Montrose Fresh

Today: Sue Hansen is stepping down from the Montrose County Board of Commissioners four months before her term ends, saying an early transition will give likely successor Caryn Gibson time to learn the role while she leaves behind a legacy of community-focused leadership and major county initiatives. And later: Three men are facing first-degree murder charges in the November 2025 shooting death of Christopher Hubbell in Montrose County.Support the show: https://www.montrosepress.com/site/forms/subscription_services/See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Today... A Montrose teenager and his family restored a historic snow ball trolley to preserve a beloved summer tradition for future generations. And later... The Montrose County Fair and Rodeo is back for its 140th year, bringing more than a week of family events, agricultural traditions, and rodeo action.Support the show: https://www.montrosepress.com/site/forms/subscription_services/See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Today... A solemn procession crossed Colorado’s Western Slope on Monday, honoring a Canadian helicopter pilot who died while fighting the Gold Mountain Fire. And later... Montrose’s "Development and Revitalization Team" has had its funding restored after a major budget typo.Support the show: https://www.montrosepress.com/site/forms/subscription_services/See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Today... Donald Rodarte Junior faces second-degree murder and multiple related charges in the June 11th shooting death of Jesse Pagan, and is being held on a one million dollar bond pending a July 23rd preliminary hearing. And later... Three new hotels are planned for the Colorado Outdoors complex in Montrose.Support the show: https://www.montrosepress.com/site/forms/subscription_services/See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Today... The Montrose City Council voted 3 to 2 to reject a citizen charter commission and review potential ballot amendments itself, after Councilor Ed Ulibarri reversed his support, citing bullying from commission advocates. And later... Discounted season passes are now on sale for the "Fall Into Winter Concert Series" at the "Grand Mesa Arts and Events Center" in Cedaredge.Support the show: https://www.montrosepress.com/site/forms/subscription_services/See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Today... Montrose County commissioners unanimously approved a six-month moratorium on new data center applications in unincorporated areas while they study potential impacts on infrastructure, resources, zoning, and community character. And later... The Montrose Recreation District is hosting a two-day adaptive pickleball event July 17th and 18th, featuring a beginner night and a mixed doubles tournament pairing standing and seated athletes.Support the show: https://www.montrosepress.com/site/forms/subscription_services/See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Today... Montrose County marked America’s 250th anniversary with a brief courthouse ceremony that mixed patriotic reflection, recognition of local firefighters, and one attendee’s political protest. And later... Years after the Sunset Mesa case, remaining civil lawsuits are stalled because plaintiffs still can't get key federal records identifying whose remains were sold and to whom.Support the show: https://www.montrosepress.com/site/forms/subscription_services/See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Today... Montrose has canceled its Fourth of July fireworks because of wildfire danger, but will still celebrate with a heritage-themed parade, farmers’ market activities, food trucks, family events, dog shows, cornhole, and live music. And later... Two people are dead, and a 1-year-old girl is seriously injured, after a crash on Monday evening on US Five-Fifty near Solar Road.Support the show: https://www.montrosepress.com/site/forms/subscription_services/See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Today... Recent wildfires in southwest Colorado prompted Montrose County to postpone its fire summit and the City of Montrose to delay its July 4th fireworks show to August 1st, while other Independence Day events remain scheduled. And later... Sweet corn will still be available this summer, but drought, pests, water cuts, and higher costs mean the crop will be much smaller and harder to find.Support the show: https://www.montrosepress.com/site/forms/subscription_services/See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Today... Montrose Recreation District’s "Adaptive Biking Program" is expanding after a successful first year, adding more adaptive bikes, monthly rides, and a new Special Olympics cycling team for athletes with intellectual disabilities. And later... Justin Dahl’s 97-count animal cruelty case is set for an August trial, though it could be delayed depending on a defense expert’s report.Support the show: https://www.montrosepress.com/site/forms/subscription_services/See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Today... Montrose County approved about $60,000 in geotechnical drilling and water-flow analysis to determine how, whether, and at what cost the damaged, closed section of Kinikin Road can be safely repaired. And later... The