RBC | In addition to hearing public comment on term limits, the Rio Blanco County Board of Commissioners approved contracts and funding transfers tied to infrastructure and long-range planning during the meeting last week in Rangely.
Commissioners unanimously approved awarding a contract to Civic Forum Associates, Inc, for a fairgrounds facility improvement assessment, following a competitive proposal process.
Operations Director Eric Jaquez said the project will focus primarily on restroom upgrades and improving accessibility under the Americans with Disabilities Act, along with evaluating potential improvements to the main arena building.
Five qualified firms submitted proposals. Staff identified Civic Forum Associates and SEH Inc as the top contenders.
Civic Forum submitted a base bid of $30,000, compared to SEH’s $53,900, with significantly lower optional service costs as well. Staff also cited Civic Forum’s familiarity with county facilities and past work, including arena and school projects, as a factor.
The project originated from ongoing issues with outdated and failing restroom facilities at the fairgrounds, particularly during large events.
“We didn’t want to throw good money after bad,” Commissioner Doug Overton said, explaining the decision to pursue a broader assessment rather than temporary fixes.
Design work is expected to begin soon, with construction targeted for late 2026 or early 2027 to avoid peak fair season.
Commissioners also approved transferring $109,000 in federal aviation funds between the county’s two airports to support long-range planning.
The funds, provided through the Federal Aviation Administration’s Airport Improvement Program, will support a master plan update for the Rangely airport.
Because Rio Blanco County operates both Meeker and Rangely airports, it can shift funding between the two to complete larger projects. The updated master plan will guide future development, including runway, taxiway and infrastructure improvements, and is required every 10 years.
Officials said the project cost has been reduced from an initial estimate of $500,000 to approximately $388,000 after refining the scope.
During a legislative update, county officials reported several developments at the state level, including:
• Opposition efforts helped halt two appointments to the Colorado Parks and Wildlife Commission after concerns from local governments, agriculture groups and sportsmen organizations.
• A new petition before the commission could affect wolf depredation compensation and wildlife management rules.
Ongoing negotiations continue on proposed restructuring within the Colorado Department of Human Services, including changes tied to SNAP administration and county responsibilities.
Commissioner Jennifer O’Hearon said details of the human services proposal remain fluid, particularly regarding potential financial impacts to counties.
Emergency Manager Rich Garner reported progress on a countywide emergency operations plan required for state and federal coordination. The plan, currently under development, outlines agency roles and procedures during disasters such as wildfires, floods or severe weather.
Garner also highlighted:
• Coordination with the National Weather Service to improve flood and runoff forecasting in burn scar areas
• Ongoing wildfire mitigation efforts near infrastructure and residential areas
• Expected reimbursement of approximately $143,498 for road and bridge work tied to past emergency events
• Garner emphasized the importance of improved detection and response tools in remote areas of the county.
Commissioners closed the public hearing on term limits without taking action. A second hearing is scheduled in Meeker, after which the board may decide whether to refer the issue to voters.
Commissioners entered into executive session late in the meeting to receive legal advice related to eviction litigation matters. Upon returning to open session, the chair confirmed no improper discussion or action occurred outside the stated purpose of the executive session. No formal action was taken.
Beginning May 5, work sessions will be held at 9 a.m., followed by the regular Board of County Commissioners meeting at 1 p.m.