In a sweet start to the Black Hawk City Council meeting on September 11, 2024, Eddie Miller, owner of Hi-Heat & Sweets, rang the ceremonial bell.
Miller, fondly known around town as the “Candyman,” and referred to on their Facebook page as “Papa Candy,” runs the popular shop that brings sugary delights and a touch of whimsy to Gregory Street.
After Miller’s spirited ring, Mayor David Spellman led the room in a moment of silence, paying tribute to the victims of the September 11, 2001, terrorist attacks.
The council quickly moved into its agenda, focusing on the future of the City’s historic heart. A key area of business revolved around a series of resolutions concerning the rehabilitation of the property at 311 High Street.
Ryan Meredith of WCG Construction and Cynthia Linker from the Community Planning and Development Department presented a detailed proposal for the rehabilitation of 311 High Street.
This project, which has been in the works since the design phase earlier this year, aims to breathe new life into the historic residential property.
The council unanimously approved Resolution 75-2024, authorizing Amendment No. 1 to the existing construction contract with WCG Construction. This amendment will fund the extensive restoration work at 311 High Street, with a budget not to exceed $1,477,700.32.
The restoration includes both exterior and interior improvements, supported by a Historic Preservation Easement Agreement and a Rehabilitation Grant Program Agreement..
Linker said that the preservation efforts for 311 High Street would include both exterior renovations, totaling $1,001,598.61, and interior improvements funded by a grant of $476,101.71. The preservation easement, once completed, will be recorded with Gilpin County, securing the building’s historic status in perpetuity.
During the presentation, Linker highlighted that the city’s partnership with WCG Construction has been successful on previous projects, like those at 187 Clear Creek and 121 Marchant Street. The team’s experience and dedication to maintaining the city’s architectural integrity were key factors in their continued involvement with the 311 High Street project.
Additionally, the council approved temporary construction easements that will allow the city and WCG Construction access to neighboring properties for the duration of the rehabilitation.
In other business, the council passed Resolution 74-2024, which amends the commercial lease with JKQ Consolidated, LLC, for property located at 200 Gregory Street. This amendment allows the company continued use of a City lot and extends a utility credit of $600 per month for another year. It also clarifies the City’s responsibilities for snow removal.
The meeting concluded with a slight change to the executive session, with City Attorney Corey Hoffman advising on potential litigation and legislative matters related to City-owned land on Gregory Hill.
The meeting adjourned into Executive Session at approximately 3:20 p.m.
The next regular meeting of the Black Hawk City Council is scheduled for September 25, 2024, at 3 p.m. in the Council Chambers located at 211 Church Street, Black Hawk, Colorado.
