If temperatures warm too quickly, the Upper Gunnison River Basin’s high snowpack could lead to flooding in some areas as the snow begins to melt.
On Monday, April 17, Gunnison County Emergency
RIVER FESTIVAL: All summer long, A8
COMMUNITY: Tutor receives Rotary Club’s
SPORTS: GHS baseball wins three in a row, B9
OBITUARIES A2
OPINION A4
CLASSIFIEDS A13-A17
SPORTS B9
Bella Biondini Times EditorAlthough progress is slow, City of Gunnison staff are exploring a multitude of shortand long-term projects to put an end to speeding in the city and increase pedestrian safety.
Traffic safety has been an ongoing concern for the community and is outlined as a high priority within the city’s strategic plan, said Community Development Director Anton Sinkewich. While staff have numerous overlapping projects underway that are “long range endeavors,” part of the process
included finding a handful of “quick wins” that could be placed on the ground as soon as this spring. Sinkewich gave city council an update on citywide street safety planning during a regular meeting on April 11.
Hoping to make some more immediate chan ges, councilTraffic A6
Gunnison County’s next affordable housing development is just months away from welcoming its first residents. This week, county officials broke ground on the first phase of Sawtooth, an affordable housing development located on county-owned land on South 14th Street, just west of the Gunnison County Fairgrounds. Officials hope new residents will begin moving in by the end of the summer.
The development is named for Sawtooth Mountain, which peeks over the southern skyline of Gunnison, beyond W
Mountain. The name is meant to elicit that essential connection to the natural world, said County Commissioner Jonathan Houck at the ceremony.
“This space, where essential
workers and people in our community live, is still connected to open space and to the wild spaces and all the other aspects of this community that make it important for those of us that
live here,” he said.
The prefabricated units were built by Fading West Construction, a Buena Vista modular housing manufacturer. The project is split into two phases. Phase one will add 18 units to the valley’s housing stock, and the first units are expected to be available this summer. Most of the modules are already built and sitting in Salida, just waiting for trucks to bring them over Monarch to the final resting place. Phase two will be completed in 2024, and offer an additional 30 units.
The 18 modular units are made up of six duplex buildings and six single-occupancy spaces with two-car garages behind the duplexes. Each unit will have yard space and be heated with ground-source heat pumps, which are two times more efficient than elec-
I consider Gunnison God’s country. Why is that? Because of the beauty of it. Because of the people. The people you get to know are what it’s all about.
Frederick S. HaverlyMorse intercept specialist and was assigned 15 months overseas duty.
See story on B1
This week, Gunnison County Commissioners approved a $367,000 design contract with engineering firm Mead & Hunt for construction at the Brush Creek intersection. The intersection is a part of the larger Whetstone affordable housing development project along Hwy. 135.
The contract covers 50% of the design, and will lay out changes to the intersection. The design includes a proposed roundabout, pedestrian underpass, transit stops and connections with the multimodal Deli trail running south of Crested Butte. The county has already worked with the firm for initial designs of the intersection.
Mead & Hunt was selected from four candidates who responded to the bid. The contract will get the county to a point where it can use the designs to levy additional project funding from the state.
Colorado Parks and Wildlife is proposing updates to state wildlife area (SWA) regulations to help manage increasing recreation demand.
Gunnison County houses more than 15 state wildlife areas, which are state- or privatelyowned lands that offer wildliferelated recreation to the public. While most activities focus on hunting and fishing, each SWA has different allowed activities, based on location and available resources. These parcels of SWA land are paid for by sportspeople and managed under state law by CPW employees for the benefit of wildlife.
The proposed regulation changes are tentatively scheduled to be discussed at the May Parks and Wildlife Commission meeting before final consideration and possible adoption at its June meeting. The public can learn more and provide feedback on engagecpw.org through Wednesday, May 24
Frederick S. Haverly, 89, was welcomed into the arms of his wonderful, loving Lord and Savior on April 11, 2023, in Gunnison, Colorado.
Born in the small town of North Blenheim, New York, he was the third and youngest son of Byron H. and Gertrude A. Haverly. After attending the one-room schoolhouse in North Blenheim for the first six years of his schooling, he graduated valedictorian of Gilboa Central School, where he was also a member of the National Honor Society. Throughout his high school years, after school and during the summers, he gained valuable business experience while working in and managing the family's general store.
He earned his bachelor’s degree in business administration from Syracuse University where he graduated cum laude. After college graduation, he was drafted into the U.S. Army where he was trained as a
After working as an insurance adjuster in New York State, he pursued and earned his master’s degree in education at State University of New York, Oneonta, and his MBA in accounting at Syracuse University. He was a certified public accountant in Ohio and Colorado. He held membership in the American Institute of Certified Public Accountants and was an associate member in the Institute of Internal Auditors. While a professor of accounting in New York State, he received a fellowship in business from the Foundation for Economic Development from the Niagara Mohawk Power Corporation.
While attending graduate school, Fred met his future wife, Leta Joy. They celebrated 61 wonderful years together. They spent their first years together in New York State where Fred taught at the grade school and the college levels. During their summers off, they did extensive traveling across the U.S.
While living in the East, he and Leta welcomed two wonderful sons into their family. Fred worked as an internal auditor for a national accounting firm. Later, while he served as corporate auditor for May D&F Dept Stores in Ohio, the family transferred West to the Denver area, to a part of the country Fred had fallen in love with during their summer travels.
Living in the Denver area while Fred worked as an audi-
On April 4, 2023 at 5:03 p.m., Silas Hartner was born to Sidney and Joshua Hartner of Gunnison. He weighed 6 lbs. 8 ozs. and measured 20 inches in length. His grandparents are Jim and Missy Bare of Gunnison, Kevin and Beth Hartner of Maryland and Sonny and Aimee Brassfield of Arkansas.
tor for the State of Colorado, the family attended a conference for Fred at the college in Gunnison. It was love at first sight for him and the boys, and it just so happened that an opening for a business professor had occurred at Western State College. Fred applied and was accepted for the position, and the family moved here. They raised their two boys here and were very pleased with the public school system and activities which were available to them. Fred taught in the business and accounting department for 21 years and retired as Emeritus Associate of Business and Accounting.
Fred loved the Gunnison Country and was an avid and very successful hunter and fisherman. He had many friends here and was well liked by the community. Fred was active in community and church activities, having served on the Gunnison High School Parents Advisory Committee, was a Young Life Committee member and served in the Retired Senior Volunteer Program, where he received the 2011 Outstanding Volunteer Award.
He was a member of the Gunnison Valley Hospital Board of Trustees for five years. During that time, he served as secretary of the board, chairman of the finance committee, served on the executive compensation committee, was the liaison with GVH Foundation, and participated in oversight of GVH Senior Living Center and Willows Assisted Living Center. He also served as the faculty sponsor of Western’s Campus
Crusade for Christ group. He has served his various churches in the capacities of treasurer, chairman of the finance committee, college Bible study teacher, and he worked with the Awana Program for Young People.
Fred accepted Jesus Christ as his personal Lord and Savior in Cleveland, Ohio in 1971 and made a public profession of his faith by being baptized the next year in Denver. Fred recently said that, "...the most important decision I ever made in my life was when I accepted Jesus Christ as my personal Savior. I am a Child of the King, forgiven of my sins, and, after I die, I will live forever in heaven with my Lord and Savior, Jesus Christ, because of what He did for me."
Fred's values in life were based on God's Word, the Bible. He believed what the Lord Jesus Christ said in John 11:25-26: "I am the resurrection and the life. Whoever believes in me, though he die, yet shall he live.”
Fred was predeceased by his parents and two brothers. He is survived by his wife, his sons, his daughter-in-law, grandchildren and several nieces and nephews and grand nieces and nephews. His sons remarked: "Dad finished well. He was kind, gentle and caring to the end." A wonderful son, husband and father and grandfather has gone to his reward. He will be greatly missed by those whom he loved and who loved him.
A memorial service for Fred will be held in late May. To God be the glory!
4 bdrm/2 bath, 1920sf home and a fully remodeled basement with 2 car detached garage conveniently located near the new library & trail system. Includes a cozy great room & bonus room for storage or crafts. Easy to show! 108 Irwin Street; $639,000.
MOTIVATED SELLER 3 bedroom/2 bath year round home with woodstove, large open kitchen, laundry room & work shed in Pitkin. Built in 2012, great condition, tile entryway, tucked away in the trees. 832 River Street; $449,000.
DEVELOPMENT OPPORTUNITY
chance to purchase R-3 lots & finish the West End Townhomes for a spec option, rental investment or employee housing. City approved site plans allow for two more duplex units. Water & sewer taps are already installed. Centrally located near the schools & RTA bus stop. 817 W. Denver Ave.; $350,000.
MAKE AN OFFER 3 bdrm/2 bath, ranch level home with a walkout basement. Open kitchen & dining area with a pellet stove. Property has an attached oversized 3 car garage. Over 1,800sf with great southern views of Sawtooth Mountain & W Mountain. No HOA or covenants. 851 County Road 18; $399,000.
NEW LISTING
Well maintained 3 bdrm/2 ½ bath nearly 1,700sf home with additional family room & attached 2 car garage features a fully fenced backyard on just over half an acre. 430 Fairway Lane; $699,000.
OVER 1,900SF log cabin on 35 acres features 2 bedrooms, an open living room & kitchen with custom made oak cabinets, Upstairs loft includes additional beds for guests & the woodstove keeps the cabin warm. Well in place & solar panels for electricity. Seasonal pond and sold partially furnished. Lot 1 Stratman Subdivision; $425,000.
WHITEPINE LAND Very nice lot in the town of White Pine about an hour from Gunnison. This is a great location to park your RV. 9900 County Road 888; $25,000.
OHIO CITY Opportunity knocks at Sportsmans Resort! Year-round access location, mature trees, positioned on 1.28 acres, would make a great retreat or base camp. Ride Cumberland Pass over to Taylor Reservoir for the day. 116 County Road 771; $499,900.
IMMACULATE CONDITION 3 bdrm/2.5 bath, 1,348 sf townhome with first floor master bedroom and laundry room. Kitchen has been fully renovated with quartz countertops and lighting. Property has a fully fenced backyard. 50 Bambi Lane; $565,000.
HOME ON 50 ACRES in Ohio City features an excellent mixture of wildlife, nearby trails, aspen, pines & 300 feet of Gold Creek frontage. 3 bdrm/2 bath house, huge attached garage, large detached barn, touched by Forest Service lands. 5498 County Road 771; $1,750,000.
NEW PRICE Fantastic opportunity to run your business out of this 2535sf shop with two 14 foot garage door openings, as well as an 8 foot garage door, ¾ bath & a ½ bath and 665sf of office space. Fully fenced & secure yard for company vehicles, garage doors & new forced air heaters. 555 S. 10th St.; $875,000.
NEW LISTING 1 acre river front property on the Ohio Creek. Property has electric to the lot line with central sewer available. Water is serviced by a shared well. 205 Spring Meadows Trail; $349,000.
This year, some vacant property values in the Gunnison Valley are expected to increase by as much as 100%, and some residential values by 70%, an uptick caused primarily by the hot housing market in 2021-22.
In just a couple weeks, property owners around the valley will receive their notice of valuation in the mail, which will likely show a significant increase in their property value. Because the county uses total assessed value to calculate property taxes, this will translate to a bigger bill down the road, said Gunnison County Assessor's Office Communication Manager William Spicer.
“This stuff is incredibly dry to people right up to the moment they open an envelope,” he said. “The two times that our phone rings off the hook are in the month of May, and then January, when the tax bill goes out.”
Gunnison County is not alone. According to an April 17 press release from the Western Colorado Assessors, all property owners in Western Colorado can expect “tremendous valuation increases” when they receive their 2023 notices. But amidst other Western Slope counties, Gunnison property values are among those rising the most, averaging a 53% overall increase in residential property value compared to a 46% slope-wide average.
To calculate 2023 property values, county assessors use an analysis of comparable sales that occurred up to June 30, 2022, a state-mandated method called the sales approach. The housing market during this time saw rapid increases
in property sale prices, partly due to the COVID-era migration to resort towns and the federal government lowering interest rates. But because the housing market in Gunnison has been cooling down the last few months, the year-delay in appraisal date can create some confusion.
“One of the things we spent a lot of time explaining to property owners is this difference between what your house is worth today versus what it was worth on the appraisal day,” Spicer said.
In a resort community like the Gunnison Valley, property values often mirror other counties driven by tourism. Resort counties follow a more “rollercoaster” valuation trend, compared to the Front Range which has seen steady growth since the 90s. These communities also tend to lag behind the Front Range with huge swings in the market. Now, as the market trends back down, it's unclear how large the dip will be, Spicer said.
The county assessor’s office estimated that 2023 property tax revenues levied by all taxing entities in the county — or 2024 collections — will increase by 22%, from nearly $60 million to just over $72 million. Most 2023 tax bills will also increase due to two voter-approved ballot measures: the Gunnison Watershed School District’s bond issue and Metropolitan Recreation District’s North Subdistrict mill levy — collectively adding nearly $5.5 million in new tax revenue in 2023.
It’s important to remember that tax bills don’t follow increases in property values one-for-one, Spicer said; a 40% increase in property value is not necessarily a 40% increase in the owner’s tax bill. This is because assessment rates for some classes of property are dropping this year, and most taxing entities are subject to statutory revenue caps, driven by the Taxpayers Bill of the Rights (TABOR) and the
Gallagher Amendment, that force taxing entities to reduce their levies to stay within those limits.
Inevitably, with new valuations comes a long process of appeals, Spicer said. The office has to respond to those appeals by mid-August, but property owners can appeal those decisions to the next level, the County Board of Equalization, which is composed of Gunnison County Commissioners and, in the last several years, licensed appraiser Walt Sorrentino.
When appraisers go back to a home where an owner has requested an appeal, they will look at a variety of things, Spicer said, including the condition of the house and the square footage. There are roughly 20,000 ownership parcels in Gunnison County. On average, the assessor’s office will do between 600 and 2,500 appeals a year, and adjust about half of the appeals brought to the office. Most see a reduction in the property value, but it does not always go in the direction the owner intended, Spicer said.
“Sometimes it's one of those unfortunate things — it’s not we don't do it to be mean spirited — but if we go out to your house, and then we find out has a big addition on it that we didn't know about it, of course we’re going to deal with that,” he said.
Most times, the appeals are claiming the valuations are too high — unless the individual is trying to sell a house or a property, in which case they make an argument for a higher value.
“It's the great irony of our job,” Spicer said. “We’re giving people this tremendous news that the biggest asset they own just went up in value. They say ‘yes!’, but [realize] ‘now we have to pay taxes.’”
(Abby Harrison can be contacted at 970.641.1414 or abby@gunnisontimes.com.)
THE CHURCH IN EPHESUS: GOOD AND BAD “I know your works, labor, patience, testing...perseverance...
Nevertheless, I have this against you, that you have left your first love...Remember...repent...”
Revelation 2:2-4
Selected and provided by Gene Siemer
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THE GUNNISON COUNTRY TIMES (ISSN 0892-1113) is published weekly by Alan Wartes Media LLC., 218 N. Wisconsin St., Gunnison, Colorado 81230. Periodical postage paid at Gunnison, Colorado. POSTMASTER: Send address changes to: The Gunnison Country Times, 218 N. Wisconsin, Gunnison, CO 81230-0240
Winter Hours: 9 a.m. - 4 p.m. Monday through Friday
The arrival of April means it's time for our annual migration back to the golden sandstone cathedrals of the desert. They always provide temporary relief from the lump in my throat that develops when the seasons begin to change. As quoted by one of our neighbors in the Crested Butte News, “It feels weirdly like spring. It’s awful.”
As the snow melts, it’s an indication that nearly a third of the year has already passed. In what seemed like the blink of an eye, the ski resorts closed and I traded my skis and ice tools for my road bike and backpacking gear. The days are longer now, and my skin greedily consumes the warmth of the sun when the wind isn’t howling.
The conclusion of winter (although it’s still lingering) instills a feeling not unlike panic. After blissfully skiing the past six months away, reality is returning. In the newsroom we are bracing ourselves for another busy summer ahead. It seems like just yesterday it was July, and I had barely slept for what seemed like weeks.
Spring is the season of change. At the end of May, my lease will expire, forcing me to move for the first time in two years. I’ve felt the heat of the housing crisis in real time. In a cold sweat at night, I’d lay awake wondering if I’d end up on someone's couch for a couple of weeks, or buying time at my boyfriend's house while I tried to find a place that was vaguely within my budget.
Easier said than done.
What will my future be like here if I have a decent job, with a fair salary, but can still barely afford rent? By the look of the real estate ads in our own paper, it’ll be quite a long time before I can afford a house. Will I have to leave the valley one day in order to feel stable? How many of our friends and neighbors feel this way? I scraped by with help from a friend of a friend, and am moving into a new place soon. Even though my rent is doubling, I am thankful. Some things need to change. When I moved to the Gunnison Valley, I was vaguely aware of the housing crisis. The longer I’ve been here the worse it’s gotten. What have we learned? Progress isn’t quite fast enough, and I’d argue that the “missing middle” — the nurses, school teachers, bus drivers, waitresses and builders — what I consider to be the powerhouses that keep our little community on its feet, are still often out of luck.
On Monday, Gunnison County broke ground at the latest affordable housing devel-
opment, Sawtooth. Whetstone plans have been drafted and homes filled at Lazy K (although I could not afford to even rent a room there). Although they’re are definitely some growing pains to be had because change isn’t always easy, with these comes a small glimmer of hope.
The city is scrambling to find a way to make sure residents feel safe walking and biking around their community. As the city engineer told me, crossing the highway at Main and Tomichi intersection is no different than a game of chicken, and not a day goes by where it isn’t terrifying to cross Main on foot.
We’ve all had a few near misses. Some have been accidents. How many is too many until something has to give? Until something must change?
Not all change is good. The idea of having a Starbucks on Tomichi Avenue makes me cringe. Our public lands, one of the crown jewels of Gunnison County, are being overrun, our refuges filled with visitors who may not quite leave it as they found it.
Speaking of refuges, the future of Van Tuyl Ranch has also been called into question. Those long walks with friends, runs to decompress after a stressful day at work or views of the rolling hills that make Gunnison so beautiful, how much are these worth when measured against building more water security?
The community is watching,
with high expectations, as the City of Gunnison prepares to welcome a new city manager. Change is needed. We need a leader who is ready to contemplate some of these questions with us, and send Gunnison spiraling, we hope, in the right direction.
We’ve proven it over and over again, we are open to change. I hope the new manager is able to help the community make some of these difficult decisions, work through these growing pains and save the character of this place — something every single one of us is working so hard to preserve.
While I’ll be moving into a new apartment soon, the first of my own, some things don’t change much. Calving season has begun, and the warmth has returned.
The first backpacking trip of the season is always reserved for the winding canyons of the Dominguez wilderness. Each year, my best friend and I always visit the same dead pinyon pine, the Milky Way often arching above its crooked branches.
In just a few short weeks she will move states away. But as we stood under the old pine, it was like no time had passed at all. And with snow in the forecast, maybe spring will be placed on hold for just a little longer.
(Bella Biondini can be contacted at 970.641.1414 or bella@ gunnisontimes.com.)
2023
Letters to the editor must be 500 words or less. We favor local topics and discourage argumentative letters addressed to particular people. If you reference data, please include sources for fact-checking.
Email letters to editor@gunnisontimes.com or send to 218 N. Wisconsin St., Gunnison, CO 81230. Include your full name, address and a phone number — for our internal use only.
The deadline is Tuesday at 12 p.m. Letters may be edited for grammar, clarity or length.
Editor: I am dumbfounded by a letter scheduled for review in the upcoming MetRec board meeting. The letter essentially is whistle blowing to the FCC, claiming that our local TV station, CBTV 10, is out of compliance on some of the broadcast licenses it holds.
These licenses don’t have anything to do with MetRec aside from their desire to own them. I can’t understand why a publicly funded organization would take such aggressive and hostile action against a decades old local business.
CBTV, as the only TV broadcaster in the Gunnison Valley, is a tremendous community resource. Over the years CBTV has given us so much in the way of accurate weather forecasting, live morning broadcast and donated air time to a variety of community organizations.
CBTV offered the licenses in question to MetRec as a no cost lease, it's hard to understand why they are taking this approach and why they stopped
broadcasting CBTV over the air. I would expect an organization charged with supporting over the air TV would take it upon themselves to find ways to help and support CBTV, not attack and undermine it.
