DIRT, C of C Host First Meeting for Local Business Owners in Response to Elk Creek Fire

On Tuesday, July 14, a meeting was conducted through the collaborative efforts of Downtown Improvements and Revitalization Team (DIRT) and the Lake City/Hinsdale County Chamber of Commerce for local business owners, in response to the Elk Creek fire, to learn about resources available to businesses, ask questions about latest information, offer input on how DIRT and the Chamber could best support businesses, employees and residents, and share concerns, challenges and ideas.
Approximately 75 people attended, including local business owners, Lake City residents and summer visitors. The panel at the front of the room consisted of County Commissioners Kristie Borchers and Robert Hurd, and Chamber of Commerce Executive Director Kat Menzies.
Lake City DIRT and the Chamber of Commerce want to proactively communicate with business owners. This meeting was the first of weekly meetings, held to list specific concerns of business owners, and connect Lake City business owners with regional and statewide resources.
Borchers began the meeting telling the audience that these meetings will continue for Lake City business owners every Tuesday at 3 p.m. at the Commissioners meeting room; they will also be
DIRT, C of C Host First Meeting for Local Business Owners in Response to Elk Creek Fire available to attend via Zoom.
Additionally, Region 10 will be hosting a regional meeting for communities affected by wildfire since there are several mountain communities facing these same issues. These meetings occur weekly at noon on Tuesdays, and can be accessed through the Region 10 webpage.
Borchers went on to say, “Our economies are reliant on tourist business. Lake City DIRT and the Chamber of Commerce want to provide Lake City business owners direct, clear and concise information, while also messaging to our visitors that Lake City is currently under no immediate danger.”
Further, she said, “preparedness is a normal and responsible part of visiting a mountain community. I would highly recommend you encourage your guests and customers to be ready for potential wildfire impacts, as well as other challenges associated with high-altitude travel, so they can experience a safe and enjoyable vacation.”
Emergency Manager Phil Graham also spoke, providing current Elk Fire information. Colorado Main Street director Gayle Langeley answered questions about resources available. Joni Adelman of the Silver Thread Public Health District spoke about the Purple Air monitoring system for smoke impacts.
Several business owners spoke, expressing their concerns about recent cancellations and how to further encourage messaging that Lake City remains open for business.
For more information, visit the Chamber of Commerce webpage, and WORLD will continue coverage of these meetings as they subsequently occur.