Middle bridge opens to all traffic starting this week
CDOT aims for ‘back to normal’ two-way traffic before winter
Abby Harrison Times Staff Writer
Six months after the closure of the Hwy. 50 middle bridge, larger vehicles like trucks, trailers and RVs can now rumble across it. The Colorado Department of Transportation’s (CDOT) goal is to open the bridge for two-way traffic before winter, returning it to “normal.”
Starting on Oct. 16, the bridge will open in single-lane alternating traffic to all legal loads
for 24 hours a day, seven days a week. Heavier vehicles — semi trucks, large motorhomes and charter buses — will be allowed over the bridge one at a time. Holdups to allow these larger vehicles across will create some additional delays. Final repairs on the bridge will be done at night, from 11:30 p.m. to 6 a.m.
Crews from Kiewit, CDOT’s contractor, have completed “major” structural repairs on the bridge in the last two months. Workers will start to lay paint and primer, but anticipate coming back next spring for touch-ups, extending the end of the project into May of 2025.
Late-night travelers should expect longer wait times, similar to current wait times at the
Bridge A7
NEWS: GMUG acquires new wilderness, A26
COMMUNITY: A silver lining in Crested Butte, B1
SPORTS: GHS softball flies into playoffs, B6
A2 OPINION A4
A19-A24 SPORTS B6
CB short-term rental ensnared in ongoing lawsuits
When do vacation rentals become commercial uses under county code?
Abby Harrison Times Staff Writer
A backcountry home and vacation rental north of Crested Butte is at the center of two lawsuits filed by the homeowner against Gunnison County.
One notable argument is, at what point does the type of use, and location of a short-
term rental (STR) outweigh its occasional function as a private residence — elevating it to a commercial use under county codes? Homeowner Andrew Fink and his legal team contend that a recent county ruling may set a precedent for the more than 1,300 STRs within Gunnison County, some of which rent out for thousands of dollars per night.
This past July, the Gunnison County Board of Adjustment (BOA), responsible for reviewing land use decisions, decided that certain marketing details and available amenities at a 3,000-square foot home in Washington Gulch elevated it to a commercial use under the county’s land use resolution
Campfire A6
City wrapping up first portion of water plant design
Recent changes result in further cost savings
Bella Biondini Times Editor
While the process is moving slowly, the City of Gunnison has been tightening up the design of its coming water treatment plant.
The city currently relies on a system of wells to supply drinking water to residents. According to city staff, this system lacks redundancy in the case a contaminant enters the aquifer it pulls water from,
or in the case of drought. The method it uses to treat the water is also outdated and no longer permitted by the state. In response, the city plans to build a new water treatment plant, its largest project the municipality has taken on in recent history, at the cityowned Van Tuyl Ranch. The water system upgrades will be split into five separate projects.
Project 1 focuses on the collection of “raw” or untreated water; project 2 is the complex system of pipes that will move water to a treatment plant; and project 3 is the new plant. Projects 4 and 5, far out into the future, create additional water storage and a possible reservoir.
Water plant A9
SKY DANCE: The northern lights put on a show in the Gunnison night sky on Oct. 10 following a solar storm early last week. For more, see B5. (Photo by Mariel Wiley)
QUOTE of the week
“The people in these groups inspire each other and help each other, and we just keep lifting each other up.”
— Meaghan Young, jewelry maker
See story on B1
Two Gunnison police chief
candidates emerge
Two finalists have been selected for the soon-to-be vacant City of Gunnison chief of police position. Earlier this year, Chief Keith Robinson announced he will retire in January 2025.
Columbia, Ltd., an external recruiter, led the national search. After reviewing 17 applications, the following candidates were chosen by a selection committee: James Lewis III, a retired Major of Dallas, Texas, and Philip Lukens, the former chief of police in Alliance, Nebraska.
The finalists will participate in a public forum on Thursday, Oct. 24 from 6-7:30 p.m. at the Western’s University Center Ballroom. This event will provide an opportunity for residents to meet the finalists and learn more about their prior experience. At the forum, the candidates will answer pre-selected questions, followed by informal mingling.
Emergency fish salvage in place
Colorado Parks and Wildlife (CPW) announced an emergency public fish salvage that became effective on Oct. 4 at Lost Lake Slough, located roughly 15 miles west of Crested Butte.
The salvage mitigates imminent fish loss, as the lake will be drained by the middle of October to allow the outlet valve to be surveyed on Oct. 23. After the work is complete, the valve will be closed so that the reservoir can be refilled next spring during runoff.
The lake is regularly stocked with 4,000 catchable size rainbow trout each year. All bag and possession limits for the reservoir are removed for the duration of the salvage. Anglers must have a valid 2024 Colorado fishing license.
Commercial angling is not allowed as part of this salvage.
The emergency salvage will be in place through April 1, 2025. When the reservoir regains adequate water, CPW will restock the reservoir.
Lee Owen Fortner
Lee Owen Fortner, age 83, passed away on Sept. 22, 2024 at his home in Montrose, Colorado. Lee was born April 4, 1941, in Olathe, Colorado to Ralph and Lois Brown Fortner. He was raised and graduated from high school in Montrose. Lee was married to Thelma Lou for 32 years before she passed away on Dec. 27, 2021. Lee worked for the Colorado Department of Transportation in Gunnison, Colorado for 30 years before retiring. In his spare time Lee enjoyed outdoor activities like hunting, camping, fishing and going on four-wheel drive adventures with family and friends.
Surviving relatives include Lee’s son Brad Fortner, stepson Bobby Oberosler and stepdaughter Tania Williams. Lee’s grandchildren include Kaylynn, Trey and Tyler Fortner, in addition to Taylor, Maggie and Abigail Williams and Andee Oberosler. A private family graveside service will be held at the Olathe Cemetery.
We want your announcements!
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On October 4, 2024 at 7:35 p.m. Simon Bennett was born to parents Molly Susla and Drew Holbrook of Crested Butte. He weighed 6 lbs. 2 oz. and measured 20 inches in length. His grandparents are Christine Holbrook of Gunnison, Fred and Nany of Grand Junction and Holly and Ben of Freeport, Maine. Simon is so excited to hang out with all of his friends.
On July 31, 2024 at 5:47 p.m. Leonidas Pagonis was born to parents Andrea and Dion Pagonis of Crested Butte. He weighed 6 lbs. at birth. He has 2 older siblings. 16-year-old Christian and 2 year old Evia. His grandparents are Stephen Rego of Crested Butte and Darlene and Demosthenes Pagonis of New York, New York.
Mountain majesty
Prayer flags fluttered in the wind atop the Red Lady’s summit on Oct. 13. Despite falling temperatures, the peaks have yet to retain their first layer of fresh snow.
UNDERCONTRACT
(Photos by Mariel Wiley)
Simon Bennett
Leonidas Pagonis
Bicyclist struck by car near high school
Juvenile suffered minor injuries
Bella Biondini Times Editor
The Gunnison Police Department responded to a bicycle-vehicle crash on the morning of Oct. 9. According to law enforcement officers, the victim, a juvenile, suffered only minor injuries. Their name has not been released.
At approximately 8:15 a.m. the police department received a report that a bicyclist had been struck by a car at the
500 block of North 8th Street behind Gunnison High School.
According to a press release, a juvenile had pedaled onto 8th Street where a vehicle traveling south collided with the biker.
After the first impact, the biker was then thrown into the northbound lane where a second car struck the victim.
Emergency medical personnel arrived and transported the victim to Gunnison Valley Hospital where they were treated. The juvenile was wearing a bike helmet at the time of the accident. The speed limit for the street during school hours is 20 mph.
No tickets have been issued to the drivers involved in the
A floral farewell
accident. Police Captain Chris Wilson said the child exited the sidewalk adjacent to a parked vehicle, possibly without looking. Neither driver was found to be speeding or at fault for a traffic violation.
“We go to the schools and talk about this [bike safety], but it can't just come from us … This is a bike-friendly community and I think we all enjoy that part of Gunnison,” Wilson said. At the same time, it doesn't take very long for something bad to happen. We're all very thankful that child had a helmet on.”
(Bella Biondini can be contacted at 970.641.1414 or bella@ gunnisontimes.com.)
Jerrie and Bob Lodato of Hope & Glory and Misty Mountain Floral received a proclamation from the City of Gunnison during a city council meeting on Oct. 8. The document recognized the couple for their 30 years business on Main Street as they transition to retirement.
(Courtesy Celeste Helminski/Gunnison Country Chamber of Commerce)
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LETTERS
A nuanced view of Prop. 129
Editor:
OPINION
Proposition 129 aims to create a new mid-level veterinary position called a veterinary professional associate (VPA.) Those wishing to become a VPA would complete a mostly-online master’s degree in veterinary clinical care, in order to “practice veterinary medicine under the supervision of a licensed veterinarian.” This includes diagnosing, prognosing, prescribing treatments and performing surgery. There is currently no credentialing organization, no national competency exam and only one 30-credit-hour master’s program in the nation to oversee this proposed position.
Proponents of 129 claim that there is a critical veterinary workforce shortage impacting the animals of Colorado and leading to an access-toveterinary-care crisis. While the number of veterinary visits spiked during the pandemic, the demand for vet visits has since slowed. According to the Veterinary Industry Tracker, there has been a 2.5% reduction in companion animal visits in just the last year. Furthermore, data show that by 2030, the number of vets providing companion animal services will grow by at least 20%, thanks to current enrollment and three new veterinary schools graduating veterinarians by 2025. This doesn’t even take into account the 10 new veterinary colleges in various stages of development.
It seems short-sighted to create an entirely new, unsupported mid-level VPA position when the profession is already heading toward normalization and potentially an oversupply of veterinarians.
2024 Member
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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.
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veterinarians and by expanding the role of registered veterinary technicians in Colorado.
House Bill 24-1047, passed earlier this year, outlines the tasks that may be delegated to registered veterinary technicians and veterinary technician specialists, under direct supervision of a veterinarian. This expanded list of duties includes many of the things that VPAs are proposed to do. Tasks include dental prophylaxis and extractions, wound management, anesthesia induction and monitoring, closure of surgical incisions, chemotherapy administration, CPR and other emergency procedures, just to name a few. Utilizing our existing registered technicians can help fill the gaps in veterinary care, without the creation of a completely new and unfounded position. Please join me in voting no on Proposition 129.
Ashley Portmann Home Together Veterinary Services
Prop. 127 would set dangerous precedent
Editor:
With hunting and election seasons in full swing in Gunnison County, it’s crucial that we remain vigilant about the conservation challenges we face, particularly as they relate to public lands and wildlife.
tions remain healthy. A “lynx hunting ban” is a red herring. There is no lynx hunting in Colorado, and lynx are a federally-protected species.
By removing regulated hunting, Prop. 127 risks destabilizing these populations and handicapping professional biologists and wildlife management agencies. It would also eliminate opportunities for hunters who contribute significantly to conservation efforts through license fees that fund wildlife management, habitat restoration and law enforcement.
We urge all residents of Gunnison County to educate themselves about the true implications of Prop. 127. Join us in advocating for a sciencebased approach to wildlife management that respects both our natural heritage and the principles of conservation that protect it. Vote ‘no’ on Proposition 127 this fall to safeguard Colorado's wildlife management for future generations.
John Chandler Chris Parmeter Derek Pankratz Backcountry Hunters & Anglers, Gunnison Chapter
Crested Butte County?
Editor:
Would the creation of a VPA help those animals most in need of care? Those in favor of Prop. 129 say that the accessto-care crisis is impacting the welfare of companion animals, the livelihood of members of the animal agriculture industry and the safety of our food supply. The proposed VPA Master’s program being developed at Colorado State University expressly states that it will solely train individuals to treat dogs and cats (companion animals.)
In contrast, veterinarians learn how to treat a multitude of species, allowing them to better serve large animals like horses and livestock, as well as pursue jobs in food and farm safety. Rather than establishing a small-animal only VPA position, why don’t we focus on recruiting individuals interested in pursuing large animal medicine to become veterinarians?
This is redundant. Proponents maintain that the access-to-care crisis cannot be solved without seeking new ways to bring additional people into the veterinary workforce. We are already addressing this problem by graduating more
This year, Proposition 127 is set to appear on our ballots, and its implications for wildlife management could be profound and detrimental. Prop. 127 seeks to ban hunting of mountain lions, bobcats and lynx in Colorado. While proponents of this initiative argue for animal rights, they do so at the expense of science-based wildlife management practices that have served our state well. The North American Model of Wildlife Conservation, which emphasizes responsible hunting as a critical tool for maintaining healthy ecosystems, would be undermined by this measure.
Contrary to some of the misleading and incorrect information being circulated, those who pursue mountain lions are not “trophy hunters” who don’t eat what they take. That’s a position at odds with both Colorado law, which requires that all edible portions of a harvested mountain lion be prepared properly for human consumption, and the firsthand experiences of countless hunters and their friends and family.
Mountain lions and bobcats in Colorado are not under threat. Colorado Parks and Wildlife estimates the mountain lion population to be between 3,800 and 4,400, with strong growth since they were classified as a big game species in 1965. Our state’s wildlife management practices have established quotas and education programs that ensure popula -
to the bone. Leaders who will export the egos and import humility and common sense. Let’s vote for Steve Bathje and Lisa Henry and give them a try.
Frank Vader Parlin
Join me in voting for the Democratic ticket
Editor:
Some are asking themselves, “Should I vote this year?” Does it make a difference, aren’t politicians mostly the same … concerned about their political futures, willing to say whatever they think people want to hear?
To me, the answer is clear, especially for this election. Everyone who is eligible should vote, because the results will lead to a starkly different future for us and future generations. Nationally, our future can be based upon integrity, hope and opportunity, or it will be guided by fear, division and radical change. Our foreign relationships can be based upon collaboration with our allies and clear-headed policy decisions, or based upon disparagement of those allies and sympathetic feelings toward ruthless dictators.
It’s time we make the obvious official, rename the county. After all, Gunnison is the new Crested Butte and Crested Butte is the new Aspen-Vail. We have three commissioner districts: east, west and north, with a commissioner in each. In the rural area of Districts 1 and 2, we have been largely forgotten as all three sets of eyes are focused north.
Unfortunately, we have not been forgotten by the tax assessor and the building inspector. Will Rogers once quoted,” Thank God we are not getting all of the government we are paying for.” That was a valid statement at the time, but in this day and age we are getting way more government than we want or need and it comes at a horrific price — both financially and in the loss of personal freedom evidenced by the mass exodus of the middle class, especially the middle class retirees.
I work in the ranching community of the Upper Tomichi and Quartz Creek and, like many ranchers, I have appealed to the new public works director to resume routine maintenance of the right of way fences, a basic service we used to get, as well as it being state law. The response is not only no, but no with an attitude. That also is a chronic problem in our county government. Inflated egos and narcissism are predominant traits in the th administration. The days of humble public servants and basic services are out the window.
We need leaders that will get in there and trim the fat clear
In the House of Representatives, we can have actions taken which lead to better government and a stronger economy for all workers and families, or continue with the chaotic and unproductive actions of the current majority of representatives.
Locally, we can continue with the county and state governments who get the important things done for us in a way that is imitated by other Colorado counties and other states, or we can choose to be represented by those who have little or no experience representing others and who may work to take away our hard-fought rights.
I have been a Democrat since I was 18 years old (although I’ve voted for some Republicans too). I have never been prouder of that fact and can honestly say that the entire Democratic ticket this year, from the national to local levels, has the best candidates of any I’ve ever seen. They are all caring, empathetic, sharp folks who listen to our needs, work with others who may disagree, and get the job done. The choice has never been so clear, and I am voting for the entire Democratic ticket this month. Please join me.
Jim Starr Crested Butte
Liz shows leadership
Editor:
Whenever I vote, I choose the candidate who best represents my views and values. They also must show that they are capa-
ble of doing the job, creatively and with devotion. In this year’s county commissioners’ race, I firmly believe that Liz Smith has the proven talents necessary to continue to perform a difficult job well.
I met Liz shortly before she ran for the seat four years ago. Since then, I have worked with her on the Gunnison Basin Sage-Grouse Strategic Committee, where she represents Gunnison County, and have found her to be a forwardthinking, positive person, who quickly grasped the complexities of the sage-grouse’s needs — both on-the-ground and in management programs. Hiring a cheatgrass coordinator is one example of her support for a dire need in the basin. It will benefit Gunnison sage-grouse, other wildlife and agriculture. Liz has shown leadership on other issues as well. I am impressed by her support for public lands-related initiatives that have been embraced by numerous sectors of our community, like the GORP Act. Working together is a hallmark of Gunnison County.
I strongly encourage you to join me in voting for Liz Smith for county commissioner. Our county will be well-served for the next four years.
Sue Navy Crested Butte
Important choices close to home
Editor:
As our election approaches, I hope everyone has given careful thought to their choices for all candidates and issues on the ballot. We have to choose our next president, yes, but there are also some very important choices to make closer to home. Our state legislature makes decisions that have immediate, and far-reaching effects on our lives. That’s why I support Kathleen Curry to represent us in Colorado House District 58. She is an experienced legislator, which means she can get to work quickly on issues that matter to us like protecting our water and expanding access to health care and affordable housing. Kathleen knows the needs of ranchers in our district — she is one. She knows the needs of small business owners — she has walked in those shoes. We can trust her to understand our needs and work toward providing for them in a productive, cooperative spirit. Kathleen wants to work for us, she has no interest in wasting time and energy in senseless partisan conflict. Because of her expertise and experience, Kathleen has earned endorsements from many leaders, including Colorado Attorney General Phil Weiser and Speaker of the House Julie McCluskie. More locally, she has earned the endorsements of the mayors of Gunnison and Crested Butte.
Organizations involved with
agriculture, conservation, education and business also back her candidacy. More details can be found on her website, curryforcolorado.com.
I encourage everyone to get out and vote, and when you do, vote for Kathleen Curry for Colorado House District 58.
Laurie Gery Gunnison
Vote yes on 6A
Editor:
I am in support of 6A, and I want you to be too. I’m in support of 6A because I believe a new library north of Round Mountain is needed.
Whenever I visit the Gunnison County Library, I see an inviting, accessible space with free public meeting and event rooms, a well-equipped, dedicated children’s area, quiet study areas, functional librarian workspaces and a large collection of books and other media. I also see that the Gunnison library is thriving with people and activity; attending workshops and meetings, children’s events, readers, students, locals, visitors, young and old. Conversely, when I visit the Old Rock Library in Crested Butte (which has great character and charm) I am struck by how small, quiet and underequipped this stand-alone North Valley facility is, especially in relation to all the families, residents and visitors in the North Valley.
I recognize that the cost of growing library access, programming, collections and facilities is real, but I also know our community will benefit greatly from the expansions 6A will bring. If you love libraries and growing community too, please vote yes on 6A. Thank you.
Matt Feier Gunnison County Public Libraries Board
Vote for the most knowl-
edgeable candidate
Editor:
I am writing this letter of support for Jonathan Houck for county commissioner as a native of Gunnison and a retired Gunnison County employee.
As a native, I have a vested interest in the success of our county. I want to see it grow and prosper in a way that promotes our economy so our children can afford to live here, but also grows in a way that supports our values and our heritage as a ranching-mining community. Jonathan supports those same values. He has demonstrated his support through development of affordable housing, support for the ranching community as they deal with Gunnison sage-grouse issues, drought and the impact of recreation on public lands shared with cattle grazing.
As an employee of Gunnison County for 37 plus years, I had
the privilege of working with many good, dedicated commissioners. Jonathan has been one of those. His commitment to the job, his willingness to listen and his scrutiny of budgets won my respect. He understands the need to meet current needs, while keeping our current infrastructure sound.
He recognizes the need for sources of new funding for the Public Works Department. Gunnison County receives money from many sources, but many of the dollars have restricted uses. For example, state law prohibits the use of property tax dollars for road maintenance. Gas tax, which is the major source of funding, has not increased since 1992, even when the price of gas increases. Any new tax must be paid by all users of the roads, not a mill levy that would just be paid by property owners. All aspects of our economy and quality of life require roads and bridges in good condition and safe for travel.
Jonathan knows Gunnison County. He knows the terrain and the people in the more remote areas from Marble to Cimarron, to the Powderhorn and Whitepine areas. He listens to their concerns and gathers the facts from staff, from other residents in the area and is responsive. He cannot always say yes to their requests, but he can always let them know they have been heard and he is searching for suitable solutions. Being a commissioner takes time and a strong commitment to the job. It takes time away from home lobbying on behalf of your constituents. Jonathan has always been a commissioner who is willing to do his homework, vote to support sensible county regulations and represent the people that he serves. I trust he will continue to be that commissioner.
