Two members of the Pueblo Metro Bomb Squad were injured Thursday morning after an explosive device detonated during an evidence-processing procedure at the Pueblo Police Department’s bomb range, officials said.

The incident occurred at approximately 10:35 a.m. Feb. 12, while Explosive Ordnance Disposal technicians and para-technicians were working to render safe a device that had been seized as part of an ongoing criminal investigation.

According to the city, the device inadvertently detonated during the process.

One officer suffered first- and second-degree burns. A second officer sustained first-, second- and third-degree burns. Both were immediately transported for medical care.

The officer with third-degree burns was transported to a burn unit in Denver and remains hospitalized. The other officer was treated and released. Officials said the injuries are not life-threatening.

“Today is a difficult day; two of our team members were injured while serving the community of Pueblo,” Pueblo Police Chief Chris Noeller said in a statement. “We’re holding them close in our hearts and will stand beside them through the recovery process.”

Authorities emphasized there was no danger to the public at any time during the render-safe procedure. The explosion occurred at the department’s designated bomb range, a secured facility used specifically for handling and neutralizing explosive materials. No other officers or community members were injured.

The Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives is assisting local authorities in examining the device and supporting the ongoing criminal investigation. Additional updates are expected as more information becomes available.

A specialized regional unit

The Pueblo Metro Bomb Squad serves the city of Pueblo and surrounding jurisdictions across Southern Colorado. The unit is composed of highly trained law enforcement officers certified in explosive ordnance disposal, often referred to as EOD. These specialists are called upon to assess, disarm and safely dispose of explosive devices, suspicious packages and other hazardous materials.

Bomb squad work is among the most technically demanding and dangerous assignments in law enforcement. Technicians undergo extensive federal training and must recertify regularly. The job requires expertise in chemistry, electronics and mechanical systems, as well as a disciplined approach to risk management.

In addition to responding to potential threats, the team supports criminal investigations by processing explosive devices as evidence. That work can include carefully dismantling devices to preserve fingerprints, wiring configurations and other forensic details that may be critical to prosecution.

The squad also conducts training exercises and community outreach, educating the public and partner agencies on explosive safety and awareness. Its work is often conducted quietly and out of public view, unless an incident prompts a visible response.

Thursday’s incident underscores the inherent risks involved in handling live explosive materials, even in controlled environments designed for safety.

City officials said support is being provided to the injured officers and their families. Law enforcement agencies across the region have expressed solidarity with the bomb squad team as recovery efforts continue.

The investigation into the device and the circumstances of the detonation remains ongoing.

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Story and photos by Gregory Howell

Story and photos by Gregory Howell

The State of the City looked and felt different this year, and that difference was intentional.

Rather than a traditional seated address alone, Mayor Heather Graham transformed the ballroom at the Pueblo Convention Center into something closer to a civic open house, blending formal remarks with hands-on engagement, storytelling through video and face-to-face conversations with city departments.

City offices lined the perimeter of the room, from Parks and Recreation and Public Works to Police, Fire, Housing and Citizen Services. Residents moved freely between tables before and after the address, asking questions, meeting staff and learning how city services operate day to day. Light refreshments were offered throughout the evening, a small but meaningful gesture that reinforced the event’s welcoming tone and sense of shared appreciation.

The mood was lively, upbeat and distinctly communal, more town hall than lecture. Applause was frequent, conversations continued long after the speech ended, and the evening carried an air of celebration rooted in visible progress and collaboration.

A city-centered approach

Graham opened the evening by welcoming returning attendees and first-time guests alike, noting that the new format was designed to spotlight both accomplishments and partnerships, not just city government activity. She framed the evening as an opportunity to reflect on 2025, acknowledge challenges and outline priorities for 2026.

The mayor reiterated the core commitments of her administration: improving public safety, addressing the needs of unhoused residents and enhancing quality of life through beautification and infrastructure investment. Those priorities, she said, guide every decision made at City Hall and across departments.

That framing carried through the program, which alternated between live remarks and short, professionally produced videos that allowed department leaders, community partners and residents themselves to speak directly about the work underway.

Quality of life and visible progress

Early segments focused on quality of life, highlighting Pueblo’s cultural amenities, outdoor recreation and growing reputation as a welcoming destination. Speakers in the videos described a community that combines access to nature, arts and education with a sense of closeness often missing in larger cities.

Projects such as the Historic Arkansas Riverwalk expansion, Water Works Park and downtown revitalization efforts were cited as examples of collaboration across agencies and organizations. The mayor highlighted recognition for the Boathouse and Channel Extension Project, recently named a finalist for a Downtown Colorado Inc. Excellence Award, as a sign of Pueblo’s growing statewide profile.

Beautification efforts received particular attention. Graham pointed to communitywide cleanup events that filled 82 dumpsters and removed 130 tons of trash in May alone, along with expanded pothole repair, paving projects and stormwater infrastructure investments across the city.

“These are the kinds of improvements people see and feel every day,” Graham said, emphasizing that maintaining streets, parks and public spaces is central to pride of place and community well-being.

Addressing the needs of unhoused residents

One of the most powerful moments of the evening came through a video offering an inside look at Pueblo’s public shelter operations for unhoused residents.

The segment walked viewers through the facility, showing sleeping areas, meal spaces, clothing storage, laundry facilities and peer support rooms. Shelter staff explained daily operations and partnerships with organizations including SafeSide Recovery, Catholic Charities of Southern Colorado and the Community Health Center.

Two residents, Patrick and Vanessa, shared personal stories of recovery, stability and hope. Patrick described participating in peer support programs and work opportunities that helped him build accountability and job skills. Vanessa spoke about the relief of having a safe place after months of living outdoors.

Graham noted that 2025 marked the first full year Pueblo was able to offer emergency shelter 24 hours a day, 365 days a year, something the city had not previously been able to do.

The city finalized an agreement last year for SafeSide Recovery to manage shelter operations, with unanimous City Council support. Upcoming improvements include expanded transitional housing with private units, enhanced security fencing and accommodations that allow residents to remain with their pets.

The segment drew sustained applause and was widely discussed among attendees afterward, reflecting both its emotional impact and the community’s interest in understanding how services are delivered.

Public safety gains and partnerships

Public safety formed another central theme of the address, with Graham highlighting reductions in crime and significant infrastructure investments.

