Record of Proceedings
Foothills Park & Recreation District Special Board of Directors meeting
August 25, 2026
A virtual attendance option was made available through Microsoft Teams.
Call to Order
Director Trimble called the regular meeting to order at 6:00 p.m.
Pledge of Allegiance
Director Trimble led those in attendance in the Pledge of Allegiance to the Flag of the United States of America.
Roll Call
Directors Present: Lodice, Brainard, Writz, Trimble. Directors Absent: Hanson.
Also in Attendance: Ronald Hopp, Executive Director; Paul Rufien, District Counsel; Dennis Weiner, Director of Finance and Administrative Services; Becky Richmond, Director of Recreation; Derek Eberhardt, Assistant Director of Recreation; Colin Insley, Director of Parks, Planning and Construction; Randy Meyers, Director of Golf; Bethany Fields, Recording Secretary; other Foothills staff and members of the public, including representatives of the Westridge HOA.
Potential conflicts of interest were disclosed pursuant to Colorado Revised Statutes 18-8-308(2), 24-18-109(3)(a), 24-18-110, and 32-1-902(3).
Approval of Agenda
Motion: Director Writz moved that the Foothills Board of Directors approve the August 25, 2026 agenda as submitted. Director Lodice seconded the motion. Poll of the Board: Director Lodice, yes; Director Brainard, yes; Director Writz, yes; Director Trimble, yes. The motion was approved.
Approval of Previous Meeting Minutes
Motion: Director Writz moved that the Foothills Board of Directors approve the minutes of the July 28, 2026 Board meeting as submitted. Director Lodice seconded the motion. Poll of the Board: Director Lodice, yes; Director Brainard, yes; Director Writz, yes; Director Trimble, yes. The motion was approved.
Community Comments
Lynne Zimmerman, speaking on behalf of the Westridge HOA, requested that the District’s Master Plan include a commitment to the long-term health, appearance, and usability of Blue Heron Park and the Beers Sisters Reservoir. Ms. Zimmerman discussed concerns regarding reservoir water levels and encouraged the District to evaluate long-term solutions and improvements for the area.
Kerry Schaper provided information regarding the annual volunteer partnership project at Sunrise Creek Park. The project, scheduled for September 12, 2026, will include playground construction, park maintenance, and beautification efforts supported by community volunteers. The Board expressed appreciation for the volunteer partnership and ongoing community support.
Decision Items
Resolution No. 26-001 – Jefferson County Open Space Trails Partnership Program Grant Application
Colin Insley presented Resolution No. 26-001 authorizing submission of an application to the Jefferson County Open Space Trails Partnership Program for funding assistance related to trail improvements around Hine Lake. Mr. Insley reviewed the proposed project scope, anticipated grant funding, public outreach efforts, and community survey results. Board members discussed accessibility improvements, trail surface options, preservation of natural character, and public feedback.
Motion: Director Writz moved that the Foothills Board of Directors approve Resolution No. 26-001 authorizing application for the Jefferson County Open Space Trails Partnership Program 2027 Grant. Director Brainard seconded the motion. Poll of the Board: Director Lodice, yes; Director Brainard, yes; Director Writz, yes; Director Trimble, yes. The motion was approved.
Executive Director’s Report
Highlighting the report provided, Mr. Hopp discussed the following:
- The District has begun the public engagement process for development of a new Master Plan in partnership with BerryDunn. A statistically valid survey has been distributed to randomly selected residents, and additional outreach opportunities are available through online surveys, community events, and other engagement efforts.
- The District’s Employee Appreciation BBQ was held on August 5, 2026, with approximately 350 employees and family members attending.
- Staff recently met with residents regarding concerns about low water levels at the Beers Sisters Reservoir. Mr. Hopp explained that the reservoir’s current condition is primarily the result of ongoing historical drought conditions and the District’s junior water rights. Staff have consulted with the District’s water engineer and attorney regarding potential opportunities and future considerations.
- Mr. Hopp informed the Board that representatives of the Ken-Caryl community had expressed interest in maintaining a shared greenbelt area currently maintained on an alternating basis. Staff will continue discussions and return to the Board with additional information if an agreement is pursued.
- Mr. Hopp welcomed Bethany Fields in her new role as Recording Secretary and announced that Colin Insley has established a retirement date following 38 years of service to the District. The Board congratulated Mr. Insley and expressed appreciation for his contribution.
Discussion Items
Item 1: Finance Update
Dennis Weiner presented the District’s financial update through July 31, 2026. He reviewed year-to-date operating revenues, operating expenditures, operating loss, and non-operating revenues and expenditures.
Highlighting the report provided, he went over total District year-to-date operating revenues, total year-to-date operating expenditures, net operating loss, non-operating revenues and expenditures.
Looking at the bottom line through July 31st, Mr. Weiner concluded net revenue was better than planned.
Adjournment
The regular meeting adjourned at 6:53 p.m.
Submitted by: Bethany Fields, Recording Secretary