The local historic landmark designation of three drainage drop structures was approved at Town Council’s Sept. 19 meeting.
Here is a closer look:
McMurdo Gulch drop structures — Preserving structures of historic significance helps build community character. In the 1930s, three drop structures were built in what’s now northeast Castle Rock by the Civilian Conservation Corps. The structures, located at the southern intersection of Castle Oaks Drive and Autumn Sage Street in the Terrain neighborhood, are made of local rhyolite stone and range from about 7.5 feet to 15 feet in height. They are used to help with drainage by passing water to a lower elevation while controlling the energy and velocity of the water as it passes over.
Due to age and erosion, the drop structures are now in need of rehabilitation. A cultural survey identified the drop structure site to have historic significance, which could make the site eligible for a State Historical Fund grant that would help finance the rehabilitation of this important stormwater erosion-control infrastructure.
An intergovernmental agreement with Douglas County was approved by Council at Tuesday’s meeting, as two of the structures are located partially in County jurisdiction. The IGA allows the Town to exercise jurisdiction over the landmark process for the site.
Town Council also approved the emergency adoption of an ordinance that designates the drop structures site as a local historic landmark. With approval, the site becomes eligible for grant funding. Castle Rock Water intends to submit a grant application to assist in the restoration of the infrastructure.
Also on the agenda, Council directed the Town Attorney to prepare an ordinance amending Title 9 of the Castle Rock Municipal Code to prohibit public indecency, indecent exposure and public nudity. Council also directed staff to amend Town policies, permits and agreements for the use and rental of Town facilities to require compliance with Town ordinances concerning public indecency, indecent exposure and public nudity as a condition of rental.
Town Council also expressed its support for the Douglas County School District’s mill levy override and bond ballot initiatives (approved 5-2, For: Gray, Bracken, Hollingshead, LaFleur, Dietz; Opposed: Cavey, Brooks).
Additionally, Council proclaimed the week of Sept. 18 Castle Rock Mental Health Co-responders and Crisis Clinicians Week in recognition of and with gratitude to all those working in these roles in Castle Rock and beyond, who ensure the best possible outcomes to difficult mental health situations.
Watch the meeting: https://castlerock-co.granicus.com/player/clip/1642
Coming up
The next regular Town Council meeting is Tuesday, Oct. 3. Visit CRgov.com/CouncilComments between Sept. 28 and Oct. 3 to provide written feedback, or to sign up to speak via videoconference during the meeting. The meeting will be available live at CRgov.com/CouncilMeeting. In-person attendance will also be available.
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