Marlene Crosby Gunnison
Houck, a leader who builds community
Editor:
There has been a narrative lately among many in the Republican Party that life was better and our community was better in “The good ole’ days.”
Recently, Steve Bathje said in the Sept. 18 newspaper article, “As I look at the Gunnison County and where it was when I first arrived in 1977, how the county used to be, neighbor helping neighbor, walking down the street and knowing everyone, or visiting with friends at a store — it’s not the same anymore.” Well, I’d like to challenge this sentiment.
I think we have an amazing community and I also believe it is up to each and every one of us to take an active role in continually building and maintaining it. Yes, our county has grown since 1977, but on my street, we very much know our neighbors and we do help each other all
(LUR). At the time, the home was managed by Campfire Ranch, a growing Gunnison Valley-based outdoor recreation concessionaire created by Western Colorado University graduate Sam Degenhard. Campfire also manages properties in Taylor Canyon, Red Mountain Pass and soon, in Arkansas. The property has since been removed from Campfire’s website, but was previously listed for $1,500 a night.
Under the county’s land use resolution, new commercial uses generally need to meet certain site-specific standards to protect surrounding land. These standards may include water quality protection or protection of wildlife habitat areas, which could require Fink to conduct additional studies.
Fink, under the LLC McCloud Placer, is contesting the BOA’s decision in Gunnison District Court. But the question of the home’s designation as commercial or residential is just one of several legal disputes. McCloud filed a lawsuit regarding the property’s septic system sitting in the Colorado Court of Appeals, and a recently-dismissed legal action regarding public records access.
Fink, a former investment fund manager now focusing on refurbishing historic buildings in Colorado, lives full-time in Boulder. The months of litigation have taken a toll on his family, and businesses, he wrote in a statement to the Times
“It has been brutal for us … Instead of enjoying the valley, we have spent the last 7 months in appeals hearings and court proceedings,” Fink wrote.
But the BOA ruled that Gunnison County Community and Economic Development “acted properly” in determining the uses at the McCloud property, Deputy County Attorney Alex San Filippo-Rosser wrote in a statement to the Times. In multiple hearings over the summer, BOA members affirmed that staff acted to protect the safety and well-being of potential occupants, protect surrounding natural resources and account for the ways in which the property was marketed and could be used.
The board’s decision to move the property to a commercial use was limited to the unique facts of this case, San Filippo-Rosser wrote. But since McCloud’s legal dispute began, county staff have initiated “additional enforcement inquiry,” with some of the properties that Fink’s legal team highlighted as similar during hearings. At this time, no formal action — like issuing stop orders or violations — has been taken.
“Moving forward in the litigation, the County will ask the court to affirm the BOA’s decision, and the County hopes that the property owner will come into compliance with County land use and building code regulations,” he wrote.
What makes a commercial use?
Late in 2023 and into 2024, Community and Economic Development claimed the prop-
erty was in violation of a number of the county’s land use and building codes. To address one of those issues, staff requested that Fink come into compliance with septic codes and submit a minor impact land use change permit to make the property a commercial use. Commercial use means it is “engaged in the retail or wholesale of goods or services,” according to the LUR.
The BOA, composed of the three county commissioners, in addition to Julie Baca and Andy Tocke, debated the issue over several hours-long hearings throughout the spring and summer. In those meetings, board members singled out the partnership with Campfire Ranch, the property’s advertising and amenities, and the change in use to more than 10 paying guests since it was last permitted as a singlefamily residence under 1994 building codes.
The BOA ruled that the property met the definition of a resort, “providing either organized entertainment or recreational opportunities for overnight lodging, generally several nights in duration.” It upheld Community Development’s decision to suspend the home’s certificate of occupancy, which had been temporarily revoked following the discovery of unvented gas appliances. It also determined staff did not violate McCloud’s constitutional rights to due process by revoking the certificate and not communicating with him adequately prior to the suspension.
The Colorado legislature empowered counties to regulate vacation, or “short-term rentals” in 2023, but the county has yet to do so. Fink’s lawyer Daniel Spivey argued at a hearing in May that instead of passing regulations, the county is trying to specifically regulate this STR through “the backdoor” of the LUR and the building code. The decision could set a precedent for every other STR in unincorporated Gunnison County, he said.
Fink’s lawyers argued that county staff used the home’s proximity to outdoor recreation, including that guests can access backcountry skiing from the property, to deem it a commercial resort. Spivey argued that not only is Campfire’s management of the property no different from other Gunnison Valley STRs, but that the county has not designated other similar rentals as commercial uses.
“What about mountain biking, fishing, rafting or paddle boarding?” Spivey said in the May hearing. “If you can do these activities directly from your short-term rental property, does that make it a commercial enterprise as opposed to residential singlefamily homes that are short-term rented?”
Other short-term rentals in the county use property management services, including Iron Horse Property Management, Alpine Getaways or Crested Butte Property Management. All three companies offer “concierge” services on their websites, such as horseback riding, in-house gear fittings, airport shuttles and private ski lessons. For example, Iron Horse advertises many of the services it can arrange for guests, stating on its website, “We can coordinate any adventure you
can dream up.”
“Mr. Fink is doing the same thing as many dozens of other homeowners in unincorporated Gunnison County. Campfire is doing the same thing many other property management companies in the county are doing,” Spivey said at the hearing.
But the BOA determined that the property’s “coordinated branding” around curated, adventure-based experiences, especially backcountry skiing, made it distinct. Members stated that the home benefited from Campfire’s integrated branding, appearing as “Campfire Ranch Wash Gulch” in the popular local Beacon Guidebooks, Outside Magazine, across social media and on booking sites Airbnb and VRBO. Campfire’s property up Taylor Canyon is currently regulated as a commercial use.
Through Campfire, guests can buy skiing guidebooks, rent gear and have it transported to the property and arrange for skiing guides to meet guests at the cabin. In a declaration filed with the BOA in June, Degenhard stated that no guest at the property had yet paid for concierge services, gear shuttles or purchased a guidebook.
For BOA member and county commissioner Jonathan Houck, Campfire’s offerings exceed runof-the-mill property management.
“It’s not like we have a couple homes in town that we’re putting clean linens [on] and making sure it's clean before the next guest gets there,” Houck said. “They're all centered around this adventure of experience, which is commercial in nature.”
The board also acknowledged nuances in the way the property was advertised. This includes a space for brands to launch advertising campaigns, microweddings and elopements, video shoots and group retreats. Fink and Degenhard removed some of this advertising as a “sign of good faith,” but maintained they didn’t need to.
“I don't think that a normal person or somebody looking at those things would say, ‘Oh, this
is a regular short-term rental,’” said BOA member and County Commissioner Liz Smith. “I think that most people would say this is a property that is distinctive, it's part of a distinctive brand for commercial operation.”
A number of locals submitted public comments in support of Degenhard and Fink. Comments focused on Degenhard’s status as a Western graduate, and how management of the county’s remote properties preserves the environment and creates local jobs. The county has indirectly supported Campfire through the ICELab, funded in part by local marketing district taxes.
PACT Outdoors founders Jake Thomas, Noah Schum and Tanner Whiteford and the Tourism and Prosperity Partnership’s (TAPP) board president Bill Ronai and executive director John Norton all submitted comments. TAPP is a county board tasked with growing lodging revenues and promoting sustainable tourism in the valley.
“If our county would like to increase the number of high paying jobs here, the elected officials and staff will need to be fair and consistent with those investing in improvements to the county,” former ICELab Executive Director David Assad wrote to the BOA.
“The local government will need to be trusted to find ways to say ‘yes’ when property owners and local companies are looking to increase funds coming into the county.”
One ongoing, one settled Fink also has a lawsuit regarding his property’s off-grid septic system, which is now sitting in the Colorado Court of Appeals (See related story in a May 15 edition of the Times). The county sent Fink a septic system violation letter at the end of 2023, stating that the current septic permit was inadequate for the home’s advertised use for 12 occupants. The letter asked Fink to adjust the listing to no more than six people.
The county also rescinded the home’s certificate of occupancy — forcing him to close the cabin right away, just weeks before it
Fink)
was set to open for the 2023-24 winter season — after officials saw unvented gas heating appliances on the property’s website. The department later reinstated the certificate, after the appliances had been removed, but the result was $68,000 lost in just booking fees, according to the court complaint.
Fink later sued the county, claiming it “exceeded its jurisdiction and abused its discretion” in using the septic system regulation to limit occupancy in his home. The lawsuit was later dismissed in Gunnison District Court, but Fink “had no choice” but to appeal it again. He stated in an email to the Times that he is currently unable to use the property with his entire seven-person family, as the county's compliance order prohibits even personal use of the home for more than six people.
“The County hopes that the property owner will come into compliance with septic regulations,” Deputy County Attorney San Filippo-Rosser wrote.
McCloud also made a number of Colorado Open Records Act (CORA) requests regarding his property. The county produced thousands of pages of internal records, but withheld others under the deliberative process exemption and attorney-client privilege.
McCloud challenged the withholding, but District Court Judge Kellie Starritt agreed with county staff and found that the 45 records consisted mostly of emails “soliciting ideas and comments” about the possible code violations, she wrote in a Sept. 30 order. She found that McCloud’s need for the records “does not outweigh the County’s interest in confidentiality,” and staff’s request to restrict the records was granted.
(Abby Harrison can be contacted at 970.641.1414 or abby@ gunnisontimes.com.)
The 3,000-square-foot home lies in a meadow in Washington Gulch. (Courtesy Drew
Lake Fork Bridge. Crews will also begin to remove the temporary work deck from below the structure. Once that’s gone, more weight can be loaded onto the bridge.
“We're still limited by the weight loading on the bridge,” said CDOT Region 3 Director Jason Smith in an Oct. 14 briefing. “We want to be cautious until everything is complete.”
Traffic restrictions across the Lake Fork Bridge, a few miles west and about three weeks behind the middle bridge in repairs, will remain the same. Lake Fork is open to all legal loads, with flaggers directing traffic from 6 a.m. to 11:30 p.m. all week. Crews are about 50% done installing steel plates on the structure.
Kiewit hopes to finish structural repairs on the Lake Fork Bridge by mid-November, but will lay primer and paint on the structure through December.
The goal is to remove the platform underneath the bridge — increasing the weight load — and open it to two-way traffic just before Christmas, said Kiewit project manager Jason Proskovec.
The middle bridge opening to all traffic will mean the end of pilot operations on County Road 26. The county road will remain open to travel and can continue to be used as a local
alternate route, weather permitting. Early next week, Gunnison County Public Works crews intend to remove the barriers restricting traffic across County Road 25, returning it to “normal” use, said Assistant County Manager for Public Works Martin Schmidt.
“Getting off CR 26 is just huge before the snow starts flying
“We’re still limited by the weight loading on the bridge. We want to be cautious until everything is complete.”
Jason Smith CDOT Region 3 director
needed reinforcement. Kiewit was able to open the middle bridge to more weight as it bolted steel plates onto the bottom of the bridge.
During the first phase of repair, crews installed four, 9,000 pound steel plates to the areas that posed an “imminent” risk to the bridge’s structure. The second phase introduced smaller steel plates. Crews still have to bolt some final steel onto the middle bridge, but opening it to all traffic is the “last major milestone” to restoring the bridge back to normal use, the agency stated in a recent update.
Kiewit will continue to work at night, but expects to return next spring crews for final restoration work. In that case, the bridge would have some nighttime lane closures.
“Hopefully you won't even know we're there,” Proskovec said.
(Abby Harrison can be contacted at 970.641.1414 or abby@ gunnisontimes.com.)
here,” Proskovec said. “[It’s] just a great deal of teamwork and problem solving and a ton of hard work to get to this point.”
The middle bridge closed in mid-April of this year after engineers discovered cracks in the bridge’s steel. Continued inspections over the following months revealed more areas in the structure of the bridge that
the time. When I walk downtown, go to a coffee shop or run my errands, I see and interact with so many people I know. I can’t get through the grocery store without a fun conversation with someone.
When I show up to the First Friday Art Walk, or Sundays@ Six, the Bilingual Bingo Night at the library, the chamber music events, the GHS varsity soccer game or any other event in town I feel an overwhelming sense of community. It’s why my family chooses to make Gunnison Valley our home.
You don’t get community because of who you elect, you build community every day with every action, every kind word and everything you show up for. If Mr. Bathje feels like there is no community here, perhaps he is not showing up enough.
I am voting for Jonathan Houck because he shows up for our community. I continually see Jonathan at fundraising events, trail work days, school sports events, farmers markets and yes, even at the grocery store. He always has a smile, he shows that he has time to listen, and he truly cares about what we, his community members and neighbors, want.
Houck is a community builder and a good neighbor, and I trust him to help guide our community forward.
Gail Sovick Gunnison
Dig deep for what is real
Editor:
Power is seductive and can generate toxic cruelty. When politicians deceive, disrupt and deny to gain or stay in power, they show us their lack of integrity and their weakness — never strength.
Strengthen embodies a moral force and nurtures, protects and encourages the best in us, rather than the worst. Using force, rape, threats, fear, misinformation, disinformation, lies and putdowns of any kind creates weakness and subjugation.
Ask yourself, “Who does that?” Really who does that?
Power is stabilizing and can generate life-affirming help for people. When leaders authentically work, encourage others and open to the voting public any “can of worms” of our worst elements such as Project 2025, they show us how accurate information and digging deep for what is real empowers each of us. Real strength, affirmative power and genuine advocacy help us gain and keep our confidence, worth, potential and opportunity to “... not just get by, but to thrive!” We know friends, relatives, neighbors, visitors, mentors and supporters with those qualities. Some have become leaders helping many people. Ask yourself, “Who is that?” Really, who in your life is that, either locally, nationally or even globally?”
As you vote, or not vote, you basically chose to live. Will it be
for seductive power and eviscerating chaos, or will you vote on Nov. 5 for authentic strength and stabilizing leadership?
Barbara Sibley Gunnison County
Conservatives, get out and vote
Editor:
In a few weeks we will decide the course of our nation. Many think we’re turning a corner that we can’t come back from. Socialism is becoming more attractive to our youth, and the United Nations has received the allegiance of world leaders who have recently signed and pledged their fealty to their “Pact for the Future.” This a movement that disturbingly seeks to transform the world into “global governance” as one of its goals, and will require subservience to unelected leaders.
Here in the U.S. we navigate illegal immigration, and watch as many are not just given government plane tickets, housing and money to the tune of millions of our taxpayer dollars, but are fast tracked into being citizens who can already vote. Yet so many will still support Kamala Harris who got the nomination without a single vote. Is it because she is a woman, or because they have such disgust for Donald Trump, and bought into the rhetoric over the years from a biased mainstream media?
Most can see that we’re a nation deeply divided. It’s not even about differing political parties anymore, but about ideologies. One side feels that book banning is wrong, but that censorship of anything that seems like ‘hate speech” is justifiable. Freedom is great, but often one person’s freedom “to choose” often infringes on another. Parental rights are becoming more challenged.
“Advancements” in the acceptance of the LGBTQ community often clashes with a family’s religious convictions, especially when drag queens are inspiring our kids, or a child is removed from the home that is determined not to be “gender affirming” only to be physically and chemically altered at an age when they can’t even drive a car or vote.
Women’s rights were once something to be championed, yet now biological men have recently dominated in women’s sports creating unfair advantages. DEI policies are often required which began a forced reprogramming of employees. Re-education classes teach that only white people can be considered “racist,” and need training on how to be repentant. Our history is being rewritten. Anti-American sentiment causes us to watch helplessly as many that have nothing but contempt for our nation burn our flag and chant “Death to America,” yet occupy our cities and influence our local governments and schools.
At some point it should become evident that there is an agenda at work to change the
face of our country. It seems to filter down from higher places and necessitates the retraining of the masses to be more “woke.”
All this while patriots who want to see Americans come first, to focus on our problems here at home rather than wars abroad, are labeled by our leaders as dangerous extremists. Ironically these are conservatives who generally lean on traditional values, strong families, limited government, justice and faith, the sanctity of life, parental authority and the rule of law rather than just flowing with the changing moral standards that currently influence our culture. These things, among others, should encourage conservatives to get out and vote.
Michelle Duft Gunnison
Curry for HD58
Editor:
We will be voting for Kathleen Curry for State House of Representatives District 58. Kathleen served as the state representative for Gunnison County previously and worked tirelessly to protect Western Slope water resources for our future use by agricultural, recreational and environmental needs. Sending her back to Denver to continue this work is even more critical now with increasing demands from the Colorado Front Range and Lower Basin states on the Colorado River.
Besides her extensive knowledge on water issues, Kathleen knows firsthand the difficulties of living and working in a mountain town economy and making ends meet. Dealing with housing shortages for workers, high costs of living, difficulties of making small businesses thrive and the limited funding of both K-12 education and higher education, are difficult problems Kathleen is ready to engage in when elected to the state legislature. We are confident she will work hard on these issues, and others, as a state legislator.
Finally, Kathleen is an honorable person that has proven her ability to work with others who may have different perspectives to create solutions that are best for people that live in rural communities. With the legislature so dominated by Front Range representatives, we need someone like Kathleen Curry to work across the aisle and within her own party to bring legislative results that benefit Western Slope communities.
Please join us in voting for Kathleen Curry, House District 58 State Representative.
Angelo and Tracy Archuleta Gunnison
It’s time for a change
Editor:
So many business owners, contractors, homeowners and citizens struggle in this com -
munity due to policies, fees and regulations that our county commissioners have pushed on us for many years.
The current two incumbents said they wouldn’t welcome the wolves into our hills and then one turned around and joined the committee to bring the wolves. Can he be trusted again? It’s just one of many things they have backtracked on.
Vote for Lisa Henry and Steve Bathje. They have been longtime residents in this community. Bathje has a business he has run for many years and actually lives in the county, not the city. Henry is one of the hardest-working people I have ever met. She has run her own business for many years now. She also works full-time at a local business and has worked for many businesses in the past to help support her family. If you haven’t worked with Henry, or seen her in action, she is one of the hardest workers I know. She will get the job done and will represent our community, not the Front Range politics that are being pushed.
She truly cares about the well-being of our community, as does Bathje. They both will do a fair job, use common sense and work hard to improve our community or the better of the people who live here. Vote for Lisa Henry and Steve Bathje to be our county commissioners.
Tom Warren Gunnison County
We’re in this together
Editor: I’m writing to endorse Liz Smith for county commissioner in the upcoming general election. I’ve worked closely with Liz over the past 18 months and am quite impressed with her work ethic, compassion and commitment to doing the right thing for Gunnison County. Together, we were part of the Gunnison Cultural Connection and I grew to appreciate her understanding of the diverse nature of our community, its economy and the need to deliberately grow a future within which prosperity is a tide that lifts all boats. We’re in this together.
Liz has proven to be astute in grasping the complexity of the rural, beautiful, challenging, dynamic and exceptional place I’ve called home since 1991. Hard working, check. Dedication to explore where hard work can take us for the sake of a future that benefits all of Gunnison County, double check. I encourage readers to vote for Liz in the upcoming election. Thank you!
Paul Duba Gunnison
Voting no on library
Editor:
Let me get this straight. Crested Butte South wants a mill levy for its new library? Apparently the five-minute
drive to the Old Rock Library is too much.
This is the same county (Gunnison, right?) that raided its parks and recreation fund to pay for road repair. The very one thing that made this county special. I'm all for the power of the written word. But if you can't pay for road repair without raiding the funds previously dedicated for what makes this valley unique and special maybe you don't need a bougie new library and instead just need to subscribe to Amazon Prime for the delivery discount … rather than having the rest of us pay for your library discount. I for one will be voting "no" on this initiative.
Robert Brown Gunnison
Pillars of stability
Editor:
The ripple effects of the pandemic continue to reverberate within our valley. The impacts were many for many and, at a minimum, slight for us all. The dynamics we operate and live in today are driving different conversations and priorities, both within and outside of the valley.
And though the changes in the last four years continue to be felt and seen across our society, there remain many pillars of stability and hope for a brighter future. Two of these pillars are Liz Smith and Jonathan Houck. They've worked tirelessly to steer the boat that suddenly went upside down during the pandemic, and used the well-being and safety of our community as their guiding compass.
They've driven state-level change to redirect revenues from visitor spending to direly needed causes, such as housing and day care. They've liaised at a regional and state level to stand-up a system that will best direct resources to those mostly impacted by the opioid crisis. And they've stood for protection of our public lands in the halls and conference rooms of the White House and U.S. Capitol. These, along with many other achievements, have been carried out in a collaborative, creative and forward-thinking way to ensure the needs of those of us fortunate enough to call the Gunnison Valley home reap the benefits of local, regional, state and federal action.
