2004

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Staff members present included Maryjo Downey, ECCOG executive director; Terry Baylie, Area Agency on Aging director; and Terry Blevins, Housing Improvement Program director. Guests present included Elbert County Commissioner Debra L. Paulson, Norm Happel and Lincoln County Commissioner Gary Beedy, all members of the Colorado East Community Action Agency Board of Directors; and Christy A. Graham, CECAA executive director.</div> <div>      The Minutes of the November 5, 2003 meeting were reviewed. Ron Rehfeld asked that the Minutes be amended on Page 3, in Transportation Outreach section, to state that "There is talk of the Union Pacific Railroad taking out rail sidings at many of the smaller towns along the main rail line." Pete Kjosness moved the Minutes be approved as amended. John Nichols seconded the motion, which carried unanimously.</div> <div>      Copies of the Financial Report were distributed. The total payroll for December was $25,311, and the total for bills listed for December was $124,608.40. Jo Downey said the bills include several Enterprise Zone contributions which were made payable to ECCOG, and then are "passed through" intact to the desired projects. Ron Rehfeld moved to approve the Financial Report for December and payment of the bills. John Nichols seconded the motion, which carried unanimously. </div> <div> <B><U>Unfinished Business:</U></b></div> <div> <B>Impact grant proposals</b></div> <div>      Energy and Mineral Impact Assistance grant applications submitted in December will go to hearing in March in Pueblo, and all of the applications from this region will be heard the same day. Proposals include drainage projects from Kit Carson and Lincoln counties, and three different proposals from Cheyenne County, including one in connection with a county-owned museum building, one from the Town of Cheyenne Wells, and one from the Kit Carson School District. The latter three proposals will be prioritized by the county commissioners. The deadline for the next round of applications is April 1, 2004, and probably an additional cycle with an October 1 deadline.</div> <div> <B>2004 Board of Directors</b></div> <div>      The first meeting of the new Board of Directors will be February 4, 2004. Present Board members Ambie Cullens and Jim Knox will not continue, and will be replaced by Rayetta Palmer of the Cheyenne Wells Town Board of Trustees and  Don MacLeod of the Burlington City Council, respectively. Larry Reeves of the Simla Town Board of Trustees and Patricia Vice, Mayor of Genoa, will continue to represent the municipalities in their respective counties next year. County representatives will be selected at each county's re-organization meeting later in January.</div> <div> <B>2004 Transit Funding Resolutions</b></div> <div>      Terry Baylie reported that the two funding resolutions and the contract signature pages were signed by Patricia Vice and sent to the Colorado Department of Transportation's Transit Unit December 24. A returned receipt indicated delivery of the documents December 30, but ECCOG has not yet received the contracts nor been advised when to expect them. </div> <div>      Terry reminded the commissioners on the ECCOG Board that each county needs to appoint a representative to the regional Transit Advisory Committee during the upcoming reorganization meeting. Present representatives are Richard Bergman of Cheyenne County, John Nichols of Kit Carson County, John Metli of Elbert County, and Pete Kjosness of Lincoln County.</div> <div> <B>Outback Express Change Order</b></div> <div>      Terry Baylie told the Board that the CDOT Transit Unit had notified her on December 10 that ECCOG could request the additional funds even though a contract change order had not been executed. The change order ultimately was received by ECCOG on December 26.</div> <div> <B>Child Care Center Sale</b></div> <div>      Limon Town Manager Joe Kiely informed the ECCOG Board that the U. S. Department of Agriculture, Rural Development, has offered a $300,000 loan to the town to assist with purchase of the Limon Child Development Center property from ECCOG. This loan would be repaid over 40 years at 4.75 percent interest. He said the Limon Town Board of Trustees would consider the loan offer and requirements at its meeting Thursday, January 8. Joe said the remaining $50,000 of the purchase price would come from federal Head Start program funds. Major staffing changes at Rural Development's regional office in Denver have contributed to delays in the loan process, Joe said, with major funding decisions now being made at the federal level in Washington, D. C. In response to a question from Jo Downey, Joe said it's possible that the sale can be closed within 60 days.</div> <div> <B>2003 Enterprise Zone Certification Summary</b></div> <div>      Jo Downey circulated copies of the 2003 Enterprise Zone contributions summary, the comparison of annual Enterprise Zone credit activity for the years 2001-2003, and the total Enterprise Zone certifications for 2003. She reminded the Board that information on the certification forms is now public information for credits claimed for tax years beginning on or after August 6, 2002.</div> <div> <B>Recent Bus Purchases/2004 Procurement Packages</b></div> <div>      The new Lincoln County bus arrived November 20 and the new Cheyenne County bus arrived December 8, Terry Baylie reported. Both buses have been put into service. Procurement packages for the new Kit Carson County buses arrived December 31, and ECCOG will begin the procurement process, even though the 2004 contracts have not been delivered. Delays encountered in past years due to late contract deliveries resulted in the Colorado Department of Transportation making arrangements for the procurement process to proceed earlier this year. Terry said she hopes the new buses will be delivered earlier, as well, possibly by mid-year.</div> <div> <B>Other Unfinished Business</b></div> <div>      Jo circulated copies of the new rack cards advertising Burlington's Old Town attraction and museum. These cards are part of a marketing materials update that has been underway for several months. New cards are expected soon for the Kit Carson County Carousel and for the Limon Heritage Museum, and cards will be ordered to advertise the Highway 86 corridor, once existing cards are out of stock.  The carousel rack card was completed last fall.</div> <div> <B><U>New Business:</U></b></div> <div> <B>Colorado East Community Action Appeal</b></div> <div>      The Colorado East Community Action Agency had applied for approximately $3,500 in Older Americans Act funds to provide health insurance counseling services again during 2004, but as the agency had no director at the time and administrative capacity was in question, the ECCOG Board voted in November to deny the application. Christy Graham has since been named to fill the executive director position with CECAA, and the agency has filed an appeal of the ECCOG Board's November decision. Ms. Graham met with an ECCOG staff committee on December 4, 2003 as the first step in the appeals process.</div> <div>      At that meeting, the staff recommendation to Ms. Graham was that CECAA work during 2004 to stabilize the administration of the agency, to provide more education to the CECAA Board, and to re-establish the integrity of the agency, and if successful, to apply for funding again for 2005. Ms. Graham said she is committed to these goals, but she said the agency needs the $3,500 in grant funds to maintain the limited services now offered by CECAA outreach workers. Ms. Graham requested a meeting with the ECCOG Board in January.</div> <div>      At the ECCOG Board meeting, Ms. Graham assured the Board that the CECAA executive director position is now stable, and she said several of the Board members have worked actively to help set the future direction of the agency. In response to a question about the end results of CECAA operations, she stated that the results from CECAA's primary administrative funding source, the federal Community Services Block Grant, are almost intangible. During her tenure as executive director, she hopes to develop a better reporting system that will demonstrate results and help rebuild the reputation of CECAA, and she hopes to re-implement older programs formerly offered by CECAA but stopped for reasons not readily understandable. She also hopes to expand CECAA into other, new programs.</div> <div>      CECAA markets its services through home visits, senior citizen center visits, contacts with social workers and word of mouth, she said. The agency needs to increase awareness of its services among the younger low-income population of the region.</div> <div>      Ms. Graham circulated a letter from one of her Board members, J. R. Eurich of Elbert County, and she invited those members of her Board in attendance at the meeting to speak. </div> <div>      Board member Norm Happel said the CECAA Board of Directors recognizes the agency's deficiencies, and steps are being taken to correct them. "But you don't make radical changes quickly," he said.</div> <div>      Gary Beedy told the ECCOG Board that CECAA provides services not available from other agencies; he used the NU-2-U thrift store in Limon as one example. Beedy said there needs to be more community involvement with the CECAA Board in the future.</div> <div>       Debra Paulson, a new member of the CECAA Board, said planned Board education and a new marketing strategy will help CECAA do a better job.</div> <div>       Ron Rehfeld moved the ECCOG Board reconsider its November 5 decision and approve the $3,500 grant to Colorado East Community Action Agency to provide insurance counseling during 2004. The motion was seconded by Pete Kjosness, and carried by a vote of 5 to 1, with John Nichols opposed.</div> <div>      Patricia Vice told the CECAA representatives that "This is a trial year."</div> <div> <B>Regional Transportation Plan "Open House"</b></div> <div>      The Eastern Transportation Planning Region will sponsor a "come and go" public meeting January 26 at the Limon Community Center from 4 to 7 p.m. to allow interested citizens to review drafts of the nine-county region's corridor visions, existing and projected traffic volumes, and preferred projects plan. These, as well as additional information pertaining to transportation needs for the four counties served by ECCOG and the five counties to the north will be included in the 2030 Regional Transportation Plan. Jo Downey said ECCOG will be providing news releases to the local media in an effort to help in getting members of the general public to attend the meeting.</div> <div>      Joe Kiely added that is "absolutely critical" that representatives from every county in the region attend, to help correct any data discrepancies that appear in the various projections. </div> <div>      Joe also informed the Board about the study being conducted by the Technical Advisory Committee for Rail. This study is investigating the feasibility of moving freight service from the Front Range to the east. Such a move would reroute trains from the I-25 corridor to Peoria, and then on to the Union Pacific line through Limon and Cheyenne Wells, or to a new rail line going south to Las Animas. Joe said this move could have a tremendous impact in terms of local residents seeing up to 32 freight trains a day passing through the towns.</div> <div> <B>Energy Outreach Colorado</b></div> <div>       Terry Baylie distributed and discussed the 2003 final report for the Energy Outreach Colorado program and a status report on the 2004 program, which began in November 2003. All local utility companies have been contacted and informed about the program, and Terry also has provided information to the Department of Human Services in Cheyenne County. In late December, ECCOG was notified that additional funds would be available for January in anticipation of increase utility costs this winter. As applications were due January 6, ECCOG staff decided to apply for an additional $1,500, based on prior usage and anticipated expenditures through February.  If the grant is approved, the money will be used to assist clients through January, to make sure that original funding is still available for the critical winter months of March and April.  Any unused supplemental funds will be applied to the second original grant payment.</div> <div> <B>Other</b></div> <div>      Jo Downey distributed copies of the new <I>Colorado Edge</I> magazine, and pointed out Prairie Development Corporation's half-page advertisement benefiting all four of Colorado's Central Plains counties. The shelf life of this advertisement is two years, she said.</div> <div>      A nominating committee will be needed to propose a slate of officers to guide the ECCOG Board through 2004, to be elected at the February meeting. Patricia Vice will appoint the nominating committee after the four sets of county commissioners appoint their ECCOG Board representatives for this year.</div> <div>      For the Board's information, Joe Kiely briefly discussed the agreement between the State of Colorado and the Colorado Rural Development Council allowing CRDC to fill the statutory role of the Office of Rural Development. The Department of Local Affairs is providing office space for the CRDC executive director, along with some part-time support staff, and last May, the state gave a $30,000 Energy Impact Assistance grant to the Town of Limon which was passed through to CRDC for operations. In November, 2003, DOLA increased funding for the Rural Development program by $330,000, to implement a real time broadband project in the San Luis Valley. That funding also was granted to the Town of Limon, and passed through to CRDC, he said.</div> <div> <B>February meeting date/time</b></div> <div>      The next meeting of the East Central Council of Local Governments Board of Directors will be Wednesday, February 4, 2004 at Limon.</div> <div> <B>Adjournment</b></div> <div> <B>     </b><FONT SIZE="3" COLOR="#000000" FACE="Palatino Linotype" >There being no further business, Patricia Vice declared the meeting adjourned at 9:15 p.m.</FONT></div> <bR> <bR> <div> <A HREF="#2004_eccog_minutes" TITLE="2004"><U><U>top of page</U></U></A></div> <bR> <bR> <bR> <bR> <bR> <bR> <bR> <bR> <bR> <bR> <bR> <bR> <bR> <bR> <bR> <bR> <bR> <bR> <bR> <bR> <bR> <bR> <DIV ALIGN="LEFT"></DIV> <div> <B> <A NAME="feb_2004"><IMG BORDER="0" SRC="1x1.gif" HEIGHT="1" ALIGN="bottom" WIDTH="1" HSPACE="0" VSPACE="0" ></A></b><FONT SIZE="3" COLOR="#000000" FACE="Palatino Linotype" ><B>The meeting of the </b></FONT></div> <div> <B>East Central Council of Local Governments</b></div> <div> <B>Board of Directors in February 2004 was cancelled due</b></div> <div> <B>to inclement weather and was not rescheduled.