments to the Banning Lewis Ranch annexation agreement, and the shortcomings in the process that are giving us this result. Colorado Springs City Council is scheduled to vote in April on this proposal designed to jump-start development. The ranch represents about 20% of the total area of Colorado…
Council Matters: Homelessness – March 5 2018
Can we solve homelessness in Colorado Springs? City Councilors Bill Murray and Tom Strand discuss this issue that has been plaguing Colorado Springs for years. Solutions are presented but will the council and mayor accept them? Are managed camps the way to go? Can a military solution relieve the city of this issue? A fear…
Town Square: Trains, Cars & Local Food – March 1 2018
How will we get around Colorado Springs and the Front Range in the future? City Councilor and Council President Pro-Tem Jill Gaebler shares details of her work on the Passenger Rail Commission, exploring the idea of getting passenger rail service along the front range. She also discusses the desired lane addition to I-25 between Monument…
Council Matters: Public Safety – Feb 26 2018
Is Public Safety given the proper priority by the city of Colorado Springs? Colorado Springs City Councilors Bill Murray and Tom Strand along with their guest, Bob Acker, discuss the subject. Included in the topic is: Threat, Hazard, Identification, and Risk Assessment (THIRA). Let’s add Engagement, Vigilance, Realize, Awareness training. Soft targets. Detect, deter, assist…
Town Square: Bicycling in Colorado Springs – Feb 22 2017
Do motorists own the roads in Colorado Springs? How can bicycles and cars get along? How having more bicycles on the roads saves motorists money. Lane changes in the Old North End, and the coming bike share program, PikeRide. These are among the topics as City Councilor Jill Gaebler guest-hosts with Dave Gardner on the…
Council Matters: Fire Mitigation – Feb 19 2018
Is Colorado Springs prepared for the next wildfire or flood? City Councilors Tom Strand and Bill Murray discuss with mitigation expert Bob Acker, of Ackcellent Consulting. What can the city do to be better prepared? The National Response Framework, the National Infrastructure Recovery Process, and NIMS (National Incident Management system) all impact us in Colorado…
Special: Banning Lewis Ranch Town Hall #2 – Feb 2 2018
Amendments are proposed to the Banning Lewis Ranch annexation agreement, in an effort to jump-start development on this 24,000 acre swath of the city. Colorado Springs City Council hears from the public and answers some of their questions at this town hall meeting about the proposal. Thanks to the City of Colorado Springs for making…
Special: State of the Region – Tri-Lakes Chamber of Commerce Jan 31 2018
The Tri-Lakes Chamber of Commerce annual State of the Region meeting. Terri Hayes is the President and CEO of the Chamber. Guest speakers are County Commissioners Stan VanderWerf of the El Paso County 3rd district and Darryl Glenn of the El Paso County 1st district. Additional speakers are the Mayor of Palmer Lake, John Cressman,…
Council Matters: Infrastructure, with Bob Acker
Infrastructure is the hot topic, as consultant Bob Acker joins City Councilor Tom Strand (Bill Murray is globe-trotting). Roads, bridges, security, and infrastructure protections all get some attention. It’s all intertwined with our daily lives and must be supported and maintained. You’ll find out that the cost of prevention is a lot cheaper than repairing…
Colorado Springs City Council is being asked to ease developer requirements in the Banning Lewis Ranch annexation agreement. Local citizen Dave Gardner takes the mic in the this episode to explain why the proposal needs to be reworked. “We need to assure it doesn’t kill the city budget and ensure Colorado Springs develops in a…
Special: Old/Near North End Transportation Study – Jan 18 2018
Bicycles, Pedestrians, and Cars: Will putting a square peg (bicycles) into a round hole (automobiles) work for Colorado Springs’ existing road infrastructure? Is there a workable solution for the pedestrian concerns at Colorado College? Are reduced crosswalks and signals the solution? The third in a series of public meetings to discuss how to address transportation…
SoapBox: Tom Reynolds HD19 – Jan 15 2018
Tom Reynolds, candidate for Colorado House District 19 opens up about his life, faith, and beliefs. He appears to be a people’s candidate for his concerns about water, highway expansions, the criminal justice system, drug related issues, and most importantly: Kids. Check out his website for more of his positions.(Recorded: 2018 01 15 Episode 14)
Council Matters: Antlers Park – Jan 29 2018
A soccer stadium at Antlers Park? Perry Sanders and a few business associates are suggesting this idea. Will this stadium fill the requirements for the City for Champions? Time’s running out to obtain the C4C funding help from the state of Colorado. What’s the “reverting clause?” Does the city maintain its parks adequately? The Switchbacks…
