Fort Lewis College: an administrative history, 1947-1973 Documentation of its land and property rights and other historical aspects Note: this prints out as 159 pages.

The evolution from the Fort Lewis branch of Colorado A & M College to Fort Lewis A & M College to Fort Lewis College, from December 29, 1947 through December 12, 1973, as documented and prepared by Joseph P. Perino, [Former] Director, Facilities Planning, Fort Lewis College, Durango, Colorado, 2005

Introduction

Table of contents

Chapter 1: The late 1940s and the 1950s

Chapter II: The 1960s

Chapter III: The early 1970s

Introduction This documentary [report] depicts the evolution and development of Fort Lewis College on its campus located in Durango, Colorado.  The period covered within this text begins on December 29, 1947 with the things that occurred which lead to the decision of the State Board of Agriculture to take the Fort Lewis Branch of Colorado A & M College and make it into a separate institution from Colorado A & M College in Fort Collins, Colorado.  At that time the institution became Fort Lewis A & M College and was held on the same plain as Colorado A & M College under the direction and leadership of the State Board of Agriculture.  This documentary cover’s the full administrations of the first two Presidents of the College and part of the third as the institution went through all of the processes of moving the campus from its original site south of Hesperus, Colorado into the City of Durango.  It reflects all of the actions in the expansion of the land holdings, in and around the Durango campus, and ends with the State Board of Agriculture meeting that was held on December 12, 1973.  Additionally, the documentary reports situations that were concurrently occurring with the Hesperus campus to include mineral leasing, water rights issues, farm activity and other items, as well as the relationship with Colorado State University in regards to the Experimental Station, that is located on the Hesperus campus.  This documentary also tracks the physical building that occurred on the Durango campus during that period.  Research for this project highlights the tenacity, energy and foresight of each of the Presidents to make possible what has occurred to and for Fort Lewis College.  It would be fair to state from research that Dr. Charles Dale Rea’s foresight about the necessity of getting the campus into the City of Durango and with the assistance of many of Durango’s leaders of the time was the only reason that the institution survived.  There were many different attempts to have it closed down and yet through all of that the College was able to grow and prosper.  As the College developed and grew it can be seen how the thoughts, ideas and foresight of each of the presidents influenced where the campus is today and what it ultimately has become.

Table of contents Introduction Chapter I:  The late 1940s and the 1950s Chapter II:  The 1960s Chapter III:  The early 1970s

Chapter I: The late 1940s and the 1950s

December 29, 1947 Colorado State Board of Agriculture meeting

A delegation from the San Juan Basin consisting of the following named persons appeared and discussed with the Board the Fort Lewis situation and the action taken on December 10, 1947, with respect to E. H. Bader, Dean of the Fort Lewis Branch, the first named acting as chairman of the delegation and the second named as chief spokesman: Laverne McKelvey, R. Franklin McKelvey, Elizabeth E. Pellet, Earl Ewing, Emory E. Smiley, James M. Noland, Dan Hunter, Ira Kelly, Charles I. Porter, Everett Dunagan and Alton Dorsett.  Following statements by the delegation, Chairman Laverne McKelvey presented “proposals and objectives” of the delegation.

The Board continued its session, giving consideration to the “proposals and objectives” of the delegation, with actions as indicated, as follows:

“That a complete audit be made of both institutions, the home institution at Fort Collins and the branch institution at Fort Lewis, by an independent Certified Public Accounting firm;

That in light of information and facts now in the hands of this group, and presented at the State Board of Agriculture, the group, as citizens and taxpayers of Colorado, vitally interested in the welfare in its higher education institutions, requests and urge that the State Board of Agriculture conduct a complete and exhaustive investigation of the entire administrative affairs of Colorado State College of Agriculture and Mechanical Arts.”

Upon motion and second, action on the foregoing proposals was postponed for consideration at the meeting of January 17, 1948.

“That the resolution ordering the dismissal of Dean E. H. Bader be held in abeyance until the above mentioned audit and investigation is complete and made public.”

It was moved and seconded that the time required for the filing of the resignation of Dean E. H. Bader and for acceptance of conditions regarding leave and termination of employment, as set at the meeting of December 10, 1947, be extended from January 1, 1948 to June 30, 1948, without otherwise changing the conditions specified at that time.  The motion failed.

Upon motion and second, the Board approved the following proposal relating to the Fort Lewis Branch:

“A compete separation of the business and financial affairs of the two schools, the Fort Collins home institution and the Fort Lewis Branch, and the business office at Fort Lewis being responsible directly to the State Board of Agriculture, the State Auditor, the State Treasurer and the State Controller and all reports from that business office go directly to the foregoing agencies, subject to no control by the business office of the home institution at Fort Collins.  The President at Fort Collins periodically to receive copies of essential reports.” 

Upon motion and second, it was provided that the President of the Board shall appoint a committee of three to study the feasibility of this proposal and report to the Board as soon as possible.

“An official statement in the form of a Memorial from the State Board of Agriculture as to their policy for the future of the Fort Lewis School.”

Upon motion and second, provision was made as follows: Since the State Board of Agriculture feels that a study should be made of the aims and objectives of the Fort Lewis Branch, it is agreed that for that purpose a committee shall be appointed by the President of the Board and named at the meeting of January 17, 1848, consisting of two members of the Board, two members of the resident instruction faculty of Colorado A & M College at Fort Collins, and two members of the resident instruction faculty of the Fort Lewis Branch, this committee to be given sufficient time and facilities to make a complete study of the situation at Fort Lewis and report to the Board its recommendations for a declaration of policy.

The Secretary of the Board informed the delegation from the San Juan Basin of the actions taken by the Board in respect to the “proposals and objectives” presented by the group.

January 17, 1948 Colorado State Board of Agriculture meeting

In accord with instructions by the Board at its meeting of December 29, 1947, President of the Board Miller reported appointment of committees as follows:

To consider the proposal of the San Juan Basin delegation that there be “a complete separation of the business and financial affairs of the two schools, the Fort Collins home institution and the Fort Lewis Branch”, Elmer Hartner (Chairman), Edward H. Divelbiss, and George McClave.

To consider the proposal of the San Juan Basin delegation that there be “an official statement.., as to their policy for the future of the Fort Lewis School,”  Alfred M Camp, Chairman; T. C. McPherson, S.S. Wheeler, David H. Morgan, W. Norton Jones, Jr., and Walter C. Butler.

Upon motion and second, the President’s report of committee appointments was accepted.

At 10 o’clock a.m., a committee representing the Durango Chamber of Commerce appeared for conference with the Board, membership of the committee being as follows: Louis J. Baudino, president; Laverne McKelvey, past president; R. Franklin McKelvey, Fred V. Kroeger and Earl Ewing.  Following discussion of the situation of the Fort Lewis Branch, the Board recessed at 11:50 o’clock for lunch at the Armstrong Hotel, with members of the Durango delegation as guests.

After the Board resumed its session at 1:50 o’clock p.m., two letters from Dean Bader to Raman Miller, President of the State Board of Agriculture were written into the meeting minutes for consideration.

Upon motion and second, the letters were referred to the committee previously appointed to make recommendations regarding the future of the Fort Lewis Branch.

With reference to the proposal made by the San Juan Basin delegation, during the December 29, 1947 meeting, concerning a complete audit, by an Independent Certified Public Accountant, of both institutions, it was agreed upon motion and second, that in all probability an audit would not reveal anything new and would incur a considerable amount of expense, no audit shall be conducted unless new information is developed as a result of the work of the committee previously appointed, which might indicate desirability of an audit.

With reference to the proposal made by the delegation, that the Board conduct a complete and exhaustive investigation of the entire administrative affairs of the Colorado State College of Agricultural and Mechanical Arts, it was agreed upon motion and second,, that the request be tabled until the work of the committee previously appointed is completed and their reports submitted and it is known whether the reports indicate the desirability of such an investigation.

 

February 21, 1948 Colorado State Board of Agriculture meeting

William Eakes, Charles Skinner and Fred V. Kroeger, all of Durango, appeared before the Board and presented petitions addressed to Governor F. Lee Knous and the Board requesting the following:

1.          The branch college at Fort Lewis be continued as an institution of higher learning of collegiate rank;

2.          The college at Fort Lewis be made independent with its own President responsible directly to the State Board of Agriculture and with its own business office, its own registrar’s office, and all other departments and agencies of the institution responsible through its president to the said Board and proper officials of state government, and to them only;

3.          A committee of citizens of the San Juan Basin be selected to meet regularly with the State Board of Agriculture in an advisory capacity regarding the affairs of the college at Fort Lewis;

4.          At the February 1948 meeting of the State Board of Agriculture Mr. E. H. Bader be reinstated as the administrator over all its departments, agencies and activities.

Discussion of the Fort Lewis situation followed, during part of which Mac Gersbach, chief clerk in the administrative office at the Fort Lewis Branch, was present.

Attention was directed to an item contained in the President’s report that described plans for the Fort Lewis policy committee to visit Panhandle A & M College in Goodwell, Oklahoma.

Consideration was given proposed building construction projects at the Fort Lewis Branch as submitted by E. H. Bader, Dean, listing buildings in order of preference as follows:

1           Agriculture and livestock pavilion, estimated minimum cost of $14,000.

2           Addition to chemistry building, estimated cost of $7,000.

3           Addition to gymnasium, estimated cost of $4,500.

4           Remodeling of commissary, estimated cost of $1,500.

Upon motion and second, approval was given the construction of an agriculture and livestock pavilion, for which plans, specifications, and detailed cost estimates are to be submitted to the Board for later approval and for submitting to the State Planning Commission with request for allocation of funds.

March 17, 1948 Colorado State Board of Agriculture meeting

Attention was directed to a letter received by James R. Miller, Secretary of the State Board of Agriculture, dated March 9^, 1948, which contained an advisory opinion that had been requested by the State Board of Agriculture on the following matters from the State of Colorado Attorney General’s Office:

1.          Would there be legal objection to a complete separation of the Administration of Colorado A and M College and its Fort Lewis Branch, both schools remaining under the jurisdiction and control of the State Board of Agriculture?

2.          Would it be possible under present statutes for the State Board of Agriculture to designate an individual at Fort Lewis to act in the capacity of chief financial officer of the Fort Lewis Branch, such individual to be other than the treasurer of the State Board of Agriculture and to act independently of the treasurer, being held responsible directly to the Board?

The following contains the opinion that was rendered by State of Colorado Attorney General Office:

April 9, 1948 Colorado State Board of Agriculture meeting

Upon motion and second, the following was agreed upon regarding the financial situation of the Fort Lewis Branch: That the President of the Board shall appoint a member of the Board, in addition to himself and Mr. Camp, to serve on a committee to include Board President Newsom and Treasurer Joseph M Whalley, with Dean Bader and only such members of his office staff as he may designate, to work with an auditor from a nationally known and recognized auditing firm which has not previously audited records either of Colorado A & M College or its Fort Lewis Branch: this committee, with the auditor, shall at the earliest possible date audit at the Fort Collins institution all accounts pertaining to the Fort Lewis Branch, and all records of the Fort Lewis Branch necessary to such procedure, which shall be brought to Fort Collins; that at the conclusion of its work, the auditor and committee shall make a written report to the Board, over the signature of all members, stating its findings; and that the auditor shall be selected by this procedure: Dean Bader shall suggest three nationally known and recognized auditing firms with offices in Denver from which the Board members of the committee shall select on for the work, the list to be in the Secretary’s office by April 19, 1948.  Upon motion and second,, the Secretary was instructed to inform Dean Bader of the wishes of the Board regarding selection of auditors, with instructions to provide his list to the Secretary not later than April 19, 1948.

The Secretary was instructed to notify Dean Bader of the Fort Lewis Branch, in connection with his preparation of the 1948-49 budget, to formulate, in addition to the usual form of requested budget, a supplemental budget indicating the additional personnel and the estimated additional administrative costs which would be necessary in event of separation of the Business Office of the Branch from that of the parent institution.

May 12, 1948 Colorado State Board of Agriculture meeting

Mr. Hartner, as chairman of the Board Committee on Separation of the Fort Lewis Branch from the parent institution, presented the committee’s report and moved its acceptance as follows:

On December 29, 1947, a delegation from the San Juan Basin presented a proposal to the State Board of Agriculture, which read in part as follows:

“A complete separation of the business and financial affairs of the two schools, Fort Collins, home institution, and Fort Lewis Branch, and the business office of Fort Lewis being directly responsible to the State Board of Agriculture, State Auditor, State Treasurer, and Controller, and all reports from that business office go directly to the foregoing agencies subject to no control by the business office of the home institution at Fort Collins.  The President of Fort Collins to periodically receive copies of essential reports.”

Following the action of your Board, your President appointed a committee to study the feasibility of this proposal and to report to the Board as soon as possible.  After having given this matte approximately four months thought and study and having secured the opinion of the Attorney General, State of Colorado, where we quote in part as follows:

“It is my conclusion:

1.           The title of the Fort Lewis School is vested in the State of Colorado

2.           The State Legislature has given the control of said Fort Lewis School to the State Board of Agriculture to operate the said school, as “a part of the Agricultural College system of the state”, in such manner as to it shall seem most advantageous, whether that operation is through the college at Fort Collins, partly through the college at Fort Collins, or impendent of Fort Collins.

3.           It is my conclusion the Board in its discretion can set up such internal organization as it shall seem best suited to make it function as “a part of the agricultural system of the state”.

We report merely that separation is legally permissible.

The motion made by the chairman of the committee was seconded and approved unanimously.

Mr. Camp, as chairman of the Board committee on Fort Lewis policy, presented the committee’s report as follows:

Functions as defined in the letter dated January 21, 1948 from the President of the State Board of Agriculture.

The Committee will be expected to begin its work as soon as possible, at the latest during the last half of February, but it will be expected also to take a sufficient amount of time to gat a clear understanding of the whole situation, for which purpose it will probably be necessary to hold meetings both at Fort Lewis and Fort Collins and to consult with interested parties wherever they may be.  The committee will not concern it self with reviewing the recent unfortunate developments at Fort Lewis, except as they might point the way to a plan for better relations in the future.  The desire of the State Board of Agriculture is to establish the best possible school at Fort Lewis under the limitations of the State laws governing that institution and the funds made available by the State.  Any general program or policy having this end in view will be welcomed.  Details are not essential; broad principals are more important.  The committee met as follows:

1.          Organizational meeting at Fort Collins, February 20, 1948.

2.          Inspection of Panhandle A & M College at Goodwell, Oklahoma on February 23, 1948.

3.          Discussion of survey of Panhandle A & M, Monday evening, February 23 1948 in Guymon, Oklahoma.

4.          Inspection of Fort Lewis and interviews with Fort Lewis personnel at Fort Lewis, April 12, 1948.

5.          Public meeting in Durango, April 13, 1948.

6.          Continued hearings at Fort Lewis with personnel and students, April 14, 1948.

7.          Inspection of Branch Agricultural College, Cedar City, Utah, by one committee member and Mr. McLain of Fort Lewis faculty, April 22 and 23, 1948.

8.          Meeting at Fort Collins to formulate recommendations, May 10 and 11, 1948.

After careful study of the existing situation, of the opinions expressed in the testimony of representatives of various organizations in the San Juan Basin, and of the policies and practices for institutions similar to Fort Lewis, your committee makes the following recommendations:

1.          That the Fort Lewis Branch of Colorado A & M College be established as Fort Lewis Agricultural and Mechanical College under a separate President directly responsible to the State Board of Agriculture of Colorado, which should hold an annual meeting at Fort Lewis while, school is in session.

2.          That the President should attend all meetings of the State Board of Agriculture and that time should be allocated to him, to present his monthly report and to make recommendations on matters requiring Board action.  He should prepare the budget and, upon its approval by the State Board, present the financial needs of the College to the State Legislature.

3.          That all college personnel should be directly responsible to the President and that all functions of the College, except those dependent upon cooperation with the Colorado Experimental Station, should be under his direct control.

4.          That all present two-year programs of instruction be continued and strengthened and that the three-year program designed to train teachers for rural elementary schools be continued for the present and expanded for a four-year course as the demand and facilities warrant.

5.          That, in conformity with current educational thought concerning decentralizing educational facilities, the curriculum be expanded ultimately to include four-year programs for the bachelor’s degree in various fields as demand and facilities warrant.

6.          That the need for vocational and related courses be investigated with the idea of providing such service as may be a contribution to the welfare and general development of the San Juan area.

7.          That a Bursar-Purchasing Agent be appointed, responsible to the President, to manage all business matters of the College and to act as purchasing agent thereof.

8.          That the Vice President also serve as Registrar and Director of Admissions and perform other administrative duties connected with the educational work of the College.

9.          That the farm and grazing lands, herds and flocks at Fort Lewis A & M College be placed in charge of a Head of a Department of Agriculture and that he be charged with the responsibility of cooperating with the personnel of the San Juan Branch Experiment Station.

10.        That the primary objectives governing the agricultural program at Fort Lewis should be as follows:

a.    To provide material for teaching agriculture and to afford practical experience for students enrolled in agriculture at Fort Lewis A & M College.

b.    To serve as a headquarters for research on agricultural problems of importance to the San Juan Basin.

c.    To demonstrate improved and up-to-date agricultural practices to farmers and ranchers in the San Juan Basin, and to serve as a center of information on such practices.

d.    To distribute improved animal and plant stocks for the improvement of livestock and crops in the San Juan Basin.

e.    To supply the institution’s needs for meat, milk, eggs and vegetables.

11.        That applied research in Agronomy, Horticulture and Animal Husbandry should receive strong financial support from the Colorado Agricultural Experiment Station.  Full support of research by Fort Lewis College should be provided through the use of adequate land, irrigation water, and such other facilities as may be available.  Clear-cut memoranda of agreement should be drawn up between the Colorado Agricultural Experiment Station and Fort Lewis College regarding the responsibilities of personnel, financial support, and use of Fort Lewis facilities.

12.        Those immediate actions be taken to protect water rights, that steps be taken to store for more effective use the water from the Taylor and Lory Springs, and that the possibility of storing flood waters of the La Plata River be given immediate consideration.

13.        Those immediate steps be taken to mark and harvest, under the supervision of a competent forester, mature pine timber, and that steps be taken to utilize other natural resources as circumstances permit.

14.        That an audit of all Fort Lewis accounts and of all accounts of Colorado A & M College at Fort Collins in any way connected with Fort Lewis Branch be made by a firm of certified public accountants, said audit to start on June 30, 1944.  All accounts should be brought in to balance and reconciled and adequate books of account be opened and maintained at Fort Lewis.  The Board should require annual audits thereafter.

In conclusion, the Committee wishes to state that in its visit to Panhandle A & M College it was greatly impressed by the ability of that institution to produce foodstuffs, furniture and other articles for use by the College and by the significant support given the institution by the Oklahoma Legislature.  At Cedar City the strong community and legislative support given the Utah Branch Agricultural College also impressed the Committee.  In view of existing circumstances at Fort Lewis immediate action on these recommendations is urged.

Upon motion and second, Board approval was given to adopt the report of the Fort Lewis Policy Committee, effective July 1, 1948, with the additional provision to recommendation No. 1 that “the President of Colorado A & M College shall continue to serve also as President of Fort Lewis A & M College until such time as a president shall have been appointed and installed at the latter college”.

Upon motion and second, the Special Fort Lewis committees were discharged and the Secretary was instructed to express in letters to members of the Fort Lewis Policy Committee the Board’s appreciation of their work.

The Secretary was instructed to obtain information regarding possibilities of using engineering students to survey possible dam sites for the Fort Lewis Branch

With respect to the possible sales of ponderosa pine timber at the Fort Lewis Branch the Secretary was instructed to notify E.W. Nelson of the Board’s wish that he cruise this timber in July and report to the Board the approximate volume of salable timber available.

Upon motion and second, the Board approved that E. H. Bader, Dean of the Fort Lewis Branch, be notified to accept or reject on or before Saturday, May 22, 1948, the Board’s proposal as follows: That his active duty status end at the close of work on June 30, 1948, and that thereafter he be on one year’s special employment to terminate at the end of that time on June 30, 1949, these provisions to be conditional upon their acceptance in writing on or before May 22, 1948, in full and complete settlement of any and all obligations to him by the State Board of Agriculture; and that unless this proposal is accepted as indicated, his employment shall end on June 30, 1948.

Upon motion and second, the President of the Board was instructed to visit the Fort Lewis Branch in the immediate future in the interest of improved relationships with the institution and its faculty.

June 17, 1948 Colorado State Board of Agriculture meeting

I. E. Newsom, President of the State Board of Agriculture, reported on his visit to the Fort Lewis Branch and directed attention to a letter addressed to him from Dean E. H. Bader dated May 21, 1948.

The Vice President of the State Board, Harry L. Dotson, read a letter from C. W. McLain, Assistant Dean, regarding budget, personnel and organizational matters relating to the Fort Lewis Branch.

Upon motion and second, the Board authorized the faculty of the Fort Lewis Branch to select by preferential ballot a committee of three to screen candidates for the presidency of the institution and to make recommendations to the State Board of Agriculture of availability of men, keeping in mind always that this committee will act only in an advisory capacity and that the responsibility of selecting the president rests finally, in the Sate Board of Agriculture.

Upon motion and second, the Board appointed Charles W. McLain acting dean of the Fort Lewis Branch, effective as of June 1, 1948, to serve at the pleasure of the Board or until the installation of a president for the institution.

Upon motion and second, the Board approved the plans and specifications for an Animal Husbandry Building at the Fort Lewis Branch, at an estimated cost of $27,263.77 and approved a request be submitted to the State Planning Commission for the allocation of funds.

With respect to water rights of the Fort Lewis Branch, Mr. Camp reported that at the September term of the District Court of La Plata County, Howell W. Cobb, Attorney, will ask that the case of Ben Arizza and others to quiet title to the Brown Brothers Ditch and to five cubic feet of water per second as the No. 2 priority in Water District 33, be placed under the rule requiring the plaintiffs to plead; and in case of their failure to comply, will ask dismissal of the case.

Regarding proposed sale of the beef herd at the Fort Lewis Branch (as suggested by the Fort Lewis Policy Committee) it was provided upon motion and second, to serve as appraisers to determine value of the herd the Fort Lewis Branch and the Colorado Experiment Station shall each appoint one person, and that these two shall appoint a third person, and that the proposed agreement for sale shall be submitted to the Board for approval.

Upon motion and second, the Board directed Acing Dean McLain to confer with F. W. Hickman, Associate Professor of Engineering at the Fort Lewis Branch about the proposed survey of possible dam sites for the Fort Lewis Branch and to arrange for him to present a preliminary report on the subject to the Board.

July 13, 1948 Colorado State Board of Agriculture meeting

The Call to order reads as follows:  The State Board of Agriculture met as the governing board of “Fort Lewis A & M College” at the Delta House, Delta Colorado, at 8:30 o’clock a.m. on Tuesday, July 13, 1948, with President Raman A. Miller presiding. 

June 9, 1949 Colorado State Board of Agriculture meeting

Charles Dale Rea was unanimously appointed president of Fort Lewis A & M College, effective July 22, 1949, on an 11-months’ basis of service at a salary of $6,000.00 annually, his service to continue at the pleasure of the Board, with the understanding that he is to complete work for his doctorate within two years from the effective date of his employment.

Charles W McLain was appointed vice president of Fort Lewis A & M College, effective July 22, 1949, on an 11-months’ basis of service, at a salary of $5,200.00 annually, with the understanding that in addition to his work as professor of physics he shall “also serve as registrar and director of admissions and perform other administrative duties connected with the educational work of the college”, as provided in the “Fort Lewis Policy” adopted on May 12, 1948.

January 14, 1950 Colorado State Board of Agriculture meeting

Upon a motion and second authorization was granted, subject to approval by the State Controller, for separating self-liquidating enterprises from the academic budgets, effective July 1, 1950; this to include the establishment of a depository account in a local bank through which all cash receipts and disbursements will be made by the Fort Lewis A & M College for the following enterprises: bookstore, commissary, dining hall, snack bar, experimental plots, beef, crops, diary, hogs, poultry, dormitories, residential housing units, and extractive resources from school property, and the consolidation of the accounts of the Veterans Village with the self-liquidating enterprises previously mentioned, including cash balances on July 1, 1950; the financial results of the operations of these enterprises to be reported each fiscal quarter to the State Controller and to the State Board of Agriculture; also to continue investigation of President Rea’s proposal that land be acquired to establish a branch in Durango, report of such investigations to be made in detail to the Board at a later date. 

It appears from President Rea’s thinking that the future growth for the College would rest in the establishment of a branch in Durango due to the remoteness of the campus located south of Hesperus, Colorado.

February 9, 1950 Fort Lewis A & M College press release, for immediate release

February 20-21, 1950 Colorado State Board of Agriculture meeting

Representative Leslie R. Steele, Chairman of the Subcommittee on Educational Institutions presented the following communication:

March 7, 1950 letter from E. Ellison Hatfield to Office of Attorney General

March 9, 1950 letter from John Metzger, Attorney General to E. Ellison Hatfield

 

March 14, 1950 City Council meeting

The City Council of the City of Durango has agreed to donate land to the Fort Lewis A & M College, such land to be adjacent to the air-strip on Reservoir Hill just east of the City of Durango provided all legal obstacles for the moving of part or all of the Fort Lewis A & M College, campus from its present site could be overcome.  In the event this tract of land would be conveyed to Fort Lewis A & M College, there would be available for such campus adequate water supply from the Durango municipal water system and sewer facilities, a part of the municipal sewer system.  This action was taken by a unanimous vote at the meeting and such action was recorded in the minutes of the meeting.

 

March 13, 1950 letter from Ellis P. Lupton, Chairman, Commission on State Institutions to John W. Metzger, Attorney General, State of Colorado: Reference Contract to conduct survey relating to Fort Lewis A & M College.

Ellis Lupton states that in addition to the approval of the State Board of Agriculture the Governor and the State Controller have informally approved the making of the survey and the expenditure of the funds therefore.

The Commission, with the approval of President Rea of the school, has selected Dr. Leonard V. Koos of Newaygo, Michigan, and nationally recognized consultant in the field of community colleges, to make the survey.

The letter requests that a contract be drawn up by the Attorney General to be signed by the Chairman of the Commission, the President of the School, by the Governor, Sate Controller and Attorney General as required by law.

April 11, 1950 Colorado State Board of Agriculture meeting

Attention was directed to miscellaneous reports on the subjects of (1) selection of an educational consultant to make the survey requested by the Commission on State Institutions; (2) information letter to parents of students; (3) the opinion of the Attorney General regarding the acceptance of property by the Board.

The following is a copy of the letter to parents contained in the board meeting items:

June 14, 1950 letter from Board members Walter G. Lehrer and Raman A. Miller to T. C. McPherson, President of the Board

July 18, 1950 Colorado State Board of Agriculture meeting

The “Report on the Fort Lewis School” was completed by Dr Leonard V. Koos, which was prepared on behalf of the Commission on State Institutions and The State Board of Agriculture for submission to the Governor and the Thirty-Eighth General Assembly of the State of Colorado.  A summary list of the seven recommendations contained in the report is as follows:

1.          That Fort Lewis be discontinued and that it be replaced by a tuition-free junior college development in a school district including all of La Plata County.  Because the enrollment would be too small to be operated as a separate institution.

2.          A plan of association or integration with the high school years is urged.

3.          The plan to be made possible by an alternative arrangement to the present junior college law through amendment of the School District Reorganizations Act to permit inclusion of junior college years under the authority of the Board in the reorganized district.

4.          Other legislation recommended concerns invoking authority to tax for junior college purposes and to share in the provisions for junior college aid.

5.          Removing or, at least, lowering, the criterion of assessed valuation permitting the maintenance of junior college work,

6.          And enacting legislation that will transfer ownership from the College to the new county district when organized, of instructional equipment and facilities, book collections in the library, and removable structures not needed for other uses to which Fort Lewis may be assigned.

7.          The recommendations include the continuance of the Fort Lewis Branch Experiment Station at the discretion of the State Board of Agriculture.

Consideration was given the printed “Report on the Fort Lewis School”, by Dr. Leonard V. Koos, and the oral request from the Commission on State Institutions, as reported by messengers Miller and Lehrer that the Board gives special consideration to certain recommendations contained therein.

Upon a motion and second the following reply to the Commission was unanimously authorized.

The State Board of Agriculture, in session at Gunnison, Colorado, yesterday, has given consideration to the “Report on the Fort Lewis School”’ by Dr. Leonard V. Koos, and to the oral request of the Commission on State Institutions that the Board consider recommendations Nos. 1 and 7 contained therein.

Recommendation No. 1 is “that Fort Lewis College be discontinued and it be replaced by a tuition-free college developed in a school district including all of La Plata County”.

The Fort Lewis College was established by legislative action, the General Assembly making it a part of the agricultural college system of the State and placing it under the control and management of the State Board of Agriculture.  The powers of the Board with respect to the College are limited to the specific authority given it by the General Assembly.  Its functions under the law are administrative.  It has no authority to discontinue the College, such authority being vested only in the General Assembly which established the College and which delegated control to the Board.

In view of this, the Board would be presumptuous and acting beyond its intended function in making any recommendation on the subject of discontinuance, which necessarily involves legislative powers and is a matter for determination by the people of the State of Colorado, acting through their elected representatives in the General Assembly.  Similarly, it is outside the functions of this Board to recommend regarding continuance.

