Archuleta County commissioners unanimously approved a $350,000 Community Development Block Grant application at their March 3 meeting to extend three-phase power infrastructure to the Colonial Park area through a public-private partnership with Forest Health Timber Products. The grant, administered by the Colorado Department of Local Affairs, aims to create jobs for low and moderate income residents while reducing county infrastructure costs. The board adopted Resolution 2026-23 authorizing the chair to sign all necessary grant documents. Commissioners also proclaimed March as Women’s History Month, approved a special use permit for an upgraded Big Picture Classic disc golf tournament in May, and renewed a liquor license for Shanghai Restaurant.
Infrastructure Grant Advances Public-Private Partnership
The grant application supports extending three-phase power to the Colonial Park area as part of the Forest Health Timber Products project, with county staff spending months preparing the application for submission to the Colorado Department of Local Affairs. The infrastructure improvements advance county goals to extend power connections to desired locations while reducing overall county costs.
Commissioners said public-private partnerships are “the only way we’re going to get things done in this county.” Commissioner John Ranson called it a “nice deal for the county” that should benefit local business and the economy.
Women’s History Month Proclaimed
Commissioner Medina presented a proclamation declaring March 2026 as Women’s History Month in Archuleta County. The 2026 national theme, “Leading the Change: Women Shaping a Sustainable Future,” honors women reimagining systems for long-term environmental, economic, educational and social sustainability.
The proclamation recognizes women serving with distinction in county government, non-profit organizations, local businesses, first response agencies, schools and community initiatives. Following unanimous approval, women attendees joined commissioners for a commemorative photo.
Disc Golf Tournament Elevated to Tier A Status
Commissioners approved a special use permit for Four Corners Flyers Inc. to host the ninth annual Big Picture Classic disc golf tournament May 8-10 at Cloman Park. The event has been elevated to Tier A status by the Professional Disc Golf Association, the largest tournament classification in the country and the most prestigious level the organization has hosted.
Community De-Escalation Training Offered
During public comment, Judy Patton, co-founder of PIRAC (Proponents of Immigrant Rights in Archuleta County), announced free community de-escalation training March 18 from 6:30–7:30 PM. The virtual session led by the Right to Be organization will teach conflict resolution skills using the “Observe, Breathe, Connect” framework. The training is open to all residents regardless of political views.
Other Business
The board approved consent agenda items including letters of support for Pagosa Springs Medical Center, A Safe Place in Pagosa Inc., and Region 9 Economic Development. Commissioners also renewed a hotel and restaurant liquor license for Pagosa Shanghai Court, operating as Shanghai Restaurant, following inspections by the sheriff’s office and building department that found no issues.
Commissioners announced the next community forum will be held March 25 at 5 PM at Springs Resort to discuss the community plan and potential lodger’s tax funding for road improvements.
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