</b></div> <bR> <bR> <div> <A HREF="#2004_eccog_minutes" TITLE="2004"><U><U>top of page</U></U></A></div> <bR> <bR> <bR> <bR> <bR> <bR> <bR> <bR> <bR> <bR> <bR> <bR> <bR> <bR> <bR> <bR> <bR> <bR> <DIV ALIGN="LEFT"></DIV> <div> <B> <A NAME="mar_2004"><IMG BORDER="0" SRC="1x1.gif" HEIGHT="1" ALIGN="bottom" WIDTH="1" HSPACE="0" VSPACE="0" ></A></b><FONT SIZE="3" COLOR="#000000" FACE="Palatino Linotype" ><B>East Central Council of Local Governments</b></FONT></div> <div> <B>Board of Directors Meeting Minutes</b></div> <div> <B>March 3 , 2004</b></div> <bR> <div> The East Central Council of Governments’ Board of Directors met on March 4, 2004 at the Limon Town Hall for their annual Reorganizational Meeting followed by their regularly scheduled monthly meeting.  Those present for both meetings included board members John Metli, Larry Reeves, Rayetta Palmer, Patricia Vice, Pete Kjosness and Ron Rehfeld.  Others in attendance were Jo Downey, ECCOG Executive Director; Terry Baylie, ECCOG Senior Services Director; Joe Kiely, Limon Town Administrator; and Virginia Hubbell, ECCOG staff member.</div> <bR> <div> <B><U>Annual Reorganizational Meeting</U></b><B>:</b></div> <div> Though the annual reorganizational meeting is usually held in February, ECCOG’s February meeting was canceled due to inclement weather.  Chairperson Patricia Vice called the meeting to order at 7:05 p.m.  After introductions, it was noted that the 2003 ECCOG officers were Patricia Vice, Chairman; Pete Kjosness, Vice-Chairman; John Nichols, Treasurer; and Ambie Cullens, Secretary.  All but Ambie continue as board representatives for their respective entities for 2004 along with John Metli and John Nichols.  New board member Rayetta Palmer, representing the Cheyenne County municipalities, was welcomed.  The Kit Carson County municipal representative slot is currently vacant.</div> <bR> <div> Pete Kjosness, Chairman of the nominating committee, gave his report.  The Committee recommended that Patricia Vice continue as the Chairperson of the Board, Pete Kjosness continue as Vice-Chairman, John Nichols continue as Treasurer, and that John Metli serve as Secretary.  Pete Kjosness moved that the report be accepted and that those placed in nomination be elected to serve as ECCOG’s 2004 officers which was seconded by Ron Rehfeld.  There being no further nominations, this motion carried unanimously.</div> <bR> <div> There being no further business, the Reorganizational Meeting was adjourned by Patricia Vice at 7:10 p.m.</div> <bR> <div> <B><U>Regular Monthly Meeting</U></b><B>:</b></div> <div> Chairperson Patricia Vice called the regular monthly meeting to order at 7:10 p.m. on March 4, 2004.  Pete Kjosness moved to accept the minutes of the last meeting (January 7, 2004) as submitted; seconded by Ron Rehfeld; motion carried unanimously.  Copies of the Financial Report were distributed and reviewed.  Jo Downey briefly explained the purpose of various ECCOG program accounts.  Payroll for March 3, 2004 totaled $25,774.83 and the total for bills listed for February was $65,177.39.  Ron Rehfeld moved to approve the financial report and payment of the bills as presented; seconded by John Metli; motion carried unanimously.</div> <bR> <div> <B><U>Unfinished Business</U></b><B>:</b></div> <div> <B>Impact Grant Hearings</b></div> <div> Jo Downey reported that there were five applications from the region for Energy Impact Fund grants for the cycle that ended December 1st.  Hearings are scheduled for those projects on March 10th in Denver.  Kit Carson County is applying for Impact funds to assist with constructing a drainage system that will alleviate flooding at the fairgrounds and surrounding areas, Cheyenne County for assistance in repairing and remodeling a county-owned building for use as a public museum, Lincoln </div> <div> County for drainage repairs around the courthouse including some landscaping and repair and overlay of their parking area, and Cheyenne Wells for purchase of a dilapidated trailer park which will be landscaped with walkways to improve the appearance of their community.  The Kit Carson School has also applied for Impact funds to assist with upgrades and maintenance improvements.  Jo noted that if there is more than one entity within the same county applying for funds in the same cycle, they no longer need to be ranked as to their priority status.  The deadline for the next cycle of funding is April 1, 2004.  Those considering applications for this cycle include the Town of Stratton for a master drainage study for the town, Cheyenne County to assist with purchase of vehicles for their coroner and sheriff,  Elbert County is seeking funds for a new communications center, and Limon will be preparing a proposal for additional water improvements.  The Arriba Fire District (East Lincoln) is considering a proposal later on in the year as is Simla.</div> <bR> <div> <B>2004 Board of Directors</b></div> <div> Jo Downey explained the re-selection process for determining the 2004 municipal board representative for Kit Carson County.  The person selected recently resigned his position on the Burlington City Council, thus it was necessary to go through the nominating process again.  Stratton and Burlington both nominated one of their council members and ballots have been sent to the six municipalities in Kit Carson County.  Until these ballots are returned, the ECCOG Board of Directors is currently a board of seven.  In case of a tie vote, the County Commissioners would be asked to break the tie.</div> <bR> <div> <B>Outback Express 2004 Contracts</b></div> <div> Terry Baylie reported that the contracts for operating, administration and capital equipment were signed on February 20th.  East Central COG can only request reimbursement from the date of the contract forward.  Therefore, rather than request reimbursement for just a few days in February, staff has determined that no reimbursement will be requested for February.  ECCOG will begin requesting funds beginning with March services.  Terry stated that there should be no problem in drawing down all the funds allocated for 2004 by December 31st and noted that the system does receive matching cash funds which have been used to provide transit services for January and February.</div> <bR> <div> <B>Child Care Facility Sale</b></div> <div> Joe Kiely updated those present on the status of the sale of the Child Care Facility in Limon.  Two months ago, USDA Rural Development submitted a Commitment of Funds Notice to Washington, DC.  One of the terms of commitment was that the Town bond the project; however, there is currently unanswered questions as to whether or not this will be workable.  In the meantime, alternative financing is being pursued for a lease/purchase.  Joe felt that if the monthly rent could continue in the neighborhood of what it has been and the Town could come up with grant funding between $25,000 - $50,000, the lease/purchase could be doable and could be put together in a relatively short period of time.  Jo Downey noted that ECCOG’s asking price for the Child Care Center is $350,000 but that there might be a way of carrying back $25,000 of this amount if it becomes necessary to make the lease/purchase work.  Pete Kjosness moved to authorize Jo Downey to explore ways of carrying back $25,000 of the $350,000 selling price for the Limon Child Care Center to the Town of Limon if this becomes necessary to make the lease/purchase work.  This motion was seconded by John Metli and carried unanimously.</div> <bR> <div> <B>Rack Cards</b></div> <div> Rack cards for the Limon Heritage Museum, Old Town and the Kit Carson County Carousel have been completed.  50,000 of each have been printed and were paid for out of Enterprise Zone Marketing funds and match.  Eventually, a rack card for Hwy. 86 will be developed and printed once the existing supply of cards for this attraction has been utilized.  Jo Downey discussed the use of these marketing materials and the potential for completing similar rack cards for other regional public attractions.  Jo said that the general criteria for developing a rack card using marketing funds includes the need for the attraction to be open every day throughout the summer and placement of the Colorado’s Central Plains logo on the cards.  Aside from that, the entity involved has free rein (within reason) as to how it wishes to design its rack card.  The rack cards will be distributed at welcome centers this summer and will be used in conjunction with other regional promotional material.</div> <bR> <div> <B>Web Site Statistics</b></div> <div> Copies of a summary of Prairie Development’s web site “hits” for 2003 were included in Board packets.  Jo Downey explained that ECCOG/PDC staff is currently implementing some changes in order to access and update the web site in-house.  Therefore, the most current statistics are not available at the moment.  Jo noted that PDC’s site is basically an economic development web site with links to area towns, counties, schools, etc.</div> <bR> <div> <B>Heritage Tourism Presentation</b></div> <div> Due to unforeseen circumstances, the power point presentation summarizing the new Heritage Tourism Brochure scheduled for this meeting will be presented at next month’s meeting.  Jo Downey talked about how the project is evolving and how this heritage piece will complement ECCOG’s other economic development marketing tools.  Mock-ups of some of the “stories”, photos, etc. were viewed by those present along with the antique leather-look cover.  There will also be a “pocket” for customized inserts that individual entities will develop.  Jo stated that this project has turned into much more than originally anticipated and is very encompassing.  She felt that the brochure would portray a genuine “feel” for the historic significance of the four-county area.  Once the brochure is completed, a meeting will be coordinated for all the museums, historical societies, etc. at which time those present will be asked for input as to what type of inserts they would like to develop for their particular attraction.  Additional resources will be necessary to assist with the additional materials.  The Power Point presentation was viewed at the Colorado Preservation Inc. Conference which generated a suggestion from one of the attendees to pursue a Capacity Building Grant from HUD to  assist the individual museums and historical entities in determining how to proceed into the future to capitalize on the heritage tourism movement.  The brochure should be ready to go to the printer by next month.  20,000 copies will be printed for the first run and will be placed at the individual attractions.  A web page will be developed just for this brochure.</div> <bR> <div> <B>Area Agency on Aging 2003 Year-End Report</b></div> <div> Terry Baylie distributed and briefly reviewed the preliminary report on service provision during 2003.  She explained that these were un-audited figures.  The audit should be complete by March 15th, but it is not expected that these numbers will change.  For the benefit of new board members, Terry explained that ECCOG’s Area Agency on Aging is a direct service provider.  Unlike some other larger metro AAA’s, this agency actually provides services direct due to the lack of providers in this area.  There are some services that are contracted out, and the actual service provider was listed on the report, which also showed the units provided and funding source.  Terry also summarized the information in the report concerning the nutrition program, the public transit system and the administrative funding received.</div> <bR> <div> <B>Other</b></div> <div> In answer to a question concerning the response received from the recent economic development radio ads, Jo Downey stated that she was pleased with the response.  Whether or not the ads will be continued depends on available funding.</div> <bR> <div> <B><U>New Business</U></b><B>:</b></div> <div> <B>Enterprise Zone Annual Report</b></div> <div> A copy of the annual Enterprise Zone report to the State Economic Development Commission outlining the progress being made in meeting the East Central Enterprise Zone’s business development objectives was included in Board packets.  Jo Downey explained that when the enterprise zones were designated, each zone had to develop an EZ Plan with measurable goals and objectives.  The zones are accountable to the State Office of Economic Development and to the State Legislative Audit Committee and plans are updated and adjusted as necessary.  Jo discussed various statistics in the report noting that these reports must be filed annually with narrative as to how the zone has tried to achieve its goals.  Brief discussion took place as to what projects are eligible to receive enterprise zone contributions and the process to become an eligible EZ contribution project.</div> <bR> <div> <B>Status of Project Help MATE</b></div> <div> An update report on Project Help MATE was distributed.  Terry Baylie noted that there is approximately $15,000 left out of the original allocation for this program.  Terry explained that Project Help MATE is material aid to the elderly on a one-time only basis.  Copies of an e-mail were also passed out regarding the possible decrease in AAA’s General Fund allocations of which a portion has enabled the Area Agencies to provide the Help MATE service.  Terry noted that should state funding for senior services be reduced, the Help MATE program will be eliminated since the funds available would be needed for ongoing services.  She also stated that in anticipation of reduced funding, the Senior Services Board....at it’s January meeting....did vote to increase the suggested donation per meal from $2.25 to $3.00 effective April 1.  The nutrition program has approximately one month’s operating funds budgeted from the state funding.  The actual donation per meal is $1.94.  It is anticipated that if the actual donation of $2.50 per meal is realized, it will offset the potential funding loss.  Efforts will be made to inform and educate area senior citizens on why this increase is necessary.  The nutrition program and the AAA budget is safe for this calendar year, but staff has been exploring cost saving measures and alternatives to cutting actual service provision.  Also distributed for Board review was a brief report that was sent to state legislators concerning the significance of the State General Funding for Senior Services (SFSS).</div> <bR> <div> <B>Business Odyssey Production</b></div> <div> Jo Downey briefly updated those present on the recently produced video promoting the regional economic development of Colorado’s Central Plains and PDC’s role in putting this production together.  The final cut of the video should be available by next month’s meeting.  PDC’s segment will be included in an upcoming forty-five minute Business Odyssey production that will be viewed nation wide on CNBC.</div> <bR> <div> <B>Medicare Fraud Counseling</b></div> <div> The Division of Insurance is again funding the Medicare Fraud Counseling program this year and has offered ECCOG a contract in the amount of $8,000 to continue this program.  Terry explained that the program will be providing a presentation on Medicare Fraud at 14 locations throughout the region; a presentation at 6 locations on Medicare reform; handle complaints about possible Medicare fraud; sign up participants for the new prescription drug program as well as providing education about the prescription drug program.  