Council Matters: Trouble at Banning-Lewis Ranch – Jan 22 2018
The troubled Banning-Lewis Ranch annexation agreement amendment proposal: Is there a master plan? Are the financial projections a little too “rosy”? Has there been adequate public input and participation? Is there a shorter name for this albatross? City Councilors Bill Murray and Tom Strand discuss. Should a citizens committee be formed to scrub the pro-development…
Studio 809 Special: Banning-Lewis Ranch Town Hall – Jan 16 2017
This is the first of 3 public town hall meetings about the pending amendment of the Banning-Lewis Ranch annexation agreement. This agreement will govern decades of development in a massive area along the east side of the city of Colorado Springs. The developer who purchased most of the ranch has negotiated the proposed amendment. City…
Council Matters: Police & Public Safety – Jan 15 2017
An uptick in pedestrian accidents and crime in Colorado Springs? City Councilors Bill Murray and Tom Strand get serious about Public Safety. Bill’s experience walking with police officers and an incident he personally experienced provide an eye opener. Bill likes Community Police Involvement and Innovative Policing Procedures. What do you think? (click POST below) The…
Council Matters: Downtown Power Plant – Jan 8 2017
The dynamic duo is back from holiday break and they don’t miss a beat. Colorado Springs City Councilors Bill Murray and Tom Strand discuss the closing of the belching behemoth known as Martin Drake. Then they switch gears to converse about the blue frame, Colorado Municipal League, gas taxes, the strong mayor and – in…
Council Matters: Sexual Harassment – Dec 25 2017
Sexual harassment in the confines of the city and utilities of Colorado Springs is the hot topic taken up in this episode by Springs City Councilors Bill Murray and Tom Strand. Strand participated in sexual harassment cases as a lawyer (aka JAG) in the Air Force, giving him an interesting, informed perspective. Also: Austin, TX…
Council Matters: New Year’s Resolutions – Dec 18 2017
Colorado Springs City Councilors Bill Murray and Tom Strand share their list of New Year’s resolution. The discussion includes ballot issues, Gallagher amendment, TABOR, Banning-Lewis Ranch annexation, Martin-Drake power plant, Mark Waller, strong mayor concept, toll lanes, council staff, parks; public safety, housing and leadership. Click POST below and let us know your thoughts (Episode…
Council Matters: Banning-Lewis Ranch – Dec 11 2017
Leave it to Bill Murray and Tom Strand to go toe to toe on Banning-Lewis Ranch. The annexation agreement is one of the bones of contention. Stormwater is in for another round. Is there a conflict for one of the council members? The stormwater fee issue has not been settled. Why does Colorado Springs foot…
Studio 809 Specials: Drake Power Plant Decommissioning Town Hall Dec 5 2017
Colorado Springs Utilities Board hears from the public about potentially closing the Martin Drake Power Plant earlier than currently planned. This public meeting was held on December 5, 2017. Thanks to the City of Colorado Springs for sharing this audio.
Council Matters: Strawberry Fields & Martin Drake – Dec 4 2017
More hot topics this week with Colorado Springs City Councilors Bill Murray and Tom Strand. Strawberry Fields is back on the agenda: questions surrounding the property appraisal. Martin Drake power plant, that belching behemoth in the center of Colorado Springs, is another hot topic: To close or not to close? That is the question. What…
Studio 809 Specials: Money in Local Politics – League of Women Voters
Gary Fornander, Jane Ard-Smith and Peg Perl of the League of Women’s Voters discuss the impact of outside money and special interest money on local politics in Colorado Springs. Well worth the listen. (Recorded 2017 11 18)
Council Matters: Tourism in Colorado Springs Nov 20 2017
Discussions of tourism kick off today’s program. The USOC Olympic Museum is first and Bill Murray and Tom Strand take different positions. They also disagree on a proposed stadium (that refuses to die). City for Champions, tax increment financing, Lodging Auto Rental Tax, Colorado Springs Convention & Visitors Bureau, the Chamber of Commerce and Economic…
Council Matters: Election Results November 2017
Talk about getting down in the weeds on the ballot issues that just passed in Colorado Springs, Bill Murray and Tom Strand take you through the jungle exposing what was really voted on. Will the widened I-25 be a toll road? Yep! They talk about it. Additional costs over and above what has been touted?…
CityTalk: Bicycling in C Springs
Did you know Colorado Springs is one of the great bicycling locations in the world? Senior Bike Planner Kate Brady joins City Councilor Jill Gaebler for a lively discussion of bicycling issues. The city’s newly proposed Bike Plan is now out for public review and comment. See the plan and learn about public meetings at…
