DEL NORTE — After numerous conversations and much debate, the Rio Grande County Commissioners approved $150,000 in Conservation Trust Funds for the revitalization of Ski Hi Park on Tuesday morning.

The matter was once again brought forward for consideration by the board following a decision to delay the approval to obtain more information in mid-December.

Commissioner John Noffsker once again voiced his concern over his lack of certainty regarding the project. However, Forest Neuerburg, city manager for Monte Vista, and Kathy Woods of Friends of Ski Hi Park, were both quick to stress the urgency of the project.  “We’ve talked time and time again about the overall benefit of the facility even in its current distressed state,” said Woods.

Neuerburg reminded the commissioners that the city’s revenues for the long-term maintenance of the facility are expected to remain steady and perhaps see a gradual increase thanks to the passage of the one-cent fund in November.

Following a lively discussion, Noffsker proposed support for the project contingent upon the funds being earmarked for a specific portion of the project.

He also requested the formation of a commission to oversee the continuing development of the project.  Woods and all of the other supporters who were present found the idea to be acceptable.

Finally, Commissioner Gene Glover made the motion to approve the request. Before putting forth a second, Commissioner Suzanne Bothell observed that she finds it to be sad when historic buildings get torn down because they are not adequately maintained or no longer pretty. However, she went on to note that when it comes to Ski Hi Park, “This is where the building is.” She conceded that she believes it is time to move forward with the project for the benefit of all who use the facility.

Commissioner Noffsker wanted to amend the motion to include a provision for the county should the project not move forward. Glover noted that the provision was already included, and the motion passed unanimously.

Rio Grande County will allocate the funds to the City of Monte Vista to further the Friends of Ski Hi initiative. The entities will coordinate the details of the transaction in the days to come.