Alina Bell

Key discussions during the meeting included a successful initial meeting with the Grand County Commissioners, who reaffirmed their commitment as the Grand Champion sponsor for $20,000. The Board unanimously approved nominees for Pioneer of the Year and Citizen of the Year. The Treasurer's Report indicated strong financial health, with the operating account balance significantly increased over the previous year. The Board approved operating expenses, including a barrel wrap sponsorship, and approved hiring ML Photography for eight days of event coverage. Updates covered positive sponsorship progress, a volunteer recognition dinner, 4H enrollment numbers, and plans for facility improvements, including grant applications for rodeo equipment. Committee reports addressed exhibit hall prize money, the relocation of pie and cookie contests, changing the horseshoe contest date, and tabling the livestock sale location decision pending a committee meeting. A proposal was presented to feature the Buffalo Soldiers of the American West for an historical demonstration. Old business involved planning for live entertainment funding, potentially diverting funds from bounce houses to secure a major concert act. New business included scheduling planning meetings for a Kentucky Derby event and a fundraising golf tournament.

The Planning Commission meeting included the election of a new Chair and Vice Chair due to a temporary board member change. Key agenda items involved recommending approval for several Outright Exemptions: one for the Grand County Library District to create a 3.504-acre parcel for a new Kremmling Library, and another for the Estate of Pasquale Varra to create a 9.85-acre parcel for a private residence, with the remainder to be annexed for open space. The Commission also recommended approval for the final plat of 'The Collection at Winter Park Ranch,' a seven-unit townhome development, subject to several conditions including fee payments and providing updated legal documents. Furthermore, the Commission recommended approval for proposed amendments to the Grand County Zoning Regulations, primarily concerning the limitation of residential density near airport runway surfaces for safety. The meeting concluded with a discussion regarding the Master Plan update, public engagement strategies, and the creation of an Advisory Board.

The agenda for the meeting includes Finance items such as the redistribution of surplus administrative funds for Open Lands, Rivers and Trails, and the approval of weekly payments. Administrative business features departmental contracts and updates, including opposition by the County Assessor and Treasurer to HB26-1119 regarding split mill levy rates, an amendment to the Affordable Housing Restrictive Covenant for Miller's Inn, and the finalization of the Collective Bargaining Agreement. Other topics include a monthly report from the County Clerk and Recorder, an update on the Intech Software Solutions Modus Software Subscription, the County Manager's weekly update, discussion of the Animals in County Buildings Policy, an update from the Grand County Tourism Board, an Airport Staff and Advisory Committee quarterly update with board member appointments, a scheduled lunch meeting, and an Annual Update followed by a Strategic Planning Workshop for the Grand County Board of Health.

This document outlines Grand County's strategic priorities for 2025-2026, focusing on projects and programs designed to enhance the well-being, resilience, and prosperity of the community. The key strategic pillars include managing growth, operational efficiency, fostering a healthy community, and resource protection.

The meeting commenced with the President expressing enthusiasm for the upcoming year and outlining plans to present a recap of the 2025 Fair and 2026 plans to the Grand County Commissioners. A shadowing program for the next President will be implemented. The Treasurer's Report detailed current account balances. Key financial actions included the approval of expenses for calendars, membership, and rodeo sanctioning fees from the Operating Account, and the contingent approval of a Livestock Account payment for meat transportation, pending a reimbursement check. Updates covered the CSU Extension Agent status, fair coordinator activities like scheduling Beef Tag-in and selecting the fair book cover, and follow-up on grant opportunities for arena and chute upgrades. Committee reports addressed sponsorship packet distribution, scheduling of the Sale Committee meetings, and Royalty fundraising efforts. New business included the availability of new calendars and scheduling an additional planning meeting for the Kentucky Derby event, as it conflicts with the adult prom. The Board also discussed initiating a new fundraising opportunity via a golf tournament, possibly in Summit County, and Jordan Meeks' proposal for a three-part fundraising series for 2027.