MetRec was founded with a very specific mission. Recently they’ve redefined their mission, alienated core constituents, debruced and passed an additional mill levy.
Is this really the best use of all their newfound wealth? It's not clear what the MetRec agenda is, but these strong arm tactics are surely counterproductive to the mission.
As a former President of KBUT, I strongly believe accessible, community driven broadcast is essential.
CBTV provides that. Time to get with the program MetRec.
Andris Zobs GunnisonWhy the high gas prices?
Editor:
While driving to Utah this past weekend I noticed that
gasoline prices in Montrose, Delta and Grand Junction are 40 to 60 cents a gallon cheaper than gasoline prices here in Gunnison. That seems odd to me. Does it really cost an average of 50 cents more per gallon of gasoline to get a tanker truck to our community?
Recently I had the opportunity to talk to the gasoline delivery driver at City Market. I commented that shutting down the gasoline refinery near Denver has sure bumped our gas prices. He replied that our gas does not come from Denver. It comes from Texas, as it always has. He stated that he picks it up in Colorado Springs and delivers it to the Western Slope.
Driving home I noticed that gasoline prices in Gunnison are about the same everywhere. Every station is charging about the same price. Again, in Montrose, Delta and Grand Junction prices varied station to station by as much as 20 cents per gallon. And they are all much lower than the prices we pay.
Why is this? What is that nasty word the federal government uses to describe situations
like this? Collude, yes that's the word. When competitors get together and raise their prices uniformly.
Not saying that is what is happening here, but it sure makes you wonder when our friends in neighboring counties are paying so much less for gasoline. Considering an average 20 gallon fill up, a 50-cent savings amounts to paying $10 less with each fill up. Larger gas tank, larger savings.
I know our elected officials, especially at election time, tout they have our best interest. Their constituents, number one in their hearts. Which makes me wonder, is anyone looking into this situation? Or have none of them driven out of the valley and noticed how much more we are paying for gasoline here in Gunnison?
Any thoughts?
Jay Hill Gunnison
As Gunnison County Public Works looks down the barrel of a busy road repair season this summer, the long-term question of road and bridge funding remains: how can the county build a sustainable funding model for a department that provides an essential service, but operates on a shoestring budget every year? To remedy the crunch, Gunnison County Commissioners have started to consider a ballot measure asking voters for a tax increase, which could set up a reliable funding stream.
“I think that we do a really good job of squeezing every dollar to maintain what we have in the best way that we possibly can,” said Martin Schmidt, assistant county manager for public works in a March 27 commissioners’ meeting. “But when we get requests for major repaving projects, building a new intersection or looking at any additional services for the public — it really is not tenable with our current budget cycle.”
State statute delineates that the county’s general fund money cannot be funneled to road and bridge, which means that counties are often left scrambling for money to get projects off the ground. Instead, those departments are funded primarily through the Colorado Highway User Tax Fund (HUTF), a shared pool of state funds collected from motor fuel taxes, vehicle registration fees, court fines and more.
HUTF collections are variable and depend on how much gasoline Coloradoans consume. But it is a fixed price on the gallon, Schmidt said, so increasing gas prices don’t lead to increased fee collections. In addition, people spend less money on more expensive gas. As Colorado sees more electric vehicles on the road, HUTF collections may decrease even further.
Part of the issue is simply the cost of doing business. Public Works manages pricey projects that are only becoming more expensive as inflation pushes up material costs. Magnesium chloride, a salt product used to improve road elasticity and reduce dust, currently costs $5,200 a mile but averages less than $4,000 a mile in HUFT reimbursements. Full reconstruction of a road, beyond an
overlay or a chip seal, comes with a $400-600K price tag.
“You hand [another department] $270,000 and say, ‘Hey, this is for an outreach and education program,’ that money goes a huge way,” said County Commissioner Jonathan Houck in the meeting. “You hand Public Works $270,000, that’s not much — whether it’s chip sealing, equipment purchases, anything. That money does not go that far based on the cost of materials and equipment.”
The state took a stab at the road and bridge issue in a 2021 bill, SB21-260, which aimed to create sustainability in the transportation system in Colorado by creating new sources of funding. For Gunnison County, the new funding is projected to produce $1 million over 10 years.
Public Works received $200,000 from the new revenue streams in 2022, but Schmidt estimates the department won’t see the full eff ect of the bill until next year.
“It’s great, but it's a drop in the bucket of what it costs for road maintenance,” Schmidt told the Times
Gunnison County is exploring the option of a voterapproved tax increase with a Western-Slope-based consulting group who has helped other public entities in Colorado draft successful ballot measures. The group will do an analysis of the county’s road system in order to show the “scope and parameters” of the issue, said County Manager Matthew Birnie. Those maps will then help the county draft language for a potential ballot measure.
The partnership is in its infancy, but the county may start public outreach and input as early as next year. The question of voter support for roads is not new, Schmidt said. He’s seen documents and emails dating back to the 90s that discuss ballot initiatives as a way to cover costs.
The City of Gunnison already tried to go to the voters to help solve a similar problem. Last November, the city asked for a 0.5% increase in sales tax to help cover road and curb repair costs, but the measure failed by
a 55/45 margin.
“What we're trying to do right now is tell our story,” he said. “Both financially and in a narrative about the services that we can't provide with the funding we have, and the services we could provide at different levels of funding.”
To accommodate budget constraints, Public Works has not undertaken any major paving projects recently, and staff are seeing many roads “age out,” unable to be maintained without large repairs. Instead of big paving projects, the crew does many smaller road repairs — spot patches, dirt patches and chip seals — all of which have a low upfront cost but present a continued longterm expenditure. Newly paved roads can typically be left for five to seven years before needing crack or chip seals.
Road repair is one of the most common tasks the road and bridge crews do, Schmidt said. The cost of smaller repairs adds up in the long term, and over 15-20 years, approaches the cost of a newly paved road.
“Where we have done a phenomenal job, and I tip my hat to my operators, is in our gravel road maintenance,” he said. “That is because we do it well, year after year and do not waste a single rock of gravel.”
Staff are also running some equipment beyond its lifespan. Most motor graders in the fleet, used to grade roads, are running at 2,000 to 4,000 miles beyond what the manufacturer recommends. Vehicles that fall into disrepair and need a new engine or transmission may cost upwards of $40,000. Going into spring and summer, Public Works will have to cut back on magnesium chloride applications, or laying gravel or asphalt in order to stay within budget for the year.
“We are cash strapped and do everything that we can, within the bounds of our budget, to deliver a very high level of vehicles and safety,” Schmidt said. “And that's really what it comes down to is safety.”
(Abby Harrison can be contacted at 970.641.1414 or abby@gunnisontimes.com.)
ors approved the installation of four new driver “feedback” signs on the outskirts of city limits. Feedback signs are frequently placed a short distance from speed limit signs and show drivers how fast they are going. Council also approved an amendment to the Gunnison Police Department’s policy, recommending officers begin to write tickets for drivers going 5 mph over the speed limit rather than 10.
The city has been working with the traffic engineering group Mead & Hunt and the Colorado Department of Transportation (CDOT) on two overlapping projects staff hope will help create safer streets in town. In 2021, staff launched the design of an “access control plan” for Hwy. 50 and Hwy. 135 — preparing the corridors for future development. Staff used the access plan as an opportunity to concurrently build a traffic safety-specific proposal to reduce the number of speeding vehicles through city limits.
While the access control and traffic safety plans may take years to complete, the city also drafted a set of short-
from A1
Services hosted a multi-jurisdictional meeting to discuss spring runoff and the possibility of flooding in the Gunnison Valley as temperatures rise. Although the upcoming weather forecast is favorable and no cause for alarm, local officials and law enforcement made sure plans are in place and sandbags are available in the case of rapid snowmelt.
Snowpack for the Gunnison Basin sat at approximately 160% of normal on April 9 with more snow on the way. After an exceptionally wet winter, rapid warming has the potential to overfill streams and rivers — putting low-lying areas at risk as the snow finally starts to melt away.
Temperatures above freezing overnight at higher elevations for several days can lead to expedited snowmelt, National Weather Service (NWS)
Hydrologist Erin Walter said during a weather briefing at the start of the meeting. But transitioning into the middle of the week, she said the basin will see the influence of a low pressure system carrying snow and cooler temperatures.
“This downward turn in temperatures is what we want to see for snowmelt,” Walter said. “If we saw a ridge of high pressure over us and all of these temperatures climbing for a prolonged period of time, that's when we need to be on high alert.”
The weather outlook in the short-term is still favoring an uneventful melt. Walter said the NWS isn’t predicting any serious warmups through the end of April, with slightly below normal temperatures and above
term solutions. One of the most notable was temporary curb extensions at the intersection of Main and Tomichi, as well as at Tomichi and Wisconsin.
Sinkewich said staff were hopeful a CDOT grant would cover the cost of the project. But the agency denied the application because it did not want to use the funds for improvements that are not permanent.
Finance Director and Interim City Manager Ben Cowan asked if council members still wanted to pursue a trial run with temporary delineators, or flexible plastic posts. It is possible these would eventually be replaced with more permanent bulb outs. This would reduce the distance pedestrians have to walk to safely cross the highway.
Due to the wide turning radius of 18-wheelers that frequently pass through the intersection, Councilor Jim Miles worried that the extensions, which can be easily mowed over, would create a false sense of security for waiting pedestrians.
“I can see something horrible happening … But what’s the solution? I don’t know,” Miles said.
Delineators are not the city’s first attempt to improve traffic patterns at the busy inter-
section, which channels up to 25,000 vehicles a day during the summer season. In 2018, the Public Works Department received a permit to paint hashed white lines near the entryways of the crosswalk to discourage cars from creating their own turning lanes — encroaching on the area pedestrians could wait to cross the street — at the intersection of Tomichi and Main.
But a fair amount of drivers ignored them, City Engineer Cody Tusing told the Times
“There's so much space in there, I think people just feel almost like it's a right to move in there and make the right turn,” Tusing said. “It's a problem with the width of those lanes. Th ey're so wide it looks like you could run three cars plus parallel parking through there.”
“The paint did nothing,” Councilor Mallory Logan said on Tuesday night. “An even more simplified version would be to just have the delineators blocking a right turn … It's really just that visibility for pedestrians. What I noticed as a pedestrian in Gunnison is it's hard to cross the street and know if there's a car coming in or not because the crown of the road is so high.”
Although it may take Public Works some time to receive a
permit to install and test delineators, drivers can expect four new driver feedback signs on the edge of city limits designed to slow drivers down as they enter town this spring.
One will be placed just north of County Road 13 for southbound traffic passing by City Market, one on North Main Street as drivers exit the downtown area, one for eastbound vehicles by McDonalds and one by Precision Automotive for cars entering Gunnison from the west.
According to Gunnison Police Chief Keith Robinson, the department bases its policies on state and federal laws and officer best practices. Although the existing policies can be modified, police departments are encouraged to follow the standardized guidelines.
Under the guidelines, officers are encouraged to issue tickets to drivers starting at 10 mph over the speed limit, while some leeway is permitted. This leaves room for radar errors and officer discretion, Robinson said.
“We're supposed to work with the community, not intimidate the community … Th at's where we give people breaks [and] warnings,” Robinson said.
But over the past few years,
council has expressed the desire for officers to start making more traffic contacts. In March of this year, Robinson reported that tickets were given 42% the time, up from a historic average of 10%.
“We are, in fact, issuing more tickets,” Robinson said. “That message to the community should be getting out there.”
Despite this, Councilor Boe Freeburn said he still wanted to see more of a “heavy hand” on drivers that fly through town on a daily basis.
“There's a perception out there that chances of getting a ticket in this town are real slim,” Freeburn said. “I would like to change.”
Logan, Plata and Freeburn approved the amendment to the department’s policy as long as it still allowed officer discretion. Miles voted no on the change, and Council Jim Gelwicks abstained.
“I don’t think it helps … When I'm going five miles over in town and nothing happens to me, all you're doing is encouraging, ‘Well, they're just full of hot air.’ If you vote the other way, you're basically saying, ‘Hey, it's okay to speed.’ It's a no-win vote,” Gelwicks said.
(Bella Biondini can be contacted at 970.641.1414 or bella@gunnisontimes.com.)
24-hour coverage starting at the beginning of next week.
While some of the areas have predetermined flood stages or river gauges that can be monitored remotely, others don’t and require a closer eye, Morrill said.
“A lot of it is just going to be visual monitoring,” he said. “If we start seeing water really getting high, it's checking some of these places and making sure that we're still in good shape.”
According to Morrill, the last time Gunnison County experienced serious flooding was 1996. Areas that have been problematic in the past are the bridge on Hwy. 135 near Garlic Mike’s, the Dos Rios areas and low-lying areas in West Gunnison along the river such as the Senior Care Center.
normal precipitation in the forecast.
Particularly at the low- and mid-elevation, the snowpack is significantly above normal for this time of year, said Colorado Basin River Forecast Center Hydrologist Ashley Nielson.
“March was wet and cold, as I’m sure everyone was aware of,” she said. “We held onto snow below 9,500 feet and also accumulated snow. That can be important in terms of high water as we move through the season. Some of the snow we maybe should have already gotten rid of is still around.”
Nielson encouraged local officials to keep an eye on the peak flow forecasts for the surrounding rivers and streams, which predicts what the maximum daily streamflow will be
through the end of July. With a high snowpack, peak flow forecasts throughout the majority of the area are greater than the 90% percentile, she said. On April 17, flows at the Ohio Creek were the third highest in over 20 years and the ninth highest in 100 years at East Almont gauge.
According to Streets and Refuse Superintendent Jason Kibler, the City of Gunnison is fully staffed and has access to loaders and backhoes in case flooding occurs. Although the city and county have sandbags, Gunnison County Emergency Manager Scott Morrill encouraged residents to purchase their own at Ace Hardware, Tractor Supply and Western Lumber.
In the case of an emergency, it ensures staff have enough sandbags to protect pub-
lic infrastructure such as the wastewater treatment plant and the city’s well system. Although this is second to life safety, if a landowner is having problems with high water on the property or flooding, “that’s on them,” Morrill said.
“They need to do the prep work,” he said.
Gunnison County Operations Manager Sparky Casebolt said the department has been keeping a close eye on flood-prone areas. He said staff’s number one concern is Slate Creek, which is running high and has the potential to block off access to Marble along County Road 3.
Montrose and Delta counties are experiencing minor flooding. In Gunnison County, law enforcement will begin monitoring the rivers and creeks with
Morrill encouraged residents who live in a floodplain, but lack flood insurance to sign up early due to a 30-day waiting period. Even if homeowners sign up this week, it will be the middle of May — and close to peak runoff — before it goes into effect, he said.
Morrill told the Times he hasn’t seen any warning signs of flooding in the immediate area yet. Recently, the weather has been warming during the day enough to start melting some of the snow, but still getting cold enough at night that it freezes.
“What we don’t want to do this early in the season is get into that 24-hour melt,” he said. “That's what really causes problems when we still have a large snowpack.”
(Bella Biondini can be contacted at 970.641.1414 or bella@ gunnisontimes.com.)
One of the areas that has been prone to flooding in the is past the Hwy. 135 bridge over the Gunnison River near Garlic Mike’s. Jacob Spetzlertric baseboard heating. Local builder Big C Construction will handle project management, site work and building installation. The county, in partnership with the Gunnison Valley Regional Housing Authority, will open applications for units as they become available.
“We've all seen what building piece-by-piece looks like, and it takes time in this valley,” said County Commissioner Laura Puckett Daniels. "It takes time when we have winters like the last one we did. To be able to go from groundbreaking to people living there at the end of the summer is a testament to the work that [Fading West] is doing.”
Sawtooth units will only be available for rent, instead of for sale, a decision meant to address the “missing middle,” which refers to residents who earn too much to qualify for a deedrestricted mortgage, but too little to purchase in Gunnison’s housing market.
The county does not plan to place formal deed restrictions on the units, and will instead manage rents through a county policy. So far, half of the first 18 units are set aside for residents making up to 80% of area median income (AMI), which
for a two-person household is roughly $56,000. The second half will likely be offered between 80-120% AMI.
Revenue generated from the first phase of the project, which has been fully paid for, will be used to start paying for phase two — slated to start in 2024. Subsidizing the second phase of the project will ultimately allow the county to keep rents low and, later, reinvest resources into the county’s long-term affordable housing plans.
The project was mostly funded through federal COVID relief money; three rounds of stimulus funding through the American Rescue Plan Act of 2021 (ARPA) paid for most of the $6.1 million project. In fact, the county spent all its ARPA funds on the project, a precedent-setting decision that Smith said is a testimony to the county’s commitment to mitigating the affordable housing crisis.
“All of this money went into this project in a way that is going to have a real material impact in our community on the housing crisis,” said County Commissioner Liz Smith. “Down the road, it can generate a sustainable stream of funding for more workforce and affordable housing.”
(Abby Harrison can be contacted at 970.641.1414 or abby@ gunnisontimes.com.)
Phase one of the Sawtooth project will offer the community 18 units. Phase two will offer an additional 30.
Courtesy Gunnison County
Jacob Spetzler
Hosted By:
Join Club Golf Manager, Brian Turner, and Golf Club Restaurant Manager, Roberto Gallardo, in learning about food service options this season at Dos Rios Golf Club.
Grab a cup of coffee, nibble on morning goodies and network BEFORE HOURS!
Friday, April 21st from 8:00 am to 10:00 am 501 Camino Del Rio, Gunnison
Please take notice that term expirations present the opportunity to apply for appointment to the following seats on the Board of Directors of Upper Gunnison River Water Conservancy District:
April 27 – Fly Fishing Film Festival hosted by the Gunnison Angling Society
May 4 – Stoke the Flows! 5 p.m. at Tully’s hosted by American Whitewater
Applications for appointment as director will be accepted until 5:00pm, Friday, May 26th, 2023. To apply, please send a letter of interest for the board seat you are seeking, along with any letters of recommendation, to the Honorable J. Steven Patrick, Chief District Judge, Gunnison County Courthouse, 200 E. Virginia, Gunnison, Colorado 81230, who will make the appointment.
A description of the geographical boundaries of the divisions listed above may obtained from the Upper Gunnison River Water Conservancy District, 210 West Spencer, Suite B, Gunnison, Colorado, 81230, (970)641-6065, sue@ugrwcd.com or from the District’s website: www.ugrwcd.org.
Applications must specify that the applicant has resided within the District for a period of one year and resides in and is the owner of real property within the Division for which he or she seeks appointment. Applicants shall be knowledgeable in water matters.
Hosted By:
with APRIL 25TH 5PM-6:30PM
WESTERN COLORADO UNIVERSITY
- Adult Degree Completion Program
- The Center for Learning & Innovation - Career Services
As runoff season starts, rafters, kayakers and even the class-one-rapid, cocktail-inhand floaters are gearing up for a summer of events celebrating the Gunnison Valley’s many rivers. For the first time, the Gunnison River Festival will stretch across three months, with events starting in just over a week and continuing through early August. The festival, organized by the Upper Gunnison River Water Conservancy District, is meant to bring both ends of the valley together to enjoy the Taylor, East and Gunnison rivers through a series of events.
The goal this year is not only to spread the events out to allow an entire summer of river fun, said Festival Director Cheryl Cwelich, but to support river events that already exist. Partnerships with the Gunnison Angling Society and American Whitewater allow the Upper Gunnison to “really spread our resources out” to other organizations and have a bigger schedule, she said.
“How can we do something a little different, rather than trying to be like FIBArk [in Salida] or another big event like that, let’s maybe try something different,” she said.
The festivities will kick off in just a week and a half with a Fly Fishing Film Festival on April 27, hosted by the Gunnison Angling Society. The celebrations will carry on for three months, and end with a stand up paddle board event hosted by the Lake Fork Valley Conservancy. In between, river-lovers can do everything from enjoying exhibits at the Gunnison Arts Center to sporting a costume to float down the Gunnison River. More events will be added as the summer
May 13 – Tacos for Trash River Clean Up at the Whitewater Park at 10:30 a.m. or 10 a.m. at Jorgensen Park hosted by the City of Gunnison
May 19 – 4th Grade Water Festival hosted by the Gunnison Conservation District
June 2-30 – Arteries of the Earth Art Exhibit hosted by Gunnison Arts Center
June 3 – Outdoor Expo & Fishing Derby at Pac Man Pond at 9 a.m. at Jorgensen Park hosted by City of Gunnison
June 9 – Taylor Downriver Race at the Slot at 5 p.m. hosted by the Upper Gunnison River Water Conservancy District.