Please join me in supporting Liz Smith and Jonathan Houck for the Board of County Commissioners.
Plata Gunnison
Diego
Water plant from
Cost estimates for the first three parts of the multi-phase project near $50 million. So far, the city has received close to $5.2 million in grant dollars for preconstruction planning, design and construction. Roughly 30% of the design work for the first phase (projects 1-3) will be complete by the end of 2024 and will make the city eligible for additional grant dollars.
A recent WaterSmart grant from the Bureau of Reclamation — designed to fund protections centered on creating adequate and safe water supplies in the face of drought — and the Colorado Department of Local Affairs, will pay for the remainder of the design work next year.
During a regular city council meeting on Oct. 8, Public Works Director David Gardner gave councilors an update on project 1. The city plans to pull untreated water directly from the Gunnison River under an existing senior water right it is not currently using, and from a new set of wells on the Van Tuyl property. While it is still unclear how much of the plant’s cost residents will have to cover, a recent tweak to the design is expected to lower the cost of this phase. Project 1 originally included the construction of an “infiltration gallery,” a perforated pipe that acts like a shallow, horizontal water well. A large boring machine is often used to feed piping into a cavity under-
ground, similar to an electric conduit, and then backfill the area with gravel.
But a recent engineering report, finished in September, states that an infiltration gallery is “not recommended” due to a low anticipated water yield. The city desired at least 1,000 gallons per minute, but based on a test, it may only yield 200. Gardner also noted significant amounts of variation in the underground geology of the area, along with the evidence of iron and manganese in the water, which are expensive to treat.
The piping would have to be twice as long as expected, or placed deeper to get the type of water the city is looking for, he said.
“The math just doesn’t add up,” Gardner said.
In its place, the city is now planning to pull water from a “river intake” system, a portion of which will be buried into the bank of the river. The natural gravel present will filter the water before it enters a pipe and is eventually pumped to the plant for treatment. Gunnison County uses a similar system system at Dos Rios. It is expected to be less invasive because it will not require trenching at Van Tuyl. The cost of a river intake system is a third of an infiltration gallery, saving roughly $1 million.
Councilor Matt Schwartz asked why the city originally wanted an infiltration gallery knowing it was more costly.
“We probably won't get as much out of the [riverbed] fil -
CINTRON PAINTING
Phone and Internet Discounts Available to CenturyLink Customers
The Colorado Public Utilities Commission designated CenturyLink as an Eligible Telecommunications Carrier within its service area for universal service purposes. CenturyLink’s basic local service rates for residential voice lines are $34.00 per month and business services are $53.50 per month. Specific rates will be provided upon request.
tration system as we would have with a well-performed infiltration gallery, but we've got other ways to get water,” Gardner said. “It's going to get us there and it'll be cheaper.”
The city considered an infiltration gallery first because they are less susceptible to what’s happening on the surface of the river, and require less maintenance, City Manager Amanda Wilson told the Times
While the city is aggressively seeking grants to help cover the cost of the treatment plant, water users are already helping absorb some of it. The city’s proposed 2025 budget includes another planned 25% increase in water rates — for the third year in row. Council previously approved these increases at the end of 2022.
The city is conducting an ongoing utility rate study to determine how these costs impact Gunnison ratepayers. As the city works through the design, it is getting a better understanding of its forecasted operational costs, which will influence rates beyond 2025. More discussion will follow once the design is complete next year, Wilson said.
(Bella Biondini can be contacted at 970.641.1414 or bella@ gunnisontimes.com.)
CenturyLink participates in the Lifeline program, which makes residential telephone or qualifying broadband service more affordable to eligible lowincome individuals and families. Eligible customers may qualify for Lifeline discounts of $5.25/month for voice or bundled voice service or $9.25/month for qualifying broadband or broadband bundles. Residents who live on federally recognized Tribal Lands may qualify for additional Tribal benefits if they participate in certain additional federal eligibility programs. The Lifeline discount is available for only one telephone or qualifying broadband service per household, which can be either a wireline or wireless service. Broadband speeds must be at least 25 Mbps download and 3 Mbps upload to qualify.
A household is defined as any individual or group of individuals who live together at the same address and share income and expenses. Services are not transferable, and only eligible consumers may enroll in these programs. Consumers who willfully make false statements to obtain these discounts can be punished by fine or imprisonment and can be barred from these programs.
If you live in a CenturyLink service area, visit https://www.centurylink.com/aboutus/community/ community-development/lifeline.html for additional information about applying for these programs or call 1-800-201-4099 with questions.
A1
The city’s water treatment plant will be built on the Van Tuyl Ranch property. (Photo by Bella Biondini)
Kol Nidre held in Almont
B’nai Butte held its Kol Nidre Yom Kippur services at the Three Rivers Resort pavilion on Friday, Oct. 11. Kol Nidre are the religious services that kick off the Jewish holiday of Yom Kippur, the Day of Atonement and the holiest day in the Jewish calendar. Traditionally, Jews fast from sundown on Friday to sundown on Saturday. It’s a solemn holiday that gives Jewish people the opportunity to reflect on the previous year, purify themselves and their relationships with others and set intentions for the year to come.
This is thriller night
Kids laced up ice skates for a Michael Jackson-themed public skate night at the Jorgensen Ice Rink on Oct. 11. The third and final public skate under the lights event for the fall is scheduled for this Friday, Oct. 18 and will be ‘80s-themed.
(Photos by Jacob Spetzler)
(Photos by Jacob Spetzler)
Dates, locations voters should know
Ballots mailed out this week
Bella Biondini Times Editor
With less than a month to go until Nov. 5, election season is well underway. Ballots will be mailed to Gunnison County residents on Oct. 11 and voters should expect them to arrive in the mail within a week.
Ballot boxes will open midmorning on Wednesday, Oct. 16, followed by Voter Service and Polling Centers (VSPC). Dates, hours and locations can be found online at gunnisoncounty.org/elections, along with sample ballots. A VSPC is a location that has been set up during the election to provide mail-in ballot and voter registration services, offer in-person or ADA accessible voting and to issue replacement ballots.
If residents have not received their ballot by Oct. 21, they should call or stop by the Gunnison County Elections Office at the Blackstock Government Building at 221 N. Wisconsin St. Early, in-person voting begins Oct. 21. In-person
voters will need to show their ID with proof of their Colorado address.
According to Gunnison County clerk and recorder Kathy Simillon, to-date, just over 15,000 residents are registered to vote in the upcoming election. This includes roughly 3,800 Democrats, 2,760 Republicans and 8,200 unaffiliated voters. Another 330 are registered with miscellaneous parties.
Simillion said she is expecting a high voter turnout this year due to the presidential election.
“We are ready [and] everything is in place for a safe and secure election,” Simillion wrote in an email. “Please vote your ballot and get it in as soon as you possibly can.”
Colorado law now allows for same-day voter registration.
For voters registering for the first time or changing precincts, applications can be filled out in the county clerk's office. Ballots are not forwardable, so residents should update any changes of address at govotecolorado. gov.
Every registered voter will receive a ballot in the mail. To receive a ballot in the mail,
residents need to register or change their mailing address by Monday, Oct. 28. Mail-in ballots must be received by the county clerk and recorder no later than 7 p.m. on Election Day.
The best option for voters is to drop off ballots at one of the five designated county dropboxes scattered throughout Gunnison and Crested Butte. Those who want to track the status of their mailed ballot, can sign up for “BallotTrax”at ballottrax.coloradosos.gov.
(Bella Biondini can be contacted at 970.641.1414 or bella@ gunnisontimes.com.)
Voter Service and Polling Centers
Blackstock Government Center — 221 N. Wisconsin St., Gunnison Oct. 16-18, 8 a.m. to 5 p.m. Oct. 21-Nov. 1, 8 a.m. to 5 p.m. Election Day, 7 a.m. to 7 p.m.
Blackstock parking lot tent — 221 N. Wisconsin St., Gunnison Monday through Friday Oct. 21-Nov. 1, 8 a.m. to 5 p.m. Election Day, 7 a.m. to 7 p.m.
Western Colorado University Student Center — 1 Western Way, Gunnison Nov. 4, 8 a.m. to 4 p.m. Election Day, 7 a.m. to 7 p.m.
Queen of All Saints Parish Hall — 405 Sopris Ave., Crested Butte Nov. 1, 8 a.m. to 4 p.m. Nov. 4, 8 a.m. to 4 p.m. Election Day, 7 a.m. to 7 p.m.
Dropboxes (open now)
Blackstock Government Center, located on the south end of the parking lot at 221 N. Wisconsin St., Gunnison. Western Colorado University outside the south end of the University Center Crested Butte POA at 61 Teocalli Ave., Crested Butte South Cranks Plaza/Town Hall at 507 Maroon Ave., Crested Butte. Mt. Crested Butte TC-1 Parking at 700 Gothic Road.
2024 local and state ballot issues
The following summary of local and statewide ballot measures
Gunnison County voters are considering this fall was compiled by the Times staff.
The yes or no summaries for the state issues were drafted by the Colorado League of Women Voters and republished with permission. The Times used excerpts from the 2024 State Ballot Information Booklet or “Blue Book,” issued by the Legislative Council of the Colorado General Assembly, to create summaries for each of the 14 state initiatives. To read more in-depth overviews of
each measure, visit leg.colorado. gov/publications/2024-bluebook-english.
LOCAL ISSUES
Gunnison County Library District Ballot Issue 6A - A 1.1 mill levy increase to support expanded library services, new Crested Butte South library.
The Gunnison County Library District is seeking a property tax increase of 1.1 mills to maintain and expand library services. If approved, the increase amounts
to an additional $1.25 million in 2025. This includes a new library in Crested Butte South, more programming for library users, expanded digital content and hours of operation. The new library would offer indoor and outdoor space, free public meeting rooms, event spaces and a children's library. It would be powered by onsite geothermal and solar energy. A 1.1 mill increase translates to $7 per year for every $100,000 of actual residential value.
YES - Increase property taxes by
1.1 mills, to a total of 3 mills, starting Jan. 1, 2025.
NO - Retain district’s current property tax rate of 1.9 mills.
Town of Mt. Crested Butte Ballot Issue 2A - Increase the STR excise tax to 4.9%
The Town of Mt. Crested Butte is requesting a 2% increase to the town’s existing excise tax, from 2.9% to 4.9%, starting on Jan. 1 2025. The tax increase is expected to generate an additional $1.1 million in 2025. This is a tax charged
to people renting short-term rental properties (STRs). To be an STR, the rental must be for 30 days or less. The tax revenues are slated for “the creation and retention of critical unmet community housing needs.”
YES - Increases the Town of Mt. Crested Butte’s STR excise tax to 4.9%.
NO - The Town of Mt. Crested Butte’s excise tax remains at 2.9%.
Montrose School District
RE-1J Ballot Issue 5A - School bond for new Montrose High School
The Montrose County School District is seeking an increase in property taxes to support a $198 million bond this fall, with a repayment cost of no more than $395 million. This pans out to an annual district tax increase of $16.7 million. The projected tax impact will be $9 per month per $100,000 of a home’s actual value, according to the district. A small portion of Gunnison County voters, primarily in the Cimmaron area, will see Montrose School District’s bond issue on their ballots because those residents live within the district’s boundaries.
The bond is meant to cover the construction of a new high school on existing school property. The building would have upgraded security, a main entry and lobby on Rio Grande Avenue, and additional space classrooms, science labs and programming for vocational, technology and visual and performing arts.
The bond would also cover expanded parking, and the relocation of the existing athletic stadium, fields and courts. The existing high school building would be demolished while preserving the Lloyd McMillan Gym for school and community use.
YES - Increase property taxes to support a $198 million bond for construction of a new high school.
NO - The district does not issue bonds and property taxes do not increase.
STATE ISSUES
Amendement G - Modify Property Tax Exemption for Veterans with Disabilities
Colorado’s homestead exemption reduces the property taxes of qualified homeowners by exempting 50% of the first $200,000 of a home’s value. Qualified individuals include Colorado residents that are 65 or older who have lived in their home for at least 10 years, veterans with a permanent servicerelated injury and surviving spouses of U.S. Armed Forces service members who died in the line of duty. In 2023, roughly 285,000 seniors claimed homestead exemptions, with an average tax reduction of $590.
YES - Expands the existing homestead exemption to include veterans whose disability is rated as making them unemployable.
NO - Means the existing homestead exemption remains available only to veterans whose disability is rated 100% permanent and total.
Amendment H - Judicial Discipline Procedures and
Confidentiality
The Commission on Judicial Misconduct is an independent agency charged with handling allegations of misconduct against judges. Members of the Commission are appointed by the Colorado Supreme Court and the governor.
YES - Creates an independent adjudicative board made up of citizens, lawyers and judges to conduct judicial misconduct hearings and impose disciplinary actions, and allows more information to be shared earlier with the public.
NO - Means that a select panel of judges will continue to conduct judicial misconduct hearings and recommend disciplinary actions, and cases remain confidential unless public sanctions are issued at the end of the process.
Amendment IConstitutional Bail Exception for First Degree Murder
In most circumstances, under Colorado law, a person accused of a crime has the right to bail out of county jail while awaiting a trial. One of the exceptions was for offenses for which the death penalty may be sought, which sometimes includes first degree murder. But in 2020, Colorado abolished the death penalty. As a result, there was no longer an exception to the bail requirement for first degree
murder, and differing interpretations emerged on where judges must set bail in these kinds of cases. Last year, the Supreme Court stepped in and ruled that judges cannot deny bail to those accused of first degree murder.
YES - Allows judges to deny bail to a person charged with first degree murder when the judge determines that the proof is evident or presumption is great that the person committed the crime.
NO - Requires judges to set bail for all persons charged with first degree murder.
Amendment J - Repealing the Definition of Marriage in the Constitution
Colorado’s constitution defines a “valid” marriage as the union between a man and a woman. But same-sex marriage is legal because of court rulings that have declared federal and state bans on same-sax marriage to be unconstitutional. In the United States, all 50 states are required to recognize same-sex marriages. While this ballot does not impact the ability of couples to marry, if the Supreme Court overturned its previous rulings, the decisions around the legality of same-sex marriage would revert to each state.
YES - Repeals language in the Colorado Constitution that defines a valid marriage as a
union between one man and one woman.
NO - Maintains the current language in the Colorado Constitution that defines a valid marriage as a union between one man and one woman.
Amendment K - Modify Constitutional Election Deadlines
Colorado residents can collect signatures and file petitions to propose changes to state law and to challenge laws passed by the legislature. The deadline to file these petitions is three months before the general election. The same is true for judges seeking another term. If passed, this amendment would move the deadline one week earlier. Amendment K also moves the deadline to publish ballot measure content in newspapers 30 days earlier.
YES - Results in earlier deadlines for certain election filings and the publication of ballot measures in newspapers.
NO - Maintains current constitutional deadlines for election filings and the publication of ballot measures in newspapers.
Amendment 79Constitutional Right to Abortion
Under Colorado law, a preg-
continued on A13
nancy can be terminated at any time. This amendment makes abortion a constitutional right in Colorado and removes an existing ban on the use of public funds for abortion services.
Amendment 79 would allow abortion to be a covered service under health insurance plans through Medicaid and state and local governments. The measure does not guarantee this, and decisions would be handled by the legislature and individual local governments in the future.
YES - Places the right to abortion in the Colorado Constitution and repeals the current ban on state and local funding for abortion services.
NO - Continues the ban on state and local funding for abortion services and maintains the authority of the state legislature to determine the legality of abortion in the state.
Amendment 80Constitutional Right to School Choice
Amendment 80 would enshrine the “right to school choice” in the Colorado Constitution. In Colorado, students may attend any public school for free, even if they do not live in the school district. Public schools include neighborhood schools, charter schools and some online schools. Parents are also allowed to choose non-public education options such as private or home schools. The measure results in no immediate change to state law, but if passed, may affect future policies about school choice and could result in redirecting funding from public schools to private and home schools.
YES - Creates a constitutionally protected right to school choice for K-12 children and their parents, and specifies that school choice includes public, private, homeschool, and any future innovations in education.
NO - Maintains the current system of school choice in state law.
In 2019, voters approved Proposition JJ, legalizing sports betting in Colorado. It also allowed the state to collect up to $29 million annually in tax revenue from sports betting. Tax revenue exceeded the cap in the most recent state budget and is expected to increase in the coming years.
YES - Allows the state to keep and spend more money for water conservation projects (as outlined in the Colorado Water Plan) when sports betting tax revenue is collected above the amount previously approved by voters.
NO - Means the state will pay refunds to casinos and sports betting operators when sports
betting tax revenue is greater than the amount previously approved by voters.
Proposition KK - Firearms and Ammunition Excise Tax
For more than 100 years, the federal government has levied an excise tax on the retail sales of firearms and ammunition by manufacturers and exporters. This money is used to fund wildlife conservation projects and hunting programs. In Colorado, retail sales of guns, parts and ammunition are also subject to state and local sales tax. If passed, firearm dealers, manufacturers and ammunition sellers would pay the new 6.5% tax. The measure is expected to generate up to $39 million annually.
YES - Creates a new tax on firearms, firearm parts, and ammunition, and uses the revenue for crime victim services, mental health services for veterans and youth, and school safety programs.
NO - The state’s taxation of firearms and ammunition will not change.
Proposition 127 - Prohibit Bobcat, Lynx, and Mountain Lion Hunting
Colorado Parks and Wildlife (CPW) administers regulations for hunting, fishing and trapping in Colorado. All species are managed differently. Neither mountain lions or bobcats are classified as threatened in the state, while the lynx is listed as endangered. Hunting lynx, which were reintroduced to Colorado in 1999, remains illegal under state and federal law. Proposition 127 would define and prohibit trophy hunting as “intentionally killing, wounding, pursuing, or entrapping a mountain lion, bobcat, or lynx; or discharging or releasing any deadly weapon at a mountain lion, bobcat, or lynx.”
YES - Makes it illegal to hunt bobcats, lynx, and mountain lions in Colorado.
NO - Continues to allow the hunting of bobcats and mountain lions, as it is currently regulated by the state. Hunting lynx would remain illegal.
Proposition 128 - Parole Eligibility for Crimes of Violence
Parole is a system used to supervise convicted people after they are released from prison. It is estimated that 220 people in Colorado are sentenced to prison for violent crimes (such as murder, sexual assault, aggravated robbery, kidnapping and arson) each year. They serve an average of 23 years in prison, a number that would increase if Prop. 128 passed.
YES - Requires a person convicted of certain crimes of violence to serve at least 85% of their sentence in prison before being eligible for discretionary parole or earned time reductions, and makes a person convicted of a third or subsequent-
Hi, I am Kathleen Curry, candidate for the Colorado State House, District 58.
I am running because I care about the West Slope and want our voice to be heard in Denve
I have a background in water management and my family ranches in Gunnison
When I am elected I plan to bring legislation to help communities on the West Slope deal with funding for drinking water and wastewater treatment costs in addition to providing more funding to repair aging ag infrastructure
I also plan to run a bill to provide additional support for ranchers faced with wolf reintroduction and would like to pursue legislation that would incentivize affordable housing construction
As your next representative, I will be in a position to make progress on the important issues impacting the eight counties in the district and the West Slope
I would be honored to get your vote this November.
Paid for by
Elect Steve Bathje
ELECT KATHLEEN CURRY FOR COLORADO HOUSE DISTRICT 58 THIS NOVEMBER
EVEN DOGS & CATS
Republican gubernatorial nominee Heidi Ganahl
Dumb Friends League, ASPCA, HSUS, local humane societies AND COUNTLESS OTHERS FROM ALL POLITICAL STRIPES
Paid for by the Vet Care Coalition
for earned time or discretionary parole.
NO - Keeps the current requirement that a person convicted of certain crimes of violence serve 75% of their sentence in prison before being eligible for discretionary parole, minus earned time for progressing in personal, professional or educational programs
Proposition 129Establishing Veterinary Professional Associates
Licensed veterinarians, registered vet technicians and vet tech specialists, along with other qualified personnel, can provide animal care in Colorado. The Colorado State Board of Veterinary Medicine regulates these three licensed professions and sets rules for practice. But many residents struggle to get veterinary care for their animals and pets, especially in rural areas where it is not uncommon for clinics to be short staffed. While Prop. 129 may generate more career opportunities for vets, creating a new and “untested” profession could increase risks to animals.
