Editor,

I am sending out a big thank you to San Luis Valley Great Outdoors (SLV GO!), our state and federal partners, city council and city staff, and the community for supporting the Recreation Economy for Rural Communities. The several-hour event over 3 days was enlightening and helpful as Monte Vista moves forward with plans to make our community better. I am very grateful for those who participated and made the time to have their voice heard.

The RERC was a nationally competitive grant that came through the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA), to help communities identify strategies to grow their outdoor economy and revitalize their Main Streets. The EPA has a dedicated staff to help rural communities with smart growth initiatives. It was rewarding to see those who partook in the weekend exercises engaged and enthusiastic. Looking forward to how we move forward.

Gigi Dennis

Monte Vista City Manager