ALL THE NEWS YOU NEED AND MORE
In this monthly newsletter, you’ll find messages from the Mayor and/or Town Council, learn about upcoming Town events and news, and updates from businesses and groups in the Community. Be in the know on happenings in Town and everything in between!
E X T R A ! E X T R A ! READ ALL ABOUT IT!
Join us for the....
JULY 11TH
BLUE SPRUCE PARK
10AM-1PM
First Responders Demonstrations Resources & MORE
FIRST 100 ATTENDEES GET A FREE WEATHER RADIO
Matt Fries Mayor
Karen Hessler Council Member
Hello Severance!
I hope your summer is off to a good start!
As we all prepare for the 250th anniversary of our country’s independence, I often ponder and try to imagine the conversation(s) between our founding fathers. Do you think they agreed with each other on everything? Of course not And that, in my opinion, is a good thing. We are the most successful nation on earth because of our diversity of ideas. Our founding fathers disagreed, yet still got the job done.
Today, it seems that when people disagree, they have to hate each other. Its no longer, “I disagree and here’s why” It’s “I disagree and you are a low down, etc, etc.”
Social media has created the key board warrior. You no longer have to think before you speak, nor do you need to offer any respect for your reader, nor does it need to be true or even a little fact based. Just blurt it out, and who cares about the consequences.
Give your neighbors a smile and a wave and let’s see what happens.
I hope you can all make it to a town council meeting, watch live stream or the recorded meeting It is truly the best way to learn what’s happening in our town, and to get the truth in a professional meeting.
Happy Birthday USA!
I hope to see you around town, Matthew Fries
Mayor
Our founding fathers figured it out. Can we?
I think it starts with simple respect for your fellow human beings, many of which happen to be our neighbors.
Mayor Fries is working with a Severance Resident to petition for a Community Recreation Area after he was approached by the youth member.
Dave Bruen
In my last newsletter piece, I mentioned that 2026 could be a year of opportunity for the right kinds of businesses in Severance. I’d like to expand on that thought, because the truth is this: our Town is at a moment in time where thoughtful, community minded investment could make a real difference For years, residents have told me they’d love to see more local amenities places to gather, shop, eat, or simply enjoy being part of a small town. I believe both perspectives can coexist, and that the best way forward is through businesses that reflect who we are and what we value. What some may not realize is that there are already several opportunities hiding in plain sight. A few existing structures in the core of town are just waiting for someone with vision. Most buildings have a unique character that could lend itself to any number of creative uses. The Town owns the old schoolhouse/church building at the northeast corner of the 4 way stop. It has history and charm that could be preserved and reimagined – and the Town is very open to ideas and motivated to help with incentives. Not just for that building but for new businesses in general. There are also commercial properties currently for sale, including the old Severance Service Station on the southwest corner of the 4 way and the Auto Paint shop just east and across the street from it.
Each of these properties has the potential to become something new—something useful, something local, something that adds to the fabric of our community. These spaces offer a blank canvas for residents or entrepreneurs who want to build something from the ground up.
One thing I’ve heard repeatedly from residents is how much pride they feel when a business in town is truly local—not just located here, but owned and operated by people who call Severance home Locally owned businesses tend to reinvest in the community, hire local workers, and build relationships that last. They become part of the town’s identity, not just part of its landscape. When we support or create businesses rooted in our own community, we strengthen the sense of connection that makes Severance special.
I’m not suggesting that everyone should run out and start a business. But I am inviting you to think about what Severance could look like in the years ahead—and how local investment, whether big or small, could help shape that future. Maybe you’ve had an idea tucked away for years. Maybe you know someone who’s been looking for the right place to launch a new venture Maybe you simply want to be part of the conversation.
As always, I encourage you to stay engaged, ask questions, attend meetings, and share your thoughts. Growth doesn’t happen to a community it happens with a community. And the more voices we have at the table, the better Severance’s future will be Have a Safe & Enjoyable Summer!
