Grand Mesa Nordic Council

Board Meeting

March 18, 2026

Zoom

Board members present: Tom Ela, Marguerite Tuthill, Marilyn Kastens, John Traylor, Ben Graves, and Nike VanArsdale

Board members not present: Christine Noel, Abe Herman, and Susie Attaway

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

Guests: Dan Tille

John Traylor called the meeting to order at 6:00pm.

1. 30 min Public Comment Period. No guests provided public comment.

1. Minutes. Tom moved and Ben seconded to approve the February minutes with the identified corrections. Motion passed unanimously.

1. Monthly Financials. John provided the monthly financials report that was included in the Board packet. John noted a remarkably strong year despite low snowfall. With two months remaining in the fiscal year, the organization is nearly $52,000 in the black. Total cash in the bank is approximately $435,000, which more than covers reserves for snowcat replacement and the “rainy day” fund. Revenue remains strong due to consistent membership renewals and trailhead “trail box” donations from out-of-town visitors. A minor billing discrepancy with a fuel provider was clarified; a December delivery had been misdated as February.

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

• Christie reported overwhelming community support and gratitude for grooming quality.
• Recent fundraising remains active, including a $250 membership and steady online day-use donations.
• Efforts are focused on keeping trails open until April 15, though high temperatures in Junction are beginning to affect the snowpack.
• Christie is currently gathering data for the Annual Report and finalizing a grant for the Ambassador program.

1. Operations Updates. 

Tigran provided snowcat updates: An engine fault occurred this week involving the fuel system; mechanics replaced the fuel filters, and the cat is being tested tonight. Tigran confirmed that Kassboherer replaced the snowcat tracks at no cost after admitting they mis torqued the bolts previously. Staff have begun moving tools and two large fireproof safes into the new Skyway Station building. The Board discussed the benefits of snowmobile  grooming used this season to keep costs down during low-snow periods.

Valerie provided Ski School updates: Val reported excellent feedback from students and praised the instructors for adapting to difficult, icy late-season conditions. While lessons are mostly finished, the school successfully accommodated spring break visitors this week. Out of approximately 150 students taught this season, only one semi-negative comment was received.

Lily provided outreach and ambassador updates: Membership tables have been successful, nearly selling out the entire inventory of GMNC hats. The recent Friluftsliv event and the season’s final race both saw good turnouts. As part of a Wright Challenge project (administered by CMU), a  group of CMU students is currently conducting a survey to understand trail user demographics (members vs. non-members) and identify barriers to participation for underserved members of our local community.

• Building Operations Plan Draft. The Board reviewed a draft manual. Marilyn Kastens praised the depth of the draft but questioned the distinction between broad policy and specific “how-to” procedures (e.g., how to empty the pellet stove). Dan Tille clarified that three distinct manuals are envisioned: a Master Building Manual, an Employee Manual for maintenance intervals, and a Volunteer Manual. Nike VanArsdale suggested adding interior signage for hours and “No Pets” policies, as users often ignore exterior signs. The building will utilize a PA system and 24/7 camera monitoring to manage public safety and building closure.

1. Skyway Station Update. Dan provided an update on the construction. The project has roughly 10 inspection points remaining; two were passed today, including the solar permit. The fire department will perform smoke and propane tests next week. The organization is applying for a 30% direct-pay tax credit for the solar installation, though approval may take up to five months. The Board tentatively set Saturday, April 11, 2026, for a grand opening and end-of-season celebration. Dan is finalizing a Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) with the Sheriff’s Department for year-round building security.

• WCCF Endowment Update. Christie provided a brief update on her conversation with the Western Colorado Community Fund about the possibility of creating an endowment for GMNC.The finance committee discussed the details and agreed that it is a good idea in the long term but not appropriate right now but the idea should be revisited in the future or sooner if we were to get a large gift.

The Board adjourned at 7:22pm. The Board will next meet on April 15, 2026 via Zoom.

Respectfully submitted,

Marguerite Tuthill

Secretary