Ron Rehfeld moved to enter into a contract with the Colorado Division of Insurance to provide Medicare Fraud Counseling; seconded by Rayetta Palmer; motion carried unanimously.  As a question arose concerning the types of health care counseling the Colorado East Community Action Agency provides, it was suggested that the administration of that agency be invited to come to ECCOG’s meeting in May for a general update.</div> <bR> <div> <B>Area Agency on Aging Statewide Needs Survey</b></div> <div> Terry Baylie explained that a survey will be conducted during March and April 2004 by the National Research Center to identify the strengths and needs of persons over the age of 60 throughout the State.  Telephone interviews will call a random sample of older adults.  Only a small portion of county households will receive a call, and it is anticipated that the sampling of citizens within the four-county ECCOG region will be minimal.  A press release has been sent to all area newspapers.  All field staff will receive a notice about this survey with instructions to read and post it at the senior center/nutrition sites in order to inform as many people as possible that if they receive a call, their participation is extremely important.</div> <bR> <div> <B>Transportation Plan Update</b></div> <div> Joe Kiely updated those present on the status of the 2030 Eastern Transportation Planning Region’s Transportation Plan.  He reported that a meeting has been scheduled for the nine counties in the Eastern Plains Transportation Planning Region on March 5th in Akron to review the proposed prioritization of eight Eastern TPR corridors that fit within the Constrained Construction Plan.  Joe discussed these priorities and talked more about what the TPR working committee was proposing for each of the eight corridors.  Joe stated that it has recently been determined that there is less funding available for the Region 1 Transportation District than originally expected and that it is almost certain that there will be proposed legislation in the near future to change the transportation funding formula which would take even more funds away from the rural areas.  Kiely emphasized and stressed the importance of letting our legislators know that this cannot happen.  The regional transportation plans must be completed by the end of March.  There will be a final public hearing for the Eastern TPR Plan on March 25th from 3-6 p.m. at the Limon Community Building.</div> <div> Jo Downey stated that the Regional Transportation Plan will be a well written document noting that the working committee consisted of nine members representing the counties within the Eastern TPR.  She noted that it is very difficult to prioritize projects when there is no money.</div> <bR> <div> Joe Kiely briefly touched upon several other transportation issues including the possibility of additional federal monies for Colorado if the Federal Highway Bill passes.  Joe then talked about a concept currently being studied as to the feasibility of re-routing unit trains that currently travel the I-25 corridor (around 32 a day) through Eastern Colorado.  Those present viewed a map showing a potential Denver bypass route.  If this were to become a reality, there would be many issues to consider with safety being a major concern.  Joe also distributed copies of a newsletter published by the consultants that are doing the Ports to Plains corridor management study.  This newsletter keeps interested parties apprised of what is being done in this study, much of which will deal with marketing strategies.  The consultants will hold a series of meetings as well.  The first one in Colorado will be held in Lamar on March 11.  Joe briefly talked about what the Ports to Plains coalition will be concentrating on down the line.</div> <bR> <div> The next ECCOG meeting will be held in Limon on April 7th.</div> <bR> <div> There being no further discussion, Patricia Vice declared the meeting adjourned at 9:00 p.m.</div> <bR> <div> <A HREF="#2004_eccog_minutes" TITLE="2004"><U><U>top of page</U></U></A></div> <bR> <bR> <bR> <bR> <bR> <bR> <bR> <bR> <bR> <DIV ALIGN="LEFT"></DIV> <div> <B> <A NAME="apr_2004"><IMG BORDER="0" SRC="1x1.gif" HEIGHT="1" ALIGN="bottom" WIDTH="1" HSPACE="0" VSPACE="0" ></A></b><FONT SIZE="3" COLOR="#000000" FACE="Palatino Linotype" ><B>East Central Council of Local Governments</b></FONT></div> <div> <B>Board of Directors Meeting Minutes</b></div> <div> <B>April 7, 2004</b></div> <div>   </div> <div> Patricia Vice, chairman, called the regular monthly meeting of the ECCOG Board of Directors to order at 7:18 p.m. April 7, 2004 at the Limon Town Hall, Limon, Colorado.</div> <bR> <div> Board members present included John Nichols, Ron Rehfeld, Rayetta Palmer, Larry Reeves, Patricia Vice and Pete Kjosness. Staff members present included Maryjo Downey, ECCOG executive director; Terry Baylie, Area Agency on Aging director; and Terry Blevins, Housing Improvement Program director. Guests present included Mike May, Bob Downey, Laura Erbert, Virginia Hubbell, Penni Fox, Eileene Andrews and Deb Conrads. </div> <bR> <div> Jo Downey introduced the guests, who attended to help the Board recognize Jo for her 30 years of service as ECCOG's only executive director. A cake was provided for the celebration, and the meeting adjourned briefly for the occasion.</div> <bR> <div> Following the break for refreshments, the Board reviewed the Minutes of the March 3, 2004 meeting. John Nichols moved the Minutes be approved as submitted. Ron Rehfeld seconded the motion, which carried unanimously.</div> <bR> <div> Copies of the Financial Report were distributed. The total payroll for March was $27,159.92, and the total for bills listed for March was $51,701.69. Jo Downey said the bills included several Enterprise Zone contributions which were made payable to ECCOG, and then are "passed through" intact to the desired projects. Ron Rehfeld moved to approve the Financial Report for March and payment of the bills. Pete Kjosness seconded the motion, which carried unanimously. </div> <bR> <div> <B><U>Unfinished Business:</U></b></div> <bR> <div> <B>Impact grants</b></div> <bR> <div> Jo Downey reported on Energy Impact Assistance grants approved for this region during the recent funding cycle. The Kit Carson School District received partial funding of $75,000 for upgrades and maintenance improvements. Jo stated COG does not prepare grant applications for the school districts, but does provide any needed oil and gas/energy production information for the applications. Cheyenne County received $75,000 to assist in the repair and remodeling of a county-owned building for use as a museum.  Jo said the local historical society is seeking additional funds for this project. The Town of Cheyenne Wells was awarded $102,000 for purchase of a dilapidated trailer park which will be cleaned up and landscaped with walkways to improve the appearance of the community.  Kit Carson County received $175,000 and Lincoln County received $35,000, both for drainage projects.</div> <bR> <div> The application deadline for the next funding cycle is April 1. Among those preparing applications are Elbert County, seeking $300,000 for a new communications center at the Criminal Justice Center; the Town of Limon, seeking $300,000 for water system improvements; Cheyenne County, seeking funds for purchase of new vehicles for the sheriff's office and for the county coroner; and the East Central Council of Local Governments, seeking $32,000 to provide technical assistance to the local governments in this region. The Town of Stratton is requesting $53,000 for partial funding of a master drainage plan.</div> <bR> <div> The application deadline for the following funding cycle will be August 1, 2004.</div> <bR> <div> <B>Kit Carson County Municipal Board Member for 2004</b></div> <bR> <div> Jo Downey said the newest member of the ECCOG Board of Directors is Larry Shutte, a member of the Stratton Town Board of Trustees, representing Kit Carson County municipalities. It was expected that </div> <div> Larry would be introduced to the other Board members at this meeting, but he was required to attend a mandatory work-related meeting instead.</div> <bR> <div> <B>State Funding for Senior Services</b></div> <div> Terry Baylie reported that the Colorado Joint Budget Committee, in response to a request from the Governor and the Colorado Department of Human Services, has restored $1,599,410 of the $3 million initially cut from State Funding for Senior Services allocations. The total SFSS funds approved now stands at $3,059,410, compared with $4,493,956, the level prior to the cuts. She said it still is hoped that full funding will be restored. Final information on available State Funding for Senior Services should be available by June 4, so the state's Area Agency on Aging applications for funds can be submitted by the July 19 deadline.</div> <bR> <div> <B>Heritage Tourism Presentation/Time Line</b></div> <div> Jo Downey summarized the development of the new heritage tourism brochure to prepare Board members for the PowerPoint presentation to be shown by Terry Blevins. This 15-minute presentation showed photos that were not included in the final brochure, as well as photos that were selected, and gave a tongue-in-cheek picture of the decisions that had to be made along the way. Jo said the brochures should be going to the printer within the next month, and will become the foundation for a future regional heritage tourism program that will follow.</div> <bR> <div> <B>Kit Carson County/Burlington Buses</b></div> <div> Terry Baylie circulated copies of the bid-opening summary showing new bus bids submitted by two companies. The new buses will accommodate 12 ambulatory passengers and two wheelchair passengers each. The low bidder was Supreme Corporation, at $36,213 per vehicle, which Terry said was less than the 2003 purchase price. The total cost for two buses will be $72,426, of which $14,485 will come from local sources. Federal funds approved for these purchases totaled $42,000 per bus, but the actual federal cost will be $28,971 per bus, she said. The new buses should be delivered by mid-July.</div> <bR> <div> In future years, Terry added, the Colorado Department of Transportation will conduct the bidding process for new buses, statewide. This effort may attract more bidders, and should result in lower cost vehicles and reduced administrative costs for local transit programs. Future bid packages will include a variety of vehicle floor plans and options to make sure local needs are served.</div> <bR> <div> <B>2030 Transportation Plan Status</b></div> <div> Jo Downey called the Board's attention to the agenda for the next Eastern Transportation Planning Region (TPR) meeting, set for April 19 at Limon. Among other business, the TPR is expected to adopt a resolution accepting the available pieces of the plan and forwarding them on to the State Transportation Commission.</div> <bR> <div> <B>Child Care Facility Sale</b></div> <div> USDA Rural Development has reviewed its requirements for loaning funds for purchase of the Limon Child Development Center, and has decided the sale can proceed directly from ECCOG to the nonprofit operator of the Center, and the lease purchase arrangement discussed at the last meeting is no longer an issue, according to Jo Downey. It is expected that the nonprofit operator will sign the purchase agreement within the next 30 days, and the sale can proceed soon thereafter, she said.</div> <bR> <div> <B>Other Unfinished Business</b></div> <div> There was no other unfinished business to come before the Board. </div> <bR> <div> <B><U>New Business:</U></b></div> <bR> <div> <B>2003 Audit</b></div> <div> Michael May, CPA, of May & Company, P. C. of Parker, attended the meeting to present the Board with copies of the 2003 audit report, and he told Board members that his report contained no adverse findings and no reportable conditions.</div> <bR> <div> John Nichols asked if he could see details of professional fees reported in the audit report, and the auditor agreed to provide that information.</div> <bR> <div> Ron Rehfeld moved the 2003 Audit report be accepted. The motion was seconded by Rayetta Palmer, and carried unanimously. </div> <bR> <div> <B>Website Statistics</b></div> <bR> <div> The Board members reviewed a statistical report showing the number of visits, or "hits," to the Prairie Development Corporation web site during January and February 2004. PDC's web address is <FONT SIZE="3" COLOR="#0000FF" FACE="Palatino Linotype" ><A HREF="http://www.prairiedevelopment.com" TARGET="_top" TITLE="http://www.prairiedevelopment.com"><U><U>www.prairiedevelopment.com</U></U></A></FONT>. There was no discussion about the information provided. </div> <bR> <div> <B>Area Agency on Aging Plan/Grant Applications Time Lines</b></div> <div> Terry Baylie provided information to the Board regarding final allocations from Title III of the Older Americans Act funds for federal fiscal year 2004. She noted that the allocations were higher in all categories than reported in the original allocation announcement. She will revise the 2004 application for grant funds to reflect the new allocations in time for COG Board review in May. This revised application must be submitted by May 17.  In July, the Board will review the 2005 application for State Funding for Senior Services, and the 2005 annual plan and grant application will be reviewed in November. These funds provide the basis for all senior citizens programs offered in the region by the East Central Area Agency on Aging.</div> <bR> <div> <B>Fuel Price Impact on Transit Policies and Budget</b></div> <div> ECCOG transit program staff members have been discussing program options in view of recent increases in gasoline prices, Terry Baylie said. Discussions will be held also with the various vehicle owners, and the Transit Advisory Committee will re-examine regional transit policies as to priorities for trip frequency, number of passengers and trip purposes. Recommendations from this committee will then be presented to the ECCOG Board for action, she said.</div> <bR> <div> <B>Other</b></div> <div> There was no other new business to come before the Board.</div> <div> <B>Business Odyssey Production</b></div> <div> At the conclusion of the business agenda, Board members watched the Business Odyssey production, a short video promoting the business climate and Prairie Development Corporation's business expansion and location incentives. To be included in a 30-minute production that will air nationally on CNBC television, the local program also will be made available for use by local development groups in both VHS and DVD formats, Jo Downey said.</div> <bR> <div> <B>May meeting date/time</b></div> <div> The next meeting of the East Central Council of Local Governments Board of Directors will be Wednesday, May 5, 2004 at Limon.