The Ute Mountain Roundup donated $35,000 toward the construction of the outdoor grandstands roof at the Montezuma County Fairgrounds.
To highlight local businesses who support the Ute Mountain Roundup, director Slim McWilliams organized an impressive photo-op with the obligatory giant check and a dozen local leaders.
“Businesses sometimes take a hit in this town, and we wanted to show the community we support them and appreciate their contributions,” McWilliams said.
Staff from the Ute Mountain casino, local bank presidents, business owners, political leaders, and energy officials gathered in the county commission board room Monday.
“We invited our largest sponsors. Without their contributions, we would not be here,” McWilliams said. “They have quietly stepped up and deserve a lot of credit.”
UMR chairman Rob Yates explained the 83-year-old organization is frugal with their financing, putting a little away after operating costs each year until they have a lump some to contribute towards a project.
“Instead of a little bit here and there, we save and donate a significant sum that makes a bigger impact,” he said. “We wanted to put it back into the fairgrounds that is an important part of our organization and for the community.”
Mr. Concrete and Construction, of Cortez, has been awarded the contract for installing a roof over the outdoor grandstands at the Montezuma County Fairgrounds.
Their successful bid was $245,227, and construction of the roof structure is expected to be finished by this year. The concrete pillars are in place. Steel beams will be going up soon, and then cranes will deploy the roof into position.
UMR’s Sue McWilliams wrote a successful grant proposal to the Department of Local Affairs and was awarded $75,000 for the grandstand roof. UMR kicked in an additional $35,000, and the rest was paid for from the county conservation trust fund, which comes from lottery money distributed by Great Outdoors Colorado.
“It is all paid for by contributions and grant money earmarked for recreational purposes,” said fairgrounds manager Tanner Young.
“It will be really nice. The crowd will be in the shade and be kept dry and comfortable during events.”
The UMR and their sponsors have a history of donating to the fairgrounds.
In 2009, they build livestock pens to increase capacity during events. To attract more attendees, they have also contributed additional prize money for contestants.
In 2011, UMR acquired the materials and paid for the labor to rebuild the announcer’s stand, providing insulation, windows, and a door.
In 2012, UMR bought the materials and paid for a chain link fence around the back of the grandstands. This improves the ability of any organization using the arena to collect admission fees.
Improvements UMR is committed to include adding restrooms and a concession stand under the grandstands, and a adding a sufficient number of horse stalls to make it possible for the fairgrounds to host large equine events.
“In the future we want to continue our financial support, made possible by our sponsors,” Yates said.