By Mike McKibbin / NewsBreak Denver / Dec. 7, 2022
[CASTLE ROCK, COLO.] — Town of Castle Rock employees received an early present Tuesday night when the Town Council approved an extra paid day off on Friday, Dec. 23.
Mayor Pro Tem Kevin Bracken said the town had added another day off during previous holiday seasons. He initially wanted to let Town Manager Dave Corliss pick a date around the Christmas and New Year's holidays. Corliss said he would like council direction.
"The council sets our holidays and we'll follow your decisions," he said.
Corliss noted the town code designates Dec. 26 as a day off when the holiday falls on a Sunday, as it does this year.
Mayor Jason Gray said Dec. 23 would allow town employees to do last-minute shopping and other holiday preparations.
The extra paid day off would likely cost the town around $50,000, and Corliss said he could find the money in the general, transportation and water funds.
He noted town police, fire and water workers would work during the holiday period.
Corliss added the extra day off could affect whether the town hall is open that day as currently planned.
New council members take office
Also during Tuesday's meeting, two returning council members and one new member were sworn in.
In the November general election, town voters reelected Kevin Bracken in District 3. Max Brooks defeated Caryn Johnson in District 5. Jason Gray ran unopposed for mayor.
Johnson expresses thanks
Johnson received a proclamation for her four years on the council, a framed copy of the document, a plaque and a desk clock. She read from a two-page prepared statement that began, "Four years ago, I was pessimistic about the town's direction and no longer wanted to stand by and complain."
Johnson thanked District 5 voters for electing her in 2018 and said she had helped the town improve its transparency and clarity about the development process, added open space, and improved parks and trails.
"Your concerns about growth were repeatedly voiced by me from the dais, ensuring a wider view was expressed, not just that of businesses and developers. Because, after all, you, the people are who elect us and hold us accountable," Johnson added.
Brooks thanked Johnson for her time on the council and noted he would continue working with her on a metropolitan district board they both serve.
"I'd like to thank the voters in District 5, and I'm looking forward to working with you all and serving the residents of Castle Rock," he added.
Mayor pro tem remains the same
The town council also picked Bracken to continue as mayor pro tem. The mayor pro tem fills in for the mayor in his absence.
In secret written ballots, Bracken received four votes, Councilmember Laura Cavey one vote, and one 'no' vote was cast. Councilmember Desiree LaFleur was absent.
The 2022-24 council also includes District 1 Councilmember Ryan Hollingshead, District 2 Councilmember Laura Cavey, District 4 Councilmember Desiree LaFleur, and District 6 Councilmember Tim Dietz. Councilmember biographies are available online.
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