</div> <bR> <div> <B>Adjournment</b></div> <div> There being no further business, Patricia Vice declared the meeting adjourned at 9:26 p.m.</div> <bR> <div> <A HREF="#2004_eccog_minutes" TITLE="2004"><U><U>top of page</U></U></A></div> <bR> <bR> <bR> <bR> <bR> <bR> <bR> <bR> <bR> <bR> <DIV ALIGN="LEFT"></DIV> <div> <B> <A NAME="may"><IMG BORDER="0" SRC="1x1.gif" HEIGHT="1" ALIGN="bottom" WIDTH="1" HSPACE="0" VSPACE="0" ></A></b><FONT SIZE="3" COLOR="#000000" FACE="Palatino Linotype" ><B>East Central Council of Local Governments</b></FONT></div> <div> <B>Board of Directors Meeting Minutes</b></div> <div> <B>May 5, 2004</b></div> <div>   </div> <div> Pete Kjosness, vice-chairman, called the regular monthly meeting of the ECCOG Board of Directors to order at 7:14 p.m. May 5, 2004 at the Limon Town Hall, Limon, Colorado.</div> <bR> <div> Board members present included Ron Rehfeld, Rayetta Palmer, Larry Reeves, John Metli, John Nichols, Larry Shutte and Pete Kjosness. Staff members present included Maryjo Downey, ECCOG executive director; Terry Baylie, Area Agency on Aging director; and Terry Blevins, Housing Improvement Program director. Guests present included Joe Kiely, Limon Town Manager, and Kay Christie, editor, Limon Leader. </div> <bR> <div> The Board reviewed the Minutes of the April 7, 2004 meeting. Rayetta Palmer moved the Minutes be approved as submitted. John Nichols seconded the motion, which carried unanimously.</div> <bR> <div> Copies of the Financial Report were distributed. The total payroll for April was $26,865.82, and the total for bills listed for March was $41,990.95. Ron Rehfeld moved to approve the Financial Report for April and payment of the bills. John Nichols seconded the motion, which carried unanimously. </div> <bR> <div> <B><U>Unfinished Business:</U></b></div> <bR> <div> <B>Impact grants</b></div> <div> Jo Downey reported that Energy Impact Assistance grant applications filed for the cycle ending April 1 included: the Town of Stratton for a drainage project; Cheyenne County for the purchase of new vehicles for the sheriff's and coroner's departments; the Town of Limon for water system improvements; Elbert County for an addition to the Communications Center; the Town of Hugo for an emergency water well replacement (a possible late filing); and the East Central Council of Local Governments for funds to provide community development assistance to local government members. Hearings on these applications will be in late July, with final funding decisions expected by early September. </div> <bR> <div> The application deadline for the next round of funding will be August 1, and Jo expects an application from the East Lincoln Fire District, among others, in that cycle. The deadline for the final 2004 funding cycle will be December 1, Jo said.</div> <bR> <div> <B>Area Agency on Aging Revised Grant Application</b></div> <div> Terry Baylie presented the revised 2004 grant application for Older Americans Act funds for senior services in this region. She discussed the application in detail, explaining the costs and services included. She told the Board that the Senior Services Advisory Board had recommended approval of this application. John Metli moved the Area Agency on Aging Revised Grant Application be approved as presented. Rayetta Palmer seconded the motion, which carried unanimously.</div> <bR> <div> <B>Heritage Tourism Brochure/Meetings</b></div> <bR> <div> Jo Downey told the Board that the Heritage Tourism Brochure will soon be printed, and the new brochure hopefully will be used to launch a comprehensive regional heritage tourism program. Once the brochures are completed, a series of meetings will be called including representatives from local historical societies and museum boards, economic development groups or Chambers of Commerce. The group will discuss marketing the region's heritage and culture as a joint effort. In addition, comments and ideas will be solicited regarding the need for a capacity building grant to support this effort. Jo asked members of the Board to provide any names and addresses of local contacts who should be invited to these meetings. Rayetta Palmer asked if the Cheyenne County contacts that were already known could be made available to her. Jo agreed to provide the list, although she said it could take some time to complete it.</div> <bR> <div> <B>2030 Transportation Plan Status</b></div> <div> The Eastern Transportation Planning Region will meet May 17 to approve the final draft of the 2030 Transportation Plan and to submit it to the Colorado Department of Transportation. Jo Downey provided copies of a memo from Larry Worth, recording secretary for the Eastern TPR, which encouraged interested persons to review the draft document at this web site:</div> <div> <U>http: //</U><A HREF="http://symetrixsystems.com\easternco" TARGET="_top" TITLE="http://symetrixsystems.com\easternco"><U><U>symetrixsystems.com\easternco</U></U></A></div> <bR> <div> Jo again asked Board members to look at the draft plan prior to May 17 to make sure there are no glaring errors in the data.</div> <bR> <div> Commenting that the draft plan data is interesting, but has no money attached to the plan, Limon Town Manager Joe Kiely told the board that it continues to be necessary for all local jurisdictions to "be at the table" during transportation planning cycles to ensure that local transportation needs are included in the plan.</div> <bR> <div> <B>Child Care Facility Sale</b></div> <div> The Board reviewed a copy of the sales contract for the Limon Child Development Center property. John Nichols questioned the fact that no earnest money was being required, that the contract is "open-ended" if the buyer defaults on the sale, and that the closing deadline is 150 days from the date of the contract. Joe Kiely said the sale is not expected to take that long, however, the time was extended to in an effort to accommodate the once-a-month ECCOG Board meetings.</div> <bR> <div> John Metli moved that the Board authorize Jo Downey to sign the sales contract and any closing documents, if the Board chairman is not available to do so. John Nichols seconded the motion, which carried unanimously.</div> <bR> <div> <B>Other Unfinished Business</b></div> <div> There was no other unfinished business to come before the Board. </div> <bR> <div> <B><U>New Business:</U></b></div> <bR> <div> <B>Web Site Statistics</b></div> <div> Visitors to the Prairie Development Corporation web site, <FONT SIZE="3" COLOR="#0000FF" FACE="Palatino Linotype" ><A HREF="http://www.prairiedevelopment.com" TARGET="_top" TITLE="http://www.prairiedevelopment.com"><U><U>www.prairiedevelopment.com</U></U></A></FONT>, were shown on the first quarter statistical report enclosed in the Board's pre-meeting packet. Total sessions on the site increased 39 percent in March, compared with February, and all site pages had increased activity but one. However, there were no email or web site inquiries reported for March. Jo Downey said the Business Odessy promotional video will be added to the web site as time permits. </div> <bR> <div> <B>Colorado East Community Action Grant Update</b></div> <div> As the ECCOG Board wanted to closely monitor the activities undertaken using the Title III-D health promotion grant approved to Colorado East Community Action Agency, Area Agency on Aging Director Terry Baylie reported on the first two months of the program. Terry said CECAA's goals for the use of these grant funds included 274 units of service to 60 individuals in the region. During February and March, CECAA provided 41 units of service to 16 persons, including topics ranging from Medicare fraud to supplemental insurance to long term care insurance information.</div> <bR> <div>  The Board had asked ECCOG staff to determine how CECAA staff and budget are utilized, but Terry Baylie told the Board at this meeting that she questions whether her authority extends beyond use of the Title III funds granted to CECAA. However, she did offer to ask the CECAA director to return to a future meeting to respond to Board questions. Jo Downey reminded the Board that CECAA had stated the Title III funds provided "the glue" that held the CECAA administrative budget together; she suggested it was appropriate for the ECCOG Board to ask what CECAA services have been saved with addition of the $3,500 Title III grant. Joe Kiely, Limon Town Manager, also suggested the Board might ask its questions in the interest of avoiding any duplication of services.</div> <bR> <div> Terry Baylie was directed to ask that ECCOG be placed on the mailing list for copies of the CECAA Board of Directors meeting Minutes.</div> <bR> <div> <B>Salary Schedule Format</b></div> <div> Jo Downey told the Board that the present ECCOG salary schedule is becoming unworkable due to the longevity of ECCOG staff. She said a reformatted salary schedule, one that "reflects the times," needs to be developed, possibly with higher base salaries for entry-level positions and with fewer steps. She asked Board members to provide her with copies of any good examples they might have from other organizations. </div> <bR> <div> <B>Outback Express</b></div> <div> In a brief report regarding transit services, Terry Baylie said several of the system's vehicles were scheduled to provide transportation to and during the recent 9 Health Fair in Burlington. ECCOG staff also manned a booth at the fair to provide information and brochures on all ECCOG programs.</div> <bR> <div> In response to higher fuel costs, Terry said the regularly scheduled bus trip from Stratton to Colorado Springs has been cancelled, and the trip is being combined with a trip originating from Burlington. She said the change would have minimal impact on riders of both the Stratton and the Burlington vehicles. The change will be reviewed in the fall.</div> <bR> <div> The 2005 update to the 2004/2005 Federal Transit Administration grant application must be submitted to Colorado Department of Transportation by the end of July. Terry said forms will be available on CDOT's web site by mid-May; the update will be reviewed by the regional Transit Advisory Committee in June, and will be adopted by the ECCOG Board in July. In this update, the Kiowa-based transit vehicle is scheduled for replacement, Terry added.</div> <bR> <div> And finally, Terry said that updates to the Outback Express Policy and Procedure Manual, along with certain owner policy changes, will be decided by the Transit Advisory Committee in May and will be reviewed by the ECCOG Board at its June meeting.</div> <bR> <div> <B>2004 Events Guides</b></div> <div> The new regional events guides have gone to press, and will be available for distribution by Memorial Day, according to Jo Downey. There will be 14,000 copies printed, and the guides will be circulated via two distribution routes and at the Burlington Welcome Center, and will be posted on the Prairie Development Corporation web site. In response to a request from Ron Rehfeld, Jo said she would try to have the web site <A HREF="http://www.cheyennecountyfair.com" TARGET="_top" TITLE="http://www.cheyennecountyfair.com"><U><U>www.cheyennecountyfair.com</U></U></A> included in the events guide, but it might be too late this year to do so.</div> <bR> <div> <B>Enterprise Zone Certification Summary</b></div> <div> Jo Downey discussed a summary of Enterprise Zone tax credit certifications completed by ECCOG for businesses in the four-county region from January 1 through April 15, as compared with the same period in 2003. The total number of businesses receiving the tax credits was 282 for 2004, compared with 265 last year. However, the actual qualifying credit base declined, from $19,728,388 in 2003 to $17,367,357 this year. Total tax savings declined as well, but remained over the half-million dollar mark.</div> <bR> <div> <B>Senior Services Advisory Board Appointment</b></div> <div> Terry Baylie advised the Board that Violet Greenstreet of Simla has resigned her position as at-large member of the Senior Services Advisory Board, effective April 1. The SSB nominated Irene Courtright of Stratton as her replacement, and asked the ECCOG Board to make the appointment. John Nichols moved that Irene Courtright be appointed as at-large member to the Senior Services Advisory Board. Larry Shutte seconded the motion, which carried unanimously.</div> <div>  </div> <div> <B>Other</b></div> <bR> <div> Jo Downey told the Board that the Business Odyssey program, including the Colorado Central Plains segment, will air on CNBC at 4:30 a.m. (local time) May 16, and at 12:30 a.m. May 22. Copies of the local segment have been made on VHS tape and DVD formats and are available to any Board member wanting them.</div> <div> Ron Rehfeld advised the Board of Philanthropy Day at the Community Resource Center in Sterling May 23-24, which will feature a program entitled "The Dos and Don'ts of Finding Money."</div> <bR> <div> John Nichols inquired about the results of the "Come Home Again" radio campaign. Jo Downey told him the next phase of the effort is a test marketing program directed via email to Arriba-Flagler School District alumni who now live outside the region.</div> <bR> <div> The next meeting of the East Central Council of Local Governments Board of Directors will be Wednesday, June 2, 2004 at Limon.</div> <bR> <div> <B>Adjournment</b></div> <div> There being no further business, Pete Kjosness declared the meeting adjourned at 8:50 p.m.</div> <bR> <div> <A HREF="#2004_eccog_minutes" TITLE="2004"><U><U>top of page</U></U></A></div> <bR> <bR> <bR> <bR> <bR> <bR> <bR> <bR> <bR> <bR> <bR> <bR> <bR> <bR> <bR> <bR> <bR> <DIV ALIGN="LEFT"></DIV> <div>  <A NAME="june_04"><IMG BORDER="0" SRC="1x1.gif" HEIGHT="1" ALIGN="bottom" WIDTH="1" HSPACE="0" VSPACE="0" ></A><FONT SIZE="3" COLOR="#000000" FACE="Palatino Linotype" ><B>East Central Council of Local Governments</b></FONT></div> <div> <B>Board of Directors Meeting Minutes</b></div> <div> <B>June 2, 2004</b></div> <div> Patricia Vice, chairman, called the regular monthly meeting of the ECCOG Board of Directors to order at 7:15 p.m. June 2, 2004 at the Limon Town Hall, Limon, Colorado.</div> <div> Board members present included Patricia Vice, Ron Rehfeld, Rayetta Palmer, John Metli, John Nichols, Larry Shutte and Pete Kjosness. Staff members present included Maryjo Downey, ECCOG executive director; Terry Baylie, Area Agency on Aging director; and Terry Blevins, Housing Improvement Program director. Joe Kiely, Limon Town Manager, was a guest. </div> <div> The Board reviewed the Minutes of the May 5, 2004 meeting. John Nichols moved the Minutes be approved as submitted. Pete Kjosness seconded the motion, which carried unanimously. In response to a question from John Metli regarding information requested from Colorado East Community Action Agency, Jo Downey said ECCOG is asking for information about the CECAA services that were preserved when the Title III contract of $3,500 was approved. CECAA had told ECCOG that this grant was necessary, as it provides the “glue” that holds the agency's administrative budget together. Jo said she would be sending a letter requesting this information for discussion at a future meeting.