by Gena Akers
Alamosa Residents Set Eyes on Arts Center
A group of individuals have joined forces in Alamosa to purchase and renovate the historic Christian Science Society building near downtown. The space, which can seat nearly 200 people, will become Society Hall, a community gathering space to host live music, theatre, poets and writers, and other special events. Currently, there is no such dedicated arts space in Alamosa. Funds are currently being raised via an Indiegogo campaign.
County Seeks Support for New Courthouse
Alamosa County Commissioners are working to finalize a November ballot question, calling for an increase in sales taxes to support the construction of a new county courthouse. The potential tax increase could raise $21.4 million. The last time residents were asked to consider a funding proposal related to the courthouse was 1988.
Valley Residents Reappointed to Ag Commission
Alvin Kunugi of Blanca and Segundo S. Diaz of Alamosa were reappointed by Gov.John Hickenlooper to continue to serve on the State Agricultural Commission. Their terms will expire in 2019. The commission formulates policy regarding the management of the Department of Agriculture while also advising the governor and general assembly.
Veterans Coalition Improves Access to Health
The Veterans Coalition of the San Luis Valley is seeking to improve health access for the 4,500 military veterans living in the Valley. In partnership with the regional hospital and behavioral health providers, the coalition has plans to replace the veteran-serving primary care provider who left in April. Without a local care option, veterans must travel to the Front Range to access even basic services.
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Sand Dunes Drive Economic Development
A report from the U.S. Department of the Interior found that visitors to the Great Sand Dunes National Park and Preserve near Mosca contributed $15.8 million in spending to the San Luis Valley economy. This is $1.7 million higher than 2013. The park had 271,774 visitors in 2014, significantly higher than 2013.
Homeless Shelter Sees Influx of Families and Children
La Puente Home Shelter’s beds and couches are full in Alamosa. During May, between 14 and 21 children were at the shelter with their families. This is up from just 3 to 5 children during the same time last year. The surge in need has put a significant burden on the organization’s resources and partner programs. The shelter director reports that families are fleeing domestic violence and unsafe living conditions, and are searching for a better life in general.
Artist Sets Brush to Village at Wolf Creek
Alamosa Artist Dave Montgomery will be hosting “Art for the Creek” on June 20 in hopes of adding a new perspective to the area slated to become the Village at Wolf Creek. Developers have been trying for over two decades to approve the construction of a resort, with much opposition along the way. The Forest Service recently approved the land swap with Texas businessman B.J. “Red” McCombs. The decision gives the Forest Service 177.6 acres of wetlands, fens, springs and streams. McCombs gets 204.4 acres of federal land that will be used to construct a road, connecting his property with U.S. Hwy. 160.
Shorts
• The City of Alamosa hosted a public meeting to gather input on whether or not a fee should be placed on the use of plastic bags. The intention of the fee would be to reduce landfill waste.
• Petty Officer 3rd Class Devon Doyle died on May 16 in Manama, Bahrain, falling from a hotel balcony. Doyle graduated from Alamosa High School in 2012.
• Adams State University trustees unanimously approved a 5.6 percent increase on In-state student tuition for this coming fall. Tuition for full-time, out-of-state students will remain unchanged.
• Creede Repertory Theatre has welcomed all 94 company members for its 2015 season and is gearing up for a summer of 50th Anniversary festivities.