Crested Butte Wildflower Festival runs July 10th through 19th, with several still-open events including art, guided hikes, ghost tours, photography, and yoga among the blooms.Support the show: https://www.montrosepress.com/site/forms/subscription_services/See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Today... Billy Goat hop farm is expanding its summer agritourism with new glamping units and the return of "Fridays on the Farm", featuring live music, food vendors, and regional craft beers made with Billy Goat hops. And later... "The Montrose Center for Arts" is hosting a premier Western Slope screening of "Georgia O’Keeffe: The Brightness of Light" on July 13th, at Fox Cinema Center in Montrose.Support the show: https://www.montrosepress.com/site/forms/subscription_services/See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Today... Drought and a late spring freeze have left Colorado bears unusually hungry and active near homes and campsites, so officials are urging people to secure trash, food, feeders, grills, pets, and livestock to prevent dangerous human-bear conflicts. And later... Mirza Ahmed, hired in 2025 as Montrose County’s public health director, is no longer working for the county as of Thursday.Support the show: https://www.montrosepress.com/site/forms/subscription_services/See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Today... Montrose City Council appears likely to create a citizens committee to review possible charter changes, despite Mayor Michael Badagliacco’s opposition and his push to put amendments directly on the November ballot. And later... Jake Shimabukuro is making a long trip from Hawaii to return to the Telluride Bluegrass Festival for the third time.Support the show: https://www.montrosepress.com/site/forms/subscription_services/See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Today... Montrose city leaders appear ready to restore more than $270,000 in Dart funding after a budget typo accidentally reduced the allocation to just over $4,000. And later... A wolf-themed truck is traveling Colorado to promote the "Born to Be Wild" license plate program, which raises money to help ranchers prevent conflicts with reintroduced wolves.Support the show: https://www.montrosepress.com/site/forms/subscription_services/See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Today... Montrose Mayor Michael Badagliacco reversed his support for a citizen charter review commission, saying city council should prepare charter amendments for the November ballot itself, including a disputed proposal to put the police chief under council oversight. And later... A fatal shooting is under investigation in Montrose County after deputies found one man dead on Kayla Trail on Thursday afternoon.Support the show: https://www.montrosepress.com/site/forms/subscription_services/See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Today... Chef Uma Stout, formerly behind the Baan Thai food truck, has opened Chef Uma’s Kitchen in Montrose to share authentic, regional Thai dishes and give customers a better sense of the chef behind the food. And later... Montrose has a busy week ahead, with classic cars, art, theater, music, and family events on the calendar.Support the show: https://www.montrosepress.com/site/forms/subscription_services/See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Today... Montrose County commissioners recently heard strong support for improving West End healthcare access, but residents were divided over whether a proposed health service district and future critical access hospital are feasible. And later... Montrose City Council’s refusal to read a Pride Month proclamation drew a packed crowd last week.Support the show: https://www.montrosepress.com/site/forms/subscription_services/See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Today... Montrose County commissioners heard broad support for better West End healthcare, but deep disagreement over whether a proposed tax-funded health service district and future critical access hospital is realistic, affordable, or the best solution. And later... After vandals broke windows at "Iglesia Verdad y Vida" in the historic Menoken Schoolhouse, community members rallied to help.Support the show: https://www.montrosepress.com/site/forms/subscription_services/See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Today... Montrose Pride Festival returns this weekend with its biggest celebration yet, adding new events, performances, family-friendly programming, an adult after party, and expanded year-round support for the local LGBTQ community. And later... At a June 2nd special meeting, Montrose County Superintendent Doctor Carrie Stephenson denied allegations that she intimidated Oh-laythe Elementary staff or interfered with an investigation.Support the show: https://www.montrosepress.com/site/forms/subscription_services/See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Today... Montrose County Superintendent Doctor Carrie Stephenson says allegations, raised by the school board President, are unfounded and politically motivated as the board considers placing her on paid suspension. And later... Police in Montrose are still searching for a motive after a shooting spree on Saturday morning that ended with the