Keeping Our Community Informed: Energy and Community Forums That Matter

Over the past year, the Montezuma County Republicans have made it a priority to provide opportunities for our community to gather, learn, and engage in meaningful conversations about critical issues. One of the most successful ways we’ve done this is through our ongoing Community Forum Series.

These forums have been informative and eye-opening, offering a chance to hear directly from experts, industry leaders, and community stakeholders. Topics have ranged across essential services and industries, including:

• Oil & Gas – Understanding how this traditional energy source still impacts our local economy.

• Southwest Memorial Hospital System – Shedding light on healthcare challenges and updates.

• Empire Electric – A closer look at our regional electric co-op and what changes are coming.

• Solar Power – Exploring how renewable energy fits into our region's landscape.

• Nuclear Energy – A controversial but necessary discussion on long-term energy strategies.

Each of these forums has sparked open dialogue and provided attendees with the facts and perspectives they need to make informed decisions and stay engaged in local issues.

Upcoming Forums

We’re excited to announce our next guest will be Cleave Simpson, who recently traveled to Denmark to attend an international energy conference. He will share his insights and observations about how European countries—particularly Denmark—are handling their energy needs, and what lessons we might apply here at home.

In addition to energy topics, we're also turning our attention to other community concerns:

• Fire Mitigation Forum – As wildfires continue to threaten rural Colorado, this forum will focus on prevention, preparedness, and local strategies for reducing risk.

• Medicare Forum – Navigating Medicare can be complex, and this session will help residents understand the system, their options, and how to access the care they deserve.

Our goal has always been to equip our community with knowledge. These forums aren’t about telling you what to think—they’re about giving you the tools and the truth so you can think for yourself.

Stay tuned for exact dates and locations, and we invite you to join the conversation. An informed community is a strong community.

—Lenetta Shull Chair Montezuma County Republicans and JD22, Secretary CD3