Rangely council approves March financials and a special‑events permit; discusses grants for dinosaur public art

The Rangely Town Council approved routine financial and event items and spent time discussing funding for a public‑art dinosaur project.

Councilor Tim moved to approve the March financial summary, seconded by Kyle; the motion carried by voice vote. Later, the council considered a special‑event permit for the Elks BPOE Lodge 1907 for "Roar" on April 26 at Rio Blanco County Coline Park. Event organizer Chris described wristband controls and signage to restrict alcohol beyond designated areas; Councilor Andy moved to approve the permit, seconded by Sean, and the motion passed.

Council then reviewed three funding sources being pursued to support a dinosaur installation intended to draw visitors: an AGNC grant for $5,000; Main Street mini‑grants (eligibility to use three years at $5,000 per year, totaling up to $15,000); and a $5,000 lodging‑tax request because the project is intended as tourism/marketing. Council members questioned scale and placement — a steel dinosaur approximately 26 feet long was mentioned — and discussed whether multiple smaller pieces around town or a single large installation would better slow traffic and encourage stops.

Staff and councilors noted fabrication choices (metal versus fiberglass), potential installation sites near Town Hall or the east entrance, and possibilities for matching grants such as a T‑Mobile program that awards community outdoor‑space funds. No final grant vote appears in the record; councilors signaled continued brainstorming and agreed to pursue applicable grant opportunities.

The council also discussed logistics for installation and options to distribute smaller sculptures to encourage stops across town. Council concluded the item after asking staff to continue grant coordination and follow up with more specific placement and budget recommendations.