Cortez, CO

City Council Work Session

The City Council will conduct a tour of the Cortez Fire Protection District. The meeting also includes a general discussion and a review of Montezuma County Board of Commissions meeting minutes.

• Tour of Cortez Fire Protection District
• Review of Montezuma County Board of Commissions minutes from September 15, 22, and 29, 2026

City Council Regular Meeting

The City Council will discuss awarding a contract for the 2026 Comprehensive Plan Update and consider a historic designation for a building on West Main Street. The body will also review liquor license applications and revisions to mobile food vendor licensing.

• Contract award for 2026 Comprehensive Plan Update to Sno-Engineering, Inc. (dba SE Group)
• Ordinance 1377 for Historic Designation of 209 West Main Street
• Ordinance 1371 regarding annual licensure for mobile food vendors
• New Tavern Liquor License for Junction Enterprises LLC (The Junction) at 309 North Broadway
• CHFA Notification for Park Village on 7th affordable rental development

City Council Regular Meeting

The Cortez City Council will hold a regular meeting with consent items, public hearings, and new business. Key actions include considering a new liquor license, a conditional use permit for a carport, historic designations for two buildings, a resolution on spending authority limits, and adopting the 2026 Water System Master Plan. The council will also consider an intergovernmental agreement with Montezuma County regarding property at 309 North Broadway.

• Public hearing on new Fermented Malt Beverage and Wine Liquor License for UPOP Holdings LLC, DBA Gopher (Store #49), at 2410 Fairway Drive
• Public hearing on Conditional Use Permit and Minor Deviation for a carport encroaching into front and side setbacks
• Second reading of Ordinance No. 1376, Series 2026, for Historic Designation of Garland Home building at 120 East North Street
• First reading of Ordinance No. 1377, Series 2026, for Historic Designation of building at 209 West Main Street
• Resolution No. 14, Series 2026, superseding Resolution No. 34, Series 2001, amending spending authority limits

City Council approved a long-term water infrastructure plan and updated city procurement spending limits. The council also granted several liquor licenses and designated the Garland Home as a historic resource.

• Adopted 2026 Water System Master Plan (7-0)
• Approved updated procurement spending authority limits via Resolution No. 14 (7-0)
• Approved new Retail Fermented Malt Beverage and Wine Liquor License for UPOP Holdings LLC (7-0)
• Approved Historic Designation for the Garland Home at 120 E. North Street (7-0)
• Approved conditional use permit and setback deviation for carport at 1411 Montelores Avenue (7-0)
• Authorized agreement with Montezuma County for jurisdiction over 309 North Broadway (7-0)
• Approved first reading of Historic Designation for 209 West Main Street (7-0)
• Approved liquor licenses for Loungin' Lizard and Mi Mexico via consent agenda (7-0)

City Council Work Session

The Cortez City Council is holding a work session with an executive session to discuss the Municipal Judge Beth Padilla contract and negotiations regarding the Fiber Express Line, followed by an informational presentation on the Green Ash Beetle's impact on park ash trees. The meeting also includes general council discussion before adjournment.

• Executive session on Municipal Judge Beth Padilla contract
• Executive session on Fiber Express Line negotiations
• Presentation on Green Ash Beetle impacts on park ash trees
• General council discussion at 7:15 p.m.

The City Council received an informational presentation on emerald ash borer management and tree treatment plans from Parks and Recreation staff. The Council also voted to enter an executive session to discuss the municipal judge's professional service contract and Fiber Express Line negotiations, but took no formal action before adjourning.

• Entered executive session regarding municipal judge contract and Fiber Express Line (7-0)

City Council Regular Meeting

The Cortez City Council will meet Sept. 8, 2026 at 7:30 p.m. to conduct routine business including approval of minutes, expenditures, and special event permits. The meeting will also include a proclamation for Suicide Awareness Prevention Month and a second reading of an ordinance amending the Land Use Code.

• Approval of meeting minutes from Aug. 25, 2026
• Approval of Expenditure List for Sept. 8, 2026
• Approval of two Special Event Permits to Fundamental Needs Inc. for Sept. 13 and Oct. 23, 2026 at 209 W. Main St
• Consideration of Ordinance 1376 for Historic Designation of Garland Home at 120 East North Street
• Consideration of $50,000 LPC grant contract amendment with State of Colorado

The Cortez City Council approved on second reading Ordinance No. 1374, revising the Land Use Code to align with state statutes and clarify standards, with amendments allowing posts in setbacks for awnings and referencing city-defined undesirable weeds. The council also approved first reading of a historic designation for the Garland Home, authorized the mayor to accept $50,000 in state housing grant funds, and set a public hearing for a new liquor license application. All votes were unanimous (7-0).

