Grand Mesa Nordic Council

Board Meeting

February 18, 2026

Zoom

Board members present: Tom Ela, Abe Herman, Susie Attaway, Marguerite Tuthill, Marilyn Kastens, Christine Noel, John Traylor, Ben Graves, and Nike VanArsdale

Staff present: Christie Aschwanden, Tigran Bailey, Lily Wade, Valerie Eipper, and Beth Klein

Guests: John Rankin and Dan Tille 

John Traylor called the meeting to order at 6:00 pm and read the GMNC mission statement.

1. 30 min Public Comment Period. John Rankin shared concerns regarding snowmaking and the potential for a perennial snow drought. He suggested investigating snow farming and fencing as practiced at Monarch Mountain to preserve and move snow.

1. Monthly Financials. Christine provided the monthly financials report that was included in the Board packet. GMNC is 75% through the fiscal year (as of Jan 31). Revenue is only 2% down despite low snow. Individual donations are up 135% over last year, and the bottom line is 193% greater than the same period last year. Abe proposed establishing an endowment fund through the Western Colorado Community Foundation (WCCF) to facilitate legacy giving and long-term fiscal sustainability.

1. Executive Director Update. Christie provided her written report in the Board packet. She reviewed highlights of the following:

Trail Expansion – Phase 1 and Phase 2 grant funding is secured. A meeting is scheduled for March with the Forest Service to discuss timber and wildlife (Lynx analysis) requirements to ensure fall 2026 construction.

Operations – The snowcat tracks were recently repaired by Kässbohrer at no cost following a mechanical error on their part.

Events & Ambassador Program – 21 ambassadors have completed 210 hours on the trails. Recent events like the Skyway Station race were well-attended despite low snow.

Ski School – Strong demand for private lessons, particularly from Front Range and Utah visitors. GMNC will focus on better marketing for skate skiing clinics in March.

1. Skyway Station Update. Dan provided an update on the construction work. Dan reported that flooring installation is scheduled for next week. The battery room is fully installed but cannot be activated until it passes inspections in mid-March. They are working through specific codes for AEDs and fire extinguishers. The project remains on track for a small budget surplus. A license agreement is in progress with the Mesa County Sheriff’s Department for the department to use Skyway Station as a base of operations for Search and Rescue (SAR). Board discussed storing rescue equipment (sleds/litters) at the station; Dan will consult with SAR contacts and legal counsel regarding liability. A draft of the Building Operations Handbook is available for Board review. Key features include programmable keycode locks, automated closing notifications on TV monitors, and security cameras with a PA system. The Board discussed using a safe-deposit box at a bank for critical titles and registration, with a lockable file cabinet at the station for standard paperwork.

The Board adjourned at 8:02pm. The Board will next meet on March 18th and April 15th via Zoom. May 13th will be an in-person meeting at the Bill Heddles Recreation Center in Delta.

Respectfully submitted,

Marguerite Tuthill

Secretary