The Buena Vista Board of Trustees adopted a water conservation plan December 9 showing the town will exceed its water rights in 37 years, requiring tiered water pricing and restrictions on outdoor irrigation that drives summer use to triple winter levels.
Resolution No. 81, Series 2025, requires hiring a water conservation coordinator within two years and establishing landscape water budgets for large users. Water taps grew at 2.0% annually from 2012-2023, nearly double the 1.13% population growth, while summer irrigation pushes residential water use 2-3 times higher than winter.
The town’s water treatment capacity is expanding from 1.8 million gallons per day to 2.0 MGD, but demand will exceed firm water rights of 1.94 MGD by 2061. The plan includes rebates for low-flow toilets, showerheads, and faucet aerators, with free installation for low-income families and seniors funded through grants and town budget.
Board Opts Out of State Graywater Law
The board approved Ordinance No. 16, Series 2025, prohibiting graywater systems within town limits, opting out of House Bill 24-1362 due to water rights concerns and health risks. The ordinance takes effect 30 days after publication.
2026 Budget Adopted
The board adopted the 2026 budget through resolutions covering the fee schedule (No. 77), appropriations (No. 78 and 79), and property tax levy (No. 80).
Appointments and Consent Agenda
The board appointed John O’Brien to the Chaffee County Multijurisdictional Housing Authority (Resolution No. 76). Resolution No. 74 reappointed Chris Mertes, Mark Russell, and Ted Osowski while appointing Mike Allen to the Airport Advisory Board. Resolution No. 75 appointed Wendy Gordon to the Water Advisory Board.
The board approved minutes from the November 25 trustees meeting and advisory board meetings, along with department reports.
December 23 Meeting Canceled
The board canceled its December 23 meeting.
Town Clerk Interviews
The board interviewed Ed Barkowski, Deputy Town Clerk for 14 months, and Johannah Richards during a 6:00 PM work session. The board entered executive session to discuss negotiation strategy but did not announce a hiring decision. Town Clerk Paula Barnett is retiring after eight and a half years.
Board members thanked Barnett for her service.
Executive Sessions
The board held executive sessions on Town Clerk candidates and negotiation strategy (C.R.S. § 24-6-402(4)(e)) and to receive legal advice on short-term rental regulations (C.R.S. § 24-6-402(4)(b)).
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