RANGELY | Rangely’s Board of Trustees met on Jan. 25. Supervisor reports were delivered from Jeff LeBleu and Police Chief Ti Hamblin. Lebleu described in detail several challenges his department has faced due to weather, mechanics and illnesses. Mayor Andy Shaffer thanked LeBleu and the team for the efforts in snow removal, saying, “It’s a thankless job.”
Chief Hamblin updated the board on changes within the police department. The department has hired Bradley Burr as a patrol officer and he was sworn in at the end of the Chief’s report. Burr shared a description of how he found his way to Rangely, Colorado, including close contacts in the community and a longtime friendship with former Lt. Phil Stubblefield, and how grateful he is to be here. The department also began training Kaylyn Duke to transfer from dispatch to patrol.
Town Manager Lisa Piering shared updates including her attendance at the DOLA Roadmap workshop on Jan. 13. The goals were to discuss economic visions including developing job opportunities, businesses and industries to create a resilient workforce, and regional transportation management. Piering felt positive about conversations regarding transportation and understanding the unique challenges that Rangely faces being connected with other counties by Highway 139 and the potential Book Cliffs Highway proposition in Utah. Additional issues that will be discussed in an upcoming meeting include housing choice and access to child care. Piering noted how fortunate the town is to have Giant Step and that they have been able to remain open throughout challenges. The hope is to be able to prepare for the future with Giant Step and its board of directors and prevent the loss of a critical community provider. Piering continued her report by sharing news of the meter reading process and equipment, renovations on a White River Village apartment, and preparations for the next round of grant application submissions. Covid cases have risen and staffing has been very diligent to follow CDC guidelines. Several key pieces of legislation — SB 16 and SB 22-031 — will have significant impacts on Rangely, and both Piering and Trustee Trey Robie mentioned the need to stay informed and active on them. Lisa Piering offered to share a link for AGNC Thursday updates for anyone who wants more background information regarding SB 16.
Town Clerk Marybel Cox shared that only one petition packet was submitted for mayor allowing the town to cancel the election and fill the position via appointment. The December financial summary was approved with a few line items that went over budget. The RDA/RDC and gas fund budgets were to be revised. The RDA/RDC budget needed revision because of additional expenses related to the La Mesa water main project and additional revenue awarded through Main Street grants. The gas fund was to be revised because of the increase in expenses incurred during the February 2021 winter storm. Expenses were higher but still proportionate to revenue.
A resolution was passed to accept Andy Key’s resignation from the RDA/RDC board. Ron Granger was appointed in Key’s place. Granger was also appointed to the Planning and Zoning Board. Piering described Granger’s history as CNCC President and his skills in economic development while advocating for his appointment. The Board additionally discussed replacing the representative to Associated Governments of Northwest Colorado (AGNC) as Trustee Keely Ellis is no longer able to fulfill the role. The Board approved Piering as the representative. Trustee Don Davidson informed the Board of a nonprofit group being formed as part of emergency management that helps rural towns prepare civil defenses in the event of various emergencies. The group has written a book about community needs in the event of a catastrophic event that will be on sale at White River Market soon. Funds will support programs and resources needed for community preparedness, as opposed to individual preparedness.
The next town board meeting is scheduled for Feb. 8.
By KATIE KING | Special to The Herald Times