According to data presented during the address, overall Part One crimes declined by 5 percent in 2025, and Pueblo recorded its lowest homicide rate since 2019. The mayor credited proactive policing strategies, investments in technology and collaboration across departments for those results.

The Real-Time Crime Center, which integrates license plate readers, ShotSpotter technology and civilian analysts, was cited as a key tool. Graham also acknowledged the city’s grant writers and IT department for securing funding and supporting system upgrades.

Police staffing remains a challenge, with ongoing vacancies, but recruitment and retention improved in 2025, including the largest academy graduation since 2019.

Fire Department achievements were also highlighted, including the completion of three new fire stations on the west, north and east sides of the city. The facilities were designed with firefighter health and safety in mind, incorporating modern ventilation systems, updated equipment and dedicated training spaces.

A video segment introduced the newly formed Pueblo Police Foundation, established by local business leaders to support officer wellness, recruitment and community engagement.

Parks, transit and economic development

Additional videos and remarks highlighted accomplishments across parks, transit and economic development.

Pueblo Transit’s Veterans Ride Free program, which allows military veterans to ride fixed-route and paratransit services at no cost with identification, was described as both a practical benefit and a gesture of gratitude. The launch of a new vanpool initiative and temporary fare-free transit for SNAP recipients during a federal government shutdown underscored the city’s responsiveness to community needs.

Parks and Recreation updates included the opening of Water Works Park and the revitalization of the Slab, a historic recreation site now featuring artist-designed courts that celebrate Pueblo’s steel mill heritage.

Economic development segments emphasized collaboration with local businesses, workforce training through Pueblo Community College and new job announcements at PuebloPlex. Building permit activity increased significantly in 2025, reflecting growth in both residential and commercial development.

At the same time, Graham acknowledged ongoing budget constraints, including a continued shortfall addressed through position freezes, departmental reductions and efforts to expand the tax base. She emphasized transparency and the importance of balancing fiscal responsibility with essential services.

Final reflections and what was not said

As the evening concluded, Graham thanked City Council members past and present, city staff, community partners and residents. She marked her two-year anniversary as mayor with humility, noting the pace and complexity of the work.

Notably absent from the evening was any acknowledgment of the Pueblo Economic Development Corp., commonly known as PEDCO. Several projects highlighted during the program, including the aviation technical training initiative at the Pueblo Memorial Airport, were originally conceived, developed and advanced by PEDCO years before their recent expansion. That history was not referenced during the address or in the accompanying videos, nor was it mentioned by Pueblo Community College leadership, despite PEDCO’s long-standing role in workforce development and business attraction in the region.

Graham closed by inviting attendees to remain and continue conversations with departments throughout the open house portion of the evening, reinforcing the event’s emphasis on accessibility and connection.

For many in attendance, that invitation captured the spirit of the night. The State of the City was not just a report, but a shared experience that emphasized transparency, participation and collective progress.

As one attendee said while speaking with city staff near the end of the evening, “This feels like a city that wants you to be part of what comes next.”

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In 2021, when the first group of founders began talking seriously about launching a new newspaper in Pueblo, the response was predictable.

People told us we were crazy.

Across the country, local newspapers were closing at an alarming rate. Longstanding publications were shrinking, merging or disappearing entirely. Entire counties were becoming “news deserts,” places with little or no access to consistent, original local reporting. Communities were losing watchdogs, record keepers and trusted sources of civic information.

Against that backdrop, the idea of starting a nonprofit local newspaper in Pueblo seemed, to many, unrealistic at best.

But it was precisely that moment that made the work feel necessary.

The data since then has only reinforced that urgency. Over the past five years, hundreds of local newspapers have shut down nationwide. Tens of millions of Americans now live in communities served by only one news outlet or none at all. When local news disappears, research shows civic engagement declines, misinformation spreads more easily, and accountability erodes. Decisions still get made, but fewer people are watching.

Pueblo cannot afford to be one of those places.

From the beginning, the mission of the Pueblo Star Journal has been simple: provide consistent, independent, service-oriented journalism focused on Pueblo County, and make it accessible to as many people as possible. That mission has not changed. What has evolved is how we deliver that work and how we collaborate to strengthen it.

Today, we are proud to announce a new partnership with SeeGov that directly supports that mission and expands our ability to cover local government in meaningful, transparent ways.

Local government decisions shape daily life in Pueblo, from housing and infrastructure to education, public safety and economic development. Yet city council, county commission and board meetings can stretch for hours, making them difficult for many residents to attend or follow in full. The result is often a gap between decisions being made and public understanding of how or why they happened.

To help close that gap, the Pueblo Star Journal launched Pueblo Watch, a dedicated local government column that appears in both our print and digital platforms. Pueblo Watch is jointly bylined by Gregory Howell, Molly Cotner and Jayson Peters and focuses on explaining what happened, what was decided and why it matters, without jargon or spin.

Pueblo Watch also lives beyond the page.

The column is supported by a dedicated Pueblo Watch playlist on the Pueblo Star Journal’s YouTube channel, where readers can watch curated highlights from official government meetings. Rather than replacing full recordings, these highlights help residents quickly find the moments that matter most, with added context and explanation.

Our partnership with SeeGov strengthens this work by allowing our newsroom to more efficiently identify, review and share those key moments while keeping human judgment and editorial responsibility at the center of the process. The technology supports the work, but the choices remain ours.

This approach reflects a broader belief that local news today must meet people where they are while still honoring the values that make journalism trustworthy: accuracy, transparency and accountability.

That same belief is guiding our next step.

In February, the Pueblo Star Journal will enter final testing of the MyPSJ mobile app, a new platform designed to bring our print, digital, video and audio reporting together in one place. The app is not about pushing more noise into already crowded feeds. It is intentionally designed to encourage readers to slow down, listen, explore and learn about Pueblo through local voices.

Inside the app, readers will find reporting from local writers, content creators and producers who care deeply about this community and the stories that define it. From Pueblo Watch to arts coverage, neighborhood reporting and long-form storytelling, the goal is simple: make local news easier to access and more meaningful to engage with, right in the palm of your hand.

We know that attention is scarce and trust must be earned. That is why every decision we make, from partnerships to platforms, is guided by a single question: does this help our community better understand itself?