• Approved Ordinance No. 1374, Series 2026, revising the Land Use Code (7-0)
• Approved amendments to allow posts in setbacks for three-foot awnings and clarify weed list references (7-0)
• Approved first reading of Ordinance No. 1376, historic designation for Garland Home at 120 E. North St., with second reading set for Sept. 22, 2026 (7-0)
• Authorized Mayor to sign Grant Agreement Amendment #2 accepting $50,000 from DOLA for housing (7-0)
• Set public hearing for Sept. 22, 2026, for liquor license for UPOP Holdings LLC DBA Gopher Store #49 (7-0)
• Approved consent agenda including minutes, expenditure list, and two special event permits (7-0)
• Authorized proclamation declaring September as Suicide Awareness Prevention Month (7-0)

City Council Work Session

The Cortez City Council is holding a work session/special meeting that begins with a tour of the Cortez Municipal Airport, followed by a general council discussion at 7:15 p.m. The agenda contains no specific action items, ordinances, or contracts; it is limited to the tour and open discussion.

• Tour of Cortez Municipal Airport
• 7:15 p.m. general council discussion

The Cortez City Council held a work session on September 8, 2026 that included a tour of the Cortez Municipal Airport, where Airport Director Kyle Sloan discussed ongoing and future construction and improvement projects including the apron expansion and the runway project. Council also discussed advertising and phishing emails received on city-issued email accounts, with direction that emails of interest can be forwarded to the City Manager. No substantive decisions, votes, or approvals are recorded in these minutes; the session was adjourned at 7:18 p.m.

Planning and Zoning Commission

The Planning and Zoning Commission will hold a public hearing on Resolution No. 8, Series 2026, a conditional use permit and minor deviation for 1411 Montelores Avenue. The meeting also includes approval of minutes from the August 4, 2026 meeting and public participation limited to non-agenda items.

• Public hearing: Resolution No. 8, Series 2026 — Conditional Use Permit and Minor Deviation for 1411 Montelores Avenue
• Approval of minutes from 8/04/2026 meeting

City Council Regular Meeting

The Cortez City Council will hold a regular meeting with a consent agenda, public hearings, and new business. Key items include a site plan approval, a first reading of a land use code ordinance, and awarding a drainage improvement project contract. The meeting also includes appointments to committees and routine license and permit approvals.

• Resolution No. 15, Series 2026: site plan for 127 N. Market Street
• Ordinance 1374, Series 2026: first reading of changes to Cortez Land Use Code
• Award of 2026 Montezuma-Sligo Drainage Improvement Project – Phase 2 to Dave & Lana Waters, Inc. dba D&L Construction
• Renewal of Retail Liquor Store License for Tubros LTD, DBA Cork N Bottle, 443 East Main Street
• Special event permits for Southwest Colorado Youth Baseball, Cortez Celtic Fair Oktoberfest, and Chamber of Commerce Business After Hours

The Cortez City Council approved a contract for the 2026 Montezuma-Sligo Drainage Improvement Project – Phase 2, awarding it to Dave & Lana Waters, Inc., dba D&L Construction, at their bid of $116,481.50. The council also approved a site development plan for a new office building at 127 N. Market Street, passed the first reading of a Land Use Code update ordinance, and made appointments to the Parks and Recreation Master Plan Project Committee and the Airport Advisory Committee. All votes were unanimous (6-0) with Councilmember Randle absent.

• Approved $116,481.50 contract for Montezuma-Sligo Drainage Phase 2 to D&L Construction (6-0)
• Approved site development plan for office building at 127 N. Market St. (6-0)
• Approved first reading of Ordinance No. 1374 revising Land Use Code (6-0)
• Selected Councilmember Lewis as primary representative to Parks and Recreation Master Plan Committee (6-0)
• Appointed Grant Wright as youth member to Airport Advisory Committee (6-0)
• Approved consent agenda including liquor license renewals and special event permits (6-0)

City Council Work Session

The Cortez City Council is holding a work session to discuss several items, including a contract for Municipal Judge Beth Padilla, an Airport Advisory Committee youth applicant interview, an update on the 7th Street property, and a draft ordinance revising mobile food vendor licensing. The meeting also includes general discussion and information items.