July 22 or August 19 (weather dependent) –Sunni Gunni Costume Float & River Celebration starting at 10 a.m. at Shady Island and ending at the Gunnison Whitewater Park hosted by Gunnison County, City of Gunnison and the Upper Gunnison River Water Conservancy District
July 29 – SUP San Cristobal hosted by the Lake Fork Valley Conservancy
rolls on, Cwelich said.
“Something that we want to highlight this year is how we celebrate our rivers through river safety, river etiquette and good river stewardship,” she said. “We've talked about how to be a river hero.”
This year will include another iteration of the Taylor Canyon
the Taylor River, starting at the Todd's Slot put-in. The Taylor Canyon race is a high point for Cwelich.
“It’s such a blast to go up and watch the race or be in the race,” she said. “It's just such an amazing stretch of river because it's high alpine rafting, it’s not something you see a lot of here. Typically, it's really more of that canyon type country.”
New this year is the Sunni Gunni Costume Float and River Celebration, which will start at Shady Island and end at the Gunnison Whitewater Park. Community members can don their most exceptional and exciting costumes to float down the river and enjoy the heat of a Gunnison summer. Floaters will exit the river to a full-fledged barbecue on the shores of the Gunnison River, an addition meant to make the event more inclusive to all community members.
High river flows may force organizers to move the event, currently slated for July 22, later into August as predictions for river flows at that time are looking steep, Cwelich said. As of April 19, snowpack in the Upper Gunnison River Basin sat at 160% of average and with runoff season starting, river flows in the basin are already starting to rise. The River Festival board will keep an eye on flows as runoff season accelerates, and may have to move a few events around to accommodate high flows.
mental part of the celebration, tary Alana Nichols.
“The value is practicing river etiquette,” she said. “For the past two decades, we've been in this megadrought. I think it's important for our valley to understand the importance of protecting our rivers and water conservation not only just for our basin, but also for the state and for the Colorado River Basin.”
Education is not just for protecting rivers, Cwelich said. Last year, she saw folks floating down the river in pool toys or without personal flotation devices (PFD). Toys can pop and sink, leaving plastic in the river for years and floating without a PFD poses a huge safety risk to floaters.
Community members can give back to the river by participating in the Tacos for Trash River Clean Up at the Whitewater Park, but they can also give back to their community, by donating a can of food to the Gunnison Country Food Pantry, which will be tabling at the costume float.
“We have incredible runoff and it will be a fun, rowdy year on the river to come out and join us, whether it's on a raft, a kayak or even just joining us down at the Whitewater Park to picnic,” Cwelich said.
(Abby Harrison can be contacted at 970.641.1414 or abby@ gunnisontimes.com.)
On Thursday, April 13, the City of Gunnison hosted its second ‘Meet the Candidates’ forum at the Gunnison Rec Center. The event gave community members a chance to ask the four candidates vying for the vacant city manager seat questions and provide feedback that will help city council select Gunnison’s next leader. Although the first search was unsuccessful, staff are hopeful a new manager will be in place by the beginning of July.
4 bedroom/2 bath home with 2 car detached garage all conveniently located in the Palisades subdivision. Wonderful opportunity to own a 1,920 square foot home with 3 bedrooms upstairs with a full bathroom and 1 additional bedroom downstairs with a 3/4 bathroom. The fully remodeled basement features a cozy great room and a bonus room for storage or crafts. The best part of this property is its location to the Van Tuyl trail system, the new Gunnison County Library and shopping stores. Incredible opportunity in the city limits!
SATURDAY, APRIL 22ND FROM 10:00AM TO 1:00PM
108 IRWIN STREET • $639,000
26 Meadowlark Trail $995,000 MLS 792288. Built 2022 4bed 3bath 2471 sqft.
26 Meadowlark Trail is the newest home within highly coveted North Elk Meadows subdivision. This custom home is meticulously built and designed from solid cedar including the exterior siding with rock accent. Large foyer with vaulted 18 feet ceilings, a large 8 x 24 back deck, solid wood front door, abundant windows throughout the home giving natural light and views of Carbon Peak, Red Mountain, Flat Top and SignalPeak. This property has an open kitchen with 9 ft ceilings throughout the main level.
304 C Van Tuyl Circle - $392,000 - 2 bed/1.5 bath Townhome located in the Van Tuyl Townhomes. This unit is a well kept, 2 story townhome with all appliances included and completely fenced front yard. Great location that is centrally located in town and close to Van Tuyl trails, grocery store and shops and blocks from the bus stop. Call for a showing today!
Lazy K, Gunnison’s newest subdivision has several units still available for purchase by individuals or institutions/businesses! MORE UNITS COMING THIS SPRING. We have 1 unit at 80% AMI units meaning if you make less than $50k-$70k/year depending on household size, you may qualify to purchase this new 2 bedroom/1.5 bath unit at $268,271! Applications to determine your eligibility can be found at GVRHA.org. To arrange a viewing or questions about the property, please contact Gunnison Real Estate & Rentals.
1207 Van Tuyl Circle, 3 bed 2.5 bath, 1628 sqft $710,000 MLS#798505
This hidden gem, single family home within the Van Tuyl Subdivision consists of 3 bedrooms, 2.5 bathrooms, approximately 1628 sqft. with a detached one car garage with a carport. Updated, move in ready, high ceiling, recessed lights, and open kitchen with an island separating the kitchen from the living room, pellet stove. The abundant natural light from the
A newly organized group called Gunnison County Gun Safety protested at the corner of Main and Virginia streets last Friday afternoon, April 19. The group intends to gather at the intersection every Friday at noon for the foreseeable future.
Covering Data For Calendar Year 2022 | Public Water System ID: CO0126325
Esta es información importante. Si no la pueden leer, necesitan que alguien se la traduzca.
We are pleased to present to you this year’s water quality report. Our constant goal is to provide you with a safe and dependable supply of drinking water. Please contact DAVID GARDNER at 970-641-8322 with any questions or for public participation opportunities that may affect water quality.
General Information
All drinking water, including bottled water, may reasonably be expected to contain at least small amounts of some contaminants. The presence of contaminants does not necessarily indicate that the water poses a health risk. More information about contaminants and potential health effects can be obtained by calling the Environmental Protection Agency’s Safe Drinking Water Hotline (1-800-426-4791) or by visiting epa.gov/ground-water-and-drinking-water.
Some people may be more vulnerable to contaminants in drinking water than the general population. Immunocompromised persons such as persons with cancer undergoing chemotherapy, persons who have undergone organ transplants, people with HIV-AIDS or other immune system disorders, some elderly, and infants can be particularly at risk of infections. These people should seek advice about drinking water from their health care providers. For more information about contaminants and potential health effects, or to receive a copy of the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) and the U.S. Centers for Disease Control (CDC) guidelines on appropriate means to lessen the risk of infection by Cryptosporidium and microbiological contaminants call the EPA Safe Drinking Water Hotline at (1-800-426-4791).
The sources of drinking water (both tap water and bottled water) include rivers, lakes, streams, ponds, reservoirs, springs, and wells. As water travels over the surface of the land or through the ground, it dissolves naturally occurring minerals and, in some cases, radioactive material, and can pick up substances resulting from the presence of animals or from human activity.
Contaminants that may be present in source water include:
•Microbial contaminants: viruses and bacteria that may come from sewage treatment plants, septic systems, agricultural livestock operations, and wildlife.
•Inorganic contaminants: salts and metals, which can be naturally-occurring or result from urban storm water runoff, industrial or domestic wastewater discharges, oil and gas production, mining, or farming.
•Pesticides and herbicides: may come from a variety of sources, such as agriculture, urban storm water runoff, and residential uses.
•Radioactive contaminants: can be naturally occurring or be the result of oil and gas production and mining activities.
•Organic chemical contaminants: including synthetic and volatile organic chemicals, which are byproducts of industrial processes and petroleum production, and also may come from gas stations, urban storm water runoff, and septic systems.
In order to ensure that tap water is safe to drink, the Colorado Department of Public Health and Environment prescribes regulations limiting the amount of certain contaminants in water provided by public water systems. The Food and Drug Administration regulations establish limits for contaminants in bottled water that must provide the same protection for public health.
Lead in Drinking Water
Lead can cause serious health problems, especially for pregnant women and young with service lines and home plumbing. We are responsible for providing high quality drinking water and removing lead pipes, but cannot control the variety of materials used in and removing lead materials within your home plumbing and taking steps to reduce your family's risk. Before drinking tap water, flush your pipes for several minutes by running your American National Standards Institute accredited certifier to reduce lead in drinking water. If you are concerned about lead in your water and wish to have your water tested, contact DAVID GARDNER at 970-641-8322. Information on lead in drinking water, testing methods, and steps
Source Water Assessment and Protection (SWAP)
The Colorado Department of Public Health and Environment may have provided us with a Source Water Assessment Report for our water supply. For general information or to obtain a copy of the report please visit wqcdcompliance.com/ccr. The report is located under “Guidance: Source Water Assessment Reports”. Search the table using our system name or ID, or by contacting DAVID GARDNER at 970-641-8322. The Source Water Assessment Report provides a screening-level evaluation of potential contamination that could occur. It does not mean that the contamination has or will occur. We can use this information to evaluate the need to improve our current water treatment capabilities and prepare for future contamination threats. This can help us ensure that quality finished water is delivered to your homes. In addition, the source water assessment results provide a starting point for developing a source water protection plan. Potential sources of contamination in our source water area are listed on the next page.
Please contact us to learn more about what you can do to help protect your drinking water sources, any questions about the Drinking Water Quality Report, to learn more about our system, or to attend scheduled public meetings. We want you, our valued customers, to be informed about the services we provide and the quality water we deliver to you every day.
TERMS AND ABBREVIATIONS water. in drinking water.
and other regulatory requirements.
in drinking water. There is convincing evidence that addition of a disinfectant is necessary for control of microbial contaminants. below which there is no known or expected risk to health. MCLGs allow for a margin of safety. disinfectant, below which there is no known or expected risk to health. MRDLGs do not reflect the benefits of the use of disinfectants to control microbial contaminants. the risk to public health, or number or severity of violations) to bring a non-compliant water system back into compliance. technique under certain conditions. radium-226, but excludes radon 222, and uranium.
in excess of 5 NTU is just noticeable to the typical person.
• Compliance Value (No Abbreviation) – Single or calculated value used to determine if regulatory contaminant level (e.g. MCL) is met. Examples of calculated values are the 90th
Percentile, Running Annual Average (RAA) and Locational Running Annual Average (LRAA).
minute in two years or a single penny in $10,000. minute in 2,000 years, or a single penny in $10,000,000.
• Not Applicable (N/A) – Does not apply or not available.
• Level 1 Assessment – A study of the water system to identify potential problems and determine (if possible) why total coliform bacteria have been found in our water system.
• Level 2 Assessment – A very detailed study of the water system to identify potential problems and determine (if possible) why an E. coli MCL violation has occurred and/or why total coliform bacteria have been found in our water system on multiple occasions.
The City of Gunnison will not be hand-delivering this report to consumers. Water Quality Reports are available on the City of Gunnison’s website: www.GunnisonCO.gov/waterreport
all detections found in the period of January 1 to December 31, 2022 unless otherwise noted. The State of Colorado requires us to monitor for certain contaminants less than once per year because the concentrations of these contaminants are not expected to vary significantly from year to year, or the system is not considered vulnerable to this type of contamination. Therefore, some of our data, though representative, may be more than one-year-old. Violations and Formal Enforcement Actions, if any, are reported in the next section of this report.
Note: Only detected contaminants sampled within the last 5 years appear in this report. If no tables appear in this section, then no contaminants were detected in the last round of monitoring..
0.139ppm44NoErosion of natural deposits; water additive which promotes strong teeth; discharge from fertilizer and aluminum factories
to 0.789ppm1010NoRunoff from fertilizer use; leaching from septic tanks, sewage; erosion of natural deposits
to 0.788ppm1010NoRunoff from fertilizer use; leaching from septic tanks, sewage; erosion of natural deposits Volatile Organic Contaminants Sampled at the Entry Point to the Distribution System
**Secondary standards are non-enforceable guidelines for contaminants that may cause cosmetic effects (such as skin, or tooth discoloration) or aesthetic effects (such as taste, odor, or color) in drinking water.
THE GUNNISON VALLEY REGIONAL HOUSING AUTHORITY (GVRHA) is accepting proposals for part-time bookkeeping services. Experience with non-profit/government accounting desired. Outline of services needed can be found at gvrha.org, or by emailing akadlec@gvrha. org.
SPALLONE CONSTRUCTION has immediate openings for laborers in the Gunnison, Crested Butte area. Experience required not required, but preferred. Must be able to assist laborer performing physical tasks involved in construction activities. Must have a valid drivers license, references required. $22/hr or higher depending on experience, benefits available after one year of employment. Please submit resume to: office@spalloneconstruction.com.
KDCB IS LOOKING FOR LEAD CARPENTERS AND CARPENTERS. Call 970-275-6969.
NATIVE NECTAR BOTANICALS IN CRESTED BUTTE IS HIRING FOR ONE OR MORE OF THE FOLLOWING POSITIONS: Retail specialist $18/hr. (cashier/sales/ spa receptionist) full and part-time positions available:
-Must have a positive attitude
-Strong work ethic
-Excellent customer service skills
-Have a vested interest in skincare
-Must be willing to learn about all Native Nectar products
-Discussion and engagement with customers about skincare products required
-Spa check-in/check-out responsibilities
-Retail sales experience is not required but welcomed
Spa/retail store manager full-time $25/hr plus PTO (retail sales and management/spa liaison):
-Positive attitude with good communication skills
-Excellent customer service skills
-Experience with spa management or management of people (1-year minimum)
-Booking clients, client interaction, client check-in/check-out responsibilities
-Running the retail store and managing retail employees
-Inventory of merchandise
-Open communication with the production manager
Massage therapist and esthetician (full and part-time positions available) Commission on services and products sold plus tips):
-Arrive early for appointment prep
-Responsible for post-appointment clean up including proper sanitation, laundry, and room turn-over.
-Working knowledge of Native Nectar products used in treatments.
Product plus service discounts are included with the positions. If you are looking to work in a fun, fast-paced, positive environment please send a resume to hello@ nativenectarbotanicals.com.
SUMMER PARKS CREW: Housing
Available. Need housing in CB? Join the Town of Crested Butte parks crew and live in the heart of town at the beautiful Ruby communal housing residence. Enjoy a flexible schedule and be at the center of summer fun in CB. Work is available in April through late fall with a $1/hour-worked bonus for those who complete the season. Landscaping, field maintenance, irrigation and equipment experience preferred but not required. Candidates must be able to work outdoors and lift 50-100 lbs. and possess a valid driver’s license. Full job description and application available online at townofcrestedbutte.com click on “Careers”.
Pay $20-21/hr. DOQ. The Town of Crested Butte is an Equal Opportunity/Affirmative Action Employer.
WESTERN COLORADO UNIVERSITY is seeking innovative candidates for our full time Assets Accountant position.
DUTIES: The Assets Accountant reports to the Controller and provides the University with professional accounting services in the areas of assets, accounts receivable, and general accounting. The position:
• Posts, balances and reconciles GL cash accounts and bank statements.
• Reconciles incoming payments for students, grants, camps and other miscellaneous sources between payment processor software, bank statement and financial software.
• Manages incoming and outgoing cash flow needs for the University.
of newly acquired fixed assets, tracking existing assets and depreciation.
• Audit of daily cashier sessions.
• Matching and review of Accounts payable checks to appropriate invoice, purchase order or encumbrance.
• Submits monthly sales tax reports to City of Gunnison and State of Colorado.
• Reviews Non-resident Alien student accounts, annually prepares 1042 Tax Forms.
• Prepares audit work-papers and engages in annual financial audit.
• Responds to requests from internal and external parties for various financial information and analysis, and aids with the resolution of problems as required.
SALARY: $50,000 - $60,000 per year; FLSA exempt. Position qualifies for an excellent benefits package, including health, dental, and vision insurance plans, retirement plan, tuition benefits, and generous paid time off.
QUALIFICATIONS: Bachelor’s degree in accounting or related field OR four years of relevant experience is required. Knowledge of assets management and accounts receivables principles, methods, and techniques preferred. Successful candidates must possess excellent oral and written communication skills. Successful candidate must be technologically savvy, preferred candidate will have higher education accounting experience and familiarity with WorkDay software.
TO APPLY: Visit western.edu/about/ administration/human-resources/facultyand-exempt-job-announcements/ and select Workday. Required attachments to online applications include a cover letter describing position specific interest, resume, and a list of professional references.
BLIND FAITH CUSTOM WINDOW
FASHIONS is looking for an incredible showroom teammate and installer to join our team. This is a full-time (4.5 days) position. We will need this person to be able to install manual, motorized and wireless shades and blinds in high end residential homes and condos, accurately measure windows and doors for future installation and be able to load/unload products. Excellent customer service, follow through on customer service situations, the ability to use a computer, communicate via email and make phone calls is a must. This team member will also need to have: a Valid Colorado Driver’s License, flexibility (adjust on the fly according to schedule and appointments), respect for co-workers and clients while being dependable and punctual. This is an hourly, plus commission position and a company paid ski pass is provided. Please send a resume or request for an interview to admin@blindfaithcb.com or call Kelly 850-855-8838.
LABORERS AND CARPENTERS
WANTED: Pay starting at $22 an hour and up depending on experience. 3% matching IRA per year after 6 months of work. Some paid holidays. PCI - Professional Contractors Inc. 970-209-6062.
AUTOMOTIVE MASTER TECHNICIAN. If you are curious about how your current job compares to Precision Automotive? EMAIL your resume to precisionauto4040@hotmail.com, call or text Steve at 970-596-9999 ALL INQUIRIES ARE STRICKLY CONFIDENTIAL! Benefits include: PAID VACATION, PAID HOLIDAYS, MEDICAL, DENTAL, MATCHING IRA.
AUTOMOTIVE APPRENTICE Do you love cars? Get your start in the well paid and exciting world of Automotive Repair that could turn into your life passion. Work along side your mentor a Master Certified Technician while completing online modules such as: Electrical, Engine mechanical, Transmission, Drive train, Suspension & Steering, Heating & A/C, Engine Performance and Brakes.
CAR WASH/DETAILER/SHOP MAINTENANCE. Call or text 970-596-9999 for interview. PRECISIONAUTO.NET
IRWIN GUIDES is seeking a part-time seasonal office/sales assistant. The position will be responsible for assisting the Irwin Guides administrator with day-to-day operations included but not limited to data entry, completing and filing paperwork, interacting with guests face-to-face or via phone/email, booking trips and assisting with walk-in traffic and retail inquires/purchases.
A strong candidate will have knowledge of the outdoor industry and local activities, strong administrative skills, effective communication, both oral and written, is detail-oriented, responsive to delegation, and comfortable working independently and in a fast paced team environment. During the operational seasons this position will be required to work some early mornings and late afternoons, at least one weekend day per week, and some holidays as necessary. Qualified candidates should send a cover letter and resume to jobs@ elevenexperience.com. This is a winter seasonal position starting at $18 - $20 a hour depending on experience and qualifications.
PRECISE PAINTING IS HIRING PAINTERS:
Seasonal or year-round full-time. Must be willing to commit for at least Spring/Summer/ Fall. Pay starts at $22/hr. for inexperienced candidates, more with experience. 4 or 4.5 day work week, earn PTO, raises come quickly, opportunity for benefits. Happy to train the right people. Call Rob at 970-5090851.
GRASSY CREEK/ELEVEN MUSIC is seeking an admin. specialist position in Crested Butte. 50% of the responsibilities will be focused on the Public House Live Music Venue and the remaining 50% is
Journeyman & Residential Wireman for projects in the Gunnison and Crested Butte areas. Must have a valid Colorado driver’s license and pass a pre-employment drug screen. Top pay & Benefits. Send resumes to info@ec-electric.com or call 970-641-0195 www.ec-electric.com/careers
remote assistance with the Floki Studios and the Record Label, The Eleven Record club and more. The role will include managing show day artist management, media storage, talent booking, contract negotiations, social media content, website maintenance, accounting tasks, managing album advances, marketing budgets and liaising with distributors and publicists. Strong organizational skills experience with Microsoft Office Suite, Adobe Creative Cloud are required. The salary range is between $45,000-$55,000. Please submit resume to jobs@elevenexperience.com.