We are still a little crazy. That part has not changed.

But it is the kind of crazy rooted in care, responsibility and optimism. The belief that local news is not a relic of the past, but an essential public service that must be reimagined to survive and serve.

Thank you for supporting local news in Pueblo. Your trust makes this work possible, and it makes our community stronger.

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The first Pueblo City Council meeting of 2026 opened with ceremony, reflection and a clear message from both new and returning council members: the year ahead will require collaboration, patience and sustained civic engagement.

The Pueblo Star Journal attended the opening session to welcome newly elected councilors and hear directly how all seven members of council introduced themselves to the community they serve. While the full meeting record will be available as part of Pueblo Watch on the Pueblo Star Journal YouTube channel, the opening remarks offered residents an early look at priorities and leadership styles that may shape city governance in the coming year.

The meeting began with proclamations honoring Martin Luther King Jr. Day and Pueblo Crime Stoppers Community Safety Recognition Day, reinforcing themes of nonviolence, public safety and civic responsibility before council members turned to their individual introductions.

Selena Ruiz Gomez, At-Large: Shared governance and leading the work sessions

Newly elected Selena Ruiz Gomez, serving in an at-large position, opened her remarks by emphasizing shared governance and public participation.

“When I decided to run for city council, I said this isn’t going to be my seat,” Ruiz Gomez said. “It’s our seat.”

She encouraged residents from every part of Pueblo to remain engaged, saying community voices strengthen public decision-making. Ruiz Gomez thanked council leadership for embracing collaboration and said voters were clear in calling for a different approach to governance.

In addition to her role as an at-large councilor, Ruiz Gomez will lead the City Council work sessions, where policy discussions, briefings and preliminary deliberations take place outside of formal voting meetings. Those sessions often shape legislation before it reaches the council dais.

Ruiz Gomez framed the year ahead around collective ownership, describing council not as a closed body but as a table where Pueblo residents are invited to sit, speak and participate in shaping city policy.

Brett Boston, At-Large: Transparency, patience and long-term change

Councilor Brett Boston, serving in an at-large role, focused his remarks on transparency and the realities of municipal government.

Boston cited homelessness, blight and vacant properties as persistent challenges, while also acknowledging structural limits on council authority related to taxation and property assessment. He urged residents to recognize that progress often unfolds incrementally rather than overnight.

Elected as the youngest council member to serve in Pueblo’s history, Boston said he hopes to represent residents with transparency and creativity. He outlined a vision centered on collaboration with the mayor’s office, county commissioners and community partners, calling for a renewed approach to city leadership.

“Government takes time,” Boston said, asking residents for patience as longer-term projects move forward.

Dianne Danti, District 1: Focused on commitments

Councilor Dianne Danti, representing District 1, kept her remarks brief, noting that many of her priorities had already been expressed by fellow council members.

“I am working on all that I campaigned on,” Danti said, adding that she has projects in mind and intends to pursue them throughout the year.

Her comments reflected a pragmatic approach, focused less on rhetoric and more on implementation as council work progresses in 2026.

Joe Latino, District 2: Responding to homelessness concerns

Councilor Joe Latino, representing District 2, directly addressed public concerns raised earlier in the meeting regarding homelessness.

Latino detailed a city-funded partnership with Catholic Charities, supported by a $200,000 council allocation, aimed at transitioning unhoused residents into employment. He said that out of an initial group of 60 participants, 20 secured full-time jobs, including several now employed by the city.

Latino emphasized that the program was modeled after successful efforts in Albuquerque and reflects Pueblo’s commitment to addressing homelessness through dignity, work and long-term stability.

“We are the home of heroes,” Latino said, adding that the city’s approach is rooted in helping people regain a sense of self-worth while contributing back to the community.

Ted Hernandez, District 3: Kindness and accountability

Newly elected Ted Hernandez, representing District 3, thanked voters from Pueblo’s south side neighborhoods, including areas surrounding Central and South high schools.

Hernandez praised city staff, first responders and fellow council members for their professionalism and support during his transition into office. He acknowledged that not every resident voted for him but pledged to earn trust through consistent work and follow-through.

“I live by a model that kindness is free and hatred is taxing to the soul,” Hernandez said, closing his remarks with a commitment to accountability, respect and service to all constituents.

Roger Gomez, District 4: Lowering the temperature

Councilor Roger Gomez, representing District 4, used his introduction to explain the complexities of serving on city council and the challenges of representing neighborhoods with vastly different economic realities.

Gomez described the steep learning curve for council members and emphasized that decisions are often made between imperfect options. He reminded residents that councilors are legally required to vote and cannot abstain without consequence.

Calling for civility, Gomez urged the public to lower the temperature of civic debate and recognize the personal toll public service can take on elected officials and their families.

“This is not easy,” Gomez said, adding that disagreement and debate, when constructive, can lead to stronger solutions for Pueblo.

Mark Aliff, At-Large and Council President: Continuity and optimism

Council President Mark Aliff, serving in an at-large role and elected by his colleagues to lead the council, closed the introductory portion of the meeting by emphasizing continuity, optimism and forward momentum.

Aliff noted that the previous council approved the vast majority of measures brought before it and said there is no reason to “hang our heads” over the past two years of work. He expressed confidence that collaboration among council members will continue and strengthen in 2026.

“Hope and excitement is the word of the day,” Aliff said, signaling confidence in the council’s ability to move forward together.

Setting expectations for the year ahead

While introductions varied in tone and length, common themes emerged: collaboration over division, transparency over posturing and patience over quick fixes.

As Pueblo enters 2026, council members collectively signaled a desire to rebuild trust, confront persistent challenges such as homelessness and vacant properties, and maintain open lines of communication with residents across all districts.

Pueblo Watch will continue to follow City Council actions, votes and policy decisions throughout the year. Full meeting recordings will be made available to the public as part of the Pueblo Star Journal’s ongoing commitment to transparency, accountability and informed civic engagement.

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Dozens of Pueblo residents gathered Saturday outside Pueblo Memorial Airport to protest the presence of Key Lime Air, a Colorado-based airline that has contracted with the federal government to transport detainees for U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement.

The peaceful demonstration reflected growing concern that Pueblo’s municipal airport could be used to support deportation flights tied to ICE, an agency whose expanded enforcement actions have drawn national scrutiny and prompted protests in communities across Colorado and the United States.