• Executive session on Municipal Judge Beth Padilla contract
• Airport Advisory Committee youth applicant interview with Grant Wright
• 7th Street Property Update by Jason Armstrong
• Ordinance No. 1371, Series 2026 - discussion on mobile food vendor licensure revisions
• Minutes from Montezuma County Board of Commissioners meetings (July 28, Aug 4, Aug 11)

The Council held an executive session to discuss Municipal Judge Beth Padilla's contract, with no formal action taken. Staff provided updates on the 7th Street affordable housing project and a draft ordinance for mobile food vendor licensing, both for discussion only. No substantive decisions were made during the work session.

• Held executive session on Judge Beth Padilla's contract (7-0, Osborn absent)
• No formal action taken during executive session
• Discussed 7th Street affordable housing project update
• Discussed draft ordinance for mobile food vendor licensing

City Council Regular Meeting

The Cortez City Council will hold a public hearing on Ordinance No. 1375, which sets the ballot title for a proposed 4% increase in the city's Lodger's Tax, to be submitted to voters at the November 3, 2026 general election. The council will also consider accepting a 2026 Certified Local Government grant from History Colorado, a notice of termination of a Fixed Base Operator Lease and Operations Agreement, and an amendment to the City Attorney's employment agreement increasing compensation. The consent agenda includes routine approvals such as the expenditure list, meeting minutes, and liquor and marijuana license renewals.

• Public hearing on Ordinance No. 1375: 4% Lodger's Tax increase ballot question for Nov. 3, 2026 election
• Acceptance of 2026 Certified Local Government (CLG) Grant from History Colorado
• Notice of Termination of Fixed Base Operator Lease and Operations Agreement
• Amendment to 2026 City Attorney Employment Agreement to increase compensation
• Consent agenda: Brew Pub Liquor License for L&D Development Inc. DBA J Fargos (1209 E. Main St.), Retail Marijuana Center renewal for Green Kiwi 4 LLC DBA LivWell (1819 E. Main St.), Brew Pub Liquor License and Outdoor Dining Agreement for WildEdge Brewing Collective (111 N. Market St.)

The City Council approved on second reading Ordinance No. 1375, placing a 4% lodger's tax increase (from 2% to 6%) on the November 3, 2026 ballot. The vote was 5-2, with Councilmembers Randle and Swope dissenting. The council also approved the consent agenda, accepted a $24,937 grant for a historic properties survey, authorized termination of the airport FBO lease, and approved a pay raise for the City Attorney.

• Approved Ordinance No. 1375 placing 4% lodger's tax increase on Nov. 3 ballot (5-2)
• Approved consent agenda as amended (7-0), including liquor licenses and minutes
• Accepted $24,937 CLG grant from History Colorado for property survey (7-0)
• Authorized termination of FBO lease with Cortez Flying Service (7-0)
• Approved City Attorney compensation increase to $175,572 (7-0)

City Council Work Session

This is a work session/special meeting, not a regular decision-making meeting. The council will tour the Cortez Water Treatment Plant starting at 5:45 p.m., followed by general discussion at 7:10 p.m. and a 'For Your Information' segment. No specific action items, ordinances, or contracts are listed on the agenda.

• Tour of Cortez Water Treatment Plant, leaving City Hall at 5:45 p.m.
• Council general discussion at 7:10 p.m.
• For Your Information segment

The City Council held a work session at the Cortez Water Treatment Plant, touring the facility and discussing recommended upgrades identified in the Draft Water Master Plan. No formal decisions were made; the session was informational only.

Planning and Zoning Commission

The Planning and Zoning Commission will hold a public hearing regarding a major site plan for a specific property. The body will also review a draft resolution and report on recently issued permits.

• Public hearing for Resolution No. 6, Series 2026: Major Site Plan for 127 N. Market St
• Review of draft Resolution No. 7, Series 2026
• Report on permits issued from 4/16 through 7/15/2026

The Planning and Zoning Commission voted unanimously to recommend City Council approve a site development plan for a new one-story office building at 127 N. Market St. The commission also discussed a draft resolution on virtual meeting attendance, deciding to refine the language for the next meeting. No other substantive decisions were made.

• Approved Resolution No. 6, Series 2026 recommending site plan approval for 127 N. Market St. (5-0)
• Approved agenda for August 4, 2026 (5-0)
• Approved minutes of July 7, 2026 meeting (5-0)
• Discussed draft resolution on virtual meeting attendance; tabled for further work

City Council Regular Meeting

City Council will discuss a proposed voter authorization for a Lodger's Tax increase and an intergovernmental agreement for the 2026 General Election. The body will also consider budget amendments and the purchase of a new truck for the Street Division.

