PUEBLO WEST, Colo.

The Pueblo West Metropolitan District Board of Directors reviewed the draft capital-improvement program for fiscal 2026 and discussed whether to delay or continue projects including the indoor aquatic center, Civic Center administration building and Fire Station 1 remodel.

District staff said most projects on the list are repairs or one-time capital investments with relatively modest ongoing operational costs; the proposed budget already reflects the projects. Directors debated whether design and RFP costs for the admin building should be deferred until after the November elections and wider clarity on sales-tax measures. Several board members said the district has funds available now for projects and that pausing projects is not necessary unless the board decides to change course following November results.

District Manager Christian and staff identified three items of particular timing risk: design costs for the administration building, continued work on the indoor pool design for cost efficiencies, and rolling funds for Fire Station 1 and two fire trucks (noting some purchases are rollovers already included in the current budget). One director suggested prioritizing local architects on forthcoming RFPs to keep design costs competitive and to retain tax dollars in-county.

No board action was taken at the work session. Staff were asked to maintain the proposed project list for inclusion in the December adopted budget process unless the board provides different guidance; staff will track any design expenditures and report back if the board directs a postponement.

The board's capital spending conversation was framed by members'comments that external factors such as county ballot items and a proposed fire-sales tax ("6A") could affect fund balances and public optics of district spending.