Protesters stood near the airport entrance holding signs opposing deportation flights and immigration enforcement practices. Organizers said the demonstration was intended to raise awareness and call for transparency regarding how public infrastructure in Pueblo is used and whether it supports federal immigration enforcement.

Several protesters said the possibility of deportation-related flights operating from Pueblo Memorial Airport raised concerns about family separation and the emotional toll on local immigrant communities.

While there is no public confirmation that deportation flights have departed from Pueblo, participants said the lack of clarity surrounding airport operations has fueled anxiety and mistrust. Protesters emphasized that Pueblo Memorial Airport is a publicly owned facility and argued that residents have a right to know how it is being used and which entities are operating from it.

Key Lime Air has not publicly detailed its charter clients and has declined to discuss specific operations related to immigration enforcement. The airline has previously stated that it conducts all flights in compliance with federal safety regulations and respects the right of individuals to peacefully protest.

The demonstration in Pueblo follows similar protests in other Colorado cities, where community members have urged local governments to reconsider relationships with airlines involved in ICE transport. In Denver, city leaders recently moved to block the expansion of Key Lime Air’s operations at Denver International Airport, citing concerns about the airline’s role in deportation flights. While the action did not remove the airline from the airport, city officials said it was intended to signal opposition to the expansion of immigration enforcement activities.

Communities in the Northeast have also staged protests targeting Avelo Airlines, another carrier that has contracted with ICE. Residents in those areas have raised concerns about deportation-related flights operating from local airports and have called on municipal leaders to examine airline contracts and airport policies tied to immigration enforcement.

These actions have highlighted ongoing debates about the limits of local authority when federal agencies use public infrastructure for enforcement purposes.

Immigration advocates have raised concerns about the use of aircraft to transport detainees between facilities, often over long distances. Critics say these transfers, sometimes referred to as “shuffle flights,” can separate individuals from family members, disrupt access to legal counsel, and create uncertainty for those detained.

Protesters in Pueblo said their concerns extend beyond national policy debates and are rooted in the local impact of immigration enforcement. Some said they worry that fear associated with deportation activity can discourage residents from participating fully in community life, accessing services, or reporting crimes.

City officials have not publicly stated whether Pueblo Memorial Airport has active agreements related to ICE operations. Pueblo Watch is in the process of requesting information regarding airport leases, charter activity, and any arrangements involving federal agencies to better understand how Pueblo Memorial Airport is being used.

Pueblo Memorial Airport is owned by the City of Pueblo and operates as a public facility. Airports that receive federal funding are generally required to provide access to qualified operators without discrimination, a legal framework that can limit the ability of municipalities to restrict airline activity based on the nature of an airline’s clients.

Despite those constraints, protesters said local governments still play a role in setting expectations for transparency and accountability. Demonstrators pointed to actions taken in other cities as evidence that municipal leaders can take symbolic or procedural steps to express community values.

Saturday’s protest remained peaceful, and there were no reported disruptions to airport operations. Organizers said the gathering was part of a broader effort to encourage public dialogue and ensure that decisions involving public facilities reflect the concerns of the community.

Participants said they plan to continue monitoring developments related to airport operations and immigration enforcement and to engage with city leaders about next steps.

Pueblo Watch will continue reporting on the issue, including any responses from city officials, airport authorities, and airline representatives as additional information becomes available.

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In our previous coverage of the ARTery murals at Central Plaza, we deplored the City’s decision to paint over decades-old artwork without permission, leaving blank panels where a vibrant cultural story once lived. Those panels are now covered in black graffiti that has remained for weeks without any response from the City. 

More than 10 years of community art were erased in minutes, only to be replaced by some of the worst tagging seen downtown. Is this the outcome the City intended? We will work to find out. We urge you to visit Central Plaza, see the damage, take pictures and share your thoughts.

Pueblo voters have spoken. After months of campaigning, debate, and community conversation, residents made decisive choices about their leaders, their schools, and the direction of city government. The results, reflecting a turnout of 37 percent countywide, close the chapter that began in October when the Pueblo Star Journal published its voter guide walking readers through each part of the ballot.

This follow-up report mirrors that same structure, moving through the ballot in the order voters encountered it. The results begin with municipal offices, then school board seats, statewide propositions, and city ballot measures. A results sidebar appears at the end of this article to give readers a quick summary of every item.

MUNICIPAL OFFICES

The most watched local contests were Pueblo’s three City Council races, which drew significant turnout and competitive results.

In District 1, voters selected Dianne Danti, who won with a narrow lead over Kassidy Hall and Tiffany Estrada. In District 3, Ted Hernandez prevailed over Joseph Perko, shifting the makeup of the council for the next term. The At-Large race drew the highest number of ballots. Selena Ruiz Gomez received the most votes, followed by Brett Boston, securing the two open seats. Other candidates included Regina Maestri, Nathan Harper, Tom Croshal, Colleen Grahek-Clark and Evans Auden Gonzalez Garcia.

Voters also decided one seat on the Civil Service Commission, choosing Steven Rodriguez over Erick B. Javaneau. The Board of Water Works election reappointed incumbents Chris Woodka and Michael Cafasso, each earning strong support from across the city.

SCHOOL BOARD OFFICES

Pueblo’s two school districts also saw active races as voters weighed priorities around student achievement, classroom resources and district leadership.

In District 60, two at-large seats were on the ballot. Tommy Farrell led the field, followed by Derion Michael Ibarra, giving both candidates the win. Rae Carnevale and Kathy DeNiro also drew significant support. Daniel McHenry, Fred Galves and Lucretia Robinson rounded out the field.

For District 70, voters elected Michelle Erickson in District III. In District IV, Mark Emery won a close contest over Chris DeLuca and Andrea Wade. In District V, Ann Bennett defeated Jenna Conklin. Turnout across the District 70 races remained consistent throughout Election Day.

STATEWIDE BALLOT MEASURES

Two statewide propositions appeared on the ballot, both relating to tax policy and funding for school meals.

Proposition LL passed comfortably among Pueblo County voters. The measure allows the state to retain and spend revenue from the 2022 voter approved tax deduction limits.

