During a recent council meeting, discussions centered on a letter of support for the Environmental and Climate Justice Community Change Grants program, specifically regarding the Lariat Ditch Project in partnership with CU Anschutz. DJ, the presenter, outlined a shift in the city’s role from a partner to a subrecipient of the grant, which would streamline the funding process and avoid the need for a competitive request for proposals (RFP).

The change was prompted by consultations with CU Anschutz's grant manager and writer, who indicated that the city would be better positioned as a subrecipient. This adjustment would allow the city to manage the project without competing against other contractors, including those from the San Luis Valley Eco Council and other counties involved in similar projects.

To facilitate this transition, the council was asked to approve a motion allowing Gigi to review and sign the subaward contract from CU Anschutz once it is received. This step is crucial to ensure timely submission of the grant application around the July 5th deadline, especially given the anticipated competition from two significant projects emerging from Denver in early August. The council emphasized the importance of acting swiftly to secure funding for the Lariat Ditch Project, which aligns with broader environmental and climate justice goals.