TEMPORARY LABORERS NEEDED:
Need some cash this off season? The Town of Crested Butte Parks and Recreation Department is hiring temporary laborers for spring prep/cleanup season. Work will begin once the snow is gone from the majority of parks and public areas. Duties include raking, power washing, painting and general cleanup and repairs. Full job description and application available online at townofcrestedbutte.com click on “Careers”. Pay $19/hour. The Town of Crested Butte is an Equal Opportunity/Affirmative Action Employer.
LOOKING TO GET ROOTED THIS SUMMER? Connect with nature, planting and caring for perennial gardens throughout the valley. Laborer/Gardener positions available May 1-Oct. 31. Experience preferred but will train. Small company, good wages. Horizonfinegardens@gmail.com or 970-275-1020.
Competitive pay, 4O1K, insurance, paid vacations. 40 hour work week. Apply at John Roberts Motor Works.
*Housing is held for Gunnison County employees and may be available for you to rent*
Facilities Maintenance Custodian
Facilities: Full-time, 40 hours/week, hourly rate range from $21.72 to $30.72 plus full benefits.
Fairgrounds Manager Fairgrounds: 40 hours/week, monthly salary range from $5,238 to $6,537 plus full benefits.
Patrol Deputy Sheriff: Full-time, 40 hours/week, monthly salary range from $4,989 to $7,057 plus full benefits.
Public Health Nurse II: Child Care Health Consultant HHS: Part-time, 6 hours/week, hourly rate range from $32.03 to $45.31.
Detention Deputy Sheriff: Fulltime, 40 hours/week, monthly salary range from $4,229 to $5,982 plus full benefits. Only work 14 days a month!
For more information, including complete job descriptions, required qualifications and application instructions, please visit GunnisonCounty.org/jobs.
is seeking applicants for the following State of Colorado Classified positions.
Western’s benefit package includes Colorado PERA retirement, low-cost insurance plans (with generous employer contributions to medical/dental/vision), employee and dependent tuition benefits, paid vacation, paid sick leave, and 11 paid holidays per year. All classified employees receive basic life insurance and short-term disability coverage at no cost.
Employee wellness programs and professional development trainings are available for FREE.
Administrative Assistant III (fulltime): This benefitted position is located in the Office of Academic Affairs. Responsibilities include
clerical office support, receptionist duties, purchasing, travel and event planning, and student worker hiring/supervision. This position provides training and guidance to administrative assistants in various academic departments on campus.
Security I (full-time): This benefitted position is scheduled for night shifts (8 p.m.-6 a.m.) and is paid an additional 14% per hour on weeknights and 20% more per hour on weekends. Responsibilities include patrolling campus, responding to violations and safety hazards, documenting incidents, conducting crowd/traffic control during campus events, working with local law enforcement to respond to criminal activity (as needed).
To view the full job announcement(s) and apply, visit western.wd1.myworkdayjobs.com/western. AA/EOE
To place a 25-word COSCAN Network ad in 91 Colorado newspapers for only $300 contact your local newspaper or email Colorado Press Association Network at rtoledo@colopress.net
NOTICE OF CHANGE IN TARIFFS ON LESS THAN 30-DAYS’ NOTICE
Atmos Energy Corporation (“Atmos Energy”) 1555 Blake Street Denver, Colorado 80202
You are hereby notified that Atmos Energy has filed with the Colorado Public Utilities Commission of the State of Colorado (“PUC”), in compliance with the Public Utilities Law, an application for permission to file certain changes in tariffs, affecting all residential, commercial, interruptible and other consumers in its Colorado divisions to become effective May 1, 2023, if the application is granted by the PUC.
The purpose for this filing is to change rates by revising the Company’s existing gas cost adjustment tariff to reflect changes in the rates charged Atmos Energy by its suppliers for natural gas purchases. The present and proposed natural gas rates are as follows:
To place a 25-word COSCAN Network ad in 91 Colorado newspapers for only $300, contact your local newspaper or email Colorado Press Association Network at rtoledo@colopress.net
THE TOWN OF MT CRESTED BUTTE is excited to announce that we will be hiring a summer horticulture internship. This opportunity is aimed at providing a student with field experience and education in park development, installation and maintenance of various garden projects with an emphasis on xeric, native plant species and conservation.
The second focus of the internship is to develop and implement a public education program to share the important role of native plants, pollinator gardens, and rain gardens in conserving natural ecosystems.
Responsibilities will include, but are not limited to, the following:
-Interns will be required to work 40 hours per week for a minimum of 8 weeks at $25/hour.
-Projects will include primarily outdoor field work in variable mountain and inclement weather conditions.
-Interns will have the opportunity to choose a project from a suggested list or special interest projects approved by the Parks Supervisor.
-Interns must be currently enrolled in a college institution.
-Intern work will be supervised by the Parks Supervisor and other staff.
Primary Tasks:
-Maintenance and selection of drought tolerant and xeric plantings of trees, shrubs, vines, perennials, grasses, and bulbs.
-Perform seasonal landscape work including pruning, mowing, clean-up, bulb planting, dividing and transplanting, and leaf removal.
-Scout and identify pests, disease, and invasive species.
-Participate in trash removal procedures, as needed.
For the full job description please go to mtcb. colorado.gov. If you have any questions, please email or call Tim Roybal at troybal@ mtcb.colorado.gov or 970-349-6632, ext 115.
To apply please email your cover letter and resume to Tiffany O’Connell at toconnell@ mtcb.colorado.gov.
HELP THE ARTS and make good money.
The Center for the Arts is hiring bartenders, event staff, and security staff positions. Join our team of creative professionals working to bring arts, culture and the community together. All levels of experience and availability invited to apply. $15-$23/hour DOE + tips. EOE. Email resume to melissa@ crestedbuttearts.org. Visit crestedbuttearts. org/about/employment/ for more information.
THE TAYLOR RIVER RANCH is looking to hire its summer staff. The positions are from May 15-Sept. 15. We are looking for a couple of cleaning, wait staff and flower gardening people. A yard, firewood and maintenance person. Must have valid drivers license. We pay a good wage and gas allowance. Possible housing. For more info call Rory or Becky 970-641-2606 or email rorynbirdsey@gmail.com.
ESTATE BUT NOT SURE HOW TO GET
STARTED? Coldwell Banker is seeking a broker support specialist to join our team. This position a perfect way to learn the business and get paid to do it! We are looking for an individual who works well with all types of people, has a strong attention to detail, will creatively help with marketing and is capable of implementing systems. The job requires strong computer knowledge for work on a PC in Excel, Word and many web based programs. This is a full time, year round position. Email resume to molly@ cbmp.com or call 970-209-4234.
SUSTAINABILITY COORDINATOR: The Town of Crested Butte seeks applicants for a sustainability coordinator position. The sustainability coordinator performs a variety of professional, technical, innovative and analytical work to advance the Town’s Climate Action Plan both internally and externally. The Sustainability Coordinator provides leadership and coordination of complex projects and is responsible for tracking and reporting on progress toward the achievement of the Town’s sustainability goals. This position is highly visible, working closely with citizens, community non-profits, governmental partners and employee groups to achieve specific sustainability goals Identifies and analyzes sustainability options to the town, its employees and the general public. Works closely with the town manager and department heads to provide guidance and consultation regarding sustainability programs, costs, timelines and other related activities. Makes public presentations to the Town Council. This year-round position includes an excellent benefits package with 100% employerpaid employee and dependent health, dental, vision, life insurance and matching contributions to a retirement plan after one year of employment. Starting salary is $67,000 - $80,000 DOQ. The full job description is available on the Town’s website at townofcrestedbutte.com. Please submit an application, cover letter and resume via email to HR at jobs@crestedbutte-co. gov. The first review of applications will be on April 26. The position is open until filled. The Town of Crested Butte is an Equal Opportunity Employer.
MOUNTAIN EXPRESS DRIVER: Join our free paid cdl training workshop - license and training costs also fully paid. Mountain Express is looking to recruit drivers. Drivers are responsible for safe transport and friendly assistance of passengers as a bus driver on a fixed route and demand response service. Sign On Bonus of 1k after your 10th shift with MX. The Workshop Training starts May 16-June 2. $15/hr. during training. Once your CDL is obtained, the starting wage is $21.85/hr. Health insurance is available based on hours worked. Ski locker benefit.
Please contact Leah Petito at lpetito@
The proposed and present rates and tariffs are available for examination at the business office of Atmos Energy Corporation located at 1555 Blake Street, Suite 400, Denver, Colorado, or at the Public Utilities Commission at 1560 Broadway, Suite 250, Denver, Colorado, 80202.
Anyone who desires may either file written objection or seek to intervene as a party in this filing. If you only wish to object to the proposed action, you may file a written objection with the Commission. The filing of a written objection by itself will not allow you to participate as a party in any proceeding on the proposed action. If you wish to participate as a party in this matter, you must file written intervention documents under the Commission’s rules.
Anyone who desires to file written objection or written intervention documents to the proposed action shall file them with the PUC, 1560 Broadway, Suite 250, Denver, Colorado, 80202 at least one day before the proposed effective date. The Commission’s e-mail address is dora_puc_website@state.co.us.
Members of the public may attend any hearing and may make a statement under oath about the proposed change whether or not a written objection or request to intervene has been filed. Atmos Energy Corporation previously filed a separate gas purchase report in accordance with Rule 4607 of the Commission’s Rules Regulating Gas Utilities to begin the initial prudence review evaluation for the gas purchase year ended June 30, 2022..
mtnexp.org to apply and for a complete job description visit mtnexp.org. EOE
SPALLONE CONSTRUCTION has immediate openings for dump truck drivers in the Gunnison, Crested Butte area. Experience of 3-5 years required. Must be able to assist laborer performing physical tasks involved in construction activities. Must have a valid drivers license, references required. $25-$38 depending on experience, benefits available after one year of employment. Please submit resume to: office@spalloneconstruction.com.
SIGN ON BONUS WITH ROCKY MOUNTAIN TREES AND LANDSCAPING: Now hiring all positions for the 2023 summer season. Come join a great team. To apply and see what positions we have visit rockymountaintrees.com/employment/ or give us a call at 970-349-6361.
GUNNIRENTS is seeking a full time shop technician to perform basic maintenance, cleaning/detailing and occasional repairs to construction equipment. Experience with diesel engines and hydraulics are preferred. Pay $20-25/Hour DOE. Contact Colby 970412-9956.
THE TOWN OF CRESTED BUTTE seeks applicants for a building inspector and efficiency coordinator position to join the Community Development team. The building inspector and efficiency coordinator performs a variety of commercial, industrial, and residential building and safety inspections of new and existing properties for compliance with Town adopted regulations and building codes and coordinates building efficiency and renewable energy programs for the Community Development Department’s responsibilities to the Town of Crested
Butte’s Climate Action Plan. This yearround position includes an excellent benefits package with 100% employer paid employee and dependent health, dental, vision, life insurance and matching contributions to a retirement plan after one year of employment. Starting salary is $50,958 – $60,585 DOQ. Full job description is available on the Town’s website at townofcrestedbutte. com. Please submit an application, cover letter and resume via email to HR at jobs@ crestedbutte-co.gov. The position is open until filled. The Town of Crested Butte is an Equal Opportunity Employer.
GUNNIRENTS is seeking a full time delivery driver to deliver equipment throughout the Gunnison valley. Experience driving and backing up with a trailer is necessary and a class A CDL is preferred. Pay $20-25/Hour DOE.Contact Colby 970-412-9956.
NO EXPERIENCE? NO WORRIES:
We provide on-the-job training. The Town of Crested Butte is looking for a Public Works maintenance worker/heavy equipment operator to fill an open position.
Qualifications: Colorado Commercial Drivers License (CDL) or ability to obtain one within thirty (30) days of the date of employment. Experience driving loaders, rollers, backhoes and other heavy equipment preferred but not necessary. This is a fulltime position with benefits. Starting pay is $40,000 – $57,000 DOQ. Benefits include fully subsidized medical, dental and vision insurance for employees and dependents. Paid holidays, vacation time, sick time, disability insurance, life insurance and retirement are also position benefits. The full job description is available on the Town’s website at townofcrestedbutte.com. Please submit an application to the Town of Crested Butte via email at jobs@crestedbutte-co.gov. The position is open until filled. The Town of Crested Butte is an Equal Opportunity Employer. (1/20/135).
THE ELEVATION HOTEL AND SPA AND JOSÉ CRESTED BUTTE are hiring for the summer season and beyond. Full time team members are eligible for full benefits including medical, dental, vision, PTO, 401k, gym membership, room night discounts and housing. The following roles are available to high quality candidates: Night auditor $21/hour, bellperson $17/hour + tips, front desk agent $20.25/hour, bartender $17/ hour + tips, barback $16/hour + tips, server $15/hour + tips, Host $18/hour, cook $19/
hour, dishwasher/Steward $17/hour, room attendant $18/hour, engineer 1 $21/hour, engineer 2 $22.50/hour, engineer 3 $24/ hour, assistant chief engineer $55-65k/ year, banquet captain $20/hour + tips, food and beverage manager $65-70k/year. For details and to apply, please visit highgate. com/careers.
PROJECT HOPE OF THE GUNNISON VALLEY is hiring an experienced leader to fill the executive director position. Position is a full-time salaried role, with annual COLA increases, plus PTO, paid sick leave, and a health stipend. Full job description and application instructions available at hope4gv. org/employment Email info@hope4gv.org with questions and to apply.
ARE YOU TIRED OF WORKING MULTIPLE JOBS TO MAKE IT IN THE VALLEY? Iron Horse is looking for the right individual to join our expanding property care team. This individual is responsible for property inspections, inventories, and the overall quality and presentation of vacation rentals in our luxury inventory. You will work hand in hand with our maintenance, housekeeping and reservation teams to ensure that our guests experience vacation perfection. Pay starts at $22 per hour plus a company car, health insurance, on-call pay, paid vacation, ski or health and wellness pass, 5 day work week and more. If you are detail oriented, organized, punctual and only want the best, then submit your resume to steve@ ironhorsecb.com and qualified applicants will be contacted for an interview. Clean driving
record is required. No phone calls please.
LOCAL LAWN SERVICE COMPANY looking for a full time seasonal employee, four 10hrs mon-thur May through Oct.. Zero turn mower operation, grass trimming, and general yard maintenance experience necessary. Sprinkler system knowledge and maintenance a plus. Submit resume to j2funke@gmail.com / pay DOE.
GUNNISON COUNTY ELECTRIC ASSOCIATION, INC. is currently seeking applications for a system locator/inspector position. This is a full-time position that will be reporting to the Gunnison headquarters location. This position will be responsible for accurately detecting and marking existing underground electric lines in a timely manner. During Summer months the number of locates per day required is high and requires working in a fast-paced environment while still detecting lines accurately and safely. Diligence is required to complete the high number of locates in a timely manner. Other duties include inspection, GPS and documenting overhead and underground facilities. The pay range for this position is $51,002 - $67,995 per year and is paid on an hourly basis. Starting compensation will be based upon work experience, education, and/or skill level. In emergency and high demand times applicable overtime pay will apply. Upon meeting eligibility requirements this position offers health care benefits, retirement benefits, paid time off and paid scheduled holidays. To see the complete list of duties and qualifications and to learn how
to apply visit our website at gcea.coop/about tab/careers tab. Application deadline May 3.
GUNNISON SAVINGS AND LOAN IS ACCEPTING APPLICATIONS FOR A SENIOR STAFF ACCOUNTANT: We have served the Gunnison Valley for over 110 years and are looking for an individual who wants a career in banking. This position requires a solid working knowledge of Generally Accepted Accounting Principles (GAAP) and strong financial analysis skills. An outstanding senior accountant should also possess strong Excel skills, be detailoriented, highly organized, and able to work with little to no supervision.
Preferred Qualifications:
-Bachelor’s degree in accounting or finance.
-Strong communication skills, both written and verbal.
-Strong organizational skills.
-Proficiency in Microsoft Office, particularly with Excel.
Responsibilities:
-Daily accounting operations of the Association including cash management, correspondent banking, wire transfers, processing rejected in-clearings and rejected ACH payments.
-Preparing journal entries, reconciling accounts, maintaining work papers
-Periodic reporting including preparation of monthly financial reports, payroll tax reports, quarterly FDIC reporting, liquidity projections, interest rate risk reports, CECL reporting, public funds, qualifying collateral, and qualified thrift lender reports.
-Preparing revenue projections and
DIVISION 5 WATER COURT- MARCH 2023 RESUME
forecasting expenditures.
-Preparing accounting work papers for audits and examinations.
Benefits:
-Competitive Salary (entry level skills
$40,0000 - $50,000; higher with experience)
-401(k) retirement plan
-Group life and health insurance plans
-Paid vacation (after 90-day probationary period).
-48 hours of paid sick leave per year
-HSA employer contributions
-Paid Federal Holidays
-Free checking account
Work Environment:
Hours: Mon.-Fri. 8 a.m-5 p.m.
Dress: Business Casual
Please submit your resume, reference, and letter of application to Maureen Eden, Executive Vice President/ Chief Operations Officer
303 N. Main Street, Gunnison, CO 81230 maureene@gunnisonsl.com 970-6412179.
GRADUATING? RETIRED? SKI SEASON ENDED? Come play with us in the dirt! We provide all training to get your early childhood education career started with us, the only nature-based preschool in the Valley. Hiring assistant teachers ($16/hr.) and lead teachers ($18-20/hr.) for our toddler and preschool classes. Flexible full to part-time positions available and benefits provided. Supportive, friendly work environment. Visit wonderlandnatureschool.org or email us at admin@wonderlandnatureschool.org.
(This publication can be viewed in its entirety on the Colorado State Judicial website at: www.courts.state.co.us).
3. PURSUANT TO C.R.S., §37-92-302, AS AMENDED, YOU ARE NOTIFIED THAT THE FOLLOWING PAGES COMPRISE A RESUME OF THE APPLICATIONS AND AMENDED APPLICATIONS FILED WITH THE WATER CLERK FOR WATER DIVISION 5 DURING THE MONTH OF MARCH 2023. The water right claimed by this application may affect in priority any water right claimed or heretofore adjudicated within this division and owners of affected rights must appear to object and protest within the time provided by statute or be forever barred.