</div> <div> Copies of the Financial Report were distributed. The total payroll for May was $25,518.61, and the total for bills listed for May was $51,165.49. Larry Shutte moved to approve the Financial Report for May and payment of the bills. Ron Rehfeld seconded the motion, which carried unanimously. The Board previously had asked for an explanation of the “professional fees” line item in the 2003 Audit report. Jo said that line includes the cost of the audit itself, fees associated with the ECCOG retirement plan, computer technical assistance, consultants working with the marketing program, planning and services provided through subgrants to other agencies, drug testing, and other, similar costs.</div> <div> <B><U>Unfinished Business:</U></b></div> <div> <B>Impact grants</b></div> <div> Jo Downey said hearings on the current round of Energy Impact Assistance Grant applications will be June 21, 2004 at Edwards, beginning at 3 p.m. August 1 is the deadline for the next round of applications. Jo said she expects requests from the Town of Seibert and East Lincoln (Arriba) Fire District. Regional grants for community development assistance will be funded at the same level as in the past year. The maximum grant amount has been increased to $500,000, but the state will be expecting larger levels of local matching funds, as well.</div> <div> <B>Area Agency on Aging Statewide Needs Survey</b></div> <div> The Colorado Division of Aging and Adult Services is conducting a statewide needs survey to determine priorities for programs that can be funded through federal or state aging program grants. Terry said the state intends to survey 375 individuals in this region. The survey process is 56 percent complete, and Terry said the state hopes to finish the needs survey by mid- to late-June. </div> <div> <B>Heritage Tourism Brochure/Meetings</b></div> <div> The “Our Journey” heritage tourism brochure has been printed. Copies were available for the Board members to take back to their communities. Jo Downey said the brochures are designed to attract people to the area's heritage tourism sites, as well as to form the foundation for a local heritage tourism industry capacity-building program. Also based on the brochure is a new website, <FONT SIZE="3" COLOR="#0000FF" FACE="Palatino Linotype" ><A HREF="http://www.ourjourney.info" TARGET="_top" TITLE="http://www.ourjourney.info"><U><U>www.ourjourney.info</U></U></A></FONT>, which will provide information about heritage tourism sites, including prices and ours of operation, as well as other regional stories of historic interest. The “Our Heritage” stories currently at the PDC website, along with others, will be moved to this site. They still can be accessed from the PDC site via a link to <FONT SIZE="3" COLOR="#0000FF" FACE="Palatino Linotype" ><A HREF="http://www.ourjourney.info" TARGET="_top" TITLE="http://www.ourjourney.info"><U><U>www.ourjourney.info</U></U></A></FONT>. Jo thanked the Board for helping identify key persons around the region connected to heritage tourism. Once a complete mailing list is available, invitations will be sent out asking these persons to attend meetings where a regional approach to heritage tourism can be explored. At this point, printed inserts with details about individual attractions can be developed for use in the pockets of the “Our Journey” brochure.</div> <div> <B>2030 Transportation Plan Status</b></div> <div> Joe Kiely told the Board that the Eastern Transportation Planning Region has approved the final draft of the 2030 Transportation Plan. The draft now is undergoing review by Colorado Department of Transportation staff, and any recommended changes will be resubmitted to the Eastern TPR. The plan also will be the subject of two additional public hearings.</div> <div> <B>Child Care Facility Sale</b></div> <div> Joe Kiely said the town received on June 1 a letter of conditions, dated May 21, and a letter of intent, dated May 19, requiring a response within 15 calendar days. USDA Rural Development is offering a $300,000 loan and a $50,000 grant to finance the sale of the Limon Child Development Center (LCDC) by ECCOG to the nonprofit operator of the facility. Jo Downey reminded the Board that while the sales proceeds will total $350,000, ECCOG still owes about $314,000 to Prairie Development Corporation (PDC) to pay off the purchase loan. However, Jo said PDC has made payments on behalf of ECCOG for major repairs to the facility and other expenses since 2002, payments totaling almost $21,000. She recommended reimbursement for those payments be added to the pay-off total. John Nichols moved the Board approve reimbursement to PDC for expenses incurred on ECCOG's behalf in connection with the LCDC and associated with the sale. Pete Kjosness seconded the motion, which carried unanimously.</div> <div> <B>Other Unfinished Business</b></div> <div> There was no other unfinished business to come before the Board. </div> <div> <B><U>New Business:</U></b></div> <div> <B>Web Site Statistics</b></div> <div> Jo Downey called the Board's attention to the website statistics for <FONT SIZE="3" COLOR="#0000FF" FACE="Palatino Linotype" ><A HREF="http://www.prairiedevelopment.com" TARGET="_top" TITLE="http://www.prairiedevelopment.com"><U><U>www.prairiedevelopment.com</U></U></A></FONT>, included in the Board members' pre-meeting packets. The statistics for April 2004 showed visits to the site were down slightly in most areas, compared with March. The report also reported “point of origin” statistics, which showed that visits to the website originated across the United States and worldwide. However, she noted that not all visits reported included the point of origin, which she believes is related to the different search engines being used.</div> <div> Jo also briefly described the website-targeted marketing project, in which Prairie Development Corporation hopes to direct news and other matter to alumni of the Arriba-Flagler School District to encourage them to move back to Colorado's Central Plains. She said the project is being completed with the assistance of the Flagler Alumni Association.</div> <div> <B>Salary Schedule Format</b></div> <div> Jo Downey told the Board that ECCOG's administrative staff had reviewed a variety of salary schedule formats and philosophies, and in the end had determined that the existing format works best for ECCOG. However, a revised schedule has been developed that increases the base salary rate to current competitive levels, that places staff with long seniority at lower levels on the schedule, that eliminates the resting step but lowers the incremental increase between steps. Jo said the new schedule is designed to accommodate those staff members who have been with the agency for many years, and to make </div> <div> ECCOG as competitive in the employment market as possible, while at the same time keeping ECCOG from pricing itself out of business. John Nichols moved the 2005 salary schedule be accepted as proposed. Larry Shutte seconded the motion, which carried unanimously.</div> <div> <B>Outback Express Policy and Procedures Manual Updates/Changes</b></div> <div> Terry Baylie reported that changes to the transit program's policy and procedures manual might not be as extensive as expected. Suggested changes have not been received yet from all of the owners of the vehicles in the system, but Terry said conversations with the county commissioners indicate the owners' policies will not be changed substantially. The system policies will need a few basic updates in addition to any owner changes, she said. She hopes to have the proposed changes made in time for review by the Transit Advisory Committee June 28, with a recommendation for ECCOG Board action at the July 7 meeting.</div> <div> <B>2004 Events Guides</b></div> <div> Jo Downey reported that the region's annual Events Guide was hand-distributed on May 27, to make sure all outlets had a supply prior to Memorial Day. Jo requested Board members to help circulate remaining copies of the Events Guide. The guide also will be posted on the PDC website, <FONT SIZE="3" COLOR="#0000FF" FACE="Palatino Linotype" ><A HREF="http://www.prairiedevelopment.com" TARGET="_top" TITLE="http://www.prairiedevelopment.com"><U><U>www.prairiedevelopment.com</U></U></A></FONT>, and Jo said it will be possible to make additions or corrections to the electronic version, once it is activated. </div> <div> <B>Nutrition Program Guest Fee</b></div> <div> Terry Baylie said the Senior Services Advisory Board has discussed state regulations relative to costs and guest fees for meals served at the Title III-funded congregate meal sites for senior citizens. Persons over the age of 60 cannot be required to pay for these meals, although donations are encouraged, Terry said. Persons under the age of 60, however, must pay a guest fee that is developed based on a formula set forth in the state regulations. Given those regulations, she continued, the Senior Services Advisory Board has recommended that the guest fee for Title III meals in this region be increased from $4.50 per meal to $5.50, effective immediately. John Nichols moved the SSB recommendation be approved as submitted. Ron Rehfeld seconded the motion, which carried unanimously.</div> <div> <B>Other</b></div> <div> The next meeting of the East Central Council of Local Governments Board of Directors will be Wednesday, July 7, 2004 at Limon. There will be no Board meeting in August; necessary business will be conducted by mail.</div> <div> <B>Adjournment</b></div> <div> There being no further business, Patricia Vice declared the meeting adjourned at 8:13 p.m.</div> <bR> <div> <A HREF="#2004_eccog_minutes" TITLE="2004"><U><U>top of page</U></U></A></div> <bR> <bR> <bR> <bR> <bR> <bR> <bR> <bR> <bR> <bR> <bR> <DIV ALIGN="LEFT"></DIV> <div> <B> <A NAME="july_04"><IMG BORDER="0" SRC="1x1.gif" HEIGHT="1" ALIGN="bottom" WIDTH="1" HSPACE="0" VSPACE="0" ></A></b><FONT SIZE="3" COLOR="#000000" FACE="Palatino Linotype" ><B>East Central Council of Local Governments</b></FONT></div> <div> <B>Board of Directors Meeting Minutes</b></div> <div> <B>July 7, 2004</b></div> <div> The East Central Council of Local Governments' Board of Directors held its regular monthly meeting at the Limon Town Hall, July 7, 2004. Chairperson Patricia Vice called the meeting to order at 7:10 p.m., with the following board members in attendance: Rayetta Palmer, Larry Shutte, Larry Reeves, John E. Metli, and Ron Rehfeld. Others present for the meeting included Maryjo M. Downey, Executive Director; Terry Baylie, Senior Services Director; and Terry Blevins, Housing Program Director.</div> <div> The Minutes of the June 2, 2004 meeting were reviewed. Ron Rehfeld said the hearings on the current round of Energy Impact Assistance Grant applications would be held on July 21, 2004, rather than June 21, 2004 as stated in the Minutes, and he asked that the date be corrected in the first sentence of the paragraph headed "Impact Grants" on page 1. Larry Shutte moved the Minutes be approved as corrected. Ron Rehfeld seconded the motion, which carried uanimously.</div> <div> Copies of the Financial Report were distributed. The report showed net payroll for July 6, 2004 totaled $27,243.55, and the total for bills listed for June was $65,732.88. Rayetta Palmer moved to approve the financial report as presented and the payment of the bills. Ron Rehfeld seconded the motion, and it carried unanimously.</div> <div> <B><U>Unfinished Business:</U></b></div> <div> <B>Impact Grants - </b>Jo Downey told the Board that the summary statements prepared by state staff for each impact application now under consideration have been sent to the applicants. Hearings on the applications from this region will be in a block, beginning at 3 p.m. on Wednesday, July 21. After summarizing the local applications submitted in this round, she stressed the importance of local elected officials being present at the hearings to present the applications.</div> <div> <B>Outback Express Policy & Procedure Manual Update/Changes - </b>Copies of the manual were circulated to Board members by Terry Baylie, who said the changes were clearly marked for the Board's benefit. Most of the changes were wording, or "housekeeping," changes, she said, but she called the Board's attention to new language pertaining to child restraints and to an addition requested by Cheyenne County regarding driver qualifications for charter trips. The Transit Advisory Committee recommended the Board adopt the updated manual immediately, she said. Larry Shutte moved that the updated manual be approved, effective immediately, and Ron Rehfeld seconded the motion. Rayetta Palmer asked that the updated manuals and appropriate forms be included in the vehicle's equipment, as set forth in Section IV, Driver's Responsibilities. The amended motion was accepted by Larry and by Ron, and carried unanimously in the Board's vote. </div> <div> <B>Heritage Tourism Meetings - </b>Jo Downey told the Board that two of the four county meetings regarding Heritage Tourism in this region have been held, and the results, so far, have been very good. Jo said the discussions have revolved around a regional approach to heritage tourism promotion,  the  new  web-site, <FONT SIZE="3" COLOR="#0000FF" FACE="Palatino Linotype" ><A HREF="http://www.ourjourney.info" TARGET="_top" TITLE="http://www.ourjourney.info"><U><U>www.ourjourney.info</U></U></A></FONT>, and what potential, if any, there would be for local benefit from a capacity-building project in the region. Among the many topics discussed were the "My Journey" pass which would provide free access to all heritage tourism sites, familiarization tours, and education of local residents, particularly youths. Two more meetings will be held, then Jo will summarize the results for all interested parties before any decision is made regarding future heritage tourism activities.</div> <div> <B>2030 Transportation Plan Status - </b>Final public meetings regarding the 2030 Transportation Plan have been changed to September, as stated on the Agenda. Jo Downey said she had no other news regarding the plan at this time.</div> <div> <B>Federal Transit Administration Grant Application Update - </b>Terry Baylie discussed the application update for the Outback Express transit program. She said answers were given for questions asked on the form, and numbers used for the performance measures are 2004 estimates based on the first six months of 2004. She said one vehicle owned by Elbert County had been moved back in the replacement schedule, at the suggestion of the Elbert County Commissioners, due to its low mileage. That vehicle now is scheduled for replacement in 2008-09. The application explains that trips from Kit Carson County have had to be consolidated due to high fuel costs, and if costs remain high, similar actions may be taken in other counties in the future. And finally, the program is requesting funds to help purchase two new computers. ECCOG is requesting $37,000 in administrative funds and $94,000 in operating funds for 2005. Terry said it is anticipated the actual award will be closer to $16,000 for administration and $40,000 for operating. John Metli moved the grant application be submitted as presented. Rayetta Palmer seconded the motion, which carried unanimously.