David Hernandez

Estes Valley Weekly News Roundup

Estes Valley saw a week of growth, transition, and resilience across the community.

The new Club House Fairway Tavern is set to open May 1 at the 18-hole golf course. Operated by Gaffner Hospitality Group, the restaurant will offer a casual yet modern dining experience, serving everything from quick bites between rounds to weekend prime rib dinners.

Visit Estes Park announced a staff reorganization under CEO Sarah Leonard. The restructuring includes position changes and the creation of new roles focused on visitor experience and data science, signaling a strategic shift in how the destination approaches tourism marketing and analytics.

At the Estes Valley Fire Protection District meeting, board members participated in a work session on the Colorado Open Records Act, reinforcing their commitment to transparency and public accountability. The district also continues its search for a new fire chief and is evaluating structural improvements to strengthen public safety services.

In education news, School Board Vice President Ava Kendall resigned effective Feb. 24, citing family reasons. The board also discussed enrollment trends and long-term facilities planning during its recent session.

Public safety crews responded to a second-alarm fire at the Expedition Lodge on Lake Avenue Friday night. Firefighters contained the blaze, safely evacuated occupants, and reported one injury. The cause remains under investigation.

David Hernandez

New Development for Public Safety — Proposal for a New Police Building

In municipal news, the Town Board is reviewing a proposal for a new location for the Estes Park Police Station. After 52 years in its current building, the department is considering constructing a new facility on a site located on the northwest side of Community Drive and Manford Avenue.

The current building, which was originally a 91-year-old school, no longer meets the growing needs of the community. The proposed site would offer improved access, adequate parking, and enhanced security. A final decision is scheduled for a vote on March 10.

International Connections — Sister Cities Agreement

We continue with positive cultural news: the historic Sister Cities relationship between Estes Park and Monteverde, Costa Rica, which began in 2004, now has a permanent display in the municipal building.

Recently, Mayor Gary Hall and Sister Cities Association President Dave Thomas selected a special location at Town Hall to hang the signed agreement. This partnership continues to strengthen cultural and educational exchanges between both communities and represents shared values of cooperation and global understanding.

Youth Art and Mentorship — “Mentor/Student” Exhibition

Through March 16, you can visit the “Mentor/Student” exhibition at the Art Center of Estes Park.

The exhibit features artwork created by elementary, middle, and high school students, as well as adults, all guided by artist mentors. The show highlights local talent and emphasizes the importance of arts education and intergenerational collaboration.

Transparency Concerns — Questions About Park Hospital District Finances

In health and administration news, Park Hospital District Treasurer Brigitte Foust has raised concerns regarding the presentation of recent financial statements, as well as two $100,000 checks.

This has prompted discussion about transparency and accountability in the management of public funds within the district.

That’s all for today on La Voz del Valle. Thank you for joining us and staying informed about what’s happening in our community. Be sure to follow us for more updates, local stories, and events that matter.

David Hernandez

The Estes Valley Voice Spanish-language podcast recaps our top news stories each week with host David Hernandez. Please let us know if you, your business, or organization would like to become a sponsor of this work.

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