23CW3017 GUNNISON COUNTY. Application for Findings of Reasonable Diligence. Applicants: Michael O. Dalton, Suzanne Dalton and Mary McMahon, c/o Balcomb & Green, P.C., PO Drawer 790, Glenwood Springs, CO 81602; 970 -945-6546. Applicants seek a finding of reasonable diligence in the development of their interests in the water storage right for Gordon Pond and t he Gordon Exchange. A map providing the general location of the Subject Water Rights are depicted on Figure 1 on file with the Water Ct. Name of Reservoir: Gordon Pond. Original Decree: 15CW3107, entered by the Dist. Ct., Water Div. 5 on 03/04/2017. Legal Description : Located in the SE1/4 SW1/4 of Sec. 21, T. 11 S., R. 88 W., 6 P.M. 909 ft. from the S. Sec. line and 1,771 ft. from the W. Sec. line. Source: Crystal River, tributary to the Roaring Fork River, tributary to the CO River. Gordon Pond is filled from a surface diversion and from surface runoff, surface springs and seeps. Name of Ditch: Gordon Pump and Pipeline with a capacity of 0.5 c.f.s. Legal D escription of Point of Diversion: Located in the SE1/4 SW1/4 of Sec. 21, T. 11 S., R. 88 W., 6 P.M. 1,082 ft. from the S. Sec. lin e and 1,905 ft. from the W. Sec. line. Date of Approp.: 08/17/2015. Amt. Claimed: Right to Fill and Refill in Priority Amt.: 6.5 AF. Rate of Diversion to Fill the Gordon Pond: 0.5 c.f.s. Surface area: 0.54 acre. Height of Dam: less than ten ft., the pond will be partially excavated. Uses: Rec., piscatorial, fire protection and incidental aesthetic uses within the storage structure. Remarks: The Gordon Pond opera tes as a flow-through pond, receiving freshening flows from the Gordon Pump and Pipeline at a rate not to exceed 0.5 c.f.s. throughout the year pursuant to the plan for aug. decreed in 15CW3107. Gordon Pond will be constructed with a staff gauge and low -level outlet to allow for releases to be made consistent with the plan for aug. decreed in 15CW3107. In addition, Gordon Pond will be constructed in a manner that it will not intercept groundwater. In the event ground water is exposed, Gordon Pond will be backfilled so as not to exp ose ground water until such time as: 1) a well permit has been obtained for the ground water pond pursuant to CRS §37 -90-137 and any associated water storage rights have been vacated; or 2) Gordon Pond is lined in accordance with the State Engineer’s guidelines dated A ugust 1999. Name of Exchange: Gordon Exchange. Legal Description of Exchange Reach: Upstream Terminus: Point of Depletion on Crystal River from Gordon Pond, Gunnison Cty., SE1/4 SW1/4 of Sec. 21, T. 11 S., R. 88 W., 6 P.M. 648 ft. from the S. Sec. line and 2,550 ft. from the W. Sec. line. Downstream Terminus: Varies depending upon source of aug. supply: For releases from Wolford Mountain Reservoir, the confluence of the CO River and the Roaring Fork River. For releases from Ruedi Reservoir, the confluence of th e Roaring Fork River and Fryingpan River. Amt.: 0.013 c.f.s., conditional, not to exceed 1.1 AF per year. Uses: Filling and refilling the Gordon Pond for rec., piscatorial, fire protection and incidental aesthetic uses within the storage structure. Date of Approp.: 08/1 7/2015. Remarks: CWCB holds the following instream flow rights:
The exchange decreed herein shall only operate in priority and shall only operate at times and to the extent that all instrea m flows described above and located within the pertinent exchange stream reaches are satisfied. Applicants will not operate this exchange or fill Gordon Pond when the Sweet Jessup canal is diverting water and there is less than 75 c.f.s measured at the USGS stream gauge “09081600 Crystal River AB Avalanche C, Near Redstone, CO” in the Hydrologic Unit 14010004 Roaring Fork. In the six years preceding the filing of the Application, Applicants have diligently pursued development of the subject water rights. The application on file with the Ct. contains a detailed outline of the work performed during the diligence period. Owner of Land Upon Which the Structures are all Located: Applicants. (5 pages of original application, Figures 1 -3)
YOU ARE HEREBY NOTIFIED THAT YOU HAVE until the last day of MAY 2023 to file with the Water Clerk a verified Statement of Opposition setting forth facts as to why this application should not be granted or why it should be granted in part or on certain conditions. A copy of such statement of opposition must also be served upon the applicant or the applicant’s attorney and an affidavit or certificate of such service shall be filed with the Water Clerk, as prescribed by Rule 5, CRCP. (Filing Fee: $192.00) KATHY POWERS, Water Clerk, Water Division 5; 109 8th Street, Suite 104 Glenwood Springs, CO 81601.
Gunnison Country Times Gunnison, Colorado.
Publication date of April 13, 2023 8605
SPECTRUM IS HIRING FIELD AND MAINTENANCE TECHNICIANS IN GUNNISON: As a field technician you will resolve cable and internet issues, and install Spectrum’s high-performing cable, TV, internet, and Voice products throughout your community. As you drive from location to location, you will build relationships with a diverse base of customers and deliver technical solutions. This is a career that grows with you, and the knowledge you gain will take you far.
Job Perks: Receive a company vehicle, tools, professional uniform, and personal protective equipment to do your best and stay safe
Dynamic Growth: Progress through a defined career path, or move into roles like supervisor, manager, or director
Competitive Pay: Generous starting salary, plus pay increases as you advance
Paid Training:
If you’re looking for a hands-on career opportunity that allows you to work face-toface with the people directly impacted by your work, consider joining our team. For the complete job description, visit us at jobs. spectrum.com Field Technician – Gunnison, CO.
ELEVEN EXPERIENCE is seeking licensed
massage therapists for our Colorado properties. Qualified applicants will possess current Colorado licensure and relevant experience to provide high-end massage and body treatments; yoga teacher certification is a plus. The ideal candidate has strong communication skills, pays attention to detail, the ability to uphold a premium standard of service and guest interaction, and assists in promoting a supportive and cooperative team environment. This is a seasonal position for Summer 2023, starts May 15th, and is based in the Gunnison ValleyPlease submit a cover letter and resume to jobs@elevenexperience. com.
WILDER ON THE TAYLOR is hiring for the summer season. Join our small crew of dedicated employees and work at a beautiful property on the middle Taylor River. Seeking hard working individuals for help mowing lawns, clearing trails and other landscaping/ ranch duties. Experience not required. $20/hr, 40 hrs/wk. Must have reliable transportation. Tank of gas provided after 40 hours worked each week. Season is May 15-Nov. 1. Bonus for working until end of season. Contact Mark at 708-336-1203 for more info.
THE CLUB AT CRESTED BUTTE is hiring an F&B event coordinator/admin assistant. This is a full-time year-round position with medical, retirement and vacation benefits. Salary range is $60,000-$65,000/year. For more information or to submit a resume, please email jobs@clubatcrestedbutte.com.
HIRING CASHIERS AND COOKS: Full and part time pay based on experience. But expect $22+ after tips. Drop resumes at Powerstop.
LITTLE RED SCHOOLHOUSE is seeking a part-time aide for the summer and beyond to work M-F 8-1:30 (or any combo of days) with opportunities for afternoon subbing. This is a great opportunity to enter the field of early childhood education and get to spend your days with amazing little people. Pay starting at $19/hr with tons of room for paid education, raises, benefits and much more. This has potential to be a stable year round full time job, which is hard to come by in this valley. Please inquire with Jessica at lilredschoolhouse1@gmail.com.
THE CLUB AT CRESTED BUTTE is hiring the following part-time and full-time seasonal positions: Housekeeping flexible schedule available, $20-$25/hr.; Greens maintenance, $20-$23/hr.; Swim Instructors for both private and small groups, must be CPR/First Aid certified, starting pay $25/ hr.; Front desk attendants, $16-$18/hr.; General maintenance $18-$20/hr.; Servers, bartenders, and hosts $15/hr. + Gratuity; Line cooks and dishwasher $20-$25/hr. + Gratuity; market attendants $15/hr. + Gratuity; market manager $22-$25/hr. + Gratuity; Golf shop attendants, $18-$20/hr.; Cart barn attendant $18-20/hr. Employee benefits include complimentary golf rounds and employee discounts. For more information or to submit a resume, please email jobs@ clubatcrestedbutte.com.
ELEVEN EXPERIENCE is seeking hospitality and culinary/chef professionals for our Colorado properties, Scarp Ridge Lodge and Taylor River Lodge. Based in Crested Butte, we are a global adventure travel company that provides unparalleled experiences for our guests as well as an exciting work culture for staff. We currently have openings on both the culinary team and lodge staff team. Full-time, part-time, seasonal and year-round positions available. Applicants must be dedicated team players who thrive in a fast-paced work environment, have strong communication skills and are eager to contribute to a growing company. Pay starting at $20/hour or more based on experience. Benefits include a generous tip pool, end of season ski pass bonus and retail discounts. Housing options available for the 2023 summer season. For more information on current openings and to apply, please visit elevenexperience.com/ careers/. ** $500 sign-on bonus will be given to lodge staff positions that come on board for the summer season**
TODDLER PROGRAM TEAM MEMBERS:
Tenderfoot Child and Family Development Center is seeking early childhood qualified teachers to work with children aged 1-3 years old. Positions include both a Toddler Program Supervisor ($45,614/annually) and/or a part-time ($19.16/hr) or full-time ($21.16/hr) Toddler Lead Teacher. Our new toddler team will be offered consistent administrative and external support to transition the program to new leadership while maintaining quality programming for children and families. Benefits include paid time off, child care and continuing education. Email tfootdirector@gmail.com or call 970642-1949 for more information. EOE
THE TOWN OF MT CRESTED BUTTE IS HIRING FOR A FULL-TIME YEAR-ROUND PLANNER II POSITION: The position of Planner II requires professional planning work in planning tasks associated with various aspects of the Town’s Community Development Department, such as processing advanced land use applications, maintaining and creating maps and other planning related graphical information, informing the public of planning regulations and procedures, conducting research and analysis for a variety of planning activities, and drafting town code amendments and regulations.
Qualifications:
-Bachelor ’s degree in economic development, urban planning, marketing, business administration, public administration, real estate finance, or related field and three (3) years related experience.
-An equivalent combination of formal education and related work experience, which produces the knowledge, skill and ability required to perform the essential duties and responsibilities of this position.
-Preferred applicants will have experience in rural resort communities.
-Preferred applicants will have experience with Geographical Information Systems (GIS) platforms, including but not limited to ArcGis or ArcGis Pro.
-AICP certification preferred, or ability to obtain certification within one year of start date.
Starting salary range is $62,015 to $84,754, depending on qualifications and experience. Housing is available if needed. The town offers an amazing benefits package, including paid health, vision and dental insurance for you and your dependents, paid life insurance and long term disability insurance, 13 paid holidays a year, vacation time, sick time, and 401(a) retirement account. Applicant must have a seven year clean driving record. Applications will be accepted until a qualified pool of candidates is established, but preference will be given to applicants who apply before April 15, 2023. For the full job description please go to mtcb. colorado.gov. If you have any questions, please email or call Neal Starkebaum at nstarkebaum@mtcb.colorado.gov or 970349-6632 ext 117. To apply please email your cover letter, resume and three (3) professional references to Tiffany O’Connell at toconnell@mtcb.colorado.gov.
TSA IS HIRING TRANSPORTATION
SECURITY OFFICERS AT GUNNISONCRESTED BUTTE REGIONAL AIRPORT. These full- and part-time positions start at $21.17 per hour and include excellent federal medical, dental and retirement benefits, as well as other programs for you and for your family. Also included is paid on-the-job training, weekend and holiday pay and even a potential pay raise after just six months.
Learn how to start a rewarding new career at TSA’s Job Fair on Tuesday April 25, from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. at Colorado Workforce Center, 109 E Georgia Ave. in Gunnison. Get details at jobs.tsa.gov/Events. If you have ever considered federal employment, this is a perfect time to make your move. You’ll enjoy job stability, rapid advancement, and longterm career possibilities. U.S. Citizenship required.
LIQUIDATION SALE PERSONAL
PROPERTY OF ANTHONY ROBBINS: 1986 Skyland 14x60 mobile home, 1999
Gulf Stream 32’ RV, 1992 Jeep, 1987 boat and trailer, 1976 Dodge SIG RV, 1978 shed on wheels, 1995 Shed on wheels. All listed transaction deadline May 31. As is offers all considered. Drive by 329 Reed St, Gunnison. Call for showing 970-209-8880.
REAL ESTATE
OFFICE BUILDING FOR RENT: Available immediately at 210 W. Spencer. 3600 sq. ft. 8 individual offices, conference room, breakroom with microwave and refrigerator, copy room and separate manager’s office. 12 parking spaces, 1 handicapped. Rent and utilities negotiable depending upon length of lease. Snow removal and lawn care included. Contact Dan at 970-922-9910.
Work Session Agenda April 24, 2023
Crested Butte Community School Library 5:30 pm
This meeting will be conducted in person and by distance using the video conferencing platform ZOOM. Please check the GWSD website for further instructions.
Work Session discussion item:
1. Restorative Practices presentation Kari Commerford-Director of Juvenile Services Luke Yoder-Director of Center for Restorative Programs GWSD Assistant Principals Gunnison Country Times Gunnison, Colorado.
Publication date of April 20, 2023
8688
NOTICE OF CANCELLATION OF ELECTIONS and CERTIFIED STATEMENT OF RESULTS
gunnison rising METROPOLITAN
DISTRICT nos. 1-7
NOTICE IS HEREBY GIVEN, pursuant to §1-13.5-513(6), C.R.S., that, at the close of business on May 2, 2023, there were not more candidates than offices to be filled, including candidates filing affidavits of intent to be write-in candidates, for each of the Gunnison Rising Metropolitan District Nos. 1-7 (collectively, the “Districts”). Therefore, the elections for the Districts to be held on May 2, 2023 are hereby cancelled.
The following candidates for each of the Districts are declared elected by acclamation:
L. Richard Bratton Until May, 2027
Byron R. Chrisman Until May, 2027
The following offices remain vacant:
VACANT Until May, 2025
VACANT Until May, 2027
/s/ Ashley B. Frisbie
Designated Election Official
Contact Person for the Districts:
Blair M. Dickhoner, Esq.
White Bear Ankele Tanaka & Waldron 2154 E. Commons Avenue, Suite 2000 Centennial, Colorado 80122 (303) 858-1800
Gunnison Country Times Gunnison, Colorado.
Publication date of April 20, 2023
8621
PUBLIC NOTICE OF PETITION FOR CHANGE OF NAME
Public Notice is given on APRIL 10, 2023 that a Petition for a Change of Name of an Adult has been filed with the Gunnison County, Colorado Court.
The Petition requests that the name of ELIZABETH NADINE MENSE be changed to ELIZABETH NADINE ANDERSON
Joy Case Clerk of Court/Deputy Clerk /s/ Joy Case
Gunnison Country Times
Gunnison, Colorado
Publication dates of April 13, 20 and 27, 2023
8590
NOTICE TO CREDITORS
Marilyn J. Katheiser, Deceased
Case Number 2023PR30013
All persons having claims against the abovenamed estate are required to present them to the Personal Representative or to the District Court of Gunnison County, Colorado on or before September 4, 2023, or the claims may be forever barred.
James Greg Katheiser
Personal Representative
c/o Kathleen L. Fogo, P.C.
Attorney for Personal Representative P.O. Box 7200, Gunnison, CO 81230
Gunnison Country Times
Gunnison, Colorado.
Publication dates of April 20, 27 and May 4, 2023
8676
PUBLIC NOTICE
Colorado law requires the county assessor to hear objections to real property classification and valuation beginning May 1, 2023. Objections to real property valuations must be emailed, postmarked or delivered in person no later than June 8, 2023.
The Assessor’s front counter is open between 9am and 4pm during the appeal period.
Colorado law requires the county assessor to begin hearing objections to personal property valuations no later than June 15, 2023. Objections to personal property valuations must be emailed, postmarked, or delivered in person no later than June 30, 2023.
In 2023, the Assessor and Board of County Commissioners have elected to use the extended appeal period in accordance with §39-5-122.7, C.R.S. The Assessor will mail Notices of Determination to those who have appealed on or before August 15, 2023. The County Board of Equalization will convene September 15 - October 31, 2023.
Contact the Gunnison County Assessor’s office for more information.
Gunnison County Assessor 221 N. Wisconsin St., Suite A Gunnison, CO 81230 (970) 641-1085 assessor@gunnisoncounty.org www.gunnisoncounty.org
Gunnison Country Times
Gunnison, Colorado
Publication dates of April 20, 27, 2023
8425
COUNTY OF SAGUACHE, COLORADO
REQUEST FOR STATEMENTS of INTEREST
PROJECT 25304 Saguache CO/Crestone
Ph2 MMOF
April 6, 2023
I. General Information:
The COUNTY OF SAGUACHE, COLORADO, hereinafter referred to as the Local Agency, is seeking Statements of Interest (SOIs) from consultant engineering firms for (a) Preliminary and Final Design and Engineering Services; and (b) should the project proceed, and as determined exclusively at the County’s discretion, Construction Management and Testing Services for a Project funded through the Colorado Department of Transportation (CDOT) with federal American Rescue Plan Act of 2021 (ARPA) Multimodal Transportation and Mitigation Options Funds (MMOF).
The Local Agency is soliciting SOIs from a minimum of three (3) firms with audited and approved indirect costs and rates to establish a Contract per C.R.S. 24-30-1401, C.R.S. 24-30-1403, C.R.S. 24-30-1404, C.R.S. 2430-1405 et seq.
This project will be designed and constructed to meet Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA) and Public Right of Way Accessibility Guidelines (PROWAG) requirements, as well as any other applicable standards, including CDOT design, construction standards, policies, and clearance requirements.
The Local Agency will evaluate and rank each proposal received using the criteria set forth herein and will select what it determines to be the most qualified firm to complete the work. If contract terms cannot be agreed upon between the selected firm and the Local Agency, the Local Agency may then select the next most qualified firm or may contact and solicit proposals from other firms. The Local Agency reserves the right to reject any and all proposals, to waive any and all formalities, to negotiate contract terms with the selected firm, and to disregard all nonconforming, non-responsive or conditional proposals.
II. Scope of Work:
The Local Agency is seeking a consultant engineering firm to provide all labor and provisions necessary to (a) complete the Preliminary and Final Design and Engineering; and (b) should the project proceed, and as determined exclusively at the County’s discretion, perform the Construction Management and Testing Services for the project:
Project: The project is identified by CDOT as 25304 Saguache CO/Crestone Ph2 MMOF. Saguache County is the recipient of this MMOF award to enable students to walk, bike, and walk-with-a-parent, to the Crestone Charter School from the adjoining Baca Grande Subdivision.
• This Phase 2 Project includes a segment of approximately 0.75 miles (see Figure 1 below and Section VIII. ATTACHMENTS
- File: “CDOT 25304 Saguache CO/ Crestone Ph2 MMOF”) that will commence at the northeast corner of the intersection of Camino Baca Grande and Baca Grant Way, and extend along the east side of the Saguache County Camino Baca Grande Right of Way (ROW), on a separated pedestrian/bicycle pathway; terminating at the northeast corner of the intersection of Camino Baca Grande and Palomino Way. The completed project will lie entirely within the Local Agency Right of Way (ROW).
Although not anticipated, any ROW acquisitions which may be required for this project must be acquired in compliance with CDOT procedures (as stated in CDOT’s Right of Way and Local Public Agency Manuals), state statutes, and federal regulations (e.g. the Uniform Relocation Assistance and Real Property Acquisition Policies Act of 1970, A.K.A. the Uniform Act).
All Permanent Easement (PE) acquisitions must be negotiated by ROW professionals or consultants that have been pre-approved by CDOT. If ROW acquisitions are necessary, it will be added to the scope of work with a change order.
The project will consist of construction of a 10’ wide shared use path, drainage improvements, and ADA ramps. Some of the challenges include traffic control, terrain and existing drainageways, limited material supply around Crestone CO, limiting ROW constraints, and the tight tolerances of ADA construction. The general duties required by the consultant selected are outlined below.
1. Preliminary Design and Final Engineering
The project will require preliminary and final engineering design including, but not limited to, the following:
a) Project Scoping with meeting on site
b) Site surveying and analysis
c) Geotechnical analysis
d) Drainage Analysis and Design
e) Cross sections
f) Right of Way clearance
g) Utilities clearance
h) Environmental, Historical, Cultural clearances
i) Construction plans that meet CDOT requirements for federally funded projects
j) Detailed and itemized cost estimates
k) Field Inspection Review (FIR) Plans (30% complete) with full day meeting in the Local Agency
l) Final Office Review (FOR) Plans and specifications (90% complete) with full day meeting at location to be determined
m) Advertisement Plans and Specifications
n) Pre-bid meeting and responding to bidder questions and inquiries.
o) Bid review, tabulation, and recommendation of low bidder.
2. Construction Management and Testing Services
Should the project proceed to construction, and as determined exclusively at the County’s discretion, the selected consultant may be asked to provide Construction Management and Testing Services. This would be accomplished with a new contract. Potential tasks including, but not limited to, the following:
a) Project Preconstruction Meeting in person, location TBD
b) Ensuring the work is completed in conformance with the project contract documents
c) Construction Observation Services, including but not limited to:
i. Minimum weekly site visits and for all major construction activities
ii. Issuing field reports
iii. Issue resolution during construction between the Contractor, the County, and CDOT
iv. Change Order writing and receiving approval from the County and CDOT v. Overseeing compliance with the stormwater management plan (SWMP).
