High County Advocate Staff Report
BUENA VISTA, CO — November 12, 2025 At this week’s Board of Trustees meeting, Chris and Diane Williams delivered a sobering reminder of the growing water insecurity facing mountain residents. Their plea to reopen the Greg Drive water fill station—closed without notice in June—underscored a deeper infrastructure gap affecting those building homes at elevation.
“We’re trying to build a log home at 9,000 feet,” Chris Williams told the Board. “We got our county permit based on access to that station. When it shut down, we were left without water.”
Diane Williams added that neighbors have resorted to drilling second wells at costs exceeding $50,000—an option the couple cannot afford. For now, they rely on borrowed water.
“We’re asking for your mercy,” Diane said. “We don’t have another way.”
The Board acknowledged the urgency and promised to revisit the issue later in the meeting. No resolution was announced, but the Williams’ testimony—delivered with clarity and restraint—left a mark.
🎆 Fireworks Funding Under Scrutiny
During the budget hearing, trustees debated cutting $6,000 allocated for the town’s annual fireworks display, which supports the Sons of the American Legion’s Independence Day celebration. The proposal was part of a broader effort to reallocate discretionary spending toward essential services like mental health response.
Trustee Cindy and others emphasized that while the fireworks are a cherished tradition, they may not rank as a top priority in a tight budget year.
“The co-response is a higher priority,” one trustee said, comparing the fireworks to other potential cuts like the $17,000 drone park shade shelters and the $15,000 EDC contribution.
No final decision was made, but the discussion signaled a shift toward funding programs with measurable community impact.
🌱 Environmental Advisory Board Proposal Gains Momentum
Resident Tom Brown proposed the creation of a local Environmental Advisory Board, modeled after successful efforts in Boulder, Carbondale, and Westminster. The board would investigate pollution, promote sustainable planning, and serve as a liaison between the town and regional agencies.
“Please consider joining the communities who’ve made the smart decision to establish an environmental advisory board,” Brown urged.
His proposal included citizen science outreach, invasive species mitigation, and open space preservation. Trustees did not take immediate action but thanked Brown for the detailed framework.
🏛️ Historic Courthouse Seeks Annual Support
Suzy Kelly, representing Buena Vista Heritage, requested a standing $10,000 annual donation to support the 1882 courthouse. The nonprofit has raised $22,000 toward a $151,000 emergency electrical overhaul and has a strong track record of securing state historic grants.
“We’ve received nearly a million dollars in grants over the years,” Kelly said. “But we need consistent support to keep the courthouse safe and open.”
She emphasized the courthouse’s role as a year-round community hub, hosting lectures, weddings, school tours, and cultural events.
🏡 STR Waitlist Frustration Resurfaces
Remote speaker Andy Petrash, owner of a home at 760 East Pine Street, asked the Board to issue short-term rental licenses to residents who joined the waitlist before Ordinance No. 9 took effect. He clarified that the request does not challenge the ordinance’s legality, but seeks fair implementation.
“We’re just asking if it’s possible to issue licenses to those of us added to the waitlist before the ordinance went into effect,” Petrash said.
✈️ Airport Advisory Board: Emergency Role and 2026 Priorities
Chris Martez, speaking for the Airport Advisory Board, highlighted the airport’s role in wildfire response and medical evacuations. He praised the completion of the North Apron rehab and HVAC upgrades, and outlined 2026 priorities:
- Replacement of the aging Automated Weather Observation System (AWOS)
- Fuel system inspections and upgrades
- Phase two HVAC improvements
- Increased board engagement and quorum stability
“The airport saved lives this year,” Martez said. “We’re growing with the town, and we need to plan for major upgrades through 2030.”
🧠 Co-Response Program Seeks Funding Stability
Sarah Briggs, LCSW, presented the Chaffee County Co-Response program, which pairs law enforcement with mental health professionals. The program has reduced emergency system dependency and improved outcomes for vulnerable residents.
“It’s $320 a call,” Briggs explained. “But it’s worth its weight in gold when it keeps someone out of jail or the ER.”
Police Chief Morgan voiced strong support, citing success stories and reduced officer strain. Trustees discussed reallocating funds from fireworks, EDC contributions, and drone park amenities to support the program.
💰 CCCF Grant Process Streamlined for 2026
Betsy Dittenberg, Executive Director of the Chaffee County Community Foundation, requested $61,000 for the 2026 grant cycle. CCCF plans to consolidate multiple funding streams into a single, simplified process.
“We’ll prioritize BV organizations serving BV residents,” Dittenberg assured. “This is critical funding, not a luxury.”
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