There are several public meetings on the horizon with topics including Southwest Memorial Hospital financial health, a proposed new convention center, youth services, proposed new trails, Dolores River boating season, and an improved educational farm.
On March 27 Southwest Health System was scheduled to hold a public forum about operations at Southwest Memorial Hospital from 6 p.m. to 8 p.m. at Cortez City Hall, 123 E. Roger Smith Ave. The public can ask questions. The SHS board meeting will follow.On April 17, Montezuma County officials will meet with local agencies to discuss the concept of building a convention center at the county fairgrounds. The meeting will take place at 9 a.m. at the Colorado Welcome Center, 928 E. Main. St., Cortez.On April 17, a “Community Conversation” on youth services will be held from 11 a.m. to 1 p.m. at the Montezuma County Annex, 107 N. Chestnut St., Cortez. The meeting is being organized by Montezuma County officials to discuss gaps in youth services such as mental health. Youth support organizations are encouraged to attend and share information. Presenters should RSVP by contacting county administrator Shak Powers at 970-565-8317, or email at spowers@co.montezuma.co.us. On April 18, the Dolores Water Conservancy District and Bureau of Reclamation will meet with boaters at 7 p.m. at the Dolores Community Center to discuss a potential spring boating release below McPhee Dam.On May 2, the Montezuma County Recreation Advisory Council will host a field trip to the Sage Hen area at 6 p.m. to discuss recreation and a proposed new motorized route to access the road to McPhee dam. Officials with the San Juan Forest will attend. For more information contact county public lands director James Dietrich at 970-565-7402. On May 9, an open house for Fozzie’s Farm will be held from 4 p.m. to 8 p.m. at 19760 County Road W. The event includes presentation on the agricultural learning center and a tour of a new education lab.On June 24, the Montezuma County Commissioners will hold a town hall meeting at 6:30 p.m. at Dolores Town Hall, 420 Central Avenue. The meeting includes commissioner updates and gives the public the chance to ask questions and discuss local issues.