Commissioners approve veterans transportation IGA and a grant-funded driver to connect Norwood, Ridgeway and Grand Junction

San Miguel County commissioners approved an intergovernmental agreement with Uray County on Sept. 16 to operate a grant-funded veterans transportation service and authorized a part-time driver position to pilot the program.

Veterans Service Officer Mikyle (Mikyle) Madson told the board the purchased vehicle has arrived and will be stored in Norwood; foundation and grant funds will cover driver wages for the pilot. Madson described an initial limited-week schedule (Wednesdays) and a reservation intake that verifies veteran eligibility with a DD214 and proof of county residency. "The vehicle has been delivered. It's sitting right now. It's going to sleep in Norwood," Madson said, and staff proposed a slow launch in October while administrative systems and driver training are completed. The board approved the IGA and creation of the driver position; staff said the program will track monthly usage and veteran feedback to evaluate expansion.