Mayor Pro Tem Sheila Henderson oversaw the January 12, 2022 Town of Rye meeting.
Town of Rye employee Gib Rokich presented the water treatment plant report prepared by Rye Operator in Responsible Charge, Richard Hopp. Rokich pointed out that the town is using 40,000 gallons of water per day. This is over double the 14,000 gallons per day that were showing used last year at this time, which, in part, seems to be due to a leak. Rokich said there is a leak resulting in over 1,000 gallons per hour loss. He is looking at a property where the leak is suspected to be and will try capping or placing a valve on that line to determine if it is the problem.
The board asked Rokich to consult with Hopp for more information on whether the lost water is a leak, or if it is running downstream. More research will be done.
Rokich reported that one problematic meter has been recalibrated with the help of PALL Corporation, which fixed false readings.
The board instructed Rokich to repair the walkway to the post office.
Former town clerk Sherri Beach, who was assisting with the meeting, stated that CDOT has reopened the sidewalk grant and Mayor Marty Rahl is working to submit an application for this grant.
Rye resident Bill Hamler addressed the board requesting information about being annexed into the Town of Rye, his meter being moved onto his property, and concerns regarding a water leak. Hamler currently has water and sewer services with the Town of Rye due to a right of way access, but would like to be annexed to ensure that his property taxes contribute to the town. Rokich and the board will follow up on Hamler’s request and concerns.
Lola Raugh, who rents an RV space in Rye, approached the board with concerns regarding the upcoming rate increase and the lack of information on the Town of Rye website.
Rye resident Randy Smith asked what the Rye water was tested for and where it was tested. Smith said his water is discolored during the spring season. Rokich explained it was tested for lead, copper, bacteria, and other elements and that all homeowners are notified of contaminant results. Henderson and Tokich advised Smith that he could take a water sample to Plebian Pools and Spas or the Colorado Department of Public Health and Environment to be privately tested.
New Town Clerk Jocelyn Mower asked the board to consider changing the Town of Rye office hours to Monday-Thursday 8 am- 4 pm and closed Friday-Sunday. The board discussed the change in an executive session and voted to approve the new hours.
A motion was approved to grant Mower access to credentials needed for the Town of Rye website so that she can update past, current, and future information and manage it on a regular basis.
Mower notified the board of a generous donation Kirkland Construction made to the Town of Rye clerk office. A thank you card will be sent in appreciation.
Resolution 2022-1 designating official locations and circulation, and Resolution 2022-2 regarding dates for board meetings were passed.
Henderson presented a memorial plaque in honor of former ORC John Van Oort who recently passed away. The board acknowledged and recognized Van Oort for his dedication and service. The plaque will hang in the Town Hall.
The board acknowledged and recognized Van Oort for his dedication and service. The plaque will hang in the Town Hall.