Cortez City Council moved another step closer Tuesday night to approving a ballot measure that would give the city the option to provide its own internet, telecommunications and cable services to residents.
Other council business involved waiving liquor license renewal fees for local businesess impacted by the pandemic and setting a public hearing for reviewing the license of a marijuana cultivation facility. Council members also passed a motion allowing for “hybrid” city council meetings in which members have the option to show up in person, along with a select few members of staff.
The Colorado General Assembly passed a bill in 2005 that prohibited municipal governments from providing their own “specialized services,” which include things like high-speed internet, telecommunications and cable. The bill was considered to be a way to protect private industry. The bill does, however, allow municipal governments to create a ballot initiative that would, if passed, reestablish the right to provide their own specialized services.
City Council voted unanimously Tuesday evening to approve the ordinance on first reading and set a date for a public hearing on Feb. 23.
Cortez City Attorney Mike Green emphasized that passing the ballot measure did not necessarily mean the city was going to provide the services, but that it gave Cortez the ability to explore the option and learn more about the potential cost.
“It’s not a commitment to spend any money,” Green said. “It’s not a commitment to provide the services, but it would authorize the city to look into expanding the fiber network into the residential areas of the city.”
Council also voted unanimously to waive liquor license renewal fees for certain local businesses that have been hit particularly hard by the pandemic. According to City Clerk Linda Smith, 27 liquor licensees would receive their $175 city fee back.
“It’s a small token, but it’s all we could do, really, on our side,” Smith said.
Liquor stores and major chains will not have fees waived because they have been allowed to stay open as essential businesses.
“I think we should do everything we can to help the small businesses,” said Mayor Mike Lavey. “The chains and the liquor stores are doing really good business, even during COVID. But the small businesses and restaurants have had to cut back on occupancy, and they’ve lost business. They deserve all the help we can give them.”
Council also scheduled a public hearing for March 9 to review a new cultivation facility license for marijuana dispensary Chronic Therapy.
In a near-unanimous vote, council passed a motion allowing for members who feel comfortable returning to chambers to do so. Those who aren’t will continue to conduct city business remotely. Select city staff will also be able to attend future meetings in person.
“I think there are some members on council who would like to be back in chambers, myself included.”
Doors will remain closed for the general public, with citizen participation to be conducted online. Council intends to explore potential options that would allow for citizen participation to be conducted safely at City Hall.
“I think there are some members on council who would like to be back in chambers, myself included.”
Mayor Pro tem Rachel Medina also made clear that basic safety protocols will remain in place.
“Just because we’re meeting in person, that doesn’t mean we’re not going to socially distance or wear our masks,” Medina said.
anicotera@the-journal.com