The Orchard City Town Board has agreed by resolution to participate in a multi-jurisdictional agreement that it is hoped may bring federal “stimulus” money here.

The town’s resolution, adopted on Oct. 14, authorizes it to enter into an understanding with other local governments and utility providers to form a “regional energy efficiency resource conservation organization.”

Money would be distributed among 15 state regions through the Colorado Governor’s Energy Office for a wide range of energy conservation and production initiatives, explained Mayor Don Suppes.

One of the 15 regions being designated under the state program is comprised of Delta and Montrose counties.

“Rather than have individual communities come to the governor’s office asking for money, they wanted it set up to be handled on a regional level,” Suppes explained.

The Delta/Montrose region will be comprised of eight board members: One each from Delta and Montrose counties; one each from the cities of Delta and Montrose; and, one each from Surface Creek Valley, North Fork Valley, Olathe, and the West End.

Trustee Cherrie Gilliam asked, “How are these representatives appointed?”

Suppes replied, “It will be decided upon by our board and the Cedaredge Town Board.”

The Surface Creek Valley representative will be chosen jointly by the towns of Cedaredge and Orchard City, Suppes explained.

Also included in the organization will be members appointed by DMEA, San Miguel Power, and Source Gas. The two electric utilities have put up front money to get the regional board established, Suppes said.

“This will give us a seat at the table and a voice to be heard when the money does start coming. Because the Governor’s Energy Office will be handling any federal “stimulus funds” that come to the state of Colorado. And this is not just limited to “stimulus funds,” it also includes anything that comes from within the state that goes through the Energy Office.”

The town trustees had an unenthusiastic response to the idea. Trustee Jerald Brunemeier suggested jokingly that Orchard City be allowed board members representing Austin, Cory and Eckert.

Nevertheless, the trustees gave their unanimous approval to Trustee Len Johnson’s motion and Gilliam’s second to adopt the resolution that approves the town’s participation in the memorandum of understanding.

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