Town wins EV car-share funding and e-bike grants; Ride and Drive set for June

Emily, representing the Clear program, told the board the town was part of a successful EV car-share grant application led by Colorado Car Share; the award will place vehicles across Mesa and Garfield counties and is expected to include one vehicle at town hall, but the program requires $42,000 in match funding and staff are working with the energy office on bridge-loan financing.

Emily also said the town won a Community Access to e-bikes grant intended to distribute 35–40 e-bikes for a modest participant contribution (about $150) if contracting with the energy office is completed; staff expect the contract to be finalized in July with distribution targeted for September.

The board was briefed on a June 5 'Ride and Drive' First Friday event (4–8 p.m.) that will showcase EV models and feature an outreach booth on Main Street. Emily said the police department will also show new electric Silverado vehicles and staff will coordinate a press release highlighting charger and fleet grants (named Charger Head Colorado and Fleet Zero in discussion).

Board members raised questions about local public charging availability and potential Tesla supercharger sites, and staff discussed tenant/landlord charging options, plug-in alternatives and utility rebate programs. Emily said staff will share more information and outreach materials on rebates and charging options for residents.

No formal action was taken; staff will continue grant contracting and outreach planning.