It is clear that the question whether, in case of discontinuance, the college should be “replaced by a tuition-free college developed in a school district including all of La Plata County” likewise is beyond the jurisdiction of this Board and not properly a matter for its recommendation.

Recommendation No. 7 is “for continuance of the Fort Lewis Branch Experiment Station ….”  The Board at present operates the San Juan Basin Branch Station upon the Fort Lewis property.  There is no present intention upon the part of the Board to discontinue this Branch Station.  Obviously, the present Board cannot obligate future Boards in matters of policy, nor can it guarantee the adequacy of legislative appropriations required for future research.  It believes there is a need for continued agricultural and livestock research in the San Juan Basin and its intention for the foreseeable future is to continue operation of the Branch Station.

October 28, 1950 Colorado State Board of Agriculture meeting

President Charles Dale Rae and Director Homer J. Henney discussed with the Board the proposed Memorandum of Agreement between Fort Lewis A & M College and Colorado A & M College regarding research work at the San Juan Basin Experiment Station.

A motion was made, seconded and it was agreed that the proposed memorandum be held over for consideration at the December meeting.

Two items of note in the proposed memorandum are definitions under the section entitled Parties.  They are as follows:

1.          The Colorado Agricultural Experiment Station, which is an Agency of Colorado A & M College, is the agricultural research organization for the State of Colorado.  It is the policy of the State Board of Agriculture, through the Agricultural Experiment Stations, to conduct research at the main experiment station located at Fort Collins, Colorado, and at experiment stations located in various agricultural areas of the State of Colorado.

2.          Fort Lewis A & M College conducts instruction in the field of agriculture and has land and facilities available for use in carrying on research relating to agricultural production in the San Juan Basin.

December 13, 1950 Colorado State Board of Agriculture meeting

President Rea reported inquiries regarding institutional claims to mineral rights on Fort Lewis properties, and it was agreed that he shall continue his inquiries.

Attention was directed to a report of completion of the contract for timber sales to the Ace Box Company, showing a net profit of $2,384.10.  Upon a motion and second, authorization was granted to transfer the net proceeds to the Fort Lewis Tax Fund as requested by the State Controller.

Regarding a proposed new agreement between the Experiment Station and the College it was agreed that President Rea shall enter into further discussions with Experiment Station officials regarding provisions of the proposed agreement.

January 27, 1951 Colorado State Board of Agriculture meeting

Consideration was given correspondence between President Rea and the Attorney General on the subject of mineral rights upon college property.  The secretary was instructed to notify the Attorney General of its approval of President Rea as board representative in matters pertaining to this subject.

Letter dated January 2, 1951 from President Rea to Duke W. Dunbar, Attorney General is as follows:

Duke W. Dunbar's response to President Rea’s letter is as follows:

February 23, 1951 Colorado State Board of Agriculture meeting

Letters regarding mineral rights upon college property were read and discussed.

Letter from James D Parriott, Jr., Assistant Attorney General dated January 29, 1951 to President Rea is a follows:

Letter from William Zimmerman, Jr., Assistant Director US Department of the Interior dated January 3, 1950 to Mr. Mather is as follows:

February 27, 1951 letter from President Rea to Mrs. Sidney Foster, Legislative Chairman, A.A.U.W. (American Association of University Women)

March 26, 1951 letters of thanks

President Rea wrote the following letter to Senator Tom Kimball, Representative Bruce Sullivan and to Representative Elizabeth Pellet:

April 11, 1951 Colorado State Board of Agriculture meeting

Budget discussions were postponed for the appearance of Harold F. Collins, President of the State Board of Land Commissioners, A.S. Willburn, engineer for the Board, James D. Parriott, Jr., assistant attorney general, to discuss the advisability of calling for bids for oil-and-gas leases on the Fort Lewis property.  Based upon a motion and a second it was agreed that the consensus of the members of the State Board of Agriculture is that the present is not a desirable time for competitive bidding and that until further development occurs in the Fort Lewis area no lease should be made; further, that a pending application made to the State Board of Land Commissioners by rejected.

May 8, 1951 Colorado State Board of Agriculture meeting

Attention was directed by the Secretary to correspondence from the State Board of Land Commissioners indicating with respect to an oil-and-gas lease that the Land Board “will continue to hold the door open in this office for the reception of any offer that might seem to worthy of consideration”.

July 13, 1951 letter to Earl F Fehr from Department of Interior on lease request

September 21, 1951 Colorado State Board of Agriculture meeting

Discussing his status with respect to military service, President Rea asked that the Board request deferment to the end of the present College term, and that Governor Thornton be asked to make a similar request.  The Secretary was instructed to write letters accordingly.

With respect to the possibility of providing off-campus residence for President Rea, it was agreed that he should investigate and report to the Board at its next meeting.

October 26, 1951 Colorado State Board of Agriculture meeting

Upon a motion and second personnel items were approved as follows: President Charles Dale Rea was granted military leave to resume active duty with the Air Force.  Albert E. Corfman, currently Dean of the College, was designated to become Dean of the College and Acting President with an effective date of November 1, 1951.

Dean Corfman was present by invitation, and by request reviewed his educational qualifications and his professional experience; he discussed also the status of the College.  Board members pointed out that in his capacity as acting president, he will be expected to make such decisions and recommendations as are necessary for an effective operation of the institution during his incumbency, and that he will have freedom to do so; he stated his willingness to accept these responsibilities.

Upon a motion and second Dean Corfman was instructed to provide monthly to President Rea a copy of the agenda for each board meeting, and the Secretary to provide a copy of the minutes of each meeting.  Additionally, the Secretary was instructed to express to President Rea by letter the Board’s appreciation of his efforts as President of the Institution and to express the best wishes of the Board for his success and happiness during his military leave of absence.

November 9, 1951 Colorado State Board of Agriculture meeting

Consideration was given a written request from President Rea that the Board and the Governor again request his release from the Air Force.  By instruction of the Board, the following reply was prepared, approved by the Board, and ordered mailed (it is addressed to Lt. Colonel Charles Dale Rea):

Consideration was given by the Board to the lines of authority at Fort Lewis during the absence of President Rea.  By instruction of the Board the following letter was prepared, approved by the Board and ordered mailed to Lt. Colonel Rea.

The Board during the evening session reviewed a request from George D. Fehr to the Colorado State Land Board containing a proposal for obtaining an oil and gas lease on Fort Lewis property.  Mr. George D. Fehr and Lawrence Lamb were present for the discussion.  The following describes the contents of the proposal: 1) Payment of eleven cents per acre filing fee for about $698.00: 2) Payment of a flat sum of $10,000 bonus and first year rental; 3) payment of one dollar per acre or approximately $6,300 for each year; 4) payment of a standard 1/8^th royalty and accept other standard lease terms and provisions common to all State of Colorado leases except as may be in conflict with the above offer.  Due to the possibility of the abandonment of Fort Lewis as a school and of the resulting return of those lands to the United States of America, this offer is subject to the State of Colorado lease being ratified by the Unites States of America, acting through the Bureau of Land Management.  The right to withdraw this offer if unaccepted by December 20, 1951 is reserved.

December 11, 1951 Colorado State Board of Agriculture meeting

The Secretary was instructed to write President Rea that the Board wishes all correspondence to be directed to the Secretary and not to individual members of the Board.

The Board reviewed an oil-and-gas lease proposal by the Western Exploration and Management Company for drilling on Fort Lewis land.  A summation of the contents of the proposal is as follows:

The Board again gave consideration to the proposal from George D. Fehr that was considered during the November meeting.  Upon a motion and second, this proposal was recommended to the Board of Land Commissioners for acceptance, conditional upon Mr. Fehr’s further guaranteeing a second years rental of approximately $6,300, agreeing not to drill in the immediate campus building area and agreeing, in case of a gas discovery, to provide without cost gas for heating of state-owned buildings on the land, if the latter provision is not automatically provided by terms of the standard lease used by the Board of Land Commissioners.  It was also provided that no other mineral rights shall be involved in a contract under this proposal.

February 1, 1952 Colorado State Board of Agriculture meeting

Harold F. Collins, President of the State Board of Land Commissioners, was present to report on the opening of bids for and oil-and-gas lease on the Fort Lewis lands, bids having been opened at 2:00 o’clock PM on Thursday, January 31, 1952.  Bids were summarized as follows:

Western Exploration and Management Company, in behalf of Great Western Drilling company – filing fee, $695.04; rental for two years at twenty five cents per acre per year, $3,159.28; bonus of $2.55 per acre, $16,112.33; grand total, $19,966.65.  In addition, to begin geological investigations as soon as weather permits; to begin drilling of test well within two years; if first well is a commercial producer of either oil or gas, to drill an additional well each six months until limits of field have been established; in event of discovery of gas in commercial quantities, to provide a maximum of fifty million cubic feet per year for heating buildings, such gas not to exceed 50 percent of the allowable of any one gas well and not to be called upon to furnish gas from a commercial oil well.

Western Oil Fields, Inc. – filing fee, $695.09; rental for two years at ten cents per acre per year, $1,263.00; bonus of twenty-five cents per acre, $1576.75; grant total, $3,535.64.  In addition, to obtain additional acreage in immediate area at once, conducting a geological search thereon, and if information acquired is satisfactory, to drill test well within 18 months; in event of discovery of oil and gas, or both, in commercial quantity, to develop tract fully.

Upon a motion and second the bid of $19,966.65 by the Western Exploration and Management Company, in behalf of Great Western Drilling Company, with conditions and provisions as stated in the company’s bid letter, was unanimously recommended to the State Board of Land Commissioners for its acceptance.  President Collins of the Land Board stated that the Board will accept the recommendation and will have the contract prepared by the office of the Attorney General.

May 13, 1952 Colorado State Board of Agriculture meeting

The Secretary reported the receipt from the Sate Board of Land Commissioners a copy of the oil-and-gas lease with the Great Western Drilling Company and of notification that monies paid into that office by the lessee has been applied and remitted as follows:  Land Commissioners Fee Fund, $45.50; mineral and expense fund, $1,992.11; and Fort Lewis School Endowment Fund, $17,929.04; total, $19,966.65.  He reported also having made inquiry of the Attorney General whether there is any possibility under the law of authorization to the Board to invest the Fund in U.S. bonds, rather than in securities, which are general obligations of the State of Colorado or, of school districts or municipalities within the state.

October 10, 1952 Colorado State Board of Agriculture meeting

In Executive Session, the Board discussed objections received to the resumption of the presidency of Fort Lewis A & M College by President Charles Dale Rea upon expiration of his military leave.  President Rea was called into the discussion at 8:50 o’clock a.m.

At 9:05 o’clock a.m., during the Open Session, the Board met with a delegation from Durango consisting of Jack Kroeger, Tom Kimball, R. Bruce Sullivan, Sam Gilchrest and Hector Beaubein, who were accompanied by Dr. Charles A. Lory of Estes Park.  The group expressed objection to the return of President Rea to his position following a leave of absence for military service, contending chiefly that there exists a lack of confidence in him upon the part of students, faculty and the public, and criticizing his administrative methods.

The Secretary read the following: letters from Animas Valley Grange No. 194, Florida Grange No. 30 and Eureka Grange No. 311 opposing the return of President Rea; a letter from Charles H. Reid, Jr., chairman of the faculty, stating that “to my knowledge neither instructors nor students here at Fort Lewis are protesting the return of Colonel Rea as president of the College” and that “many of the instructors are anxiously awaiting Dr. Rea’s return, for they believe he will not allow the academic program and its standards to continue to be subordinate to the athletic program as been the case under Mr. Corfman’s administration;” a letter from Ellis C. Vander Pyl, Major, U.S. Air Force regarding President Rea and stating that “{we who know him in the service feel that the motives which prompted the course of those who have raised protest against him are ill advised”; and a transcript of an editorial from the Durango News Herald stating that “Dr Charles Dale Rea should be reinstated as President of Fort Lewis A & M College”.  President Rea spoke in rebuttal of chares made against him.  The delegation withdrew at 11:15 o’clock a.m.

The Board continued its discussions and recessed at 11:55 o’clock a.m. for lunch and then resumed its session at 3:30 o’clock p.m.

The Secretary read communications as follows:  a letter from Mt. Allison Grange No. 308 stating its lack of information “as to the qualifications of Dale Rea” but expressing its interest “in a good college….”; a telegram from W. D. Ewing expressing the “hope that Dale Rea is retained”; and a telegram from C. L. Skinner stating that “any alleged representation for either Durango Quarterback Club, Chamber of Commerce or Junior Chamber of Commerce here in Durango was denied by organization presidents this morning.

President Rea expressed a willingness to return to his position providing the Board unanimously favors his return.  Upon motion President Rea was directed to resume the duties of the presidency immediately.

In view of a previously written statement by Albert E. Corfman, Acting President, that “the day before Mr. Rea returns to this campus in full possession of his office I expect to be gone”, the Board accepted his resignation, effective immediately.  Acting President Albert E. Corfman appeared before the Board and was informed of the Board’s acceptance of his resignation, Mr. Corfman concurred, and stated that his resignation is in effect and that he has 29 days earned vacation due.

November 7, 1952 Colorado State Board of Agriculture meeting

Following consideration of President Rea’s request for authorization to reside in Durango, Colorado for the duration of the school year, with allowance for rental and utilities, it was agreed that President Rea have the option of residing in a house upon the campus, with utilities provided, or of continuing off-campus residence, with cost of utilities, to be paid him as reimbursement upon costs of such off-campus residence, his decision to be reported to the Board at its next meeting.

 

April 8, 1953 Colorado State Board of Agriculture meeting

Consideration was given the action of the Durango, Colorado, City Council on March 14, 1950, offering to donate land to the College as a site for all or part of the College.  The Secretary was instructed to ask the opinion of the Attorney General whether the State Board of Agriculture may accept such property for the purpose indicated and whether it would be permitted to establish and operate all of, or part of college activities at that location.

A copy of a letter from A. F. Barnett, City Manager to President Rea was included in the agenda.  It summarized the actions and the vote taken by the City Council when President Rea had first approached them in 1950 about a site for a branch of the college to be located in Durango.

 

May 13, 1953 Colorado State Board of Agriculture meeting

The Board at the meeting of April 8, 1953 directed attention to correspondence between the Secretary or the Board and the Attorney General of Colorado as a result of instructions.  In response to the Secretary’s inquiry,

"Will you kindly indicate in general what procedures would be necessary for (1) removal of the entire college instructional facilities and (2) removal of only a part of such facilities to Durango as a branch of the college, with continuation of agricultural phases of instruction at Fort Lewis, also of the branch experiment station operated by Colorado Agricultural and Mechanical College," the Attorney General replied as follows:

(1)  The Colorado Legislature established the Fort Lewis School, as well as its purposes.  In my opinion, it will take the same legislative action to move the school or change its purposes.

(2)  If the purpose of the school is changed from that laid down in the original congressional grant, it is my opinion that the lands will revert to the federal government and will be lost to the State of Colorado.

In view of the uncertainty regarding interpretation of the Attorney General’s statement, particularly in respect to whether or not a branch of the College might be established at Durango, it was agreed that President Rea should discuss the subject personally with the Attorney General or a member of his staff.

June 19, 1953 Colorado State Board of Agriculture meeting

President Rea reported, as a result of conference with Lawrence W. Hinkley, Deputy Attorney General, the opinion that a branch of Fort Lewis Agricultural and Mechanical College cannot be established at Durango as proposed by the City of Durango in its offer of a site without legislative approval.  It was agreed that President Rea should confer with La Plata County legislators and other local persons with a view of further consideration of the subject.

President Rea reported preparations by the Great Western Drilling Company to drill a test well upon Fort Lewis property in compliance with the terms of its lease.

August 8, 1953 Colorado State Board of Agriculture meeting

President Rea reported a recent conference held with legislators and other representative citizens of the San Juan Basin at which sentiment was expressed for establishment of a branch of the College at Durango.  Following President Rea’s remarks, a delegation composed of James M. Noland, Franklin R. McKelvey, Ralph Burress and Arthur Ballantine, Jr., appeared for discussion of the subject.  It was agreed that the initiative in effecting establishment of a branch is a responsibility of the citizens of the Basin and not that of the Board, which is limited by law to operation of the College, however constituted.

September 25, 1953 Colorado State Board of Agriculture meeting

President Rea reported developments with respect to proposed establishment of a branch of the College at Durango on a site offered by the City, meeting with Chamber of Commerce and other interested groups having been held recently.  President Rea further reported that the Attorney General of Colorado has prepared a bill to be used in seeking legislative approval of a branch of the College on a site offered by the City of Durango.

President Rea reported that the Attorney General of Colorado has prepared a bill to be used in seeking legislative approval of a branch of the College on a site offered by the City of Durango.

October 23, 1953 Colorado State Board of Agriculture meeting

Consideration was given the following resolution of the City Council of the City of Durango, adopted on October 13, 1953:

Upon a motion and second the State Board of Agriculture agreed that it will accept the lands referred to in the foregoing resolution upon the tendering of a warranty deed by the City of Durango conditioned upon authorization by the Colorado General Assembly for construction of buildings upon “grounds owned by the State of Colorado and used for the purpose of said school” as differentiated from grounds comprising the present site of the Fort Lewis School.

 

December 9, 1953 Colorado State Board of Agriculture meeting

President Rea reported on a conference with Governor Dan Thornton and members of the General Assembly which he attended on December 8, 1953, with Mr. Miller, Mr. Lehrer, and Mr. McCabe, at which request was made, that the Governor include in his call for the next legislative session the question of authorization for the State Board of Agriculture to establish a branch of the College at Durango upon a site offered by the City of Durango.  It was agreed that members of the Board should indicate to legislators of their districts their individual opinion and that of the Board that the proposed establishment of a branch is desirable.

Upon a motion and second the issuance of the following statement to the public was authorized:

December 11, 1953 letter from James Miller, Secretary State Board of Agriculture to President Rea

Not having heard from you as I expected regarding the release of the Board statement about the establishment of a branch at Durango, I called the Durango Herald-News early this afternoon and gave Mr. Ballantine the statement.  I had arranged yesterday with our News and Radio Service to make release of the statement for the afternoon papers of today, so when I did not hear from you I felt I should protect the Durango paper.  They should have had mention of it on the wire.  Mr. Ballantine said they had planned to use the statement Sunday, but since it was released earlier today it was too late for me to retract it.  I hope you will feel that my action has been proper under the circumstances.

December 14, 1953 letter from President Rea to Representative A.M. Wyatt

President Rea states that the local newspaper carried a complete report of a meeting held by Senator Gill, Rep. Pellet, and the State Auditor, three members of the State Board and various community leaders and College officials with Governor Thornton concerning the proposal to establish a branch campus in Durango.  He further stated in his letter that the Governor advised the group that he would ask his leaders to consider including the request on the Governor’s call for the up coming session.

February 5, 1954 Colorado State Board of Agriculture meeting

President Rea reported on continuing efforts to obtain legislative approval of the proposal to establish a branch of the College in Durango.

February 9, 1954 City Council meeting

The City Council amended the October 13, 1953 resolution relating to the conveyance of the ground to the State Board of agriculture for the branch campus by modifying the paragraph preceding the date paragraph to read as follows:

“If such branch is established and thereafter abandoned for educational purposes or a State Government purpose, said land shall revert to the City of Durango, with the privilege reserved by the State to remove all buildings, fixtures and personal property within one year from the date of abandonment.”

March 3, 1954 City Council meeting

The resolution was again amended to read as follows:

“Be it further resolved that as consideration for this conveyance, the City of Durango accepts the sum of One Dollar ($1.00) and as a further consideration it is hereby resolved that said conveyance shall recite generally that, unless a branch of Fort Lewis Agricultural College is established on the above described lands within 5 years from the date of this conveyance, said lands shall revert to the City of Durango and shall further provide that, thereafter the State Board of Agriculture or other agency of the State of Colorado shall cease to use said lands for educational purposes or a State Government purpose, then title to said lands shall immediately revert to the City of Durango with the privilege permitted to said lands to remove all buildings, fixtures and personal property there from within one year from the date that said land ceases to be used for educational purposes or a State Government purpose.”

March 9, 1954 letter from Ross Brown Executive Assistant to the Governor to President Rea

Mr. Brown stated in his letter that Governor Thornton had just signed the Fort Lewis Bill this morning.  The bill was SB No. 22 sponsored by Senators Sullivan and Veltri and Representative Wertz, “Concerning the Fort Lewis School, and to Amend the Law Relating Thereto.”

Section 1. The State Board of Agriculture is hereby authorized and directed to have prepared plans for a building or buildings to be constructed within the city limits of Durango, La Plata County, Colorado, for purposes of the Fort Lewis School, Hesperus, Colorado, and situated on grounds owned by the State of Colorado used for the purposes of said school, and upon approval of said plans by the board, to begin construction of said building or buildings.

Section 2.  Section 93, Chapter 38, 1935 Colorado Statutes Annotated, is hereby amended to read as follows:

Section 93.  Unless otherwise provided by law, a separate account of said fund shall be kept by the several county treasurers of this state and also by the state treasurer, and the same shall be available to the State Board of Agriculture for secondary instruction in agriculture, mechanic and household arts; for investigations in agriculture and kindred problems; for extension service; for the operation of the school farm; for the upkeep and construction of buildings, the clearing of lands and other necessary improvements at the Fort Lewis School.

Section 3.  The General Assembly hereby finds, determines, and declares that this act is necessary for the immediate preservation of the public peace health and safety.

March 12, 1954 Colorado State Board of Agriculture meeting

Consideration was given the qualifications of the following named individuals and firms for architectural services for the proposed Durango branch of the College: Samuel J. Caudill, Jr., Aspen; Earle A. Deits, Colorado Springs; George W. Dickinson, Engineer, Littleton, in association with Alfred Watts Grant, architect, Denver, Eugene G. Groves, Denver; Jared B. Morse, Denver; Paul W. Rader, Denver; William B. Robb, Fort Collins; Eugene D. Sternberg, Denver; Thomas N. Sweet, Colorado Springs; Robert A Van Deusen, Grand Junction.  It was the consensus of Board members that, before making a decision regarding architectural services, preliminary campus plans, including utilities, and general ideas regarding the type of building to be constructed and indication of what buildings and facilities shall be moved from the Hesperus Site, should be presented for consideration.

March 25, 1954 City Council meeting

The City Council passed a new resolution on the conveyance of property to the State Board of Agriculture for Fort Lewis A & M College.  The resolution contains a revised metes and bounds description that contains 139.93 acres, more of less, which is followed by the following:

The Commissioner’s Deed to the property was delivered to Charles Dale Rea, President of Fort Lewis A & M College.  This Commissioner’s Deed in turn was recorded on March 26, 1954 in the La Plata County, Colorado, Court House (Reception No. 242302 dated September 7, 1954).  Immediately thereafter a copy of the Commissioner’s Deed was forwarded to the State Attorney General for his examination and comments.

March 26, 1954 Executive Committee of the Colorado State Board of Agriculture meeting

The committee having been notified that President Rea had arranged for a telephone conference regarding Fort Lewis matters, all those present took their places at telephones, with President Rea and Jesse McCabe, as Board member representing the Fort Lewis area also on the line.

President Rea reported that a suit had been filed in the District Court at Durango on behalf of 26 “citizens and taxpayers” seeking a restraining order to prevent the City Council of Durango from transferring to the State the site for the proposed branch of the College at Durango; that the City proposes to confess judgment in the pending court case; and that the City Council has proposed a substitute plan which is believed to be immune from successful challenge in the courts, namely that the College purchase the site from the City for $8,400, with the verbal understanding that the city will contribute an equivalent amount in other ways to preparation of the site and its improvement prior to and during construction period.  Following discussion, in which Mr. McCabe joined with President Rea in recommending acceptance of the proposal to purchase the site, it was agreed that President Rea might proceed to affect the purchase if the Attorney General approves. 

Later the same afternoon, President Rea arranged a telephone conversation, which included Attorney General Duke W. Dunbar, State Purchasing Agent Leon Lavington, Controller James A. Noonan, City Attorney Emigh of Durango, President Rea and the Secretary.  It was agreed that the Attorney General might affect the proposed purchase upon approval of the deed and of the abstract of title.

A letter dated April 6, 1954, from the Office of the Attorney General sets forth comments which in turn express dissatisfaction with certain aspects of the Commissioner’s Deed specifically dealing with the reversion clause.  Upon receipt of the letter consultation was held with Fred B. Emigh, City Attorney.  Mr. Emigh in turn agreed to correspond with the Attorney General’s Office in an effort to clarify and satisfy the Attorney General.  In the event a Special Warranty Deed is prepared to replace the Commissioner’s Deed, which the College now had, it will be necessary for the land in question to be deeded back to the City, who in turn will again deed it to the College with the warranty deed requested.

April 26, 1954 Colorado State Board of Agriculture meeting

Upon a motion and a second the action of the Executive Committee on March 26, 1954 in agreeing to purchase the proposed Durango site for $8,400 was confirmed and approval given to include in the deed a reversion clause as follows:

Provided, however, that the Grantee, party of the second part, may not sell or dispose of the above described property without the written consent of the City of Durango, and provided further that if a branch of Fort Lewis Agricultural College in not established on the above described lands within five (5) years from the date of this conveyance, then within ninety (90) days after the expiration of said five years the City of Durango shall have the right and option of repurchasing said lands, together with all improvements thereon situate and all rights and privileges thereunto appertaining for the sum of Eight Thousand Four Hundred Dollars ($8,400), cash in hand and paid to the proper record owners, their officers or designated agents.  In the event that such branch of Fort Lewis Agricultural College is established within five years from the date of this conveyance and thereafter the said State Board of Agriculture or other agency of the State of Colorado shall cease to use said lands for educational purposes by the State or any political subdivision thereof, or state government purposes, then within ninety (90) days after said lands have ceased to be used for educational purposes or state government purposes, the City of Durango shall have the right and option to purchase said lands, together with all improvements thereon situate and all rights and privileges hereunto appertaining for the sum of Eight Thousand Four Hundred Dollars ($8,400) cash in hand paid to the proper record owners, their officers or designated agents.  Provided, however, that in the event that such lands are so purchased by the City of Durango, then the State Board of Agriculture or its successors in title to said lands shall have one year from the date of said purchase by the City of Durango to remove all buildings, fixtures and personal property there from.  All buildings, fixtures and personal property not so removed shall become and remain the property of the City of Durango.

Upon motion and second, President Rea was authorized, as soon as all questions regarding title to the site are cleared to the satisfaction of the Attorney General, to engage an engineer to do planning for moving buildings from the Hesperus campus to the Durango campus, the financial obligation to the engineer is limited to $500.00.

Upon motion and second, President Rea was authorized to make application for a loan, subject to later acceptance or rejection by the Board, from the Federal Housing and Home Finance Agency for loan assistance for dormitory construction at the proposed new site for replacing present housing facilities which cannot be moved from the Hesperus campus, these providing accommodations for 70 men students and 60 women students, with dining facilities for both.

Upon motion and second, President Rea was authorized to continue inquiries with Boettcher and Company of Denver looking toward a bond issue sufficient, when combined with available Student Union funds, to permit construction of a building costing approximately $50,000.

May 12, 1954 Colorado State Board of Agriculture meeting

Attention was directed to a report by President Rea of legal actions initiated in the District Court of La Plata County in an effort to prevent establishment of a branch of the college upon the site proposed at Durango.  It was agreed that President Rea should endeavor to interest plaintiffs in the suits in conferring with representatives of the Board and that, in case consent is obtained, President Monfort, Mr. McCabe and Mr. McPherson shall attend the conference.  The following pertaining to this item is contained in the Reports Section of the Board Agenda items.

On March 20, 1954, Attorney Lewis H. Perkins filed a complaint, Civil Action #6108 in the District Court of La Plata County, Colorado.  This complaint requested that a temporary restraining order be issued to halt the gift of the proposed branch site to the State of Colorado.  In order to expedite the establishment of the Branch, the Executive Committee of the State Board of Agriculture on March 26, 1954, authorized the purchase of the site for $8,400.  The priced was determined after a survey of the property showed that there were 140 acres of land suitable for the campus site.  It was decided that a price of $100 per acre for the level land and $20 per acre for the hillside land would be a fair price, acceptable to the City Council and the State Board of Agriculture.  As a result of this action the City Attorney Fred Emigh filed an answer to the original complaint in which he confessed judgment.

On April 29, 1954 Attorney Lewis M. Perkins filed a Supplemental Complaint, Civil Action #6108, in the District Court of La Plata County, Colorado.  The essence of the complaint is that it would be unlawful to erect buildings for the Fort Lewis School upon lands located outside of the city limits of Durango, Colorado, and that certain citizens would suffer damages, loss and injury if the city installed sewers, water mains, roads and other city facilities on lands outside the city limits.  Additionally, as part of the supplemental action the State Board of Agriculture is brought in as additional and indispensable parties’ defendant.  This action was not contemplated until said lands were brought into the City of Durango.  Preliminary work has been started for purpose of bringing these lands into the city limits.  The State Attorney General has been advised of this latest action and Mr. Emigh is consulting with the Attorney General as to appropriate action.  As a result of a conference with Mr. Emigh, President Rea has been advised that since the action set forth in the Supplemental Complaint pertains to lands outside the city limits, in all probability they can again confess judgment.  This would again halt the present lawsuit.  If this action is taken Mr. Perkins, will undoubtedly, file an additional complaint at the time the property is advertised for incorporation into the City Limits of Durango.  If this is the course of action he pursues, at that time the matter will no doubt have to be taken into the courts.