Dave Bruen, Severance Town Council
Summer is upon us, and I hope you are all enjoying everything that comes with it, vacations, picnics, family gatherings, sporting events, and all the activities that make this season so special. Severance is a wonderful place to live, and I am grateful for each and every resident who calls our town home. There are plenty of great things happening around our community this summer. Be sure to check out Movies in the Park on July 24, featuring How to Train Your Dragon, and stop by the Severance Farmers Market every Saturday from 9:00 a.m. to 1:00 p.m. at Blue Spruce Park. It's a great way to support local vendors, pick up fresh produce, and spend time with friends and neighbors.
As we celebrate Independence Day this year, we have a unique opportunity to reflect on a truly historic milestone. July 4, 2026, marks the 250th anniversary of our nation's independence, a quarter millennium since the signing of the Declaration of Independence. This historic 250th anniversary celebration reminds us of the enduring principles of freedom, self-government, and civic engagement that have shaped our country for generations. It is also a time to appreciate the many freedoms we enjoy and to recognize that strong communities, like Severance, are built when neighbors come together, support one another, and invest in the future.
I'll leave you with a quote that reflects both the spirit of our nation and the importance of service to others: "Ask not what your country can do for you, ask what you can do for your country."
— John F Kennedy
Thank you for making Severance such a great place to live. Have a safe, fun, and memorable summer.
Josh Ochs Town Council Member
Severance Town Council celebrated a ribbon cutting of Karen Suman Park with the Range View 3 grade class rd
Lawn watering is allowed: April 1 – November 30
EVENADDRESSES
SUN/TUE/THUR
ODDADDRESSES
MON/WED/SAT
WATER IN THE MORNING OR EVENING
AVOID OVERWATERING
HOAs&BUSINESSES
SUN/WED/FRI
These restrictions do not apply to approved non-potable irrigation systems or areas served directly by the North Weld County Water District Please follow your Metro HOA or water service provi
NORTH WELD COUNTY WATER DISTRICT SERVICE AREA
The following subdivisions receive their water from the North Weld County Water District:
Belmont Farms
Bridal Hill / Saddler Ridge
Casa Loma
Golden Eagle Acres
Hidden Valley Farm
Soaring Eagle Ranch
All Other New Developments
Every drop counts. Thank you for helping protect Severance’s water for today and tomorrow
Treated drinking water used for:
INDOOR HOUSE USE
DRINKING AND COOKING
SHOWERS, SINKS AND LAUNDRY
Untreated drinking water used for:
LAWN IRRIGATION
LANDSCAPING
OUTDOOR WATERING
Using untreated irrigation water for landscaping helps conserve treated drinking water for household use.
Water meters are read each month (generally on the 20 day) to determine your monthly water usage th
BEGINNING FEBRUARY 2026 WATER RATES INCREASED 4%
BASE FEE PER 1000 GALLONS up to the allotment
PER 1000 GALLONS after exceeding the annual allotment
PLEASE NOTE: Additional water surcharges will be applied to accounts that exceed their designated usage classification The annual water allotment is from the November billing period to the October billing period of the following year. The
(GALLONS PER PROPERTY)
TAILHOLT SUBDIVISION with non-potable dual system
HUNTERS CROSSING, THE OVERLOOK, SEVERANCE RESERVE AND SEVERANCE SHORES with non-potable dual system
SUNSET RIDGE (attached single family homes)
61,500 68,333 68,333 205,000 GALLONS GALLONS GALLONS GALLONS
TheTown’s “No Contact List” No Longer Exists.
The single most important thing a resident can do is post a clearly visible “No Solicitation” or “No Trespassing” sign at or near your front door.
Once a sign is posted, all commercial solicitors must skip your home. This includes people with a valid Town permit. The sign is your optout. No extra steps and no list to join
New Commercial Solicitors Must Display aTown-Issued Identification Badge For questions about the ordinance or permits, call Town Hall at 970-6861218. If a commercial solicitor approaches your home after you have a sign posted, or if they behave improperly: You can ask them to leave. Call the Severance Police Department non-emergency line: 970-350-9600. Police will respond and investigate.
Anyone selling a product or service must have a permit, and they must wear their Town-issued identification badge. Companies with existing permits may still operate in town, but they will not have an identification badge.
Commercial Solicitor (selling products, services, or business opportunities)
Charity or Nonprofit (donations, Girl Scouts, food banks, etc.)