Attend Monthly SWMP Audit Inspections with CDOT and Contractor.
vi. Understanding decisions affecting public safety ensuring the contractor maintains a safe work zone
vii. Monitoring compliance with Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA), Architectural Barriers Act (ABA) and CDOT Public Rightof-Way Accessibility Guidelines (PROWAG). Measuring the slopes and grades of shared use path, sidewalk, and curb ramps to ensure these requirements are met.
viii. Identifying and rejecting work that does not meet contract requirements.
ix. Verifying pay quantities using the CDOT Form 266 and reviewing and approving Contractor pay requests
x. Performing project acceptance walk through and evaluating project closeout. Preparing Certificate of Final Completion and appended punch list.
xi. Compile and submit Project Final
Documentation Package to CDOT for review and acceptance
d) Project Owner Acceptance (OA) Material Testing, including but not limited to:
i. Perform all OA testing per the OA
Frequency Schedule Guide in the
CDOT FMM
ii. Notify Contractor and construction management team of passing and failing test results.
iii. Document and compile all material testing
iv. Perform Independent Assurance Testing per the CDOT Form 379
v. Collect, review, and file all Certificates of Compliance (COC) and Certified Test Reports (CTR) for all materials permanently incorporated in the project.
vi. Compile and submit Project Final Documentation Package to CDOT for review and acceptance
3. Federal guidelines. The selected Consultant should understand the federal reimbursement guidelines including that all work may be audited by CDOT and/or the federal government and that all invoiced payments by the Local Agency must be tracked through the Consultant’s accounting department and fully documented until ‘proof of deposit’ with the Consultant and each individual’s bank account so that the Local Agency may be fully reimbursed by CDOT. Invoices for services performed (including work by sub consultants) must meet the requirements of CDOT’s procedures for consultant billing.
4. Environmental and Historical Requirements. The Consultant will be responsible for preparing documents in accordance with requirements of the current federal and state environmental and historical regulations including the National Environmental Policy Act of 1969 (NEPA).
The project will likely qualify for Categorical Exclusion for NEPA documentation. The Consultant will present documents to the Local Agency and CDOT for review. In some cases, the documents will be submitted to the appropriate state or federal agency for clearances as applicable.
The contracted firm must comply with all applicable federal statutes, regulations, and Executive Orders, including the American Rescue Plan Act, and any interpretive guidance by other responsible parties relating to these funds. The contracted firm shall also ensure that its subcontractors and vendors do the same.
III. Schedule
The following chart represents the schedule for this SOI. Any change in the scheduled dates for the Proposal Submission Deadline will be transmitted in the form of an addendum to this request. The schedule for the evaluation process and other future dates may be adjusted without notice.
Upon issuance of the Notice to Proceed by CDOT, the Consultant will be responsible
for meeting the estimated timeframes for Work Tasks listed below. These projections apply to Consultant services only, and do not include periods required by CDOT for reviews and approvals. These timeframes shall be a condition of the contract, and requests for changes in this Schedule must be submitted in writing and approved by
This information should be included for all members of the team. This information should include project name, owner, size, completion date, estimated budget, actual project cost and summary of work performed on the project.
c. Provide a narrative description to show the respondent’s familiarity with CDOT design requirements and specifications.
d. Provide a narrative description demonstrating the respondent’s familiarity and experience with CDOT funded projects.
e. Provide a statement concerning any pending litigation for the respondent’s team members concerning projects within the last 5 years.
3. PROJECT APPROACH AND PLAN
a. Describe the respondent firm’s understanding of the project and its approach to comprehensively address all (a) design and engineering requirements; and (b) all construction management and testing requirements.
b. Describe the staffing plan and devotion to the project by the consulting firms.
4. REFERENCES
$1,000,000 per occurrence; $2,000,000 aggregate.
▪ Protected Information - Liability insurance covering all loss of State Confidential Information, such as PU, PHI, PCI, Tax Information, and CJI, and claims based on alleged violations of privacy rights through improper use or disclosure of protected information with minimum limits as follows:
a. $1,000,000 each occurrence; and b. $2,000,000 general aggregate.
▪ Professional Liability — Maintain professional errors and omissions liability insurance in the amounts of $1,000,000 per occurrence; $2,000,000 aggregate.
▪ Crime insurance including employee dishonesty coverage with minimum limits as follows: a. $1,000,000 each occurrence; and
b. $1,000,000 general aggregate.
▪ Additional Insured - The State shall be named as additional insured on all commercial general liability policies (leases and construction contracts require additional insured coverage for completed operations) required of Local Agency and Subcontractors. In the event of cancellation of any commercial general liability policy, the carrier shall provide at least 10 days’ prior written notice to CDOT.
IV. Proposal Requirements: Proposals should be formatted to correspond exactly to the following information requirements. Clear and concise responses are appreciated. The total page limit is 20 pages, single sided (8.5x11).
1. PROJECT TEAM EXPERIENCE
a. Identify (a) the proposed design/ engineering team and (b) the construction management and testing team, including the project engineers/inspectors, material testers and any subconsultants.
b. Present a brief description of the respondent’s qualifications and experience working with the proposed team and subconsultants on similar projects.
2. FIRM CAPABILITIES/ PAST PERFORMANCE/ EXPERIENCE
a. Confirm the respondent’s firm has audited and approved indirect cost rates or can obtain the same prior to contract execution per the schedule above. Please do not include rate sheets or cost estimates for consultant work at this time. The evaluation will be determined on a qualifications-based process only. Firms that include rate or cost information will be disqualified from consideration.
b. List five (5) similar projects by respondent’s firm, which have been completed within the past (five) 5 years with other municipalities on state or federally funded design and engineering and construction projects.
909 N Wisconsin St. (behind Powerstop) • 970-641-2144
Two services at 9 & 10:30 am gunnisonbethany.com
9 am: Family Service with nursery & children’s church 10:30 am: Western Student Service with FREE lunch for college students following Check out our website for updates! Or download our app on the App Store by searching, Gunnison Bethany.
B'nai Butte Congregation
PO Box 2537 Crested, Butte CO 81224
305-803-3648
Thursday, April 6, 5:30 PM, Second night Community Passover Seder potluck.@ Fred Field Center in Gunnison 298-278 S Spruce St, Gunnison.
Friday, April 7 ,7:15PM, Friday Shabbat Service, Oneg & Desert to follow @ The Elfenbeins home, 149 Zeligman, CB South.
Saturday, April 8,10:30AM, Coffee and Schmooze with Rabbi Mark Kula @ T-Bar Tea
House 229 Elk Ave, Crested Butte. 5PM, Nordic/snowshoe followed by Havdallah. Meet at the Gronk parking lot.
Sunday, April 9 ,11AM, Torah Study hosted by Amy & Roger Rolfe at their home @ 42 Sydney Court, Gunnison
Church of Christ
600 E. Virginia • 970-641-1588
Sunday Morning Bible Class: 9:30 a.m.
Sunday Morning Worship: 10:30 a.m.
Sunday Evening Worship: 6 p.m.
Wednesday Night Bible Class: 7 p.m.
a. Provide three (3) client references for whom the respondent’s firm has performed similar work from the project list in Section 2a. Include project name, total project cost, owner, and contact information. If the original contact is not available, please provide an alternate contact that had direct involvement with the project.
5. GENERAL CONDITIONS:
a. Contract terms The Local Agency anticipates the design and engineering work will be initiated as enumerated in III.1. Estimated Schedule of Activities
– Preliminary and Final Design and Engineering
The Local Agency will require that the selected firm shall maintain general liability, automobile, workers’ compensations, and errors and omissions insurance. Certificates of insurance will be required at the time of contract signing following selection to serve as the Design and Engineering Consultant(s). Confirm that your firm meets the following insurance requirements:
▪ Worker’s Compensation — Meet the minimum requirements of Colorado’s Labor & Employment criteria for worker’s compensation insurance.
▪ General Liability — Maintain general business liability insurance in the amounts of $1,000,000 per occurrence; $2,000,000 aggregate.
▪ Automobile Liability - Maintain automobile liability insurance in the amounts of
V. Selection Process and Criteria:
Respondents will be evaluated not only on their past experience for the type of work involved, but also on their ability to successfully complete the project. The Local Agency shall review all proposals for quality and thoroughness. The final consultant selection will be determined solely by the information provided in the respondent’s Statement of Interest.
Selection will be based on the following evaluation factors:
• Qualifications
• Approach to work
• Ability to furnish professional services
• Anticipated design concept
• Ability of their personnel
• Demonstrating that Firm can meet the DBE goal
• Past performance
• Willingness to meet time and budget requirements
• Location
• Current and projected work load, and
• Volume of previously awarded projects
The Local Agency reserves the right to withdraw this invitation at any time without prior notice and to reject any and all proposals without cause or reason. All responses shall be treated confidentially but will become property of the Local Agency and will be retained or disposed of accordingly.
Community Church of Gunnison
107 N. Iowa • 970-641- 0925
Pastor Larry Nelson
Sunday Morning Worship 9:30 a.m.
Nursery & Age-Graded Ministry
Weekly Student Ministry
Weekly Adult LifeGroups
Office Hours: Mon-Thurs, 9:00-4:00
For more info: ccgunnison.com or email info@ccgunnison.com
Join us in-person, listen to our broadcast on 98.3 FM, or view online stream on YouTube
Transforming Lives • Building Community
First Baptist Church
120 N. Pine St. • 970-641-2240
Pastor Jonathan Jones
9:30 A.M. Share & Prayer Fellowship
10 A.M. Sunday School Classes
11 A.M. Morning Worship Service
6 P.M. Evening Service
Wednesday 7 PM - Children's Patch Club
Gunnison Bible Institute
Thursday 7 PM - College & Career Christian Fellowship www.firstbaptistgunnison.org.
THE Good Samaritan Episcopal Church
307 W. Virginia Ave. • 970-641-0429
Rev. Laura Osborne, Vicar
Sunday Morning Holy Eucharist, Rite II 9 a.m.
Children's Sunday school 9 a.m. - 9:40 a.m.
Office Hours: M-Th 9 a.m. - 4 p.m. www.goodsamaritangunnison.com
Visit our partnership church: All Saints in the Mountains, Crested Butte Holy Eucharist, Rite II, Sunday 5 p.m. Union Congregational Church, 407 Maroon Ave., Crested Butte.
Gunnison Congregational Church
United Church of Christ
317 N. Main St. • 970-641-3203
Open and Affirming Whole Earth · Just Peace
Sunday, 10:00 a.m. Casual, Relaxed, “Come As You Are” Worship www.gunnisonucc.org
Grace Covenant Church Gunnison
101 N. 8th St. Gunnison
Meeting at the Historic 8th St School House
Reformed, Confessional & committed to Expository preaching Sundays 10:00 a.m. Thursdays 1:00 p.m.
Women's Bible Study gracegunnison.com
Mt. Calvary Lutheran Church
711 N. Main • 970-641-1860
Bible Study and Sunday School at 9:00 a.m. on Sundays
Church Service at 10:00 a.m. on Sundays
Pastor Robert Carabotta, Pastor Jacob With
New Song
Christian Fellowship
77 Ute Lane • 970-641-5034
A Christ Centered Gospel Sharing Community
Sunday 10am / Wednesday 7pm www.newsonggunnison.net
The Local Agency shall not be liable for any expenses incurred by any respondent including, but not limited to, costs and expenses incurred responding to this solicitation.
The type of compensation on this contract will be the Cost-Plus Fixed Fee / Specific Rate of Pay method of compensation.
VI. Project Inquiries
Do not contact any other Local Agency employee or department regarding this project. For questions contact the following:
Wendi Maez, Saguache County
Administrator
501 Fourth Street P.O. Box 100 Saguache, CO 81149
Email: wmaez@saguachecounty-co.gov
Phone: 719-655-2231, ext. 244
Questions must be submitted in writing no later than April 18, 2023
VII. Proposal
To be considered, respondents must submit a proposal addressing all of the requested information. The proposal shall be submitted via EMAIL to:
Wendi Maez, Saguache County Administrator
501 Fourth Street P.O. Box 100 Saguache, CO 81149
Email: wmaez@saguachecounty-co.gov
Phone: 719-655-2231, ext. 244
Proposals must be received no later than 4:00 p.m., May 2, 2023, to be considered. Proposals received after the deadline will not be reviewed.
VIII. Attachments
• File: “A.25304 Saguache Co Crestone Clearance Letter FINAL”
• File: “B.CDOT 25304 Saguache CO/ Crestone Ph2 MMOF”
Gunnison Country Times Gunnison, Colorado.
Publication dates of April 13, 20 and 27, 2023
8524
Rocky Mountain Christian Ministries
1040 Highway 135 (1/4 mile N. of Spencer Ave.) • 970-641-0158
Sunday Morning Worship 9:30am
Nursery and Children’s ministry through Middle School
“Remedy” Worship Nights
Small Group Ministries www.rmcmchurch.org
St. Peter’s Catholic Church
300 N. Wisconsin • 970-641-0808
Fr. Andres Ayala-Santiago
www.gunnisoncatholic.org www.crestedbuttecatholic.org or call the Parish Office.
St. Peter's - Gunnison Sat 8:30 am, 5 pm & Sun 10:30 am, 12:00 pm (Spanish) Mass
First Sunday of every month bilingual Mass at 11am
Queen of All Saints - Crested Butte, 401 Sopris Sun 8:30am Mass
St. Rose of Lima - Lake City Communion Service, Sat 4:00pm
Trinity Baptist Church
523 N. Pine St. • 970-641-1813
Senior Pastor - Joe Ricks
Sunday Service 9:30 a.m.
Adult Bible Study 8:00 AM www.trinitybaptistsgunnison.com
Don't SELL them. Tell them a great STORY.
APRIL 11
-Agency assist welfare check
-Agency assist with Emergency Medical Services medical call
-Welfare check on someone waiting in west highway 50 construction
APRIL 12
TO
PERMANENTLY DEPRIVE —
600 N. COLORADO ST.
HARASSMENT: COMMUNICATIONS —
800 N. COLORADO ST.
ACCIDENT —
400 W. DENVER AVE.
CRIMINAL TRESPASS: FIRST
DEGREE - VEHICLE —
100 W. NEW YORK AVE.
APRIL 11
DOMESTIC VIOLENCE —
W. DENVER AVE.
MUNICIPAL CODE VIOLATION —
1160 N. MAIN ST.
THEFT: INTENDS TO
PERMANENTLY DEPRIVE —
226 N. MAIN ST.
HARASSMENT:
INSULTS,TAUNTS,CHALLENGES
— 411 E. TOMICHI AVE.
APRIL 12
DISORDERLY CONDUCT -
UNREASONABLE NOISE —
1706 W. TOMICHI AVE.
INFORMATION —
ESCALANTE DR.
THEFT - UNDER $100.00
MUNICIPAL —
603 W. TOMICHI AVE.
WELFARE ASSIST —
880 N. MAIN ST.
CRIMINAL TRESPASS -
MUNICIPAL —
901 W. DENVER AVE.
CRIMINAL TRESPASS -
MUNICIPAL — 720 S. 8TH ST.
WELFARE ASSIST — S. 7TH ST.
NUISANCE CODE VIOLATION —
618 W. TOMICHI AVE.
CRIMINAL TRESPASS: FIRST
DEGREE - VEHICLE —
1010 W. VIRGINIA AVE.
THEFT: INTENDS TO
PERMANENTLY DEPRIVE —
108 N. TAYLOR ST.
APRIL 13
AGENCY ASSIST —
W. NEW YORK AVE.
WEAPONS VIOLATION - POSS/
PREVIOUS OFFENDER
ANIMAL - RUNNING AT LARGE -
MUNICIPAL — 900 N. MAIN ST.
CRIMINAL TRESPASS: SECOND
DEGREE - COMMON AREA —
800 N. COLORADO ST.
APRIL 14
WELFARE ASSIST — W. OHIO AVE.
PROPERTY - FOUND —
115 S. 14TH ST.
ACCIDENT — 911 N. MAIN ST.
ACCIDENT — 319 N. MAIN ST.
HARASSMENT: MUNICIPAL —
309 N. IOWA ST.
APRIL 16
DISORDERLY CONDUCT - COARSE OR OFFENSIVE —
806 N. COLORADO ST.
CRIMINAL TRESPASS: SECOND
DEGREE - COMMON AREA —
720 N. COLORADO ST.
DRIVING UNDER THE INFLUENCE
- DRUGS — 2674 HWY 135
-Dog at large call- owner was advised dogs do have to be on a leash in the county and after this warning will be cited if this happens again per Gunnison County Resolution 201-30
-Light pollution complaint
-Dog at large- in the middle of the highway - unable to retrieve this dog
-Welfare check on individual who had run off
-Paper service
APRIL 13
-Information report of gunshots heard
-Agency assist to the Gunnison Police Department with a trespass
-Paper service x 3
-Paper service attempt
-Assault in the second degreeunder investigation
APRIL 14
-Welfare check on a distressed person
-responded to a call of a stolen vehicle and arrested one person for driving under the influence and driving while license is canceled or suspended
-Agency assist to the Gunnison Police Department with a search warrant
-Assisted the Gunnison Police Department with a suicidal subject
-Information report regarding a statute of limitations call
-Welfare check on a distraught person
APRIL 15
-Responded to a single vehicle crash with Gunnison Fire and Rescue and Emergency -Medical services
-Questions on private property law enforcement
-Deputies responded to an ice rescue on the lake
-Information report - medical call
-Deputies took a dog to the Gunnison Valley Animal Welfare League that was found on the highway - later picked up by owner
-Welfare call regarding a probation client
-K-9 Deputy Janssen with his partner Freya visited the Gunnison County 4-H dog event at Jorgensen Park and demonstrated how you can teach dogs to detect odors - the example he demonstrated was clove oil
APRIL 16
-Deputies assisted the Gunnison Police Department with a traffic stop
-Deputies responded for a suspicious vehicle possibly casing the area for open car doors
APRIL 17
-Vin inspection
-Vin inspection
-Warning given for failure to call in a controlled burn – which became out of control
-Welfare call on a probation client
Western Colorado University hosted a Celebration of Creative Expression at Quigley Hall on Friday, April 14. Food, art and a gallery exhibition were topped off by a performance from
•Gunnison, CO 81230
Tuesday, April 25, 7:00, Quigley Hall, FREE ADMISSION.
GRAND FINALE MUST SEE EVENT GUEST COMPOSER Andrea Clearfield.
Q&A with Andrea at 7:00pm followed by the Concert
Western University Choirs featuring movements from
In 88 years of life, Charles Tutor has accomplished a great deal in the Gunnison Valley and beyond. His many eras have included a proposal to the love of his life in a 1953 Pontiac convertible, holding a 15-foot python and even living with his family in old WWII barracks.
But a full life is made richer by contributions to neighbors and community, a well-versed practice for Tutor. In a couple weeks, he will be honored by the Rotary Club of Gunnison with the Hal Yale Service Above Self Award, an acknowledgment for individuals who have spent a lifetime serving his Gunnison Valley friends and neighbors, arguably the most influential theme underpinning what the Rotary club is about.
The Rotary Club of Gunnison serves the surrounding community in a variety of ways, offering everything from student scholarships, highway cleanups, career fairs and even delivering meals to senior citizens during COVID. Every year since 2015, the club has given out the Hal Yale award to honor a community member who exemplifies its “service above self” mentality. This year, selecting Tutor was a no-brainer, said incoming Rotary President Katie Lewinger.
“That's truly the essence of Charles, he just puts everything else before himself,” she said.
The dedication of the Jorgensen Gazebo, as captured in an old Gunnison Country Times news clip. Tutor and his wife, Joan. They met while serving in the United States Navy. Tutor poses for a portrait in his home office. Rotary B2 Abby HarrisonGunnison County, the BLM, and the U.S. Forest Service will be closing roads to all motor vehicles to protect Gunnison sage-grouse during their mating season and to prevent road damage during the wet spring conditions. The cooperation of the public is required to successfully implement these road closures.
Gunnison County, the Bureau of Land Management (BLM) and the U. S. Forest Service (USFS) have temporarily closed a number of roads to all motor vehicles to protect Gunnison sage-grouse during their mating season and to prevent road damage during wet spring conditions.
These roads are closed March 15 and will reopen on May 15, 2023. The U.S. Forest Service closures in the Flat Top Mountain area north of Gunnison extends through June 15 to protect nesting Gunnison sage-grouse, and an area closure prohibiting all human uses in the Almont Triangle between Hwy 135, County Road 742, and County Road 813. These include Henkel Road and Smokey Bear access roads.
BLM roads across the basin are subject to the motorized closures except for Hartman Rocks north of the Powerline Road.
Roads and trails in the north end of Hartman’s are subject to closure based on winter and mud conditions but those will open when roads and trails dry out.
Signal Peak roads and trails on BLM lands remain closed to motorized use from January 1 to May 15 to protect wintering wildlife.
Mechanized use on Signal Peak is allowed east of the Signal Peak Rd beginning May 1 after 10 am.
