During the Feb. 23 meeting, Fremont County Commissioners received a five-year comprehensive economic development plan of Southern Colorado Economic Development District (SCEDD) by Michael Yerman.

“Our primarily responsibility is update the economic development strategy (to various entities),” he said. “We are the conduit to the Economic Development Administration and EDA grant funding, which is a big pool in establishing new businesses in the valley. One thing we are moving on to is technical and grant assistance. We are seeing in rural counties especially the need for grant assistance.”

The other thing SCEDD planners are looking at is broadband planning and implementation.

“Covid-19 has shown us there is a big need,” Yerman said. “There's a regional group right now that is taking on broadband so we're currently working on potentially to fill that niche and provide that service. Housing is an issue across the entire region.”

On the eastern plains, lack of downtown development, mixed use development and access to capital are other issues SCEDD is working on.

“I just did a pitch to DOH (Department of Housing) to try to bring redevelopment funds to six counties on the plains to do low interest loans for actually do mixed use financing,” Yerman added.

Commissioner Debbie Bell announced they had brought Diana Armstrong, of the Fremont Economic Development Corporation, into the loop.

“I believe you will be reaching out to the municipalities to have those conversations with them,” Bell told Yerman. “Fremont County has not rejoined SCEDD as a dues paying member. This is kind of a trial run for us.”

She noted she had been frank about their experiences with SCEDD in the past, which were not good.

“We're a little bit gun shy right now,” Bell said. “But so far, I would say things seem to be working out. As you know, the future membership of Fremont County Commissioners as a dues paying member into SCEDD probably depends solely on this project. I anticipate seeing the best success that has ever come anywhere. I think it's going to be a great partnership and I expect to see great things.”

Commissioner Dwayne McFall and Commissioner Kevin Grantham also expressed interest improving broadband in this area.

In other business, the Commissioners tabled a proposal to expand the Phantom Canyon Landfill when Twin Enviro requested additional time to submit supplemental information about concerns raised by citizens in the public hearing and by the board in the Feb. 9 meeting.

“Supplemental information from the applicant would be helpful,” said Commissioner Dwayne McFall. “The Board of Commissioners wants the public to continue to be engaged in the process and provide input, and any extension of time from the applicant would conclude with another public hearing before the board makes a final decision on application for expansion.”

The Board set the next public hearing to be held at 10 a.m. June 8.