• Ordinance No. 1375: Proposed 4% increase in the City's Lodger's Tax for the Nov 3, 2026 election
• Resolution No. 13: Agreement with Montezuma County Clerk and Recorder for the 2026 General Election
• Purchase of a new 1-ton dually truck for the City Street Division to replace Unit #992
• Ordinance No. 1372: Second reading of an amendment to the 2026 Budget
• Renewal of Medical Marijuana Center license for Durango Organics, LLP (DBA DO Cortez) at 1013 East Main Street

The Cortez City Council approved on first reading Ordinance No. 1375, Series 2026, setting the ballot title and content for voter authorization of a four percent (4%) increase in the City's Lodger's Tax, to be submitted at the general election on November 3, 2026. The increase would raise the rate to six percent (6%) on short-term rentals only, including hotels and short-term rental units. The ordinance was set for a public hearing and second reading on August 11, 2026. Council also approved several other items, including a budget amendment for the South General Aviation Apron Expansion project, the purchase of a 2027 F-350 truck for the Streets Division, and appointments to the Airport Advisory Committee.

• Approved first reading of Ordinance No. 1375, Series 2026, setting ballot title for a 4% Lodger's Tax increase for the November 3, 2026 election (6-0, Osborn absent)
• Approved second reading of Ordinance No. 1372, Series 2026, authorizing a budget amendment and appropriation for the South General Aviation Apron Expansion project (6-0, Osborn absent)
• Approved purchase of a 2027 F-350 for the Public Works Department, Streets Division, from San Tan Auto Partners, LLC for $80,928.41 (6-0, Osborn absent)
• Approved second reading of Ordinance No. 1370, Series 2026, amending City Code on Airport Advisory Committee member qualifications and term limits (6-0, Osborn absent)
• Approved Resolution No. 13, Series 2026, calling for a coordinated election and approving an intergovernmental agreement with the Montezuma County Clerk and Recorder for the November 3, 2026 General Election (6-0, Osborn absent)
• Approved appointments to the Airport Advisory Committee: Eddy Lewis and Bernard Karwick (three-year terms), Robert Wright and Chris Caciagli (two-year terms), Brian Lyons (one-year term) (6-0, Osborn absent)
• Approved the policy 'Guidelines and Requirements for Council Proclamations' and directed its immediate implementation (6-0, Osborn absent)
• Approved the Consent Agenda, including minutes, expenditure list, a special event permit for the Cortez Area Chamber of Commerce, and a medical marijuana license renewal for Durango Organics, LLP (6-0, Osborn absent)

City Council Work Session

The City Council will hold a work session to review a draft presentation of the Water System Master Plan. The meeting also includes interviews for the Airport Advisory Committee.

• Water System Master Plan Draft Presentation
• Airport Advisory Committee interviews for Bernard Karwick, Chris Caciagli, and Brian Lyons

The City Council held a work session where they interviewed three candidates for the Airport Advisory Committee and reviewed the first draft of the Water System Master Plan. No formal votes were taken; the plan is still under review and will be refined with public and Council input. Council also discussed rescheduling facility tours.

• Interviewed Bernard Karwick, Chris Caciagli, and Brian Lyons for Airport Advisory Committee (no appointment made)
• Reviewed first draft of Water System Master Plan (no formal action taken)
• Discussed rescheduling facility tours: water plant to Aug 11, airport to Sep 8, fire dept to Oct 13 (subject to availability)

City Council Work Session

The City Council will conduct interviews for the Airport Advisory Committee. The session also includes a discussion regarding the intended purpose and use of Lodger's Tax.

• Airport Advisory Committee interviews: Eddy Lewis, John Hernandez, David Bostrom, and Robert Wright
• Discussion on Lodger's Tax intended purpose/use
• Teen Court information presented by Judge Beth Padilla

City Council reached a consensus to propose increasing the lodger's tax to 6% and directed staff to refine ballot language with a TABOR attorney. The council also reviewed a new Teen Court program and interviewed four applicants for the Airport Advisory Committee.

• Directed staff to refine ballot language for a proposed 6% lodger's tax increase
• Scheduled first Teen Court session for August 17
• Interviewed four Airport Advisory Committee applicants; decisions deferred to next meeting
• Tabled Empire Building project pending staff capacity

City Council Regular Meeting

The City Council will consider several liquor license renewals and new applications. The agenda also includes various municipal contracts for airport maintenance, park master planning, and recreation center repairs.