YES - Establishes the new regulated profession of “veterinary professional associate” as a provider of veterinary care, alongside veterinarians, veterinary technicians and veterinary technician specialists.
NO - Allows only veterinarians, veterinary technicians, and veterinary technician specialists to be regulated providers of veterinary care in Colorado.
Proposition 130 - Funding for
Law Enforcement
Local law enforcement agencies are funded through county and city budgets. If passed, Prop. 130 would increase annual pay for officers, provide onehiring and recruitment bonuses and may allow agencies to hire additional officers to improve recruitment and retention. This would be achieved by directing the legislature to increase funding to the Colorado State Patrol, which would then redistribute
the money to local agencies.
YES - Directs the state to provide $350 million in additional funding to local law enforcement agencies to improve officer recruitment and retention, and requires the state to provide a one-time $1 million death benefit to the family of each state and local law enforcement officer killed in the line of duty.
NO - Continues current levels of funding for local law enforcement agencies, and families of law enforcement officers killed in the line of duty will continue to receive existing benefits provided by current law.
Proposition 131Establishing All-Candidate Primary and Ranked Choice Voting General Elections
In Colorado, the state conducts primary elections to determine a party’s nominee for a particular office and voters affiliated with a political party can only cast a ballot for candidates of that party. Proposition 131 would create a single, “allcandidate” primary election for certain state and federal offices, where the top four candidates advance to the general election. Ranked voting could possibly “better reflect the will of the voters.” But its complexity, both for voters filling out ballots and when it comes time to tally the results, could lead to questions about whether the results are fair.
YES - Establishes an all-candidate primary for all voters regardless of their political party for certain offices and advances the top four candidates to a general election where voters rank the candidates in order of preference, once certain conditions in state law are met.
NO - Continues the existing primary election system and the current method of selecting candidates and counting votes at general elections.
Ballot drop boxes outside the Blackstock Government Center were uncovered to receive ballots on Oct. 16.(Photo by Mariel Wiley)
The best of the Times candidate forum
Bella Biondini Times Editor
Abby Harrison Times Staff Writer
The Times organized a candidate forum on Oct. 14, held in the Gunnison Arts Center’s newly renovated Black Box Theater. County commissioner challengers Lisa Henry and Steve Bathje joined incumbents Liz Smith and Jonathan Houck for a series of 10 questions drafted by the Times newsroom, with input from readers.
The questions covered the themes that are most prevalent in the Gunnison Valley, including affordable housing, county spending, state ballot issues, tourism initiatives and land use. The candidates also posed questions to each other, and answered a “lightning” round of yes or no questions.
Each commissioner will serve a four-year term. Smith faces Henry in District 1, and Houck faces Bathje in District 2. County commissioner Laura Puckett Daniels, who represents District 3, was elected in 2022 and will serve until the fall of 2026.
Here are some of the candidate’s best answers from the forum:
(Editor's note: These answers have been edited for length and clarity)
Liz Smith. Smith is running for her second term, and has served as a Gunnison County commissioner since 2020. She often acts as the county’s liaison on child care and housing issues, wildlife conservation, opioid settlement dollars and more.
1. Construction industry professionals often complain that the cost of building in the county is excessive, in part because of costly, and some say unnecessary, regulatory requirements. How do you respond to this criticism?
I think that the land use resolution really reflects the values of the community. We've heard again and again that people do appreciate the viewsheds up and down the corridor. This has come up even recently with our Whetstone housing project. And it does make sense, for climate and work and life quality reasons, to have density and hous-
ing built around the municipalities. We want to make it easier for people to have assurance, and to know what they can build and where, and streamline that process. I do think that it is complicated for a lot of reasons, because people value the way that this community is and that it doesn't look like Saguache or Montrose counties. We do need to contemplate things like the Gunnison sage-grouse, of which we have over 85% of the remaining population of the threatened species. We have a very particular habitat prioritization tool that I think is responsible when it comes to the future of agriculture and recreation. We have found planning that is reflected through the land use resolution can make it more affordable for people to build because they're building where it makes sense and where it's easier to get to work, and is connected to public transportation.
[In terms of] wildgame migration corridors, we do have to interface with Colorado Parks and Wildlife to know where a house should be able to go or is it disruptive to the very life and the wildlife that we really appreciate here.
2. The local marketing district, or lodging tax was passed by voters to promote tourism and economic development. It has been amended twice, most recently to allow up to 40%
of the revenue to be spent on child care services for the workforce and affordable housing projects. The BOCC is also the board of the local marketing district, and as such approves the budget each year. Share your thoughts on the balance between promoting tourism on one hand and safeguarding the community’s quality of life on the other.
TAPP [Tourism and Prosperity Partnership] has been a really excellent collaborator, flexible and nimble. They did it during Covid in 2020, pivoting their marketing. And they did it with the bridge this summer. They did market to people that we are open, here's how you can get here. When it comes to the balance, this isn't just a pot of money that can be used for anything. It was very specifically laid out to the voters. People said, ‘Yes, we want up to 40% to be used for these other critical infrastructure needs without which we cannot welcome our guests in a healthy way.’ Early childhood education is the workforce that supports the workforce. I would say the same about RTA. These things are essential for us to be able to have a thriving tourism economy. When TAPP pivoted in 2020, a lot of their ads were an apology. They were saying, ‘Please be patient because of the lack of staff and workforce,’ and so the bal-
ance does need to be there. This new tool and expanded allowable uses does give us that balance.
1. Construction industry professionals often complain that the cost of building in the county is excessive, in part because of costly, and some say unnecessary, regulatory requirements. How do you respond to this criticism?
I printed off the land use resolution, it’s 374 pages long. There’s a lot in there that really doesn’t make sense. I have listened to people who have been
Lisa Henry. Henry is a small business owner in Gunnison and an assistant manager at the Ol’ Miner Steakhouse. She also ran for a seat on the Gunnison Watershed School District school board in the fall of 2023. She has lived in the valley for 39 years.
(Photos by Jacob Spetzler)
required to do a view study, only to have someone come along after them after they paid for this view study, to have a house built in front of them. Then they look into the back of someone’s house. How do you explain that to someone? I also had someone who was selling their land because with permits and fees [cost] almost $374,000 before they put a board or a foundation in the ground. Gunnison County seems to be a hard county to build in. I know people that move and look for land in Saguache County [because it’s] easier to build a house there. It becomes more affordable for them to build there. So looking at that, you have to bring in those professionals who are making those complaints, and find out if they have ideas that maybe you didn’t look at before. And as a county commissioner, I’m willing to listen and bring those people in so that you’re working with the people who are doing the work.
2. Aside from big projects such as Whetstone, Sawtooth and others, what are some other ideas you support for dealing with the valley’s housing crisis? If possible, please cite local or regional examples in your answer. You need to start where the most need is. We have a group of people just north of town who are in fear of losing their housing — 57 units because the land is being sold. And they want to buy it. We seem to be getting rid of a lot of affordable housing. Developers are coming in, they’re taking those trailers away. And yes, sometimes affordable housing means a single-wide trailer. I do remember my husband and I, when we were first starting out, had to move from somewhere because it was all electric and we couldn’t afford it. And yep, I have raised my children in a singlewide trailer. Was I always excited about that? No, not in the least, but we made it work. You have to be able to afford to live and work here and not be so stressed out about ‘Can you afford it?’ or ‘Can you make it work?’ We [assume] that these households are two incomes. There are a lot of people with small children where that’s not the case. In all reality, it’s looking at what we can do to help the people on the ground right now, and know that we care about the plight that they’re under and find them affordable housing. Find a way to make a way. And being a problem solver and a leader, you have to be able to do that.
Jonathan Houck. Houck is running for his fourth term, and has served as a Gunnison County commissioner since 2012. Prior to his time as a commissioner, he served as the mayor of Gunnison
and on the city council. He is a Western Colorado University graduate.
1. Aside from big projects such as Whetstone, Sawtooth and others, what are some other ideas you support for dealing with the valley’s housing crisis? If possible, please cite local or regional examples in your answer.
For Paintbrush, we were able to get an ironclad, legal binding guarantee that 67 of those 76 units are deed restricted. So for an investment of under half a million dollars, we created 67 units, working with the private side, to create housing. Now let's take a look at Sawtooth, which is going up next to the fairgrounds. We got $8.1 million in Covidrelief funds. Most counties took that and sprinkled it around like pixie dust, trying to fix lots of little problems. We found a way to invest that money in a way to make a return for folks. So we took $1 million from the local marketing district, and put that toward workforce housing. It’s deed restricted. [At Sawtooth] residents pay [rents] within that 30% [of their income], and they have to work in Gunnison County. We will start making about a couple hundred thousand dollars a year above what our debt service is. That money is going right back into housing, and as we pay down the mortgage, that's more money into housing. Because as a commissioner, I am not inclined to bring to the people of Gunnison County a ballot measure asking working people to provide money to build workforce housing. Working people aren't the problem, so we're utilizing resources that we bring into the community, turning those around and putting that back out in a way to house people, and generate revenue streams for housing.
2. A perennial challenge facing the Board of County Commissioners is how to fund road and bridge maintenance. What do you think can be done to create a sustainable solution to this problem?
1992 was the last time we raised the gas tax in Colorado, and they did not index it, which means the percent that you pay per gallon in 2024 is the same you paid in 1992. Do you want to see why roads are so good in Utah? In one fell swoop, they raised their gas tax by 25 cents a gallon. Until we raise some of the gas tax in this state, roads are going to be bad. The other thing too, though, is we worked on some formulaic changes. There's a portion of money that we get through these complex calculations. We've been able to start increasing by a couple $100,000 a year, the amount of money that's coming to Gunnison County, and that will continue through 2026. But we're also looking for longer-lasting treatments. How can we do things on our county roads here with the money that we have? So some of these subdivisions that have all dirt roads, we're working on some ideas of doing the aprons coming in, and then the rest is dirt. We've been putting money into paving areas that
are unpaved, to make sure that they last and are more durable over time and have the ability to handle heavier amounts of traffic. But we have to remember, there's roads in Marble, Somerset, the Quartz Creek Valley and the Cimarron Country. Gunnison County is one and a half times the size of Delaware. There's a lot of roads in this county. I applaud the staff at Public Works, past and present, that have stretched every dime that they can, as far as they can. But the likelihood that we will probably have to go to the voters and ask for some type of supplemental funding to improve our roads is what's on the horizon. We've checked every box we can to find additional funding.
Steve Bathje. Bathje is the owner of R and R Precision Machining. He is also the president of the Gunnison Sportsmen’s Association and a former MetRec board member.
1. Gunnison County is currently moving ahead with an estimated $130 million public affordable housing project at Whetstone near Crested Butte. Some in the community have
Lightning round
Do you support the Gunnison Library’s current ballot initiative to raise taxes for a new branch library in Crested Butte South?
Liz Smith - yes
Lisa Henry - no
Jonathan Houck - yes
Steve Bathje - no
Do you support Amendment 79 on this year’s ballot, which would place the right to abortion in the Colorado Constitution?
Liz Smith - yes
Lisa Henry - no
Jonathan Houck - yes
Steve Bathje - yes
Do you support Proposition 127 which would outlaw trophy hunting of big cats in Colorado?
Liz Smith - no
Lisa Henry - no
Jonathan Houck - no
Steve Bathje - no
Walmart wants to put a super center in Gunnison County. Yes or no?
Liz Smith - no
Lisa Henry - no
Jonathan Houck - yes
Steve Bathje - yes
Do you support term limits for elected officials?
Liz Smith - no
Lisa Henry - yes
Jonathan Houck - no
Steve Bathje - yes
Should more land in Gunnison County be designated as wilderness area?
Liz Smith - Not beyond GORP
Lisa Henry - no
Jonathan Houck - yes
Steve Bathje - no
Should the number of short-term rentals be limited or restricted by the county in the future?
Liz Smith - yes
Lisa Henry - yes
Jonathan Houck - yes
Steve Bathje - no
Vail’s acquisition of Crested Butte Mountain Resort has been a net positive for the Gunnison Valley. True or false?
Liz Smith - yes
Lisa Henry - no
Jonathan Houck - no
Steve Bathje - no
You’ve won a contest: an all expenses paid vacation to Las Vegas or Moab. Which do you choose?
Liz Smith - Moab
Lisa Henry - Moab
Jonathan Houck - Moab
Steve Bathje - Vegas
November 2024 Ballot Initiatives and Referred Measures
November 2024 Ballot Initiatives and Referred Measures
November 2024 Ballot Initiatives and Referred Measures
November 2024 Ballot Initiatives and Referred Measures
FOR MORE INFORMATION ON THESE STATEWIDE BALLOT ISSUES, GO TO WWW.COLORADODEMOCRATS.ORG
FOR MORE INFORMATION ON THESE STATEWIDE BALLOT ISSUES, GO TO WWW.COLORADODEMOCRATS.ORG
CLICK ON EACH ISSUE LINK FOR FULL DESCRIPTION
FOR MORE INFORMATION ON THESE STATEWIDE BALLOT ISSUES, GO TO WWW.COLORADODEMOCRATS.ORG
CLICK ON EACH ISSUE LINK FOR FULL DESCRIPTION
FOR MORE INFORMATION ON THESE STATEWIDE BALLOT ISSUES, GO TO WWW.COLORADODEMOCRATS.ORG
CLICK ON EACH ISSUE LINK FOR FULL DESCRIPTION
CLICK ON EACH ISSUE LINK FOR FULL DESCRIPTION
SUPPORTED BY THE COLORADO DEMOCRATIC PARTY
SUPPORTED BY THE COLORADO DEMOCRATIC PARTY
Amendment 79: Right to Abortion
SUPPORTED BY THE COLORADO DEMOCRATIC PARTY
Amendment 79: Right to Abortion
SUPPORTED BY THE COLORADO DEMOCRATIC PARTY
Amendment 79: Right to Abortion
Amendment G: Modify Property Tax Exemption for Veterans with Disabilities
Amendment 79: Right to Abortion
Amendment G: Modify Property Tax Exemption for Veterans with Disabilities
Amendment G: Modify Property Tax Exemption for Veterans with Disabilities
Amendment G: Modify Property Tax Exemption for Veterans with Disabilities
SUPPORTED BY THE COLORADO DEMOCRATIC PARTY
Amendment H: Judicial Discipline Procedures and Confidentiality
Amendment H: Judicial Discipline Procedures and Confidentiality
Amendment 79: Right to Abortion
Amendment H: Judicial Discipline Procedures and Confidentiality
Amendment I: Constitutional Bail Exception for First Degree Murder
Amendment H: Judicial Discipline Procedures and Confidentiality
Amendment G: Modify Property Tax Exemption for Veterans with Disabilities
Amendment I: Constitutional Bail Exception for First Degree Murder
Amendment I: Constitutional Bail Exception for First Degree Murder
Amendment J: Repealing the Definition of Marriage in the Constitution
Amendment J: Repealing the Definition of Marriage in the Constitution
Amendment I: Constitutional Bail Exception for First Degree Murder
Amendment H: Judicial Discipline Procedures and Confidentiality
Proposition 128: Concerning Eligibility for Parole
Proposition 128: Concerning Eligibility for Parole
Proposition 131: Establishing All-Candidate Primary and Ranked Choice Voting General Elections
Proposition 131: Establishing All-Candidate Primary and Ranked Choice Voting General Elections
Proposition KK: Firearms and Ammunition Excise Tax
Proposition 131: Establishing All-Candidate Primary and Ranked Choice Voting General Elections
Proposition 131: Establishing All-Candidate Primary and Ranked Choice Voting General Elections
NO POSITION TAKEN BY THE COLORADO DEMOCRATIC PARTY
NO POSITION TAKEN BY THE COLORADO DEMOCRATIC PARTY
OPPOSED BY THE COLORADO DEMOCRATIC PARTY
NO POSITION TAKEN BY THE COLORADO DEMOCRATIC PARTY
NO POSITION TAKEN BY THE COLORADO DEMOCRATIC PARTY
Proposition 127: Prohibit Trophy Hunting of Mountain Lions, Lynx, and Bobcats
Amendment 80: School Choice in K-12 Education
Proposition 127: Prohibit Trophy Hunting of Mountain Lions, Lynx, and Bobcats
Proposition 128: Concerning Eligibility for Parole
Proposition 127: Prohibit Trophy Hunting of Mountain Lions, Lynx, and Bobcats
Proposition 129: Establishing Veterinary Professional Associates
Proposition 129: Establishing Veterinary Professional Associates
Proposition 127: Prohibit Trophy Hunting of Mountain Lions, Lynx, and Bobcats
Proposition 131: Establishing All-Candidate Primary and Ranked Choice Voting General Elections
Proposition 130: Funding for Law Enforcement
Proposition 129: Establishing Veterinary Professional Associates
Proposition 129: Establishing Veterinary Professional Associates
Proposition 130: Funding for Law Enforcement
Proposition 130: Funding for Law Enforcement
Proposition 130: Funding for Law Enforcement
LOCAL ISSUES ON THE BALLOT
LOCAL ISSUES ON THE BALLOT
LOCAL ISSUES ON THE BALLOT
LOCAL ISSUES ON THE BALLOT
Ballot Issue 6A: Gunnison County Library District –Mill Levy Increase to maintain and expand library services and facilities
Ballot Issue 6A: Gunnison County Library District –Mill Levy Increase to maintain and expand library services and facilities
NO POSITION TAKEN BY THE COLORADO DEMOCRATIC PARTY
Ballot Issue 6A: Gunnison County Library District –Mill Levy Increase to maintain and expand library services and facilities
Ballot Issue 6A: Gunnison County Library District –Mill Levy Increase to maintain and expand library services and facilities
Proposition 127: Prohibit Trophy Hunting of Mountain Lions, Lynx, and Bobcats
Ballot Issue 2A: Town of Mt. Crested ButteExcise Tax Increase on short-term rentals to support the creation and retention of critical unmet community housing needs
Ballot Issue 2A: Town of Mt. Crested ButteExcise Tax Increase on short-term rentals to support the creation and retention of critical unmet community housing needs
Ballot Issue 2A: Town of Mt. Crested ButteExcise Tax Increase on short-term rentals to support the creation and retention of critical unmet community housing needs
Proposition 129: Establishing Veterinary Professional Associates
Proposition 130: Funding for Law Enforcement
Ballot Issue 2A: Town of Mt. Crested ButteExcise Tax Increase on short-term rentals to support the creation and retention of critical unmet community housing needs
Audience members listened from their seats at the Gunnison Arts Center’s new Black Box Theater.
objected, saying that the project is too expensive and not affordable enough to meet the needs of the local workforce. What do you think about Whetstone and what, if anything, would you do differently?
I'm against this project. Now I'm not saying that we don't need affordable housing. But this is a $130 million project for approximately 400 people. That's over a quarter of a million dollars of your taxpayers money that we're putting into this year. Why isn't Vail involved? The day before the commissioners agreed that they were going to build the Whetstone project, Vail announced that it’s building a whole other Vail Village in Vail. Why aren't they coming to Crested Butte to build? Why don't we say, ‘Hey Vail, [do] you want to come in and build affordable housing? You have enough power, water and sewer. Let's make it look nice on the mountain, and then we can work with them. The other thing is we should not be landlords. That's something the private industry does. And now, we're landlords. And all said, who's going to take care of all the maintenance on this? We're going to have to hire more staff or a maintenance company. Who's going to do the upkeep on it when people move out?
The other thing that you have
to look at — this big question for me — is that they have certain requirements on who can actually move into there and how much they're going to be paying. Do they have to be American citizens? People have called me and asked.
2. We live in a nation that is deeply divided along partisan lines. In what ways do you see this schism manifesting itself in our community, and, if elected, what steps will you take to represent all your constituents, not just those who voted for you?
We are so far divided. It's really sad. When I decided to run, I actually sat at the caucus and I told the Republican Party ‘I'm not this far right person, or far left person. I'm going down the middle.’ We are such a small community, we have to listen to both sides, and we don't have all the answers. Answers are going to come from our citizens. They're going to tell us what they want. I had one of our state people come in and say, ‘You have to be more into the Republican Party. And I said, ‘No, I can't do that.’
I'm going to listen to these people. And I think that that's very important, that we are out there, we don't sit there and be one side or another. I've always said, as soon as you're elected, that R and D should be removed from your name because you're no longer
Republican county commissioner or Democrat county commissioner. You are a commissioner, that is it. But unfortunately, that R and D for so many people, means a lot. I've had a lot of people in my position and say, Oh, you're Republican. I'd never vote for a Republican. I can have the greatest idea. It's just that they're going to be that determined on it.
