RANGELY | The Board of Trustees heard public input from several associations about their prerogatives. René Harden asked the town for funding at the Community Garden for needed tools.
The Rio Blanco County Pioneers Association invited the Board to its annual dinner dance on June 3, 2023. It is held in Meeker. The association cannot host in Rangely if they don’t participate.
Elaine Urie addressed the Board to request language changes to resolution proposal 2019-02, which states that the Town of Rangely “intends to become” a sanctuary town for firearms in the event that the State of Colorado enacts legislation to restrict firearm rights. Urie encouraged the Town to change the language to say that the Town of Rangely is a sanctuary town. The resolution would prohibit the Town and its employees from enforcing laws restricting firearm rights. The trustees expressed concerns that the resolution would hold the Town accountable financially to fight the State government. The town appreciated the efforts of Urie and her partners in this effort.
Mark Stamos addressed the Board regarding his efforts to install a repeater site near the Town of Rangely to increase communication accessibility in and around the Town of Rangely. The Town requested time to research the site and the process of utilizing it. Stamos is hopeful that an abandoned location on Raven Ridge will be suitable.
Town Manager Lisa Piering updated the Board regarding the Town’s initiatives and progress. The Town departments and employees have been busy with the standard maintenance routines. The Town will perform a trash pick-up day in June for seniors and those with specific hardships. Projects at White River apartments include garden beds and sewer maintenance. Anyone 17 and older looking for employment can apply with the town for a position watering the town flowers. Piering and the Board of Trustees discussed multiple aspects of grounds work, some of the challenges presented, and potential future options that might help increase productivity and accessibility for groundskeeping needs.
Trustee Don Davidson addressed the Board. He asked Piering for an update on the Cogency project, which is on track. Davidson notified a company named “Groundworks” from Grand Junction that helps with older housing foundations. An organization called “Ride the Rockies” is planning a trip to Rangely in 2024. This will be a tourism investment.
Trustee Tim Webber asked for an audit of grant applications from Piering. Webber also attended the “Night of the Museum” at Colorado Northwestern Community College and stated that the Board has upcoming work to do.
Mayor Andy Shaffer thanked the Board for their ability to communicate and cooperate for the best interest of the Town. Shaffer asked for an average calculation of the tax revenue increase of the last few months. Webber asked about using the revenue to boost local events. Shaffer thanked the Board for attending the Meet and Greet (held on April 23, 2023). Shaffer hopes they will host these biannually and allow the public to ask questions.
The Board discussed and acted to approve the liquor license renewal for Perry Investments DBA Main Street Pub. The Board discussed and acted to approve a grant request through the Department of Justice for the Smart Policing Innovation Grant program to cover Central Square, 911, and CAD/ RMS upgrades in the amount of $102,297 with a $10,000 match from the Town of Rangely. Piering is not confident that the town will get the approval, but it is worth the attempt. The equipment will save the Town thousands of dollars, per Mayor Andy Shaffer. The motion was approved.
BY KATIE FAYE KING | Submitted to the Herald Times