• Awarding the 2026 Parks and Recreation Master Plan to Kimley-Horn and Associates, Inc. for $193,000
• Awarding the 2026 Recreation Center Hardwood Floors Repair Project to Sport Court of the Rockies LLC for $55,422
• Considering a competitive quote to replace the Airport leach field with Ramco Developments, LLC
• Public hearing for a new Hotel and Restaurant Liquor License for Pitchers on Main LLC
• Public hearing for a Tavern Liquor License renewal for Sierra's LLC, DBA Patron

City Council denied the tavern liquor license renewal for Sierra’s LLC (DBA Patron) due to tax delinquency and conduct issues. The council also approved a new liquor license for Pitchers on Main LLC and authorized funding for airport expansion and repair projects.

• Denied tavern liquor license renewal for Sierra’s LLC DBA Patron (5-2)
• Approved new hotel and restaurant liquor license for Pitchers on Main LLC (7-0)
• Approved Ordinance No. 1369 to implement Charter changes regarding council compensation and meeting locations (7-0)
• Approved CDOT Aeronautics Grant Resolution for South Apron Expansion Project (7-0)
• Awarded Airport Leach Field Replacement Project to Ramco Developments, LLC for $47,375 (7-0)
• Approved Consent Agenda including multiple liquor license renewals and special event permits (7-0)

Planning and Zoning Commission

The commission will hold a public hearing regarding Land Use Code Revisions under Resolution No. 5, Series 2026. Members will also receive an overview of the City of Cortez Comprehensive Plan and SB24-174 requirements.

• Public hearing for Resolution No. 5, Series 2026, Land Use Code Revisions
• Overview of the City of Cortez Comprehensive Plan and SB24-174 requirements
• Discussion on upgrading the Comprehensive Plan
• Call for volunteers for Historical Preservation Board and Board of Adjustment vacancies

The Planning and Zoning Commission recommended approval of the proposed Land Use Code revisions, with two exceptions: allowing 3-foot sidewalks for infill situations and requiring decks and patios to meet all setbacks. The motion passed 3-2. The commission also made appointments to boards and discussed future planning items.

• Recommended approval of Land Use Code revisions with exceptions for 3-ft sidewalks and deck setbacks (3-2)
• Approved agenda for July 7, 2026 (5-0)
• Approved minutes of May 5, 2026 meeting (3-0, 2 present)
• Appointed Bruce Burkett to Historic Preservation board
• Appointed Rich Landreth to Board of Adjustment and Appeals

City Council Regular Meeting

The scheduled regular meeting of the Cortez City Council for June 23, 2026, has been canceled.

City Council Work Session

The City Council will conduct interviews for the Parks, Recreation and Forestry Advisory Board and the Planning & Zoning Commission. The session also includes a discussion regarding the lodgers tax.

• Interview of Neco Escoe for the Parks, Recreation and Forestry Advisory Board
• Interview of Bruce Burkett for the Planning & Zoning Commission
• Lodgers Tax discussion

City Council discussed increasing the current 2% lodger's tax and broadening its allowable uses. Staff was directed to provide ordinance language and timing for a potential November ballot question. No formal votes were taken on the tax increase.

• Directed staff to return with ordinance language and timing for a potential lodger's tax ballot question

City Council Regular Meeting

The City Council will consider a $294,000 budget amendment for park and golf course irrigation. Other items include a memorandum of understanding for affordable multifamily rental housing on West 7th Street and various building code amendments.

• $294,000 budget amendment for city water to irrigate parks and the golf course
• Memorandum of Understanding with Evergreen Redevelopment West LLC for affordable housing on West 7th Street
• Conditional Use Permit for a permanent accessory structure at 1626 Rolling Road
• Amendment to City Code to implement Charter changes from the April 7, 2026 election
• Adoption of 2024 ICC, 2023 NFPA, and 2023 Colorado Model Electric/Solar Ready codes

City Council approved a budget amendment to use potable water for irrigation during a drought and adopted updated building, fire, and energy codes. Council also granted a conditional use permit for an oversized accessory structure at 1626 Rolling Road. Several liquor license renewals and special event permits were approved.

