by Brian Manning
WALSENBURG — The Huerfano County Republican meeting opened to a full house last Tuesday evening. Party chair Debi Sporleder called the meeting to order and began with an Invocation and the Pledge of Allegiance. She announced there are four Republican candidates for governor and one, Greg Lopez, will be at La Plaza Inn in Walsenburg on May 18 at 3 pm to discuss his candidacy. All are encouraged to attend.
Sporleder then called for reports. County commissioner Ray Garcia said they are looking at a possible industrial park in the northern part of the town. He also reported that CDOT would be repaving Route 69 and doing bridge repairs, so there will be delays. They are also looking for funding for a new judicial center.
County commissioner Max Vezzani reported Black Hills Energy is looking to put more windmills north of the Huerfano River, which would be more money for the county. Vezzani was asked about Sonic Bloom and what restrictions apply. He said that they were limited to 8,000 cars and other restrictions still apply.
Ron Nielson reported for the LaVeta Fire Board, saying there have already been some wildfires and we need rain because it looks like a bad year for fires. He also reported for the hospital board and said it was important the mill level passes. He also said the veterans home has some open beds which is lost revenue.
Sandy White reported for the planning commision and said the master plan was being updated. He also reported for the water district and said the snow pack was only 6% and that more water storage is needed.
David Tesitor reported that Huerfano RE-1 School District is making a deal with a charter school that will benefit the district and allow students to earn an associates degree while still in high school. He said that the district hired two new teachers.
Sporleder announced people will be needed to staff the Republican booth at La Veta’s Art in the Park. She also reminded people the Lincoln Dinner will be on September 15 and that everyone should save the date. Also, to show your support for our country, wave the American Flag on Saturday May 26 at 10 am at exit 49. Let travelers know we support our country.
The next Republican meeting will be on Tuesday, June 12. All Republicans are encouraged to attend this meeting since these are very important times for our country.
