MEEKER | The Meeker Town Board of Trustees held its regular monthly meeting last week at Town Hall, with all members present.
During the meeting, trustees approved key resolutions, reviewed infrastructure needs and continued discussions on long-term governance and water planning.
Trustee Jeff Madison asked about a Lexipol charge, which staff clarified is a policy management service, as well as a roughly $7,000 payment for mechanical services.
Town Administrator Margie Joy said the expense was due to multiple system issues that required several days of work.
Trustees also discussed how permit-related fees should be structured, ultimately agreeing to incorporate them into the town’s existing system rather than creating a new fee schedule.
“We discussed whether to establish new fees or roll them into what we already have,” said Mayor Travis Day. “There seemed to be agreement to keep it within the current structure.”
Under the revised approach, fees will be tied to assessed valuation instead of a flat rate.
“Instead of a flat rate, it’s based on valuation,” said Community Development Director Carly Thompson. “It’s not a new fee — just a different way of calculating it.”
During staff reports, Joy shared updates from Public Works Superintendent Jak Kilduff, who joined by phone. She reported the town processed more than 11,412,096 gallons of water in March. Crews completed photocell replacements, addressed multiple water leaks and continued planning for the 2026 street project.
Trustee Jessica Browning suggested improving the appearance of downtown light poles, including repainting or upgrades to better match newer fixtures.
Trustees agreed the idea could be considered as a future capital improvement project.
Police Chief Eddie Thompson reported 305 calls for service in March, including arrests and citations.
Town Clerk Lisa Cook reported that liquor licenses were renewed for local businesses and that work continues on a water billing system upgrade.
Trustees considered replacing the security camera system at Town Park after the current system is removed. Joy presented a proposal for a new system consistent with other town facilities, at a cost of approximately $29,570 with a five-year service agreement.
“This would leave our park without a security system if we don’t move forward,” she said.
Trustees discussed coverage and maintenance but took no final action.
Under old business, trustees revisited an intergovernmental agreement related to the library board. The document is intended to clarify governance, including appointment procedures and term staggering. “I like this because it kind of gives guidelines,” Day said. “It puts it all in one spot.”
Trustees discussed whether to include specific timelines and how to proceed if Rio Blanco County declines to adopt the agreement. The board approved moving forward with its version and plans to share it with county officials and library representatives.
Joy also reported on ongoing work related to the town’s water rights and park operations. Officials recently met with the district water commissioner to ensure adequate water supply for Circle Park, including irrigation and maintaining pond levels for fish habitat.
The town is also working with an engineering firm on a required water-use study following a favorable court decision, which allows six years to demonstrate beneficial use. “That’s going to include residential, commercial and industrial projections,” Joy said.
Trustees emphasized the importance of conservation amid expected water shortages. “We may have a right to that water, but we want to send as much as we can downstream,” Madison said.
Day encouraged board members to stay engaged in regional discussions and events.
He also said preliminary conversations are underway with Rangely regarding emergency preparedness and mutual support in response to potential flooding or water shortages.
The meeting adjourned with the next regular meeting scheduled for 7 p.m. May 5, 2026, at Town Hall.
Newly re-elected Meeker officials are sworn in during the town board meeting. From left, standing, are Trustee Jeff Madison, Trustee Chris Lockwood, Mayor Travis Day and Trustee Amanda Smith. JARED HENDERSON PHOTO