Press Release- Jan 30, 2007
OFFICE OF GOV. BILL RITTER, JR.
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE:
TUESDAY, JAN. 30, 2007
Contact:
Evan Dreyer, 720-350-8370
Linda Rice, Department of Local Affairs, 303.866.6249
GOV. RITTER ANNOUNCES $635K IN STATE AID TO SOUTHEAST COUNTIES TO DEFRAY COSTS OF BLIZZARD RESPONSE
Governor directs Department of Local Affairs to provide funds to counties for snow removal efforts
As southeast Colorado continues to struggle with record snow-removal costs, Gov. Bill Ritter has directed the state Department of Local Affairs to provide nearly $650,000 to eight hard-hit counties.
"Southeast Colorado counties are stretched to the limit," Ritter said. "Many have already far exceeded their snow-removal budgets. I'm committed to helping our communities recover from the ongoing impacts of the winter storms."
Commissioners from Baca, Bent, Crowley, Huerfano, Kiowa, Las Animas, Otero and Prowers counties have requested assistance for snow-removal costs, equipment and other related expenses. The awards are as follows:
- Baca - $100,000
- Bent - $50,000
- Crowley - $50,000
- Huerfano - $60,000
- Kiowa - $50,000
- Las Animas - $100,000
- Otero - $100,000
- Prowers - $125,000
The state funds announced today are being made available through the Energy and Mineral Impact Assistance Program.
"We have been working with the governor, local officials and legislators to identify how we can use existing resources to help our communities overcome the financial shortfalls caused by the blizzards," Department of Local Affairs Executive Director Susan Kirkpatrick said.
The program assists communities affected by the growth and decline of energy and mineral industries in the state. Funds come from the state severance tax on energy and mineral production and from a portion of the state's share of royalties paid to the federal government for mining and drilling on federally owned land. The Legislature created the program in 1977.
Barbara Kirkmeyer, director of DOLA's Division of Local Government said, "We are pleased we could assist these southeastern counties through the Energy and Mineral Impact program. It is an invaluable resource for local communities throughout Colorado. The energy industry is predominant in this area and it is important county officials ensure safe passage exists for energy industry employees needing to get to their wells sites."