Political Canvasser (asking for your vote or petition signature)
Yes — Permit Required
No
No
Religious Outreach (sharing a religious message) No
WE’RE LISTENING — CONTACT THE TOWN OF SEVERANCE
Submitting a request is simple. Visit townofseverance.org and click the “We’re Listening” tab on our website. Provide details about your concern, including the location and a description of the issue, to help staff respond quickly and effectively Thank you for partnering with us to keep our community safe, responsive, and thriving. You can always call Town Hall, 970-6861218, or email info@townofseverance.org, also if you would like to connect.
The Town of Severance is excited to announce that Notary services are now available exclusively to our residents! Whether you need documents notarized for legal, financial, or personal reasons, we’re here to help.
Service Details: Monday through Friday 9:00 AM to 4:30 PM
Town of Severance Town Hall Building
This convenient service is part of our commitment to supporting our residents by offering accessible and reliable resources within the community.
How to Access:
Bring a valid, government-issued photo ID. Ensure your documents are complete and ready for notarization (do not sign them in advance).
Stop by during our designated service hours—no appointment is necessary!
Please note: This service is available to Severance residents only.
We’re here to serve you, Severance!
Heads up, neighbor! Each garden plot is reserved and tended by a dedicated gardener who has put the love, sweat, and seed money into growing it.
Please admire, but kindly do not pick!
Questions about the gardens can be sent to communitygardens@townofseverance.org
Town Hall is always here to help and serve as a resource for our residents. However, some situations are best handled by NonEmergency Dispatch so the appropriate personnel can respond.
Examples of situations that should be reported to Non-Emergency Dispatch include: A dog running loose
Suspicious activity or behavior
A traffic crash with no life-threatening injuries (if anyone may be injured, call 911)
Requests to speak with a Severance Police Officer
These are just a few examples of calls Town Hall receives that need to be redirected to Non-Emergency Dispatch.
If you're ever unsure who to contact, feel free to call Town Hall first. We'll help connect you with the right resource.
TOWN HALL: 970-686-1218
NON-EMERGENCY DISPATCH: 970-350-9600
Windsor Parks, Recreation & Culture has established a scholarship program that offers financial assistance for youth athletic/program registrations to residents of Severance under 18 years.
Please contact the Community Recreation Center to obtain an application, or you can fill one out online at recreationliveshere.com/ReduceFee. Your request will be confidentially reviewed and approved based on financial qualifications. SIGN UP FOR ACTIVITIES ANYTIME
you’re ready to pay your bill, select a payment type. You can pay with credit card or debit card with NO additional fees! To pay your bill online go to
In the interest of safety to our residents, the Town of Severance conducts ongoing Integrated Mosquito Management beginning June 1st. The goal of this program is to monitor and reduce mosquito populations through the use of environmentally sound control techniques in order to protect residents from the threat of mosquito-borne diseases.
Vector Disease Control is the provider of these services. VDC and the town communicate with the Weld County Department of Health and Environment, the Colorado Department of Public Health and Environment, and surrounding municipalities in order to ensure that the highest level of mosquito control is achieved. This diligent and cooperative communication is important to the Town of Severance's mosquito management program and provides significant benefits to public health throughout the entire area.
Traps are used to monitor the assorted types of mosquito population and, based on the weekly trap findings, VDC conducts mosquito spraying (fogging) throughout the community when weather conditions are conducive to the best effectiveness. Questions about the program can be directed to Vector Disease Control at 970-278-9977. More information can be found on our website, townofseverance.org
You may sign up for notifications on future spraying from Vector at their VDCI Mosquito Management website (Scroll to the bottom where it says "Spray Notification and Shut-Off Requests"). Here you can also request for them to "shutoff" when in front of your home. https://www.vdci.net/colorado/
Grasses and weeds must be kept at a height of 8' or less in yards and alleys and 9' or less in fields and undeveloped lots in Town of Severance.
Properties must be maintained in a neat, tidy and methodical manner The accumulation of rubbish is not permitted Rubbish includes but is not limited to items discarded or unusable or susceptible to weather as well as branched, yard waste, tires and appliances. Outdoor storage includes items not normally stored outdoors in a residential area.
