Colorado Gov. Polis visited RFPD July 12

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Colorado Governor Jared Polis consults with Rico Fire Protection District and volunteer firefighters at Rico Firehouse - Tuesday, July 12, 2022. Photo: colorado.gov

Colorado Governor Jared Polis met with local fire leaders in Rico Tuesday afternoon to discuss support for first responders and communities as Colorado faces the reality of a year-round fire season.

"As we face the reality of a year-round fire season and the impacts of a changing climate, we are continuing to step up our nation-leading work preparing for and preventing wildfires, and I was proud to meet with local fire district leaders in Rico to discuss our continued support for Colorado’s brave first responders," stated Governor Polis.

 

Update

 

Responding to an Ore Cart request for additional information, Melissa Dworkin of the Colorado Governor's Office provided the following statement dated July 14, 2022:

The state awarded the Rico Fire Protection District $3,050 in 2021, following a $200,000 award in 2020. The Polis Administration continues to take bold action to prevent and prepare for wildfires, and to support Colorado's brave first responders, a top priority since day one. Gov. Polis this week met with fire district leaders in Rico, where the state has supported the fire station expansion project to ensure the first responders have the resources and infrastructure they need to keep communities safe. The Rico Fire District can also apply for state matching funds to support construction on the expansion.

Earlier this week, Governor Polis announced additional support for forest health and wildfire mitigation, protecting Colorado communities and preparing for the reality of the year-round wildfire season. The Polis Administration in partnership with the legislature, also announced unprecedented support for wildfire victims to help with the rebuilding process.

related:

The Journal (Cortez) - July 12, 2022

KSJD Local News (audio) - July 12, 2022

Note: Rico Fire Protection District did not provide Ore Cart prior notice of the Colorado Governor's visit to Rico.