Proposition MM, which increases state taxes to support expanded access to school meals, also passed in Pueblo County and earned strong support in statewide totals.

MUNICIPAL BALLOT MEASURES

Pueblo included six city ballot questions this cycle. Three of them directly affected city governance and financial policy and drew wide public interest.

Question 2A, a proposed one percentage point sales and use tax increase for the general fund, was defeated. Only 4,946 voters supported the measure, while 21,017 voted against it.

Question 2B, an extension of Pueblo’s existing half cent sales tax for economic development, passed with 14,788 votes in favor and 11,214 votes against. The continuation of this tax supports job creation, airport improvements and other economic development projects.

Question 2C, which asked voters whether Pueblo should change its form of government from a mayor council structure to a council manager model, failed by a wide margin. Voters opted to retain the elected mayor system.

Questions 2D, 2E and 2F proposed updates to employee rules, collective bargaining language and municipal salary schedules. Question 2D failed. Question 2E, which would have allowed immediate salary adjustments for municipal officers, was rejected by voters. Question 2F, changing rules surrounding classified service employees, passed with a narrow margin.

Outside Pueblo city limits, the Rural Fire Protection District passed Issue 6A, which increases district taxes to support fire services. Voters in Hanover approved both Issues 7A and 7B, extending and adjusting property tax policies for long term district stability.

WHAT THE RESULTS MEAN

The 2025 coordinated election delivered a mix of continuity and change. The approval of 2B keeps economic development funding stable for the next several years, while the defeat of 2A signals voter hesitation toward broad tax increases. The wide margin against 2C reinforces public preference for a mayor who is directly accountable to residents.

At the state level, strong support for LL and MM reflects ongoing commitment to school nutrition and education funding. Locally, school board outcomes show a blend of returning leadership and new voices, suggesting that voters want steady governance paired with renewed focus on student needs.

The Pueblo Star Journal will continue election coverage in the Pueblo Watch digital edition on November 21. That report will feature interviews with newly elected officials, a closer look at turnout patterns, and additional context from community members who participated in this year’s decision making.

FINAL BALLOT DECISIONS AT A GLANCE

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The loss of Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP) benefits is a looming threat that has haunted countless families across Pueblo and the nation during times of political gridlock. Now, with the federal government in its 28th day of a shutdown, the fear has intensified. Many worry that essential food benefits could disappear at any moment as Congress remains stalled on a funding agreement. But despite the uncertainty, the end of SNAP is not inevitable. The USDA’s own Lapse of Funding Plan outlines a roadmap that, if followed, allows nutrition assistance to continue even during a prolonged shutdown.

Alarming headlines and political soundbites have ignited fears that thousands in Southern Colorado could lose their SNAP benefits before Thanksgiving. For families facing hunger and nonprofits struggling to meet growing demand, the warnings feel urgent and all too plausible. But a closer look at federal planning tells a different and more hopeful story. The U.S. Department of Agriculture’s contingency plan suggests that SNAP can remain operational even during a federal shutdown.

Earlier this fall, the USDA released its September 2025 “Lapse in Appropriations Contingency Plan.” The document is clear. While some federal services may be paused, nutrition assistance remains a priority. The plan states that SNAP will continue “for as long as funding permits,” using available resources to ensure ongoing benefits and support for eligible families. It is not a promise of uninterrupted assistance, but it is a deliberate commitment to keeping families fed for weeks into a shutdown, not hours.

Mixed messages have added to the confusion. Some Republican lawmakers have said publicly that there is no contingency plan for SNAP during a shutdown, emphasizing that federal agencies cannot spend money without congressional approval and that SNAP relies on annual appropriations. At the same time, USDA officials have been cautious in their statements about long-term funding, highlighting what they cannot guarantee rather than referencing past precedent. This creates a communication gap. Lawmakers focus on legal boundaries, the USDA underscores its operational limits, and neither message clearly explains that contingency options do exist, have been used before, and are outlined in the agency’s own Lapse of Funding Plan. This gap leaves families with the impression that support could disappear instantly, even though historical precedent shows that short-term funding workarounds can and have been deployed.

There is precedent for this. During previous shutdowns, the USDA relied on contingency reserves and unspent appropriations to continue issuing SNAP benefits. In Colorado and other states, agencies were directed to process February benefits ahead of schedule during the 2018 to 2019 shutdown, a move that helped shield families from the worst disruptions. The lesson is simple. Creative management by state and federal agencies can prevent an immediate collapse of the safety net.

For Pueblo, these details matter. More than one in eight residents rely on SNAP to put food on the table, and local food pantries are already stretched thin. Fear is understandable, but leadership requires grounding those fears in facts. Public officials should focus on ensuring that the USDA’s contingency plans are fully implemented, while communicating clearly with families about the actual risks and potential solutions.

The loss of SNAP benefits is a political choice, not an unavoidable outcome. The federal government has the tools to prevent a crisis. The plan is written, and the priorities are clear. As Pueblo faces uncertain days, we must demand that leaders use every resource available to protect our neighbors from hunger. Congress may waver, but our conviction should not.

If the safety net frays, let it be from neglect, not inevitability. This is a solvable problem, and everyone in Pueblo should know it.

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This November, Pueblo voters will make choices that shape their neighborhoods, schools, and the direction of city government. Here’s what you can expect to see as you move through your ballot from top to bottom.

MUNICIPAL OFFICES
At the top of the local ballot are Pueblo’s municipal races. Several City Council districts are up for election this year, giving residents a chance to select representatives who will guide local policies on public safety, housing, infrastructure, and economic development.

This election also includes a question about Pueblo’s form of government. Voters will decide whether to keep the current council–mayor structure or shift to a council–city manager model. The proposal follows months of discussion about accountability, cost, and long-term efficiency at City Hall.

If approved, the change would move daily administration under a professional city manager hired by the council. If rejected, Pueblo will continue with a directly elected mayor overseeing operations.

SCHOOL BOARD DISTRICT OFFICES
Voters in both Pueblo School District 60 and Pueblo County District 70 will select school board members to serve four-year terms.

In District 60, candidates are focusing on classroom resources, student safety, and teacher retention. District 70 candidates are emphasizing school funding, curriculum priorities, and transportation for rural families.

These races, while often overlooked, have direct impact on students, teachers, and families across the region. School board members set district budgets, hire superintendents, and make decisions that influence how education is delivered in every classroom.

