During public input at the Town of Rangely’s Board of Trustees meeting Nov. 8, Mark Stamos suggested a proposal for the Town’s support to install a repeater system in the area. The repeater system allows two-way radios to receive better coverage. The repeater transmits 40 watts in the GRMS band. Currently, 2-4 watt radios barely reach a one-mile distance. Stamos shared that he has already approached the county about putting a repeater on Mellon Hill, which is not an option because the State of Colorado maintains the site. The county suggested a site north of Deserado Mine or Raven Ridge. The site north of Deserado Mine could potentially reach as far as Dinosaur. The site’s elevation where they can install the repeater matters to its functional capacity.
The purpose of this proposal would increase public safety, especially in recreation. When people are out of cell service range, they will have access to call for help if necessary. The repeater also increases access to civil defense and emergency preparedness situations that citizens can access. Since cell service is unreliable in our area, having another means of communication increases public safety. Town Manager Lisa Piering promised to do further research. Trustee Don Davidson informed the council of Stamos’ hard work on this matter. Trustee Tim Webber asked about a ballpark cost for the project, wattage and power supply for the repeater. Stamos described the unit would require 110W with 12V input and could be supported with solar panels. The biggest challenges are the maintenance of the antennas and towers. The repeater is a small box that easily fits in a car. Stamos will also be working out the utility and maintenance with the county.
Piering led her report to the board with updates regarding building and maintenance work on the side entrance door at the police department. Jeannie Caldwell, Marketing and Economic Development Coordinator, attended the Main Street conference and has begun conversations with Moon Lake Electric on dark skies designation. The cost of exchanging lighting to meet the qualifications for that designation will cost about $30,000.
The Polar Plunge fundraiser for Special Olympics, initially scheduled for Saturday, Nov. 19, is canceled this year. This event may be rescheduled in the spring.
New business included:
- Discussion and action to approve the October 2022 check register
- Discussion and action to approve a DOLA IIJA Local Match grant submission for matching Funds for the Federal Direct Spending award funding the proposed Cogency solar project in the amount of $3,000,000
- Discussion and action to approve an ARPA Local Assistance and Tribal Consistency Fund grant submission not to exceed $1,197,915.99
The public is encouraged to attend the Board of Trustees meetings to share their input or be informed. The Board of Trustees meets on the second and fourth Tuesdays at 7 p.m. at the Town Municipal building.
By KATIE KING | Special to The Herald Times