There is a human use closure on Signal Peak from March 15 to May 15; affected trails include: The Ridge, Rasta Gulch, and Chicken Wing.
Copies of the closure list and maps are available at Gunnison County Public Works, 195 Basin Park Drive; Gunnison
Gunnison, Colorado.
These closures apply to all motorized vehicles. Do not park at the closures in a manner that blocks access through the closure gates. All non-motorized trail users are also requested to use Gunnison Basin roads/trails only after 9 a.m. during this period to help reduce disturbance to sage-grouse. For additional information call Gunnison County Public Works at 641-0044; BLM at 642-4940; or the U.S. Forest Service at 641-0471.
A life of service is often unhindered by age, as the joy of giving back and connecting to the community is evergreen. Tutor is still serving the valley as a music liaison at Western Colorado University’s Quigley Hall, directing concert attendees and students. The gig is perfect for Tutor, a self-described music-nut who has enjoyed all corners of the music world, from classical stylings at children’s concerts offered at the Los Angeles Philharmonic to the best of Hank Williams and Jimmy Rodgers, soaked up when his father got home from work and threw the windows open to let the notes seep into the Texas heat.
THE FOLLOWING ITEMS AND MUCH MORE WILL BE ACCEPTED: AcidsFertilizersAntifreezeFlammable LiquidsCar Batteries
But it’s not his first time on campus, as Tutor spent more than 25 years teaching industrial arts and technology at the school. While at Western, Tutor served on the Faculty Senate and in several search committees, but what he remembers most from that period of his life is the students.
“Being back on campus with students has been a godsend, because I love my students,” he said. “I love every minute at Western.”
Those who serve for a lifetime leave traces everywhere. With the support of staff and students, Tutor designed the gazebo in Jorgensen Park, to honor a colleague who had passed away. He said it was a high point in his life to work with so many students devoted to honoring a good friend.
For further information contact Gunnison County Public Works at 641-0044 or Fire Marshal Hugo Ferchau at 641-8153.
As president of the Gunnison High School Booster Club, Tutor would spend five years recording football statistics for the GHS football team, a quiet and essential task. The program to give free dictionaries to all Gunnison third graders is a relic of his time in leadership with the Rotary Club.
Meeting his wife — who worked as a certified public accountant in Gunnison — is one of the most cherished memories of his life. Tutor served in the Navy in the mid-50s, and he would travel to Pearl Harbor, Guam, Japan, Hong Kong and even the Philippines. Of all his maritime adventures, the most exciting would happen on solid ground, when he met his soonto-be wife Joan, a woman who “out ranked me and still does,” he said.
A brief Las Vegas honeymoon, a few kids and a few jobs later, the pair moved to Greeley so Tutor could attend the
University of Northern Colorado. In Greeley, Tutor served as cub and scout master to a local Boy Scout Troop. After receiving his bachelor of arts, the family later moved to Gunnison when he received a job offer from Western State College.
“I consider Gunnison God's country. Why is that? Because of the beauty of it. Because of the people. The people you get to know are what it's all about,” he said. “If you're comfortable with everyone around you, and you're comfortable where you're living, it's a wonderful experience.”
A little more than a decade later, Tutor joined the Gunnison Rotary Club, eventually serving on the Rotary Board. During his time in Rotary, Tutor organized the Gunnison fireworks show, held at the Mountaineer Bowl, a responsibility Tutor called “the most marvelous job.” Dick Bratton, the 2022 Hal Yale recipient, said Charles was the reason the event ever existed.
“We spent a lot of time putting it together. He’s a smart guy. He's well organized. He gets things done,” Bratton said. “He’s done a lot of things for the community over a long period of time.”
Tutor served as district governor for the club from 200203, and even worked alongside Hal Yale, for whom the award is named. Tutor presented the first-ever “Service Above Self” award to Hal Yale back in 2015, commemorating a man “who was always there” in his 50-year tenure. He would go on to serve at the Crested Butte Rotary and in Denver at the Highlands Ranch Rotary before returning to Gunnison Rotary in 2017.
“I just love the people, because I love working with the coaches and what have you,” Tutor said. “So to me it's been a great life. It's been a lot of fun.”
It’s the touches of community that Tutor recalls the most: former Western football coach Duke Iverson enlisting his team to help Tutor and his wife move into their house, or the students helping him design the Jorgensen gazebo. More than his own contributions, it’s the ways in which the Gunnison valley has loved him that he holds in the highest regard. For Lewinger, it’s an unsurprising story for someone so humble.
“He's the person that it doesn't matter who you are, what you look like or how much money you have, he's going to just take time with you,” she said. “I think that's a big part of Charles, is his open, non-judgmental heart.”
Button mats are apparently becoming quite popular among dog owners. If you haven’t heard of them, they consist of eight to 10 colored discs that can be snapped onto a rigid plastic mat. Each button contains a microphone that allows you to record a word or phrase up to 10 seconds long such as “treat” or “go outside.” Stickers are included that represent these words such as a picture of a dog bone, or a tree.
People can then teach their dogs to press the button (which results in the recording being played) to communicate with their owners and express what they want. If a dog wants to go outside, she would let her owner know by pressing the “go outside” button, resulting in the dog being let outside.
The use of the button is fairly straight-forward and just another example of operant conditioning, which reinforces desired behaviors and punishes unwanted ones. Dogs learn to bark at the door when they want out, or paw at us when they want a treat using the same process.
Instead of using a tree to represent “outside,” the picture could be anything (a heart, or a black dot) and the dog can still learn that by pressing that particular button. The consequence is that his owner lets him outside. Similarly, the recording could ask “go fly” and if the consequence was the dog was let outside, then that would be the meaning the dog would attach to those words.
There are two crucial points in this process. First, the dog has been actively and purposefully taught the association between a particular button and the consequence. Second, we assume the “meaning” of the words and the picture are directly tied to the consequence.
However, some pet owners are claiming their dogs are pushing multiple buttons to create unique communications and to express their own internal states. For example, an owner might record the phrase
“love you” and use a sticker in the shape of a heart. When the dog presses the button the owner responds “I love you too!” and pays attention to the dog.
Can we conclude that the dog is using the button to tell the owner he loves her? The answer is no. This is actually the same process we described previously — pushing the button results in reinforcement in the form of attention from the owner.
It's not reasonable to conclude that the dog has learned that the shape of a heart and the sounds “I love you” are visual and auditory representations of whatever emotion he may feel for his owner. That’s just a bridge too far given that there is a far simpler explanation for the dog choosing to push that particular button.
However, that simpler explanation doesn’t preclude the existence of the emotional attachments dogs likely have for their owners, or that it may be possible to demonstrate in the future that certain dogs can learn to use the buttons in ways that weren’t precisely taught.
In fact, a new study at the University of California San Diego has been designed to investigate that and other possibilities. Through the use of videos and questionnaires, the scientists’ goal is to learn more about the cognitive abilities of dogs and whether certain breeds or certain temperament traits are associated with higher cognitive functioning than others.
The researchers are still enrolling dog subjects. To learn more or enroll your dog go to cclab.ucsd.edu/studies-forpets/.
Suzanne Hetts and Daniel Estep Special to the Times
The Gunnison Arts Center hosted a Time Travel Dance Party on Saturday night, April 15. Partygoers attended the event decked out in costumes inspired by all decades, from the distant past to far into the future. Peach Street Revival and DJ Schlitz provided the tunes and the party culminated in a costume award ceremony and raffle.
Letter carriers’ food drive
On May 13, put a non-perishable food donation in a bag by your mailbox. Carriers will deliver it to a local food bank.
Western’s Program Council will be hosting SpringFest and celebrating Earth Day on April 22. Gangstagrass, a bluegrass/ hip-hop group, will be headlining along with Tatanka Dub & DJ Kamakani. Festivities will be hosted at the Quigley Bandshell. Fuerza Cora Brasil and Second Hand String Band will be playing at the Earth Day BBQ for a full day of live music.
Develop your skills when shopping for and cooking healthy food on a budget — Wednesdays, May 17-June 21 from 11 a.m.-1 p.m. at the Gunnison County Library. The six-week course is designed for low-income adults who are seeking to improve their overall health. The course is taught in both English and Spanish. Childcare is available. For more information contact Blaise at 303.667.5691 or email blaise@mountainrootsfoodproject.org.
‘Our Town’ at Western Western Theatre Company presents "Our Town" by Thornton Wilder, April 20-21, 28-29 at 7:30 p.m. and student matinees on April 26 at 1 p.m. and April 27 at 1:15 p.m. at the Studio Theatre in Taylor Hall. Tickets are $10 for adults and $5 for students. Cash or Venmo at the door.
Students host annual luau
The Western Colorado
Celebrate Earth Day by putting more nature into your life. Choose from two styles of handbuilt planters or design your own to be the perfect new home for your plant baby. The kids’ session is $60 for non-members and $51 for members and will be held April 22 from 2-4 p.m. The adult session is $72 for non-members and $62 for members and will be held April 22 from 4:30-7 p.m.
On April 24 from 5:30-8:30 p.m. students will get introduced to
University Asian Pacific Islander Club invites you to their annual luau April 20 at 5 p.m. at the UC ballroom on the Western Colorado University campus.
Enjoy hula dancers and a full meal. Tickets at the door are $15 per person.
Get your garden going with the Gunnison Valley Producers' Guild annual plant sale on April 22 from 11 a.m.-2 p.m. at 513 S. Main St. in Gunnison. Organic and locally-grown vegetable starts, potatoes and compost will be available to purchase. Support your local farmers and get the best plant starts for your garden.
“Elemental: Reimagine Wildfire” will screen on April 26 at the Majestic Theatre at 6:30 p.m.
The film takes viewers on a journey with the top experts in the nation to better understand fire. The film includes the voices of climate experts, Indigenous people and fire survivors and asks us to reimagine our relationship with wildfire as we prepare for an increasingly hotter future.
The Gunnison Library will host a free pictorial presentation on local railroad history by Larry McDonald with the Pioneer Museum on April 27 at 6 p.m. Attendees will get a glimpse of the amazing history of Baldwin Engine 268 and discover how she became “Cinder Ella of the Rockies.”
The Gunnison Car Club is now accepting applications from Gunnison-area charitable and
nonprofit organizations for grants from the proceeds of its 2023 Gunnison Car Show. The funding application request form can be downloaded from the Gunnison Car Club’s website, gunnisoncarclub.com and emailed to Info@ gunnisoncarclub.com or mailed to Gunnison Car Club, PO Box 7102, Gunnison, CO, 81230. Applications must be received by June 9 and will be considered at the Car Club meeting to be held at 7 p.m. on June 14 at the Fred Field Center.
History enthusiasts are wanted to volunteer at the Gunnison Pioneer Museum re-opening May 15. Training is provided. Call 970.596.2226 for more information.
Gunnison Gallery needs your public vote for the Best of Show cat and dog for a $5 donation to GVAWL. This is the gallery’s 17th year hosting the fun event and we have 80 entries. Please stop by 124 N. Main St. Tuesday through Saturday to vote. Voting ends on April 27 at the A”cat”emy Awards where prizes will be given out.
LivingWorks ASIST is a face-toface workshop held May 2-3 from 9-5 p.m. at the Gunnison County Library. Learn how to prevent suicide by recognizing signs, providing a skilled intervention and developing a safety plan to keep someone alive. Attendance on both days is required and lunch is provided. Register at forms.gle/ yVKHPMnjawCucXVT8.
wheel throwing and will focus on centering, pulling and shaping their own masterpiece. Students with a range of throwing abilities are welcome. Registration fee includes clay, tools, slip, glaze, kiln firing and instruction.
The instructor is Rachel Cottingham and the cost is $72 for non-members and $62 for members.
On April 25 from 4:30-6:30 p.m. students age 13 and up will learn how to put together their own bracelet and necklace set. Students will work with natural materials such as leaves, sand and feathers to create a design
of their choice. The instructor is Chelsea Hoitt and the cost is $40 for non-members and $34 per member.
On Mondays, May 1-22 from 4-5:30 p.m., kids aged 6-12 can get dropped off or take the bus from school to arrive at the three dimensional realm of Minecraft by sculpting their own terrain, tools and characters. Please bring a snack to prepare for the journey. The instructor is Kit Wijkowski and the cost is $150 for non-members and $128 for members.
Monarch Mountain ski resort’s lifts stopped spinning for the season on Sunday, April 16, after a historic season of snowfall. Another four inches covered the slopes Friday night, providing a combination of slushy, yet soft snow on Closing Day. The mountain clocked a season high base of 80 inches on April 1, an impressive figure
considering the resort does not make its own snow. Monarch even extended its season by a week due to the excellent conditions. It would have been possible to stay open later, but crowds begin to dwindle as the weather warms at lower elevations, said Sales Manager Eva Egbird. “People just seem to lose interest in skiing,” she said.
“We were hardly breaking even for the past two weeks. We do it as a benefit to season pass hold-
ers… But last week we were sitting here with more employees than customers.” On Closing Day, the traditional 'Kayaks on Snow' race was canceled due to “liability issues,” Egbird said, but the Gunbarrel Challenge went ahead as scheduled.
Chaz Hogenauer came in first, Gunnison’s own Brian Smith came in second and Aaron Blondeau came in third, shaving almost two minutes off his time from last year.
There are four people, at least three of them Western State college students, suspected of stealing the five bikes that were recovered. Two had been questioned as of Tuesday morning. Detective Ross Bates said the bikes were being taken apart, having the serial numbers destroyed, being repainted, and then probably- being offered for resale.
The bikes were recovered from a local garage where they had been seen last week after four days of surveillance by the police, according to Bates.
The watch on the garage started Thursday and ended Monday morning when the police suspected they had been observed. The police had hoped the suspects would go to the garage. A license plate for one bike was found in a drain, Bates said.
One of the bicycles has been identified by its owner, Sue Lapinski, a Western State college student from Connecticut who lives in Ophir hall.
Bates said "a lot more bicycles are being stolen in the community than we have here," and added there are probably similar rings operating in town. Bicycle locks and chains now on the market do not protect a bicycle, since approved thieves use lock cutters to break the the open locks and can steal a bicycle in a matter of minutes.
As the world looks for ways to reduce its reliance on fossil fuels, the team that built Western Colorado University’s Paul M. Rady School of Computer Science and Engineering realized part of the solution was right under its feet.
As a result of the team's desire to do things better, two years after first opening Rady's doors, the building uses less natural gas than any other on Western’s campus. This is thanks to a system that pulls geothermal energy from an aquifer 280 feet below ground level into the building to be used for heating and cooling.
On a tour of the building's 75,000 square foot boiler room, with its state-of-the-art systems and a tangle of color-coded pipes running in every direction, Western’s Project Planner Rick Odom pointed out boilers, chillers and a van-size box that sends the water. It comes from below, pulling from more than 70 wells cycling water through the subterranean aquifer wherever it’s needed.
The complex system is designed to pull heat off the 48-to 55-degree water that comes into the room through eight large manifolds. The heat is then stored until enough accumulates to be used to heat the building’s water, as well as the solution pumped through a radiant heating system, Odom said.
Two natural gas-fired boilers are built in to take over should the geothermal energy not be sufficient to heat the building. But Odom said they turn it
on less than 10 times per year when the outside temperature is well below zero degrees Fahrenheit.
“If it’s not minus 10 degrees, this will take care of everything,” Odom said, pointing to the unit that serves as the “brains of the operation.”
With those cold days of winter in mind, part of the radiant heating system was also designed to continue under the sidewalks and ramp used to access the building to melt the ice and snow that would otherwise accumulate.
And not only does the system serve practical purposes and nearly eliminate the need for natural gas in the building, but it also provides the university’s engineering students with a hands-on laboratory that would be hard to find anywhere else.
That desire to integrate the
system into the educational opportunities available at the school is reflected in a mural on the exterior walls of the mechanical room that shows all the piping and mechanical systems. Inside, labeling on the pipes and a chart on the wall tell students what each color means.
“In the mechanical room, we have utilized the system as a learning tool for our thermodynamics courses, labeling and descriptions of the specifics of the system,” said Program Director Jeni Blacklock. “We have found the building to be a highly efficient learning system that will continue to be utilized as an educational tool in the program.”
(Source: Western Colorado University.)
Alex McCrindle Times Intern
On Thursday, April 13, the GHS Cowboys defeated the Olathe Pirates 14-8 at home. The win was followed by a doubleheader against the Centauri Falcons on Saturday, April 15, which resulted in 11-4 and 13-5 back-to-back victories for the Cowboys. Three wins in three days put the GHS record to 5-7 overall, with a 1-1 league record in the 3A Western Slope.
Head Coach Tom Percival said the seasonal opening of the Gunnison High School baseball field has played a role in the team’s improvement.
“Sleeping in your own bed at night, and playing on the fields we practice at has
made a huge difference,” he said. “For us, just practicing outside has really helped, our confidence has increased in
fielding a ground ball off grass instead of a gym floor, and hitting outside versus inside.”
The Cowboys came out
Jacob Spetzler
Photo and Sports Editor
Amidst strong winds, the GHS track and field team put together a series of top performances on Saturday, April 15, at the Del Norte Tiger Invitational.
The girls and boys squads earned multiple first-place finishes in competitive races. As a team, the girls earned second overall out of 22 schools with 103 points. The boys finished eighth with 51 points.
On the individual side, both teams put together a swath of podium performances. For the boys team, Spencer Hays and Cael Medina each earned fi rst-place spots in the 3200-meter run and the 200-meter dash, respectively. Rowen Downum took third in the 1600-meter run, and Julian Ryter finished third in the 3200-meter run. The 4x800 meter relay team, composed of Downum, Hays, Cruz Dominguez and Julian Ryter took third.
Head Coach Stacey Mickelson also highlighted solid performances from freshmen Arno Mortensen and
Gabriel Perez Rosa. The last three meets have been the first of their high school careers. Mortensen had a meet-best performance in Del Norte in the 200-meter dash, taking 12th, while Perez Rosa took 13th in the long jump.
The girls team dominated in many of the individual events. Madelyn Stice took first and second in the 1600- and 800-meter runs, respectively. Jemma Pietrie took first in the 3200 meter run and Catlina Schwab came in right behind her in second. Justine Mowery finished second in the 1600-meter run. Caroline Sudderth, Eden Williams, Sienna Gomez and Angela Hindes of the 4x100 relay team put together a second place finish.
The jumpers achieved top spots as well. Gomez finished second in the long jump and fifth in the high jump. Aubrey Welfelt took fifth in the triple jump.
“I think everyone competed well considering the wind,” Mickelson said. “They earned a lot of PRs.”
Th e Cowboys will compete again this Friday, April 21, at Coal Ridge High School.
(Jacob Spetzler can be contacted at 917.204.1990 or jacob@gunnisontimes.com.)
swinging against the Olathe Pirates on April 13. Senior Rocky Marchitelli opened the batting order with an infield
single. After stealing second, Marchitelli reached home following hits from Wade Baseball B10
from B9
Johnson, Mason Williams, and a double from junior Hunter Vincent. The Cowboys limited the Pirates offense in the first inning, setting the score 4-0 for the home team.
Senior Justus Williams led from the front with a double in the first inning and a single in the third, extending the lead to six runs for the Cowboys. In the top of the third, sophomore Grady Buckhanan made a web-gem, diving catch in right field to accentuate the Cowboys defensive performance. Jacob Riser followed with an insidethe-park home run in the bottom of the fourth to put the lead out of reach, ultimately besting Olathe, 14-8.
Two days later, on Saturday afternoon, GHS played Centauri High School in backto-back games, resulting in a 11-4 win in the morning, and a 13-5 win later that afternoon.
Percival highlighted a few key players following the three victories.
“Rocky Marchitelli has done a great job, he’s leading us in all aspects of the game. He’s hitting the ball well, playing good defense and has pitched a lot recently,” he said. “Grady Buckhanan had six hits in two games this weekend and is also playing good defense. Hunter Vincent had five hits, six RBIs, and a massive play throwing a guy out at home against Centauri this weekend.”
Despite the three wins, Percival said the team isn’t lingering on recent successes or focusing too much on the future.
“Right now our only goal is to compete on every pitch,
we’re not looking ahead of ourselves,” he said. “Every pitch is a new challenge, and we’re not worried about anything other than that.”