(Bella Biondini can be contacted at 970.641.1414 or bella@ gunnisontimes.com.)
(Abby Harrison can be contacted at 970.641.1414 or abby@ gunnisontimes.com.)
Hi , I am Kathleen Curry, candidate for the Colorado State House, District 58.
I am running because I care deeply about the West Slope and want our voice to be heard in Denver.
I have a background in water management, and my family ranches in Gunnison
I served three terms in the State House from 20052010 and have raised my family on the West Slope We are outnumbered at the state Capitol, so it is critical that whoever we send has the experience and leadership qualities to get things done
It really isn’t about red and blue – it is about effectively protecting our values and quality of life
I would be honored to get your vote this November
HD58. You can also scan the QR codes below to listen to the interviews in their entirety.
These podcast conversations explore the candidates’ background, qualifications and vision for the Western Slope counties they seek to represent.
ning to represent Colorado’s
(Alan Wartes can be contacted at 970.641.1414 or publisher@gunnisontimes.com.)
Topics of discussion include water rights and management, private property, the future of agriculture and more.
(Courtesy Larry Don Suckla)
(Courtesy Kathleen Curry)
GUNNISON WATERSHED SCHOOL DISTRICT
See GWSD website for details gunnisonschools.net
Gunnison Watershed School District believes that students thrive when they are connected to something bigger than themselves. That’s why we create learning experiences that spark curiosity, helping students discover who they are and how to make a difference in the world around them. As they excel in academics, athletics and the arts, students find the confidence to pursue any opportunity in life. Our team is “Driven to be the Difference!”
HOURLY OPPORTUNITIES
CBES/GES - Permanent
Substitute
CBES - Half-time SPED Educational Assistant Special Education Educational Assistant-Achievement Center
SMOKEHOUSE at Three Rivers Resort in Almont seeks an experienced Restaurant Manager(s) for the 2025 summer season. The restaurant will open Memorial Weekend and close October 5th. The Manager(s) will likely start the week of May 4th and finish up midOctober. Individuals or couples may apply. The Manager(s) will have well-rounded experience in running a busy restaurant with heavy emphasis on back-of-the-house operations. The Manager(s) will have strong leadership skills, bringing together a cohesive team, and effectively resolving employee and customer issues. This opportunity allows Manager(s) to run the operation as their own with consultation from Resort Managers/Owners. Compensation is based on experience and lucrative performance incentives may be available. Onsite housing or RV space plus resort discounts are included. We are a family business with a strong local following so if you’re tired of the “corporate” workplace, contact us: 3riversresort.com/employment/ or operations@3riversresort.com.
POWERSTOP is looking for head cook. Pay is $50,000 minimum, position also offers paid time off and health insurance reimbursement. Pay is based on 40 hours a week. Applications must be able to work mornings or evenings and weekends.
Resumes to be in a sealed envelope attention Sean. Drop off at Powerstop.
GUNNISON COUNTY EMPLOYMENT OPPORTUNITIES
Patrol Deputy Sheriff: Full-Time, 40 hours/week, the annual salary range is from $70,288 to $99,422 plus full benefits.
Heavy Equipment Operator
Public Works: Full-Time, 40 hours/ week, hourly range from $22.91 to $30.77 plus full benefits.
Juvenile Services Facilitator
Juvenile Services: Full-Time, 40 hours/week, hourly pay range is $27.03 - $30.36 plus full benefits. Bilingual - English and Spanish Speaking (Required)
Facilitator/Parent Coach
Juvenile Services: 20 hours/week, hourly pay range from $27.03 to $30.77, depending on experience, plus partial benefits. BilingualEnglish and Spanish Speaking (Preferred)
Family Support Manager
Juvenile Services: Full-Time, 40 hours/week, monthly pay rate is $6,581.00 plus full benefits.
Family Support Partner
Juvenile Services: Part-Time, 20 hours/week, starting hourly pay rate is $21.82, plus partial benefits.
Deputy Emergency Manager/ Emergency Preparedness and Response Coordinator
Emergency Management: FullTime, 40 hours/week, monthly pay range is $6,209 to $7,070 plus full benefits.
Administrative Assistant –Permitting/Job Costing
Public Works: Full-Time, 40 hours/week, hourly pay range from $27.03 to $30.77 plus full benefits.
Public Health Nurse II – Child Care Health Consultant
HHS: 20 hours/week, hourly pay range from $33.79 to $38.48, depending on experience, plus partial benefits.
Parents As Teachers - Parent Educator
HHS: 20 hours/week, hourly pay range from $27.03 to $30.77, depending on experience, plus partial benefits.
Juvenile Diversion Case Manager and Colorado Youth Detention Continuum (CYDC) Officer
Juvenile Services: 20 hours/ week, hourly pay range from $31.88 to $38.75, depending on experience, plus partial benefits.
Shop Technician I
Public Works: Full-Time, 40 hours/week, hourly range from $25.74 to $29.31 plus full benefits
For more information, including complete job descriptions, required qualifications and application instructions, please visit GunnisonCounty.org/jobs.
LOVE THE GUNNISON VALLEY?
Want to make a difference? Community Foundation of the Gunnison Valley is hiring an Administrative Coordinator to coordinate office activities and operations, provide clerical and administrative support to staff, and work closely with the board, donors, and community to uphold our purpose and values while fulfilling our vision, mission, and objectives. Salary range is $50,000-58,000 and benefits are provided. Visit cfgv.org/ about-the-cfgv/employment to learn more or apply.
BUS OPERATIONS MANAGER: The Gunnison Valley RTA is seeking a detail oriented experienced professional with clear and effective written and verbal communication skills to provide expertise and assistance overseeing the operations of the GVRTA Commuter Bus and Senior Transportation services. The chosen contractor will work closely with the GVRTA Executive Director and will be the liaison between the GVRTA and the private sector contractors. In addition to managing GVRTA facilities and overseeing partnerships, the Bus Operations Manager will be the point person for handling GVRTA customer service and provide input for planning future services. The GVRTA is budgeting approximately $6,500 per month for the first year of the contract and will be accepting letters of interest until 5pm on October 29th. Email gvrtaops@gmail.com for a full description and instructions.
B&H CONSTRUCTION is looking for skilled carpenters to join our team. Pay based on experience. Contact Jordan at 970-9010510 or bhcgunnison@gmail.com for more info.
THE ADAPTIVE SPORTS CENTER is seeking a Program Coordinator to help the organization continue to grow and thrive. Work for a local non-profit that provides therapeutic adventure-based programming for people with disabilities, their friends and family members. Join a fast-paced, professional team in a state-of-the-art facility in the Crested Butte Mountain Resort base area. The ASC has been rated Outside Magazine’s 50 Best Places To Work many years in a row.
The Program Coordinator is responsible for facilitating programs, supervising volunteers and seasonal staff, record-keeping, scheduling, database management, and other key aspects of program coordination
and/or Wastewater license or the ability to obtain such within one (1) year is mandatory (training for certifications provided). Operators will be required to take on-call responsibility including select weekends and holidays. A valid Colorado driver’s license is required, and a Commercial Driver’s License (CDL) is preferred at hiring or the ability to obtain such within one (1) year is required. Starting salary is $53,100 to $59,500 for entry level. $58,000 to $75,000 salary available for operators/electricians with experience and appropriate state licenses. Excellent benefits package including 100% employer paid premium family health, dental, and life insurance, 12 paid holiday days, two weeks paid vacation, paid sick leave, paid personal leave, employer contribution to retirement plan (5% automatic mandatory employer matching with 1-3% optional additional matching), employer provided uniforms, and a wellness benefit/ski pass. Full job description is available at www.mcbwsd. com. Please submit cover letter and resume
BUTTE is
the following part-time and full-time
positions: Ski Valet $18-$20/hr; Line Cook $21-$25/hr + Gratuity; Servers and Hosts $16/hr + Gratuity; Snow Removal Tech (must have on-call and
$25-$30/hr.
at the
For more
and
or to
please
for the Adaptive Sports Center (ASC). The Program Coordinator provides and sets the stage for outstanding customer service for clients and coordinates many critical aspects of programming, including public engagement.
This position is full time, year-round, and non-exempt. The starting salary range for this position is $22.14 - $24.52 an hour. This is a 12 month equivalency range of $46,000$51,000. It includes a competitive benefits package including 401(k), Paid Time Off and Holidays, Health Insurance Reimbursement, Season Pass, Ski/Equipment Locker, Professional Licenses/Certification Reimbursements [estimated annual benefit value of an additional $12,135. Desired start date of Nov.18 or until the position is filled. To apply, submit a letter of interest, resume, and references to Elizabeth Philbin, Assistant Program Director at elizabeth@adaptivesports.org and Chris Read, Program Director at cread@adaptivesports.org.
Subject Line: “Program Coordinator”. Email is currently the best way to reach us. The Adaptive Sports Center is an inclusive organization and an Equal Opportunity Employer. More information: adaptivesports. org/about-us/careers.
FOOD SECURITY PROGRAM DIRECTOR: Mountain Roots seeks experienced leader to advance food security initiatives. Focus on project management, team leadership, strategic growth, community impact, and advancing equity within sustainable food systems. Spanish language helpful. Salary $50,000 - $55,000/yr. Full description at www.mountainrootsfoodproject.org.
WINTER SNOW REMOVAL TECHNICIAN
NEEDED:. Bobcat experience required. Contact Dylan 970-901-5820 or Dylan@rockymountaintrees.com. Visit rockymountaintrees.com/employment/ for full job description.
THE MT CRESTED BUTTE WATER AND SANITATION DISTRICT is accepting applications for a full-time Wastewater Operator to be part of a team environment focused on the operations of the wastewater plant and collection system for Mt. Crested Butte. Qualifications for the position include construction experience, the ability to work outdoors, prepare and analyze lab responsibilities, and experience with electrical, mechanical and maintenance repairs. A State of Colorado Collections
theclubatcrestedbutte. com. THE ADAPTIVE SPORTS CENTER is seeking a Program Coordinator to help the organization continue to grow and thrive. Work for a local non-profit that provides therapeutic adventure-based programming for people with disabilities, their friends and family members. Join a fast-paced, professional team in a state-of-the-art facility in the Crested Butte Mountain Resort base area. The ASC has been rated Outside Magazine’s 50 Best Places To Work many years in a row. The Program Coordinator is responsible for facilitating programs, supervising volunteers and seasonal staff, record-keeping, scheduling, database management, and other key aspects of program coordination for the Adaptive Sports Center (ASC). The Program Coordinator provides and sets the stage for outstanding customer service for clients and coordinates many critical aspects of programming, including public engagement. This position is full time, year-round, and non-exempt. The starting salary range for this position is $22.14 - $24.52 an hour. This is a 12 month equivalency range of $46,000-$51,000. It includes a competitive benefits package including 401(k), Paid Time Off and Holidays, Health Insurance Reimbursement, Season Pass, Ski/Equipment Locker, Professional Licenses/Certification Reimbursements [estimated annual benefit value of an additional $12,135. Desired start date of November 18th or until the position is filled. To apply, submit a letter of interest, resume, and references to Elizabeth Philbin, Assistant Program Director at elizabeth@adaptivesports.org and Chris Read, Program Director at cread@adaptivesports.org.
Subject Line: “Program Coordinator”. Email is currently the best way to reach us. The Adaptive Sports Center is an inclusive organization and an Equal Opportunity Employer. More information: adaptivesports.org/aboutus/careers.
ELEVEN SEEKS A GLOBAL HUMAN RESOURCES ADMINISTRATOR to own all on-boarding, off-boarding, payroll, benefits, and HRIS processing functions for all Eleven locations across the globe. This role is responsible for managing global payroll and time-tracking systems, and will be the company’s subject matter expert on global on-boarding, off-boarding, payroll, benefits, and HRIS administration. This position requires 1+ years experience processing payroll, as well as high ethical standards and strong communication skills. The ideal candidate will have 1+ years experience processing global payroll. This full time, year round position starts at $60,000 - $65,000 annually, depending on experience and qualifications. For more information and to apply please visit elevenexperience.com/ careers/.
JOIN THE TOWN OF CRESTED BUTTE’S CLERK’S OFFICE: We are seeking an organized and detail-oriented individual to perform various administrative duties, supporting the Town Clerk, Town Council, and Municipal Court. This year-round position includes a salary range dependent on qualifications of $52,551-$63,952 and
includes an excellent benefits package with 100% employer-paid employee & dependent health, dental, vision, life insurance, and matching contributions to a retirement plan after one year of employment. Full job description and job application are available on the Town’s website at www. townofcrestedbutte.com. To apply, please submit an application and resume to jobs@ crestedbutte-co.gov
CAPITAL PROJECTS SUPERVISOR JOB
POSTING: The Mt. Crested Butte Water and Sanitation District is accepting applications for a capital projects supervisor. Under the general direction of the district manager, this full-time position is responsible for professional level oversight on all phases of capital expenditure construction projects for the district. Desired skills and experience include a successful record of delivering projects on schedule and within budget, strong project management skills, effective communication skills, both written and verbal, and a passion for water and wastewater construction projects. Important qualifications include a combination of experience and education with a desired Bachelor of Science degree in construction management, a PMP certification and/or a PE license in the state of Colorado. A valid Colorado driver’s license is required. Starting salary is $90,000-$130,000 DOQ. Excellent benefits package, including 100% employerpaid premium family health, dental, vision and life insurance, 12 paid holiday days, paid sick leave, paid personal leave, two weeks paid vacation, employer contribution to retirement plan (5% automatic mandatory employer matching with 1-3% optional additional matching), employer provided uniforms and a wellness benefit/ski pass. Full job description is available at mcbwsd. com. Please submit cover letter and resume to Mt. Crested Butte Water and Sanitation District, P.O. Box 5740, Mt. Crested Butte, CO 81225 or email info@mcbwsd.com. Position is open until filled. MCBWSD is an Equal Opportunity Employer.
REAL ESTATE
MODERN OFFICE/SHOWROOM SPACE available for rent immediately. 264sqft. Perfect for interior designers, architects, home remodeling or similar industry. Includes: front door space for your own business sign, 1 parking spot for owner and 1 for guests, internet, cleaning service, shared bathroom, window/deck with spectacular view, and garage storage for shipping and receiving. Nice natural light and comfortable interiors. $1,760/month utilities included. Riverland Industrial Park in CB. Call or Text 970-987-4198.
Work Session October 28, 2024 5:30pm Lake School Conference Room
This meeting will be conducted in person and by distance using the video conferencing platform ZOOM Webinar. Please check the GWSD website for further instructions. Work Sessions do not allow for public comment.
Work Session discussion items:
• Gunnison Wednesday Enrichment Program Laura Parker, Gunnison Enrichment Coordinator Parent Conferences
Jim Woytek, GHS Principal Sally Hensley, CBES Principal District Wide Assessment Report • Shari Sullivan-Marshall, Director of Curriculum, Instruction, and Assessment
Gunnison Country Times Gunnison, Colorado Publication date of October 17, 2024 15194
NOTICE OF BUDGET
NOTICE OF BUDGET
NOTICE is hereby given that a proposed budget has been submitted to the Board of Directors of the Arrowhead Fire Protection District for the ensuing year 2025. A copy of such proposed budget may be examined or obtained for public inspection at the Arrowhead fire station located at 2069 Spruce Road, Cimarron, CO 81220 or at www.arrowheadfi.re.or . That such proposed budget will be considered at a Regular Meeting of the Arrowhead Fire Protection District Board of Directors to be held on Friday November 8, 2024, at 1:00 p.in. at the Arrowhead fire station at 2069 Spruce Road, Cimarron, CO 81220. Any interested elector of such Arrowhead Fire Protectl.on District may inspect the proposed budget and file or register any objections thereto at any time prior to the fi.nal adoption of the budget. Notice and draft budget for 2025 will be posted on the AFPD website at www.arrowhead.org as well as at the Arrowhead Firehouse on October 17,
/s/ James E Matteson Chairman AFPD Board of Directors
Gunnison Country Times
Gunnison, Colorado Publication date of October 17, 2024 15265
NOTICE OF INTENT TO DISPOSE
Notice is hereby given to the following parties that their personal items stored at Discount Self Storage, 1825 N. Hwy 135, Gunnison, CO will be sold or disposed of unless claimed prior to October 24, 2024:
Unit L126 – Dennis Hetherington
Date of Redemption: October 24, 2024
Gunnison Country Times
Gunnison, Colorado Publication dates of October 17 and 24, 2024 15254
NOTICE TO CREDITORS
NOTICE TO CREDITORS
JOE PRINCE WAGGONER
A/K/A JOE P. WAGGONER Deceased Case Number 2024PR30030
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 by February 16, 2025, or the claims may be forever barred.
Bradley J. Frigon, Esq. #27883
Law Office of Bradley J. Frigon, LLC P O Box 271631 Littleton, CO 80127 (720) 200-4025
Gunnison Country Times
Gunnison, Colorado Publication dates October 17, 24 and 31, 2024 15221
NOTICE TO CREDITORS
NOTICE TO CREDITORS
Estate of Donald Ray Hirsch, Deceased Case Number 2024PR30029
All persons having claims against the above named estate are required to present them to the personal representative or to the District Court of Gunnison, County, Colorado on or before February 3, 2025, or the claims may be forever barred.
Gary Wayne Pekar as Personal Representative of the Estate of Donald Ray Hirsch 1515 Lloyds Hall Court Mansfield, TX 76063
Please contact through counsel: Jacob A. With, Atty. #:40546 Law of the Rockies 525 N. Main Street Gunnison, CO 81230 970-641-1903 ex. 2
Gunnison Country Times Gunnison, Colorado Publication dates of October 3, 10 and 17, 2024 15037
NOTICE TO CREDITORS
NOTICE TO CREDITORS
Franklin E. Oberosler, a/k/a Franklin Eugene Oberosler, Franklin Oberosler, and Frank Oberosler, Deceased Case Number 2024PR30028
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 by February 10, 2025, or the claims may be forever barred.
David Oberosler, Personal Representative c/o Law Office of Robert M. O’Hayre, LLC P.O. Box 179 Gunnison, CO 81230
Gunnison Country Times Gunnison, Colorado Publication dates October 10, 17 and 24, 2024 15173
NOTICE TO CREDITORS
NOTICE TO CREDITORS
Estate of Robert Daniel Whitesides, Deceased Case Number 24PR22
All persons having claims against the above named estate are required to present them to the personal representative or to the District Court of Gunnison, County, Colorado on or before February 10, 2025 or the claims may be forever barred.
Wesley Whitesides Personal Representative of the Estate of Robert Daniels Whitesides 416 1/2 Alamo St.
Grand Junction, CO 81504
Gunnison Country Times
Gunnison, Colorado Publication dates of October 10, 17 and 24 2024 15115
ORDINANCE
ORDINANCE NO. 6, SERIES 2024: AN ORDINANCE OF THE CITY COUNCIL OF THE CITY OF GUNNISON, COLORADO, REPEALING AND REENACTING SECTION 5.10.260, WEAPONS OFFENSES, OF THE CITY OF GUNNISON MUNICIPAL CODE
A full copy of the ordinance can be found on the City of Gunnison’s website at www. gunnisonco.gov, in the City Council e-packet information or at the City Clerk’s Office in City Hall, 201 West Virginia Avenue in Gunnison or by calling 970.641.8140.
Gunnison Country Times Gunnison, Colorado Publication date of October 17, 2024 15227
PUBLIC HEARING
NOTICE OF JOINT PUBLIC HEARING
CONCERNING LUC-24-00021, A LAND USE CHANGE PERMIT APPLICATION FOR SKETCH PLAN REVIEW OF A MAJOR IMPACT LAND USE CHANGE FOR AN EXPANSION OF COMMERCIAL USE AT HARMELS ON THE TAYLOR ON THE PARCEL OF LAND COMMONLY KNOWN AS PARCEL NO. 3433-000-00026, 6748 COUNTY ROAD 742 , TAYLOR RIVER CANYON, ALMONT, COLORADO; LEGALLY DESCRIBED AS 146.07 ACRES IN SECTIONS 21, 27 & 28, TOWNSHIP 15S, RANGE 84W AND MORE SPECIFICALLY DESCRIBED WITHIN THE WARRANTY DEED RECORDED AT RECEPTION NO. 678328, COUNTY OF GUNNISON, COLORADO.
HEARING DATE, TIME AND LOCATION: The Gunnison County Planning Commission and Gunnison Board of County Commissioners will conduct a joint public hearing on November 21, 2024 at 9:30 a.m. in the meeting room upstairs in the Blackstock Government Center, 221 N. Wisconsin St. in Gunnison and/or by ZOOM meeting. If attending by Zoom please go to the online meetings tab at https://www. gunnisoncounty.org/144/Community-andEconomic-Development for the ZOOM meeting link to hear public comments concerning this land use change permit application.
