Colorado Springs

Colorado Springs Utilities paid a $35,000 penalty for two improper water discharges from a treatment plant. One incident sent 11.9 million gallons of partially treated water into Fountain Creek after a brass nut failed. The utility said the water was awaiting final disinfection, which helps residents understand what entered the creek.

Holmes Middle School closed on Tuesday because of continued problems with a water main break in the area. Colorado Springs School District 11 issued the closure notice, and the school remains closed while the water main problems continue. Families with students at Holmes should watch district notices for updates on when classes resume.

Colorado sent federal officials a list of 91 areas, the maximum allowed, for new Opportunity Zone designation. The zones aim to draw private investment to low-income communities, and the list includes parts of the Colorado Springs and Denver metro areas. State leaders estimate the zones could bring more than $4 billion in total investment.

Colorado Springs leaders are stressing civility in community discussions after a heated hearing on Project Taurus, where disruptions occurred. Experts say civil debate can quickly break down when distrust hardens into a belief that government is corrupt. The focus matters for residents who want to voice disagreement on local decisions and still be heard.