Fraser Transitions to Interim Town Manager

After over 19 years of service to the Town of Fraser, Jeff Durbin will be concluding his time as Town Manager on December 31st. Over his time as Town Manager, Jeff has championed efforts to enhance Fraser’s position both economically and sustainably over his tenure with significant improvements to the Town’s capacity to provide a high level of service to the community. One of Jeff’s favorite memories from his time as Fraser’s Town Manager has been the opportunity to work with so many great people in the community, and the dedicated and talented staff. He notes that “Fraser is an amazing community and will always hold a special place in my heart.” Thank you Jeff for your service to the Town of Fraser and best of luck to you in your endeavors! 

After conducting a hiring and interviewing process for an Interim Town Manager, the Fraser Town Board of Trustees has chosen Wesley LaVanchy from Frederick, CO. Wes brings with him over 20 years of combined experience as a Town Manager, municipal consultant, and has fulfilled the role as Interim Town Manager for two other towns. Wes will function as the Interim Town Manager until a permanent Town Manager is hired.

Funky Fraser goes Hi-Tech launching virtual programs

The Town of Fraser has launched a virtual coupon book offering the “Best of Fraser” discounts at local restaurants, retail stores, services and lodging. To sign up for the Fraser Fun-Key pass, visit explore.frasercolorado.com.

Fraser’s Public Arts Committee (PAC) has also catalogued some of the Town’s public art installations, including sculptures and chairlift benches. An interactive map provides information on the artwork and its location, allowing for a self-guided tour of the arts on exhibit. The link is available in our online edition. To learn about the Fraser PAC, visit frasercolorado.com.

Level 3 Charging Station Online

The level 3 fast-charging station at the Lions Ponds in Fraser is now active and available for public use. Fraser is proud to host the first universal electric vehicle fast-charging station in Grand County and marks another great stride for the Town’s adopted sustainability initiatives. This project was made possible with an awarded grant through the Colorado Energy Office’s “Charge Ahead Colorado” and Mountain Park Electric’s “Electrify Everything” programs. 

If you own, or are thinking about owning an electric vehicle, the main advantage of using a fast-charging station is that it requires much less time to charge your vehicle. While other more commonly used level 2 charging stations will typically take about between 5-8 hours (depending on battery size) to go from 0% to 80% charge, Fraser’s new fast-charging station will only take about 45-60 minutes to achieve an 80% charge.

While your vehicle is charging, you can enjoy the outdoor offerings of the Cozens Ranch Open Space, visit a variety of nearby stores, or grab a bite to eat.

Granby Police Chief announces departure

On Monday, Granby Police Chief Jim Kraker sent a letter to the citizens and guests of Granby and Grand County announcing that, after 30 years of service in Grand County, “the time has come for my wife and I to continue our journey elsewhere.”

Kraker has served with the Granby Police Department since it was created in 2005. He held the position of Patrol Sergeant for several years before being promoted to Chief of Police in 2017. 

While a last day has not yet been announced, the staff at the Winter Park Times thanks Chief Kraker for his dedication, integrity and service. We wish Jim and his wife Renee all the best in their new endeavors.

Parking for Curbside Service

The Town of Winter Park has added short-term parking zones along US 40 to aid with curbside service. Customers can pull into these areas to pick-up or drop-off food, gear and supplies without leaving their car. The parking zones will be available through the duration of the winter season. The parking zones are located in front of Cooper Creek Square, on each side of Wanderer’s Way (in front of Epic Mountain Sports and Hideaway Brewery) and near Rollin’ Street Bakery. Note that these are not “official” parking spots.

Seemann resigns from Town Council

At their final meeting of 2020 on December 15th, the Winter Park Town Council bid adieu to Councilor Chris Seemann. Having served on Town Council since 1998, Seeman tendered his resignation in a letter to Mayor Nick Kutrumbos and the Council on December 9th.

In the letter, Seemann said, “It has been an honor to serve the Winter Park community for these past 20+ years. With my still busy skiing travel schedule and off season plans with my family, I feel it is time to step down from my council position.”

In his time on council, the Town of Winter Park has grown to near capacity. Chris’ astute participation and guidance as well as his candor helped ensure responsible growth.

“I am extremely proud of what the Town of Winter Park has accomplished and look forward to its exciting future,” said Seeman, adding, “I believe the Town of Winter Park is in great hands with a passionate Mayor and Town Council, as well as an excellent Town Manager and dedicated staff.” 

With Seemann’s resignation date effective December 31, the Town needs to fill the vacancy within 30 days to work within their Home Rule guidelines and avoid outside intervention. 

Town of Winter Park looking to fill council vacancy

The Town of Winter Park is looking for qualified individuals to serve on the Town Council. Applicants must be a citizen of the United States, a qualified elector of the Town of Winter Park, and have resided in the Town for at least one year. Council members meet on the first and third Tuesday of each month at 3 pm for workshops and 5:30 pm for regular meetings.

Those interested in applying should submit a letter of interest and resume by 8 am on January 18, 2021, to the Town Clerk, Dani Jardee, at djardee@wpgov.com or drop off at Town Hall, 50 Vasquez Rd, Winter Park, CO 80482. The Town Council will interview interested candidates at the Town Council Workshop on January 19, 2021 at 3 pm.

For additional information about the vacancy, contact Dani at (970) 726-8081 ext. 208 or djardee@wpgov.com.