June 29, 1954 Colorado State Board of Agriculture meeting

President Rea reported on the status of efforts toward establishment of a Durango Branch of the College.  Pending the outcome of a court action, which is delaying establishment of the Branch, he said, a petition for annexation of the proposed site to the City of Durango has been filed, and the required plat to accompany the petition is being prepared.

July 10, 1954 letter from Warren Monfort, President of State Board of Agriculture, to Members of Colorado General Assembly

The letter was to report to the members of the General Assembly of the State of Colorado the current situation with respect to establishment of a branch of Fort Lewis Agricultural and Mechanical College at Durango, which was authorized and directed by Senate Bill No. 22.  The letter describes all of the events that have occurred through out the process of getting to this point in the process.  He further states that the actual value of the property that was acquired, if available for commercial development, would be greatly in excess of the purchase price and that it had been further agreed by the State Controller and the State Purchasing Agent that the property could be purchased from the College’s operating fund.  The College administration then immediately began cutting back on maintenance and operational expenditures at the present campus site.  The letter goes on to inform the readers of the suits that had been filed and the actions that are being undertaken to address them.  One of the final paragraphs reads: “Despite the present suit, it is the opinion of the College administration and the Board that the overwhelming majority of people of the San Juan Basin are in favor of the branch proposal.  A single citizen can file a complaint such as the one pending.”

 July 29, 1954 City Council meeting

A petition for the annexation of a tract of land to be known as “College Addition to the City of Durango, Colorado” was filed by the State Board of Agriculture on behalf of Fort Lewis A & M College.  The resolution stated that the City Clerk be and he is hereby directed to give notice of the substance of said petition, the date of filing, the number of persons signing, a description of the territory included in the proposed annexation and a statement that land owners of the area may express their opposition to the annexation and secure an election by complying with Section 4 of Chapter 314, 1947 Session Laws, above referred to, be published each week for three consecutive weeks (four publications) in Durango Herald News, a daily newspaper published in the City of Durango, Colorado.

August 13, 1954 Colorado State Board of Agriculture meeting

Upon a motion and second, President Rea was instructed to proceed with submission of a loan application to the Federal Housing and Home Finance Agency for dormitory construction on the new campus site in Durango.  He was also instructed to employ professional assistance to prepare necessary preliminary engineering and architectural data, such employment to be on a negotiated fee basis indicating specifically that no commitment beyond the preparation of the preliminary date and sketches in involved.

September 15, 1954 letter from Frederic Emigh, City Attorney, to President Rea

September 24, 1954 Colorado State Board of Agriculture meeting

President Rea reported on the status of efforts to establish the Durango Branch, including steps taken toward annexation of the proposed site to the City.

October 29, 1954 Colorado State Board of Agriculture meeting

President Rea reported that the proposed site has been annexed to the City of Durango and that R. Franklin McKelvey as deputy in the case for the Attorney General has recommended that the Attorney General advise the Board to proceed with construction plans.  No communication on the subject having been received from the Attorney General, however, it was agree that Mr. Lehrer (State Board member) shall seek an appointment with the Attorney General, preferably for Tuesday, November 9, for the Executive committee to confer with the Attorney General.

December 8, 1954 Colorado State Board of Agriculture meeting

President Rea reported on the progress of District Court proceedings brought by a group of Durango citizens with a view of obstructing proposed construction, the last case of which is still pending.

The following was contained in Section IV – Reports of the SBA Agenda.

Attached please find a copy of the Petition for Declaratory Judgment, a copy of the answer to Case #6205 pending in the District Court of La Plata County, Colorado entitled “The People of the State of Colorado, Ex Rel State Board of Agriculture vs. City of Durango.” Also enclosed is a copy of the motion, which has been filed on behalf of the State Board of Agriculture in Case #6108 entitled “Macy, Et Al vs. City of Durango, Et Al”.  This action was taken after consultation between Duke Dunbar, State Attorney General; Franklin McKelvey, Durango Attorney; The Executive Committee of the State Board of Agriculture; Daniel E.  Black, Fort Lewis A & M College Business Manager; and Charles Dale Rea, President of Fort Lewis A & M College.  Arrangements have been made for these cases to be heard before Judge Blickhahn of Monday, December 6, 1954.  It is believed that final disposition of the Declaratory Judgment and motion will be made at that time.

January 5, 1955 letter from Franklin McKelvey, Deputy Attorney General, to President Rea

Re: Macy, et al vs. City of Durango and State Board of Agriculture-Case No. 6108.

The letter was to inform President Rea that Judge Blickhahn has set the above case for trial for Friday, January 14^th in Durango beginning at 9:30 A.M.  Additionally, included was a copy of the letter was sent to Duke Dunbar, State Attorney General.

January 18, 1955 letter from Franklin McKelvey to President Rea

The letter was to inform President Rea that he had received a call from Judge George H. Blickhahn of Alamosa with reference to his decision in Case No. 6108 pending in the District Court of La Plata County.  He was sitting for Judge Noland and Judge Galbreath, the District Judges for this District, each of who had disqualified himself for trial in that case.  Judge Blickhahn advised him that he had sustained the contention of the defendants in the case, had dismissed the Complaint, and authorized the state Board of Agriculture to proceed with the building.  The Judge further provided and dispensed with the filing of a Motion for a new trial and granted the plaintiffs sixty days within which to prepare and file the Reporter’s Transcript.

January 21-22, 1955 Colorado State Board of Agriculture meeting

President Rea reported progress of District Court proceedings brought by a group of Durango citizens with a view of preventing proposed construction of the Durango Branch.  Board members Lehrer, Warren, Miller and McClave reported discussions of the subject with Governor Johnson and Attorney General Dunbar.  Minutes of the meeting of the Executive Committee on January 6, 1955, at which qualifications of architects were considered were read for information of the Board.  It was agreed that the logical first step in preparation for probable construction on the Durango site should be the preparation of a campus plan in advance of plans for specific buildings.  It was further agreed that the Board should meet on Saturday, January 22, 1955 to discuss with James M. Hunter, Architect, the possibility of his preparing such a plan.

On January 22^nd James Hunter was present by invitation to discuss with the Board its proposal that he prepare a campus plan for development of the proposed Durango Branch.  It was agreed that Mr. Hunter shall prepare such a plan, his fee to be costs plus 10% to a maximum of $500, with the understanding that separate authorization will be necessary for any obligation above this maximum and that upon completion of this assignment his employment ends without obligation upon the part of the Board to employ him for further services.

Undated letter from House of Representatives to City of Durango and/or President Rea

January 27, 1955 letter from President Rea to Warren Monfort, President of State Board of Agriculture

February 11, 1955 Colorado State Board of Agriculture meeting

James M. Hunter, campus planning consultant, who has worked with President Rea on preliminary plans for the Durango campus, being absent from the state on vacation, it was greed that the Secretary would arrange by telephone with Mr. Hunter’s office for a conference to be held a Mr. Lehrer’s office in Denver at 2:30 o’clock p.m. on Tuesday, March 29, with Mr. Monfort, Mr. Lehrer, Mr. Miller, President Rea and Mr. Hunter, to plan further for getting work under way on plans for installation of basic utilities, decisions regarding the feasibility of moving some buildings from Hesperus campus, and preparation of plans and specifications for construction of the first academic building on the Durango site.

March 11, 1955 Colorado State Board of Agriculture meeting

Section III – Miscellaneous of the SBA Agenda contained an item that stated: on February 25 1955 the Governor signed Senate Bill No. 125.

President Rea reported progress toward campus planning for the new site at Durango, also the Attorney General’s statement that the Board may now precede with establishment of the new branch as far as legal involvements are concerned.

James Hunter, architect, was present by invitation and presented and discussed his “Campus Planning Report and Suggested Program”, for Fort Lewis A & M College.

Upon motion and second, investigations of the possibilities of quarrying stone for college buildings from a site near the proposed new campus was authorized, with limitation of a maximum expenditure of $250 for expense of such study.

President Rea was authorized to take such action as may be necessary with both the City of Durango and La Plata County to achieve zoning of areas near the proposed new campus with a view of preventing undesirable construction.

March 29, 1955 Executive Committee of the Colorado State Board of Agriculture meeting

The meeting was held for the purpose of making the following campus planning decisions:

Mr. Hunter to be hired to plan the basic utilities, determine locations of buildings, lay out streets, sidewalks, curbs and gutters, quarrying of rock for construction, moving of buildings from the Hesperus site, and salvaging of materials from buildings to be razed at the Hesperus site.

Mr. Hunter authorized to hire a surveyor to coordinate maps for the basic plan of campus construction.  Additionally, to hire necessary technical help for obtaining information for preparation of specifications for calling for bids.

Mr. Hunter to set up a field office and place a man on site, who shall guard the Board’s interest in these matters of immediate concern: (a) Demo and salvage of materials from Lewis Hall, (b) drilling test holes on Durango site, (c) investigate and recommend whether quarrying of stone should be done under contract or by placing quarrymen on salary and using institutional equipment.

The following items of general policy were set up:

1.          Substantial but extremely functional buildings, holding costs to a minimum, are to be erected.

2.          Reports on quarrying shall be sent to each member of the Board in advance of Board meetings, with a program for each building to be reported similarly in advance.

3.          Copies of all pertinent correspondence related to campus development and construction shall be placed on file in the office of the Secretary of the Board.

4.          A small faculty building committee shall be formed to serve as a clearinghouse for suggestions to the architect and the President regarding functional purposes of buildings.

5.          Duties assigned to Mr. Hunter to include conference with President Rea to obtain his opinions and his concurrence in decisions.

March 31, 1955 report prepared by Daniel E. Black, Business Manager on the Hesperus Campus water rights

At the present time Fort Lewis A & M College has 10 5/8 cubic feet per second of water out of the La Plata River and 2 cubic feet per second of water out of developed and undeveloped springs on the Fort Lewis land.

	No. of Priority	Date of Priority	Cu. Ft per Second	Ditch Name
	3	February 8, 1888	2 5/8	Hay Gulch
	5	July 5, 1889	2	Parrott
	11	May 1, 1882	4	Alfalfa
	13	May 1, 1896	2	Ammons
	Total La Plata River		10 5/8
			1	Lory Springs
			1	Taylor Springs
	Total All Water		12 5/8

No. 3 Priority – Hay Gulch Ditch – La Plata River

The rights and interests of the Colorado State Board of Agriculture in and to the Hay Gulch Irrigating Ditch, comprising:

1.          An undivided one-sixth (1/6) interest in said ditch acquired from John M. Crawford.

2.          An undivided one-twelfth (1/12) interest in said ditch acquired from Robert McNicholas and Fred S. McNicholas.

Amended Decree Dated January 12 1898

“That the owners of the ditch named and known as the Hay Gulch Ditch are entitled to a priority in use of 10 ½ cubic feet of water per second of time from said natural stream known as the La Plata River; in said Water District No. 33, to date from the 8^th day of February, 1888; that said ditch shall be numbered as Appropriation No. 3, La Plata River, in said Water District No. 33.”

A Warranty Deed by John M. Crawford, Grantor, to the State Board of Agriculture of the State of Colorado, Grantee, dated September 6, 1916, and filed for record as Reception No. 76473 on October 2, 1916, conveyed to the State Board of Agriculture an undivided one-sixth (1/6) interest in and to the Hay Gulch Irrigation Ditch.  The same representing one share in said ditch and being one and three-fourths (1 ¾) cubic feet of water per second of time.  The consideration for this Warranty Deed was $3,500.00.

A Warranty Deed by Robert McNicholas and Fred S. McNicholas, Grantors to the State Board of Agriculture of the State of Colorado, Grantee, dated March 20, 1917, and filed for record on June 4, 1917 under reception No. 78699, conveyed to the State Board of Agriculture an undivided one-twelfth (1/12) interest in and to the Hay Gulch Irrigation Ditch.  The same representing one-half (1/2) share in said ditch and water rights and representing eighty-seven and one-half hundredths (.875) of one cubic feet of water per second of time.  The consideration for this Warranty Deed was $1,750.00.

No. 5 Priority – Parrott Ditch – La Plata River

The rights and interests of the Colorado State Board of Agriculture in and to the Parrott Ditch comprising two (2) cubic feet of water per second of time.

Amended Decree Dated September 13, 1899

“The owner of the ditch named and known as the Parrott Ditch is entitled to a priority in the use of two (2) cubic feet of water per second of time from said natural stream known as the La Plata River in said Water District No. 33, to date from the fifth day of July, 1889; the said ditch shall be numbered as Ditch No. 10, and said appropriation shall be numbered as Appropriation No. 5, La Plata River, in said Water District No. 33.”

A Warranty Deed by James W. Jarvis, Grantor, to the State Board of Agriculture, of the State of Colorado, Grantee, dated June 19, 1918, and filed for record July 15, 1918 under Reception No. 85008, conveyed to the State Board of Agriculture two (2) cubic feet of water per second of time of the priority and appropriation of the Parrott Ditch.  The same being Priority No. 5 in Ditch No. 10 in Water District No. 33.  Consideration for the Warranty was $250.00.

In the District Court, in and for La Plata County, State of Colorado, No. 807 dated May 31, 1919, the Decree of the District Court allowed the transfer and change of point of diversion of 2 cubic feet of water of Priority No. 5, Ditch No. 10 (Parrott Ditch) to the Hay Gulch Ditch (Ditch No. 5) in Water District No. 33.

No. 11 Priority – Alfalfa Ditch – La Plata River

The rights and interests of the Colorado State Board of Agriculture in and to the Alfalfa Ditch comprising 4 cubic feet of water per second of time under Priority 11; Ammons Ditch, 2 c.f.s. Priority No. 13; Lory Spring, 1 c.f.s.; and Taylor Spring 1 c.f.s.

Adjudication Decree dated June 19, 1914

			Priority No, of
	Ditch No.	Date of Priority	River	Cu. Ft per Second	Ditch Name
	26	May 1, 1882	11	4	Alfalfa
	38	May 1, 1896	13	2	Ammons
	27	May 1, 1882	Springs	1 (all)	Lory Springs
	28	May 1, 1882	Springs	1 (all)	Taylor Springs

In the District Court in and for La Plata County, State of Colorado, No. 3446 dated April 8, 1922, the decree of the District Court allowed the transfer and change of point of diversion of 4 cubic feet of water, Priority No. 11, Ditch No. 26 (Alfalfa Ditch) to the Ammons Ditch (Ditch No. 38) in Water District  No. 33.

Summary

1.          In years when snow pack is normal, Fort Lewis A & M College has almost enough water for land under cultivation.  However, for the past three winters snow pack has been only 60%-80% of normal.

2.          On average, the No. 3 water in Hay Gulch will run almost the full amount (2 5/8) c.f.s. to some time late in August.  Most years the No. 5 water in Hay Gulch will run well into June and only sporadically after that.

3.          The No. 11 Water (4 c.f.s.) and No. 13 Water (2 c.f.s.) can be considered as “B”, or a high water right only.  According to the District Engineer, and time there is water at the point of diversion for the Ammons Ditch (No. 11 and 13 water rights), Fort Lewis A & M College is entitled to that water.  This does not apply when water in being rotated to New Mexico under the compact for use of water in the La Plata River between the States of Colorado and New Mexico.

April 13, 1955 progress report #1 submitted by James Hunter via President Rea to the State Board of Agriculture

Authority for the continuation of investigations of materials covered by the report was granted by the Executive Committee of the state Board of Agriculture during their meeting on March 29, 1955.  (The report is not included here as it is contained in the meeting minutes of the board, which met on April 13, 1955)

April 13, 1955 Colorado State Board of Agriculture meeting

Mr. Hunter informed the Board of the necessity for providing adequate water supply by installation of a water tank of 100,000-gallon capacity and a pump at estimated total cost of $50,000.  Additionally, Mr. Hunter reported investigations under way with respect to sewage disposal and his assumption that no unusual problems will be encountered, the results of these to be reported at a later meeting.

With respect to proposed financing of construction of housing, it was agreed that the application to the Federal Housing Agency for a loan for dormitory construction costs is to remain as previously applied for, with no housing other than for single students to be considered at present, except for the possibility that the moving of housing for married students from Hesperus campus may be found feasible.

Upon a motion and second it was agreed that the minutes shall show the Boards intent to hire James Hunter as architect for the academic building and such other buildings as may be included in the expanded program at the usual six percent fee, a contract to be presented for later approval by the Board.

With respect to Senate Joint Resolutions 17, pertaining to heating of institutional State Buildings, it was agreed that the text of a proposed reply should be submitted to the Board at a later meeting.

April 18, 1955 letter from President Rea to Mr. W. Dudley Ewing

This is a cover letter for a “simple agreement” for the purpose of the College quarrying stone from a quarry belonging to Mr. Ewing which is located adjacent to Highway 160 about one mile south of the Durango City Limits.  The agreement called for occupying the site by May 1, 1955 and to be able to quarry a minimum of 1000 tons of usable stone for building construction.  The ending date was October 1, 1956 with the agreement that an extension could be done based on the agreement of both parties. President Rea and Mr. Ewing had corresponded about this during March when Mr. Ewing had offered two potential sites for quarrying.  Stone from one of the sites was determined to be unusable due to the fracturing of the stone.  This was caused by the blasting that went on during the clearing for a new highway right-of-way south of Durango.

May 11, 1955 Colorado State Board of Agriculture meeting

Architect James Hunter and Engineer George Hubbard discussed preliminary plans for the Durango campus and location of building and utilities by using a model of the site.  Upon motion and second, the plan for streets and utilities, based on the model, were approved and the architect and engineer were authorized to prepare plans and specifications and to advertise for bids in preparation for awarding contracts.

It was agreed that the engineer shall solicit sealed proposals to furnish a 100,000 gallon elevated water tank and water pumps.  The Executive Committee of the Board was directed to open bids and to consider the awarding of contracts.

Upon motion and second, authorization was given for demolition of Lewis Hall and the salvaging of useable materials.  Additionally, it was directed that a separate account be set up so that the costs for demolition and the value of salvaged materials to be used as a basis for comparison of costs of salvage operations and sales of buildings intact.

Upon motion and second, it was agreed that residences for a caretaker and the president shall be included in the campus planning.  Upon motion and second, it was agreed that plans for the caretaker’s home only shall be drawn at present and that preparation of plans for the president’s home shall be delayed to permit evaluation of the possibilities of moving buildings from the Hesperus campus.

Architect James Hunter presented and discussed drawings showing the “proposed new campus” and an academic building and a gymnasium.  It was agreed that any decision regarding construction of an auditorium shall await later consideration and the plans shall proceed for construction of the academic building and the gymnasium.  It was agreed that the first contract with the architect shall be for planning and construction of the academic building and the gymnasium.

Upon motion and second, President Rea was authorized and directed to present to the State Planning Commission a request for allocation of funds for the establishment of two projects for the Durango site:

1.          Utilities services project to include streets, $20,000; water lines, $25,650; sewers, $20,242; elevated water tank, $32,450 (tank $29,000, foundation $3,450); pumping system, $2,200; Total, $100,542.  (Note: water tank and pumps to be purchased from academic operational fund, Fort Lewis tax fund #3023, thus reflecting a dollar amount for the project of approximately $69,342 to be obligated from building mill levy fund).

2.          Construction of an academic building at an estimated cost of $507,650 and a gymnasium at an estimated cost of $182,650.

May 24, 1955 La Plata County resolution on sale of quarry site to State Board of Agriculture

Whereas, the State Board of Agriculture of Colorado made written application of sale of the hereafter described property;

And Whereas, the County Commissioners of the County of La Plata did cause notice of sale at public sale of such real estate to be advertised and posted in the manner and for the time required by law and did offer such real estate for sale at public sale on the 24^th day of May 1955, at the time and place as stated in said notice;

And Whereas, The State Board of Agriculture of Colorado, bid for said property which bid being the highest and best bid for cash and being more than the appraisal value made by the County Assessor of said property for this year, was accepted by the Board of County Commissioners of the said County of La Plata;

And Whereas, the said State Board of Agriculture of Colorado has paid the sum of One Hundred Dollars and no cents in full payment of said bid for said property;

And Therefore, the County of La Plata by and through the Board of County Commissioners of said county, for and in consideration of the sum of One Hundred Dollars and no Cents paid as aforesaid, and by virtue of the statues in such case made and provided by these presents does grant, bargain and sell the following real estate, to wit:

       All that part of the South Half of Lot 13, lying North of Horse Gulch

In Section 29, Township 35 N. Range 9 W, N.M.P.M.

Reserving to the County all Oil, Gas and other minerals except Quarry Stone.

The Warranty Deed was filed under Reception No. 25113 on July 23, 1955.

May 27, 1955 Executive Committee of the Colorado State Board of Agriculture meeting

Two bids were received relating to the water tank and 7 bids were received for the pump and motor.  Based on the bid of $26,300 (J. G. Daniels, district sales manager, agreed orally to provide performance bond without extra charge) the Chicago Bridge and Iron Company was awarded the bid for furnishing and erecting the 100,000-gallon tank.  Based on its bid of $865 Fairbanks Morse & Co. was awarded the bid for furnishing and delivering a 500-gallon per minute centrifugal pump and electric motor.  President Rea was authorized and directed to prepare and submit purchase orders to the State Purchasing Agent for both items.

Upon motion and second, based on a recommendation from the College, authorization was granted to revise figures in the request to the State Planning Commission for fund allocation as approved at the meeting of May 11, 1955, as follows:

		Amount
		specified
		at May	Revised	Amount
	Item	meeting	figure	of increase
	Streets	$20,000	$30,000	$10,000
	Academic building	$507,650	$585,750	$78,100
	Gymnasium	$182,650	$210,750	$28,100
		$710,300	$826,500	$116,200

June 17, 1955 Colorado State Board of Agriculture meeting

President Rea reported that he had appeared before the State Planning Commission to request allocation of funds for building projects, but has not received any formal notification, although press reports indicate approval.  He additionally reported with respect to the purchase of the elevated water tank from the Chicago Bridge and Iron Co. the requirement by the State Purchasing Agent of a contract in addition to the purchase order.  The contract was signed by the President of the Board and returned to Dr Rea for transmittal.

Mr. Hunter presented and discussed a model of the Durango campus site showing location of some proposed buildings.  It was agreed that Mr. Hunter shall have photographs made of the model and that arrangements shall be made for their display in Durango.

Attention was given to a letter from the Chicago Bridge and Iron Co. objecting to the proposed date for installation.  Mr. Hunter stated that he had wired the company to proceed with its original plans for shipment during the week ending July 2.

Upon motion and second, the architect was authorized to obtain three bids for construction of the foundation for the water tank upon the basis of specifications and to obtain approval of the state Purchasing Agent and to proceed with the work.

Mr. Hunter presented and discussed plans for water and sewer systems on the site.  Upon a motion and second he was authorized to advertise for bids which would be opened by the Executive Committee.

Mr. Hunter through President Rea submitted an engineer’s statement regarding comparative costs of heating the buildings at the Durango campus with electricity, gas and coal for submitting to the joint committee of the general assembly dealing with that subject.

It was agreed that in regards to the installation of gas and electricity that the installations be upon the basis of primary metering.

July 13, 1955 Executive Committee of the Colorado State Board of Agriculture meeting

The committee met for the purpose of opening the bids for the campus water works system and the sewer system.  Burnett Construction Co. Durango’s bid or $16,356.25 for the water works system and $16,531 for the sewer system was the lowest of three bids that had been received.  Upon a motion and second the low bids of the Burnett Construction Co. were accepted.

 

July 19, 1955 Colorado State Board of Agriculture meeting

Under Section III – Miscellaneous, the agenda contained the following information:

As directed by the Board Action of June 17, 1955, bids were obtained for construction of the foundation of the water tank.  Burnett Construction Co. was the low bidder for the project.  The project was awarded and the work was completed on July 12, 1955.

The State Planning Commission on June 15, 1955 approved the building programs as presented to them and set up the following projects.

1.          Project No. 343, Construction of utilities in the amount of $110,542

2.          Project No. 344, Construction of an academic building in the amount of $585,750.

3.          Project No. 345, Construction of a Gymnasium in the amount of $210,750.

The Governor officially approved the projects on June 29, 1955.

Consideration was given an inquiry from the state Board of Land Commissioners about leasing to the Great Western Drilling Company the Fort Lewis land at Hesperus for uranium exploration at 50 cents and acre and a 15% royalty in case of uranium production.  Upon a motion and second it was agreed that the Board favored a lease for uranium development only (not for coal or other minerals), the area of exploration to be limited to the portions of the property specified in an earlier oil-and-gas lease executed with the same company, with a definite lease-termination date specified, and with property protection against damage to state property.

 

July 26, 1955 letter from President Rea to Mildred H. Cresswell, Secretary of State

President Rea requested that the Secretary of State refer his full letter to the Joint Interim Committee on State Institution Building and Construction, because when plans are submitted to the Committee in the future, they will indicate gas as the source of heat with the employment of separate heating units in individual buildings.

 

August 19, 1955 Colorado State Board of Agriculture meeting

A report relating to the summary of cash position and anticipated revenue for the Fort Lewis College Mill Levy Building Fund as of July 31, 1955 was presented to the Board, showing a total amount available for the first phase of construction of $880,345.

A report relating to quarrying operations showed an average cost of $14.75 per ton for the first 500 tons quarried.  Based upon a motion and second the agreement with Jack Rowley was extended to permit the continued quarrying of stone to an approximate total of 1,313 tons.  This is the amount estimated for construction of the academic building and the gymnasium.

Correspondence received from the State Board of Land Commissioners with the respect to leasing the Fort Lewis land at Hesperus for uranium exploration was reviewed.  With respect to the reservation of coal and other minerals from the lease, it was noted, “coal, petroleum, oil, gas and other kindred substances are reserved to the state.”  The wish of the Great Western Drilling Co. that the 105.97 acres comprising the Hesperus campus be included in the lease was considered.  Upon motion and second, it was agreed that this request may be granted, with the provision that no operations shall be conduced on that area except by written authorization by the State Board of Agriculture, or by the State Board of Agriculture and the State Board of Land Commissioners jointly.

Attention was directed to a report that the City of Durango has approved the zoning of the Durango campus as an R-2 residence district, and the contiguous city area as an R-1 residence district, with a public hearing on the subject set for September 13, 1955, and that the La Plata County Commissioners will be petitioned at an early date to zone the county owned property adjacent to the campus.

It was reported that as soon as contracts for the academic building and gymnasium are let and a work order issued, the Housing and Home Finance Agency will be in a position to resume consideration of our application and in all possibility render a favorable decision for the loan.

Architect James Hunter presented preliminary sketches of the academic building and the gymnasium, which the Board members studied and discussed in detail with the architect.  Also studied and discussed were the outline of the specifications and current cost estimate report.  It was agreed that preparation for calling for bids shall proceed upon the basis of the sketches, with minor changes to be incorporated in the plans.  Upon a motion and second the architect was authorized to advertise for bids for construction of both the academic building and the gymnasium.

Upon a motion and second President Rea was authorized to obtain cost estimates for moving nine buildings from the Hesperus Campus to Durango and to request an allocation of Building Mill-Levy funds from the State Planning Commission to cover the costs.

 

September 23, 1955 Colorado State Board of Agriculture meeting

The Board reviewed the “Cost Estimates and Recommendations” relating to moving the buildings from the Hesperus Campus to the Durango Campus.  In view of the judgment of members of the State Planning Commission and Joint Interim Standing Committee on State Institution Building and Construction, expressed at Fort Lewis on the preceding day, that the previously contemplated program of moving buildings is inadvisable, President Rea recommended only the moving of the Vocational Agriculture building No. 29.  Upon a motion and second a request was authorized to be sent to the State Planning Commission requesting the establishment of a project for moving the building at an estimated cost of $6,500.  The amount to be paid from the Mill Levy funds.

Upon a motion and second authorizations were granted as follows:

1.          To substitute for the current application pending before the Federal Housing and Home Finance Agency a new request for an estimated $504,000 to finance construction of four buildings.  One dormitory with a capacity of 60 Women students; two dormitories with a capacity of 60 men students each; a dining facility with lounge areas and other student-union type accommodations.

2.          To employ James M. Hunter, architect, to prepare preliminary drawings of these proposed buildings on a cost-plus basis.

3.          For Daniel E. Black, Business Manager, and James M. Hunter, Architect, to present the institution's request for loans to the Federal Housing and Home Finance Agency in Washington on November 18, 1955.

Upon a motion and second authorization was given to prepare an application to the Federal Housing and Home Finance Agency for a loan to construct a housing project on campus to accommodate 20 married students at an estimated cost of $130,000.  Mr. Hunter was directed to prepare preliminary drawings and to present them to the Agency on November 18, 1955.

Upon a motion and second authorization was given to build a caretaker’s residence and a president’s residence on the Durango campus at estimated costs of $10,000 and $20,000 respectively.  The approval subject to notification to the State Controller, the State Purchasing Agent and the State Planning Commission, it being understood that college labor and salvaged materials will be used to the maximum extent possible.

The State Planning Commission upon review indicated that separate bids are being obtained for construction of a pump house to house the water system pumps and the transformers for the electrical system.  It was agreed that if an acceptable bid to the architect and president is received that President Rea is authorized to sign a contract on behalf of the Board.