</div> <div> <B>Child Care Facility Sale - </b>Jo Downey said a Gigi Dennis, representing USDA Rural Development, and Daniel Brenner, representing Senator Wayne Allard, were in Limon June 21 to present "checks" to Limon Child Development, Inc. for purchase of the Limon Child Development Center from East Central Council of Local Governments. The purchase, using a $50,000 RD grant and a $300,000 RD loan, is still expected to occur within the 90-day period announced at the last meeting. She said she expects the sales contract to be executed soon.</div> <div> <B>Other - </b>There was no other old business to come before the Board.</div> <div> <B><U>New Business</U></b></div> <div> <B>Population Estimates - </b>Jo Downey passed around copies of the latest preliminary population estimates (as of July 1, 2003) for the counties, which included prison populations, she said. She briefly discussed possible uses for the data, and she stressed the need for counties to make sure the county census figures appear to be correct. Jo reminded those present that the estimates always are a year behind.</div> <div> <B>Web Site(s) Update and Statistics -</b> The number of visitors to the Prairie Development Corporation web site has decreased, Jo said. PDC is in the process of changing webmasters, and it is hoped there will be better counts available by August. </div> <div> <B>Area Agency on Aging Services Report - </b>Terry Baylie presented the Aging Services report for the quarter  ending  March  31,  2004.  Terry  answered  questions  from the Board regarding the report,  and pointed out that she had included the names of the various providers and contact persons for the Board's information.</div> <div> <B>Revolving Loan Fund Grant Award - Jo Downey reported that Lincoln County soon wil</b>l receive official notice that a Community Development Block Grant in the amount of $460,000 had been awarded to re-capitalize the four-county Business Revolving Loan Fund and to provide administrative support for the fund for the next two to four years. Lincoln County obtained the grant on behalf of all four counties in the region, and will subgrant the entire amount to East Central COG and PDC. Jo said two business loans using the new grant funds already have been approved.</div> <div> <B>State Funding for Senior Services - </b>Terry Baylie summarized the proposed ECCOG application for state "general fund" dollars to fund specific services to senior citizens in the region next year. The prosposal includes $3,000 budgeted for a new range hood at the kitchen located at the Elbert Grange Hall, the normal cost of a commercial range hood. Terry said estimates given to the building's owners were as high as $19,000. Following a lengthy discussion of the range hood issue, John Metli moved the application be submitted as written. Rayetta Palmer seconded the motion, which carried unanimously.</div> <div> <B>Senior Services Board Appointment - </b>Terry Baylie reported that Vern Werner of Flagler has been nominated for appointment to the Senior Services Advisory Board, representing Kit Carson County. Ron Rehfeld moved that VernWerner be appointed to the Senior Services Advisory Board. John Metli seconded the motion, which carried unanimously.</div> <div> <B>Other - </b>There was no other business to come before the Board. </div> <div> <B>Date and Location for September Meeting (no meeting in August) - </b>The next meeting of the ECCOG Board will be September 1, 2004 at 7 p.m. at the Limon Town Hall. </div> <div> There being no further business to come before the Board, Patricia Vice declared the meeting adjourned at 8:20 p.m.</div> <bR> <div> <A HREF="#2004_eccog_minutes" TITLE="2004"><U><U>top of page</U></U></A></div> <bR> <bR> <bR> <bR> <bR> <bR> <bR> <bR> <bR> <bR> <bR> <bR> <bR> <bR> <bR> <bR> <bR> <bR> <bR> <bR> <bR> <bR> <bR> <bR> <bR> <bR> <bR> <bR> <bR> <bR> <bR> <bR> <bR> <bR> <bR> <bR> <bR> <bR> <DIV ALIGN="LEFT"></DIV> <div> <B> <A NAME="august"><IMG BORDER="0" SRC="1x1.gif" HEIGHT="1" ALIGN="bottom" WIDTH="1" HSPACE="0" VSPACE="0" ></A></b><FONT SIZE="3" COLOR="#000000" FACE="Palatino Linotype" ><B>There was no meeting of the </b></FONT></div> <div> <B>East Central Council of Local Governments</b></div> <div> <B>Board of Directors  in August, 2004.</b></div> <bR> <div> <A HREF="#2004_eccog_minutes" TITLE="2004"><U><U>top of page</U></U></A></div> <bR> <bR> <bR> <bR> <bR> <bR> <bR> <bR> <bR> <bR> <bR> <bR> <bR> <bR> <bR> <bR> <bR> <bR> <bR> <bR> <bR> <bR> <bR> <bR> <bR> <bR> <bR> <bR> <bR> <bR> <bR> <bR> <bR> <bR> <bR> <bR> <bR> <bR> <bR> <DIV ALIGN="LEFT"></DIV> <div> <B> <A NAME="sept_04"><IMG BORDER="0" SRC="1x1.gif" HEIGHT="1" ALIGN="bottom" WIDTH="1" HSPACE="0" VSPACE="0" ></A></b></div> <div> <B>East Central Council of Local Governments</b></div> <div> <B>Board of Directors Meeting Minutes</b></div> <div> <B>September 1, 2004</b></div> <div> Patricia Vice, chairman, called the regular monthly meeting of the ECCOG Board of Directors to order at 7:08 p.m. September 1, 2004 at the Limon Town Hall, Limon, Colorado.</div> <div> Board members present included Patricia Vice, Larry Reeves, Ron Rehfeld, Rayetta Palmer, John Metli, John Nichols and Larry Shutte. Staff members present included Maryjo Downey, ECCOG executive director; Terry Baylie, Area Agency on Aging director; and Terry Blevins, Housing Improvement Program director. Eric Palmer of Cheyenne Wells was a guest.</div> <div> The Board reviewed the Minutes of the July 7, 2004 meeting. John Nichols moved the Minutes be approved as submitted. Ron Rehfeld seconded the motion, which carried unanimously.</div> <div> Copies of the Financial Report were distributed. The total payroll for August was $25,334.51 The total for bills listed for August, $34,387.43. John Metli moved to approve the Financial Report for August and payment of the bills. John Nichols seconded the motion, which carried unanimously. </div> <div> <B><U>Unfinished Business:</U></b></div> <div> <B>Impact Grants</b></div> <div> Jo Downey reported that all four Energy Impact Assistance Grant applications from this region in the recent grant cycle received funding. Elbert County's request for $300,000 to help fund a new communications center was approved, conditional on passage of a 1% sales tax issue on November's Elbert County ballot. The Town of Limon received $300,000 for a water project. The Town of Stratton had requested $62,000, and received $45,000 to help fund a drainage study, and Cheyenne County received partial funding for new sheriff's department vehicles. Funding for a county coroner's vehicle was not approved. </div> <div> For the new grant cycle, with an application deadline in December, the only applications known at this time are requests for funds to help develop a new water well and water storage for the Town of Seibert and for water system improvements for the Town of Bethune.</div> <div> <B>State Auditor Report on State Services for Older Coloradans</b></div> <div> The State Auditor has completed the performance audit of State Services for Older Coloradans, and Terry Baylie told the Board that the information received in the Board packets was the executive summary only. Recommendations of the State Auditor will have low to minimal impact on the East Central Area Agency on Aging, she said. Her primary concern is a recommendation regarding redetermination of eligibility for services, which Terry suggested may conflict with the Older Americans Act requirement that services be provided to all residents over the age of 60. Another recommendation, which could cause an impact on local programs, suggested that services for Older Coloradans be offered through a single entry point process, similar to that now utilized for Medicaid programs.</div> <div> <B>Heritage Tourism Program</b></div> <div> Jo Downey summarized the results of the Heritage Tourism meetings held in all four counties during July. She described the meetings as “extremely beneficial.”  The meetings were followed up by sending a letter to each participant requesting personal preference rankings of the ideas presented. Those rankings are still being received. The next steps will involve development of the web site, <FONT SIZE="3" COLOR="#0000FF" FACE="Palatino Linotype" ><A HREF="http://www.ourjourney.info" TARGET="_top" TITLE="http://www.ourjourney.info"><U><U>www.ourjourney.info</U></U></A></FONT>, and meeting with B. Hawkins, Inc. to develop next summer's media campaign along the Front Range. Later, Jo will be meeting with representatives of the U. S. Department of Housing and Urban Development for preliminary discussions about a possible application next Spring for federal grant funds to help build the administrative and management capacities of the local Heritage Tourism sites.</div> <div> <B>2030 Transportation Plan Open Houses</b></div> <div> Jo Downey told the Board that the Eastern Transportation Planning Region's draft 2030 Regional Transportation Plan has been reviewed by the Colorado Department of Transportation. Several comments are being addressed, and the public will have two more chances to comment on the plan at open houses at the Limon Community Center September 13 and at the Washington County Events Center in Akron September14. Both meetings will be from 4 to 7 p.m.</div> <div> <B>Other Unfinished Business</b></div> <div> There was no other unfinished business to come before the Board. </div> <div> <B><U>New Business:</U></b></div> <div> <B>Senior Speak Out XXVIII</b></div> <div> Terry Baylie gave a brief history of the Senior Speak-Out, which is an annual issues conference focusing on the needs of senior citizens in the 16 Eastern Colorado counties. The first Speak-Out was held in Burlington in June 1977, and the event is hosted by the East Central region every third year. It will be held in Burlington again this year, October 7 & 8. She said legislative issues always are an important part of the Speak-Out, but in recent years, the participation of legislators representing Eastern Colorado has been very low. This year, Speak-Out organizers have invited county commissioners to join the legislator panel discussion.</div> <div> <B>Revolving Loan Fund Grant Sub-Contract</b></div> <div> Jo Downey asked the Board to consider a one-page subcontract among the Lincoln County Commissioners, ECCOG and Prairie Development Corporation. The new Community Development Block Grant that will recapitalize PDC's revolving business loan fund will go to Lincoln County, who applied for the funds on behalf of all four counties. Lincoln County, in turn, will subcontract with ECCOG for administration of the grant and with PDC for operation of the loan fund. She said the document is basically unchanged from previous subcontracts. The contract between the State of Colorado and Lincoln County has not been executed, yet, but in view of time constraints, she asked that the sub-contract be approved at this meeting, contingent on Lincoln County receiving the fully executed contract from the State of Colorado. John Nichols moved the subcontract be approved as requested. Larry Shutte seconded the motion, which carried unanimously.</div> <div> <B>2005 ECCOG Dues/Municipal Population Estimates</b></div> <div> Jo Downey discussed the town and county population estimates upon which the 2005 ECCOG dues will be based. The preliminary estimates were as of July 1, 2003. She said dues will increase slightly for the towns of Seibert, Limon, Hugo and Simla, but will decrease slightly for the other towns in the region. Elbert and Lincoln counties will see small increases in dues for next year, while Cheyenne and Kit Carson counties will see small decreases. Along with the COG dues, each county also contributes $3,500 annually toward matching funds for a grant to ECCOG for marketing the East Central Enterprise Zone Tax Credit. Jo said the information presented was informational only, as the formula for the dues schedule was approved two years ago.</div> <div> <B>Senior Services On-Site Evaluation</b></div> <div> The Colorado Department of Human Services' Aging Services Unit will conduct an on-site evaluation of ECCOG's aging programs October 12-14. Terry Baylie told the Board that such an usually occurs with each agency every four years, but this is the first on-site evaluation held in this region since 1997. Among other plans, the evaluation team plans to visit program sites and service providers. Terry said distances between projects in this region probably will have an effect on the extent of the visits.</div> <div> <B>Child Care Facility Sale Closing Date/Resolution</b></div> <div> Until Monday of this week, Rural Development had planned to close its loan with Limon Child Development, Inc. on September 1, and Limon Child Development, Inc. then would close its purchase of the Limon Child Development Center property from ECCOG on September 3. However, Jo Downey told the Board that Monday, ECCOG learned that Rural Development's regional office had just sent the closing instructions to the federal office in Washington, D. C. for review and approval, so the sale has been postponed. There is no problem, she assured the Board, but the sale will be delayed 30 to 45 days. When the sale does close, she continued, ECCOG must provide a copy of its By-laws and a Board Resolution authorizing the sale to the closing agent. She asked the Board to adopt that resolution at this meeting, even though ECCOG staff had been directed to sell the property at a previous meeting. John Metli moved that Resolution No. RE-09-04 be approved. Rayetta Palmer seconded the motion, which carried unanimously.</div> <div> <B>CDOT On-Site Assessment</b></div> <div> Terry Baylie said a second on-site assessment of ECCOG programs will occur sometime prior to December 31 when the Transit Unit from the Colorado Department of Transportation will visit to review Outback Express transit services.  Typically, the unit hires a consultant to conduct the assessment who will spend one day traveling the entire region looking at vehicles that still hold federal interest and spending only 3 or 4 hours in the Stratton office reviewing records and paperwork.  These are done yearly, but due to staff changes at the state, an evaluation was not completed during 2003.   </div> <div> <B>Other</b></div> <div> Under “Other Business,” Jo Downey circulated the Severance Tax Direct Distribution report for 2004. She said reporting criteria have been tightened since last year regarding locations of employees living in unincorporated areas and definitions of reportable employees. These changes have resulted in local governments receiving a larger amount per employee ($2,972 in 2004) and a greater number of employees shown living in unincorporated areas, a particularly beneficial change for counties.