suspect dead.Support the show: https://www.montrosepress.com/site/forms/subscription_services/See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Today... The Montrose Regional Library will close on Saturdays starting August 1st to save money as it prepares for possible budget cuts if voters reject a renewed mill levy measure. And later... Colorado health officials have confirmed a measles case in a Delta County child under five.Support the show: https://www.montrosepress.com/site/forms/subscription_services/See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Today... Entegra Attachments has purchased Montrose-based TEI Rock Drills, but company leaders say local operations, leadership, employees, and Sue Frank’s presidency will remain in place during a smooth transition. And later... Wilder, the Generation Wild mascot from Great Outdoors Colorado, will be at the Bring on the Summer Outdoor Fest on Saturday, May 30th, from 11 to 4 at Riverbottom Park in Montrose.Support the show: https://www.montrosepress.com/site/forms/subscription_services/See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Today... West Slope water leaders warned that unprecedentedly low snowpack and drought in 2026 are forcing irrigators, Montrose officials, and residents to conserve, share limited supplies, and prepare for painful cutbacks. And later... Enduro Ranch is using the adobes of the Gunnison Gorge National Conservation Area as a summer training ground for young dirt bike riders.Support the show: https://www.montrosepress.com/site/forms/subscription_services/See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Today... Nashville-based Montrose native Erik Stucky is returning home to release his self-produced third album, Bag of Bones, with a Bluecorn show that celebrates his roots, growth and evolving folk-Americana sound. And later... Officer Riley Thompson, a recent academy graduate, has been sworn in as the newest patrol officer with the Montrose Police Department.Support the show: https://www.montrosepress.com/site/forms/subscription_services/See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Today... Montrose broke ground on its long-awaited Veterans Memorial Plaza, a community-backed tribute that will honor service members, veterans, and former sheriff Rick Dunlap with a permanent place for reflection and remembrance. And later... Mountain Film offers free Memorial Day weekend events including Town Park film screenings, a Spanish-language shorts block and art crawl, plus morning Coffee Talks, book signings, and outdoor activities.Support the show: https://www.montrosepress.com/site/forms/subscription_services/See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Today... A Waste Management driver noticed something strange on a hillside after his route — and moments later, his quick decision may have saved a young dirt biker’s life. And later... Work is continuing on a major upgrade to the Montrose Wastewater Treatment Plant, nearly two months after crews broke ground.Support the show: https://www.montrosepress.com/site/forms/subscription_services/See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Today... Rachel Leonard, a Montezuma County mother charged with first-degree murder in the death of her five-year-old daughter Annika, is set to stand trial in Cortez in October. And later... Former Montrose physical therapist, Ryan Williams, was sentenced to six years in prison for unlawful sexual contact involving a fake medical exam after women described betrayal, lasting trauma, and a pattern of alleged misconduct.Support the show: https://www.montrosepress.com/site/forms/subscription_services/See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Today... Montrose’s Art Crawls return this Thursday with artist pop-ups, hands-on activities, late-night downtown business participation, and a new scavenger hunt for hidden miniature art pieces. And later... May is Mental Health Awareness Month, and communities across Colorado’s Western Slope are showing support by lighting buildings green.Support the show: https://www.montrosepress.com/site/forms/subscription_services/See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Today... The Black Canyon Ascent returns May 16th as a six-mile uphill community race supporting wildfire recovery efforts at Black Canyon of the Gunnison National Park. And later... A man was hospitalized after Montrose police officers responding to a report of an armed man with a rifle fired their weapons, and the CBI is investigating.Support the show: https://www.montrosepress.com/site/forms/subscription_services/See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Today... Montrose City Council changed its public comment policy so residents can ask agenda-related questions during meetings and staff or council members may respond, while keeping the three-minute limit and rules against disruptive remarks. And later... The Montrose Mudder returns this weekend with muddy obstacles, kids and adult races, food trucks, a free concert, and proceeds benefiting the Montrose High School Rotary Interact Club.Support the show: https://www.montrosepress.com/site/forms/subscription_services/See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Today... Jesus Bikes, a Montrose charity that repairs donated