The team traveled to Delta on Tuesday, April 18 for an away league game but scores were unavailable by press time. The Cowboys will return home on Tuesday, April 25 to face North Fork High School in a league double header. The first game is slated for 2 p.m. at the GHS baseball field.
(Alex McCrindle can be contacted at 970.641.1414 or alex@gunnisontimes.com.)
the team with scores of 105 and 119.
Not only did this tournament provide the first competitive event for the girls, it was also the team’s first time on a golf course this year. Extended winter conditions prevented the Cowboys from practicing at Dos Rios Golf Course. Meanwhile, the girls have been confi ned to hitting wiffl e balls in classrooms, putting on carpet and training in the gymnasium.
Head Coach Kevin Mickelson said he expected a shaky start due to the lessthan-ideal practice format.
“You don’t ever expect to play well in your first tournament of the year, but this
wasn’t just our first golf tournament, it was also our first time on a golf course,” he said. “Everything we have been doing has been indoors and it showed today.”
The HillCrest Golf Course challenged the Cowboys with tree-lined fairways, elevated greens nestled between bunkers and significant water hazards. Alongside natural obstacles, the golfers struggled with swing timing and short game.
Noble and Brown finished at the top of their team with scores of 105 and 119, followed by senior Elaina Dillard, junior Allie Schwartz and sophomore Madison Vollendorf. The five Cowboys golfers finished the tournament third in the 3A division and 10th overall.
Mickelson said the competition helped him pinpoint areas for improvement, and is excit-
ed for the girls to bounce back now that Dos Rios opened its practice facilities on April 18.
“We don’t want to be playing our best golf at the beginning of the season anyway, so we’re trying to celebrate the good things that we did in our rounds, learn a little bit and go again tomorrow,” he said. “We’ve been really patient all spring, doing the best we can with what we got, and now it's all about finding our form.”
The Cowboy golfers played again on Tuesday in a tournament at the Conquistador Golf Course in Cortez. Results were not available by press time The team is scheduled to begin practicing outside at the end of the week.
(Alex McCrindle can be contacted at 970.641.1414 or alex@ gunnisontimes.com)
Removal, pruning, dead wooding and shaping of trees. Now available stump grinding! Fully Insured.
Jacob Spetzler
Photo and Sports Editor
With a dramatic 13-2 win over the Durango Demons, the Crested Butte Titans varsity lacrosse team extended its winning streak to four last Tuesday, April 11. The game puts the team’s current season record —it’s very first as a varsity program —in bonafide winning territory with 4-3 overall and 3-2 for the league. The Titans were scheduled for another home game last Thursday, April 13, against Montrose but it was canceled with plans to reschedule.
Head Coach Buck Seling said the win over Durango was the best game the team has played
this season. He attributes the strong performance to early goals and consistent face-off wins by Fraser Birnie, who held on to the ball for 13 out of 15 exchanges.
The Titans started putting up points on the board right away. Blue Gardner broke open the scoreboard just minutes into the game with an assist from Ty Pullium. Riley Davis, Jack Pierson and Luke Walton all added one point each before the end of the quarter.
The Demons scored twice in the first, their only goals of the game. Then in the second, Ace Gaither, Pierson and Brenden Hartigan all scored within two minutes of the start of the quarter.
“Those goals set the tone for the rest of the game,” Seling said.
At the half, Crested Butte led 9-2. The scoring slowed for the second two quarters but the Titans’ defense held strong, limiting the Demons’ attempt at a comeback. But it wasn’t just this game. In the past four games,
the Titans defense has let in an average of only three goals per game. Seling also pointed to the team’s strong passing.
“We distributed the ball nicely throughout the game, recording nine assists on 13 goals,” he said. “When you move the ball to open players who convert on good shots, while your defense is shutting out your opponent’s offense… Beating a team by 11 goals is very achievable.”
By the end of the competition, Gaither had racked up four goals and two assists. Hartigan scored twice and notched four assists. Pierson and Gardner each scored twice.
The Titans are off for the rest of this week for spring break. The team will next compete Tuesday, April 25, in an away game against Grand Junction.
(Jacob Spetzler can be contacted at 917.204.1990 or jacob@gunnisontimes.com.)
GAY GARNER LPCC, LMFTC
Stop by the senior resource office every Wednesday for assistance in applying for SNAP, Medicare, LEAP, Health First Colorado and other community programs.
Also introducing to the community is Mom’s Meals, a a meal delivery program that supports low income individuals 60 years and older who may struggle to buy groceries or cook. Mom’s Meals can deliver up to 10 nutritious meals every two weeks!
For more information or to sign up, contact the Senior Resource Office at 970-641-3244 or stop in between 9-12:00pm, every Wednesday
220 N SPRUCE, GUNNISON
• April 26 (12:45 p.m.): Alzheimer’s & Dementia Community Forum. Join the Alzheimer’s Association, Gunnison Senior Center and Gunnison County Health & Human Services to learn and discuss how our wonderful Gunnison Valley community can come together to improve support for our loved ones and families living with theses diseases. Professionals and all community members welcome! For more info, contact: egillis@ gunnisonco.gov or 970-641-8272.
• April 26 (RSVP Required): Colorado Center for Nursing Excellence – Virtual Dementia Tour. Designed for family members, caregivers, and concerned community members. Sign up for a safe, experiential “tour”, led by healthcare professionals that will provide a glimpse into what living with dementia feels like. (NOTE: This program is for people who are not living with cognitive impairment.) Tour times: 9:45am, 3pm, 4:45pm. RSVP required to – egillis@gunnisonco.gov or 970-641-8272.
• NEW Survey on Mental Health for Older Adults – available in English & Spanish. manner to help shape the mental health support for older adults in our Valley! Online & hard copy surveys available – contact the Senior Center for more info: 970-641-8272 or egillis@gunnisonco.gov.
SIGN UP AT THE REC CENTER FRONT DESK! NO CLASSES 4/19.April 24 & 26 in the Rec Center Gym
Silver Sneakers Boom Muscle @ 9:30am
Silver Sneakers Classic @ 10:15am
Tuesdays in the Leisure Pool
Silver Sneakers Splash @ 10:00am
a positive impact in the lives of older adults in the Gunnison Valley, please contact: 970-641-8272. Or apply online via the City of Gunnison website.
Mon., Apr. 24: Mac & Cheese & Hot Dogs, spinach, homemade rolls, salad
Weds., Apr. 26: Salisbury Steak, roasted potatoes, peas, homemade bread, salad
Fri., Apr. 28: Hamburgers, French fries, corn, Jello with fruit
Mondays, Wednesdays, & Fridays – 11:30 a.m. arrival.
Pick-ups from 11 – 11:15 a.m. $5 per meal.
Advance orders encouraged: 970-641-8272. Homemade desserts with every meal!
AT THE SENIOR CENTER 200 E. SPENCER AVE. ALL SENIOR CENTER PROGRAM INFO & RSVPS: EGILLIS@GUNNISONCO.GOV OR 970-641-8272.
Monday
• Computer Use (9 a.m.)
• Bridge (1 p.m.)
Wednesday
• Book Club (1st Wednesday)
Thursday
• Bridge (1 p.m.)
Friday
• Art Club (12:30 p.m.)
• Mahjong (1 p.m.)
Times Staff Report
Raising children is a significant responsibility. Parents know there’s no such thing as a day off, which is why the first day they come home to an empty nest can be so confounding.
After roughly two busy and likely hectic decades — or more — of looking after their children, parents whose sons or daughters have left home for the first time may experience feelings of sadness and loss. That’s not unusual, as the Mayo Clinic notes it’s a phenomenon known as “empty nest syndrome.” Though it’s not a clinical diagnosis, empty nest syndrome can be a difficult hurdle to overcome, especially for parents who find themselves suddenly bored after years of being so busy. Empty nesters looking to banish boredom can consider these strategies.
Give your home a new look. Parents go to great lengths to make their homes welcoming safe havens for their children. Moms and dads often joke that, between play rooms and study areas, kids get the bulk of the real estate under their roofs. Now that the chil-
dren have moved out, parents can take back that space and refresh their homes. A home that’s adapted for empty nesters will look quite different from one designed for families with young children. So a renovation or redesign can provide plenty of work that can fill idle time and instill a sense of excitement about the future.
Become a weekend road warrior. Newly minted empty nesters are likely still working full-time. But now that there’s no soccer practices or band recitals taking up valuable real estate on your weekend schedule, Saturdays and Sundays can provide perfect opportunities to travel. Plan routine weekend getaways, choosing different locales for each trip. Visit a city one weekend and devote a subsequent trip to the great outdoors.
Reconnect with old friends. Some individuals experiencing empty nest syndrome may be hesitant to admit they’re experiencing feelings of sadness and loneliness. But a recent study of parents of teenagers found that 47% were fretting about having an empty nest. So it’s likely that old friends and fellow parents are experiencing
feelings associated with empty nest syndrome. Reaching out to old friends is a great way to reconnect and can provide an outlet to discuss feelings parents might be hesitant to share with others. But empty nesters who experience significant feelings of sadness and loneliness are urged to speak with a health care professional as well.
Replace kids’ activities with your own. After years of toting kids from one extracurricular activity to another, empty nesters can now do the same for themselves. Visit local community centers and libraries and ask about classes for adults. Many offer classes on everything from crafts to sports. Adults also can research continuing education programs at local colleges and universities if they’re interested in a career change or pursuing an advanced degree for personal enrichment.
New empty nesters can look at their situation as an opportunity to engage in activities that pique their interests after years of catering to the needs and wants of their children.
Times Staff Report
Siblings are the first friends many children have. A close relationship with a brother or sister can lay the foundation for a happy life and provide a built-in support system that only grows and matures as siblings age.
According to a study at the Family Studies Center at Brigham Young University that examined relationships between siblings in more than 300 families, a quality relationship with a brother or sister may lead to children being more selfless. But this is only one of the many benefits of being a sibling.
Parents know that relationships between siblings are not always smooth sailing. In fact, sibling rivalry is a component of many family dynamics. Parents may find that maintaining peace in the household when siblings bicker can be challenging. Yet there are ways for parents to mitigate sibling rivalries.
Identify the causes of sibling rivalry. Before parents can get to the business of handling a sibling rivalry, they first need to understand what’s behind it. According to the Mayo Clinic, sibling rivalry tends to develop as siblings compete for their parents’ attention, respect and love. Rivalries can be affect-
ed by the age gap of children (those close in age may battle more often) and their places in the family dynamic (middle children may not feel they are getting the same share of privileges or attention as their older and younger siblings).
Children of the same sex also may be more likely to compete against one another.
Take a hands-off approach at first. Experts say that parents should first stay out of the rivalry. They should let children learn skills related to conflict resolution on their own.
Parents can refresh their children’s minds on the importance of being patient and expressing emotions in a calm
manner. Parents shouldn’t be quick to mediate as soon as an argument occurs. If things get out of control, then parents can step in and serve as neutral parties in the dispute.
Avoid labels and comparisons.It’s human to want to categorize or organize things in our lives. Children inadvertently may be given titles, such as “the jock” or “the brain” of the family. Sometimes parents do not even realize they are labeling their children, such as when lamenting that a son or daughter always makes the family late, or that one seems to be a happy helper. These seemingly harmless observations may be setting up rival-
ries, especially if one child feels he or she is getting the short end of the stick. Parents should make every attempt to avoid voicing comparisons or labeling kids.
Offer one-on-one time. Families can and should do things together, but parents also can devote special and equal one-on-one time with each child. This can foster strong relationships and help each child feel respected and loved.
Sibling rivalry is a dynamic within many families. Certain strategies can diminish the likelihood of rivalries developing or help quash disputes.
Quince emprendedores fueron escogidos para participar en el primer taller de capacitación de creación de empresas que se dicta en el condado a la comunidad hispana.
Colaboradores de la Alcaldía de Gunnison, Cámara de Comercio, Servicios Multiculturales, Proyecto de Asuntos Hispanos, Inmigrantes Unidos y Skyeler Smith, aspirante a Maestría en administración de empresas de la Western Colorado University, articularon sus conocimientos y desde cada una de sus áreas identificaron una brecha en las oportunidades de la comunidad hispana para un desarrollo económico empresarial.
¿Cómo crear oportunidades para los emprendedores?
Según Ricardo Esqueda, enlace comunitario de la comunidad de Gunnison, se identificó que los recursos disponibles en el condado no eran suficiente para que los hispanos tuvieran herramientas para la creacion de sus propias empresas.
“Desde esta necesidad, varios departamentos de trabajo nos unimos para buscar recursos que contribuyan a mejorar esta situación. Se contactó a
Rocky Mountain Micro Finance Institute, que tiene experiencia de éxito con comunidades hispanas. Logramos que los emprendedores de Gunnison puedan recibir sus talleres y asesorías para potenciar habilidades en la creación de negocios” . Afirmó Esqueda.
¿Qué es Rocky Mountain MicroFinance Institute (RMMFI)?
Según el portal web de RMMFI, el instituto brinda un apoyo integral al emprendedor para potencializar su espíritu empresarial. Un apoyo que incluye no solo el acceso al capital, sino también la educación.
Stephen Ruddell, site activation manager en RMMFI, ha encontrado una gran recepción en la comunidad de Gunnison.
“La mayoría de los emprend-
edores han elegido asistir de forma presencial a los talleres, esto demuestra su interés en aprender y su compromiso con la creación de sus empresas”. Comentó Ruddell.
“Me sorprende como entre ellos han creado una red de apoyo en la que debaten sobre temas de interés y plantean opciones de trabajo en comunidad” . Stephen Ruddell, también señaló que en su experiencia es la primera vez que encuentra una verdadera unión entre instituciones que apoyen a la comunidad hispana.
¿En qué consiste el taller?
El programa tiene 3 etapas. La primera de ellas es el laboratorio de ideas en donde por un periodo de 4 semanas los participantes aprenden a diseñar una idea de negocios. Durante
la segunda fase, los emprendedores lograrán crear y ejecutar un plan de acción para el éxito de su empresa. Finalmente, en la última etapa recibirán conocimiento sobre cómo proyectar y mantener activa su empresa en el tiempo.
¿Quiénes participan en el taller?
15 emprendedores hispanos están próximos a terminar la primera fase del taller. Ixchel Ibarra, una de las asistentes, afirma que esta es una oportunidad que ella y los demás emprendedores estaban esperando.
“Me motiva la oportunidad de poder emprender, no solo limitarme a trabajos de construcción o limpieza, sino poder ser propietaria de mi propia empresa. El taller me ha servido
para confiar en mí, a mejorar mi idea de negocio y crear objetivos claros” . Comentó Ixchel. Gunnison abrió una ventana a la creación de una cadena de desarrollo económico. Un logro que se atribuye a la gestión de diferentes instituciones y su trabajo cercano con la comunidad hispana. La creación de recursos para este tipo de proyectos ha logrado motivar a todos aquellos que tienen potencial empresarial, hoy la comunidad tiene una guía de conocimiento que permite potenciar el desarrollo económico y empresarial en el valle.
(Laura Cardozo puede ser contactada al 970.641.1414.)
Laura Cardozo Special to the Times
(Translated from Spanish by Yazmin Molina.)
This Friday, April 21 at the ICELab, 15 Spanish-speaking entrepreneurs will present business ideas they have developed through a start-up training workshop called the Rocky Mountain MicroFinance Institute.
Collaborators from the City of Gunnison, Gunnison Country Chamber of Commerce, Multicultural Services, Hispanic Affairs Project, Inmigrantes Unidos and Skyeler Smith, an aspiring MBA candidate at Western Colorado University, were brought together for their expertise in areas identified as a gap in the Hispanic community's opportunities for entrepreneurial development.
How to create opportunities for entrepreneurs?
According to Ricardo Esqueda, community liaison for the City of Gunnison, the
collaborating entities realized that, in Gunnison County, Hispanic entrepreneurs were short on the resources necessary to create their own businesses.
"From this need, several working departments came together to seek resources to help improve this situation,” Esqueda said. “Rocky Mountain MicroFinance Institute, which has successful experience with Hispanic communities, was contacted. We were able to get Gunnison's entrepreneurs to receive workshops and consulting services to strengthen their business creation skills.”
What is Rocky Mountain MicroFinance Institute (RMMFI)?
According to RMMFI's website, the institute provides comprehensive support to entrepreneurs to enhance their entrepreneurial spirit. This support includes not only access to capital, but also education. Stephen Ruddell, site activation manager at RMMFI, found a great reception from the Gunnison community.
"Most of the entrepreneurs have chosen to attend the workshops in person, this demonstrates their interest in learning and their commitment to building their businesses,” Ruddell said. "I am amazed at how they have created a support network among themselves in which they discuss issues of interest and raise options for working in the community.”
El distrito escolar aprueba un arquitecto para el proyecto para mejorar las instalaciones
El Consejo Escolar del Distrito Escolar de Gunnison Watershed ha seleccionado un equipo de arquitectos para dirigir los trabajos de diseño para la mejora de todo el distrito tras la aprobación de los 95 millones de dólares del bono el pasado otoño.
En noviembre, la votación de la 5A fue aprobada por un estrecho margen y se apoya con un aumento del impuesto sobre la propiedad de 5.7 mills, o alrededor de 200 dólares al año por cada 500.000 dólares de valor de la propiedad residencial. El bono incluye la financiación de proyectos en todas las escuelas del distrito - Lake Preschool, Crested Butte y Gunnison Community Schools, Gunnison High School y Marble Charter School - y da prioridad a mejorar la seguridad, reducir el exceso de alumnos en North Valley y el mantenimiento de los edificios.
Ruddell also noted that, in his experience, this is the first time he found a true union between institutions that support the Hispanic community.
What does the workshop consist of?
The program has three stages. The first is the Idea Lab, where, for a period of four weeks, the participants learn how to design a business idea. During the second phase, entrepreneurs will be able to create and execute an action plan for the success of their business. Finally, in the last phase, they will learn how to project and maintain their business over time.
Who is participating in the workshop?
Fifteen Hispanic entrepreneurs are close to completing the first phase of the workshop, which will culminate this Friday with the presentations. Ixchel Ibarra, one of the attendees, said this is an opportunity she and the other entrepreneurs have been waiting for.
"I am motivated by the opportunity to be able to be an entrepreneur, not just limit myself to construction or cleaning jobs, but to be able to own my own business,” he said. “The workshop has helped me to have confidence in myself, to improve my business idea and to create clear objectives.”
(Laura Cardozo can be contacted at 970.641.1414.)
The Gunnison County historical Preservation Commission would like to honor our agricultural heritage through the annual award of recognition to a historical ranch or significant rather(s). Candidates criteria: Property that has been engaged in agricultural operations for over 100 years, even with ownership changes; a ranch that has maintained their historical structures; or a person that has developed a significant agricultural practice or piece of equipment.
Please send us your nomination and a brief description to HPC@gunnisoncounty.org. HPC will accept nominations April-May and announce nominees in June. Honorees will be celebrated with public acknowledgment and a special plaque in July.
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Gunnison alcanzará el 100% de energía renovable
El Consejo Municipal de Gunnison firmó el martes un acuerdo que convertirá a la ciudad en uno de los tres únicos municipios de Colorado en recibir el 100% de su electricidad de fuentes renovables, alcanzando así un objetivo definido en el plan de sostenibilidad que el consejo adoptó en 2022.
El "Programa de Energía Verde" lo ofrece el proveedor de energía de la ciudad, la Agencia Municipal de Energía de Nebraska (MEAN), una cooperativa eléctrica que suministra energía a municipios de cuatro estados, incluido Colorado. Al suscribirse al programa, la ciudad solicita un aumento de la cantidad de energías renovables -eólica, gas de vertedero, solar e hidroeléctrica- vendidas a la ciudad cada año para cumplir el objetivo de Gunnison de una ciudad 100% libre de carbono.
Desde el pasado mes, la Upper Gunnison River Basin (cuenca alta del río Gunnison), junto con el resto de la zona oeste, ya no registra condiciones de sequía. Se trata de un cambio bienvenido desde principios de año, cuando casi el 30% del condado registraba "condiciones anormalmente secas", el nivel menos grave en el Monitor de Sequía de EE.UU..
La ausencia de condiciones de sequía significa que, en sólo dos años, la cuenca ha pasado lentamente de las categorías de sequía más extremas o excepcionales del monitor -las más altas de su escala de intensidada la ausencia total de condiciones de sequía. El Front Range no ha tenido tanta suerte, ya que la mayoría de los condados siguen mostrando una sequía "grave" o "moderada."
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