</div> <div> The next meeting of the East Central Council of Local Governments Board of Directors will be Wednesday, October 6, 2004 at Limon. </div> <div> <B>Adjournment</b></div> <div> There being no further business, Patricia Vice declared the meeting adjourned at 8:08 p.m.</div> <bR> <div> <A HREF="#2004_eccog_minutes" TITLE="2004"><U><U>top of page</U></U></A></div> <bR> <bR> <bR> <bR> <bR> <bR> <bR> <bR> <bR> <bR> <bR> <bR> <bR> <bR> <bR> <bR> <bR> <bR> <bR> <bR> <bR> <bR> <bR> <bR> <bR> <bR> <bR> <bR> <bR> <bR> <bR> <bR> <bR> <bR> <bR> <bR> <bR> <bR> <DIV ALIGN="LEFT"></DIV> <div> <B> <A NAME="oct_04"><IMG BORDER="0" SRC="1x1.gif" HEIGHT="1" ALIGN="bottom" WIDTH="1" HSPACE="0" VSPACE="0" ></A></b><FONT SIZE="3" COLOR="#000000" FACE="Palatino Linotype" ><B>East Central Council of Local Governments</b></FONT></div> <div> <B>Board of Directors Meeting Minutes</b></div> <div> <B>October 6, 2004</b></div> <bR> <div> Patricia Vice, chairperson, called the regular monthly meeting of the ECCOG Board of Directors to order at 7:17 p.m. October 6, 2004 at the Limon Town Hall, Limon, Colorado.</div> <bR> <div> Board members present included Patricia Vice, Ron Rehfeld, John Metli, Pete Kjosness, and Rayetta Palmer. Eric Palmer of Cheyenne Wells was a guest. Staff members present included Maryjo Downey, ECCOG executive director; Terry Baylie, Area Agency on Aging director; and Terry Blevins, Housing Improvement Program director. </div> <bR> <div> The Minutes of the September 1, 2004 meeting were reviewed. John Metli moved the Minutes be approved as submitted. Rayetta Palmer seconded the motion, which carried unanimously.</div> <bR> <div> Copies of the Financial Report were distributed. Jo Downey mentioned highlights in the report, which showed total payroll of $27,713.26 for October 5, 2004, and the total for bills listed for September was $43,798.03. Ron Rehfeld moved to approve the Financial Report for September and the payment of bills. John Metli seconded the motion, which carried unanimously. In response to a request from Jo Downey, John Metli moved that ECCOG request state approval to extend the current Energy Impact Assistance technical assistance grant to the end of March 2005. Rayetta Palmer seconded the motion, which carried unanimously.</div> <bR> <div> <B><U>Unfinished Business:</U></b></div> <div> <B>Impact Grants</b></div> <div> Jo Downey told the Board that hearings will be in Pueblo the first week of November for the current round of Energy Impact Assistance Grants. Applications discussed at these hearings will include those from the East Lincoln Fire District and from the City of Burlington. She said the application of the Town of Seibert for a new water well and water storage may not be ready for submittal by the December 1 deadline for the next cycle. An anticipated water system improvement grant application from the Town of Bethune may be ready, if the town learns by that date what level of assistance it can expect from Rural Development. Jo said Bethune already has received a challenge grant of $25,000 from the Cooper Clark Foundation. Jo will be meeting next week with the Kit Carson County Commissioners regarding a small Impact grant for a project at the fairgrounds building housing the Carousel exhibits. And finally, she said Kit Carson County Hospital has applied for a $172,500 Impact grant under the Rural Health Initiative set-aside, to be matched with $49,875 in other funds, for new equipment to be used for orthopedic surgery.</div> <div> <B>2005 Older Americans Act Funding</b></div> <div> Terry Baylie reported that the U. S. Senate Appropriations Committee has approved 2005 Older Americans Act appropriations. However, the Senate and House versions were not reconciled before October 1, the beginning of the federal fiscal year, and Congress has passed a continuing resolution that will permit operations to continue until the final appropriations are determined. There probably will be several continuing resolutions, as it is unlikely that the two bills will be reconciled before Congress adjourns for the November elections. Funding for programs and services will continue at 2004 levels in the interim.</div> <div> <B>2030 Transportation Plan Completion</b></div> <div> At the recent meeting held to finalize the 2030 Transportation Plan, the consultants brought new 2001-2030 estimated truck and total traffic volume tables that hadn't been seen before by the committee. Jo Downey told the Board that the data in these tables was unclear and the totals didn't add up. The consultants have revised the tables, improving them, although some problem areas still exist. A working group meeting is set for October 25 for review of the new numbers, and another meeting will be held (in Akron) for final approval of the plan.</div> <div> <B>Child Care Facility</b></div> <div> The Limon Child Development Center has been sold, for $350,000. Jo Downey told the Board that $314,300 was used to pay off ECCOG's loan from Prairie Development Corporation, and $20,726 was used to reimburse PDC for drainage correction work performed at the LCDC property. The balance, $14,000, will be deposited in the ECCOG General Fund.</div> <div> <B>Other Unfinished Business</b></div> <div> There was no other unfinished business to come before the Board. </div> <div> <B><U>New Business:</U></b></div> <div> <B>Emergency Response Plan for Aging Services Programs/Sites</b></div> <div> The Area Agency on Aging's emergency response plan must be updated to conform to new guidelines from the state. Terry Baylie said the AAA has designated an emergency response coordinator and two alternates, and she hopes to have the updated plan to the COG Board for review in February. She said a similar plan for transit services also will be required, and the goal is to combine both plans in the same document.</div> <div> <B>By-Laws Changes</b></div> <div> Jo Downey asked the Board to consider three "house-keeping" changes to the ECCOG By-Laws, two to clarify property ownership and the third to explain the interchangeable use of the names "East Central Council of Governments" and "East Central Council of Local Governments." The changes appear in Article I, Definitions; Article IX, Contracts, Loans, Checks and Deposits; and a new Article XIII was added, relative to property. John Metli moved the Board approve the By-Laws changes as proposed. Rayetta Palmer seconded the motion, which carried unanimously.</div> <bR> <div> <B>Federal Transit Administration (FTA) Funding for 2005</b></div> <div> Terry Baylie briefly discussed anticipated funding levels from the Federal Transit Administration in 2005. She said grant applications in the past were weighted 30% Service Area Population and 70% Merit of the Application. FTA plans to change this method to 20% Service Area Population, 20% Performance Measures and 60% Merit of the Application.</div> <bR> <div> <B>Federal Transit Administration (FTA) Contract Resolutions</b></div> <div> The Board was asked to approve contract resolutions for COG's 2005 funding from the FTA. In the recent past, the COG's FTA grant contracts have not been finalized by year's end.  However, Terry Baylie said Colorado Department of Transportation staff have given a 95% guarantee that contracts will be issued by January 1, if all paperwork is submitted by November 1. At the conclusion of Terry's discussion, Rayetta Palmer moved the COG Board approve Resolutions 05-10 and 05-11 as submitted. John Metli seconded the motion, which carried unanimously.</div> <div> <B>Enterprise Zone Tax Credit Certifications</b></div> <div> East Central Enterprise Zone Tax Credit Certifications for 2004, through September 30, were presented to the Board, both in comparison with the past three years for the same period, and broken out by type of business and type of credit claimed for each county. Jo Downey said the four-year comparison summary gives a good indication of the status of the region's economic situation. Overall, the number of businesses claiming tax credits, the amount of credits claimed and the total tax savings realized is very close in 2004 to that reported for the same period a year ago, but continues to be down substantially from 2001 and 2002. </div> <div> <B>Energy Outreach Colorado</b></div> <div> In the absence of other providers, ECCOG operated the Energy Outreach Colorado program in this region during the past year. Terry Baylie said ECCOG distributed $12,351 to fuel vendors in this region to avert utility shut-offs for needy households. She said 47 households in the four counties benefited from the program. ECCOG did not apply for funds to continue the program for the current year, as Colorado East Community Action Agency has applied to operate the program.</div> <div> <B>Cell Phones, Health Insurance Premiums, etc.</b></div> <div> Jo Downey reported that health insurance premiums for ECCOG employees will decrease 10% for the ensuing year.  Premiums for dental insurance are increasing, however. Jo also said she reviewed usage on</div> <div> the cellular telephones used by COG staff, adding that she believes ECCOG can save money by canceling two the phone contracts and paying the employees $15 per month each as reimbursement for use of their own personal cell phones for COG business. The two employees affected would be Jo and Terry Blevins. Pete Kjosness moved the Board approve cancellation of the cellular phone contracts for the two phones in questions, authorize the $15 monthly reimbursement for personal cell phone use. John Metli seconded the motion, which carried unanimously.</div> <div> <B>Colorado Municipal League Dinner for Region V</b></div> <div> Rayetta Palmer told those present that the Town of Cheyenne Wells is hosting the 2004 CML District 5 meeting on October 20. She briefly described the meeting's program, and invited all interested persons to attend.</div> <div> <B>Other New Business</b></div> <div> In other business, Patricia Vice advised Board members that she has notified Lincoln County's municipalities that she will not accept appointment to the ECCOG Board for another term, due to other demands on her time, including an appointment by the Governor to a term on the Colorado Water Resource Power Development Authority.</div> <div> <B>Date and Location for November Meeting</b></div> <div> The next meeting of the ECCOG Board of Directors will be November 3 in Limon. The December meeting will be held at the Claremont Inn at Stratton on December 1.</div> <div> <B>Adjournment</b></div> <div> There being no further business to come before the Board, John Metli moved the meeting be adjourned. Pete Kjosness seconded the motion, which carried unanimously. Patricia Vice declared the meeting adjourned at 8:38 p.m.</div> <bR> <div> <A HREF="#2004_eccog_minutes" TITLE="2004"><U><U>top of page</U></U></A></div> <bR> <bR> <bR> <bR> <bR> <bR> <bR> <bR> <bR> <bR> <bR> <bR> <bR> <bR> <bR> <bR> <bR> <bR> <bR> <bR> <bR> <bR> <bR> <bR> <bR> <bR> <bR> <bR> <bR> <bR> <bR> <bR> <bR> <bR> <bR> <bR> <bR> <bR> <DIV ALIGN="LEFT"></DIV> <div> <B> <A NAME="nov_04"><IMG BORDER="0" SRC="1x1.gif" HEIGHT="1" ALIGN="bottom" WIDTH="1" HSPACE="0" VSPACE="0" ></A></b><FONT SIZE="3" COLOR="#000000" FACE="Palatino Linotype" ><B>East Central Council of Local Governments</b></FONT></div> <div> <B>Board of Directors Meeting Minutes</b></div> <div> <B>November 3, 2004</b></div> <div> Patricia Vice, chairperson, called the regular monthly meeting of the ECCOG Board of Directors to order at 7:06 p.m., November 3, 2004 at the Limon Town Hall, Limon, Colorado.</div> <div> Board members present included Patricia Vice, John Metli, Larry Shutte, Pete Kjosness, John Nichols Larry Reeves and Rayetta Palmer. Lincoln County Commissioner Gary Beedy and Eric Palmer of Cheyenne Wells were guests. Staff members present included Maryjo Downey, ECCOG executive director; Terry Baylie, Area Agency on Aging director; and Terry Blevins, Housing Improvement Program director.</div> <div> Jo Downey asked that a discussion of the ECCOG By-Laws be placed on the agenda under unfinished business. </div> <div> The Minutes of the October 6, 2004 meeting were reviewed. Pete Kjosness moved the Minutes be approved as submitted. Rayetta Palmer seconded the motion, which carried unanimously.</div> <div> Copies of the Financial Report were distributed. Jo Downey mentioned highlights in the report, which showed total payroll of $26,452.44 for November 2, 2004, and the total for bills listed for October was $55,529.40. Rayetta Palmer moved to approve the Financial Report for October and the payment of bills. John Metli seconded the motion, which carried unanimously.</div> <div> <B><U>Unfinished Business:</U></b></div> <div> <B>Impact Grants</b></div> <div> Jo Downey told the Board that hearings on grant applications submitted during the most recent round of funding for the Energy Impact Assistance Program would be held beginning November 4 at Pueblo. Applicants include the NE Lincoln Fire District, seeking funds for a quick response vehicle; the City of Burlington, seeking funds for a new community building with classrooms and offices; and Cheyenne County, seeking funds to purchase a new loader.</div> <div> The application deadline for the next cycle will be December 1. Jo said applications are anticipated from Lincoln County, seeking funds to assist with roof repair at the courthouse; Kit Carson County, seeking funds to develop a fairgrounds building for the new Carousel museum; and the Town of Bethune, seeking funds for water system improvements. Kit Carson County Hospital is also seeking funds under the Rural Health Initiative for new surgical equipment.  Rural Health Initiative grants do not have to go before the state committee.</div> <div> Jo said it is still expected that the grant program will have application cycles ending April 1, August 1 and December 1 in 2005.</div> <div> <B>2030 Transportation Plan Completion</b></div> <div> Last minute problems with traffic projections in the proposed 2030 Regional Transportation Plan have been ironed out, reported Jo Downey, and final adjustments were made at a working group meeting about 10 days ago. The Eastern Transportation Planning Region will meet in Akron December 10 to formally sign off on the plan, which must be submitted by December 31 to the Colorado Department of Transportation for inclusion in the statewide plan. Jo said members of the Eastern TPR have discussed continuing to meet twice a year to orient new elected officials and to keep all members advised about current transportation issues.</div> <div> <B>Energy Outreach Colorado</b></div> <div> Terry Baylie told the Board that Christy Graham, executive director of Colorado East Community Action Agency, has confirmed that CECAA was awarded the funds to operate the Energy Outreach Colorado program for the 2004-05 program year. CECAA received $7,000 to operate the program between November 1, 2004 and October 31, 2005. ECCOG has operated this program in recent years, but did not apply for funding for the ensuing year.