CAPULIN — The Conejos County Library, Capulin Project, has received a significant shot in the arm, according to the Colorado Department of Local Affairs (DOLA).
In a letter to Library Director Maria DeHerrera, DOLA Executive Director Irv Halter acknowledged receipt of the application for state Energy and Mineral Impact Assistance Funds, derived from oil, gas, carbon dioxide, coal and metals extracted in Colorado.
Halter wrote that the project was reviewed based on a variety of factors such as its connection to energy impact, degree of need, measurable outcomes, amount of request, relationship to community goals, level of local match and community support, management capacity and readiness to go.
“Competition for these limited funds was intense, and we had many more requests than we had funds available,” Halter wrote. “After thorough review, I am excited to offer a grant award in the amount of $96,228.”
A former residence in Capulin has been identified as location for the library and approved by the Conejos Board of County Commissioners, who offered necessary help to get the project moving.
Halter concluded, “As you begin construction of your project, I ask that you hang a banner on site, which will be provided by DOLA, to assist in demonstrating the partnership between the state and local governments while acknowledging the industry’s contributions to the impact program. Additionally,DOLA would like to send a plaque memorializing the funding partnership when the project is complete."