Rifle City Council unanimously approved Thomas Klein as the city’s next chief of police June 17, capping a hiring process that drew 16 applicants and two finalists through a two-day vetting process that included public open houses and panel interviews.
City Manager Patrick Waller recommended Klein, who has prior ties to the community. Klein will take the oath of office after completing a background check, with a targeted start date of late July. Lieutenant Mike Kuper has served as interim chief since Chief Debra Funston’s retirement in April.
Council also approved a $238,194 purchase order for the seven-party Garfield County Older Adult Programs MOU — $13,194 above the budgeted $225,000. Senior Center staff said rising meal and transportation costs drove the overage, which the general fund can absorb without a budget supplement.
Council authorized city staff to submit a USDA Rural Business Development Grant application for the Rifle Business Incubator Project, targeting roughly $100,000 — $20,000 for design and $80,000 for construction — to build out co-working and office space in the former Witt & Co. building. The grant application deadline is June 30.
Council approved a $20,000 agreement with SGM Engineering to inspect and rate the four golf cart bridges spanning Rifle Creek at Rifle Creek Golf Course, following a CIRSA insurance assessment recommendation.
Council approved Councilor Chris Bornholdt to fill a newly created seat on the expanded Rifle Regional Economic Development Corporation board.
On the code side, council passed first readings of two municipal code amendments: Ordinance No. 14 legalizing standalone automotive repair shops in commercial and industrial zones, and Ordinance No. 15 making attached garages optional rather than required for new single-family homes.
During public comment, two residents urged council to preserve Hogback Bus Service, which faces a November 21 shutdown after Garfield County cut funding. City Manager Waller said a cost-sharing proposal with the Town of Silt is in development. A local business owner also raised concerns about insufficient advance notice during Park Avenue Bridge construction disruptions; Waller committed to direct outreach for impacted businesses.
Lieutenant Kuper warned residents that fire conditions are extreme, with Stage 2 restrictions likely next week, and urged caution with fireworks ahead of the Fourth of July.
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