Is Buc-ee's back on?

The owners of the proposed Buc-ee's site near Monument Hill secured approval for two well permits last month, reigniting community speculation about the beaver's arrival.

Why it matters: Concerns over potential water use helped drive Palmer Lake residents to reject the beaver-bedecked station's annexation request.

The intrigue: The well permits, along with a recently approved boundary line adjustment, are fueling speculation that developers could pursue the project through El Paso County instead.

Catch up quick: Buc-ee's first approached Palmer Lake in 2024 with an annexation plan as a first step toward building the station, triggering contentious community debate, along with:

• A recall election targeting two town board trustees
• The mayor and city attorney resigned
• Buc-ee's withdrew its development application in February

What we're watching: The landowner and Buc-ee's have remained quiet, but a formal county development proposal would offer the clearest signal of next steps.

Yes, but: Other Colorado communities, including Pueblo and Lamar, have pitched themselves as alternative sites.