Upon a motion and second employment of the Burnett Construction Co. Grading equipment, at $13.00 an hour per tractor and related equipment, with operator, for road and parking lot grading at the Durango campus was authorized.

 

October 7, 1955 Executive Committee of the Colorado State Board of Agriculture meeting
(due to the fact that a sufficient number of members showed up, it is being called a regular meeting)

State Board President Monfort, after having received no responses to an inquiry whether there were further bids to be submitted, declared the call for bids closed and instructed that bids be opened.

The Craftsmen Construction Co. of Denver was the low bidder for the building construction with a base bid of $639,568.  This broke down to $465,800 on the academic building, $142, 560 on the gymnasium and $31,208 for “other work items.”  Brickham and Tomberlin of Denver was the low bidder for the mechanical work with a base bid of $87,600.  This broke down to $66,500 on the academic building, $15,200 on the gymnasium and $5,900 for “other work items.”  Kendall Electric Co. of Grand Junction was the low bidder for the electrical work with a base bid of $77,800.  This broke down to $47,700 on the academic building, $11,500 on the gymnasium and $18,600 for “other work items.”  Authorization was given to award the projects after taking some minor deducts.

President Rea informed the Board of the final passage by the City Council of Ordinance 874 relating to zoning the areas contiguous to the Durango campus, and of preparations for action by the La Plata County Commissioners for zoning county land adjacent to the new campus.

October 21, 1955 Colorado State Board of Agriculture meeting

President Rea presented a proposal for over-all increases in allotments for building and mill levy fund project in the amount of $49,333.25 broke down as follows:

1.          Increase the allotment for Project No. 343 (Utilities) from $78,092.00 to $129,708.25 for an increase of $51,616.25.

2.          Increase the allotment for Project No. 344 (Academic Building) from $585,750.00 to $614,800.00 for an increase of $29,050.00.

3.          Decrease the allotment for Project No. 345 (Gymnasium) for $210,750.00 to $179,417.00 for a decrease of $31,333.00

Upon a motion and second President Rea was authorized to request that the State Planning Commission to make the adjustments to the projects with the additional funds coming from Fort Lewis College Building Mill Levy Fund No. 4012 (analysis indicates that there will be sufficient money available from Fund No. 4102 during the first five years of the ten year building program to provide the additional amount).

November 25, 1955 Colorado State Board of Agriculture meeting

President Rea reported that officials from the Federal Housing and Home Finance Agency recommended that the application for loan assistance for the construction of dormitories and dining hall be increased from $670,000 to $756,000 on the basis of increased construction costs.  Revised estimated earning data indicate that the loan for the increased amount can be amortized out of project earnings.  Upon motion and second, the increase for the loan was authorized.

Upon motion and second, authorization was granted to accept additive alternates to the contract with Craftsmen Construction Co. for general work on the academic building and gymnasium.  The alternates were No. A-1 Asphalt tile in corridors for $750, No. A-2 Ceramic tile wainscot in corridors for $8,250 and A-3 Tile wainscot in faculty toilets for $750.

Upon motion and second, authorization was granted to accept additive alternate to the contract with Kendall Electric Co. for electrical work on the academic building and gymnasium.  The alternate was No EA-1 which provided for the underground electrical distribution system for $3,770.

Upon motion and second, President Rea was authorized to effect change orders with Burnett Construction Co. for installation of sewer and water systems.

December 14, 1955 Colorado State Board of Agriculture meeting

In addition to the additive alternates that were accepted by the Board at the November meeting, President Rea requested that consideration be give to Alternate No A-4 for folding bleacher in the gymnasium to the contract with Craftsmen Construction Co. in the amount of $6,825.  Upon motion and second, the Board instructed that the additive alternates that were approved at the November meeting be cancelled and that they be re-issued with the addition of alternate No. A-4.  By the same motion, a request to the State Planning Commission for increase in allotment of building mill-levy funds in accordance with the additive alternates approved.

By agreement, President Rea was authorized to sign on behalf of the Board an easement agreement with Southern Union Gas Company for right of way of gas lines upon the Durango site of Fort Lewis A & M College.

January 27, 1956 Colorado State Board of Agriculture meeting

The Chemistry building on the old campus is of metal and mortar construction with steel framework and trusses.  The walls are not supporting.  Mr. Hunter, architect, has confirmed that it would be practical to disassemble the building and re-use the steel framework and roof structure for construction of a utility type building on the new campus.  Upon motion and second, authorization was given to complete the project.  The estimated cost to dismantle, move and construct a new building was $5,454.

Mr. Hunter presented sketches of the proposed president’s and the caretaker’s residences.  He was authorized to prepare detailed plans in accordance with preliminary and suggestions made by the board.

Western Colorado Power Company notified the College that a contract is necessary for the extension of power lines to the new campus.  The contract calls for the College to pay a minimum of $100 per month for five years.  The contract to become effective on September 1, 1956 or at any time the Board officially accepts the building from the contractor.  Upon motion and second, President Rea was authorized to sign a five year contract on behalf of the Board with the power company.

It was reported to the Board that on December 15, 1955, notification was received from the Southern Union Gas Company advising the College of the charges to be made for natural gas services.  The rate of .30 per M.C.F. was considerably in excess of the rates being charged to the College for natural gas service.  A protest was raised to the Public Utilities Commission.  The gas company based on their analysis of costs of getting the lines to the campus and delivering natural gas that they cannot do it for less than the thirty cent cost that they quoted; therefore they have withdrawn their offer of natural gas service to the Durango campus.  The College is left with two options, which are to drop the protest to the PUC or find a new source of fuel for the Durango campus, which is not practical.  President Rea indicates that he thinks that the College has no other choice than to withdraw the protest.  Additionally, Mr. Wilson (Supervisor, Southern Union Gas Co.) had told President Rea that in conference with Mr. R. L. Whittlesey (heating consulting engineer of Mr. Hunter) he had agreed to the rate.

The Board agreed to the wording on the dedication plaque that was to be placed in the academic building, which is as follows:

FORT LEWIS A & M COLLEGE

Charles Dale Rea, President

Members of

The State Board of Agriculture

Warren H. Monfort, President

Raman A. Miller, Vice President

Walter G. Lehrer            George McClave

Jesse McCabe             Walter B. Cooper

L. S. McCandless           John H Borwnnell

Ex-Officio

Governor Edwin C. Johnson

William E. Morgan

* * * * *

James R. Miller, Secretary

Joseph M. Whalley, Treasurer

* * * * *

Craftsmen Construction Company

Contractor

James M Hunter, AIA

Architect

1956

February 24, 1956 Colorado State Board of Agriculture meeting

A Gas Sales Contract between the Southern Union Gas Company and Fort Lewis A & M College was presented to the Board for consideration.  The contract called for the payment of thirty cents per M.C.F. for the first 500 M.C.F. per month and then a payment of twenty five cents per M.C.F. for all over 500 M.C.F. per month.  Upon a motion and second approval was given to the contract to purchase natural gas for the period ending December 31, 1958.

A report of the operations of the stone quarry for the period May 1 to November 3, 1955 presented to the Board showed that 1,366.14 tons had been quarried and delivered to the building site for at total cost of $20,654.27 or an average of $15.12 per ton.

Upon a motion and second Architect James Hunter was authorized to proceed immediately with preparation of final plans and specifications for the dormitories upon notification from President Rea that the Federal Housing and Home Financing Agency had acted favorably on the request.

March 20, 1956 letter from President Rea to Mr. Pat Thomas, City Manager

Since visiting with the City Council last Wednesday we have given further thought to the road approach to the new Durango campus.  We have concluded that the best thing to do is to recommend that the present road be improved to the maximum rather than attempt to build a new road.  By widening the road, especially at the two cutbacks and by surfacing it, I believe it could be made into a safe approach.  It is more picturesque than anything else we might come up with.  The suggested road through the picnic grounds into Goeglein Gulch is not acceptable because a person would have to leave the city enter the county and then back in to the city to reach the campus.  One major problem we have been trying to overcome is getting out of the county and into the city.  The psychological effect of leaving the city and going up the back road, so to speak, would be a detriment to the immediate growth of the college, which we must experience in the future.

April 11, 1956 Colorado State Board of Agriculture meeting

A change order was approved to provide a side entrance and exit from the men’s locker room to the outside playing fields.  The change was for a pedestrian door rather than an 8 by 10 foot door as suggested.

Consideration was given to a proposal that the location of the duplex housing units for married students planned for a site north of the water tower be changed in order to give the adjoining golf course a triangular area of land as an access area to the club house in the event of expansion of the course to 18 holes.  It was agreed by the Board that they did not wish to negotiate for any exchange of land for this purpose.

The approval by the U.S. Housing and Home Financing Agency of the $756,000 loan was reported to the board.  Upon motion and second, a resolution that was required by the agency was adopted, which included the statement that Warren H. Monfort be and he is hereby authorized and directed to approve and execute on behalf of the borrower the loan agreement which may be tendered by the United States of America acting by and through the administrator of the Housing and Home Finance Agency, and to take such further action as is necessary to provide the project.  Upon motion and second, President Monfort was authorized to sign the agreement in behalf of the Board upon its receipt from Washington.  Additionally, upon motion and second, Myles P. Tallmadge of Denver was authorized to serve as bond attorney for the institution in connection with the loan.

Upon motion and second, the employment of James Hunter as architect for designing and for supervising construction of the Student Center-dormitories and the duplex units, under conditions provided in state approved form of contract was approved.  Additionally, upon recommendation of the architect, approval was given for the following consultants: Falk Jorgensen, structural engineer; Robert L. Whittlesey, mechanical engineer; and Swanson-Rink and Associates, electrical engineers.

It was agreed that the Student Center-dormitories and duplex units shall be advertised separately for bids, with June 1, 1956 as the date of calling for bids on the duplex units and July 1, 1956 for calling for bids on the Student Center-dormitories.

Attention was directed to a report that further study of the site of the president’s residence as shown up the original campus plans reveals that the west wall of the living room, which is largely glass, would face directly into the vanadium plant and Smelter Hill.  In order to obtain a move scenic view, it was agreed that the building shall be relocated within the immediate area previously approved, and that the architect and the president shall determine the exact angle jointly.

Upon motion and second, an agreement with E. F. Gilbert to provide approximately 2,000 tons of stone at a price of $12.00 per ton for deliveries from the Ewing-Peters quarry, and of $11.50 pr ton for deliveries from the Ewing quarry was approved.

A petition by the student body requesting dedication of the football field and stadium at the new campus as the Ray Dennison Memorial Field in honor of a student who died of injuries received in a football game last season.  Action was postponed until the next meeting.

May 8, 1956 Colorado State Board of Agriculture meeting

Upon motion and second, designation of the athletic field at the Durango Campus as “Ray Dennison Field”, in memory of a student who died as a result of football injuries last fall, was authorized as petitioned by the students.

Upon motion and second, a revocable permit authorizing the Durango Golf Club to connect to the water and sewer lines of the College without cost was approved, the club in return to permit college use of the golf course and the clubhouse for instructional purposes, including inter-collegiate golf matches.

Bids for moving the Vocational Agriculture (Butler-type) building from the Hesperus campus to the Durango campus were opened.  H.C Flaugh Construction Co. from Durango was the low bidder for the project with a base bid of $7,000.  Upon motion and second, the bid for moving and erecting the building in accordance with the plans and specifications provided was accepted.

Bids for excavation and concrete construction at the site of the President and the caretaker’s residences were opened.  H.C. Flaugh’s bid was $6,380 for the President’s residence and $4,000 for the caretaker’s residence with the additional submission of a combined proposal for both projects in the amount of $9,970.  Craftsmen Construction bid $6,657 for the President’s residence and $3,610 for the Caretaker’s residence.  Upon motion and second, Mr. Hunter was authorized to determine the best bid or combination of bids and to issue letter of intent to the contractors accordingly.

President Rea reported that the loan agreement had been received since his departure for the board meeting and that steps would be taken to expedite their signing and return to the Fort Worth offices of the H.H.F.A.

June 22, 1956 Colorado State Board of Agriculture meeting

Upon motion and second, authorization was granted to request the State Planning Commission to establish projects for the removal of the greenhouse from the Hesperus campus and attach it to the academic building at the Durango campus and to raze the chemistry building and use the steel frame and the roofing in construction of a garage-type utility building on the Durango campus.  It was further agreed that the greenhouse foundation shall be faced with stone and that cost shall be held to an over-all total of $4,300.

After negotiations, which were authorized at the May meeting, the bids that had been received from Flaugh and Craftsmen were reversed.  Based on this a motion was made and seconded authorizing the President of the Board to sign the following construction contracts.

1.          Craftsmen Construction Co., foundation of president’s residence, $6,380

2.          H.C. Flaugh Construction Co., foundation caretaker’s residence, $3,610

3.          Kendall Electric Co., electrical work president’s residence, $1,080

4.          H.C. Flaugh Construction Co., move Vocational Agriculture building, $7,000

Based on a conference with the President and Architect with officials of the Housing and Home Finance Agency, not to call separately for bids on the multiple-unit dwellings, which constitute a part of the “Student Center-dormitories” project, it was agreed that bids for the total project should begin on July 2, 1956 with opening scheduled for 1:30 o’clock p.m. on July 26, 1956 with construction to begin no later than September 4, 1956, and be completed by September 1, 1957.

A report was presented to the Board stated that the City of Durango plans to make improvements in the vicinity of the Durango campus as follows: Install a water meter for service to the campus; install 14 street lights on the perimeter of the campus; widen and gravel-surface the position of the roadway leading from the foot of the hill to the municipal golf course.

The Board reviewed the necessity of financing construction costs by obtaining local loans for use pending sale of bonds to be used for paying costs of construction.  Upon motion and second, Business Manager Daniel E. Black was authorized to use bond proceedings and the loan agreement with the Housing and Home Fiancé Agency to borrow in behalf of the Board from the Burns National Bank of Durango, the First National Bank of Durango and the Untied States National Bank of Denver, one or all, amounts necessary to meet construction costs pending the sale of bonds for financing the projects.  Notes to be for periods not to exceed six months and hearing interest at a rate not to exceed four percent per annum, in amounts not to exceed $200,000 and limited to a total for all such loans of $756,000.

A request for an easement for a power-line across the Durango campus by the Western Colorado Power Company presented by R. Franklin McKelvey, legal counsel for the power company was not approved.  This was done in view of the fact that the proposed line, in addition to obstruction of the scenic view where the college itself has spent extra money upon utility installations to preserve the view, would also interfere with use of the area for athletic fields.

July 26, 1956 Colorado State Board of Agriculture meeting

Upon motion and second, a contract with the Petty Greenhouse Construction Co. for removal of the greenhouse and re-construction as part the academic building at a cost of $4,141 was authorized.

The bids for the construction of the Student Center-dormitories and multiple unit dwellings were opened.  Board President Monfort announced that the apparent low bidder for the combined projects was the Craftsmen Construction Co.  He also announced that since the low bid of $884,980 exceeds the $686,925 available for construction purposes, no commitments will be made immediately and that the next procedure will be subject to later decision.

Mr. Hunter requested that he be allowed a week to check all items of the low bid with the contractor and to report to the Board his recommendation for further procedures.  Upon motion and second, it was agreed that the Executive Committee of the Board, with other members who wish to attend, shall be called for conference with the architect, with power to act regarding further procedures for construction on the projects.

Upon motion and second, President Rea was authorized to contract for construction of the President’s residence at a price not to exceed $30,000 with the understanding that electrical work is already under contract.

Upon motion and second, President Rea was authorized to request that the State Planning Commission establish a project for using the steel frame and roof system from the Chemistry building at the Hesperus campus for construction of a garage-type utility building on the Durango campus at an estimated cost of $7,000 to include foundation, floor, mechanical and electrical work and concrete block walls.

August 14, 1956 Executive Committee of the Colorado State Board of Agriculture meeting

The Board reviewed a list of deductions and changes from negotiations with the low bidder by the architect.  These included, (1) deductive alternates totaling $15,150; (2) omitting certain sewer and water mains and connections, electrical facilitates, curbs, gutters, sidewalks and roads, and a utility house, for a total of $48,513; (3) specifying further additional deductions to eliminate an arcade and to reduce bond requirements in the amount of $28,835.  These items totaling $92,498, which lowered the original bid, figure from $884,980 to $792,483.  Further reductions totaling $94,270 computed from a list of change proposals by the Architect, were considered with a view of making the revised bid total $698,212, on which basis the contract might be framed

Payment of utility items (identified above) from building mill levy funds was proposed.  Upon motion and second, it was authorized to begin negotiations with the Federal Housing and Home Finance Agency for an increase of $55,000 in the loan, to make it for a total of $811,000 was suggested.

Upon motion and second, a contract was authorized for construction of the project with Craftsmen Construction Co., in the amount of $698,212.  $3,532 was added to the contract due to the authorization of the State Board for use funds from the College’s Auxiliary Enterprise Funds for the installation of utilities.

August 24, 1956 Colorado State Board of Agriculture meeting

Upon motion and second, it was authorized for the President of the college to change the amount of $55,000 to $60,000 in the request to the Housing and Home Finance Agency.

Upon motion and second, James Hunter was authorized to act as the representative of the Board in seeking a statement from the Attorney General of Colorado for use by the Housing and Finance Agency certifying to the legality of the Board’s negotiations with the Craftsmen Construction Co., designed to arrive at suitable plans and specifications based upon the architect’s plans and upon the company’s bid which will bring the cost within financial limitations provided for construction of a Student Center and Dormitory Units, and Married Student Housing at Fort Lewis A & M College.

September 18, 1956 City transfers property east of City Reservoir to State Board of Agriculture

That, Whereas, on the 11the day of September, 1956, the City Council of the City of Durango, in the County of La Plata, at a regular session, made an order and entered the same of record among the proceedings of said City Council, appointing the party of the first part Commissioner (William J. Horther) to sell and covey certain real estate belonging to said City of Durango and to convey all of the estate of said City in the following described real estate unto the State Board of Agriculture of Colorado, grantee, and the undersigned have accepted the office of Commissioner.

Now, Therefore, the said William J. Horther, Commissioner aforesaid, party of the first part, pursuant to said order and Resolution, and in consideration of a conveyance to the City of Durango by the grantee above named of certain lands described in said Resolution and for other good, valuable and sufficient consideration, the receipt of which is hereby confessed and acknowledged, has granted, bargained, sold and conveyed and does hereby grant, bargain, sell and convey unto the grantee, and its assigns, all of the following described lot or parcel of land situate, lying and being in the County of La Plata and State of Colorado, to wit:

A tract of land lying and being in the South Half of the Southeast Quarter (S1/2 SE1/4) of Section Twenty (20) and the North Half of the Northeast Quarter (N1/2 NE1/4) of Section Twenty Nine (29), All in Township Thirty Five (35) North, Range Nine (9) West N.M.P.M., and being more particularly described as follows, to wit: (complete metes and bounds description) containing 3.767 acres, more of less.

The Commissioner’s Deed was filed under Reception No. 263573 on October 23, 1956.

September 28, 1956 Colorado State Board of Agriculture meeting

Mr. Hunter and Frank M. Hall, President of Craftsmen Construction Co. were present for discussion of the Student Center-dormitory and multiple housing units project.  Upon motion and second, a contract for work in the amount of $753,488 was approved, subject to action taken by the federal agency in granting the requested increase.  Assurance had been give to the architect by telephone during the meeting that the request will be approved.

Upon motion and second, President Rea and Architect Hunter were authorized to check the newly constructed academic building and gymnasium to determine their readiness for acceptance and with the authorization of President Rea to accept the buildings on behalf of the Board if they are found to be satisfactorily complete.

Reference was made to an earlier proposal that the location of the housing units be changed sufficiently to give the adjoining municipal golf course a triangular area of land as an access to the clubhouse in the event of expansion of the course to 18 holes.  The only change this involves is moving the entire project to the west a few degrees.  The number one unit would remain in almost the exact location it is currently plotted for with the other four adjusted so as to keep them in appropriate alignment.  The College had tentatively located a baseball field between the street going in front of the married student housing and the football field.  This proposed movement eliminates that possibility.  To the immediate east of the City reservoir the west college property line is located.  It runs true north and south and is approximately 300 ft. from the reservoir.  For the triangle of land in question and in order to give the College adequate room for a baseball field, the City Council has agree to give to the college a strip of land 125 feet wide running parallel to the property line above mentioned, to the north end of the reservoir and then taking off at an angle of approximately 300 degrees to the road-way going around campus.  It is the combined opinion of Dan Black, Business Manager; Duane Lucas of Craftsmen Construction and me is that this trade would be a distinct advantage to the College and would make for a much better playing field.  The acreage in the triangular plot is estimated to be three and the new plot to be six.  Upon motion and second, the exchange of land was approved and the President of the Board was authorized to sign the deed for the portion being exchanged by the college.

It is recommended that formal dedication of the new Fort Lewis A & M College campus in Durango be withheld until Thursday, May 30, 1957 which is the date of the College’s Commencement Exercises.  The thinking was that the two occasions would occur in the afternoon, so that in addition to the members of the State Board of Agriculture, invitations could be sent to the Governor and other State Officials.  At the general campus dedication individual buildings could be further upon the desire of the Board.  It is believed that some type of ceremony should be held on the occasion of the first basketball game to be played in the new gymnasium.  It was agreed by the Board that formal dedication of the new campus would occur on Thursday, May 30, 1057.

October 18, 1956 State Board of Agriculture transfers triangular piece of property to City of Durango

A Quit Claim Deed was made of the eighteenth day of October, 1956 between the State Board of Agriculture a Public Corporation,  a corporation duly organized and existing under and by virtue of the laws of the State of Colorado, of the first parry, and The City of Durango, a Municipal Corporation, of the County of La Plata and State of Colorado of the second part:  The deed contains a complete metes and bounds descriptions describing the 1.814 acres, more or less that was transferred to the City of Durango.

The Quit Claim Deed was filed under Reception No. 26394 on November 8, 1956.

October 18, 1956 Colorado State Board of Agriculture meeting

Durango City Manager M. W. Thomas requested that provisions be made assuring continued use for public recreations purposes on the land which includes the ski tow house and the ski course, also the site of a pump house, by deeding to the City of Durango the portion of the area which is College property.  Upon motion and second, it was agreed that while the Board recognizes the value of the recreation area to both the city and the College, it does not consider that the need calls for deeding of the area but favors granting an easement, conditioned upon continued use for public recreation purposes.

Based on President Rea having received oral verification of the granting of the application for the additional $60,000 of the federal agency funds for construction, the Board authorized Myles P. Tallmadge, bond attorney, to revise as necessary the records and proceedings which authorized the issue of revenue bonds in the amount of $756,000 and upon basis of the revised document to proceed with printing the bonds in preparation for delivery to the Fort Worth office of the Federal Housing and Home Finance Agency.

Consideration was given to the recommendation for planning a chapel to be known as the T. C. McPherson Memorial Chapel, at an estimated cost of $48,500.  Upon motion and second, authorization was given to use $13,500 from the operational budget toward the construction, subject to clearance with the State Planning Commission, with an additional $15,000 to be used from the so-called Student Union Building Fund (derived from the Veterans On-the-Farm program and not from student fees).  The agenda item reports that James Hunter volunteered to offer his services for design and construction of the chapel at no cost.  Additionally, it stated that the Craftsmen Construction Co. owed the college approximately $13,500 for stone used in the project just completed.

November 6, 1956 letter from Frederick Emigh, City Attorney, to President Rea

The letter contains a Quit Claim Deed for 7.312 acres of land properly known as the ski course and which also includes the road along the north edge of the hill.  This road I included in the description and will be maintained by the City.  Additionally, the letter states that the City Council will have the Power Company move their present power line in a northerly direction on to City property so that the same will not interfere with proposed athletic fields.

November 9, 1956 Colorado State Board of Agriculture meeting

The City Council requested that the property be returned to them by quitclaim deed rather than easement.  President Rea agreed to recommend this to the board with the stipulation that the road be retained and that the Power Company is allowed to move their lines to city property on the north side of the road.  The line was installed for the sole benefit of the city to furnish power to the city filtration plant.  The City Council has agreed to pay for the relocation of the line.  President Rea discussed the possibility of providing substitute land for this plot but a satisfactory agreement could not be reached.  The City based their claim entirely on the fact that the property was erroneously deeded to the College.  It was determined that the College suffered no serious loss from the standing point of relationship with the community and it is deemed advisable to return the land in question.  Upon a motion and second the request of the City was approved and the President of the Board was authorized to sign the quitclaim deed transferring the land to the City.

Upon motion and second, and easement for right of way to the Southern Union Gas company for extension of campus gas lines to the married student housing units was approved with President

Rea authorized to sign an agreement of behalf of the Board.

November, 1956 State Board of Agriculture transfers ski course piece of property to City of Durango

A Quit Claim Deed was made of the tenth day of November, 1956 between the State Board of Agriculture a Public Corporation,  a corporation duly organized and existing under and by virtue of the laws of the State of Colorado, of the first parry, and The City of Durango, a Municipal Corporation, of the County of La Plata and State of Colorado of the second part:  The deed contains a complete metes and bounds descriptions describing the 7.312 acres, more or less that was transferred to the City of Durango.

The Quit Claim Deed was filed under Reception No. 264126 on November 16, 1956.

December 11, 1956 Colorado State Board of Agriculture meeting

Upon motion and second, President Rea was authorized to occupy the president’s residence now nearing completion on the Durango campus.

Consideration was given by the Board to a proposal to construct an auditorium at an estimated cost of $225,000.  Members were not agreed upon the need of this type of building.  It was suggested instead that consideration should be given to accommodating music, dramatics and art instruction, also to museum space.  President Rea was authorized to make studies of this proposal and to obtain preliminary sketches from the architect.

President Rea reported that the State Planning Commission had informed him that an opinion from the Attorney would be necessary relating to the use of tax fund money as partial funding for the proposed T. C. McPherson Chapel.  According to a press report the Attorney General probably will not approve the request.  Assuming the request is held to be illegal, President Rea proposed instead using student union funds (derived from fees assessed against students and banked in Durango), with the $15,000 from Auxiliary Enterprise Fund, which had been pledged for use to equip the Student Center-dormitories, would be reimbursed for this purpose from the On-the-Farm Training Program earnings.  Upon motion and second, this was approved, subject to written approval by the Student Council with respect to use of the Student Union funds on deposit in Durango.

February 8, 1957 Colorado State Board of Agriculture meeting

Bids have been invited for furnishing and installation of kitchen equipment in the Student Center; authorization was given based on a motion and second for the purchase of this and other equipment in a total amount not to exceed $15,000.

Based on a report that the married student units would be ready for occupancy by March 1, 1957 is was confirmed to have signed a conditional “Letter of Occupancy Agreement” to permit occupancy of the units by the President of the Board.

With Architect James Hunter present, the Board reviewed and approved plans for the proposed T. C. McPherson Chapel.  Upon motion and second, President Rea and Mr. Hunter were authorized to negotiate a contract for construction with the Craftsmen Construction Co., and report to the Board.

With Architect James Hunter present, preliminary plans for a proposed Fine Arts building were studied.  Upon motion and second, the plans were approved for presentation to the State Planning Commission with a request to establish a project at an estimated cost of $200,000.

March 15, 1957 Colorado State Board of Agriculture meeting

Bids for the furnishings and installation of equipment of kitchen equipment in the Student Center had been received with Carson Hotel Supply Co., of Denver the low bidder with a base bid of $11,650.  President Rea reported the receipt of a letter from the company stating that a mistake had been made in figuring the bid and suggesting three procedures.

1.          That the company be permitted to withdraw its bid.

2.          That the company be permitted to withdraw its bid and forfeits its bid bond, despite the fact that the bid bond had been returned to it by the College.

3.          That the company installs all equipment at delivered cost, supporting its invoices with factory invoices and absorbing the cost of providing certain items, to “permit the College to purchase the merchandise at a very low figure.”

A letter from the Attorney General indicated that this was a matter for the Board to decide.  Following further discussion a motion was made and seconded that the Secretary notifies the company that “in view of all circumstances pertaining to your bid, the Board expects that you will perform the work and supply equipment and materials in full accord with the specifications and requirements provided you and at the price of $11,650 which you bid.”

President Rea reported, based on authorization by the Board during the February 8^th Board meeting, a request was submitted to the Colorado State Planning Commission asking that a project be established for the construction of a Fine Arts Building at an estimated cost of $200,000.  As a result of a presentation to the Planning Commission on February 21 1957, Project No. 476 for the construction of the building to house an auditorium, museum, and classrooms totaling 13,530 sq ft was established.

The plans for the Fine Arts Building were reviewed with Mr. Hunter present.  Upon motion and second, the architect was authorized to complete the plans and call for bids to be opened on April 10, 1957.

Upon motion and second, plans for installation of utility lines, including water, sewer, gas and electric to the Student Center and the dormitories were approved and the architect authorized to call for bid for May 8, 1957.

Upon motion and second, final plans for the T. C. McPherson Chapel were approved and the Architect and President of the College were authorized to continue negotiations for a construction contract with the Craftsmen Construction Co., at a cost not to exceed $28,500, plus a proposed $5,000 contribution from the company and contribution of the Architect’s services.  President Rea was authorized to sign the contract in accordance with the foregoing provisions.

April 10, 1957 Colorado State Board of Agriculture meeting

Upon motion and second, a contract with James Hunter for architectural services for planning and supervising construction of the Fine Arts Building was authorized subject to the Governor’s approval of the project.