APPLICANT: Harmels on the Taylor River, LLC, represented by Law of the Rockies
PARCEL LOCATION: PARCEL NO. 3433000-00-026, 6748 COUNTY ROAD 742 , TAYLOR RIVER CANYON, ALMONT, COLORADO; LEGALLY DESCRIBED AS 146.07 ACRES IN SECTIONS 21, 27 & 28, TOWNSHIP 15S, RANGE 84W AND MORE SPECIFICALLY DESCRIBED WITHIN THE WARRANTY DEED RECORDED AT RECEPTION NO. 678328, COUNTY OF GUNNISON, COLORADO
PROPOSAL: The Applicant proposes an expansion of the existing commercial uses to the improvements identified below in “quadrants,” which are the areas geographically separated by CR-742, CR744, and the Taylor River.
The existing Harmels infrastructure includes: • The restaurant building. Approximately 39 cabin units.
Approximately 3 corrals and a stable.
Multiple septic systems and multiple drain fields.
• 2 additional bunkhouses.
• 2 wood sided buildings south of the restaurant building.
• 1 shed.
• Laundry facility.
Proposed Changes:
Southwest Quadrant Abandoning the septic systems and drain fields and replacing them with a new, state approved wastewater treatment plant. Removing the 2 additional bunkhouses that currently exist. Removing the 2 wood sided buildings.
• Constructing 4 cabins.
• Removing the existing laundry facility and bathhouse. f. Installing a new soccer/basketball/ volleyball court.
• Northwest Quadrant • Converting bunkhouse M to an employee/workforce housing. Constructing four employee/workforce housing lodges that can accommodate five to six employees each for a total of 22 more employee/workforce housing unit Installing 35 RV sites. Constructing a new bath/laundry facility.
• Installing 19 storage units to accommodate the needs of homeowners in this
Permit-Database. Select “projects” and type LUC-24-00021 in the application number field. If you have questions or issues accessing the files, contact the Community Development Department at (970) 6410360.
PUBLIC PARTICIPATION: The public is invited to submit oral or written comments at the hearing, or to submit written comments by email: planning@gunnisoncounty.org, or by letter (Community Development, 221 N. Wisconsin, Suite D, Gunnison, CO 81230), so long as they are received by 5 p.m. the afternoon before the date of the meeting so that they may be submitted for the public record during the hearing. A copy of the application is available in the Community Development Department, 221 N. Wisconsin, Suite D, Gunnison, CO; additional information may be obtained by calling the Planning Office (970) 641-0360.
ADA ACCOMMODATIONS: Anyone needing special accommodations as determined by the American Disabilities Act may contact the Community Development Department prior to the day of the hearing. /s/ Hillary I. Seminick, ACIP Planning Director Gunnison County Community Development Department
Gunnison Country Times Gunnison, Colorado
Publication date of October 17, 2024 15273
PUBLIC HEARING
NOTICE OF JOINT PUBLIC HEARING CONCERNING LUC-23-00032, A LAND USE CHANGE PERMIT APPLICATION FOR SKETCH PLAN REVIEW OF A MAJOR IMPACT LAND USE CHANGE FOR AN EXPANSION OF COMMERCIAL USE AT DISCOUNT (AKA CENTENNIAL) STORAGE ON THE PARCEL OF LAND
COMMONLY KNOWN AS PARCEL NO.
3701-250-06-008, 825 STATE HIGHWAY 135, GUNNISON, COLORADO; LEGALLY DESCRIBED AS LOT 3, FLYING RANCH SUBDIVISION, ACCORDING TO THE PLAT FILED SEPTEMBER 17, 2019 AT RECEPTION NO. 662373, COUNTY OF GUNNISON, COLORADO.
HEARING DATE, TIME AND LOCATION:
The Gunnison County Planning Commission and Gunnison Board of County Commissioners will conduct a joint public hearing on November 21, 2024 at 9:00 a.m. in the meeting room upstairs in the Blackstock Government Center, 221 N. Wisconsin St. in Gunnison and/or by ZOOM meeting. If attending by Zoom please go to the online meetings tab at https://www. gunnisoncounty.org/144/Community-andEconomic-Development for the ZOOM meeting link to hear public comments concerning this land use change permit application.
APPLICANT: Centennial Storage Partners, LLC, represented by Jennifer Barviski and Schumacher & O’Loughlin, LLC
PARCEL LOCATION: PARCEL NO. 3701250-06-008, 825 STATE HIGHWAY 135, GUNNISON, COLORADO; LEGALLY DESCRIBED AS LOT 3, FLYING RANCH
SUBDIVISION, ACCORDING TO THE PLAT FILED SEPTEMBER 17, 2019 AT RECEPTION NO. 662373, COUNTY OF GUNNISON, COLORADO.
PROPOSAL: Centennial Storage Partners, LLC (Applicant), represented by Michael O’Loughlin, Esq. of Schumacher & O’Loughlin, LLC, request an expansion of an existing Commercial use to allow for an additional 115 outdoor vehicle storage spaces adjacent to the Discount Storage facility at 1825 State Highway 135, Gunnison, CO 81230, Parcel No. 3701-25006-008 (Application). The request would increase outdoor vehicle storage units from 134 to 249 spaces. The proposal would not increase the approximate 21,000 sq. ft. of interior retail storage.
HOW TO VIEW THE APPLICATION:
A copy of the application is available online at: https://www.gunnisoncounty.org/436/PermitDatabase. Select “projects” and type LUC23-00032 in the application number field. If you have questions or issues accessing the files, contact the Community Development Department at (970) 641-0360.
PUBLIC PARTICIPATION: The public is invited to submit oral or written comments at the hearing, or to submit written comments by email: planning@gunnisoncounty.org, or by letter (Community Development, 221 N. Wisconsin, Suite D, Gunnison, CO 81230), so long as they are received by 5 p.m. the afternoon before the date of the meeting so that they may be submitted for the public record during the hearing. A copy of the application is available in the Community Development Department, 221 N. Wisconsin, Suite D, Gunnison, CO; additional information may be obtained by calling the Planning Office (970) 641-0360.
ADA ACCOMMODATIONS: Anyone needing special accommodations as determined by the American Disabilities Act may contact the Community Development Department prior to the day of the hearing.
/s/ Hillary I. Seminick, ACIP Planning Director
Gunnison County Community Development Department
Gunnison Country Times Gunnison, Colorado Publication date of October 17, 2024 15274
PUBLIC HEARING
NOTICE OF A PUBLIC HEARING CONCERNING AN APPLICATION FOR A REDUCED HORIZONTAL SEPARATION DISTANCE FROM A SEPTIC TANK TO A WETLAND BOUNDARY
HEARING DATE, TIME AND LOCATION:
The Gunnison County Environmental Health Board will meet on November 18th, 2024 at 1:45 P.M. in the Planning Commission Meeting Room at the Blackstock Government Center at 221 N Wisconsin (2nd floor) in Gunnison to hear public comment concerning a request for a variance to the Gunnison County On-site Wastewater Treatment System (OWTS) Regulations.
APPLICANT: The property owner is John Mortell
PARCEL LOCATION: The parcel is located at 475 Winze Road (Lot 15 Lost Miner Ranch Subdivision)
PROPOSAL: The proposed location of a septic tank does not meet the required horizontal separation distance to delineated wetlands. The Gunnison County OWTS Regulations, Section 7.A.1. and Table 7-1 requires a minimum 100 feet of horizontal separation between septic tanks and waterbodies, including wetlands. The proposed location of the septic tank is approximately 60 feet away from the closest delineated wetland boundary. The applicant is seeking the granting of a variance from this requirement to allow for a reduced setback distance.
PUBLIC PARTICIPATION: The public is invited to submit verbal or written comments at the hearing, or to submit written comments by email: planning@gunnisoncounty.org; or letter (Community Development, 221 N. Wisconsin, Suite D, Gunnison, CO 81230), so long as they are received by 5 p.m. the afternoon before the date of the meeting so that they may be submitted for the public record during the hearing. A copy of the application is available in the Community Development Department’s Permit Database, under permit OWTS-24-00184, which can be accessed and viewed at: https://www.gunnisoncounty.org/436/PermitDatabase
Additional information may be obtained by calling the Community Development Department (970) 641-0360.
LINK TO THE ZOOM MEETING CAN BE FOUND AT: https://www.gunnisoncounty.org/144/ Community-and-Economic-Development
ADA ACCOMMODATIONS: Anyone needing special accommodations as determined by the American Disabilities Act may contact the Community Development Department prior to the day of the hearing. /s/ Crystal Lambert Building & Environmental Health Official Gunnison Country Times Gunnison, Colorado Publication date of October 17, 2024 15229
NOTICE OF JOINT PUBLIC HEARING CONCERNING LUC-24-00028, A LAND USE CHANGE PERMIT APPLICATION FOR A MINOR IMPACT LAND USE CHANGE FOR A THREE LOT SUBDIVISION.
A PARCEL OF LAND LOCATED IN THE SOUTHWEST QUARTER OF THE SOUTHWEST QUARTER OF SECTION 33, TOWNSHIP 51 NORTH, RANGE 1 EAST OF THE N.M.P.M., GUNNISON COUNTY, COLORADO. PARCEL NO. 3517-333-00-005.
HEARING DATE, TIME AND LOCATION: The Gunnison County Board of County Commissioners and the Gunnison County Planning Commission will conduct a joint public hearing on November 21, 2024 at 10:30 a.m. in the meeting room upstairs in the Blackstock Government Center, 221 N. Wisconsin St. in Gunnison and/or by ZOOM meeting. If attending by Zoom please go to the online meetings tab at https://www. gunnisoncounty.org/144/Community-andEconomic-Development for the ZOOM meeting link to hear public comments concerning this land use change permit application.
APPLICANT: Jim Kunes
PARCEL LOCATION: 4.1 acres at 127 Evelyn Lane, Almont, County of Gunnison. Parcel No. 3517-333-00-005.
PROPOSAL: The Applicant is proposing a three-lot subdivision of 127 Evelyn Lane. 127 Evelyn Lane is a 4.1 acre lot, adjacent to Mitzel’s Green Acres Subdivision, approximately three miles south of Almont. The parcel currently has a 1,288 square foot single family residence, with a 616 square
foot attached garage and an 864 detached garage. No additional roads will be added for this subdivision.
PUBLIC PARTICIPATION: The public is invited to submit oral or written comments at the hearing, or to submit written comments by email: planning@gunnisoncounty.org, or by letter (Community Development, 221 N. Wisconsin, Suite D, Gunnison, CO 81230), so long as they are received by 5 p.m. the afternoon before the date of the meeting so that they may be submitted for the public record during the hearing. A copy of the application is available in the Community Development Department, 221 N. Wisconsin, Suite D, Gunnison, CO; additional information may be obtained by calling the Planning Office (970) 641-0360.
ADA ACCOMMODATIONS: Anyone needing special accommodations as determined by the American Disabilities Act may contact the Community Development Department prior to the day of the hearing.
/s/ Rachael Blondy Planner I Gunnison County Community Development Department
Gunnison Country Times Gunnison, Colorado Publication date of October 17, 2024
15275
PUBLIC NOTICE
Environmental At Large
The Gunnison Basin Roundtable is seeking applicants to represent environmental interests and shall be selected from nominees submitted by one or more regionally, statewide, or nationally recognized environmental conservation organizations that have operated in Colorado for at least five years. The selected Member will serve the balance of a five-year term (current term expires November 2025). Candidate should have a background or interest in environmental water resources management. The Gunnison Basin Roundtable meets bimonthly in the Montrose/Delta area. Please submit letters of interest to Wendell Koontz at wkoontz@ deltacountyco.gov and Kathleen Curry at kathleencurry@montrose.net. Deadline for submittal is Thursday November 7, 2024. Roundtable will consider applicants at their next meeting on November 18, 2024.
Gunnison Country Times
Gunnison, Colorado Publication dates of October 17 and 24, 2024
15266
PUBLIC NOTICE
GUNNISON COUNTY
TAX SALE INFORMATION
TAX SALE LIST
Our tax sale list will be published in October and will run for three weeks.
SALE
-Date of Sale: November 1, 2024
-Sale will be held online at www. zeusauction.com. Auction and registration information available on our website, www. gunnisoncounty.org/treasurer.
-Auction will begin at 8:00 am MST and close at 5:00 pm MST
BIDDING
-Employees and officials of Gunnison County, members of their immediate families or their agents are not permitted to bid at Gunnison County Tax Sale.
-It is bidder’s responsibility to know what he/ she is bidding on. Each parcel number and minimum bid (minimum bid includes taxes, interest, advertising and certificate costs) will be listed on auction site.
- Payment for all winning bids will be made by ACH from the bidder’s account that was used in the registration process. This is the only form of payment accepted.
INTEREST 15%
TAX LIEN
-You are only purchasing a lien to the property no other rights.
SUBSEQUENT PROPERTY
-If the owner does not pay future taxes by July 31, you will be notified of the amount due and you may pay them if you wish. Payments will accrue interest at the same rate as the certificate.
Gunnison Country Times Gunnison, Colorado. Publication dates of October 3, 10 and 17 2024 14995
PUBLIC NOTICE
PUBLIC NOTICE Is hereby given that I will, according to law, offer online at www.zeusauction.com, November 1, 2024, commencing at the hour of 8:00 am and ending at 5:00pm on
said day, tax liens on the following described real estate situated in said County of Gunnison for unpaid general taxes for the year 2023.The taxes herein set together with interest, penalties and costs as provided by law. (Advertising costs are made on an average parcel charge);
DELINQUENT REAL ESTATE PROPERTY TAXES
R001125 $6,896.88
1210 W TOMICHI PARTNERS LLC LOTS 13-19 & PART OF ADJACENT STREET AND ALLEY, BLOCK 112, WEST GUNNISON
R014744 $1,014.58
ADEN ROGER GEORGE LOT 7, BLOCK 14, ARROWHEAD SUBDIVISION, FILING NO. 2
R013343 $1,454.54
ANDERSON PATTI DICK
Includes 2022 and 2023 taxes
IMPROVEMENT ONLY: ON USFS LAND, SECTION 24, TOWNSHIP 14S, RANGE 85W, LOT Z, CEMENT CREEK SUMMER HOME GROUP
R043982 $764.19
ANDERSON SCOTT D UNIT 221, THE GRAND LODGE CRESTED BUTTE RESORT II CONDOMINIUMS, MT. CRESTED BUTTE
R017647 $1,589.14
ANNARELLI DENNIS C JR UNIT 314-A, SKYLAND LODGE CONDOMINIUMS
R042890 $973.33
ARCHULETA ANGELO
MORNING STAR & LAMAR LODE MINING CLAIMS, SURVEY #S:2656 & 2657 TOMICHI MINING DISTRICT
R012196 $741.54
ARSENAULT ROBERTA LOT 7, BLOCK 3, ARROWHEAD SUBDIVISION, FILING NO. 3
R074431 $74.26
B MURPHY CONSTRUCTION UNIT B, BUILDING 105, LAZY K TOWNHOMES
R005814 $1,526.54
BAKER AUDREY I LIVING TRUST UNIT 505, BUTTES CONDOMINIUMS, MT CRESTED BUTTE
R012211 $112.02
BARRITT BARBARA J GOLDEN SLIPPER LODE MINING CLAIM, SURVEY #13179, DOMINGO MINING DISTRICT
R014584 $1,756.51
BATES TRUST LOT 21, BEARCLAW SUBDIVISION
R026919 $704.08
BETINE RICHARD L M.L. AYERS & HENRY LAWRENCE LODE MINING CLAIMS, SURVEY #S:1935 & 1936, TOMICHI MINING DISTRICT
R016248 $719.97
BIBBY CHARLES KING JR LOT 13, BLOCK 3, ARROWHEAD SUBDIVISION, FILING NO. 3
R016342 $2,024.15
BIBBY CHARLES KING JR LOT 14, BLOCK 3, ARROWHEAD SUBDIVISION, FILING NO. 3
R010748 $3,276.14
BLOOMER KENNETH MICHAEL LOT 40, DOS RIOS SUBDIVISION, UNIT NO. 3
R003319 $6,097.49
BORLAND ANTHONY H LOT 20 & PART OF LOTS 18 & 19, THE SOPRIS SUBDIVISION, BLOCK 25, CRESTED BUTTE
R014118 $278.82
BRANSON REX LOTS 10-12 & 16, BLOCK 12, MARBLE SKI AREA SUBDIVISION, FILING NO. 2
R073134 $1,515.55
BRANSON REX PARCEL A, BLOCK 10, MARBLE SKI AREA SUBDIVISION, FILING NO. 2
R001083 $1,900.02
BRODEUR JACQUELYN LOT 17, BLOCK 7, PALISADE ADDITION TO GUNNISON
R042687 $3,721.80
BRYANT DAVID T LIVING TRUST LOT M3-54, BUCKHORN RANCH SUBDIVISION
R012287 $739.38
BRYNDAL CARL E VIRGINIA LODE MINING CLAIM, SURVEY #3164, ELK MOUNTAIN MINING DISTRICT
R032096 $4,040.11
BUSHFENCE LLC UNIT
105, MAJESTIC PLAZA CONDOMINIUMS, CRESTED BUTTE
R016460 $1,070.22 BYERS KARA D LOT 11, BLOCK 11, ARROWHEAD SUBDIVISION, FILING NO. 3
VIDMAR M K TRUST 9.203 ACRES IN SECTION 3, TOWNSHIP 49N, RANGE 1W
R031836 $5,506.76
VILLALOBOS MARIO LOTS 1-4, PART OF LOT 5 AND ADJACENT ALLEY, BLOCK 42, MARBLE
R043196 $13,013.72
WALKER JANE H TRUST FBO WINTER
WATERS PAUL A
42.090 ACRES IN SECTIONS 23 & 26, TOWNSHIP 47N, RANGE 4W
R072873 $167.81
WATSON LINDA L PART OF LOT E5 & TRASH ENCLOSURE LOT, PONDEROSA PARK SUBDIVISION
R002242 $4,263.86
WEAVER JESSIE LOTS 1-3, BLOCK 37, WEST GUNNISON
R043917 $1,793.14
WELFELT ERIN S UNIT 1, WILDWOOD TOWNHOMES CONDOMINIUMS, PHASE 8, GUNNISON
R012125 $759.99
WEMPEN MICHAEL CRAIG LOT 6, BLOCK 9, ARROWHEAD SUBDIVISION, FILING NO. 1
R031668 $2,916.43
WGMA LAKESIDE LP LOTS 18-20 & PART OF LOT 21, BLOCK 6, MARBLE SKI AREA SUBDIVISION, FILING NO. 1
R031245 $10.76
WHETSTONE TOWNHOUSE ASSOC PART OF LOT M-5, RIVER BEND SUBDIVISION
R025330 $2,799.47
WHINNERY HELEN E
978.03 ACRES IN SECTIONS 25, 26, 35 & 36, TOWNSHIP 46N, RANGE 4W
R040779 $64.38
WHINNERY STEVEN L
200 ACRES IN SECTIONS 17 & 20, TOWNSHIP 46N, RANGE 3W
R042351 $64.38
WHINNERY STEVEN L
200 ACRES IN SECTIONS 25 & 26, TOWNSHIP 48N, RANGE 4W
R042916 $37.86
WHINNERY STEVEN L
80 ACRES IN SECTION 35, TOWNSHIP 48N, RANGE 4W
R042918 $461.14
WHINNERY STEVEN L
545.18 ACRES IN SECTIONS 1 & 2, TOWNSHIP 47N, RANGE 4W
R032065 $1,385.11
WHINNERY STEVEN LYNN
40 ACRES IN SECTION 35, TOWNSHIP 46N, RANGE 4W
R011796 $677.16
WILSON MELISSA LOT 10, BLOCK 10, ARROWHEAD
SUBDIVISION, FILING NO. 1
R016296 $520.27
WILSON MELISSA LOT 22, BLOCK 7, ARROWHEAD
SUBDIVISION, FILING NO. 3
R042174 $1,429.05
WONSPEED LLC UNIT 102, WEST ELK CENTER CONDOMINIUMS, CRESTED BUTTE
R042176 $1,429.05
WONSPEED LLC UNIT 204, WEST ELK CENTER CONDOMINIUMS, CRESTED BUTTE
R042179 $660.38
WONSPEED LLC UNIT 203, WEST ELK CENTER CONDOMINIUMS, CRESTED BUTTE
R042180 $958.03
WONSPEED LLC UNIT 202, WEST ELK CENTER CONDOMINIUMS, CRESTED BUTTE
R012135 $39.48
WRIGHT ARWEN ANN VANDENBERG LOT 21, BLOCK 1, IOLA VALLEY TRACTS
SUBDIVISION
R007232 $855.19
WYNNE JOSEPH
MONETARY NO.2 LODE MINING CLAIM, SURVEY #8231, QUARTZ CREEK PROPERTIES
SUBDIVISION
R017285 $218.08
ZAKRAJSEK RICHARD A LOT 24, BLOCK 12, ARROWHEAD
SUBDIVISION, FILING NO. 3
R016604 $130.42
October 3, 2024
Debbie Dunbar Gunnison County Treasurer
Gunnison Country Times
Gunnison, Colorado. Publication dates of October 3, 10 and 17 2024 14997
REQUEST FOR PROPOSAL
Saguache County Land Use is soliciting 3rd party reviews for our 1041 proposals to provide insight and expert advice from firms that are expert in environmental impact studies, as well as other matters of State interest contained in the Saguache County 1041 Regulations. This shall include, but not be limited to, review of the Saguache County 1041 Regulation for analysis of matters of State interest contained therein to include whether sufficient information has been provided by applicants for a complete analysis of all matters of State interest. RFP Responses are due by November 22, 2024, at 3:00 PM (Mountain Time). The proposal will include being a project manager for 1041 applications, both on-site and off-site collaborations with Saguache County, Management and Review Prep, Review of Application, Additional Reviews for the Application, Lead Agency Referrals,
Staff Report Preparation, Hearing Preparation and Attendance. Please direct your questions to Amber Wilson, Land Use Administrator at atorrez@saguachecountyco.gov or 719-655-2321. Businesses with expertise in environmental impact studies for large projects are encouraged to respond.
