Brief by Marcia Darnell
San Luis Valley – December 2002 – Colorado Central Magazine
Water Levies
Yes, it’s levies, not levees, as the Rio Grande Water Conservation District wants to reduce water usage during the continuing drought. The district will divide the San Luis Valley regions into sub-districts and impose levies based on water rights of those properties. Water attorney David Robbins is checking into whether a public vote is needed for such action.
In Alamosa, the city may buy Price Water, including water rights, pumps, and other equipment. The city’s option for the $500,000 purchase expires in March.
Grant Goes Bye-Bye
South Fork lost out on a possible Department of Energy grant to develop geothermal resources and make electricity. Town Manager Terry Whelan attributed the DOE’s negative response to Colorado’s reputation for being less than enthusiastic about alternative energy sources. Private energy companies have contacted the town about developing the resources, but South Fork wants to partner with a non-profit for the project. Whelan plans to apply for a new grant next year.
The local voters themselves vetoed a tax increase to build a community center and develop an industrial park.
Help Wanted
The Colorado Department of Health and Environment is looking for contractors to build a water treatment plant and other water management structures at Summitville. The old treatment plant is on life support, and the state wants a new one, which they expect to last “into perpetuity.” That should bring in some interesting bids.
In Creede, residents are considering a bypass or truck route for Colorado 149, with the help of CDOT.
Recession Bites
Adams State College is facing deep budget cuts, meaning layoffs and other reductions. The Alamosa Combined Court has reduced staff and hours and all departments in Alamosa County are facing budget cuts in 2003.
Voters in Conejos County said “no” to a mill levy to support Conejos County Hospital, which is also in financial trouble.
And the CSU Cooperative Extension office is losing its digs in Alamosa County. The service will have to cut $12,000 from its budget and find a new home next year.
Under Scrutiny
Paula Woodward, star investigative reporter for 9 News, is spotlighting Conejos County Sheriff Isaac Gallegos. It seems the sheriff has county prisoners building an addition to his house and doing other personal work. Gallegos says he’s paying the inmates, but hadn’t offered proof (as of Colorado Central’s deadline).
Brief Briefs
Action 22, Club 20 and Progressive 15 have jointly issued a position statement on water. The full text can be found at Action22.org.
The Colorado Wildfire Academy will return to the Valley in 2003. The event’s coordinator credited community support of the academy at Adams State College this year.
Monte Vista Wildlife Refuge celebrated its 50th anniversary. The event was marked with parties, presentations, and the opening of three new pullouts, the better to watch wildlife with, my dear.
The Saguache County delinquent tax sale was a big success, netting the county over $300,000. Most of the land involved was in the Baca Grande.
The mayor and city council of Denver gave a used fire truck to Center.
Alamosa gained a Wendy’s restaurant this fall, and a K-Bob’s Steakhouse is slated to open in March. It’s unclear as to which type of “population growth” this defines.
The La Jara Police Department will install video cameras in its four vehicles, like the ones on “Cops.” And the Monte Vista Fire Department welcomed its first female volunteer, Cindy Espinosa.