The Board reviewed its decision from the March meeting relating to action taken on the Carson Hotel Supply Company bid.  Upon motion and second, the foregoing directive was annulled and an alternate accepted: namely, that the company shall install all equipment at delivered cost, supporting its invoices with factory invoices, and absorbing the cost of providing items D, E, F, G, H, and I of the specifications to “permit the College to purchase the merchandise at a very low price.”

April 19, 1957 Executive Committee of the Colorado State Board of Agriculture meeting

The Committee met for the specific purpose of opening bids for the construction of the Fine Arts Building.  Architect James Hunter pointed out that the final step in making the construction project official, the Governor’s approval of the project as established by the State Planning Commission is still pending.  Craftsmen Construction Co. was the low bidder for general construction with a base bid of $144,286.00.  Brickham and Tomberlin was the low bidder for mechanical work with a base bid of $25,480.  Reid Electric Co. was the low bidder for electrical work with a base bid of $20,360.91.

May 8, 1957 Colorado State Board of Agriculture meeting

Upon motion and second, action taken by the Board on March 15, 1957, authorizing the calling for bids on May 8, 1957 for installation of utility lines, including water, sewer, gas and electric, is amended as follows: Authorization was granted for the immediate calling for bids on the above project, bids to be opened on May 30, 1957.

May 29-30, 1957 Colorado State Board of Agriculture meeting

Prior to the scheduled opening of the bids for installation of exterior utilities to the student Center and dormitories, Architect James Hunter pointed out the Governor had not yet approved the project, which had been recommended by State Planning Division.  Upon motion and second, the Board voted that bids would be opened, bidders notified of the results and advised that no letters of intent would be issued until final approval is obtained from the Governor.  Brickham & Tomberlin of Denver was low bidder for mechanical with a base bid of $9,230.  Kendall Electric of Grand Junction was low bidder for electrical with a base bid of $15,744.  No bids were received for concrete work so the Board agreed to request the Craftsmen Construction Co. to install concrete work as specified in the project at a price per linear foot bid for similar work in the Fine Arts Building, providing the State Purchasing Agent approves this procedure.

Upon motion and second, the President of the Board was authorized to sign contracts for the Fine Arts Building as follows: Architectural services, James Hunter, in the preliminary amount of $200,000 at six percent; general work, Craftsmen Construction Co., $149,411; mechanical work, Brickham and Tomberlin, $23,480; electrical work, Reid Electric Co., $20,360.91; and for construction of the T. C. McPherson Memorial Chapel, Craftsmen Construction Co., $28,500.

President Rea summarized the project costs for construction of the Academic Building and Gymnasium, movement and re-erection of vocational agriculture shop, movement and re-erection of greenhouse, construction of service buildings, and construction of Student Center-dormitories and married housing units at total authorized cost of $1,816,679.01.

June 21, 1957 Executive Committee of the Colorado State Board of Agriculture meeting

On June 18, 1957 the State Planning Division stating that the Governor had approved Project No. 480 Providing for Installation of Utility Lines and Sidewalks had contacted the College.  The Architect has been authorized to issue letters of intent to contractors for the mechanical and electrical work involved.  No letter of intent had been issued for installation of sidewalks pending clearance of this phase with state officials.

The Executive Committee reviewed the opinion of the State Attorney General indicating that no state funds may be used for the construction of the T. C. McPherson Memorial Chapel.  The Secretary-elect reported that President Rea had given assurance that no tax money will be involved in the project.  The Executive Committee directed the Secretary and the Treasurer of the Board to maintain contact with the progress of construction and to report same to the President of the Board.

July 19, 1957 Colorado State Board of Agriculture meeting

A letter was received from the Board of Land Commissioners requesting the opinion of the Board in regards to the royalty for coal leases on Fort Lewis A & M property.  Upon motion and second, the Board agreed that a royalty of ten percent should be requested by the Board of Land Commissioners in consummating coal leases on college property and the Secretary was instructed to so inform the Board of Land Commissioners.

The Secretary reported that state officials had not yet signed contracts for the Fine Arts Building and Exterior Utilities projects for general, mechanical and electrical work.  A telephone conversation indicated that they would be signed for general and electrical but would not be signed for mechanical because of unsatisfactory relations with the contractor in a 1951 project in Pueblo.  State officials had requested either President Rea or the State Board notify Brickham and Tomberlin of withdrawal of the contract.

Attention to the Board was directed to the fact that performance by Brickham and Tomberlin had been satisfactory on the Academic Building, that the contractor had bid under performance bond and that no notification had come from State Officials that the contractor was unacceptable as a bidder when bids were opened.  The Secretary was instructed to take no action in notifying the contractor and upon receipt in writing of State Officials to deny the contract, to present all facts in the case to the Attorney General for an opinion regarding liability of the Board arising from failure to award a contract to allow bidder whom the Board considers qualified.

Upon motion and second, the following format was adopted for use on all dedication plaques to be installed in new buildings at Fort Lewis A & M College:

Name of Building

Fort Lewis A & M College

Charles Dale Rea, President

Members of the State Board of Agriculture

(List of State Board members)

Ex-officio

Governor Stephen L. R. McNichols

William E. Morgan

* * * * *

Name of Contractor

James M. Hunter, AIA, Architect

Year of Construction

It was further agreed by the Board that the dedication plaque for the Fine Arts Building should include the names of all Board members involved in any way in the project, including Jesse McCabe, Raman A. Miller and L. S. McCandless and should also indicate James R. Miller as secretary and Lowell H. Watts as secretary-elect of the Board.

July 31, 1957 Executive Committee of the Colorado State Board of Agriculture meeting

A general discussion of construction activities at the College revealed several problems in conjunction with the quarry of stone and the installation of stone for the Student Center and the dormitories.  Upon motion and second, it was agreed that Mr. Hunter shall inspect the stone work and render a decision about its acceptability, such decision to be accepted by the Board as final and conclusive.  The motion further directed the Secretary to write Mr. Frank M. Hall, President, Craftsmen Construction Co., Denver Colorado advising him of the Committee’s decision.  It was also agreed that the contractor, stonemason and the architect for the purpose of arriving at an agreement as to the amount of stone acceptable for construction purposes shall make an inspection of stone quarried by the College.

Following a discussion of areas of responsibility of the architect and the president of the college, the Executive Committee agreed that Architect James M Hunter shall be responsible for general supervision of all construction including projects not a part of the architect's contract; that any changes in the general campus construction program desired by the president shall be cleared with the architect; that changes desired by the architect shall be submitted to the president of the college for approval, and in the case of disagreement shall be submitted to the State Board of Agriculture for final decision.

August 14, 1957 Colorado State Board of Agriculture meeting

The Secretary reported the receipt of a letter from the State Board of Land Commissioners indicating that fifteen cents per ton as a fixed rate is the maximum figure that has been obtained by the Board of Land Commissioners for similar lease royalty rates and has requested the Board reconsider its previous action in line with the latest recommendation of the Board of Land Commissioners.  Board member Mr. McGraw reported that before such decision was made, information should be obtained as to the length of operations intended on the part of lease applicants, the probable scope of such operations and their effect upon the land at Fort Lewis.  Upon motion and second, Mr. McGraw was designated to investigate the request for a coal lease at Fort Lewis A & M College and to report his findings to the Board at its next meeting.

October 4, 1957 Colorado State Board of Agriculture meeting

Upon motion and second, the Board approved the proposed budget for Fiscal Year 1958-59 for the College.  The budget request contained an amount of $95,000 being requested for land acquisition.  The land proposed to be acquired will be approximately 17 acres located along the south portion of the property and approximately 53 acres lying on the present golf course, said land to be purchased from the City of Durango.

The Federal Housing and Home Finance Agency required a Board resolution for formal acceptance the Student Center and Dormitories identified as Project 5-CH-22 (FS) for occupancy and general use.  Upon motion and second, the Board confirmed action by the Executive Committee approving an acceptance resolution for the project.

President Rea in discussing current and forecasted enrollment relating to housing requirements pointed out a need for additional married housing units and men’s dormitories.  Upon motion and second, the Board authorized President Rea to submit a loan application to the Federal Housing and Home Finance Agency for the construction of two men’s dormitories at an estimated cost of $186,000 each and for three additional four-plex married housing units at an estimated cost of $32,000 each for a total of $96,000; total cost of the estimated project to be $486,000.

Upon motion and second, the Board authorized President Rea to submit a request to the Colorado State Planning Division asking for the establishment of a project to construct, with building mill levy funds, a football stadium with a seating capacity of 2,000 and to include press box, installation of a time clock, fencing and lighting for a class three field at a total estimated cost of $51,000.

Upon motion and second, the Board approved the naming of a men’s dormitory in honor of Mr. A. M. Camp, past member of the Board and pioneer resident of Durango.

Mr. McGraw reported on a study of an application for a coal lease on Fort Lewis A & M property.  Upon recommendation of Mr. McGraw followed by a motion and second the Board voted to reject the proposed coal lease at a flat rate of 15 cents per ton at this time.

December 11, 1957 Colorado State Board of Agriculture meeting

President Rea reported that occupancy of the three dormitories, student center and the twenty units for married students occurred on September 1, 1957.  Considerable difficulty was experienced with the boiler arrangement in the student center.  An engineering design was required which called for the installation of an additional boiler with the system now working satisfactorily.  The heating systems in the center as well as the dormitories still requiring calibration.  Additionally, due to the extreme precipitation that occurred during the summer and fall, outside work in the way of landscaping, grading, road repairs, etc., were delayed.

President Rea reported that the Chapel construction is progressing satisfactorily with completion expected by January 1, 1958 and that the Fine Arts Building construction was progressing satisfactorily and the building should be released by February 1958.

President Rea reported that the sum of $95,000, originally approved by the Board for land acquisition, as part of the 1958-59 fiscal budgets would be inadequate to purchase approximately 70 acres for which the original action was authorized.  He also reported that purchase price figures submitted to him after the October Board meeting indicated that $135,000 would be necessary to purchase the desired land and that the latter figure had been used in presenting the land acquisition request to the legislative appropriations subcommittee.  He further indicated that the latest proposal from the City of Durango indicated an increase in purchasing price of the land to $160,000.  Upon motion and second, the Board directed President Rea to advise the City of Durango that the initial request of $135,000 could not be increased and that the Board would be interested in acquiring the 70 acres involved at maximum figure of $135,000, providing this sum is appropriated at the next session of the General Assembly.  The same motion authorized President Rea to negotiate separately for the purchase of 20 of the above mentioned 70 acres known as the picnic area at a price of $3,000 per acre if the total acreage cannot be acquired at an acceptable figure.

Upon motion and second, the Board approved the preparation of plans by Architect James Hunter for construction of a football stadium with seating capacity of 2,000, erection of a fence, clock and related facilities at an estimated cost of $55,226 in building mill levy funds, with the provision that the Board shall negotiate with the architect regarding the exact fee to be paid for architectural services.  By the same motion, the Board voted to delete lighting as part of the facilities.

Upon motion and second, the Board approved an increase in the amount of a loan application from $468,000 to $514,000 for the construction of two men’s dormitories and three four-plex units for married students.

Attention of the Board was directed to the issuance of eleven oil and gas leases covering the entire Fort Lewis Farm.  The leases were granted for five-year terms beginning at various dates from May 1, 1957 to September 4, 1957.  Paragraph 10, Article 14, Chapter 124 of Colorado Revised Statutes 1953 was read indicating that all mineral leases on the Fort Lewis Farm shall be approved by the State Board of Agriculture before execution by the Board of Land Commissioners.  It was noted that no prior concurrence had been obtained from the State Board of Agriculture regarding the eleven aforementioned oil and gas leases and that on June 13, 1957 the Secretary had advised the Board of Land Commissioners that the Board of Agriculture did not wish to consider issuance of new leases on Fort Lewis A & M land.  Upon motion and second, the Secretary was directed to request cancellation of the leases by the State Board of Land Commissioners and if corrective action cannot be achieved in this means, to refer the matter to the Attorney General for a decision regarding the legality of present leases.

January 17, 1958 Colorado State Board of Agriculture meeting

It was reported to the Board that the architect and Craftsmen Construction Co. on January 13, 1958, performed a preliminary inspection of the Fine Arts Building and that the final inspection is set to occur approximately two weeks later.  Immediately following the final inspection it has been the Architects policy to authorize final payment even though work done by the Contractor on the assumption that the Contractor will perform it in good faith, and because the Contract provides for a year’s guarantee upon work performed.  A fairly extensive checklist of discrepancies pertaining to other projects performed by Craftsmen Construction Co. which still need to be corrected.  The projects include Project 343, Academic Building and Gymnasium; Project No. Colo. 5-CH-22 (DS), Student Center, Dormitories and Married Student Housing Units; and Project No. 480, Exterior Utilities.  It is understood that final payment on the contract pertaining to Fine Arts Building can be withheld for a period of thirty-five days after final completion and acceptance (Chapter 101, Sec. 16, Colorado Statutes).  The College feels that it is the Architect’s responsibility to negotiate with the contractor regarding the list of discrepancies referred to, and that unless the negotiations are satisfactory to the owner, final payment on Project No. 476 should be delayed.  This procedure could be complicated in that the College would be withholding money due on one project while the discrepancies are against projects performed by the same contractor but for which he as been paid in full.  Board counsel on this matter is requested.

March 29, 1958 Colorado State Board of Agriculture meeting

Attention of the Board was directed to a discussion by Judge Frank E. Hickey, Deputy Attorney General, of oil and gas leases granted by the Board of Land Commissioners on Fort Lewis lands without the knowledge or approval of the State Board of Agriculture.  The Board was also advised that action requested of the Board of Land Commissioners to avoid subject leases and had been refused and that the office of the Attorney General had recommended the State Board of Agriculture proceed directly in the matter, The Board agreed that it would uphold its previous decision to invalidate all oil and gas leases granted during 1957 by the Board of Land Commissioners on Fort Lewis land.  The Board further instructed the Secretary to send letters of avoidance with refund in the full amount of lease moneys paid to each lessee involved.

President Rea presented the following cost analysis relating to construction projects that had been completed on the Durango campus.

	FORT LEWIS A & M COLLEGE
	Cost Analysis of Construction - New Campus
	March 21, 1958
	Buildings
	Academic Building	628,748.73
	Gymnasium	187,903.43
	Fine Arts Building	210,167.68
	Student Center Building	257,054.32
	Women's Dormitory	147,174.82
	Men's Dormitory A	147,174.82
	Men's Dormitory B	147,174.82
	Married Student Housing - Unit A	31,957.54
	Married Student Housing - Unit B	31,957.54
	Married Student Housing - Unit C	31,957.54
	Married Student Housing - Unit D	31,957.54
	Married Student Housing - Unit E	31,957.54
	Industrial Arts Building	10,648.87
	Garage	12,313.61
	Chapel	39,678.28
	President's Residence	27,459.69
	Caretaker's Residence	9,139.20
	Green House	4,174.25
	Total Buildings		1,988,600.22
	Land		8,400.00
	Improvements to Land
	Roadways, Sidewalks, Etc.	24,249.32
	Utilities	185,639.60
	Total Improvements to Land		209,888.92
	Other Improvements
	Painting, Earth-Moving, Etc.		30,000.00
	Total All Costs		2,236,889.14

July 11, 1958 Colorado State Board of Agriculture meeting

The Secretary reported that action taken to void oil and gas leases on Fort Lewis A & M College lands located in La Plata County had resulted in voluntary cancellation by Pan American Petroleum Co., Ralph W. Ball, and Monsanto Chemical Co.  Warrants refunding monies paid by lessees have been tendered.  It was further reported that the British American Petroleum Co. and Sunray Mid-Continent Oil Co. had refused to accept cancellation and that the matter had been placed in the hands of Judge Frank E. Hickey, Deputy Attorney General, for disposition in the courts.

A letter from the State Board of Land Commissioners was read requesting, at the suggestion of the Governor, a meeting of agencies concerned regarding further handling of lands in the Fort Lewis area.  A committee composed of Board Members Mr. Lehrer, Mr. Cooper, Mr. Monfort and Mr. McGraw was appointed to represent the State Board of Agriculture in future negotiations.  The committee agreed that no further action should be taken until the pending court tests clarity of the responsibility and authority of the Board on matter of oil and gas leases on Fort Lewis lands and indicates the relation of that responsibility to authority of the State Board of Land Commissioners.

September 11, 1958 Colorado State Board of Agriculture meeting

The Board instructed the Secretary to write the Attorney General’s office requesting that suits for voidance of oil and gas leases on Fort Lewis property be brought to court at the earliest practical date.

SECTION III – MISCELLANEOUS (SBA Board agenda item 10. Paving Approach Road to Campus)

On July 10, 1958, President Rea had a hearing with the Durango City Council at which time they were asked that the approach road to the campus be brought up to grade and surfaced by “black topping.”  (Attending the hearing in addition to President Rea were members of the College’s Advisory Committee, (A.M. Camp, Stanley J. Weidman, Robert Ayers, Dennis Viles, Sam Miller, Schuyler Parker, James Noland, Art Ballantine, Pat O’Brien and Dave McGraw), President of the Chamber of Commerce, Earl Barker, Jr., President of Junior Chamber of Commerce, Bill Hemingway, Representative of the Lions Club Schuyler Parker, Representative of Kiwanis Club Don Johnston, Representative of Rotarian Club Everett Admire and College Business Manager Daniel E. Black.  After President Rea’s presentation to the council the members of the organizations presented a written statement asking the City Council to improve and maintain the approach to the campus.

During a meeting a few days later of the Citizens Advisory Committee they were informed that the cost to put a 24 foot two inch hot mix mat on the approach road from the foot of the hill to the Golf Course entrance would be $9,430.65 and that for an additional $400.00 the three curves could be widened to Thirty six feet.  At the meeting it was concluded that an effort would be made to raise the money by solicitation.  Mr. Ballantine was asked and agreed to inquire about probable donors.

Following the above action the City Council meeting minutes from the August 12, 1958 reflect the following action:

“Upon motion by Commissioner Wegher, Seconded by Commissioner Miller and by all members voting aye in answer to roll call, the City is to bring the road from end of pavement at foot of the hill to course grade for sub base (Not fine grand or compaction).  When this section has been finally paved the City will accept the road for maintenance to be maintained within the present ability of the city.  At that time also, accept for maintenance, the paved portion of the street from the golf course entrance to the city property north of the college chapel.”

It was agreed that grading work could be started during the week of August 25, 1958, that the City and County would cooperate in furnishing equipment, labor and certain materials.  The College also agreed to help when possible.

During the meeting of the Citizens Committee Mr. Ballantine, who had personally done about 90% of the solicitation, reported that over $8,800.00 had been pledged to the project.  Based on this authorization was given to widen the curves to 36 feet.  An all out effort was to be made to complete paving by the time student’s start coming onto campus.

After reviewing this information the Board upon a motion and second, dedicated the City of Durango the road right of way running from the boundary of college owned property at the foot of the hill to the golf course entrance of the Fort Lewis A & M campus, thence along the south border of the campus, thence north to the city property line just beyond the college chapel.  The dedication was approved with the understanding that the city will accept the dedication and maintain it as a city street to the best of their ability.

October 17, 1958 Colorado State Board of Agriculture meeting

Attention of the Board was directed to a request by the Board of Land Commissioners to join with the Board in submitting to the Governor of Colorado a request for an interrogatory from the Governor to the Supreme Court of the State of Colorado for the purposes of expediting litigation relative to certain oil and gas leases between Sunray Mid-Continent Oil Co. and British American Oil Co. and the State Board of Agriculture.  The Board agreed that since the submission of an interrogatory does not meet with the approval of the Attorney General that the Board would not join with the Board of Land Commissioners in requesting the interrogatory.  The Secretary was instructed to request informally that the Board of Land Commissioners take steps to lease those parcels of Fort Lewis A & M lands which are not involved in oil and gas lease litigation and on which release of previous leases has been obtained.

December 10, 1958 Colorado State Board of Agriculture meeting

Upon motion and second, approval was given to request from the State Planning Division an increase from $55,226 to $78,626 for the construction of the football stadium.  The increase to provide for an additional 500 seats, construction of a retaining wall along the front of the stadium, installation of concrete curbing around the inside and outside of the track and extension of water lines to the athletic field area.

President Rea reported a proposed resolution presented by the Durango City Council pertaining to sewer and water lines on the Durango campus.  After noting that the proposed resolution called for commitment by the Board for use of state facilities under a blanket provision benefiting the City of Durango and upon motion and second, the Board disapproved the request.  The Secretary was instructed to write the City Council of Durango and inform them that the denial was based on the Board’s responsibility to maintain control of state property, the jurisdiction of which is vested in the Board.

Upon motion and second, the Board voted not to join in any request to the Governor to submit an interrogatory to the Supreme Court requesting that litigation pertaining to Fort Lewis oil and gas leases be placed upon the Supreme Court docket without passing through normal legal channels, The Board also agreed that those Fort Lewis A & M lands which are free of oil and gas lease litigation be offered for lease during the first half of 1959, the Secretary to notify the Board of Land Commissioners of the desired schedule for advertising for lease.  It was further agreed that the time of offering the lease be determined by Board Member Mr. McGraw.

January 9, 1959 Colorado State Board of Agriculture meeting

Upon motion and second, the Board authorized the move of a three bedroom house from the old campus to the Durango site and to rehabilitate it as a rental unit for operational personnel.  The motion further authorized retention of another two-bedroom house at the Hesperus campus for moving the Durango at a later date.  Additionally, the motion approved the disposal of three additional structures on a sale and bid basis, such sales to be coordinated with the purchasing agent.  (The agenda item showed the cost estimated to move the three-bedroom house and to set it on a foundation with all utilities hooked up would be $3,700.00 and that if it were rented for $75.00 per month it could amortize the cost of the move at a rate of $900.00 per year.)

It was reported to the Board that the request from the Board of Land Commissioners to offer certain parcels of Fort Lewis A & M College lands for oil and gas lease during the month of February is on file.  Mr. McGraw also reported certain reluctance on the part of the Land Board to lease any Fort Lewis lands since litigation is now pending on other parcels in the same area.  After discussion the Board agreed to take no further action at this time.

February 13, 1959 Colorado State Board of Agriculture meeting

President Rea reported to the Board that as of this date that the Durango Campus’s total plant valuation was $2,225,679.35.

Attention of the Board was directed to the fact that the Board’s request that the State Board of Land Commissioners advertise for lease certain Fort Lewis A & M lands had received no action.  The Board agreed that not further requests for action in the matter would be taken.

March 13, 1959 Colorado State Board of Agriculture meeting

Upon motion and second, authorization was given to reorganize the college on a divisional basis the motion provided for:

1.          Establishment of five major academic divisions of Liberal Arts; Science, Mathematics and Engineering; Humanities and Language Arts; and Agriculture and Applied Arts.

2.          Implementation of academic rank for members of the teaching faculty.

3.          Selection of a division chair.

4.          Change in title of Director of Student Affairs to Dean of Student Affairs.

5.          Establishment of Coordinator of Research

6.          Acceptance of organizational chart presented to the Board on March 13, 1959

Effective date of the reorganization was July 1, 1959.

April 8, 1959 Colorado State Board of Agriculture meeting

It was reported to the Board that Mr. W. D. Ewing of Durango had offered to give approximately 80 acres of land lying east of the campus to the Fort Lewis Board providing expenses of the required land survey and preparation of legal documents is borne by the Board.  The Board was also advised of a verbal offer by a Mrs. Perkins of Durango to sell approximately 60 acres in the same vicinity lying adjacent to the Ewing tract for a total purchase price of $500.  Upon motion and second, authorization was granted to accept the gift of land from Mr. Ewing and to purchase the Perkins tract for a total of $500.00.

This action was taken based on the SBA agenda item, which stated:

April 3, 1959 Zaidee Perkins conveys property to Fort Lewis Agricultural and Mechanical College

A Deed was created whereby for consideration of Ten Dollars and other valuable considerations, Zaidee Perkins conveyed Lots Two (2) and Three (3), Section Twenty-seven (27), Township Thirty-five (35) North, Range Nine (9) West, N.M.P.M. containing 57.14 acres more or less,  Additionally, Reserving all oil, gas and other minerals to Grantor.

The Warranty Deed was filed under Reception No. 289844 on May 19, 1959.

May 12, 1959 Colorado State Board of Agriculture meeting

Upon motion and second, the President was authorized to negotiate and sign an agreement with the Durango Municipal Recreation Association authorizing the Association to connect to water and sewer lines of the college without cost to the Association and providing for use of the golf course and club house for instructional purposes and inter-collegiate matches.

June 1, 1959 Colorado State Board of Agriculture meeting

President Rea made a request before the Board for authorization to submit an application for land to the Bureau of Land Management.  The request also involved approval of a statement of intended use of the land for which application is intended.  Upon a motion and second, approval was granted for the submission of the application to the Bureau of Land Management for the following described tracts of land and on the application schedule indicated:

(The legal description was for three separate but adjoining tracts of land, with parcel one containing 605.03 acres, parcel two containing 638.50 acres and parcel three containing 440.37 acres for a total of 1,683.9 acres.  Aerial photos indicate the land is located in the vicinity of Ewing mesa and east to the Y intersection at 160 – 550 intersection and lies to the north.)

The motion also approved the following statement regarding proposed use of the lands.

1.          As Fort Lewis A & M College continues to grow, so do its educational, recreational and space needs.  The first two purposes for which the land can be used if the application is granted come under the heading of educational needs, i.e. agricultural and archeological purposes.

2.          Regarding the agricultural uses, the proximity of land to the College will facilitate agriculture study problems related to range management.

3.          The second educational use is n the field of the study of archeology.  The College presently has an archeological collection, most of which was obtained in this vicinity.  As such sites are discovered on this land; they will be preserved and protected for methodical study and development.  Again the fact that this land is so convenient to the location of the College explains one of the reasons for this application.

4.          The third basic use for which the land is intended is recreational.  As the College expands, the extent and variety of recreational facilities need grow with it.  These include needs for picnic grounds, bridle paths and hiking areas near the College campus.

5.          Of course, the College is not a profit-making institution and does not expect any net revenue from the project as a whole, considering the nature of the land and the three-fold use pattern planned.

July 24, 1959 Colorado State Board of Agriculture meeting

Upon a motion and second the Board authorized the combining of bids for project No. 637, Athletic Stadium addition and the installation of an air conditioning unit in the administrative wing of the Academic Building and project No. 615, miscellaneous repairs, to permit bidding on an individual or a combined basis.

September 11, 1959 Colorado State Board of Agriculture meeting

Upon motion and second, James Hunter, Architect, was authorized to proceed with architectural-engineering, legal data and exhibits for presentation to the Federal Housing and Home Finance Agency as supplemental information relating to the loan request for construction of two dormitories for men, three four-plex married housing units and an addition to the Student Center at a total estimated cost of $514,000.

Attention was directed to the results of bids that were opened by the State Purchasing Agent for an addition to the football stadium and the installation of sun control and air conditioning units in the administrative wing of the Academic Building.  The low bidder for the stadium addition was Teconco Builders of Durango with a base bid of $19,647 and the low bidder for the sun control and air conditioning units was McGechie Construction Co. of Cortez with a base bid of $3,490.

September 8, 1959 letter from President Rea to Duke Dunbar, Attorney General

The letter states that the College has requested that the La Plata County Commissioners give to the College seven-quarter sections of land lying immediately east of the Durango campus site.  The County has indicated its willingness to give the land to the College is it can legally be done.

The purpose of the letter is to request the Attorney Generals assistance in checking the statutes to determine if there is a provision, which allows one governmental agency to transfer land to another governmental agency without charge.  The proposed use of the land would be for recreation, education and agricultural experimentation.

October 8, 1959 letter from Duke Dunbar, Attorney General, to President Rea

Mr. Dunbar in his letter states: "There is no doubt but that the County could not just give away county property without adequate consideration being received for the transfer.  He presented two examples one of which was the gift of land to the Federal Government by the City and County of Denver for the establishment of Lowry Field, and the gift by the State of Colorado to the Air Force for the Air Academy.  These gifts were not really donations in the sense that they received nothing in return, because in both instances a great benefit resulted from the donors.  The Lowry Field case went to the Supreme Court, which upheld the transaction.  In the case of La Plata County, it would be a question as to whether or not the County was receiving something in return from the transaction what would be of such a benefit to the County that it would be considered adequate consideration."

October 16, 1959 Colorado State Board of Agriculture meeting

Unanimous approval was granted for the President of the Board to sign a contract with James M. Hunter for architectural services for the addition to the athletic stadium and to install air conditioning units and sun control in the Academic Building.

November 20, 1959 Colorado State Board of Agriculture meeting

Upon motion and second, with one abstention, the following statement directed to the Committee on Education Beyond the High School urging authorization of the transition of Fort Lewis A & M College to senior college status was approved:

December 9, 1959 Colorado State Board of Agriculture meeting

President Rea reported that he had received information on proposed changes in the management of loan funds for student housing construction.  The proposal stated that the outstanding dormitory bonds, Series 1956, will be refunded and a student housing accounting system will be established under one bond issue.  The proposed system has numerous advantages, most important of which is that the receipts from all dormitory units will be pooled and payment made on a single obligation.

Upon motion and second, the Board granted authorization for Myles P. Tallmadge of Denver to serve as bond attorney in connection with the anticipated loan for construction of two dormitories, married student apartments and an addition to the Student Center.

