8.19.25 GCMAD Meeting: Audio Only

August 19, 2025 GCMAD: audio-only recording, no footage available. Manager Cody Johns reported two recent altercations with property owners in which law enforcement was called - one of which involved a shotgun. Is anyone surprised? What are residents to do when their wishes are routinely ignored by GCMAD, its rogue trustees, the "no authority" County Commissioners and every. other. state. agency? Ultimately, Johns and Co. simple don't understand that property rights predate and supersede the abatement district. "Shine A Light Gem County" has received multiple tips this season alleging repeated trespass by GCMAD staff and techs. (One commenter reported that after calling the Sheriff's office in the past, she was given the brush off. The deputy falsely stated that "those sprays are organic" and in the end, she received no help in securing her rights.) Residents are making calls and sending emails asking Johns to keep out! But those requests have been ignored when not submitted via his extensive, over-reaching exclusion form which many refuse to sign on principle. Should we really be compelled to sign some of our rights away in order to secure others? Johns would do well to remember he is a public servant who should seek permission from the people - not the other way around. Additional comments from the meeting included reports that even after opt out, clouds of chemicals were still being dispersed too closely as well as others who came to express concern over the lack of safety studies and the upcoming aerial spray.