Otto New Mayor for Granada

Mayor Pro-Tem, Glenn Otto, took his oath of office as Granada Mayor during the Trustees monthly meeting, Wednesday, November 9^th.  As pro tem, he assumed the seat vacated by former Mayor, C.F. DeForest when he resigned after moving out of the district.  Argie Thrall was appointed the new Mayor Pro-Tem by unanimous consent of the Trustees at the outset of the meeting.

During the light agenda, the Trustees confirmed the general election vote for the community, rejecting the proposed sale of the electric utilities to Southeast Colorado Power Association for the second time. The vote, according to town clerk, Jackie Malone, was 105 opposed to 48 in favor of the sale agreement initiated by SECPA earlier in the year.

With that, Trustee Deb Choate suggested the board review what potential cuts can be made to the 2017 budget for Granada. “Do we have any areas in which we can make some savings?” she asked, referring to the earlier discussions of how the town would be able to pay its bills in subsequent years if the utility franchise were sold.  Otto, referenced that the town puts a monthly allotment from utility payments into a reserve for future repairs.  He noted that the Trustees need to investigate if there are grants available which could cover the cost of street light replacements.

The Trustees decided the discussion of cutting down trees on private property along Walnut Street should be left between the property owner and a private citizen who approached the town about the project. They left open the possibility that the town could haul away the unwanted tree sections if they were asked.

After considerable discussion regarding permission to hold a private dance at the old Prairie Rose later this month, the Trustees denied the request and tabled action on any future requests until they resolved the issue of a curfew and security for the events which would allow alcohol to be consumed, but not sold during the event. Police Chief David Dougherty said he had spoken to the organizer who was scheduled to appear at the Wednesday night meeting to discuss safety concerns.

In other action the Trustees approved the rental of the Complex for Saturday, November 19^th for St. Mary’s Bazaar and for the arena for a Coyote Calling Meeting on the 18^th and a calling contest on the evening of the 19^th.  The final Trustee’s regular meeting of the year is set for Wednesday, December 7^th at 6:30pm.

By Russ Baldwin