bicycles for people in need, may shut down after longtime volunteer repairman Christopher Gallegos died, unless a new person or group steps in to keep the program running. And later... The Montrose Veterans Memorial will break ground May 15th after years of fundraising and planning, with features honoring veterans, major conflicts, and local service members.Support the show: https://www.montrosepress.com/site/forms/subscription_services/See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Today... Montrose County residents angrily opposed the possible vacation of a collapsing section of Kinikin Road, arguing the county’s past inaction helped create a dangerous, costly problem that now threatens their access, safety, and livelihoods. And later... Montrose’s first Black Canyon Pickleball Classic will bring doubles competition to the Rec Center on May 16th and 17th while raising money to help local families access recreation programs.Support the show: https://www.montrosepress.com/site/forms/subscription_services/See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Today... The Montrose County School Board voted to delay any elementary school closure decision until next year and rejected a proposal to place Superintendent Doctor Carrie Stephenson on leave. And later... Ridgway Area Trails opens today with six new miles of singletrack, adding nine new segments for riders of varying skill levels after years of volunteer work, grants, and community support.Support the show: https://www.montrosepress.com/site/forms/subscription_services/See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Today... Montrose Regional Airport is expanding its summer schedule with more flights to Los Angeles, Chicago, Houston, and Denver, giving travelers more options and boosting capacity by 5 percent over last year. And later... Montrose Center for Arts is showcasing student creativity through its Youth Invitational Art Exhibit, featuring local young artists, award winners, and additional spring art events.Support the show: https://www.montrosepress.com/site/forms/subscription_services/See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Today... Montrose is piloting a free phone recycling kiosk at the Visitor Center through April 30th, giving residents a secure and easy way to dispose of old devices during Earth Month. And later... The Curecanti Medical Society is accepting scholarship applications for people pursuing careers in health-related fields, including nurses, medical students, therapists, and clinic or hospital employees.Support the show: https://www.montrosepress.com/site/forms/subscription_services/See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Today... Six years after a 25-year-old Montrose man was fatally shot by a federal park ranger, his family is still pushing for accountability, and now their legal fight has entered a new phase. And later... Montrose middle schoolers will get another chance to learn mountain biking later this month, as a local skills camp returns April 27th through 30th.Support the show: https://www.montrosepress.com/site/forms/subscription_services/See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Today... Paradise Theater in Paonia is building a community-focused documentary program around films and post-screening discussions about culture, change, and resilience. And later... Colorado’s Next-Gen Ag Leadership Grants are open for organizations and schools supporting emerging agriculture leaders, with applications due on Friday, April 24th.Support the show: https://www.montrosepress.com/site/forms/subscription_services/See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Today... A judge is weighing whether former Colorado D.A Myrl Serra, convicted in a 2010 sex offense case, can be removed from the sex offender registry after he argued he has met all legal requirements while prosecutors said public safety still favors keeping him on it. And later... Colorado’s Palisade Insectary has opened a new grow-house to expand production of beneficial insects used to fight invasive weeds and pests across the state.Support the show: https://www.montrosepress.com/site/forms/subscription_services/See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Today... Colorado lawmakers are advancing a bill that would speed support for child sexual abuse victims by requiring faster notification to advocacy centers and expanding protections for minors testifying in court. And later... Montrose County declared April 12th through 18th National Public Safety Telecommunicators Week to honor WestCo dispatchers as the essential first link between the public and emergency responders.Support the show: https://www.montrosepress.com/site/forms/subscription_services/See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Montrose voters elected Michael Badagliacco, Adam Woodden, and incumbent Ed Ulibarri to the city council, with the winners set to be sworn in on April 21st after results are certified.Support the show: https://www.montrosepress.com/site/forms/subscription_services/See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Today... Montrose County School District is heading into what could be one of its toughest budget seasons in years, and district leaders are signaling that some big decisions may