Organizers seek county approval for 12 Hours of Mesa Verde race; commissioners raise no objections

Organizers of the 12 Hours of Mesa Verde asked the Montezuma County Board of County Commissioners on Feb. 24 for approval to hold this year’s event at the county fairgrounds and to confirm operational details, including beverage allowances and fees.

Nick McDonald, a race organizer, told commissioners the race expects about 900 participants in some categories, that most categories still have limited slots and some are already sold out, and that the group historically asks for permission to offer up to two beverages per person though in practice many events permit one. “So, yeah, we're just here to ask for the approval again from the commissioners and the fairgrounds,” McDonald said.

The organizers emphasized that proceeds remain in the local community. “All of the funds that you guys do collect … stay right here locally into this community,” a presenter said, thanking county staff and volunteers for their support.

Commissioners and staff said they had no substantive objections. County staff told organizers that fees are under review countywide and that any changes likely would be announced in July. Staff said the county’s goal is to keep user fees low so events continue to attract participants while trying to cover rising operating costs.

Organizers noted they try to break even and that net proceeds support local causes; commissioners and staff acknowledged that balance and expressed appreciation for the event’s local economic and community impact. No formal vote or binding approval appeared on the record during the presentation.