</div> <div> <B>Area Agency on Aging On-Site Evaluation</b></div> <div> Representatives of the Colorado Aging and Adult Services Division will conduct an on-site evaluation of programs operated by the ECCOG, in its role as the Area Agency on Aging, for the benefit of senior citizens in the region. The evaluation team will be in the region November 15-17, monitoring meal preparation and meal service in addition to other program evaluations. This is the first AASD on-site evaluation in this region since 1997.</div> <div> <B>Other Unfinished Business</b></div> <div> Jo told the Board that, when adding some recent amendments to the ECCOG By-Laws, staff had observed other language in the By-Laws that has become outdated or irrelevant over the past 30 years. Additional By-Laws changes are being recommended, and Jo asked the Board to review the proposed changes during the coming month. The Board will be asked to act on the proposed changes in December.</div> <div> <B><U>New Business:</U></b></div> <div> <B>FFY (Federal Fiscal Year) 2005 Grant Application</b></div> <div> The Area Agency on Aging has developed a preliminary 2005 Grant Application for aging services, and Terry Baylie discussed the application for the benefit of the Board. She said time constraints did not allow the Senior Services Advisory Board to review this application at a regular meeting, so the Advisory Board recommendation was obtained by mail. The SSB recommended approval of the preliminary application, which must be submitted to the State by November 15. Terry said the application will be revised in January, once actual carryover amounts are known. John Metli moved the 2005 Grant Application for aging services be approved and submitted to the State. Rayetta Palmer seconded the motion, which carried unanimously.</div> <div> <B>Transit Services On-Site Evaluation</b></div> <div> The Colorado Department of Transportation's Transit Unit will conduct an on-site evaluation of this region's public transit program on December 1. The evaluation team will travel the region, inspecting all vehicles still holding federal interest, and will view selected records and other documentation at the office in Stratton. </div> <div> <B>2005 ECCOG Budget</b></div> <div> Jo Downey briefly explained the proposed 2005 ECCOG budget document during its first reading before the Board. After reviewing the various budget categories, Jo said the proposed salaries were determined by the most recent salary schedule approved by the Board. ECCOG will continue to pay $350 per month toward each fulltime employee's health insurance premium. Jo told the Board that projected revenues and expenditures are down from a year ago as there is no projected purchase of any new mini-buses in 2005. The budget will come before the Board again for second reading and for action at the December meeting.</div> <div> <B>Other New Business</b></div> <div> Patricia Vice advised the Board that her appointment to the Colorado Water Resource Power Development Authority has been confirmed, with her confirmation hearing at the State Legislature set in January.</div> <div> Terry Baylie told the Board that ECCOG has received copies of "Strengths and Needs Assessment of Older Adults in the State of Colorado, East Central Region," compiled by the National Research Center, who conducted the survey. This assessment was based on a survey of 7.5 percent of the region's total population over age 60. Kit Carson County seniors contributed most to the survey, with 44 percent of the respondents living in Kit Carson County. Other county contributions were: Cheyenne County, 8 percent; Elbert County, 23 percent; Lincoln County, 25 percent. Copies of this assessment will be available for viewing at the ECCOG office in Stratton and a summary will be made available to the Board at the December meeting.</div> <div> <B>Date and Location for December Meeting</b></div> <div> The next meeting of the ECCOG Board of Directors will be December 1 at Stratton.</div> <div> <B>Adjournment</b></div> <div> There being no further business to come before the Board, Patricia Vice declared the meeting adjourned at 8.19 p.m.</div> <bR> <div> <A HREF="#2004_eccog_minutes" TITLE="2004"><U><U>top of page</U></U></A></div> <bR> <bR> <bR> <bR> <bR> <bR> <bR> <bR> <bR> <bR> <bR> <bR> <bR> <bR> <bR> <bR> <bR> <bR> <bR> <bR> <bR> <bR> <bR> <bR> <bR> <bR> <bR> <bR> <bR> <bR> <DIV ALIGN="LEFT"></DIV> <div> <B> <A NAME="dec_04"><IMG BORDER="0" SRC="1x1.gif" HEIGHT="1" ALIGN="bottom" WIDTH="1" HSPACE="0" VSPACE="0" ></A></b><FONT SIZE="3" COLOR="#000000" FACE="Palatino Linotype" ><B>East Central Council of Local Governments</b></FONT></div> <div> <B>Board of Directors Meeting Minutes</b></div> <div> <B>December 1, 2004</b></div> <div> Patricia Vice, chairperson, called the regular monthly meeting of the ECCOG Board of Directors to order at 7:19 p.m., December 1, 2004 at the Claremont Inn, Stratton, Colorado.</div> <div> Board members present included Patricia Vice, Rayetta Palmer, Larry Reeves, Ron Rehfeld, Pete Kjosness, Larry Shutte, John Metli and John Nichols. Don Anderson of the Burlington City Council was a guest. Staff members present included Maryjo Downey, ECCOG executive director; Terry Baylie, Area Agency on Aging director; and Terry Blevins, Housing Improvement Program director.</div> <div> The Minutes of the November 3, 2004 meeting were reviewed. Rayetta Palmer moved the Minutes be approved as submitted. Larry Shutte seconded the motion, which carried unanimously.</div> <div> Copies of the Financial Report were distributed. Jo Downey mentioned highlights in the report, which showed total payroll of $26,568.77 for December 1, 2004, and the total for bills listed for November was $50,098.59. John Metli moved to approve the Financial Report for November and the payment of bills. Ron Rehfeld seconded the motion, which carried unanimously.</div> <div> <B><U>Unfinished Business:</U></b></div> <div> <B>Impact Grants</b></div> <div> Jo Downey told the Board that recent Energy Impact Assistance grant applications from the NE Lincoln Fire Department, Cheyenne County and City of Burlington all received full funding. Applications for the next cycle are due this month. Jo said the Town of Bethune won't have enough information ready to submit an application this round, as planned, and a request from the Town of Seibert for a grant for water system improvements is on indefinite hold. Kit Carson County plans to seek funding for the Carousel museum at the fairgrounds in Burlington. Lincoln County will ask for grant assistance for courthouse roof repairs and other improvements.  The Cheyenne Wells School District will be seeking funds for two projects, relocation of a bus lane and construction of additional storage. The application deadline for the next funding cycle will be April 2005.</div> <div> <B>2030 Transportation Plan Completion</b></div> <div> In a brief update, Jo Downey said problem areas in the draft 2030 Transportation Plan have been corrected and it is expected the plan will be formally updated and approved December 10 at a meeting of the Eastern Transportation Planning Region in Akron. She gave members of the Board copies of the resolution that will adopt the plan and authorize its submittal to the Colorado Department of Transportation. Jo said the committee likely would meet again in late spring or summer to begin an education program about the planning process for new county commissioners.</div> <div> <B>Area Agency on Aging On-Site Evaluation</b></div> <div> Representatives of the Colorado Aging and Adult Services Division were in the region November 15-17, interviewing the Senior Services staff, visiting kitchens and meal sites. Terry Baylie said anticipated changes resulting from this on-site evaluation may include: implementation of a per unit cost reimbursement; changing transportation to a registered service by 2007; provider contract changes relative to waiting lists, complaint and appeals process and voluntary contributions; and use of a standardized client assessment form. Over all, Terry said, she believed the COG's senior programs fared well in the evaluation.</div> <div> <B>Aging Services Strengths and Needs Summary</b></div> <div> A summary of "Strengths and Needs Assessment of Older Adults in the State of Colorado, East Central Region," was given to Board members for their review. This assessment was compiled by the National Research Center based on a survey of 7.5 percent of the region's total 60+ population. The objectives of the survey were to identify the strengths and to articulate the needs of older adults in the region, to develop estimates of and projections for the cost of meeting the needs, and to provide useful, timely and important qualitative and quantitative information for planning, resource development and advocacy efforts.</div> <div> <B>Heritage Tourism Project Update</b></div> <div> Jo Downey reported that B. Hawkins, Inc. is researching and planning the next season's Heritage Tourism marketing program, based on print media possibilities. She said it had been planned to use a radio marketing campaign, but because of the success of the September "on-the-road" trip of Colorado Preservation, Inc. to east central Colorado. This large turnout was credited to an article published in a daily newspaper by Dr. Tom Noel, she said. Presently, consideration is being given to running print ads in <I>The Denver Post </I>and <I>The Rocky Mountain News</I>, and possibly to other Front Range publications, marketing this region to other Coloradoans. </div> <div> Only two museums have come forward with suggested marketing inserts for the Heritage Tourism brochure pocket, the Limon Heritage Museum and the Cheyenne County Jail museum in Cheyenne Wells. Terry Blevins will be meeting with Helen Teague to get additional information for the Cheyenne Wells insert. Rayetta Palmer asked to be included in that meeting.</div> <div> <FONT SIZE="3" COLOR="#000000" FACE="Palatino Linotype" >Other activities on hold temporarily include the U. S. Department of Housing and Urban Development capacity-building grant application (the application cycle is next Spring) and the</FONT> <A HREF="http://www.ourjourney.info" TARGET="_top" TITLE="http://www.ourjourney.info"><U><U>www.ourjourney.info</U></U></A> <FONT SIZE="3" COLOR="#000000" FACE="Palatino Linotype" >website.</FONT></div> <div> <B>2005 Budget</b></div> <div> The proposed 2005 budget of the East Central Council of Local Governments was presented to the Board for its second reading. Jo Downey said the new budget reflects lower revenue and expense totals because fewer capital expenditures are anticipated next year. Larry Shutte moved the 2005 ECCOG Budget be adopted as read. John Metli seconded the motion, which carried unanimously.</div> <div> <B>2004 Municipal Board Member Selection Status</b></div> <div> Jo Downey reported that the municipalities of Cheyenne and Elbert counties nominated only one candidate from each county, so those nominees will be appointed to the 2005 ECCOG Board of Directors automatically. Multiple nominees were submitted from Kit Carson and Lincoln counties, and the municipalities there will vote on the nominees during December. The county commissioners of the counties involved will break any ties resulting from the municipal votes. Jo said the county commissioners from all four counties will select the county representatives to the Board at the January 11, 2005 reorganization meetings.</div> <div> Jo also asked the Board to help find persons in Elbert County would be interested in serving on the Prairie Development Corporation Board. Any recommendations will be forwarded to the Elbert County Commissioners, who must make the appointment. The ECCOG Board will appoint one at-large member to the PDC Board in January.</div> <div> <B>Other Unfinished Business</b></div> <div> Terry Baylie gave a brief report on the one-day Colorado Transit Unit on-site evaluation, which took place earlier the same day. ECCOG staff arranged to have six buses from across the region brought to three central locations to make it easier for the Transit Unit staff to conduct the necessary inspections. The State staff also spent about two hours at the ECCOG office in Stratton reviewing records and documentation. </div> <div> <B><U>New Business:</U></b></div> <div> <B>Third Quarter Aging Services Statistical Report</b></div> <div> The Board members received copies of the third quarter Aging Services statistical report in their pre-meeting packets. At the meeting, Terry Baylie also distributed copies of the Nutrition Program and Outback Express transit program statistics.</div> <div> <B>Enhanced Rural Enterprise Zone Designation</b></div> <div> Jo Downey reported that Cheyenne, Lincoln and Kit Carson counties were all designated as Enhanced Rural Enterprise Zone counties, which means state income tax credits for new business facilities will be $2,500 per job, rather than $500 per job. Cheyenne and Lincoln counties have been on the enhanced list for  the  past  two  years,  but  Kit Carson County is on the list for the first time.  A number of factors are considered with making the designation, including population, unemployment, income and assessed value. The new business facility tax credit is also available for business expansions that create jobs.</div> <div> <B>Final Population Estimates and Projections</b></div> <div> Jo Downey told the Board that the population estimates and projects were included in the pre-meeting packets for Board information. The estimates and forecasts are by region and by county for the years 2000 through 2030. The forecast shows a region wide population increase of about 2.3% over the 30-year period. Most of that increase will be seen in Elbert County. Kit Carson and Lincoln counties will remain fairly static, while it is expected that Cheyenne County will see an overall decrease on population during that time.</div> <div> <B>Article X Revision and Adoption of Amended By-Laws</b></div> <div> Board members previously received copies of proposed amendments to the ECCOG By-Laws, including a rewritten Article X, as requested by John Metli at the November meeting. Rayetta Palmer moved the By-Laws be adopted as amended. Pete Kjosness seconded the motion, which carried unanimously.</div> <div> <B>Other New Business</b></div> <div> Terry Baylie reported that Congress has made its final appropriations for Older Americans Act funds for FY2005. Total amounts included in the appropriations were reported to the Board, but Terry said it is too early to tell how much of those appropriations will be available to local agencies for the provision of services.</div> <div> Jo Downey reported the El Pomar Foundation's Rural Outreach Program will be granting some flexible grant funds to ECCOG's transit program.</div> <div> <B>Date and Location for January Meeting</b></div> <div> The next meeting of the ECCOG Board of Directors will be Wednesday, January 5, 2005 at Limon.</div> <div> <B>Adjournment</b></div> <div> There being no further business to come before the Board, Patricia Vice declared the meeting adjourned at 8:51 p.m.</div> <bR> <div> <A HREF="#2004_eccog_minutes" TITLE="2004"><U><U>top of page</U></U></A></div> <bR> </td> </tr></table></body>