Gunnison Country Times
Gunnison, Colorado
Publication dates of October 17, 24, 31 and November 7, 2024 15271
OLIVIA PARCEL 13, THE RESERVE ON THE EAST RIVER SUBDIVISION
ZIMMER CONSTANCE LOT 38, BLUE MESA SUBDIVISION - UNIT 2
R008012 $81.54
SCHOONOVER JACKIE L LOTS 25-28, BLOCK 20, LA VETA ADDITION TO PITKIN
R011359 $193.21
SCHOONOVER JACKIE L
R040157 $1,634.10
WARREN TONY
100.037 ACRES IN SECTION 6, TOWNSHIP 47N, RANGE 3W
R025357 $749.11
R071649 $3,199.15
ZIMMER CONSTANCE APRYL
LOT 5, BLOCK 29, CRESTED BUTTE SOUTH SUBDIVISION
WITNESS MY HAND AND SEAL THIS
Paint the town red
The Gunnison Valley community, dressed head-to-toe in red, took over Elk Avenue for a Red Lady celebration on Oct. 4. The crowd gathered to celebrate Mt. Emmons’ mine-free future, which was finally secured with conservation easements and a mineral extinguishment after a nearly 50-year fight. The following morning, a horde of hikers trekked to the summit of Red Lady. High Country Conservation Advocates, originally founded in 1977 to
of
the
organized
Tickets are:
$25 ages 18 and up
$20 for students through college
$10 for kids 5 - 11 4 and under are free!
All proceeds will go to GVAWL
Tickets can be purchased online using the QR Code, or by stopping at Pat’s Screen Printing (242 N Main St) or Blue Mesa Music (132 N Main St) . You can also purchase tickets at the door! (Cash only)
(Courtesy Jon Hare/High Country Conservation Advocates)
This brand-new, 3-bedroom, 2.5-bathroom property is a testament to modern design and quality craftsmanship. As you step inside, you’re greeted by an open and inviting kitchen-dining area, adorned with cherry cabinets and equipped with state-of-the-art stainless steel appliances. The tiled shower and bathtub add a touch of luxury to the bathrooms, while the master bedroom boasts its own oasis with a reading nook or small office space. The 2-car detached garage features 8-foot doors and 10-foot ceilings inside, providing ample space for your vehicles and storage needs. The extra space above the garage, accessible via exterior stairs, presents exciting opportunities. Whether you need additional storage or dream of an ADU (Accessory Dwelling Unit), the potential is yours to explore with City of Gunnison approval. Don’t miss the chance to make this new construction your forever home. Contact us now to schedule a viewing and witness the epitome of contemporary living!
TBD W Denver Ave. MLS# 816647 $610,000 Spectacular 2.5 acre level lot located in Gunnison’s new subdivision Elk Ranch. This parcel is located just outside City limits on the west side of town and seller has it set up to be built on immediately. Lot has a well permit already in place along with the required approval for well from the Upper Gunnison Water Conservancy District which can be transferred at closing. Buyer of lot may also pay for tap fees to hook into the City water and sewer main that will be extended north by City this fall. There is a shared road/driveway into the subdivision and it will be completed by this fall as well. Lot has been surveyed and a building envelope has been established for a single family residence but other dwellings such as barns/sheds etc. will be allowed. Come enjoy some country living with incredible views of mountains up Ohio Valley and the Palisades while being so close to town.
16 Irwin St. MLS# 817525 $625,000 6 bedroom/3 bath updated brick home located in Palisades subdivision. This home has 2 kitchens and separate living spaces and the downstairs has its own entrance from the back of house. The breezeway from the house to the 2 car oversized garage is fully enclosed and is great space for entertaining or storage. Close to schools and new Gunnison Library. This is
GMUG National Forests obtain 203 acres of wilderness
Acquisition prevents development
Bella Biondini Times Editor
The Grand Mesa, Uncompahgre and Gunnison (GMUG) National Forests, in partnership with the Wilderness Land Trust, acquired three parcels of private land in Gunnison County that are transitioning to wilderness.
According to a press release from the Forest Service, the acquisition includes:
• A roughly 10-acre mining claim located in the Maroon Bells-Snowmass Wilderness called Cooper Glance. This area spans the White River and Gunnison national forests in the Elk Mountains above Crested Butte. It surrounds the Maroon Bells Scenic Area, a popular entry point for hikers and backpackers.
• Jacob Straeder, another approximately 10-acre mining claim that provides recreational access and hunting opportunities. This land lies less than 1,000 feet from the boundary of the Raggeds Wilderness. This wilderness is located northwest of Crested Butte and is known for the nine named summits of the Ruby Range.
These lands, known as “inholdings,” are islands of private land within or next to federally designated wilderness areas. Land management agencies like the Forest Service have their own process to acquire these kinds of properties, but it can often take several years to complete. Typically private landowners who are looking to sell need to move on a faster timeline, especially in the competitive real estate markets that exist throughout much of Colorado, said Margosia Jadkowski of the Land Trust.
are good sized with plenty of closet storage and a shared hall bath. The property has a nice grassy courtyard to enjoy those beautiful Gunnison sunsets. New roof was installed earlier this year and the seller has already paid the assessment from the HOA for it. This property has historically been a rental and currently
Through private fundraising and relationships with landowners that can take years to build, the Land Trust moves more quickly and can hold properties while the Forest Service, Park Service and Bureau of Land Management go through their own process to acquire the inholdings. In the interim, the Land Trust often completes restoration work.
Many of Colorado’s public lands have inholdings because of the state’s rich mining history, she said. Because they don’t carry the protections of the land around them, inholdings can be developed with anything from cabins and resorts to active mines.
“They each carry a threat of development that impacts the designated wilderness surrounding them ... Our goal is to see these wilderness areas — some of which were made 60 years ago now when the Wilderness Act passed — finally be made whole,” Jadkowski said.
• The Cross Mountain acquisition is located within the Fossil Ridge Wilderness and the Fossil Ridge Recreation Management Area, about 16 miles northeast of Gunnison. It is 183 acres and contains 11 mining claims. The Fossil Ridge rises above 13,000 feet and contains the fossilized remains of prehistoric sea life, pine, spruce, fir and aspen forests and valleys carved by ancient glaciers.
The newly acquired wilderness lands contain sensitive alpine ecosystems and wildlife habitat, simplify land boundaries and improve recreational and hunting access in Gunnison County.
“This acquisition protects wild and undeveloped viewsheds and consolidates private ownership within National Forest System lands … Acquisition of these parcels will help strengthen and preserve congressionally designated wilderness areas,” Gunnison District Ranger Dayle Funka said in the press release.
(Bella Biondini can be contacted at 970.641.1414 or bella@ gunnisontimes.com.)
The Cross Mountain property in the Fossil Ridge Wilderness. (Courtesy Wilderness Land Trust)
Lights & Sirens
OCTOBER 13
ACCIDENT - HIT & RUN — 716 ANDREW LN.
ACCIDENT — 200 E. TOMICHI AVE.
WELFARE ASSIST — W. TOMICHI AVE.
GUNNISON COUNTY SHERIFF’S REPORT
OCTOBER 8
AVE. THEFT: INTENDS TO PERMANENTLY DEPRIVE — 800 W. OHIO AVE.
THEFT - UNDER $100.00 MUNICIPAL — 1 QUARTZ ST. ADMIN - UNASSIGNED INCIDENT — 910 W. BIDWELL AVE.
- Possible domestic dispute- under investigation- north district
OCTOBER 9
-Theft of tires and rims from CR-25 and Hwy 149 from public works under investigation
- Found dog in Somerset- male, dark brown, pit mix – brought to the Gunnison Valley Animal Welfare league
- Deputies located a person who was reported missing from Colorado Springs
AGENCY ASSIST — 2388 HWY. 135
OCTOBER 8
ACCIDENT — 108 S. 12TH ST.
THEFT - UNDER $100.00 MUNICIPAL — 108 S. 12TH ST.
ANIMAL - NUISANCE ABATEMENT - MUNICIPAL — 521 W. ELIZABETH AVE.
HARASSMENT: COMMUNICATIONS — 600. N. COLORADO ST. INFORMATION — 600 N. COLORADO ST.
OCTOBER 9
ACCIDENT — 500 N. 8TH ST.
MUNICIPAL CODE VIOLATION — 200 ESCALANTE DR.
ASSAULT: THIRD DEGREE - BODILY INJURY — 212 W. HWY. 50 ADMIN - UNASSIGNED INCIDENT — 303 N. MAIN ST.
TRAFFIC - LEFT SCENE W/OUT
PROVIDING REQ INFO AFTER ACCIDENT — 880 N. MAIN ST. VIOLATION OF PROTECTION ORDER: CRIMINAL ORDER — 514 W. NEW YORK AVE.
OCTOBER 10
CRIMINAL TRESPASS: FIRST DEGREE - VEHICLE — 200 S. ADAMS ST. WELFARE ASSIST - MISSING PERSON — 910 W. BIDWELL AVE.
MUNICIPAL CODE VIOLATION — 222 S. 10TH ST.
PROPERTY - FOUND — 700 N. COLORADO ST.
CRIMINAL MISCHIEF — 422 TINCUP DR.
OCTOBER 11
ACCIDENT — 113 W. TOMICHI AVE.
JUVENILE PROBLEM — E.
TOMICHI AVE.
FRAUD — 300 E. GEORGIA AVE.
AGENCY ASSIST — HWY. 135
OCTOBER 12
DRIVING UNDER THE INFLUENCE
- DRUGS — 400 N. WISCONSIN ST. THEFT: INTENDS TO PERMANENTLY DEPRIVE — 900 N. MAIN
ST.
ACCIDENT — E. TOMICHI AVE.
- Missing firearm reported- this gun has been entered into the system
OCTOBER 10
- Deputies took one person into custody to our detention center on the Judge’s request
- Recurring dog barking complaintunder investigation
- Dogs at large on the highwaydeputies located the owner and relayed the ordinance
OCTOBER 11
- Courthouse deputies took one person into custody for an out of county warrant
- Dog at large report – multiple incidents- under investigation
- Deputies with Gunnison Police officers- responded to an active trespass and took one person into custody and transported them to jail
-Deputies and Western Mountain Resue Team responded to a search and rescue in the South Baldly Mountain area, for 3 missing hikers. Western SAR was able to locate the three hikers safely
OCTOBER 12
- North district trespassing complaint
OCTOBER 13
- Agency assist to the National Park Service for fire at Coopers West that may have been intentional.
- Abandonment of a vehicle report
- Deputies assisted the Colorado State Patrol with a two-motorcycle crash with injuries on County Road 209 Cottonwood Pass
- Deputies responded to GVAWL for a dog who was found- deputies checked the dog for a microchip –and was able to contact the owner to retrieve the dog
OCTOBER 14
- Fraud report
- Deputies assisted the Colorado State Patrol on a traffic stop where the driver had an active warrant
SPORTS: Girls soccer grows in Gunnison, B6
COUNTRY TIMES • THURSDAY, OCTOBER 17, 2024
At Crested Butte Jewelry School, artists learn to thrive
Mariel Wiley Times Photo Editor
The pervasive myth of the “starving artist” often dissuades creatives from pursuing their
A silver lining
passions full-time. But Crested Butte-based jewelry maker and business coach Meaghan Young is determined to teach artists that success is an option, too. In addition to jewelry making and silversmithing workshops, Young offers online business coaching classes and in-person retreats to help jewelry entrepreneurs pursue their dream careers. The students can apply this newfound knowledge to their own budding jewelry busi-
nesses. This gives them a creative outlet and financial freedom, Young said.
“It’s a lifestyle business, because we’re meant to enjoy our lives,” Young said. “The work and business serve that lifestyle, instead of the other way around.”
Young’s own journey into the jewelry world happened by chance, and through her willingness to follow opportunities when they arose. She hitchhiked her way across the country to the
Gunnison Valley 30 years ago, with nothing more than $600 and a pair of skis to her name. After that inaugural visit, she left upstate New York behind for a life in the mountains.
After graduating from Western State College with a liberal arts degree, Young spent her evenings bartending at the since-closed Timberline restaurant in Crested Butte. During a late-night shift, one of Young’s customers inquired about the
handmade beaded necklace she was wearing.
“I had just made myself that necklace, and a woman who was eating at the bar asked me about it and wanted to buy it right there off my neck, so I sold it to her,” Young said.
When Young went to greet two more women at the other end of the bar, they asked if she had just sold the necklace she’d been wearing. Upon learning Silversmithing B2
• Homestead includes barns, shop space, storage, & corrals
• Complete turnkey ranch or equestrian facility
• Sweeping views of the Gunnison Valley
• 3 miles to downtown Gunnison
• Offered for $2,900,000
GUNNISON
Silversmiths don masks while operating flame torches. (Photos by Mariel Wiley)
2024 Flu Clinics
Protect yourself and those around you!
Crested Butte
October 9th
3-6 pm
Inside the Parish Hall of Queen of All Saints 401 Sopris Ave.
Parking available in the parking lot, close walking distance from Elk Ave
Gunnison
October 17th
2-6 pm
Gunnison County Health & Human Services Office 220 N. Spruce St.
Drive-thru and walk-in clinic!
Drive-thru clinic in the south parking lot, enter from Virginia Ave
Walk-in clinic entrance through the office lobby, use the west parking lot off Spruce St. or park on West Georgia Ave.
Regular and High Dose Flu Vaccines Available
PLEASE BRING A HARD COPY OF INSURANCE CARDS WITH ID’S TO CONFIRM INFORMATION We DO NOT accept Kaiser Permanente insurance
$25 for the vaccine if you are uninsured
Cash, checks, & credit cards are accepted
Persons 6 months and older can be vaccinated
2024 Clinicas de Gripe/Flu
¡Protégete a ti mismo y a los que te rodean!
Crested Butte Gunnison
9 de octubre 3-6pm
Dentro del Salón
Parroquial de Queen of All Saints 401 Sopris Ave
Aparcamiento disponible en el aparcamiento, a poca distancia a pie de Elk Ave
17 de octubre 2-6 pm
Oficina de Salud y Servicios
Humanos del Condado de Gunnison 220 N Spruce St
Esta clínica ofrecerá servicio desde el coche y sin cita.
clínica de acceso en coche será en el estacionamiento sur por la calle
Virginia entrada a la clínica sin cita será en la área de recepción de la oficina, utilice el aparcamiento oeste de Spruce St o aparque en West Georgia Ave
Vacunas contra la gripe de dosis normal y alta disponibles POR FAVOR TRAIGA UNA COPIA DE SU TARJETA DE SEGURO MEDICO Y SU IDENTIFICACIÓN PARA CONFIRMAR SU INFORMACIÓN NO aceptamos el seguro medico Kaiser Permanente
$25 por la vacuna si no tiene seguro médico
Se aceptan efectivo, cheques y tarjetas de crédito
Las personas a partir de 6 meses pueden vacunarse
Silversmithing from B1
what happened, they eagerly recruited her to make new ones for each of them.
Young started selling her handmade beaded jewelry in town and across the state, but soon realized she wanted to be more deeply involved in the fabrication process. She made her way back east to attend the New Approach School for Jewelers in Virginia.
Young spent the intervening decades building her jewelry business and refining her business acumen. Her journey was often a lonely one, she said, but she’s on a mission to change that landscape for newcomers to the industry with the Crested Butte Jewelry School. She also recently opened a second studio in Sedona, Arizona.
“That’s my favorite part about it. It’s a community, too,” Young said. “The people in these groups — I have one for silversmithing and one for business — inspire each other and help each other, and we just keep lifting each other up.”
Last week, Young led a silversmithing workshop from her studio just off of Elk Avenue. Inside the second-floor workspace, large windows illuminate surfaces covered with tools and polished stones. Students gathered around a hefty wooden table at the room’s center on the fourth day of the workshop, hammering and sawing away at bands of silver.
Over the course of five days, students from across the valley learned how to fabricate silver rings, each inlaid with a unique turquoise stone. Each day, the jewelers “stacked” their new skills with the ones acquired in previous classes, helping them build up to more complex projects. Like carpentry or welding, silversmithing is a trade complete with its own set of terminology and equipment that smiths must master.
Early in the week, each student created a set of five stackable, simple bands formed from thin silver wire. During
the final two days of the course, they formed chunky silver statement rings inlaid with turquoise stones.
The students in Young’s classes learn skills such as annealing (softening the metal using heat), filing, sawing, blending, polishing and soldering. Soldering is a process similar to welding, but on a much smaller scale.
While making their statement rings, the students dropped tiny pieces of the filler solder metal into a silver band resting atop a flat silver square. Once heated with a small torch, the melted solder cements the band and its backing together, creating a setting for the polished stone. Young stood by each student’s side as they worked, coaching them through the process.
In Young’s own experience, self doubt and building business intelligence were the biggest obstacles to overcome along her jewelry making journey. At Crested Butte Jewelry School’s workshops and womens’ retreats, participants come together to work through hesitations and self-doubts that might hold them back from taking a chance on a new career in jewelry making.
Some fledgling silversmiths are burdened by societal myths that creative endeavors aren’t lucrative enough to make ends meet. Others struggle with doubt in their own ability to create pieces that they’re proud of. And many are unsure of their business savvy, which comes with time, trial and error, Young said.
“The women that come to the retreats who are open, receptive and want to change their lives have the most incredible transformations while they’re there,” Young said. “It’s beautiful to see.”
(Mariel Wiley can be contacted at 970.641.1414 or mariel@gunnisontimes.com.)
A student holds her current project, while the stackable silver bands she made earlier in the week adorn her fingers.
An illustrious career
Six Points Evaluation and Training staff shared a luncheon at Ol’ Miner Steakhouse on Oct. 15 to celebrate employee Donny Schneider’s (far left) 37 years of service with the nonprofit.
Race through the sage
Runners competed in the annual Sage Burner Trail Race at Hartman Rocks on Oct. 12. The event consisted of three different distances: 50K, 28K and an inaugural 15K which was included as part of the Youth Trail Running Initiative. The first-place winners were Jim McCue (50K), Josh Eberly (28K) and Timmy Parr (15K).
(Photos by Jacob Spetzler)
(Photo by Mariel Wiley)
‘GFALL’ and auction
The Gunnison Valley Animal Welfare League will present GFALL, an autumn festival supporting the valley’s homeless animals on Saturday Oct. 19 from 5-8 p.m. at the Elks Lodge, 123 S. Main St. in Gunnison. Admission includes dinner, live music by Matthew Grant and more. All proceeds will benefit GVAWL. Tickets are $25 ages 18 and up, $20 for students and $10 for kids 5-11. Under 4 are free. Tickets are available at Pat’s Screen Printing or Blue Mesa Music in Gunnison.