Council Matters: Homelessness November 6 2017
Council member Bill Murray was confronted about homelessness at a recent meeting. Surprise! Surprise! There is a problem when an urban renewal project starts and all the current inhabitants (homeless) are moved out of their current domiciles. Thefts, sleeping on porches, opioid issues, neighbors wanting a police presence (only to find out there are not…
Council Matters: Nov City/County Election Oct 30 2017
Why do some people go to the polls while others don’t bother to exercise their right to vote? Ballot issues, stormwater, toll roads, money, and voter engagement are all teed up by Colorado Springs city councilors Bill Murray and Tom Strand in this episode. Listen to Bill get on a rant about 2/3 of the…
Council Matters: Hillside Public Safety October 23 2017
Bill & Tom are holding a Town hall meeting 10/26 6:00 pm at city hall. The two astute city councilors discuss the recent Hillside community meeting with subjects that included public safety, code enforcement, and marijuana use on the public streets. “Is there an ordinance against that?” asked several members of the audience. Does the…
We the People: Guns Oct 16 2017
Electra Johnson and Tracie Powell on their first outing together really get on a roll about guns and gun violence; and they put the passion into passionate. This segment rated NC-17 and should be listened to only under adult supervision. Recorded 10/4/17
Council Matters: City Budget Oct 16 2017
Bill Murray and Tom Strand are serious in this episode. Why? They’re working on the 2018 budget of Colorado Springs. Are the mayor’s revenue projections too rosy? Also: funding for vehicle maintenance, parks. stormwater, police and fire. Plus:What will move the public to vote? Should school boards be required to have senior participants to bring…
Colorado Issues & Answers: Joe Salazar Oct 13 2017
Joe Barrera’s show expands and gets a new name. In this episode, Joe visits with Colorado State Representative Joe Salazar, candidate for Colorado Attorney General. Joe Barrera was held up in traffic, so Gary Casimir launches the conversation and Joe soon steps in.
CityTalk Oct 11 2017
Jill Gaebler’s reelection campaign for Colorado Springs City Council in April required her to take a break from podcasting, but she is back! Jill and Jan reminisce about the 2017 city election, they discuss a lot of good news in the Mayor’s proposed 2018 city budget, and the upcoming vote on the proposed stormwater fee.…
Council Matters: Marijuana Madness October 2 2017
If you thought the last episode of Council Matters had adrenalin pumping, wait till you catch this one. Recreational Marijuana, using the funds for the homeless, 2019 ballot, and consumption clubs (no, it’s not like getting Consumption – you know, the progressive wasting away of the body especially from pulmonary tuberculosis). Listen to find out…
Council Matters: Stormwater September 25 2017
Council members Bill Murray and Tom Strand turn up the heat in this episode discussing the “should we, shouldn’t we” on stormwater and roads. Tom’s Energy Vision for Colorado Springs Utilities is discussed, and how real world downsizing and outsourcing affected Colorado Springs. (Recorded 9/22/17) Post a comment below and let us know what you…
Council Matters: Stormwater #46 Sept 5 2017
Bill Murray and Tom Strand get into a heated and somewhat testy conversation about Stormwater. The mayor is bandied about with a certain irreverence and as Bill says, “Get ready for a ride.” Do they solve the problem? No! They’re only scratching the surface. Fees, water volume, Pueblo, EPA development polling and Costa Rica (?)…
Council Matters: Civility #45 August 28 2017
Colorado Springs City Council members at large Bill Murray and Tom Strand want to get back to civility. But things happening like Charlottesville, VA, Barcelona, homelessness, the issue of marijuana, and pundits pontification all over the place, how can these two get their bearings and concentrate on civility? Listen to see if they accomplish the…
Council Matters: Marijuana #43 August 21 2017
This may be the first time urinalysis has been discussed on Council Matters. Medical Marijuana is the burning topic today as Bill Murray tries to persuade Tom Strand that Colorado Springs should legalize it. The city is leaving $16 to $24 million a year in tax revenue on the table by not allowing recreational marijuana…
Council Matters: Stormwater August 14 2017
Bill and Tom discuss the stormwater ordinance Mayor Suthers has asked City Council to put on the November ballot, creating a new fee to cover the costs of maintaining and improving stormwater infrastructure. Shouldn’t the fee be based on amount of impervious surface? Should Colorado Springs Utilities handle the billilng? Why is the Mayor popular?…
Specials: True Cost of Coal