• Approved $294,000 budget amendment for potable water irrigation (7-0)
• Adopted 2024 ICC, 2023 NFPA 70, and 2023 Colorado Electric/Solar Ready codes with waiver process (5-2)
• Approved Conditional Use Permit for accessory structure at 1626 Rolling Road (5-1, 1 recused)
• Approved special event permits for Fundamental Needs Inc. July 3-4 celebration (7-0)
• Approved liquor license renewals for Tequila’s, Ocean Pearl Chinese Restaurant, and West Slope Liquors (7-0)
• Approved liquor sales room application for DuWest Wines LLC (7-0)
• Approved change in premises for El Campestre Mexican Restaurant LLC (7-0)

City Council Work Session

The City Council will hear a Comprehensive Economic Development Strategy presented by Laura Lewis Marchino of Region 9. The council will also conduct interviews for applicants seeking positions on several city boards and committees.

• Comprehensive Economic Development Strategy presentation by Laura Lewis Marchino
• Historic Preservation Board applicant interviews
• Library Advisory Board applicant interview
• Planning & Zoning Commission applicant interview
• Parks, Recreation, and Forestry Advisory Board applicant interviews

The Cortez City Council held a work session with no formal votes or decisions. Region 9 presented its economic development strategy, reporting $320,000 in gap-financing loans supporting 85 jobs and a ten-to-one return on Cortez's dues. The council interviewed applicants for the Historic Preservation Board, Library Advisory Board, Planning & Zoning Commission, and Parks, Recreation, and Forestry Advisory Board; no appointments were made.

• No formal decisions or votes taken during the work session
• Heard Region 9 presentation on economic development strategy
• Interviewed applicants for Historic Preservation Board, Library Advisory Board, Planning & Zoning Commission, and Parks, Recreation, and Forestry Advisory Board

City Council Regular Meeting

The City Council will consider several items including a budget amendment for water irrigation and the adoption of updated building codes. The agenda also includes road repaving projects, vehicle purchases, and various liquor license approvals.

• Ordinance 1366: E-Cargo Bike Grant Award for Police Department fleet expansion
• Ordinance 1367: Adoption of 2024 ICC, 2023 NFPA, and 2023 Colorado Model Electric/Solar Ready codes
• 2026 Micro-surfacing Project bid award to A-1 Chipseal Company
• Repaving of East Montezuma Avenue from North Washington Street to North Market Street
• Budget Amendment: $294,000 for potable water irrigation of City parks and golf course

The Cortez City Council approved on first reading a new building code package (Ordinance 1367) adopting 2024 ICC codes, 2023 NFPA 70, and the 2023 Colorado Model Electric Ready and Solar Ready Code, with a second reading set for June 9. The council also awarded a $147,840 micro-surfacing contract to A-1 Chipseal Company, approved a $205,450 partnership with the Cortez Sanitation District to repave a portion of East Montezuma Avenue, and accepted a proclamation declaring June 2026 as LGBTQ+ Pride Month in a 5-2 vote. Other actions included approving a $48,770 purchase of a used transit van, a $294,000 budget amendment for park irrigation water, and several board appointments.

• Approved first reading of Ordinance 1367 adopting 2024 ICC codes, 2023 NFPA 70, and 2023 Colorado Model Electric Ready and Solar Ready Code (6-1)
• Awarded 2026 Micro-surfacing Project to A-1 Chipseal Company at $147,840 (7-0)
• Approved partnership with Cortez Sanitation District to repave west-bound lane of East Montezuma Avenue for $205,450 (7-0)
• Approved purchase of 2019 Ford Transit T350XL van from Davey Coach Sales for $48,770 (7-0)
• Approved first reading of Ordinance 1368 appropriating $294,000 for potable water to irrigate parks and golf course (7-0)
• Accepted proclamation declaring June 2026 as LGBTQ+ Pride Month (5-2)
• Approved appointments: Richard Landreth to Planning & Zoning, Abel Berrada to Library Advisory Board, Linda Towle and Jennifer Dimond to Historic Preservation Board (7-0)
• Approved canceling June 23, 2026 council meeting for CML conference (7-0)

City Council Work Session

The City Council will hold a work session featuring CIRSA Councilmember Training presented by Sam Light. The meeting also includes a period for Council General Discussion.

• CIRSA Councilmember Training presented by Sam Light
• Council General Discussion

The Cortez City Council held a work session featuring a training presentation by Sam Light from the Colorado Intergovernmental Risk Sharing Agency (CIRSA), the city's insurance carrier. The training covered council responsibilities, including fiduciary duties, transparency, ethics, and decision-making distinctions. No substantive decisions were made; the session was informational only.