be ahead. And later... Montrose has officially made its municipal court a court of record, a change leaders say will improve transparency and streamline appeals.Support the show: https://www.montrosepress.com/site/forms/subscription_services/See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Today... The Montrose Economic Development Corporation says Montrose had a strong 2025, marked by new business growth, employer expansion, job retention efforts, and workforce development aimed at strengthening the local economy. And later… Montrose has a little bit of everything this weekend, from ballet and live music to a free concert, trivia, and a talk on ancient stone tools.Support the show: https://www.montrosepress.com/site/forms/subscription_services/See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Today... Police are investigating after employees at the Montrose Daily Press printing plant found a package containing about one pound of suspected meth, and a worker who was arrested on suspicion of related drug offenses after police allegedly found drugs in the vehicle she drove to the facility. And later... Montrose County residents can dispose of household waste for free at the Montrose Landfill on Saturday, April 18, but electronics, mattresses, tires, appliances, commercial waste, and out-of-county waste are excluded.Support the show: https://www.montrosepress.com/site/forms/subscription_services/See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Today... Montrose County has taken a major step toward building a long-planned Veterans Memorial Plaza, with construction potentially starting this spring on a community-backed tribute honoring veterans and military history. And later... Nearly a year after a wildfire damaged Black Canyon of the Gunnison, the park is showing both destruction and early signs of recovery as rebuilding moves forward slowly.Support the show: https://www.montrosepress.com/site/forms/subscription_services/See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Today... Montrose County has officially rehired former county manager Joe Kerby to return on June 15th at a $220,000 salary, hoping his experience will bring stability after a turbulent year in county leadership. And later... Grand Junction Media has bought the Montrose Daily Press, Delta County Independent, and Montrose Press production facility from Wick Communications, saying it will preserve the papers’ local independence while expanding regional news and advertising reach.Support the show: https://www.montrosepress.com/site/forms/subscription_services/See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Today... About 2,000 people joined the latest No Kings protest in Montrose, part of a nationwide day of demonstrations that organizers say drew 8 million people across more than 3,300 events. And later... Montrose County authorities are investigating several small Rim Road fires that burned about one acre as suspected arson because they appeared to be deliberately set in multiple spots amid dangerous dry, windy conditions.Support the show: https://www.montrosepress.com/site/forms/subscription_services/See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Today... Western Colorado irrigators are facing a record-bad water season, with sharply reduced deliveries, canceled pump contracts, and likely impacts on farms, crops, and food prices due to extremely low snowpack and poor runoff forecasts. And later... Montrose Rec District will keep Flex Rec open through at least the end of 2026, despite monthly losses, to avoid disrupting members before its new nearby facility is ready.Support the show: https://www.montrosepress.com/site/forms/subscription_services/See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Today... MsSo, a new fusion noodle bar on Montrose’s Main Street from Typhoon Hospitality, blends authentic Asian flavors with playful, modern twists as part of the group’s broader expansion in town. And later… The Montrose Lions Club honored Joseph Graff, Lainey Williams, and Kade Halderman as its outstanding students for March.Support the show: https://www.montrosepress.com/site/forms/subscription_services/See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Today... A Montrose city council candidate’s wife questioned the city’s ballot security ahead of the election, while officials and the candidate said her email was meant to clarify election safeguards rather than allege wrongdoing. And later... A Montrose couple recently launched Babysitter Briefing, an app that helps parents and caregivers track a child’s daily routine without constant texting.Support the show: https://www.montrosepress.com/site/forms/subscription_services/See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Today... A Colorado man was sentenced to an effective life term of 192 years for fatally stabbing Duane Hamn in 2023, though the sentence still faces proportionality review and appeal. And later... Montrose’s third "No Kings" protest is set for Saturday, March 28th, featuring a rally, a march on Townsend Avenue, and an inflatables dance party as part of a nationwide day of nonviolent demonstrations.Support the show: https://www.montrosepress.com/site/forms/subscription_services/See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.