RANGELY | The Rangely Town Board of Trustees was called to order at 7 p.m. on Jan. 12, 2021. Mayor Andy Shaffer and trustees Richard Garner, Tim Webber, and Keely Ellis attended in person. Trustees Robie and Geer were present via telephone. “There is lots to do,” Town Manager Lisa Piering said. She reported that department supervisors are working on finishing year end projects. Marketing Coordinator Jeannie Caldwell is busy promoting economic development and applying for grant funding. Piering shared the most recent COVID-19 immunization information from Rio Blanco County Public Health. She said the first vaccination clinic did not go well logistically at the Fire Training Center because elderly participants were standing in the cold waiting. Subsequently, the next vaccination clinic was held at the LDS church.
$5,225 was given back to residents and businesses for the 2020 Shop N Dine Program. Since that program started, the Town of Rangely has given approximately $85,000 back.
Rangely Police Chief Hamblin sent two officers to a crisis intervention training. Interviews are being conducted for open law enforcement officer positions.
Piering will be looking into the county budgeted emergency grant funding. The town will be presenting to DOLA for wastewater grants. Piering said this opportunity ends in March. USDA grant funding will be considered for the Kennedy Drive bike/pedestrian path. There are grants available for up to $500,000 through that organization. Piering reported that there will not be enough manpower to complete the required reporting for the State of Colorado’s 5 Star Certification Program. The 5 Star State Certification is a program set up at the county level through an administrative committee who is responsible for developing, implementing and overseeing the program. It encourages businesses to implement safety measures beyond what is already required by public health orders and guidelines determined by state officials to help slow the spread of COVID-19. In doing so, businesses will be able to accelerate reopening through compliance and participation in this program. Depending on where a county falls on the COVID-19 dial, certified businesses are eligible for less restrictive capacity requirements. The voluntary program reassures employees and customers that businesses are adhering to enhanced guidance.
Piering said the town will be adding hours for town employees for the newly mandated 80-hour COVID-19 leave.
A new restaurant opened at the beginning of the week, Pippi’s Soup and Subz opened for business at 258 East Main St. in the Lincare building.
Ellis moved to approve the November 2020 financial statement and Garner seconded it. Webber moved to approve the December 2020 check register and Garner seconded it. Webber moved to approve the Colorado Public Utilities Commission Contract Agreement for $12,079.74 to implement Next Generation 911 ESInet Services. Garner seconded it and the motion passed unanimously. Webber moved to approve application for a CDOT Main Street Grant in the amount of $50,000 requiring a 10% match (including in-kind) for the overlay of the Kennedy Bike Path. Garner seconded it and the motion passed. Webber moved to approve the nomination by the RDA/RDC of Emma Baker to fill the vacated seat on the board. Ellis seconded the motion and they unanimously welcomed Baker on to the board. Webber moved to approve the liquor license renewal for Kum and Go, Garner seconded the motion and it passed with Geer voting against it
By ROXIE FROMANG | Special to the Herald Times