STATE BALLOT MEASURES
After the local races, voters will consider statewide proposals certified by the Colorado Secretary of State’s office.

Proposition MM would adjust current tax deductions to expand funding for Colorado’s free school meals program.

Proposition LL would allow the state to retain and use certain tax revenues previously limited to specific education programs.

In addition, several citizen initiatives are moving forward:

Initiative 16 would require voter approval for certain statewide fees.
Initiative 22 would add a right to school choice in the state constitution.
Initiative 24 would limit the creation of new state enterprises without voter consent.
Initiative 29 would prohibit state or local governments from banning specific energy sources.

Constitutional amendments need at least 55% voter approval to pass. Each proposal carries implications for state revenue, education, or energy policy that extend beyond Pueblo County.

MUNICIPAL BALLOT MEASURES
As you move further down the ballot, several local measures ask for voter direction on Pueblo’s future growth and finances.

Sales and Use Tax Increase (Ordinance 11000)
Voters will decide whether to raise the city’s sales and use tax from 3.7% to 4.7%. The increase could generate about 26 million dollars annually to support capital improvements and community programs.

Economic Development Sales Tax Extension (Question 2B)
This measure would extend the existing half-cent sales tax used for job creation and economic development through 2031. The rate would not increase, but approval would keep funding in place for major projects, including work at Pueblo Memorial Airport.

Other City Measures
City officials have approved additional measures for the ballot, including technical adjustments to municipal codes and financial authorizations. Residents are encouraged to review the sample ballot for complete wording before voting.

HOW TO VOTE
Ballots will be mailed to registered voters beginning in October. Voters can return them by mail, at drop boxes, or in person at any polling center through Election Day, Tuesday, Nov. 4.Residents who need to register, update their address, or replace a ballot can do so through the Pueblo County Clerk and Recorder’s Office up to and including Election Day. Sample ballots and drop-off locations are posted on the county website.

A FINAL WORD
Every vote carries weight in shaping the future of Pueblo. From who represents you at City Hall to how your schools are governed and how public dollars are spent, these decisions belong to the community. Take time to read, review, and return your ballot. Participation is the first step in keeping democracy strong in Pueblo County.

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Pueblo Star Journal,
301 N. Main St., Suite 101,
Pueblo CO 81003

At the Pueblo Star Journal, we believe that democracy works best when the people are heard. Our Pueblo Watch column serves as a local watchdog, shining light on decisions that shape life in our community. As part of that mission, it has become our tradition each election season to produce a special edition of our Voices of Pueblo podcast titled Your Voice. Your Vote.

This October we will continue that tradition with interviews featuring all candidates running for Pueblo City Council. Our goal is simple. We want to provide voters with a clear, direct and thoughtful look at the people who are asking for their trust and their votes. We believe that informed voters are the foundation of a healthy democracy, and that begins with access to unfiltered information.

Each election we ask the same three core questions to every candidate. Those three questions come directly from our community. We are asking Pueblo residents to submit the issues, concerns and ideas that matter most to them. From those submissions, we will select three questions that every candidate will be asked during their interview. Each candidate will also be given one closing question of their choice, which gives them the opportunity to speak directly and personally about an issue they feel is most important.

This approach levels the playing field and centers the people of Pueblo in the democratic process. It ensures that this conversation is guided not by political operatives or party platforms, but by the lived experiences and priorities of our neighbors. It also gives candidates a chance to explain not just what they believe, but how they will address the challenges facing Pueblo in the years ahead.

Too often, local elections come and go quietly. Voters are left to choose between names on a ballot with little understanding of the values, ideas and plans behind those names. Pueblo Watch was created to change that. We are here to foster transparency, promote accountability and empower civic engagement. We believe that everyone deserves to understand where their candidates stand before they cast their vote.

Now we are asking for your help. Submit your questions for the City Council candidates by September 22 through email at watch@pueblostarjournal.org. Your voice can shape this election coverage and make sure the topics that affect your life are part of the conversation. We will use your questions to guide our interviews and give voters the information they need to make a thoughtful decision this November.

Your voice matters. Your vote matters. Together, they can shape the future of Pueblo. 

Join us in making this election about the people who call this city home.

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Pueblo Star Journal,
301 N. Main St., Suite 101,
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The mystery over who authorized the destruction of six beloved murals at Central Plaza has taken a dramatic turn. City documents, assessor records, and newly uncovered legal facts show that the City of Pueblo acted on permission from a man who had no legal authority over the property, and in doing so, may have violated federal law protecting public art.

According to statements made by Mike Purdy, the City’s graffiti abatement supervisor, the decision to paint over the murals came after the City received a complaint in April about vulgar graffiti painted on top of the artwork in the alley behind the Tutt Building. Purdy said the City relied on a graffiti consent form “dating back to 2013” showing the property was owned by businessman Louie Carleo. Purdy said he contacted Carleo to ask whether he wanted to handle the graffiti himself or have the City remove it. Carleo reportedly told him to “go ahead and cover them up,” and the City’s crew painted over the graffiti and the murals underneath.

The problem is that Carleo has never owned the building at 119 Central Plaza. The current owner is Jay Powell of TabCo Limited. Records show that the City’s consent form and property log referenced “105 Central Plaza,” not 119, and that the 2013 form could not have been valid for the Tutt Building. The City of Pueblo has since admitted the error, removed the consent form from its files, and updated its records to reflect Powell as the rightful owner.

In a July 24 letter to Powell, Senior Assistant City Attorney Lisa A. Macchietto acknowledged that the City acted “in good faith on the consent and direction of a party who stated they had a legal interest in the property” but confirmed that “no consent form is attributed to your building” and that Powell will now be listed as the authorized contact for future graffiti removal.

However, the damage was already done. The murals, created by artists Refic and Mike Strescino nearly a decade ago as part of Pueblo’s ARTery project, were destroyed. The ARTery, launched in 2015, transformed historic downtown alleys into a public walking path showcasing murals, sculptures, and installations, and was recognized by the American Heart Association as an official Walking Path.

