The Town Board began a review of the Berthoud Economic Resource Team at the July 14 meeting in response to concerns previously expressed about the commission’s role and scope of authority. Trustee Michael Patrick said that in the haste to establish the economic development commission, the board had not set goals and parameters for it.

Town Administrator Jim White said there is a broader issue to consider relating to the use of Town resources and staff for BERT activities. “The breakfast called out the issue because it was a huge expense,” he said, referring to $2,000 the Town contributed to the event.

During the discussion, trustees debated whether to pursue BERT’s suggestions to hire a grant writer and economic development consultant. The board decided to continue the discussion at the July 28 board meeting.

Restoration Funds Approved
The Board of Trustees approved a $46,895 expenditure from the Town’s public facilities fund to renovate the police department building in the commercial historic district. The funds will be added to a grant of $109,414 from the state historic fund to rehabilitate the historic building, which is the former First National Bank. The extensive project includes reconstruction of parapet walls, repairing exterior brick and masonry and restoration of exterior windows.

Town Waives Fees for Habitat Store
The Town Board granted a waiver of development fees to construct a new commercial building for Berthoud Habitat for Humanity on property at the intersection of Mountain Avenue and Second Street. With the credit the organization has received, the revised permit cost will be $22,582 instead of $35,383. In approving the waiver, trustees noted the Habitat’s benefit to the community, which includes sales tax revenues.