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Residents press Colfax on deteriorating buildings, youth programs and nonprofit coordination
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Summary
During public comment, residents raised concerns about deteriorating properties and the unmarked old TAPS building, urged stronger oversight of grant recipients, and proposed expanded youth programming and coordinated nonprofit efforts; city staff promised follow-up and inspections.
Public comment at Colfax’s April 9 town hall focused heavily on local quality-of-life issues, including deteriorating buildings, safety near an old TAPS structure, and ideas for youth programming and nonprofit coordination.
Sharon Conners (Sharon Conners) told the council several properties around town appear to be deteriorating and that she could not find posted building permits. She said the old TAPS building no longer has caution tape and that the exposed site could pose a danger, especially to children. “There’s no caution tape around anymore…they did move some boards but we’ve walked past that every day for over a year,” Conners said, asking how the city will ensure safe removal or repair.
A city staff member responded that an inspector would follow up and that staff had previously sent letters requiring property owners to address unsafe conditions; staff said they would have an inspector (Joe) call the resident to discuss specifics and next steps. The council did not take any enforcement vote at the town hall but committed to follow up with staff work and inspection activity.
Residents also urged more programming for children and families and suggested bringing nonprofits together to coordinate funds and events. Speakers proposed reviving an activity/improvement center model, expanding community-center programming, and supporting efforts such as a returning scout troop. One local business owner, Wendy Lowry (Wendy Lowry) of the Cole Fox Hotel, offered to host community events such as ice-cream socials and movie nights to foster neighborhood engagement.
Speakers asked for greater accountability on grant money distributed to local nonprofits. A resident requested financial statements from grant recipients so the public can track how funds are spent; the council acknowledged the concern and said distribution practices and oversight can be reviewed.
What happens next: City staff agreed to have an inspector follow up on the specific building concerns raised and to bring budget and grant-oversight questions into upcoming council discussions; council also said it will compile suggestions for next town hall topics and outreach to nonprofits.