City Council Regular Meeting

The City Council will consider several public hearings regarding accessory structures and encroachment permits. Additionally, the council will discuss a letter of support for HomesFund and a potential lease of surplus municipal water to the Dolores Water Conservancy District.

• Conditional Use Permit for an accessory structure at 1626 Rolling Road
• Conditional Use Permit for an accessory structure at 525 South Market Street
• Encroachment Permit application for 906 North Market Street
• Appropriation of Housing Planning Grant Program funds into the FY2026 budget
• Ordinance to accept a Colorado Energy Office E-Cargo Bike Grant for the Police Department

The Cortez City Council continued the conditional use permit hearing for a 1,600 sq. ft. detached garage at 1626 Rolling Road to June 9, 2026, requiring additional site plans and renderings. The council also continued a permit for 525 South Market Street due to square footage discrepancies, approved an encroachment permit for 906 North Market, and approved a $33,750 state grant appropriation for a housing planning grant. No other substantive decisions were made.

• Continued conditional use permit for 1,600 sq. ft. garage at 1626 Rolling Road to June 9 (6-0, Osborn recused)
• Continued conditional use permit for garage addition at 525 South Market Street to May 26 (7-0)
• Approved encroachment permit for rock retaining wall at 906 North Market (7-0)
• Appropriated $33,750 HPLN grant into 2026 budget (7-0)
• Authorized Mayor to sign letter of support for HomesFund grant application (7-0)
• Approved first reading of ordinance accepting $23,500 E-Cargo Bike Grant (6-0, Osborn recused)
• Authorized City Manager to negotiate and sign surplus water lease with Dolores Water Conservancy District (7-0)

Planning and Zoning Commission

The Commission will hold public hearings regarding an encroachment permit and two conditional use applications for accessory structures. Additionally, the body will review a cash-in-lieu land dedication study to recommend fee schedule amendments to the City Council.

• Encroachment Permit application for 906 North Market Street
• Conditional Use Application for an accessory structure at 1626 Rolling Road
• Conditional Use Permit application for an accessory structure at 525 South Market Street
• Review of the 2026 Cash-in-lieu Dedication Study

City Council Regular Meeting

Cortez City Council will swear in five newly elected members, select a mayor and mayor pro tempore, and receive a briefing on water supply conditions affecting local services. The council will consider awarding an airport apron expansion contract to improve local airfield capacity, appropriate Housing Planning Grant Program funds for the 2026 budget, and approve a Microsoft software licensing agreement with Colorado. A public hearing addresses transferring a retail marijuana license at LivWell on East Main Street, while routine business licenses are processed via the consent agenda.

• Ordinance No. 1365 appropriates Housing Planning Grant Program funds into the 2026 operating budget
• Apron Expansion Project contractor award recommendation for the Cortez airport
• Public hearing on transferring a retail marijuana license from Pharmacann Inc to Vireo Health of Mile High LLC at LivWell, 1819 East Main Street
• Resolution No. 8 authorizes participation in Microsoft Corporation’s Volume Licensing Agreement with Colorado
• Consent agenda includes liquor and marijuana license renewals for businesses on West Main Street, South Broadway, Patton Street, and a special event permit for the Chamber of Commerce

The April 28, 2026 meeting saw the swearing-in of newly elected council members and the election of Dennis Spruell as mayor and Bill Lewis as mayor pro tem. The council approved a consent agenda, a retail marijuana license transfer, a Microsoft licensing agreement, an airport apron construction contract, and a grant appropriation ordinance on first reading. A ballot measure on term limits failed in the April 27 election.

• Elected Dennis Spruell as Mayor and Bill Lewis as Mayor Pro Tem (secret ballot)
• Approved consent agenda including liquor license renewals and special event permit (7-0)
• Approved transfer of retail marijuana store license to Vireo Health of Mile High LLC (6-0, Wolf recused)
• Approved Resolution No. 8 for Microsoft Volume Licensing Agreement (7-0)
• Awarded $1,527,055.28 airport apron expansion contract to Elevated Excavating (7-0)
• Approved first reading of Ordinance No. 1365 appropriating $33,750 HPLN grant (7-0)
• Scheduled City Council retreat for May 28, 2026 (7-0)
• Appointed Wolf and West to attend CML conference, Spruell as alternate (7-0)

City Council Work Session

The scheduled work session for the Cortez City Council on April 28, 2026, was cancelled. No items were discussed or decided.

City Council Work Session

The City Council will conduct public arts youth interviews and an executive session. The meeting also includes a general discussion period.