Legal experts say the City’s actions may have violated the federal Visual Artists Rights Act of 1990, which grants artists the right to prevent the destruction of works of recognized stature unless they have waived those rights in writing. Under the law, if a mural is to be removed or destroyed, the building owner must give the artist 90 days’ notice to allow for preservation. The law applies even when the building owner, not the artist, owns the physical surface such as steel cladding.

In this case, the building owner owned the steel panels on which the murals were painted, but the artists retained copyright and moral rights. There is no evidence that either artist waived their legal protections or received notice before the murals were covered. This raises the possibility of federal claims for unlawful destruction.

Purdy’s account reveals another troubling aspect: his view of the murals. In describing the alley, he rejected the idea that the paintings were tourist attractions, calling the space “a filthy, dangerous area” with frequent drug use, homelessness, and assaults. He recounted working alongside the Police Department’s DICE unit the same day to dismantle a homeless camp at the site.

Yet even if City crews saw the area as unsafe, legal experts say that does not excuse bypassing the rightful owner and the artists. Under the law, recognized public art cannot be destroyed without due process, regardless of its surroundings. A mural in an alley still has federal protections if it meets the statute’s criteria.

The destruction also highlights a gap in the City’s internal processes. The reliance on a decade-old consent form tied to a different address suggests that property ownership records used by the graffiti abatement team were not regularly updated. In its letter to Powell, the City expressed regret and promised to keep accurate records going forward.

But regret may not be enough for the artists and the building owner, both of whom suffered losses. Under copyright law, artists own the exclusive right to reproduce and display their work. Under property law, the building owner owns the physical surface. Both may be entitled to compensation when the work is destroyed without authorization.

For the ARTery, the loss is cultural as well as legal. Conceived as a network of alleys parallel to North Main Street and running between City Center Drive and 2nd Street, the ARTery was designed to connect art, history, and wellness in a unique public space. The Tutt Building murals were among its most photographed stops, used as backdrops for graduation portraits, campaign launches, and even engagement announcements.

The case raises broader questions about how Pueblo values public art, how it honors the rights of creators, and how it ensures that government agencies follow the law.

The City’s Historic Preservation Code adds another layer of complexity. Because the Tutt Building is on the National Register of Historic Places, any alteration to its exterior, including painting steel panels affixed to its walls, requires prior approval from the Historic Preservation Commission. That approval was neither sought nor granted before the murals were painted over.

Advocates for the artists and the building owner say the path forward should include restitution and restoration. That could mean compensating both the artists and Powell, commissioning new murals for the site, and adopting policies to prevent similar incidents.

Pueblo Watch has reached out to the City of Pueblo on multiple occasions for comment. The City decided not to comment, and that decision was their response. The building’s owner and the Pueblo Star Journal have also tried to reach Louie Carleo for comment but have not received a response.

Here are the questions we posed to the City, which remain unanswered:

Accuracy of Records Before Action
Our review of official documents shows discrepancies in both the addresses and dates associated with this incident.

• What is the City’s policy for verifying property ownership and record accuracy before dispatching the graffiti removal crew to address private property?
• What policies guide accurate record keeping on what is painted over, including documentation of the site’s condition prior to removal?

Remarks in Official Correspondence
The letter from Mr. Purdy contains disparaging remarks regarding the unhoused and subjective statements about what constitutes art.

• Do these remarks reflect the official stance of the City of Pueblo on these issues?
• If not, what is the City’s official position on public art and its approach to addressing the needs and rights of unhoused individuals?

Post-Removal Outreach
Now that the painting has been removed:

• What outreach has been conducted with the building’s owner?
• What outreach, if any, has been conducted with the artists whose work was covered?

Public clarity on these questions is critical to transparency, accountability, and trust between the City and the community.

Legal Implications

Legal experts say ownership and rights to murals painted on buildings or cladding depend on several factors tied to property law, contract law, and the federal Visual Artists Rights Act (VARA) of 1990. Analysts note that the following general principles could be relevant in circumstances like those described in this Pueblo Watch article:

1. Ownership of the Physical Surface (Steel Cladding)
   In most cases, the building owner owns the physical surface — such as steel cladding — unless a lease, rental agreement, or other contract states otherwise. If this applies here, Jay Powell would likely own the physical panels.
   
2. Copyright Ownership (Artist’s Rights)
   Artists generally retain copyright to their work unless they have assigned it in writing. Copyright law grants the artist exclusive rights to reproduce, display, or license the mural design, even if the work is physically located on another person’s property.
   
3. Visual Artists Rights Act (VARA, 1990)
   VARA provides “moral rights” to artists for works of recognized stature. These include the right to claim authorship and to prevent intentional distortion, mutilation, or destruction of the work that could harm their reputation. The law applies to murals on buildings if the artist has not waived those rights in writing. In situations like this, VARA typically requires the property owner to give the artist 90 days’ written notice before altering or removing the work, allowing for preservation. If artists such as Refic or Mike Strescino were not given notice and did not waive VARA rights, legal experts say the circumstances could support a federal claim.
   
4. Best Practices in Mural Agreements
   Arts attorneys say most mural projects use written agreements that specify:
   • Who owns the surface and the artwork
   • Whether the artist assigns or retains copyright
   • Whether VARA rights are waived
   • How the work will be maintained and under what conditions it may be removed
   In the absence of such an agreement, default law typically leaves the artist with copyright and moral rights, while the building owner retains ownership of the physical surface.
   

Summary: Legal analysts say that in situations like this, the building owner may own the cladding, the artists may retain copyright, and federal moral rights under VARA may protect the work from destruction unless those rights have been waived in writing. Removal without notice could raise legal issues, particularly if the work is of recognized stature.

Edit: An earlier version misnamed the senior assistant city attorney.

Pueblo Watch will continue to investigate.

Part 1 — Erasing Pueblo: When Governance Becomes Censorship

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PUEBLO, Colo. — In the spirit and success of DC Watch, and grounded in our commitment to civic journalism and community accountability, the Pueblo Star Journal is launching Pueblo Watch, a new editorial initiative to monitor local government decisions and their impact on everyday lives. Our first report begins in the alleys of Downtown Pueblo, where a wave of paint has literally whitewashed nearly a decade of community art and public memory.

On April 15, without public notice or consultation, the City of Pueblo’s graffiti removal crew, under the supervision of Municipal Judge Nelson Dunford, recently painted over several beloved murals along the ARTery, a community-led public art path that runs parallel to North Main Street and weaves through alleys between City Center Drive and Eighth Street.

