Council discusses Ute Terrace Road, Mind Springs

MEEKER | Members of the Ute Terrace Homeowners Association opened a discussion with Meeker’s Board of Trustees about the status of Shaman Trail.
Doug Merrell, vice president of the HOA, explained to the board that the road, which is within town limits, receives no town maintenance, despite the fact the 18 lots “pay more property taxes and pay for more water” than probably any other area of town.
Public Works Superintendent Russell Overton said the initial developers wanted the road to be private.
“When that was developed it was a private road so it could be a gated community. There are signs that say residents and guests are welcome,” Overton said. “They didn’t want to pay for the paving or anything like that. It was never dedicated to the town.”
Merrell said the new HOA is interested in pursuing possible options for the future of the road, as 99 percent of their HOA fees go toward road maintenance.
“As much money as we put into the town, would the town be willing to help us maintain our road? We feel we’re good citizens and we do pay a lot of taxes into the town but we don’t get any help with the road,” Merrell said.
The board directed staff to research the history of the subdivision and determine the legal status of the road and what options are available.
The board also heard a presentation from Tish Starbuck, representing Mind Springs Health and West Springs Hospital, seeking a pledge or commitment of financial support for the construction of a much-needed expanded psychiatric hospital in Grand Junction. (See the Herald Times article at http://bit.ly/2wIZrnX for additional information.)
Meeker School District Superintendent Chris Selle gave the same presentation to the town board he offered at the commissioner’s meeting Monday in his quest to inform community leaders and groups about the facility needs at the high school and bus garage. (See Page 6A in this issue for additional details.)
The board approved a liquor permit for Meekerpalooza on June 2 contingent on determining fencing for the beer garden area. This year the event is moving from Ute Park to the downtown square.
The board also awarded a bid for the town hall window replacement project to Belland Builders/Alpine Glass contingent on a bid bond and addendum. The project is expected to begin in August.