It is unlawful for a person to build, maintain, attend or use an open fire, a portable outdoor fireplace, or recreational fire, or to conduct open burning, in the Town, including public and private lands, for purposes of removing and disposing of trash, junk, rubbish, litter, or yard waste
It shall be unlawful for a person to place any graffiti upon any public or private property
An inoperable motor vehicle is any vehicle not displaying a current license plate and validation sticker, or is not operational due to flat tires, missing parts or damage Inoperable vehicles may be stores on your property as long as they are screened from view Car covers are not sufficient for screening day
Everyone is required to shovel sidewalks within 24 hours after snowfall ends If sidewalks are not completely cleared of snow and ice after that period of time, a citation could be issued.
It is unlawful for a person to make, cause to be made, or to permit any unreasonable noise upon any premises or within any vehicle owned, possessed or operated by such person
Outdoor construction activities are allowed during the following time periods:
On weekdays, between 7:00am and 7:00pm or dusk
On Saturday and Sunday, between 9:00am and 5:00pm
Accumulation of trash, junk, and rubbish is prohibited For example, vehicle parts, tires, scrap lumber, construction materials, appliances, leaves and branches
A sign permit is required for most permanent and temporary signs unless the sign is specifically exempt under Town Code. Applications must be submitted in writing and reviewed by Town Staff to ensure the sign meets safety, building, and design standards The Town may remove illegal signs, and businesses that close must remove their signs within 90 days Anyone who installs a temporary sign without the required permit may lose the ability to obtain another temporary sign permit for the rest of the ear
wful for any person to throw or deposit or cause or o be thrown or deposited upon any street, alley, , or public property or place in the Town, any trash, litter or junk, or hazardous material, or other e matter
Each one of these codes and ordinances was adopted to maintain the high quality of life we appreciate in Severance. Please take time to read and understand the codes, and know how to report a violation.
*Severance Code Compliance does not respond to, or cite, for HOA/Metro District concerns, violations, or issues.
The Planning Department continues to review several development applications across Town. Below is a summary of projects currently under review.
Northgate Lake (Final Plat): 315 acres north of Harmony Road and east of CR 21, proposing 600 single-family homes with future mixed uses and open space
WinDance (Preliminary Plat): 168 acres north of Highway 392, proposing approximately 569 single-family homes and 34 acres of open space.
Saddle Ridge Tracts 9 & 10 (Final Plat): 11 acres north of SH 14, proposing paired homes and single-family lots.
Schlagel Minor Subdivision: Four rural residential lots west of CR 21.
Saddler Southern (Preliminary Plat): 46 acres proposing single-family homes and commercial space.
Berrado Holdings (Minor Subdivision): 20acre lot for an existing PRPA electrical substation.
Bower North (Preliminary Plat): 160 acres south of Hunters Crossing and west of CR 19, proposing 31 large residential lots, 278 single family, 5-acre commercial area and open space.
Planning Staff continues working on the Comprehensive Master Plan update. We held our first meeting with the Comprehensive Plan Advisory Committee (CPAC) on May 6th. The following is an outline of future meetings and topics for the CPAC to consider as part of the update:
July: Findings of early research/analysis, elements from current Comp Plan and other plans to carry forward, adjust, or remove, and discuss outreach approach and CPAC voluntary involvement.
August: Draft Plan outline review, discuss content review cadence and approach for CPAC, additional outreach discussions.
September: Review and discuss the first set of chapter(s) (possibly a shifted meeting date to mid-late Sept.)
A Capital Improvement Project (CIP) is a major investment in the Town’s infrastructure, facilities and equipment that has a useful life of several years and costs above the Towns established threshold
CIPs help build, maintain and improve the assets that support our community
Road & Street Improvements
Parks & Trails
Water & Sewer Infrastructure
Public Facilities & Equipment
Harmony Road and CR21 underwent improvements, with chip seal and striping completed. Chip sealing is a preventative road maintenance treatment that helps extend the life of existing pavement During the process, a layer of liquid asphalt is applied to the road surface, then covered with small aggregate stones, or "chips," which are rolled into place.