Learn about why the external costs, those that don’t show up on your utility bill but we all pay for in other ways — make coal as an energy source much more costly than you may have known! 350 Colorado Springs presents two speakers on the social, health and environmental impacts of burning coal in…
Council Matters:
They’re at it again – discussing things you won’t hear at council meetings. Tom & Bill discuss Red Light cameras (being considered by Chief Carey). Plus: Should council put recreational marijuana to a vote? There’s a lot crammed into this 40 minute segment with Colorado Springs city councilors Bill Murray and Tom Strand. (recorded 7/28/17)
Council Matters: Public Safety July 24 2017
Our two astute council members, Bill Murray and Tom Strand, plod through the swamp of funding and the problems of Public Safety. Why are citizens reluctant to adequately fund Public Safety? Don’t they want that 911 call to be answered? Or that emergency vehicle to respond in a timely manner. Get your answers in this…
We the People: Mike Callicrate – Local Food
Electra is joined by Mike Callicrate from Ranch Foods Direct www.mikecallicrate.com to talk about local food, the power that corporations have over our food systems and what we can do about it to make our communities more resilient, independent and sovereign. Mike and Electra cover a vast array of topics relating to how local foods impact our…
Councilors Bill Murray and Tom Strand are at it again, discussing Colorado Springs issues with wit, charm and daring. No holds barred when discussing Stormwater issues that face the city – including EPA lawsuit, Pueblo lawsuit, and the difficulty of financing Stormwater infrastructure. Does the City have the leadership to make Stormwater happen? Listen and…
We the People #2 June 29 2017
Since the November election, more than 40 grassroots organizations have popped up in El Paso County. Laura Kadlecek of Citizens for Hope and Ryan Barry of Unite Colorado Springs join Electra to discuss activism and “the politically homeless” in today’s trying times. Also, an invitation to join Electra at the IBEW July 1 for the…
We the People #1 June 26 2017
Electra Johnson believes what the Democratic Party does in a conservative stronghold like Colorado Springs is more critical now than ever. Architect/urban designer, and chair of the El Paso County Democratic Party, Electra launches her new podcast, We the People, with this episode. Today, Electra shares how and why she got involved in politics, and…
Council Matters: Renewables – June 5 2017
Council members Bill Murray and Tom Strand are at it again taking on the subject of renewables in Colorado Springs. The citizen owned utility needs to get out of the coal generating business. Both agree. Looking at battery storage is one of Bill’s suggestions. It’s being done in other locales. Why not here in Colorado…
Council Matters: Senior Center – May 29 2017
Our venerable two senior council members, Bill Murray & Tom Strand, take on the happenings at the Colorado Springs Senior Center. Plus other issues that are facing the senior community like sports, insurance, driving, aging, disabilities and transit. Ever hear of the Sustainability and Support Services in Colorado Springs? Neither have they. Silver Sneakers support…
Council Matters: Election Follow-up May 1 2017
Newly elected council members, EPA lawsuit, a transit center 20 years in the making and no structure in sight, infrastructure, stormwater and a related fee to come before the voters (when?). Students think the nightlife is boring in Colorado Springs. Could they be right? Will Richard Skorman be a change agent? Time will tell!
Council Matters: Leadership – April 24 2017
Wild Bill Murray and ever so polite Tom Strand are at it again discussing the Drake Power Plant. Will widening I-25 really benefit the driving public or just add more congestion to the problem? Bill takes the position Dynamic Leadership and Static Leadership positions are needed to make an organization run smoothly. As usual, no…
Council Matters: Colorado Springs Election April 10, 2017
Bill & Tom discuss the April 4, 2017 election, the jockeying for political advantage, plus: Did council make a move to the “Dark side” as expressed by the daily newspaper?
Specials: Green Cities City Council Candidate Forum on Utilities
Meet the City Council Candidates: Colorado Springs City Council candidate forum March 16, 2017, hosted by the Green Cities Coalition. The subject: utilities. Candidates present: Don Knight, David Geislinger, Richard Skorman, Melanie Bernhardt, Andy Pico, Janak Joshi. Thanks to the Energy Working Group of the Green Cities Coalition
SoapBox – Solarize the Springs Update – March 15 2017
Kyle Lisek, of the Southern Colorado Clean Cities Coalition, and Tristan Bohnen of Environment Colorado provide an update on the electric vehicle and solar group power purchase program for the Pikes Peak region. (recorded 3/13/17) For more information contact Katie or Kyle.
