About 30 Dolores business owners crowded into Town Hall Tuesday to discuss the future of business in this small town.
This was the second meeting called by concerned business owners; this one drew the largest crowd.
Business owners were hoping to enhance marketing for Dolores and events in town.
Taz Vass, said he hoped to see more business in town over the Fourth of July.
“Fourth of July, we want our own hometown proud party,” he said.
Many agreed with Vass.
“I think it’s sad we do nothing for the Fourth of July,” said Brenda Savage, owner of Cozy Comfort RV Park.
Town Manager Ryan Mahoney said that Wednesday nights in the summer can be expanded from the Farmers Market to other events in Flanders Park, such as music.
Others mentioned that a chili cook-off would be a great event for Dolores.
Others mentioned a history walk in town.
“We need to have some regular events to bring people in town,” Ruth Hensen, owner of Fusion Studios said.
Mahoney said that, using business license revenue, he hopes to make a sign that draws attention to businesses on Central Avenue and possible add flower pots on light poles in town.
Others suggested organizing a half marathon through town, starting at House Creek and ending in Dolores.
“It’s a very scenic run. It’s beautiful,” Joe Keck said.
Brenda Savage, owner of Cozy Comfort RV Park, said that it wasn’t fair that the town offers discounted camping at the town parks.
“When the town does that, I’m feeling it’s taking money from our pockets,” she said.
A harvest festival is scheduled for Sept. 15 this year, a new event organized by the Dolores Chamber of Commerce.
Still others suggested that while bringing more people into town, it was also important that locals shopped in town as well.
“Tourism does bring in money. But every time you shop in Farmington, that takes money out as well,” said Laura Lewis Marchino, of the Region 9 Economic Development District.