Among the works erased were murals adjacent to Central Plaza, including the widely recognized Heart Mural by Refic, which for years had served as a backdrop for graduation portraits, engagement photos, and even a state representative’s campaign launch. Daneya Esgar, who represented Pueblo in the Colorado General Assembly and Pueblo Board of County Commissioners, posed in front of the heart mural when preparing her campaign. Most astonishingly, even the top horizontal panel bearing the word ARTery, the very name of the community art walk, was painted over.

The erasure stunned local artists, residents, and the building owner, who resides in the historic Tutt Building at 119 Central Plaza. The building, listed on the National Register of Historic Places since 1984, had long hosted mural panels on metal cladding. This technique was explicitly recommended by the city’s Historic Preservation Commission to protect the building’s  original brickwork while enabling artistic expression.

“The artwork on the side of the building was beautiful and now gone. It’s all gone, just like that. No, worse than gone. What remains is unsightly and grim. It breaks my heart because the city made no attempt to alert me about any issues of vulgarity before painting over these important works of art. And now I know they destroyed all of them only because someone deemed one small area of just one of the murals ‘offensive.’ No notice. No conversation. Just an assault,” said the owner of 119 Central Plaza, who is still reaching out to the city for answers. The owner received a letter from the City Attorney’s office that failed to explain who authorized the removal. The letter referenced “graffiti representing genitalia” and claimed that the city acted on the direction of an unnamed party with presumed legal standing. That individual had no documented authority, and the city has since rescinded the consent form they had relied on.

If a set of nipples was so problematic, one might ask why it took more than a decade to take issue with it. Pueblo has already weathered the so-called ‘nipple controversy,’ when the Diana statue in front of Union Station sparked public debate years ago. Leadership seems to have short-term memory when it comes to art and expression. But the more urgent question remains: who actually authorized the removal?

The murals were not graffiti. They were the result of a carefully coordinated civic effort known as the Pueblo ARTery, established in 2013 through partnerships between artists, local businesses, the Historic Preservation Commission, and the Department of Planning and Community Development. The initiative transformed neglected alleys into a walkable art experience, combining street and fine art in a celebration of Pueblo’s cultural identity. A Google Map was created to guide walkers through the route, highlighting more than 60 artworks, galleries, and local businesses.

The ARTery was officially designated as a wellness walking path by the American Heart Association, connecting fitness with culture and history. Strategic partners in the development of the ARTery have included Parkview Mobile Nurses, Bingo Burger, and other community stakeholders. During its inaugural High Desert Mural Festival in 2015, artists from across the country painted more than 20 murals along the corridor.

Refic and Mike Strescino were among the contributors, each bringing a distinct voice to Pueblo’s visual identity. Together, they painted both the “Big Bear” mural and the iconic “Lucky the Horse” mural, two of the most recognizable works in the Downtown corridor. Their work along the ARTery added both visual power and emotional resonance to Downtown Pueblo’s revival. The project also involved one of the writers of this article, Gregory Howell, who lived at the Tutt Building from 2012 to 2017 and helped coordinate community revitalization efforts in Downtown Pueblo.

The recent destruction of these artworks comes at a time when Pueblo is celebrating national recognition as a Certified Colorado Creative District. The designation is administered by Colorado Creative Industries as part of the Office of Economic Development and International Trade. In recent years, the city has branded itself as a beacon of creative genius, leveraging the arts for tourism, economic growth, and civic pride.

But the literal whitewashing of murals sends a different message.

In the wake of the incident, the owner of 119 Central Plaza has submitted a formal Colorado Open Records Act request to uncover how the decision was made and by whom. We will continue to monitor the situation, conduct interviews, and follow all developments closely. When we have an update for you, it will be published online immediately. 

This is why Pueblo Watch exists.

We will attend council meetings, track budgets and ordinances, and follow the paper trails behind decisions that affect our community. Our mission is rooted in civic journalism that is truth-based, community-centered, and informed by accountability.

The community is angry. We are angry. And we will not look away.

This is Pueblo’s public art. This is Pueblo’s story. And Pueblo Watch is keeping watch.

Part 2 – Who Authorized the Removal of Central Plaza Murals?

Edit: An earlier version of this article mentioned the Freedom of Information Act instead of the Colorado Open Records Act.

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At the Pueblo Star Journal, we believe local journalism should do more than cover stories. It should connect people to power. Pueblo Watch is our latest initiative to shine a persistent, focused light on the decisions made by City of Pueblo leadership and how those decisions shape the lives of everyday residents.

This new watchdog effort grows directly out of our work on DC Watch, which was launched to illuminate how decisions made in Washington, D.C., ripple across the country and land squarely on the doorsteps of Pueblo. That experience taught us the value of editorial journalism rooted in accountability, context, and civic dialogue. Now, our attention turns homeward.

Puebloans have been asking for this. Readers have reached out to express frustration with city leadership, confusion about how decisions are made, and difficulty accessing meeting agendas, minutes, and voting records. They are not alone. Across our community, people want answers. They want transparency. They want a voice in how their city is governed.

Pueblo Watch will help provide that voice.

We will monitor City Council meetings, ordinances, budgets, contracts, and committee decisions. We will document who shows up, who speaks up, and how they vote. Our work is guided by editorial journalism. It is truth-based, opinion-informed, and community-centered. We are not here to stir outrage. We are here to clarify, verify, and empower.

This is not activism. It is civic participation. It is journalism with its sleeves rolled up.

Inspired by Documenters.org and modeled after our own experience with DC Watch, Pueblo Watch will also recruit and train citizen Documenters to attend and report on public meetings. We believe in shared responsibility and shared knowledge. Together, we will build a new public record that includes every Pueblo voice.

We know access matters. That is why we are creating tools to make public documents, meeting minutes, and government actions searchable and shareable, all in one place. No more barriers to participation. No more mysteries behind closed doors.

This is your invitation to be part of the process.

Ask questions. Show up. Document. Speak truth.

Together, we will make Pueblo government more visible, more accountable, and more reflective of the people it serves. This is our city. Let’s keep watch.

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Make checks payable to:

Pueblo Star Journal,
301 N. Main St., Suite 101,
Pueblo CO 81003