The Town of Severance has more than 320 fire hydrants throughout the community. Each year, these hydrants are flushed, inspected, and maintained to ensure they operate properly and are ready when needed during an emergency. Regular hydrant maintenance helps improve water quality, verifies proper water flow, and ensures our firefighters have reliable access to water when responding to fires.
The traffic lights at both the intersections of WCR 19/E. Harmony and Ponderosa/E. Harmony have been completed and are fully functional. The second phase of this project will begin later this summer and include the construction of a sidewalk on the south side of E Harmony, east of Ponderosa, and the timed signaling of the three Town-owned traffic lights.
The paving for this project has been completed. The pedestrian rapid-flashing crossing beacons for E. Harmony and WCR 23 are on backorder and should arrive in July; they will be installed upon arrival, and this installation will not cause another closure
Residents may occasionally notice a pink-colored foam or liquid in the system during this work The pink material is a biodegradable root control product used to help prevent tree roots from growing into sewer lines. It is safe when used as directed and helps extend the life and reliability of the sewer system.
This summer, Lakeview Park will receive a full renovation of the playground equipment and surfacing. This new all-inclusive layout will include two play features with multiple slides, two swing sets for several age groups, turtle steps, and a 20-foot Gaga Pit
The waterline to the existing southern restrooms by the ballfields and to the future northern restrooms has been completed. The southern restrooms by the ballfields should be opened by late July Starting in June and into July, concrete, asphalt, and structural work will begin, and the Park will start to form.
In the summer months, Police Departments across the state see an uptick in impaired and distracted driving We ask that you put the phone down until you reach your destination. It. Can. Wait.
We love our town because we trust our neighbors. But trust doesn’t mean being careless; it means working together to protect our homes, families, and community. Below are some prevention tips that can help protect yourself and your property.
Prevention Tips:
Lock It: Always lock your doors and windows, even when parked at home. A locked door is the first step in preventing theft.
Light It: Park in well-lit areas, or install motion sensor lights to deter criminals from targeting your property
Take It: Remove valuables from your vehicle or keep them out of sight. Don't leave items like electronics, bags, or valuables visible in your car.
Report It: If you see something suspicious, report it immediately!
Prompt reporting can help prevent future crimes in our community.
Do NOT purchase gift cards or Bitcoin to pay someone especially if they claim to be an officer or from the government. If you receive a call like this, it is a scam. No government agency will ask for gift cards or bitcoin
Do NOT click links that are texted to your phone from unknown numbers. Scammers often use these links to steal personal or financial information.
Never share personal information like Social Security numbers, banking details, passwords or personal photos with unexpected callers or people.
E-bikes are becoming increasingly popular, and we want to help ensure everyone rides safely and responsibly.
According to Colorado law, EMotorcycles are classified as OffHighway Vehicles (OHVs) and are not permitted on public roadways, sidewalks, or trails.
If you ride an e-motorcycle, always do so in approved areas and wear proper safety gear, including a helmet, to help prevent serious injury. Ride smart. Ride safe. Protect yourself and others.
DeviceQuickReference
eBike (Class I/II)
Electric assist; lower speeds
eBike (Class III) Electric assist; higher speeds
(no pedals)
I am wearing a properly fitted helmet
My brakes work correctly
I am wearing bright or reflective clothing
I ride on the right side of the road, sidewalk or trail
I stop and look left, right, and left again before crossing streets
I dismount from my bike before crossing big intersetions
My bike has reflectors
I watch for cars backing out of driveways
Electric Scooter Electric; stand on
TheTownCounciliscurrentlyreviewingaproposedOrdinanceonE-Bike regulations.Pleasevisitourwebsiteformoreinformation.
The Board of Directors is considering a phased mill levy increase –a total of 4 mills over 10 years to help spread out the cost.
This will ensure WSFR can meet minimum staffing requirements set by the National Fire Protection Association.
Even with a 4-mill increase, WSFR will still have one of the lowest rates in the state based on assessed values.
Add 27 new firefighters and 6 essential administrative staff over 10 years
Replace aging emergency apparatus like fire engines
Build a fifth station to meet National Fire Protection Association response time benchmarks
No decision has been made. Windsor Severance Fire Rescue is gathering community input as it weighs its options for financial sustainability.