---

Chapter II: The 1960s

 

January 8, 1960 Colorado State Board of Agriculture meeting

SECTION II – FISCAL ITEMS – 1 Land Acquisition  (SBA agenda item)

Included in the Long Range Planning Study for the College are the contemplated land needs.  As part of the land needs there is a proposal to obtain from La Plata County seven quarter sections of land lying generally east of the present campus.  As previously reported to the Board the County Commissioners expressed a willingness to transfer ownership of this property to the College at a nominal charge, provided they could do so legally.  The County Attorney has informed the Commissioners and me that since the land in question was acquired by tax title, the law specified that if it is to be sold it must be done by public sale, which means opening it up for bids.  The commissioners informed President Rea that under the circumstances the minimum bid must be equal to the appraised valuation, which, in this case, is $560.00.  They stated that if the College submits a bid in this amount they would make every effort to let the College have it at the appraised value.

Upon motion and second, approval was granted for President Rea to submit a bid for the purchase of the described lands in the total amount of $560 to be paid from the Auxiliary Enterprise Funds.  (In the listing of the seven individual lots one carried the following limitation: Lot 12 (NW ¼ SW ¼) 28-35-9 Less tract to Burnett Construction Co. (This is a site on top of Raider Ridge where Burnett had a radio tower; one of the current owners is Former Board member Ron Pettigrew.  Action should be taken to get it transferred to the College.).

In reply to a letter dated December 15, 1959 to President Rea from W. M. Williams, Director of State Planning Division, regarding the moving of the three bedroom house from Hesperus to the Durango campus, President Rea reviewed for the Board the events relating to the move.  The Board on January 9, 1959 approved moving the residence, which was accomplished in November 1959 at a cost of $600 to move it with an estimated cost of $1,000 to rehabilitate the residence.  Mr. Williams requested that the master plan for the college be revised to show the location of the house and that it be included in the revised long-range plan.  He also stated that any residences moved in the future should be included in the master plan and submitted to the Planning Division for approval.

January 11, 1960 letter from President Rea to Franklin McKelvey, County Attorney

The letter contains the Application for Sale of the County Lands, and a copy of the Assessor’s Certificate of Valuation for County Lands for which the application is being submitted.

February 19, 1960 Colorado State Board of Agriculture meeting

President Rea discussed the efforts to obtain senior college status for Fort Lewis A & M College and reported his opinion that the next 90 days would be the most critical.  He suggested that the Secretary prepare a letter for Board President Cooper’s signature to the sent to Senator Roy H. McVickers, Chairman of the Legislative Committee on Education Beyond the High School, expressing thanks for the efforts of the Committee and for copies of reports and minutes of the Board be offered as assistance to the Committee in completing its difficult job.

March 8, 1960 La Plata County sells property to the State Board of Agriculture of the State of Colorado

Whereas, on the 8h day of March, 1960, the Board of County Commissioners of the County of La Plata, State of Colorado, at a regular session made a Resolution and entered the same of record among the proceedings of the said Board of County Commissioners directing that the real estate herein described be conveyed to the State Board of Agriculture of the State of Colorado herein for the sum of Five Hundred Sixty and No/100 Dollars ($560.00)

Therefore, Emil G, Johnson, Commissioner, party of the first part, pursuant to said Resolution and in accordance to law and for and in consideration of the sum of Five Hundred Sixty and No/100 Dollars ($560.00) and other good, valuable and sufficient considerations in hand paid to the party of the First Part by the said party of the Second Part, the receipt whereof is herby confessed and acknowledged, has remised, released sold, conveyed and quit claimed and by these presents does remise, release, sell convey and quit claim unto the party of the Second Part, its successors and assigns forever, all of the right, title, interest, claim and demand which the County of La Plata, State of Colorado, and the party of the First Part has in and to the following described premises situate, lying and being in the County of La Plata, State of Colorado, to wit:

Lot 4 or (NW1/4 NW1/4) Section 27, Township 35 North, Range 9W N.M.P.M

Lot 1 or (NE1/4 NE1/4) Section 28, Township 35 North, Range 9W N.M.P.M

Lot 2 or (NW1/4 NE1/4) Section 28, Township 35 North, Range 9W N.M.P.M

Lot 6 or (SE1/4 NW1/4) Section 28, Township 35 North, Range 9W N.M.P.M

Lot 7 or (SW1/4 EW1/4) Section 28, Township 35 North, Range 9W N.M.P.M

Lot 11 or (NE1/4 SW1/4) Section 28, Township 35 North, Range 9W N.M.P.M

Lot 12 or (NW1/4 SW1/4) Section 28, Township 35 North, Range 9W N.M.P.M

       Less tract of Burnett Construction Company

Reserving however unto the County of La Plata in the State of Colorado any and all oil, gas, mineral, and mineral rights in, under, on and that may be produced from the above described premises, together with any or all income there from produced unto said County of La Plata for use for County purposes.

The Commissioner’s Deed was filed under Reception No. 296852 on April 11, 1960.

March 8, 1960 letter to Board of County Commissioners from President Rea

The letter states that check no. 3225 in the amount of $568.58 covering payment in full for the purchase of land is included with the thanks of the College for the Board’s cooperation in this matter.

April 1, 1960 Colorado State Board of Agriculture meeting

Board member Mr. McGraw reported on that the land purchase of 280 acres of land for two dollars per acre from La Plata County had been completed.

April 21, 1960 Sub-Committee on Fort Lewis College meeting

Board member Mr. McGraw, Chairman of the subcommittee informed those present that the purpose of the meeting was to review the present arrangements regarding agronomy and cattle research in hopes of reaching basic conclusions that could be presented to the Board in May 1960.  A review of the Colorado Revised Statutes, 1953 Annotated, by Dr. Rea revealed that “Instruction in Agriculture, mechanical and household arts, and the training of teachers” is a basic requirement.  This meeting was necessitated due to informal discussions that took place during the April 1, 1960 State Board meeting relating to cattle and agronomy research being conducted on the Fort Lewis A & M Farm at Hesperus, Colorado.

The conclusions of the subcommittee were as follows:

1.          The Fort Lewis reservation comprises 6, 318 acres.  It is our opinion that at present and in the foreseeable future this amount of land is more than ample for the needs of both the College and the Experiment Station.

2.          Future of the College centers around expansion of the Liberal Arts Curriculum; however, the agriculture curriculum is a requirement and must be continued

3.          The College, as needed, will use the college farm located south of Hesperus, Colorado, and owned by Fort Lewis A & M College.  Acreage and facilities not required in their immediate operation or contemplated use should be made available to the Colorado State University Experiment Station on a Lease Basis.

4.          Any Lease entered into with CSU should be for a definite period of time, but under no circumstances to exceed five years.

5.          Lease rates for pasture land or for field crops should be comparable to the established rates in the area less a percentage equal to that of estimated taxes on the acreage involved.

6.          The Experiment Station of Colorado State University on or before November 1, 1961 should make negotiations for the purchase of the experimental herd in its entirety from Fort Lewis A & M College.  If necessary, payments for the herd may be extended over a period of time.

7.          Fort Lewis A & M College will prepare a map of the College farm indicating thereon their needs, showing present minimum requirements, contemplated requirements for the period July 1, 1961 through June 30, 1966, U.S. Forest Service Nursery requirements and acreage and facilities that may be made available for lease to the CSU Experiment Station.

May 10, 1960 Colorado State Board of Agriculture meeting

Upon motion and second, the resolution authorizing the adoption of the loan agreement for the Student Center Addition, two men’s dormitories and the married student housing units was approved.  By the same motion President Rea and Business Manager Dan Black were given approval to negotiate with the First National Bank and the Burns National Bank of Durango for an interim construction loan in an amount not to exceed $250,000 with an interest rate of not more than 4.25% with the understanding that loans would be repaid immediately upon sale of bonds and receipt of loan proceeds.

Mr. Hunter, Architect, presented plans and specifications prepared for the above referenced construction projects.  Upon motion and second, the plans and specifications were approved and the resolution required by the Housing and Home Finance Agency, was adopted.  Mr. Hunter was requested to obtain approval of the plans and specifications for the construction of these buildings from the State Planning Division and from the Fort Worth office of the Housing and Finance Agency.

The report of the Fort Lewis subcommittee and the recommended agreements regarding agronomy and animal husbandry research were discussed with the conclusion that Mr. Lowell H. Watts, Director of Extension and Coordinator of Agricultural Programs, S.S. Wheeler, Director of the Experiment Station, Dr. H. H. Stonaker, and Dr. R. S. Whitney meet with President Rea at Fort Lewis A & M College on May 27 to discuss the future of the San Juan Branch Station.

July 29, 1960 Colorado State Board of Agriculture meeting

Mr. McGraw on a meeting of the Legislative Council held at Durango, Colorado, July 8, 1960, for the purpose of considering the old Hesperus campus as a site for a mental health center.  Attention of the Legislative Council was directed to a discussion of the needs of the area for a mental heath center as compared to a boys’ town type of facility.  As a part of their consideration of the area, a tour of the old campus was made.  There were no conclusions reached during this session.

The results of the bids that were opened by a representative of the State Purchasing Agent for the construction of an addition to the Student Center, three four-plex housing units, and two men’s dormitories were reported.  It was found that after tabulation that the total was $171,750 under the total estimated cost.  The College requested approval from Federal Housing and Home Finance Agency to use $88,314 for additional construction, which was granted.  Based on these facts the low bidder for general work was McGechie Construction Co., was for $340,864 including accepted additives, the low bidder for mechanical work was Brickham and Tomberlin with a bid of $91,500 including additives for mechanical work on a women’s dormitory, and the low bidder for electrical was Nichols Electric with a bid of $30,556.50 including additives for electrical work on a women’s dormitory.

President Rea reported on the hearing before the committee on Education Beyond the High School held on July 23, 1960, in the state capitol building.  President Rea provided Board members with a copy of a report provided to the committee titled “Fort Lewis A & M College – a Pilot Program.”  This program proposes a tri-semester calendar rather than a two-semester system and is aimed at nine semesters work in three years time.  It was proposed that liberal arts training be given in the first part of the program with an opportunity for specialization and the earning of a degree completed in three years time.  Upon motion and second, the following statement was unanimously approved:

September 10, 1960 Colorado State Board of Agriculture meeting

Upon motion and second, Board approval was granted to submit a project application to the Planning Division for road and street improvements to include curb and gutter, sidewalk installation and a minimum of blacktop road surfacing.

The Board recommended the dairy cattle at the Hesperus campus at Fort Lewis A & M College be sold at public auction at an early date.

October 7, 1960 Colorado State Board of Agriculture meeting

Upon motion and second, Board approval was granted to sell the college dairy herd amounting to 85 animals at a special public auction as soon as arrangements for the sale can be made.

Upon motion and second, an application to the Federal Housing and Home Finance Agency for a loan in the amount of $613,500 to finance construction of a women’s dormitory to house 200 students and an addition to the Student Center for the expansion of the food service area was approved.

Upon motion and second, approval was granted leasing the 6,318 acres of land comprising the Fort Lewis reservation at Hesperus, Colorado, to the Colorado Agricultural Experiment Station at the rate of $10,000 per year for the period November 1, 1961 to July 1, 1963; the lease to continue at the same rate thereafter unless changed by Board action.  This action conforms to the basic policies for operation of the Fort Lewis Reservation approved by the State Board of Agriculture on June 17, 1960.  Upon motion and second, it was approved that November 1, 1961 is the date that the Agricultural Experiment Station will take over management of the Fort Lewis Reservation at Hesperus Colorado.

December 13, 1960 Colorado State Board of Agriculture meeting

Upon motion and second, approval was given for President Rea to submit a project application for authorization to move a three bedroom frame house from the old campus to the new campus at Durango at a cost of $5,000 and providing that the future rental revenue from the residence would go into the general operating fund of the College.

President Rea discussed efforts to obtain senior college status for Fort Lewis A & M College and recommendations of the Legislative Committee on Education Beyond High School to legislature that no more four-year institutions of higher learning be established at this time.  President Rea said that there may be some effort to introduce a bill to establish Pueblo Junior College as a four-year school, should this happen President Rea forecast that Fort Lewis supporters would likely introduce a bill to make Fort Lewis A & M College a four-year institution.  President Rea proposed that the Board reaffirm its position on this matter and modify the previous resolution and direct it to the Governor and General Assembly.  The proposal was tabled until the next meeting.

 

January 14, 1961 Colorado State Board of Agriculture meeting

Mr. McGraw reported a conversation with Senator Paul Wenke and Representative Forrest Burns regarding control of the sub-surface rights on the Fort Lewis Reservation.  Both Senator Wenke and Representative Burns requested to be informed of the Board opinion on this matter.  Upon motion and second, approval was granted for the Secretary to notify Senator Wenke and Representative Burns that the Board recommends responsibility for the control of the sub-surface rights on the lands included in the Fort Lewis Reservation be assigned to the State Board of Agriculture.

Upon motion and second, approval was granted the following action taken by the Fort Lewis A & M College Committee:

The Sub-Committee of the State Board of Agriculture on Fort Lewis A & M College met at the Northern Hotel with the following members present: Chairman David E. McGraw, Chester K. Enstrom, and Walter G. Lehrer.  Also present was President Charles Dale Rea.  It was moved, seconded and unanimously carried that the administration of Fort Lewis A & M College be directed to plan for:

1.          A full course of study leading to a baccalaureate degree programmed on a trimester calendar beginning September 1, 1962.

2.          A general liberal arts curriculum as outlined in the document “A Pilot Program for Fort Lewis A & M College,” dated February 1960.

February 25, 1961 Colorado State Board of Agriculture meeting

Upon motion and second, the following bond resolution authorizing the issuance of Fort Lewis A & M College Furniture Rental Revenue Bonds in the principal amount of $70,000 at an interest rate of 4 ¾% annually, was approved.  The proceeds will be used to purchase furniture for the three dormitories, game room, and married student apartments constructed.  This approval authorized the assessment of a special student fee amounting to eight (8) dollars per year and a furniture rental charge on all existing dormitory units including those under construction of ten (10) dollars per unit per year.

Upon motion and second, approval was granted to credit the funds received from fines levied for illegal parking on the campus to the College Chapel Fund, effective January 1, 1961.

May 10, 1961 Colorado State Board of Agriculture meeting

Upon motion and second, approval was granted to modify the floor plan arrangement in the new dormitory designed to house 200 women so as to provide a connecting bathroom for each two residence rooms rather than a community bathroom arrangement as now exists in dormitories at Fort Lewis A & M College,

Upon motion and second, approval was granted to transfer the farm equipment now located at the Hesperus campus from the inventory of Fort Lewis A & M College to the Colorado State University Experimental Station at no charge, effective November 1, 1961.  Based upon acquisition cost and present condition, the inventory had a current value of $32,013.00.  Authorization was granted to request approval from the State Purchasing Agent to make the transfer. 

June 16, 1961 Colorado State Board of Agriculture meeting

President Rea, Dean Randall Taylor and Director Le Roy Goodwin briefed the Board on a presentation that they had made to the Joint Budget Committee of the Colorado General Assembly on May 5, 1961 relating to a Program for “Year Round Education” at Fort Lewis A & M College.

Upon motion and second, approval was given for the College to submit project applications to the State Planning Division.  Included in the list was a Science Building for $406,000, an Arts Unit for $366,000, land acquisition for $8,200 and a listing of maintenance projects.

Business Manager Daniel E. Black reported that in the process of repairing the dam constructed to impound domestic water for the Hesperus campus, it was found the Board has no filing for water to fill the reservoir.  Consequently, the State Engineer’s Office has suggested the Board file for water in order to establish a legal water right.  Upon motion and second, approval was granted for the Western Engineering Firm, of Grand Junction, Colorado to prepare the data required to file for water rights as a part of the engineering services, this firm is under contract to provide to the Board.

August 4, 1961 Colorado State Board of Agriculture meeting

President Rea reported Western Engineers of Grand Junction, Colorado, have completed the necessary specifications for rehabilitation of the reservoir at the Hesperus campus and have sent them to the Colorado State Planning Division and the State Engineer for approval.  As quickly as the plans and specifications are approved, advertising for bids will be published.  Every effort will be made to complete the work before winter.

President Rea reported that representatives of the Federal Housing and Home Finance Agency visited the campus to discuss the loan application for the new women’s dormitory project.  As a result of the discussions, it was decided the project would be financed by the issuance of revenue bonds in the amount of $635,000, as a separate bond issue from that issued to finance the construction of existing student housing facilities.

It was also agreed to amend the bond resolution securing the bonds issued to finance construction of the two men’s dormitories, on women’s dormitory, three four-plex married student housing units and additions and revisions to the present Student Union to permit the inclusion of the new dormitory into the Fort Lewis A & M College housing system after sufficient time has expired and records maintained to establish historical earnings data on the new building.

It was further agreed the security for the new building loan will be a first lien on the net income from the rentals and will be additionally secured by a second lien on the income from the present Fort Lewis A & M revenue bond system.

September 15, 1961 Colorado State Board of Agriculture meeting

Upon motion and second, Board approval was granted for President Rea to contact the State Purchasing Agent and request permission to arrange for the installation of campus exterior lighting by purchase order.  If this effort is unsuccessful, Board authorization was granted to advertise for bids on the project and for the President of the Board to sign the contract for the work after bids are opened and the apparent low and best bidder is determined.

It was reported to the Board that there was only a single bid submitted for the Reservoir Rehabilitation project on the Hesperus campus.  Neilson’s, Inc. of Dolores, Colorado submitted a bid of $23,916.50 which exceeded the amount available for the project which has been reported to the Planning Division.  An amendatory request in the amount of $16,000 was to be included in the College’s Capital Construction Budget for Fiscal Year 1962-63.

October 20, 1961 Colorado State Board of Agriculture meeting

Upon motion and second, Board approval was granted for the President of the Board to sign the loan agreement with Federal Housing and Finance Agency.  However, before the loan agreement can be signed the Board is required to consider the loan agreement while meeting in regular session.  Consequently, formal approval of the loan application will be required before the President of the Board can sign the document.

With James Hunter, Architect, present the Board discussed preliminary architectural plans for new projects at Fort Lewis A & M College.  Upon motion and second, Board approval was granted for the plans for the following: the new women’s dormitory, the Science Wing of the Academic Building, remodeling the carport at the President’s home and for expansion and remodeling of the Student Center to accommodate and additional 136 diners.

Upon motion and second, the Board unanimously confirmed its position as stated in a letter dated September 21, 1961, to Representative James M French and Representative Roy R. Romer, and by this action acknowledged the prerogative of the General Assembly to make decisions regarding degree status of state supported institutions of higher learning.  The contents of the letter are as follows:

November 3, 1961 Colorado State Board of Agriculture meeting

State Board of Agriculture Member Mary Scott had attended the Committee on Education Beyond the High School meeting held on October 27 and 28, 1961.  She indicated that the question of degree status was discussed in detail at the Saturday meeting and a motion by Senator Charles Porter of Lewis, Colorado that the Committee recommend to the Legislature that Fort Lewis A & M College be granted degree status, was defeated by a vote of six votes against the motion and five votes for the motion.  President Rea reviewed the results of studies made by staff members to determine the future role of the college.  These studies do not indicate there is need for a terminal education program in the San Juan Basin, but support granting degree status for Fort Lewis A & M College.

Upon motion and second, the Board reaffirmed its position regarding degree status for Fort Lewis A & M College, approved at the meeting of the Board October 21, 1961, and stated in the letter dated September 21, 1961, to Representative James M. French and Representative Roy Romer.  The vote on the motion was six members for the motion with one against the motion.

December 13, 1961 Colorado State Board of Agriculture meeting

Attention of the Board was directed to drafts of two news releases regarding President Charles Dale Rea.  The releases were amended and action to approve them was delayed until copies of the revised statements were available for Board consideration.

By unanimous consent, the Board approved the following statement for release 12 Noon December 14, 1961:

“Fort Collins, Dec. 14 - - At a meeting yesterday of the State Board of Agriculture, governing Board of Fort Lewis A & M College, consideration was given allegations related to the purchase of a 1951 surplus college truck by the Fort Lewis A & M President, Charles Dale Rea, at a public sale.

The Board conducted a public hearing in Durango November 3, 1961, requested as official audit by a private firm, and conducted other investigatory procedures and concluded the allegations against Dr. Rea are not substantiated.”

Upon motion and second, the Board accepted the resignation of Charles Dale Rea as president of Fort Lewis A & M College, effective June 30, 1962.

By unanimous consent the Board approved the following statement for release at 12 Noon Friday, December 15, 1961, announcing the resignation of Charles Dale Rea as president of Fort Lewis A & M College:

President McGraw reported on receipt of a letter from H. E. Owen, Chairman, Faculty Assembly containing the following statement:

 

January 12, 1962 Colorado State Board of Agriculture meeting

State Board of Agriculture President McGraw appointed the Fort Lewis Committee to represent the Board in the selection of a new president of Fort Lewis A & M College.  This Committee and a faculty committee from Fort Lewis A & M College are assigned the responsibility of screening applications and recommending candidates for interview to the Board.

The Secretary read the report approved by the Fort Lewis Committee at its meeting January 11, 1962.  Following the reading of the report, the Board discussed each item in order that all members might have a clear understanding of the intent of the report.  Upon motion and second, the Board approved the following recommendations of the Committee:

1.          “The type of institution that will eventually evolve at Fort Lewis.  It is quite evident that the wishes and desires of the legislators and many others is a quality Liberal Arts degree granting institution, subject, of course, to approval by the State Board of Agriculture.  This does not preclude the use of the trimester program.  Interim transition of agricultural and vocational problems is also indicated.

2.          After this determination by the State Board of Agriculture, the Fort Lewis Committee working with Colorado State University advisors, a Fort Lewis Faculty Committee, and possibly other outside interests, may begin its selection work and processing methods in order to make final suggestions to the entire State Board of Agriculture regarding the selection of a new president by June 1962.

3.          The Fort Lewis Committee now recommends to the State Board of Agriculture that the North Central Association be immediately employed and authorized to start a comprehensive study, using existing pilot programs, plans, and available information to design a quality curriculum adaptable to the year-round education for a Liberal Arts degree granting college.  This would enable the North Central Association to correct the questions of administrative and educational deficiencies cited in the last report.  It is unnecessary to point out that the subject of accreditation is of utmost importance.  The money is being requested by the Chairman of the Joint Budget Committee ($100,000) for a four-year, degree-granting college at Durango in the present Legislative session.

4.          The Fort Lewis Committee recommends members of the State Board of Agriculture abstain and refrain by any official Board actions in the legislative disagreements most prevalent in the present legislature.  As a matter of interest, the citizens of Durango are raising a $10,000 war chest fund for an all-out effort to proceed with Fort Lewis’ status as a degree-granting institution.  The campaign will be sincere but intense and explosive.

5.          Even if moneys are appropriated through the action of the Joint Budget Committee, it will not be possible to use all of these funds until mid 1963 for the establishment of a degree-granting college.”

The Board approved the following news release regarding Fort Lewis A & M College by consent:

“The State Board of Agriculture today requested assistance from the North Central Association of Colleges and Secondary Schools in the preparation of a recommendation for the Board on an educational program and curriculum for Fort Lewis A & M College at Durango, Colorado.  The purpose of such action, according to David E. McGraw, President of the Board, is to provide a high quality academic program of Liberal Arts at this educational institution.”

 

February 16, 1962 Colorado State Board of Agriculture meeting

President of the Board David E. McGraw read a letter addressed to him dated February 13, 1962 from James M. French, Chairman of the Joint Budget Committee.  The contents of the letter are as follows:

Mr. Young, Chairman of the Fort Lewis Committee, reported the following Committee recommendations for the consideration of the Board:

1.          Agricultural Science not be offered as a major course of study but be retained as a two-year course.

2.          Management Engineering remains a two-year course and is identified as Industrial Management.

3.          Dr. Robert F. Sullivan, Dr. David Madsen, Dean A. G. Clark and President Rea are requested to give preliminary consideration to the curriculum and staff need of Fort Lewis A & M College.

Dr. Robert F. Sullivan, Associate Secretary and Dr. David Madsen, Assistant Secretary, of the North Central Association of Colleges and Secondary Schools; Andrew G. Clark, Dean of the Faculty of Colorado State University; and President Charles Dale Rea entered the meeting to discuss the role of the North Central Association in a study of Fort Lewis A & M College.  Dr. Sullivan explained the new program of the North Central Association for institutions seeking accreditation, and informed the Board the North Central Association would like to assist in the development of a self-study report and the planning of a senior college program for Fort Lewis A & M College.  In the discussion of degree status, Dr. Sullivan informed the Board that accreditation for the student beginning his junior year next September would not be possible until March 1963 at the earliest.

Upon Motion and second, Board approval was granted the following plan for the development of a self-study report and the planning of a senior college program in cooperation with the North Central Association:

1.          The North Central Association of College and Secondary Schools will assist in conducting the study and planning for the senior college program for Fort Lewis A & M College and will be reimbursed by the State Board of Agriculture for services rendered in the amount of approximately $3,600.

2.          President Charles Dale Rea will complete a proposed curriculum for the senior college program at Fort Lewis A & M College together with recommended staffing and will send this material to Dr. Sullivan.  The North Central Association will forward the material prepared by Dr. Rea to selected readers for comments and suggested changes.

3.          The North Central Association will provide a team of visitors and will schedule them to be on the Fort Lewis A & M College some time during the fall of 1962, probably in October.  The team of visitors, working with the State Board of Agriculture, the President, and Faculty of the College will develop a set of goals for the institution and prepare alternate plans for meeting the goals, based upon factors of financing, securing faculty, developing the Library, etc.  The result of this work will be presented to the Board in the form of a report.

Some time during the months of May and June 1963 the Board will submit a request to the North Central Association for an examination for preliminary accreditation.  Procedures established by the North Central Association for acquiring accreditation will be carried out thereafter.

State Board President McGraw reported the following names as those of a committee selected by the faculty of Fort Lewis A & M College to serve as the presidential selection committee: Dr. H. E. Owen, Chairman, Mr. Herbert Hart and Mr. Willard Bowman.

Members of the Board expressed interest in recommendations by selected presidents of educational institutions for candidates for the president’s position at Fort Lewis A & M College.  W. E. Morgan, President of Colorado State University, and the Secretary were asked to write letters to selected Presidents of Colleges and Universities to request names of persons recommended and qualified for the position.  As recommendations from the presidents are received, the Secretary was instructed to write to those individuals recommended and invite them to make application.  The following criteria for judging the qualifications of an applicant for the presidency of Fort Lewis A & M College were approved:

1.          The applicant need not be a resident of Colorado.

2.          He should have had somewhat comparable administrative experience to that required of the president of Fort Lewis A & M College.

3.          He should be middle-aged.

4.          An earned Ph.D. degree is preferred but not required.

5.          Wife should be adaptable to the local situation, which might be somewhat remote from that to which she is accustomed.

6.          He must have had experience in the area of liberal arts.

March 9, 1962 Governor McNichols signs House Bill No. 62

Governor Stephen L. R. McNichols signs House Bill No. 62 implementing the Trimester Course of Instruction, which allows Fort Lewis A & M College to award the Baccalaureate Degree in the presence of President Charles Dale Rea and State Board President David McGraw.  The contents of the bill is a follows:

Be it Enacted by the General Assembly of the State of Colorado:

SECTION 1.  In addition to any other moneys appropriated for the fiscal year beginning July 1, 1962, there is hereby appropriated for said fiscal year, out of any moneys in the state treasury not otherwise appropriated, to the state board of agriculture, for the Fort Lewis School, the sum of one hundred fifty thousand dollars ($150,000), or so much thereof as may be necessary, for additional expenses incurred by the board in offering a trimester course of instruction at said school and the granting of degrees for completion of the full course of instruction.

SECTION 2.  The general assembly hereby finds, determines, and declares that this act is necessary for the immediate preservation of the public peace, health, and safety.

 

March 31, 1962 Colorado State Board of Agriculture meeting

Members of the Architectural Firm of Langhart, McGuire and Hastings, entered the meeting to discuss with the Board the final working drawings and specifications for the women’s dormitory project.  Members of the Board reviewed the working drawings and specifications and informed the architects they will be expected to provide good supervision on this project.  Upon motion and second, Board approval for the working drawings and specifications was granted.

Bids for construction of the women’s dormitory project will be opened April 17, 1962.  The Executive Committee was authorized to approve the contract with the low bidder in order that there will be no delay in start of construction.

 

May 9, 1962 Colorado State Board of Agriculture meeting

Bids for the construction of the new women’s dormitory project were opened by the State Purchasing Agent April 24, 1962.  The results of the bids and alternates were reviewed by the Board.  Upon motion and second, the following were approved as the apparent lowest and best bids received for the project.  General Work - McGechie Construction Co. - bid of $429,500. (2) Mechanical Work – Brickham & Tomberlin – bid of $128,800. (3) Electrical – Mesa Electric Co. – bid of $47,700.  The total of all the bids for the project was $606,000.