Council Matters – Vows – March 13 2017
In the last podcast Bill & Tom talked about promises. Today they discuss their vows in a very forward-looking conversation.
Council Matters – 2 Years and Promises – March 6 2017
Starting with the completion of 2 years on council and promises made during their campaigns, Bill & Tom go off the rails from there with discussions on storm water fees, park and recreation funding, 911 response times, priorities, and de-TABORing.
SoapBox: Colorado Springs City Council Candidates Reviewed
Local citizen/activists Gary Casimir and Dave Gardner review the candidates for Colorado Springs City Council in the April 2017 election and offer their recommendations. Included is analysis of what the endorsements and financial support of the candidates should tell us – particularly with regard to Colorado Springs Forward and the Housing & Building Association of…
Council Matters: Uber, Short-Term Rentals – Feb 27 2017
Short Term Rentals-should they pay taxes? Vetting Uber, Lyft, Air B&B. Is speaking to city council a last resort? Lack of enforcement of existing ordinances and laws. Accountability of city government from the mayor’s office on down.
SoapBox: New Solar Group Power Purchase Pgm – Feb 23 2017
Katie Otterbeck of Environment Colorado and Kyle Lisek of Southern Colorado Clean Cities fill us in on a new group power purchase program to bring discounted solar power to the Pikes Peak region – solar panels and/or electric vehicles. For more information contact Katie or Kyle.
Council Matters – Leadership – February 20 2017
Leadership: different approaches and lack thereof.
Council Matters – Honesty in Local Government – February 13 2017
Is there honesty, trust, truth coming from the Executive branch of city government? Bill and Tom discuss.
Council Matters – Priorities – February 6 2017
What are the priorities for the City of Colorado Springs? Are the candidates for city council trustworthy? Collaboration between council and the mayor.
SoapBox: White Conservative Friends – February 3 2017
Do your beliefs really line up with your religion? Gary Casimir reads a commentary by John Pavolvitz.
SoapBox – Utilities Secrets
You’ve read or heard bits and pieces. Now get the full story from local clean air advocate Jim Riggins and resident Laura Van Der Pol. Colorado Springs Utilities (CSU) refused to release publicly funded air quality models that show dangerous levels of sulfur dioxide. A concerned mother (Leslie Weise) took them to court. Now CSU…
Council Matters – January 26 2016 – Olympic Museum
Does the Olympic Museum have local support? Is the financing coming up short? Will private funding come to the rescue?
Council Matters – January 19 2016
The April 2017 elections and candidates are discussed. It’ll be a horserace between the myriad of candidates.
Council Matters – January 12 2016
Technology libraries in all schools, Colorado Springs Utilities governance, responsibility to electorate, Issue 300, Payment in Lieu of Taxes, doing away with city council, and more. Not the place to nap!
Council Matters – January 5 2017
Bill Murray is back in full swing with co-host Tom Strand. On the agenda: Colorado Springs council candidates, community connections, dialog-concerns-issues, 3 minute comments at council meetings, and more.
Council Matters – December 22 2016
Wants for 2017: Council election in 2017, Utilities governance, focus on Broadband build out, Separate Parks & Rec with own funding source, Shook’s Run project (25 years?) Public transport, low income housing, jobs. Your comments (below) are welcome! Let us know what you think, and what you’d like to hear about on future episodes.
Council Matters – Year in Review – December 16 2016
Reflecting on 2016. The relationship with the mayor, environment, collaboration & cooperation, broadband, and the Code Scrub Group.
CityTalk – December 9 2016
Jill’s campaign kickoff event, campaign issues like police and fire response times, responsible development, infill, local food policy. Should Jill and Jan start a commune? Co-housing for older residents? The “silver tsunami.” Jill was not ready for the barrage of mail from AARP when she recently turned 50. The upcoming CONO Christmas party. Jan’s plans…
SoapBox: Don’t Limit Citizen Appeals of Land Use Decisions
Walter Lawson’s comments to Colorado Springs City Council about a proposed amendment to add significant limits to citizens’ ability to appeal land use decisions by the City Planning Commission. Council is expected to vote on this December 13, 2016.
Council Matters – December 8 2016
City Councilor Andy Pico fills in for Bill Murray for this discussion of the 54 volunteer committees, boards, and commissions that make up the city of Colorado Springs support organizations.
Council Matters: December 1 2016
20 Years Into The Future: Fellow councilor Andy Pico joins host Tom Strand. Today’s discussion includes Colorado Springs in 20 years. Transportation, Cyber employment, housing, utilities.