Professional service and compassionate care from our family to yours.
Protects people andpropertyacross 100 square miles in Weld and Larimer Counties
Operates out of 4 strategically placed stations throughout our service area
Powered by 65 highly trained first responders and critical support staff
Demand forservices,and the associated costs, are growing faster than available funding.
WSFR must address its staffing levels, aging equipment, and inadequate stations to maintain quality service.
Calls for service have increased 29% in 5 years.
A new fire engine now costs $1.2 million – a 118% increase in 5 years.
27 new firefighters are needed over 10 years.
Windsor Severance FireRescue is atrusted,fiscally responsibleorganization — but rising
Without additional revenue, WSFR faces a budget deficit starting in 2027. Emergency services and response will be impacted throughout our community costs, growing service demands, and escalating fire risk are outpacing available funding.
Professional service and compassionate care from our family to yours.
www.WSFR.us
CodeREDby Crisis24 allows publicsafety officials to send targeted alerts to registered users through phone calls, text messages, emails, and mobile app notifications. Crisis24 represents that its new CodeRED is reliable and protects data security. Notifications may include evacuation notices, public safety incidents, and other time-sensitive information. People may also opt in to receive severe weather alerts
Register today!
To sign up, visit the CodeRED by Crisis24 sign-up webpage and click “register.” Users will enter their name, create a username and password, and select a preferred contact method such as text or email. While previous CodeRED user information has been migrated into the updated system, Weld County recommends creating a new account. A new account allows users to easily update contact information and access alerts through the CodeRED mobile app, available in the Google Play and Apple app stores.
FREE Red Cross mobile apps have vital tools and resources to prepare for and respond to emergencies and disasters — big and small. Plus, there’s support for our military/veteran communities, important child care information and scheduling for life-saving blood donations. Go to redcross.org/apps, text ‘APPS’ to 90999 or search ‘American Red Cross’ in your app store.
The Colorado SBDC is proud to announce the new Business Recovery and Resiliency Guide, a comprehensive roadmap designed to help small businesses navigate the unexpected, minimize downtime, and emerge stronger. Whether you're currently facing a disruption or want to prepare before a disaster strikes, this no-cost guide provides the tools you need to secure your future.
Proactive Planning: Identify vulnerabilities today to ensure your business remains a permanent pillar of your community.
Active Support: Use our step-by-step framework to cut through the chaos and streamline your reopening during a crisis.
Expert Guidance: Pair this self-paced guide with confidential one-on-one advising for a personalized path to stability.
Ready to get started? Visit the Colorado SBDC online, connect with your local Colorado SBDC or access the Business Recovery and Resiliency Guide
JULY 11- Safety Fair
JULY 24- Movie Night: How To Train Your Dragon
AUGUST 5- National Night Out
AUGUST 11- Public Safety Community Forum
AUGUST 21- Movie Night: Top Gun at Severance Library
SEPTEMBER 17-23- Constitution Week
OCTOBER 7- Coffee with a Cop
OCTOBER 26 - NOVEMBER 7- Food Drive
OCTOBER 30- Trick or Treat Parade
OCT/NOV- Tree and Limb Drop Off
NOVEMBER 7- Food Drive Drop Off Last Day
DECEMBER 12- Town Christmas
AFTER CHRISTMAS- Christmas Tree Drop Off
Vendor Booth Applications are available for select events! The application can be found on our website at townofseverance.org
**Dates of events are subject to change
Call Town Hall at 970-686-1218
Call Severance Police Station 970-685-9708
Non-emergency Dispatch 970-350-9600
Email: info@townofseverance.org
townofseverance.org
@TownOfSeverance / @SeverancePD
@TownOfSeverance
@SeverancePD
Town of Severance
Town of Severance
HOW DO WE KEEP SEVERANCE SAFE — TOGETHER?
AUGUST 11, 2026 5PM SEVERANCE TOWN HALL DATE TIME LOCATION
YOUR VOICE SHAPES HOW WE POLICE OUR COMMUNITY
OPEN TO ALL SEVERANCE RESIDENTS COME READY TO ASK QUESTIONS