At the March 31 meeting of the State Board of Agriculture, annual leave for Charles Dale Rea was discussed and Business Manager Daniel E. Black was instructed to report Dr. Rea’s annual leave record to the Secretary and to members of the Board.  Mr. Black provided members of the Board copies of a letter containing information regarding Dr. Rea’s leave status.  The contents of the letter are as follows:

Following Executive Session of the Board, State Board President McGraw informed Dr. Rea that the Board agreed to respect the 1952 leave policy for Fort Lewis A & M College and grant Dr. Rea two calendar months leave beyond June 30, 1962.  Dr. Rea then explained his personal situation and requested the Board to consider granting him leave for a period of time exceeding two months.  In this connection, he requested the Board to grant him sabbatical leave for a period of six months in lieu of accumulated annual leave, with the understanding approval of the request would be an exception to the sabbatical leave policy because he would not be returning to the institution.

Following another Executive Session, President McGraw informed Dr. Rea of the Board decision to deny the request for sabbatical leave and to make no change in its previous decision to grant him two months leave beyond June 30, 1962.  However, a final decision on this matter will be made at the next meeting of the Board.  President McGraw then informed Dr. Rea of action taken by the Board to relieve him of further responsibility and authority at Fort Lewis A & M College, effective May 21, 1962, and that he will be continued on full salary until June 30, 1962.  He was also informed that the Board will notify him of their decision regarding his leave status after June 30, 1962, when a final decision has been reached.  Dr. Rea was then informed of action taken by the Board in Executive Session March 30, 1962, to appoint Mr. Herbert Hart to serve as interim administrative officer of Fort Lewis A & M College effective May 21, 1962.

 

June 29, 1962 Colorado State Board of Agriculture meeting

Upon motion and second, Board approval was granted the following resolution for qualified approval of budget items for the 1962-63 fiscal year:

RESOLUTION

Whereas, the State Board of Agriculture has submitted an operating budget for Fort Lewis A & M College for the year 1962-63, and

Whereas, Fort Lewis A & M College has had an Acting President during the interim of the terms of Dr. Charles Dale Rea and the beginning of the administration of Dr. John F. Reed, and

Whereas, Dr. John F. Reed will, together with the State Board of Agriculture, approve and submit a finalized budget as soon as possible, however, not later than August 15, `962;

NOW THEREFORE BE IT RESOLVED

That from July 1, 1962, until the final budget is approved the operating budget as submitted will be in effect.

Results of the bid opening for the construction of a science wing to the Academic Building, which were opened by the State Purchasing Agent, were reported to the Board.  Upon motion and second, the McGechie Construction Co., of Cortez, Colorado was approved as the apparent lowest and best bidder and by this same motion the Board approved a contract with the McGechie Construction Co. in the amount of $398,000.

Upon motion and second, Board approval was given for the submittal of the capital construction budget for fiscal year 1963-64 to be submitted to the State Planning Division.  Some the projects included in the request were: (1) Library new construction of 44,000 sq ft and remodeling of existing space at $1,000,000. (2) Fine Arts Extension of 22,000 sq ft at $440,000, (3) Land Purchase of Picnic Grounds at $40,000 and Golf Course at $135,000. (4) Underground Sprinkler System at $100,000. (5) Physical Education Building of 40,000 sq ft at $800,000 ($48,000 was being requested for planning only).

Upon motion and second, the Board approved the employment of John F. Reed as consultant to the Fort Lewis A & M College for the period of May 21, 1962 through July 12, 1962 at a total fee of $2,025.  By this same motion the Secretary was instructed to write a letter requesting Governor NcNichols’ approval of Dr. Reed’s employment as a consultant.

 

June 29, 1962 Colorado State Board of Agriculture meeting – Executive Session.

Upon motion and second, the Board approved granting Charles Dale Rea two calendar months leave with pay beginning July 1, 1962 and ending August 31, 1962.

Upon motion and second, the Board approved payment of $1,000 additional salary to Mr. Herbert D. Hart for services rendered as Interim Administrative Officer at Fort Lewis College for the period, May 21, 1962 to July 12, 1962.

 

July 21, 1962 John F. Reed assumes the Presidency of Fort Lewis A & M College.

 

August 11, 1962 Colorado State Board of Agriculture meeting

The Board had previously granted permission to move and renovate a three bedroom frame house from the Hesperus campus to the Durango campus.  In the interim since approval was granted by the Board, the State Controller issued a ruling requiring that the College pay a fair value for the house from self-liquidating funds to the College General Fund.  The house was then offered for sale and on sealed bid in the amount of $1,609 was received.  The Controller agreed this was a fair price for the house and the transfer of funds from the self-liquidating account to the College General Fund was made.  Discussions between members of the College and State Planning Division resulted in the conclusion to not move the building.  This was based on the fact that the building does not conform to the architectural plan of the College and would not fit into the long range plan being prepared.  Upon motion and second, Board approval was given to move funds to the General Fund from the self-liquidating fund and, by this motion responsibility for the house was transferred from Fort Lewis A & M College to the Colorado Experimental Station.

The Executive Committee of the State Board of Agriculture considered problems associated with long-range planning at Fort Lewis A & M College and, on July 18 1962, approved employment of the Architectural firm of Mauck and Davidson, of Durango, for the preparation of a long range plan for the College.  Included in the agreement was that the architectural firm of Kistner, Wright and Wright, of Los Angeles, California, would be engaged as consultants on the project and it was further understood that the plans for the College will be prepared in sufficient detail before October 1 to support a capital budget request of the next session of the Legislature to finance an expanded library facility.  Upon motion and second, Board approved action taken by the Executive Committee where action was taken to hire the firm of Mauck and Davidson to prepare the plan.

Upon motion and second, Board approval was granted to request that the Federal Housing and Home Finance agency make an advance payment of money to pay current obligations relating to the Dormitory and Student Center project prior to the delivery and sale of revenue bonds.

Upon motion and second, the Board approved the following resolution regarding the designation of President John F. Reed as the Authorized Representative of the College in all matters relating to the Housing and Finance Agency:

RESOLUTION

BY THE STATE BOARD OF AGRICULTURE NAMING

DR. JOHN F. REED, PRESIDENT OF FORT LEWIS A & M COLLEGE,

AS THE AUTHORIZED REPRESENTATIVE

Whereas, Dr. Charles Dale Rea was the Designated Representative of Fort Lewis A & M College with Housing and Home Finance Agency; and

Whereas, Dr. Charles Dale Rea is no longer with the College; and

Whereas, the Regional Director of Housing and Home Finance Agency has requested that an Authorized Representative be named;

Therefore, Be it resolved by the State Board of Agriculture that Dr. John F. Reed, President of Fort Lewis A & M College; be named to serve as the Authorized Representative of the College in all matters relating to Housing and Home Finance Agency and, more particularly, for Project No. CH-Colo-51 (D), Fort Lewis A & M College, Dormitory and Dining Facilities.

 

August 20, 1962 letter from President John F. Reed to Everett K. Weedin, Chief, Land Adjudication Section, Bureau of Land Management

 

September 21, 1962 Colorado State Board of Agriculture meeting

Upon motion and second, the Board approved the capital construction budget request for fiscal year 1963-64.  One item in the request was for $334,500 for land purchase.  The explanation in the agenda item is as follows:

In order to provide for normal and orderly growth of the campus, it is necessary to provide land for the expansion of the physical plant planned in the immediate future as well as providing land for the growth of the College at least for the next twenty years.  The dollar amount set forth herein provides for acquisition of the picnic grounds area, the city reservoir site and the two ¼ by 1/4 sections now used by the Durango Municipal Golf Association.  It would be well to examine the feasibility and practicality of obtaining in addition to the land described above, a buffer zone extending a ¼ - ¼ section on the north and east sides of the campus.  There is also contained in this request for land purchase, the first section of land to be acquired from the Bureau of Land Management, negotiations for which are now underway.  Upon motion and second, Board approval was granted for President Reed to negotiate options to purchase land as needed for campus development at Fort Lewis A & M College.

President Reed discussed action taken by the Board at its August 11, 1962 meeting calling for the preparation of plans for the installation of the president of Fort Lewis A & M College.  In his discussion, President Reed indicated there are compelling reasons for delaying the installation and presented an alternative proposal.  The alternative would be to hold a symposium next spring on the Fort Lewis A & M College campus during which the discussion of year-round education would take place.  President Reed proposed to invite nationally recognized educators to participate in the program and to explore the possibilities of obtaining assistance and financing of the symposium from private foundations or possibly the Federal Government.  Upon motion and second, the Board approval was granted to delay the inauguration of the president of Fort Lewis A & M College and to make plans for holding the symposium as outlined by President Reed during the coming Spring at Fort Lewis A & M College.

Upon motion and second, Board approval was granted a contract with James M. Hunter, for the preparation of preliminary architectural services and supervision of associate architects as needed by Fort Lewis A & M College for a five-year period ending December 31,1967

October 19, 1962 Colorado State Board of Agriculture meeting

Board President McGraw reported that portion of the long-range plan prepared thus far for Fort Lewis A & M College was presented to members of the City Council and other selected members of the Durango community as a means of informing then of the College plans.  It now appears advisable to take up options on privately owned land in the vicinity of the golf course as soon as possible.  Eighty to one hundred acres of privately owned land are required.  However, it may be necessary to purchase as much as 160 acres to get the land required for campus development.  While the need to take up the options on these lands is urgent, the College is without funds to pay for them.  Consequently, means of financing the purchase of options was discussed but no conclusions were reached.

 

November 12, 1962 Colorado State Board of Agriculture meeting

Upon motion and second, the Board approved the following items required to complete negotiations to finance construction of a new women’s dormitory at Fort Lewis A & M College.

1.          Resolution approving the loan agreement with the United States of America, Project CH-Colo-51 (D).

2.          An amendatory loan agreement with the United States of America for the above-mentioned project.

3.          Resolution authorizing the issuance of Fort Lewis Agricultural and Mechanical College single and coupon bonds designated Student Housing System Revenue Bonds of 1962, Series A, in the amount of $754,000, and Series B in the amount of $507,000 for the purpose of refunding and exchanging said bonds for its outstanding bonds totaling $1,261,000: and authorizing the issuance of its single and coupon Student Housing System Revenue Bonds of 1962, Series C in the amount of $635,000 for the purpose of constructing a new dormitory for approximately 192 women students.

 

January 7, 1963 Colorado State Board of Agriculture meeting

Upon motion and second, Board approval was granted for Fort Lewis A & M College to request an advance payment in the amount of $380,000 from the loan authorized by the Federal Housing and Home Finance Agency to finance construction of new women’s dormitory.

 

February 15, 1963 Colorado State Board of Agriculture meeting

Upon motion and second, approval was granted for Fort Lewis A & M College to request an advance payment in the amount of $96,250 from the loan authorized by the Federal Housing and Home Finance Agency to finance a new women’s dormitory. 

In the appropriation request, presented to the Joint Budget Committee of the General Assembly, there is an item calling for the purchase of land located adjacent to the campus for campus expansion.  The Joint Budget Committee has indicated a reluctance to appropriate the full amount requested to complete this transaction.  Consequently, other alternatives to provide a means of financing such a purchase have been explored.  Boettcher and Company, of Denver has agreed to increase the bond issue authorization by the Board as a means of financing the land purchase.  Upon motion and second, authorization was granted to increase the bond issue negotiated from $75,000 to no more than $125,000, and to use $45,000 of this amount to be applied toward the purchase of land located adjacent to the Fort Lewis A & M College.  The remaining amount to be used on the dormitory project.

 

March 15, 1963 Colorado State Board of Agriculture meeting

Upon motion and second, the Board approved the bid of Desks Inc., of Denver, Colorado, as the best bid for supplying furnishings for the new women’s dormitory, and authorized the approval of a contract in the amount of  $47,596, for supplying and installing the furnishings in the dormitory.

Upon motion and second, the Board approved the recommendation that $45,000 be reserved from the Revenue Bond Series April 1, 1963, to be used for the purchase of land at Fort Lewis A & M College.

 

April 12, 1963 Colorado State Board of Agriculture meeting

Upon motion and second, the Board approved the submission of a project application to the State Planning Division for the use of funds with which to prepare plans for the Library Building to be financed from the appropriation for Fort Lewis A & M College approved by the First Session of the Forty-Fourth General Assembly.

Upon motion and second, the Board approved the submission of a project application to the State Planning Division for the purchase of land with funds provided by the First Session of the Forty-Fourth General Assembly.

 

August 9, 1963 Colorado State Board of Agriculture meeting

President Reed reported that $40,000 had been appropriated to the College for the purchase of land.  Negotiations have been underway with the City of Durango to purchase the reservoir site located adjacent to the campus, purchase of peripheral area around the golf course (containing approximately ten acres) and for the purchase of the area located south and east of the campus identified as the ‘picnic grounds”.  The appraised value of these properties is approximately $50,220.  Upon motion and second, the Board approved the submittal to the City of Durango, by President Reed, an offer of $39,775 for the purchase of the three sites.

Upon motion and second, the Board approved the submission of the construction phase of the Library Building ($1,195,200), Land Purchase from Bureau of Land Management ($3,000), Physical Plant & Shop Complex (planning funds of $15,000), Physical Education Building Expansion (planning funds of $16,000), Utility and Site survey ($20,000) and Campus Improvements ($71,500) for a total of  $1,320,700 as the College’s request for funding for Fiscal Year 1964-65 to the State Planning Division and to the State Budget Office.

 

September 21, 1963 Colorado State Board of Agriculture meeting

The budget request for the purchase of land had been for a total of $334,500 for the purchase of the picnic grounds, the golf course area and the reservoir site.  With the appropriation of $40,000 to the College it was apparent that the three parcels could not be bought for that amount.  Before proceeding with the negotiations with the City of Durango the Board felt the matter of preparing a contract should be discussed with the Attorney General.  As a result of the conference Mr. Dunbar, Attorney General, arrived at the following decision:  “It is my conclusion that the expenditure is not authorized if the purchase would result in acquiring only a portion of that recommended by the State Planning Division.”  Mr. Dunbar further explained that since the recommendation of the state Planning Division was not specific in identifying the parcels of land to be purchased, the Board would have to purchase all three parcels.  Otherwise, the money could not be legally spent for the purchase of any of the land.  Upon motion and second, approval was given for the Secretary and President Reed to request the Governor to include in his call for the Second Session of the 44^th General Assembly a request to authorize the use the $40,000 having been appropriated to purchase the picnic grounds and the reservoir site.

The capital construction request approved for the College at the August 9^th meeting contained an item of $3,000 for the purchase of land from the Bureau of Land Management.  The request for additional funds was not included because of the need for additional discussions with the City of Durango regarding the availability of land.  Upon motion and second, approval was given to include $211,330 in the capital construction request for land acquisition making a total of $214,330.  This would be $3,000 for purchase from the B.L.M., $94,300 for purchase of golf course improvements and $117,000 for purchase of golf course at appraised value.

 

October 11, 1963 Colorado State Board of Agriculture meeting

After the September 21, 1963 meeting an error of $1,600 in the analysis of the appraised value of the land was discovered.  Consequently, a complete revision of the request for funds with which to purchase land was required.  Upon motion and second, the Board approved the following as the revised item included in the capital construction budget request for land acquisition for the fiscal year 1964-65:  Land from City of Durango (95.97 acres) - $123,430, Golf course improvements from City of Durango - $89,500, and from the Bureau of Land Management - $3,000 for a total of $215,930.

Upon motion and second, the Board approved a resolution stating the Board’s opposition to the recommendation of the Legislative Committee on Education Beyond the High School that Fort Lewis A & M College be transferred from the jurisdiction of the State Board of Agriculture to the Board of Trustees of State Colleges in Colorado.

 

November 1, 1963 Colorado State Board of Agriculture meeting

Upon motion and second, the Board approved a contract with James M. Hunter and Associates, Architects, for the preparation of preliminary plans and specifications, working drawings, and supervision of construction of the Library-Classroom Building on the Fort Lewis A & M campus.

 

December 11, 1963 Colorado State Board of Agriculture meeting

Upon motion and second, Board approval was granted to defer action on the report prepared by the committee appointed to consider names for residence halls at Fort Lewis A & M College until the next meeting.  By the same motion the Secretary was directed to inform the committee members of this action and to express the appreciation of the Board for their efforts on this assignment.

President Reed reported preliminary plans are underway for the construction of a new residence hall for men on the Fort Lewis A & M College campus.  The plans are somewhat indefinite because of the need to make a final decision on the location of the building and to identify the additional functions which will be housed in the new residence hall.  President Reed reported it is his intention to bring definite recommendations for this facility to the Board at its January meeting.

Mr. James Hunter, Architect, discussed the preliminary plans for the Library Classroom Building with the Board.  He directed the attention to the need for a decision on the location of the building and presented three alternatives:

1.          Scheme A calls for the building to be located in the parking lot in the vicinity of the Gymnasium and the residence halls.

2.          Scheme B would locate the building on the perimeter of the golf course.

3.          Scheme C would be the same as Scheme B except that the building would be set facing toward the Academic Building.

Upon motion and second, the Board approved locating the Library-Classroom building on the perimeter of the golf course as described in Scheme C.

Mr. Hunter discussed copies of the preliminary plans for the Library-Classroom Building at Fort Lewis A & M College.  In this discussion he explained that plans called for doubling the capacity of the heating plant in the building in order to make it possible for this unit to provide heat and air conditioning to another building which will be constructed in the general area of the Library-Classroom Building.

 

January 17, 1964 Colorado State Board of Agriculture meeting

It was reported that the Governor did not include the item relating to the purchase of land, which had been requested by the Board upon action during the September 21, 1963 meeting.  This was due to fact that there was a difference of opinion among leaders of the majority party in the legislature about the total land acquisition program for the College.  Furthermore, it became apparent that the matter could possibly be handled as a budget item through action of the Joint Budget Committee and thereby, eliminate the necessity of the Governor dealing with it in his message.  Upon motion and second, the Board approved the following resolution:

WHEREAS, the land identified as Parcel 2, known as the golf course, and Parcel 1, known as the picnic grounds, are urgently needed for the orderly development of the Fort Lewis A & M College campus, and

WHEREAS, the City of Durango has granted the State Board of Agriculture as option for the picnic grounds area and a fringe area of the golf course at a price of $29,775.00, and

WHEREAS, the Chairman of the Joint Budget Committee of the Colorado General Assembly feels efforts should be made to purchase the entire acreage of land in question, and

WHEREAS, further negotiations are required to complete the entire transaction,

NOW, THEREFORE, Be it Resolved by the State Board of Agriculture in regular session assembled that the Joint Budget Committee and the General Assembly be requested to approve two bills as follows:

1.          To approve $29,775.00 for the purchase of 32.6 acres, included in the picnic grounds and fringe area of the golf course, and

2.          To appropriate $87,664.00 for the purchase of 95.97 acres now contained in the golf course area:

AND BE IT FURTHER RESOLVED that the purchase of these two parcels of land be completed with the understanding the provisions of the now existing lease between the City of Durango and the Durango Municipal Recreation, Inc. will continue in force after the title is transferred to the State Board of Agriculture.  And, by this same motion, Board Members Mr. Enstrom and Mr. Pearson and the Secretary were instructed to meet with Representative John Vanderhoof, Speaker of the House, and with Representative Oakley Wade, Chairman of the Joint Budget Committee, t discuss the above resolution.

Upon motion and second, the Board granted authorization for the submission of a loan application to the Federal Housing and Home Finance Agency for construction of a new men’s dormitory on the campus with two alternatives.  (1) If it is impossible to locate it on the site identified as the picnic grounds, construction plans are to be revised to reduce the size of the building so that a loan application be made in the amount of $600,000 and it would be located on the northwest corner of the existing housing quadrangle.  (2) In the event additional land area is acquired, plans for the building would provide accommodations for 300 students and will include dining hall, kitchen facilities and student health facilities and the loan application be submitted in the amount of $1,400,000.

Upon motion and second, the Board approved the recommendation of the committee appointed to select names for residence halls at Fort Lewis College to name dormitories for deceased personalities and to approve the following names: Dormitory B – Snyder, Dormitory C – Crofton, Dormitory D – Mears, Dormitory E – Escalante, Dormitory F – Palmer and Dormitory G – Cooper.

 

February 14, 1964 Colorado State Board of Agriculture meeting

Upon motion and second, the Board approval was granted to name the next dormitory, which would appear as “H” in the series, “Bader Hall” in honor of the former Dean of the Fort Lewis School and to name the one constructed next in line, “Philip H. Sheridan Hall”.

President Reed reported a loan application is being prepared for submission in the amount of $1,400,000 for the construction of a 300 unit men’s dormitory hall, including the necessary dining facilities, to be known as Bader Hall.

President Reed reported that the first Baccalaureate degree commencement to be held at Fort Lewis College is scheduled on Sunday, April 19, 1964, in Durango, Colorado, and extended an invitation to Board members for the occasion.

 

March 6, 1964 Colorado State Board of Agriculture meeting

SECTION II – FISCAL ITEMS; 2. Project 1065 – Land Acquisition (SBA Board Agenda item)

House Bill 1083 has been passed by both houses of the Colorado General Assembly and is now waiting approval by Governor Love.  This bill is an amendment to the Long Appropriation Bill *HB 484) passed by the 1^st Session of the 44^th General Assembly.  HB 1083 provides for an increase in the amounts available for land purchase from $40,000 to $80,000.  It also describes by metes and bounds, the land to be purchased from the City of Durango (128.57 acres) with the immediate acquisition of the 32.6 acres need for locating the new library and eventually new dormitories

Upon motion and second, Board approval was granted for the submission of a project application to the Colorado State Planning Division for the purchase of the area identified as the picnic grounds, containing approximately 32.6 acres, and the area identified as the golf course, both which contain a total of approximately 128.57 acres, at a purchase price of $80,000 from the City of Durango.

 

April 18-19, 1964 Colorado State Board of Agriculture meeting

Mr. James Hunter, Architect, was present to discuss architectural plans for the Library / Classroom Building.  Initially, plans called for construction of a building to cost $1,400,000.  The Legislature approved the construction of a building at a total cost of $1,000,000.  In this connection, the Legislature appropriated only $660,000 and indicated the remainder needed to complete financing would come from Federal Facilities Act money.  This required the revision of the building plans.  Upon motion and second, the Board approved revisions which would remove two bays from the stack area of the building, leave space originally planned in the corner of the main part of the building in the plans and to excavate for basement area under the entire building.

Board Member Mr. McGraw presented a review of the land acquisition problem at Fort Lewis College relating to the acquisition of the reservoir site.  The Board has continued negotiations with City Council for the purchase of the land until the City informed the Board that the site would be continued for purposes of the reservoir for an indefinite period of time.  Continuation of the reservoir was prompted because of the need for the reservoir to maintain the continuous functioning of the city water system even after completion of the new reservoir.  Thus the Board was left with the immediate impression that when the City solved the problem relating to the use of the old reservoir, the site would be available to the Board for purchase.  Mr. McGraw further reported that Mr. Rex Howell, owner of a radio and TV station in Grand Junction, Colorado, had recently discussed the acquisition of the reservoir site with the City Council and in this connection had asked for a lease on the site for purpose of constructing a facility to accommodate a television station.  Upon motion and second, the Board approved a letter to be mailed to the City Council of Durango, Colorado expressing the views of the Board in this matter.

Daniel E. Black, Business Manager of Fort Lewis College, reported Edward C. Kennedy, landowner, whose property is located in the vicinity of the San Juan Branch station, at Hesperus, Colorado, filed a petition in the La Plata County Court asking approval for a change in the point of diversion of water for the Brown (or Arlington) Ditch from the La Plata River.  Public notice of the hearing appeared in the paper in Durango, following which Mr. Black notified the Secretary of the action that had been taken.

The Secretary discussed the problem with Attorney General Duke Dunbar and Mr. Dunbar appointed Frederick Emigh, an Attorney at Law, of Durango, Colorado, to serve as Special Assistant Attorney General in the matter.  Mr. Emigh filed an answer and protest on behalf of the State Board of Agriculture in the La Plata County Court against the petition filed by Mr. Kennedy.  The hearing originally scheduled for the petition was to have taken place March 26, 1964: however, because of a trial currently in progress in the District Court, the hearing was postponed and no new hearing had been scheduled.  Upon motion and second, the Board approved action taken by Mr. Emigh to file an answer and protest to the petition entered in the La Plata County Court by Edward C. Kennedy, of Hesperus, Colorado requesting a change in a point of diversion of the Brown (or Arlington) Ditch from the La Plata River.

 

April 18, 1964 letter from C. Clarence Waneka, President, State Board of Agriculture to R. E. O’Brien, Mayor, City of Durango

 

May 13, 1964 Colorado State Board of Agriculture meeting

President Reed reported that the name of the institution is now officially Fort Lewis College.  Upon the recommendation of Governor John A. Love and by action of the second session of the Forty-Fourth Colorado General Assembly, the following Legislation was introduced and passed:

By Representative Wyatt                                          House Bill No. 1041

Education

A BILL FOR AN ACT

Changing the name of “The Fort Lewis School” to the “Fort Lewis College”

Be it Enacted by the General Assembly of the State of Colorado:

Section 1.     Name of School Changed.  The Fort Lewis School at Durango, Colorado, Colorado, Declared to be an institution of the State by Section 124-14-2, CRS 1953, shall hereafter be designated under the name and title of the “Fort Lewis College”; provided, that the legal effect of any statute heretofore designated such institution by any other name, or any property rights heretofore acquired and obligated heretofore incurred under any other name, shall not be impaired hereby.

Section 2.     Effective Date.  This act shall take effect on April 1, 1964.

Section #.     Safety Clause.  The General Assembly hereby finds, determines, and declares that this act is necessary for the immediate preservation of the public peace, health and safety.

 

May 19, 1964 option to purchase golf course property – “Irrigation Water Section”

1.          It is mutually agreed that the City is under obligation to Durango Municipal Recreation, Inc. to furnish water for irrigation to the golf course located upon the property described in the above mentioned leases and the City hereby agrees that it will continue to furnish water for the irrigation of said golf course as provided in said leases and that the Board will be under no obligation to furnish said water.

2.          It is understood and agreed that the City has a limited supply of treated water; that is, water that has been purified by chlorination and processed through its filter plant.  The City water supply at present is the only source of water for Fort Lewis College and the golf course and all lands being sold to the Board.  The City does, however, have a supply of untreated water which is available and can be used for irrigation, but not for human consumption.  It is, therefore, agreed that, if the Board or Fort Lewis College or the users of the land described in the Option to Purchase dated October 8, 1963 and containing 32,6 acres of land, use City water for irrigation of said land, only untreated water as opposed to treated water will be used.

3.          It is further agreed that the City now irrigates that part of the land referred to in paragraph 1 above, being the golf course, with untreated water.  It is further agreed that, if the Board or successors or assigns uses City water for its water supply to irrigate said lands, it will do so with untreated water as opposed to treated water, as already defined herein.

 

June 19, 1964 Colorado State Board of Agriculture meeting

Upon motion and second, the Board acknowledged receipt of a gift from Mr. And Mrs. Arthur Ballantine, Jr., of Durango, Colorado in the form of 100 shares of American Home Products Corp. stock and 25 shares of Continental Oil Co. stock for the establishment of the Center for Southwest Studies at Fort Lewis College.  Upon motion and second, they approved the preparation of a letter of appreciation addressed to Mr. And Mrs. Ballantine for the generous gift presented the College in support of the Center for Southwest Studies.

Upon motion and second, it was approved for the Secretary to sign documents required to complete the acceptance, sale of deposit of negotiable instruments received as gifts by Fort Lewis College in order that the proceeds by available for use in accordance with the intent of donor.

Upon motion and second, the Board approved for the receipt of $10,000 received as a gift from Arthur A. Ballantine, Jr. and Morley C. Ballantine to be used to establish the Center for Southwest Studies at the College; and, by same motion approved use of this gift at the rate of $5,000 per year for salary in each of the next two year.

Upon motion and second, the title of Robert Delaney, Professor of History was changed to Professor of History and Southwest Studies, and during each of the next two year $5,000 of his annual salary will be paid from the Center for Southwest Studies fund.

Secretary Terrell explained the recent circumstance regarding the acquisition of the land adjacent to the Fort Lewis Campus, which is being purchased from the City of Durango.  The Attorney General has reviewed the abstracts and has presented the Board a favorable title opinion.  It is now necessary to obtain a deed from City Attorney Emigh to conform to the terms of the option.  President Reed will secure the deed from Mr. Emigh; will send it to the Secretary, who will transmit it to the Attorney General.  The Attorney General will then forward the State Warrant to Dr. Reed for presentation to the City as full payment for the purchase of the golf course and the picnic grounds.

 

June 23, 1964 City of Durango sells picnic grounds site of State Board of Agriculture

This Deed, made this 23^rd day of June in the year of our Lord one thousand nine hundred and sixty-four, between the City of Durango, a Municipal Corporation, a corporation duly organized and existing under and virtue of the laws of the State of Colorado, of the first part, and the State Board of Agriculture, a corporation duly organized and existing under and by virtue of the laws of the State of Colorado, of the second part; Witnesseth, That the said party of the first part, for and in consideration of the sum of Forty-Five Thousand Two Hundred and 00/100 to the said party of the first part in had paid by the said party of the second part, the receipt whereof is hereby confessed and acknowledged, hath granted, bargained, sold and conveyed, and by these present doth grant, bargain, sell, convey and confirm unto the said party of the second part, its successors and assigns forever, all the following described lots of parcels of land, situate, lying and being in the County of La Plata and State of Colorado, to-wit: (Contains full metes and bounds description containing 32,6 acres more or less)

Except and Reserving, However, unto the City of Durango and its assigns an easement for an existing road right of way as the same is now constructed over and across the above described property to allow the City and its assigns access to lands under lease to Durango Municipal Recreation, Inc., a Colorado Corporation.  Said lands are being used for a golf course and, if and when said lease is cancelled, then this easement shall terminate.  Also Reserving, unto the City of Durango and its assigns rights of way for existing pipelines lying in, under and upon the property herein described together with the right of access thereto for the purpose of maintaining the same or for the use of placing additional pipelines in the same rights of way.

