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Nonprofit Mesa asks county for access to 28‑acre site; commissioners pledge conditional help
Summary
Mesa representatives sought permission to use a county‑owned parcel near the fairgrounds as a permanent equine‑assisted services site and requested modest county assistance with road and utility improvements; commissioners agreed in principle but asked for specific cost estimates and lease terms protecting the county.
Representatives of Mesa, an equine‑assisted services nonprofit, asked the Sublette County commissioners for permission to use part of a county‑owned 28‑acre parcel near the fairgrounds as a permanent location for lessons, storage, and therapy programs. Mesa director S3 and volunteer S16 described the program’s capacity limits as a mobile operation and said a permanent site would allow expansion from four horses and a trailer to a stable of seven horses and more consistent programming.
Mesa requested modest county help with access and infrastructure — staff and presenters discussed one estimate in the meeting of roughly $15,000–$50,000 for road and basic utility improvements though presenters also mentioned a $50,000 figure for more extensive road work. Pure West, the original donor of the 28‑acre parcel, had provided an opinion by email that Mesa’s proposed use fit deed restrictions, but commissioners emphasized any assistance must be contractually protected so future commissions are not left to absorb permanent improvements without reimbursement.
Commissioner S11 moved to authorize staff to work with Mesa to draft lease terms and to return with precise cost estimates and proposed allocation of road base or in‑kind equipment support. The motion passed by voice vote; commissioners discussed options for the county to perform road base or grading in‑kind and to have Mesa install fencing and portable structures that could be removed if Mesa later vacates.
Why it matters: The request intersects county property management, nonprofit services for youth and people with disabilities, and use of limited county resources. Commissioners sought a balancing approach to support a local nonprofit while preserving county interests.
What’s next: Staff to produce a written lease template, an itemized cost estimate for improvements and proposed county in‑kind contributions, and options for liability/insurance and 'additional insured' requirements before the board signs any authorization.
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