Meeting Minutes
March 1, 2025

Call to Order:
The meeting was called to order by Cori Balch at 8:30 AM. The meeting commenced with a prayer, followed by the Pledge of Allegiance.

Introductions:
New Vice Chair, Neil Watko, and new Secretary, Theresa Phillips, were introduced to the attendees.

Discussion Topics:

1. TABOR Refund
   • The TABOR (Taxpayer’s Bill of Rights) refund, a Colorado law since 1992, requires the state to refund excess revenue based on inflation and growth.
   • In 2024, Colorado collected $1.4 billion more than its allowable revenue cap.
   • The previous tax season saw refunds exceeding $800 per taxpayer, but the 2025 tax season refund is projected to be significantly lower, ranging between $181 and $571, as per the Colorado Legislative Council.
2. Public Relations & Community Engagement
   • Discussion on local political discourse noted that Democrats in Gunnison have been critical in the local newspaper.
   • The approach to responding will be through education using factual articles and sources placed in the local paper rather than engaging in negative discourse.
   • Recommended media sources for staying informed included:
     • Rocky Mountain Voice – A platform providing news and commentary on state issues.
     • Unleashed with Heidi Ganahl – A political podcast.
     • net – A resource founded by Sherrona Bishop, advocating against government overreach and supporting children’s futures.

3. Republican Candidates for Colorado Governor
   • Two Republican candidates are running for Governor:
     • Scott Bottoms, Colorado State Representative from Colorado Springs.
     • Mark Baisley, Colorado State Senator from Roxborough Park and represents Colorado’s 4^th senate district.

4. Open Primary Discussion
   • A discussion took place regarding the potential removal of Republicans from the open primary system in Colorado.
   • The differences between caucus and ballot counts were also examined.

Voting on PCP Positions:
At 9:40 AM, a motion was made to vote on filling PCP (Precinct Committee Person) positions:

• District 10: Brian – 12 aye, 0 nay (Approved)
• District 12: Kyle – 12 aye, 0 nay (Approved)

Meeting Structure Changes:

1. Monthly Meetings:
   • A motion was made by Rebecca at 10:00 AM to modify the structure of gatherings.
   • Decision: The 1st Saturday of each month will remain the primary meeting at the Palisades. Speakers will be scheduled every other month, with flexibility for alternative locations (such as the library) if necessary.
2. Discontinuation of Second Wednesday Meetings:
   • A motion was made at 10:10 AM to discontinue the meeting held on the 2nd Wednesday of each month.
   • Motion passed with 18 aye (18 members in attendance)

Community Issues:

• Discussion regarding Gunnison County Commissioner Laura Puckett Daniels and her involvement with the Whetstone Community Housing Plan.
• Marcus Martin raised concerns about potential conflicts related to Commissioner Daniels’ role in the project.

Lincoln Day Celebration:

• Discussion took place regarding possible dates and venues for hosting the Lincoln Day Celebration.

Adjournment:
The meeting was adjourned at 10:50 AM.