PTA costume swap
Donate your child's old or outgrown costumes until Friday Oct. 18 to the Gunnison PTA. Drop them off, and we’ll bring them to the swap event on Friday, Oct. 18 from 4-6 p.m. at the Gunnison Elementary School gym, 1099 N. 11th St., Gunnison.
Free coats and more
The Gunnison Rotary Club sponsors a free coat closet on the west side of the Gunnison Country Food Pantry building at 114 S. 14th St. Feel free to take a coat or leave a gently used coat of any size.
GriefShare
Are you grieving the loss of a family member or friend? Mt. Calvary Lutheran Church in Gunnison will host a 13-week, scripture-based support group on a schedule that will accommodate all participants. Email Rod Morrill at rodmorrill2@ gmail.com for more information and to register.
Winter dance programs
The Crested Butte School of Dance winter programs begin Oct. 28 and registration is now open. For more information about class schedules and scholarship opportunities, visit dancecrestedbutte.org or email programs@dancecrestedbutte.org.
League of Women Voters
The League of Women Voters is hosting a forum to discuss and explain all 14 ballot issues Oct. 17 at 6:30 p.m in the Gunnison High School auditorium, 800 W. Ohio Ave. LWV State Executive Director Beth Hendrix and local LWV member Thalia Oster will lead the session. A second forum will take place Oct. 22 at 12:30 p.m., in the University Center at Western Colorado University, also sponsored by the League of Women Voters.
GUNNISON ARTS CENTER BRIEFS
Pottery Date Night
Join us Oct. 18 from 5:30 - 8:30 p.m. at the GAC Clay Studio for a fun and creative Pottery Date Night class. Shape memories together and make something special! 21+ alcoholic and nonalcoholic options available.
Coraline youth clay workshop
On Oct. 19 from 1-3 p.m. step into a world of whimsy and wonder with our Youth Coraline Clay Workshop! Inspired by the enchanting universe of Coraline, this workshop is designed to spark creativity and imagination in young artists. For ages Ages 7 - 15
CB CENTER FOR THE ARTS BRIEFS
‘Rocky Horror Picture Show’
On Oct. 25 at 7 p.m., Firebird Theatre and the Center for the Arts are proud to present an outrageously fun screening of the 1975 cult classic, “Rocky Horror Picture Show!” Featuring an interactive shadow cast starring some of Crested Butte’s hottest talent, this night of absolute pleasure encourages unbridled audience participation. Get rowdy and let’s do the Time Warp again! 18+ unless accompanied by an adult. The cost is $35.
The Dean's List tour 2024
The Dean's List is coming to Crested Butte for the second time on Nov. 2 at 7 p.m. with a full set of ski and snowboard films. TDL organization stands to support action sports filmmakers and athletes by touring the best in amateur and profes-
PTA potluck
The Gunnison Valley PTA is organizing a fall parent teacher conference meal for Lake School and Gunnison Community School. If you would like to contribute to the meal, please visit gunnisonvalleypta.com to sign up.
Call for dancers
The community dance production, Move The Butte, will take place on Feb. 20-22, 2025 at the Crested Butte Center for The Arts. Anyone interested in dancing in MTB can sign up using the “Call for Dancers” form at movethebutte.com. The page is live until Nov. 1. Adults over the age of 18 are welcome, no dance experience necessary. Email movethebutte@gmail. com for more information.
sional film. Join us for a night of gear giveaways, film premiers, and athlete chats. The cost is $15.
Small Works Show reception
Join us Nov. 8 from 5-7 p.m. for the opening reception of our Small Works Show to celebrate the participating artists. Featuring complimentary beer or wine, a bar menu and a chance to mingle with the artists. In conjunction with the local Makers Market, the Kinder Padon Gallery Small Works Show will be the perfect place to start your holiday shopping.
Cookbook club: Ottolenghi Comfort
As part of our extended programming from the Crested Butte Wine + Food Festival, we’re bringing a fun twist to gathering at the Center for the Arts. Join us Nov. 8 from 5-7
Coraline clay + cider spritz
Perfect for fans of the fantastical and the slightly eerie, this class on Oct. 19 from 5-8 p.m. offers a creative escape where you can craft unique, Coralineinspired clay pieces. Enjoy a festive Apple Cider Spritz with registration! Non-Alcoholic options are also available. 21+ first beverage complimentary + light snacks available.
p.m. for a collaborative potluck inspired by Ottolenghi Comfort. Pick up a copy at Townie Books or borrow ours, sign up for a dish and bring your creation to share. We’ll handle the table and wine—it’s a fun way to enjoy food, conversation, and inspiration with fellow food lovers! The cost is $25.
Taylor Nation tribute show
On Nov. 15 at 7 p.m., prepare to embark on a thrilling musical odyssey that spans the entire spectrum of Taylor Swift's illustrious career. Taylor Nation, the premier live band sing-along tribute, invites you to join us on a remarkable journey through the eras of Taylor Swift's momentous musical evolution. A portion of the proceeds will benefit the Crested Butte Community School PTA. The cost is $35+.
A review of summer 2024
Bruce ‘Barometer’ Bartleson Special to the Times
Since it’s somewhat past the beginning of autumn (Sept. 22), a review of this summer’s weather is in order.
Not surprisingly, we didn’t fare too badly in view of most of our neighboring towns, especially regarding high temperatures. For example, our high temperatures (Tmax) for the combined summer months of June, July and August averaged just 78.5 degrees, compared to our long-term (over 120 years) average of 78.56 degrees.
July, our hottest month, showed an average of 79.5
degrees for Tmax. This is cooler than many of our neighboring towns’ average temperatures. Our average temperature for the entire summer was 61.2 degrees, compared to our longterm average of 58.93 degrees.
However, the most impressive figure this summer was our overnight low temperatures, which averaged 43.8 degrees — over 4 degrees warmer than the long-term average of 39.7.
Readers of this column might recall that this is a clear indicator of climate change.
Are we better off than most places? In July, Grand Junction showed an average Tmax of 98 degrees with 10 days over 100 degrees and an overall average temperature of 83, — 4.4 degrees higher than our high temperature average. Montrose had an average Tmax of 90.7 degrees in July, compared to our 79.5.
Moab, Utah showed an average Tmax of 101.8 degrees in July. Denver had its second hottest summer on record with
Celestial happenings
multiple 100-degree days and set a record with an 89 degrees on Oct. 2. Let’s not even talk about Phoenix and Las Vegas with their 100-plus days in a row of 100-degree weather.
As far as precipitation, we also didn’t fare too badly. Here in town, at the West Ruby Avenue station, June had 1.55 inches of rain. July was dry with only 0.59 inches, but August was a pleasant surprise with a rainfall of 2.96 inches of rain.
This amounts to a total of 5.10 inches compared to our long-term average of 5.58 inches of rain for the combined summer months. This number is in contrast to the major drought which is affecting most of this region and especially along the Front Range. See the droughtmonitor.unl.edu for more information.
(Bruce Bartleson is a retired emeritus professor of geology at Western Colorado University. He spends most of his time now watching the weather.)
The Gunnison night sky put on a show for cosmic enthusiasts last week. Pink and green northern lights danced overhead on Thursday night following a powerful solar flare earlier in the week. The following evening, comet C/2023 A3 (Tsuchinshan-ATLAS) appeared in the sky just above the western horizon. The comet was last visible 80,000 years ago, when Neanderthals still roamed the earth.
No Dig Moratorium
The City of Gunnison will begin the No Dig Moratorium effective November 20, 2024.
Effective November 20, 2024 no excavation will be allowed in the City right-of-way until further notice. The Moratorium will be lifted when the ground thaws in Spring 2025.
ROW permits for the 2024 season must be submitted to the City no later than November 6 at 5 p.m.
(Photo by Mariel Wiley)
Cowboys finish with 8-game win streak
Softball poised for postseason redemption
Alex McCrindle Times Sports Editor
It is a dream scenario for the GHS softball team.
After starting the season 3-8, and splitting doubleheaders with league rivals MotezumaCortez and Meeker, the Cowboys bounced back to a 13-10 winning record. The girls capped off their regular season with an astounding, eightgame win streak, concluding on Oct. 12 with a doubleheader victory over Basalt.
Now, GHS sits third place in the 3A Western Slope League in a three-way-tie with Delta and Cedaredge. The Cowboys will have a chance to advance past the first round of the playoffs for the first time in over 10 years this upcoming Saturday. It all comes down to an opening postseason game against the Resurrection Christian Cougars on Oct. 19.
“We’re pretty excited heading into the playoffs,” said Head Coach Leslie DiLorenzo.
“We’ve talked about making sure we’re on the climb as we near the end of the season, and it’s been our goal all year to make it through this opening round.”
On Oct. 12, the Cowboys were met with an ideal opportunity. Beating the Basalt Longhorns in an away doubleheader would secure a thirdplace finish in the league, improving the Cowboys’ seed for the playoffs.
The girls made no mistake.
In the opening matchup, leadoff batter Caroline Sudderth crossed home three times, and notched four hits in four plate appearances. Sisters Maddie and Josie Vollendorf were crucial at the heart of the order. Maddie earned a double and a triple, knocking in three runs. Josie capitalized on her impressive freshman season with two singles and a triple.
On defense, Reese Japuntich led GHS on the mound. The sophomore pitcher has been a key factor in the girls winning streak, and gave up only six runs to the Longhorns in the opening game. The hot bats prevailed, and it ended 19-6 for the Cowboys.
“Although we finished the regular season against teams
that weren’t necessarily tough, we were putting teams away, and seeing things from the girls that we’ve only seen spurts of all year,” DiLorenzo said. “I’m most impressed with the leadership, and our girls just having fun, relaxing and playing.”
In the second game, and final regular season matchup of the season, Isabella Crown returned to the mound. The senior led the defense, striking
out four batters and walking zero to frustrate the Longhorns bench.
Again, the Cowboy bats came to life. A double from Kylee McDougal and another triple from Maddie Vollendorf lit up the away dugout.
Japuntich finished the game going 4-4 at the plate, while Crown knocked in two RBI’s and junior Maddy Bacalis knocked in a pair. It ended 18-7
for the Cowboys, and moved GHS to an 8-4 league record. Now, the girls head into the postseason ranked No. 18. The team will face off against No. 15 Resurrection Christian in Strasburg on Sept. 19.
(Alex McCrindle can be contacted at 970.641.1414 or alex@ gunnisontimes.com.)
‘If you build it, they will come’
Girls soccer blossoms in Gunnison
Alex McCrindle Times Sports Editor
Western Colorado University professor Kanae Haneishi ran around Meadow’s Park with her U10 soccer team on Oct. 10. The fallen cottonwood leaves marked the end of the season, and players celebrated a hardfought year of growth and newfound skills.
For Haneishi, youth coaching is another addition to her already extensive soccer career.
The former Japanese National Team player reached the pinnacle of the women’s game. But now, she’s traded in her boots for a whistle, and has been pivotal in growing the girls soccer program in the Gunnison Valley.
A year ago, girls soccer was practically nonexistent in the South Valley. Club players either competed with boys in Gunnison, or trekked up to Crested Butte multiple times a week for practice. But after Haneishi pitched her idea to Wendy Buckhanan at the Gunnison Rec Center, and volunteered to coach, a U10-U12 mixed team was born. Now, one Soccer B9
Coach Kanae Haneishi leads the girls in a cheer at the end of practice. (Photos by Mariel Wiley)
Maddie Vollendorf reaches second base against Florence on Sept. 28. (Photo by Mariel Wiley)
Western air attack dominant against Black Hills State
Mountaineer football remains undefeated
Gregg Petcoff Special to the Times
The Rocky Mountain Athletic Conference's top rushing attack turned to the air on Saturday, as No. 8 Western Colorado University threw for four touchdowns in a 35-14 win over Black Hills State University.
The Mountaineers accumulated 399 yards through the air. Quarterback Drew Nash connected on 34 of 45 pass attempts for 346 yards and three touchdowns.
Western's offense got into gear with its second possession of the game, driving to the Yellow Jackets' 26-yard line before the drive stalled. The Mountaineers lined up for a field goal attempt, but the kick was blocked and returned for a Yellow Jacket touchdown. It was Western's first deficit since the second game of the season.
That seven-point hole faded quickly, as Nash pushed the offense down the field. He first connected with tight end Daniel Parsek for 9 yards, followed by a 65-yard touchdown to Victory David.
The Mountaineers exploded for three touchdowns in the second quarter, converting consecutive Yellow Jacket turnovers. The first was a six play, 80-yard drive, capped by a 53-yard touchdown pass from wide receiver Sage Yazzie to a wide-open Josiah Ayon. Nash tossed a long lateral out to Yazzie, who found Ayon downfield for the easy score.
A fumble on Black Hill’s next play gave Western the ball at the opposing 20-yard line. Royce Pao took a handoff and sprinted untouched off the right tackle for a 20-yard touchdown gallop.
The Yellow Jackets then threw an interception on their next offensive play, giving the ball back to the Mountaineer offense at its own 43-yard line.
Western used 1:59 of the time remaining to finish off a touchdown drive on a 12-yard Nash
to Yazzie pass. Black Hills State finally put together a scoring drive late in the third quarter, but were stymied the rest of the way.
After a fourth down, Yellow Jacket incompletion, Western scored one more touchdown on the short field. Nash completed a 4-yard pass to Parsek to close the day's scoring.
The victory secured a 6-0 start to the Mountaineers season, and a 4-0 RMAC record. Next up, Western will host South Dakota Mines in a “Red Out” game at the Mountaineer Bowl on Oct. 19 at 1 p.m.
(Gregg Petcoff is the assistant athletics director for communications at Western Colorado University and can be reached at gpetcoff@western.edu.)
Drew Nash slings a pass in the away victory over Black Hills State. (Courtesy Western Colorado University)
3
Mustang runners gallop to undefeated season
The GMS cross country teams added another feather to their caps at the Salida Cross Country Classic on Oct. 5. The boys team concluded the season with five meet victories, while the girls finished on the podium in every competition. On the boys side, Asher Chodorowski, Brandon Hallock, Ari Eberly, Alder Lamar, Houston Stair, Blake Hill and Jack Siegrist led the way to an undefeated season. The girls’ crowning achievement was taking first place at the MountaineerCowboy invite last month. Sophie Nold, Lily Mcelyea, Eliza Wickenhauser, Brailey Adkins, Autumn Terry, Brynna Rota and Jordan Callahan led the girls through an impressive fall season.
The GMS girls team at the Salida finish line.
The Mustang boys team celebrates with the Salida trophy. (Courtesy Melissa Post)
GHS football endures Alamosa loss
Cowboys fall to 0-6 record
Alex McCrindle Times Sports Editor
It has been dark days for the GHS football team. Still, the Cowboys are pushing ahead despite injuries and setbacks. The boys lost to Alamosa 44-15 on Oct. 11, moving the team’s overall record to 0-6, and 0-2 in the 2A Intermountain League.
“All week we preached the philosophy of ‘We have nothing to lose and everything to gain,’” said Head Coach Paul Vickers. “We took that approach because I think it takes a lot of pressure off the kids.”
Against the Alamosa Mean Moose on Saturday, the Cowboys relied on more underclassmen, who suited up to replace injured starters Kleber Flores, Nolan Frymoyer, Fraser Birnie and Holden Vickers. The Mean Moose took advantage of the Cowboys limited depth in the first half, taking a substantial, 16-0 lead.
At the half, Coach Vickers made a number of key changes to revamp his offense.
Sophomore quarterback Jorge Perez shifted to wide receiver, and senior Talon Kibler took the reins under center. As a starting pitcher for the GHS baseball
Soccer from
B6
year later, the program has ballooned into three teams with almost 40 players combined, and is growing at an exponential rate.
“It was a, ‘If you build it, they will come’ moment,” said U15 coach Jodi Lindner. “It’s been really cool to see the growth of soccer in general, but also for the girls who have been playing with boys to play with us for the first time.”
When Haneishi moved to Gunnison as an exercise and sports science professor at Western, soccer was a key factor that connected her to new communities. She had coached for the Mount Holyoke College women’s team in Massachusetts for 13 years. Prior to coaching, she captained the New York Magic semi-professional team, and won a silver medal with the Japanese National Team at the 2003 World University Games.
But to her surprise, Gunnison seemed barren of women’s soccer. Outside of the Mountaineers women’s team, Gunnison lacked a youth pipeline, and any form of girls club soccer. With seemingly low interest, Haneishi stepped out on a limb, and took a chance on the girls program.
In the first season, the U10U12 mixed team relied on scrimmages to improve skills, such as passing and shooting technique. More players continued to sign up, parents volunteered to coach and the
team, Kibler revived the passing game, and also utilized Perez on jet sweep and reverse plays.
The change brought a new rhythm to the Cowboys’ offense, and Kibler immediately showed off his cannon with a 40-yard completion to senior receiver Oliver Parker. Grady Buckhanan led the GHS offense, picking up
program blossomed into three, age-assigned teams this fall.
In 2024, the U10 and U12 teams competed in the local league, while Lindner’s U15 team scrimmaged against Crested Butte and Montrose. Girls with little soccer experience continued to sign up for the first time, and all three teams rostered between 12 and 15 players. Now Lindner and Haneishi are hopeful of founding older teams, and maybe even a Gunnison High School team down the road.
For Haneishi, soccer has always been a tool to inspire the next generation of girls in athletics.
“We needed to create a safe space for girls to grow and learn,” she said. “It didn’t have to be through soccer, but my background is in the sport, and I’ve loved using soccer as a vehicle to empower girls.”
(Alex McCrindle can be contacted at 970.641.1414 or alex@ gunnisontimes.com.)
155 yards and two touchdowns from the backfield. But the Mean Moose attack was unrelenting, and the game ended 44-15 for Alamosa. With an unprecedented amount of injuries taking its toll, the Cowboys will grit their teeth in the final three matchups of the season. The boys will
aim for their first win against Pagosa Springs on Oct. 18, take a roadtrip to face Bayfield on Oct. 26 and finish at home to Salida on Nov. 1.
“My hope is these guys continue to play as a team, because we all have to endure this together,” Coach Vickers said. “There is a lot of resilience on this team that will push us forward.”
(Alex McCrindle can be contacted at 970.641.1414 or alex@ gunnisontimes.com.)
The Cowboys regroup during a timeout against the Panthers. (Photo by Mariel Wiley)
The U15 team stretches.
Soccer recovers against Alamosa
The GHS soccer team bounced back from a league defeat to Telluride with a 1-0 away victory over Alamosa on Oct. 10. Sophomore midfielder Eli Coop made all the difference, scoring the only goal of the contest and moving the Cowboys to a 5-7-1 overall record. The boys currently sit third in the league, behind Telluride and Crested Butte. The team will conclude regular season play with its final home game against Telluride at 11 a.m. on Oct. 19, before facing Delta on the road on Oct. 24.
Faith Directory
Bethany Church
909 N Wisconsin St. (behind Powerstop) • 970-641-2144
Two services at 9 a.m. and 10:30 a.m.
FREE lunch for college students following the 10:30 a.m. service gunnisonbethany.com
9 a.m.: Family Service with nursery & children’s church
Check out our website for updates! Or download our app on the App Store by searching, Gunnison Bethany.
B'nai Butte Jewish Congregation
PO Box 2537 Crested Butte, CO 81224 305-803-3648 bnaibutte@gmail.com
Serving the Jewish communities of Crested Butte, Gunnison and surrounging areas.
Faith leader: Rabbi Mark Kula is available for you at RabbiMarkKula@gmail.com bnaibutte.org
New Song Christian Fellowship
77 Ute Lane • 970-641-5034
A Christ Centered Gospel Sharing Community where we want to be part of a community who encourage and support one another in our spiritual journey.
Meeting Second-Fifth Sundays at 5 p.m., Holy Eucharist, Rite II
403 Maroon Ave, Crested Butte
Visit our website for location of 11 a.m. Holy Eucharist, First Sunday of each month allsaintsinthemountains.org
Church in the Barn 8007 County Road 887 Waunita Hot Springs Ranch • 970-641-8741 Sundays, 10:30 a.m.
Non Denominational Come as you are.
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.
The Cowboys line up ahead of the Crested Butte clash on Oct. 2. (Photos by Mariel Wiley)
Eli Coop controls possession.
Marmolejo lines up a direct kick against the Titan’s wall.
Middle schoolers on the move
Gunnison sixth graders set out on their annual W Mountain hike earlier this month. Western Colorado University professor Lynn Sikkink met the students at the summit on Oct. 1 for a tour of the 10,000-year-old archeological sites near the top of the mountain.
