Cortez Honors Veterans

Cortez wants to make the month of November a month for veterans. One of Colorado's top economic prizes is putting the spotlight on our region, and the city council is considering a zoning change that would allow accessory apartments. You're watching the Local News Roundup brought to you by Ute Mountain Casino Hotel and Choice Building Supply Ace Hardware. I'm Wendy Graham Settle. Cortez is taking part in the Greenlight a Vet campaign throughout November. Leaders are encouraging residents to change at least one visible light to a green light. Mayor Rachel Medina says doing so will help show your support for veterans service. The mayor says it's a small way to say thank you to some of the hardest-working, bravest members of our country. Veterans Day is November 11th, but Greenlight a Vet runs the entire month. You can also map your light for every veteran to see online at greenlightmap.com. The Economic Development Council of Colorado has announced this year's EDIE Awards. EDIE Awards recognize economic development excellence and represent outstanding achievements by its members, organizations, communities, individuals and legislatures. Since 1989, over 200 awardees have been recognized. This year, 11 awardees were recognized for their work and contributions to Colorado's economic development. Four awardees hail from Southwest Colorado. The EDIE for the Small Business of the Year is the town of Pagosa Springs and Archuleta County for their work in expanding broadband in rural communities and recognizing the importance of economic development. The Legislator Lifetime Achievement Award went to Representative Barbara McLachlan, who was recognized for her leadership in strengthening Colorado's economy through public policy achievement. The Economic Development Partnership of the Year went to Pueblo Community College, recognized for its leadership and support for the community through workforce preparation, retention programs and training programs. The Chairman's Choice Award recognized Laura Lewis Marchino from the Region 9 Development District for her multi-year commitment to the Economic Development Council of Colorado and the exceptional work she's contributed. To learn more about the other EDIE Award winners and the Economic Development Council of Colorado, visit edcconline.org. The City of Cortez wants to know what you think about a proposed zoning change, allowing accessory dwelling units, or ADUs. ADUs are secondary properties that a homeowner would be able to rent out to a member of the local workforce. ADUs are getting more recognition across Colorado as a low-impact and low-cost method of creating more affordable housing. The Cortez City Council is holding a public comment session during its November 22nd meeting. If you can't make it to the meeting, you can submit comments online or email them to pio@cortezco.gov. That's it for this week's Local News Roundup. I'm Wendy Graham Settle.

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