• Public Arts Youth Interviews: Will Blair
• Public Arts Youth Interviews: Ava Anderson
• Executive Session

The City Council interviewed two applicants for a youth position on the Public Arts Committee and then held an executive session to discuss strategy for selecting a developer-builder for a housing project on West 7th Street. No formal decisions were made during the meeting; the executive session was for discussion only.

• Interviewed Will Blair for youth Public Arts Committee position (no vote)
• Interviewed Ava Anderson for youth Public Arts Committee position (no vote)
• Moved into executive session to discuss housing developer selection (6-0, Keefauver absent)
• No formal action taken during executive session

City Council Regular Meeting

The City Council will consider ordinances regarding compensation for the City Manager and City Attorney, as well as the creation of an airport advisory committee. Additional business includes a fuel system decommission bid, a vehicle purchase, and special event permits.

• Ordinance No. 1362: Employment agreement and compensation for City Manager Drew Sanders
• Ordinance No. 1363: Employment agreement and compensation for City Attorney J. Patrick Coleman
• Ordinance No. 1364: Creation of an airport advisory committee
• Bid award for the 2026 Service Center Upper Yard Fuel delivery System Decommission to Advanced Petroleum Repair, LLC
• Purchase of a new 1-ton pickup truck for the City Street Division

The Cortez City Council approved second readings of ordinances setting compensation for City Manager Drew Sanders at $191,776 and City Attorney Patrick Coleman at $174,342, both effective April 13, 2026. The council also created an airport advisory committee, awarded a $38,215 bid to Advanced Petroleum Repair LLC for the 2026 Service Center Upper Yard Fuel Delivery System Decommission, and tabled a vehicle purchase for the City Street Division to resubmit for bids. All votes were 6-0 with Mayor Medina absent.

• Approved Ordinance 1362 setting City Manager salary at $191,776 (6-0)
• Approved Ordinance 1363 setting City Attorney salary at $174,342 (6-0)
• Approved Ordinance 1364 creating airport advisory committee (6-0)
• Awarded fuel system decommission bid to Advanced Petroleum Repair LLC at $38,215 (6-0)
• Tabled City Street Division vehicle purchase to resubmit for bids (6-0)
• Appointed Will Blair as youth member and Ava Anderson as alternate to Public Arts Committee (6-0)
• Approved consent agenda including liquor license renewals and special event permits (6-0)

City Council Regular Meeting

The Cortez City Council will consider several items, including the adoption of Ordinance No. 1361 to implement the 2025 Colorado Wildfire Resiliency Code. The council will also review and vote on multiple contract awards for infrastructure projects and employment agreements for senior officials. Additional routine items on the consent agenda involve liquor license renewals and special event permits.

• Adopt Ordinance No. 1361, Series 2026 – 2025 Colorado Wildfire Resiliency Code
• Award 2026 Concrete Cost-Share Project to Candelaria Construction, Inc.
• Award 2026 Service Center Roof Replacement Project to PRQ Topline LLC (d/b/a Topline Installers)
• Approve Harrison Street Waterline Project estimate from RAMCO Developments, L.L.C.
• Adopt Ordinance No. 1362, Series 2026 – employment agreement and compensation for City Manager Drew Sanders

The Cortez City Council approved the 2025 Colorado Wildfire Resiliency Code on second reading, awarded contracts for the 2026 Concrete Cost-Share Project and Service Center Roof Replacement, and accepted an estimate for the Harrison Street Waterline Project. The council also advanced three ordinances on first reading: updating the city manager's and city attorney's employment agreements with new compensation, and creating an Airport Advisory Committee. All votes were unanimous among the five present members, with two members absent.

• Approved Ordinance 1361 adopting the 2025 Colorado Wildfire Resiliency Code (5-0)
• Awarded 2026 Concrete Cost-Share Project bid to Candelaria Construction Inc. for $268,513 (5-0)
• Awarded 2026 Service Center Roof Replacement Project to PRQ Topline LLC (5-0)
• Accepted Harrison Street Waterline Project estimate from RAMCO Developments for $42,260 (5-0)
• Approved first reading of Ordinance 1362 setting City Manager salary at $191,776 (5-0)
• Approved first reading of Ordinance 1363 setting City Attorney salary at $174,342 (5-0)
• Approved first reading of Ordinance 1364 creating an Airport Advisory Committee (5-0)
• Approved consent agenda including liquor license renewals and special event permits (5-0)