The Warranty Deed was filed under Reception No. 328930 on August 14, 1964.

 

June 23, 1964 City of Durango golf course site of State Board of Agriculture

This Deed, made this 23^rd day of June in the year of our Lord one thousand nine hundred and sixty-four, between the City of Durango, a Municipal Corporation, a corporation duly organized and existing under and virtue of the laws of the State of Colorado, of the first part, and the State Board of Agriculture, a corporation duly organized and existing under and by virtue of the laws of the State of Colorado, of the second part; Witnesseth, That the said party of the first part, for and in consideration of the sum of  Thirty-four Thousand Seven Hundred Seventy-five and 00/100 to the said party of the first part in had paid by the said party of the second part, the receipt whereof is hereby confessed and acknowledged, hath granted, bargained, sold and conveyed, and by these present doth grant, bargain, sell, convey and confirm unto the said party of the second part, its successors and assigns forever, all the following described lots of parcels of land, situate, lying and being in the County of La Plata and State of Colorado, to-wit: (Contains full meets and bounds description containing 95.97 acres more or less)

Except and Reserving, However, unto the City of Durango and its assigns an easement for an existing road right of way as the same is now constructed over and across the above described property to allow the City and its assigns access to lands under lease to Durango Municipal Recreation, Inc., a Colorado Corporation.  Said lands are being used for a golf course and, if and when said lease is cancelled, then this easement shall terminate.  Also Reserving, unto the City of Durango and its assigns rights of way for existing pipelines lying in, under and upon the property herein described together with the right of access thereto for the purpose of maintaining the same or for the use of placing additional pipelines in the same rights of way.

The Warranty Deed was filed under Reception No. 328931 on August 14, 1964.

 

August 14, 1964 Colorado State Board of Agriculture meeting

Mr. James Hunter, Architect, and Mr. Robert Bruce, Librarian for the College presented plans for review by the board for the Library-Classroom Building.  Upon motion and second, the Board approved the Library plans and specifications for Phases I and II as defined in the Architect’s contract and by the same motion authorized Mr. Hunter to proceed with the preparation of plans and specifications for this facility including a full basement at a cost of $1,040,000.

By consent, the Board agreed to identify the area to be purchased from the City of Durango, known as the picnic grounds, as the East Campus.

Mr. Melvin Flock, President of the Durango City Council; Council Members John Hunt, Carl Bell, and R. E. O’Brien; City Manager Robert Rank; and City Attorney Fred Emigh were guests of the Board at a luncheon.  Following the luncheon, President Waneka presented Mr. Melvin Flock a check in the amount of $80,000 in return for deeds to the two parcels of land identified as the East Campus (picnic grounds containing 32.6 acres and the golf course containing 95.97 acres).  This meeting climaxed negotiations extending over many months for the purchase of these two parcels of land urgently needed for campus expansion.

 

September 26, 1964 Colorado State Board of Agriculture meeting

On September 3, 1964, President Reed, Daniel E. Black, Business Manager, J. M. Whalley, Treasurer, C. L. Terrell, Secretary and James Hunter, Architect, met with the Director and Staff of the State Planning Division to present plans for the Library-Classroom Building.  At the conclusion of the meeting, President Reed requested prompt attention to review by the Staff because of the urgency of getting on with the working drawings for the project.

On September 23, 1964 a letter was received from Mr. William M. Williams, Director of the State Planning Division containing a list of four recommendations for the project, which are as follows:

1.          That library stack space not be completed for more than 60,000 volumes at this time.  (This would amount to 30 books for each of 2,000 students.  The 60,000 total would exceed by 10,000 the minimum of 50,000 volumes recommended for any college by the Association of Higher Education Institutions in Colorado)

2.          That the basement area be designed to provide approximately 8,000 sq ft of additional classroom space, and that bids on this additional finished area be taken as an additive alternate.

3.          That site development, landscaping, walks, roadways, and needed utility connections be financed from the $1,040,000 to be provided for the project.

4.          That the Architect proceeds to complete the working drawings and specifications based on recommendations numbered 1, 2 and 3 above.

Upon motion and second, the Secretary was instructed to communicate with the Director of the Planning Division that the Board had not approved the recommendations and that the Board intended to direct the architect to proceed with the preparation of plans and specifications as provided in phase 3 of the architect’s contract.  By the same motion the Secretary was instructed to discuss this with the Attorney General before sending the letter.

On September 10, 1964, President Reed received a letter from Mr. Frank H. Maxwell, Secretary of the Hillcrest Municipal Golf Course of Durango, Colorado, with a check in the amount of $10.00 attached.  The check represented payment of the annual lease on the land now being used for the golf course through 1977, since the Club had previously paid the City rent through 1967.  Upon motion and second, the Board instructed the Secretary to return the check to Mr. Maxwell and to inform the Golf Club that the lease payments should be made on an annual basis, as specified in the lease agreement.

 

November 6, 1964 Colorado State Board of Agriculture meeting

President Reed reported a representative of the Silverton, City Council proposed an arrangement between the Council and the College whereby 137 acres of land, including Molas Lake, located on the main highway between Durango and Silverton, Colorado, be used by the College as a high altitude biological study area.  Conditions of the offer were not specific because of the fact the proposition was presented as a means of determining whether or not such an arrangement might be possible or desirable.  The Board discussed possible uses of the land and recognized many complications exist.  In this connection, the Board agreed it would be impractical try to develop some means of using the land either as a part of the academic program of Fort Lewis College or as a part of the program of the Colorado Agricultural Experiment Station.  Upon motion and second, did not approve the proposal for use of the land offered by the City Council of the City of Silverton and by this motion requested that President Reed to correspond with the City Council and advise them of the Board’s action and to express the Board’s thanks for the consideration given to Fort Lewis College.

SECTION IV – REPORTS (SBA Agenda Item 12, Advance Payment from Hillcrest Municipal Golf Course)

Despite Mr. Terrell’s having advised the Secretary of the Hillcrest Municipal Golf Course that the “Board concluded the lease payment should be made on a year-to-year basis as the lease specifies and not made in advance”, when he returned the check in the amount of $10.00 following the last Board meeting, I received a check in the amount of $1.00 for the rental for one year two days after Mr. Terrell’s letter was written.  Since this dollar, if accepted by the Board, constitutes the rental for the year 1968; it was forwarded to Mr. Terrell who has returned it to the Hillcrest Golf Course with notification that the next annual rental payment will be due in 1968.

 

December 10, 1964 Colorado State Board of Agriculture meeting

Mr. James Hunter, Architect, discussed plans for the installation of tile flooring and wood paneling in the room for Southwest Studies to be located in the Library-Classroom Building.  Mr. Hunter requested Board approval to obtain special tile flooring made in Monterey, Mexico.  The desired tile is made in the same way and the same design as was used during the period of exploration in the southwest part of the United States.  In addition permission was requested to have wood paneling sawed and designed to match the décor of the flooring.  Upon motion and second, the requests were approved with the understanding the cost incurred in the acquisition of the tile and paneling not exceed an amount normally charged for tile flooring and wood paneling for such a room.

Mr. Hunter further proposed plans for the decorative scheme of the room for Southwest Studies.  In this connection, he offered to design a mosaic tile map, at no cost to the Board, which would portray the historical development of the southwestern United States.  Mr. Hunter described a plan to place decorative tile on a railing leading to the room containing several crests or coats-of arms indicating the history of the ownership of the land in the southwest portion of the United States.  These coats-of-arms would represent the families to whom the Spanish Land Grants were made by the King of Spain.  Upon motion and second, the Board approved proceeding with the design with the understanding that costs involved will not exceed those normally paid for the installation of tile wall covering for such rooms and on such railing.

 

January 22, 1965 Colorado State Board of Agriculture meeting

In 1955, the Board granted an easement to the Southern Union Gas Co. for installation of a four-inch high-pressure gas line across the eastern perimeter of the Fort Lewis campus.  With the proposed expansion of the campus to the east, onto land recently purchased from the City of Durango, this high-pressure gas line is located in the approximate center of the expanded campus and runs within ten feet of the Library-Classroom Building.  The line in its present location cannot continue to serve as a high-pressure line because of code restrictions.  Upon Motion and second, the Board approval was granted for the President to negotiate with the gas company to move the main meter serving the College and encourage the company to construct a new high-pressure line along the perimeter of the campus and to request the company sell the existing line to the College to be used as part of the gas distribution system at the approximate cost of $8,500.  By this same motion the President was authorized to submit a project application to the State Planning Division for the use of unallocated building mill levy funds remaining to the credit of the College for this project.

 

February 25, 1965 Colorado State Board of Agriculture meeting

The President reported to the Board that the City of Durango has, for the past several years, leased that portion of the East Campus, formerly known as the picnic grounds, to the Junior Chamber of Commerce for the use of the picnic and campsite during the summer season.  The Junior Chamber of Commerce has requested permission to use the site again during the summer of 1965.  Upon motion and second, approval was granted to lease that portion of the East Campus, known as the picnic grounds, to the Durango Junior Chamber of Commerce to be used as a picnic and camp site during the summer of 1965, with the understanding supervision, maintenance, and operation of the picnic and camp site, including police protection, will be provided at no cost to the College.

 

March 26, 1965 Colorado State Board of Agriculture meeting

It was reported that negotiations with the Southern Union Gas Co., which were authorized during the January 22, 1965 meeting had progressed to the point where the gas company has agreed to sell its line and some associated equipment to the College at a price of $6,728.31.  Upon Motion and second, approval was granted for the preparation of a contract between the Southern Union Gas Company and the State Board of Agriculture for the purchase of the gas line at a price of $6,728.31.

 

April 22, 1965 State Board of Agriculture Executive Committee meeting

James Hunter, Architect, explained the pre-preliminary plans prepared by his firm for submission with the application for construction funds to the Federal Housing and home Finance Agency.  Upon motion and second, the Executive Committee approved the submission of the plans prepared by James M. Hunter and Associates as supporting information for the application for Federal Funds with which to construct the Dormitory-Student Center project.

Upon motion and second, the Executive Committee approved increasing the request for Federal funds with which to construct the Dormitory-Student Center project from $1,400.000 to $1,600,000.

 

May 11, 1965 Colorado State Board of Agriculture meeting

Upon motion and second, the Board directed that the opening of bids for the construction of the Library-Classroom Building on the Fort Lewis College campus be held in Denver, Colorado, at a time to be determined upon final approval of the plans and specifications for the building.

Upon motion and second, Board approval was granted for the Executive Committee of the State Board of Agriculture to determine the dates for advertising for bids and for the opening of bids for the construction of the Library-Classroom Building at Fort Lewis College.

 

June 18, 1965 Colorado State Board of Agriculture meeting

Representative Pat O’Brien and Mr. Graeme McGowan, representing A.C. Flaugh Construction Co. of Cortez entered the meeting to request the Board to open bids for the Library-Classroom Building in Durango rather than in Denver.  Mr. O’Brien introduced Mr. McGowan who informed the Board that he was present speaking on behalf of the local contractors in the San Juan Basin area to request the Board to reconsider its previous decision to open bids in Denver and to schedule the bid opening in Durango.  Mr. McGowan contended bid opening in Denver would be a hardship on the San Juan Basin bidders and it was his opinion that better bids would be received if they were opened in Durango.

The First Session of the 45^th General Assembly approved legislation establishing a Commission on Higher Education in Colorado, with membership on the Commission to be appointed by the Governor.  The same legislation provided for an Advisory Committee to serve the Commission, to be composed of members of the Legislature and representatives of the governing boards of state-supported colleges and universities.  The Board was asked to select one of its members to serve on the Advisory Committee.  Upon motion and second, Board member Waneka was selected to serve as the representative of the State Board of Agriculture.

Upon motion and second, the Board approved the submittal of the Capital Construction Request to be submitted to the Legislature for Fiscal Year1965-66.  Some of the significant projects included: (1) Funding for equipment for the Library-Classroom Building in the amount of $146,000. (2) Planning, architectural and engineering fees, and construction of a new Physical Education Building in the amount of $1,000,000 (3) Planning, architectural and engineering fees, and construction of new Humanities Fine Arts Center and Classroom Building in the amount of $1,000,000 (4) Planning, architectural and engineering fees for a Life Science Addition to the Academic Building in the amount of $412,000.

The College was informed during a meeting with the Housing and Home Financing Agency that the loan application for Dormitory – Student Union project was in order and full approval would be forthcoming.  The College also learned that legislation before Congress may amend the law on the college loan program to place a ceiling of 3% as the maximum interest rate for college housing loans.  The interest rate anticipated for the loan on this project is 3 ¾%.  On this basis, a delay in the final approval of the project might well be advantageous to the college.  Additionally, the College learned that the Housing and Home Finance Agency now has a policy which permits approval of a loan agreement providing for an earnings test of 1.25 instead of the 1.40.  In order to again the advantage of the 1.25 earnings test, however, a new indenture would have to be drafted.  This would require the refunding of the Series A and B bonds and the advance refunding of the Series C.  It is necessary to advance re-funding of the Series C bonds because early maturities in the amount of $203,000 were purchased by private interests.  Housing and Home Finance Agency indicated a willingness to draft a loan agreement which would provide for the 1.25 earnings test and provide for the refunding and advance refunding of the existing outstanding series.  It was also indicated that in this new indenture additional housing and/or dining facilities could be provided for a given number of students on a one-time basis without requiring full compliance with the earnings test.  Upon motion and second, Board approval was granted to revise the loan agreement based upon 1.25 earnings test and request the Housing and Home Finance Agency to delay approval of the loan for a period not to exceed August 31, 1965, during which time favorable action by Congress on the matter of interest rates for the college housing program is expected.

Upon motion and second, the Board approved the employment of James M. Hunter and Associates as the architect for planning the relocation of the Physical Plant Shop and Yards, including preparation of plans and specifications for the project.

President Reed reported that 2.6 acres of land on the east campus owned by the College but under lease to the Durango Municipal Recreation, Inc., has been released from lease so it can be used as the site for the relocation of the Physical Plant Shops and Yard.

 

August 27, 1965 Colorado State Board of Agriculture meeting

At the March 15, 1963 meeting the Board approved reserving $45,000 from the Revenue Bond Series, April 1, 1963 to be used for the purchase of land at Fort Lewis College.  Since the arrangement to purchase additional land at Fort Lewis College did not require the use of the $45,000 reserve fund, that amount has remained invested in short term U.S. Treasury Notes yielding approximately 3 ½% annually.  With the increased enrollment expected on the campus the fall of 1965, it is anticipated that all residence halls will be assigned in excess of their capacity.  Hence, it is necessary to provide additional furnishings in the residence halls and to replace some of the furnishings in the student lounge.  Upon motion and second, Board approval was granted to transfer $12,000 of the $45,000 amount to be transferred from the investment account to be used to purchase furnishings and equipment in the residence halls and in the student center.

Upon motion and second, the Board approved a purchase contract with the Southern Union Gas Company for the purchase of a high pressure gas line running across campus in the amount of $6,728.31.

Following receipt of bids for the Library-Classroom Building in Denver, July 29, 1965, the Executive Committee acting under authority granted to it at its meeting May 11, 1965, approved the bid of the Craftsmen Construction Co., Inc., Denver, Colorado as the apparent lowest and best bid received for the construction of the building.  Upon motion and second, the Board confirmed action taken by the Executive Committee as the apparent lowest and best bid received for the construction of the Library-Classroom Building on the Fort Lewis College campus and by this same motion approved a contract with this company for the construction of the building for a total amount of $947,900.

Preliminary plans completed on utilities and site survey indicates that a new sanitary sewer trunk line must be installed to serve the East Campus.  The installation of the sewer line must be completed prior to the construction of the proposed Student Union and Dormitory complex projects.  Upon motion and second, the Board approved the revising the capital construction item included in the Fiscal Year 1966-67 request for funds up to the amount actually estimated for planning and constructing the project.

Upon motion and second, Board approval was granted for the Executive Committee of the Board to approve the preliminary and final plans for the construction of the Maintenance Shop and Warehouse project as prepared by James M. Hunter, Architect.

Upon motion and second, the Board authorized the Executive Committee to establish the bid procedures and to set the date for the opening of bids for the construction of the Maintenance Shop and Warehouse.

 

September 23, 1965 Colorado State Board of Agriculture meeting

Upon motion and second, Board approval was granted to set the date for advertising for bids for the construction of the Maintenance Shop and Warehouse at Fort Lewis College, as October 15, 1965; and, by same motion, approved November 5, 1965 as the date for opening bids for the project.

During a meeting with a representative of the Housing and Home Finance Agency, the College learned that in order to take advantage of the 1.25 earning rate now authorized rather than the 1.40 earning rate, it would be necessary to prepare a new loan agreement, setting up a new housing system.  The new loan agreement will provide for the refunding of all outstanding bonds now held by the Government and the advanced refunding of those bonds held by private interests.  In order to provide the necessary funds to permit the advance refunding of bonds held by private investors, it will be necessary to borrow $100,000 in addition to $1,600,000 authorized by the Board at its meeting May 11, 1965, for the Construction of the Dormitory-Student Union project.  Upon motion and second, Board approval was granted to negotiate a new loan with the Housing and Home Finance Agency, to establish a new housing system for Fort Lewis College, and to increase the amount of the loan from $1,600.000 to $1,700,000 to permit advance refunding of bonds now held by private investors; and, by this same motion, the Board authorized the negotiation of a loan from private sources in the amount of $160,000 with which to purchase furniture and movable items of equipment for the Dormitory –Student Union project.

At the August 27, 1965 meeting, the Board tabled until its next meeting a recommendation regarding the selection of a name for the Library-Classroom building.  The Board discussed various means of naming buildings and indicated a preference for designating academic buildings on the basis of their function and the naming of residence halls for people.  However, no action on this item was taken.

 

October 22, 1965 Colorado State Board of Agriculture meeting

In the development of the final plan for the Maintenance Shop and Warehouse it was discovered that the site for this facility included a small parcel of land, which is still under lease to the Durango Municipal Recreation Association.  The construction of the building on land under lease cannot be achieved.  Thus, it is necessary to reverse the position of the two buildings, placing the Maintenance Shop, Motor Vehicle Repair Shops and Warehouse on the west side of the tract rather than the east side.  Upon motion and second, approval was granted to amend the plans and specifications to reflect the changes; and, by the same motion to defer final action on the plans and specifications for this project until the next meeting of the Board.

 

November 12, 1965 Colorado State Board of Agriculture meeting

President Reed informed the Board that the plans had been changed by James Hunter, Architect, relating the Maintenance Shop and Warehouse project and that the revised plans had been approve by him and appropriate College staff.  Mr. Hunter was then asked by the Board to present and discuss the final plans and specifications for the project.  Upon motion and second, the Board approved final plans and specifications for the construction of the facility.

Mr. Hunter discussed alternatives for providing electricity to the Maintenance Shop and Warehouse facility.  One alternative was to extend a line from an existing power line near the site of the new facility.  Another is to install a central sub-station in the new Library Building and extend an underground power line to the Maintenance Shop and Warehouse.  Upon motion and second, Board approval was given to amend the bid specifications to include provisions for bidding an alternative plan for installation of an underground electric line extending from a central station in the new library building to the Maintenance Shop and Warehouse.

Upon motion and second, Board approval was granted to advertise for bids on the Maintenance Shop and Warehouse, beginning on November 17 or 18, 1965, and again on November 24 or 25, 1965 and to open bids December 7, 1965,

James Hunter and President Reed discussed with the Board a proposal calling for the installation of a central substation for distribution of electricity on the main campus of Fort Lewis College.  At the current stage of construction, arrangements for the installation of the sub-station can be achieved through the approval of a change order.  Upon motion and second, the Board authorized President Reed to approve a change order for the installation of a central substation in the Library Classroom Building for the distribution of electricity on the Fort Lewis College campus.

 

December 8, 1965 Colorado State Board of Agriculture meeting

The board received the bids for the construction of the Maintenance Shop and Warehouse which were opened on December 7, 1965.  Upon motion and second, the bid of J.L. Jones Construction Co., of Mote Vista, Colorado, was approved as the apparent lowest and best bid received; and by the same motion, a construction contract with J.L. Jones Construction Co., in the amount of $148,615.00 was approved.

Upon motion and second, the Board approved the loan agreement with the Federal Housing and Home Finance Agency, in the amount of $1,600,000 for the construction of a Dormitory-Student Union project.

As projects for campus development currently under construction are complete and new projects are planned, access to certain sites on the golf course, now under lease to the Durango Municipal Recreation Association, will be required.  Upon motion and second, the Board approval was granted for the President and his staff to negotiate with the Durango Municipal Recreation Association as a means of seeking a solution to the following problems.

1.          For an agreement with the Durango Municipal Recreation Association which will permit the City of Durango to deliver raw water through the open ditch across land now under a long-term lease to the Recreation Association for storage in the existing reservoir immediately east of the Maintenance Shop and Warehouse.

2.          For an understanding with the Recreation Association concerning the use of existing roads as well as construction of new roads on the land which we own and they lease and/or other common roadways that will give access to the property of either party.

3.          For an agreement with the Recreation Association concerning the use of those College-owned utilities (domestic water and sanitary sewer), which will be tapped, in the future to provide water and sewer lines on the new golf course.

4.          For an agreement with the Recreation Association which will permit use by the College of the existing raw water reservoir for College irrigation purposes, until the state Board of Agriculture acquires title in fee-simple to the land now under lease to the Recreation Association.

5.          For an agreement with the Recreation Association which will permit the College to tap the distribution system for the raw water now owned by the Recreation Association at those points which are nearest to the new Library, new Student Center and new dormitory sites.

When negotiations on the above listed items near completion, it is understood recommendations will be submitted to the Board for approval.

As projects currently under construction on the East Campus are completed and new projects are planned, it is essential that agreement be reached with the City of Durango regarding the utilities for the campus.  Upon motion and second, approval was granted for the President and his staff to negotiate with the City of Durango and present recommendations to the Board regarding the following:

1.          The delivery of raw water to the campus for irrigation purposes.

2.          The development of a formal contract with the City for supplying the campus with domestic water.

3.          The working out of whatever arrangements need to be considered relating to the development of the sanitary sewer system from the College to the City system.

 

January 21, 1966 Colorado State Board of Agriculture meeting

President Reed informed the Board that a meeting has been held with representatives of the Board of Directors of the of the Hillcrest Golf Club, and of the receipt of a letter written by Mr. John Arrabito, representing the Club, addressed to Mr. Sheely, President of the State Board of Agriculture.  The essence of the letter states that the Club is engaged in planning for a new replacement golf course and it is the understanding of the Board that a minimum of three years will be needed to construct and finish a new course that would available for play by the members.  Naturally, because of this time consideration, it is of the utmost importance that the Hillcrest Golf Club Board of Directors and the State Board of Agriculture work closely together so that the plans of the State Board and the plans of the Hillcrest Club do not conflict or cause inconvenience or delay either to the College of the Golf Cub members.  At the conclusion of discussions about the letter Board Member Dr. Ball agreed to continue discussions with members of the Board of Directors of the Hillcrest Golf Club and keep the Board informed.  Upon motion and second, the Secretary was directed to write a letter for Mr. Sheely’s signature to the Board of Directors of the Hillcrest Golf Club indicating the Boards interest in working with them and of the Board’s desire to discuss the problems associated with the golf course with them.

James M. Hunter reviewed the budget for the Dormitory-Student Union project and suggested alternatives for it.  He recommended borrowing an additional $100,000 to more adequately finance the project.  This recommendation was based on the opinion that the utilities will cost more and in order to keep some of the amenities in the job the additional amount would be needed.  It was moved to proceed with the project based on the present budget of $1,600,000 and bid those items desired in the building as deductive alternates with the understanding of the Board that the base bid may well be in excess of $1,600,000.  The motion was seconded and approved by the Board.

Upon motion and second, Board approval was given to the plans and specifications for the Dormitory-Student Union project.  Additionally, a motion was made and seconded and approved for advertising for bids for the project on or about February 15, 1966, with opening of bids on or about March 15, 1966.  Under this time schedule, it is anticipated the project would be completed by July 1, 1967.

 

February 25, 1966 Colorado State Board of Agriculture meeting

President Reed discussed a letter from the Division of Public Works and an attached list of corrections to be made to the plans and specifications for the Dormitory-Student Union project.  In addition, President Reed reported on a telephone conversation with the Housing and Home Finance Agency, concerning deviations in the plans and specifications from those submitted with the application for funds.  The telephone call from the Agency was to request revised plans and specifications be sent which conform to the total budget approved by the Agency.  President Reed also discussed a letter from James Hunter which reported the results of telephone conversations that he had with both the Housing and Home Finance Agency and the Division of Public Works.  As a result of these actions it became apparent that the bid schedule approved by the Board at the January 21^st meeting could not be met.  Upon motion and second, amended its action and set March 15, 1966 as the date for advertising bids.

A report item was presented to the Board that the Board of Directors of the Durango Municipal Recreation Association met recently of the Fort Lewis College campus with Mr. Perry Ball, SBA Member, and with representatives of the College.  A general discussion of mutual problems occupied a two-hour period and included items relating to the natural gas distribution, electrical power distribution, raw water distribution and the use of the reservoir.

 

April 1, 1966 Colorado State Board of Agriculture meeting

When the Board approved the purchase of the purchase of the four inch high-pressure line from the Southern Union Gas Company on August 27, 1965 it was understood that the gas company would be required to install a new gas line on the perimeter of the west side of campus. Thus, a right-of-way from the Board is required to install the new line.  Upon motion and second, Board approval was granted for a right-of-way to the Southern Union Gas Company for the installation of the gas line on the west perimeter of Fort Lewis College, campus.

 

May 10, 1966 Colorado State Board of Agriculture meeting

On May 2, 1966 bids were received for the installation of a six inch water line extension on the main campus of Fort Lewis College.  Approval was given by the Division of Public Works to issue a purchase order based upon the bids that had been received rather than to perform the work under contract.  Upon motion and second, Board approval was granted to issue a purchase order in the amount of $9,487 to the Brickham & Tomberlin Co., of Denver, as the apparent lowest and best bidder for the project.

It was reported to the Board that final approval of the plans and specifications for the Dormitory-Student Union project have not been received from the Housing and Home Finance Agency.  Extended negotiations by letter, telephone and personal visits have not satisfied the Agency.  Hence, a representative came to the campus to review the project to address the following concerns:

1.          The basic design for this project as presented to H.U.D. in support of the application for funds was not the same as that presented in the final working drawings and specifications for the project.

2.          An inappropriate portion of the cost of utilities to be extended onto the East Campus has been assigned to this project.

3.          There was the concern that the State of Colorado is not bearing its proportionate share of the cost of developing the new campus.

At the conclusion of the meeting the College was assured that the Agency would be in touch by letter within a short period of time.  Additionally, it was stated that before the project could be given final approval additional information contained in the Utilities and Site Survey project as well as information clarifying the prorating of utility costs between this project and subsequent projects to develop the East Campus must be submitted to the Agency’s office.

Upon motion and second, Board approval was granted for President Reed to submit a letter to the Department of Housing and Urban Development, explaining the need for additional dormitory facilities on the campus in addition to the project in current development.  It is estimated that additional housing beyond the Dormitory-Student Union project will be needed to accommodate and estimated 400 additional residents.

In order to design and locate the sanitary sewer trunk line in a location to connect to the City sewer system, it will be necessary to cross land owned by Burnett Construction Co.  Upon motion and second, the Board authorized President Reed to obtain an easement across the Burnett property for the connection of the sewer line.

Upon motion and second, Board approval was granted for the President of the Board to appoint a committee to meet with representatives of the Hillcrest Golf Club for the purpose of discussing the purchase of the golf course facilities.  President Sheely appointed Board member Mr. Enstrom, Chairman, Dr Ball and a representative of the College to be selected to meet with the Hillcrest Golf Association and requested such meeting be held June, 1966, prior to the June meeting of the Board.

 

June 17, 1966 Colorado State Board of Agriculture meeting

For the past several years representatives of Fort Lewis College have negotiated with the Bureau of Land Management for the purchase of parcels of land in La Plata County located near the Fort Lewis College campus.  In a decision dated May 9, 1966 signed by Everett K. Weedin, Assistant Manager, Branch of Land Adjudication, Bureau of Land Management made the following offer to the Board: “Pursuant to a special pricing schedule, the land in the three applications may be purchased by the College at a rate of $2.50 and acre, or leased at an annual rental of twenty five cents per acre.”  Federal regulations prohibit the Bureau of Land Management from disposing of more than 640 acres of land per individual calendar year; hence, the Bureau offered the Board the opportunity to lease three parcels of land consisting of 1,674.56 acres at twenty-five cents with the option to purchase at the fixed purchase price of $4,186.41 at a future date.

In view of the existing complications associated with the Board’s authority in land matters, the Secretary contacted the Attorney General and was advised the Board has the authority to lease land but not to purchase land.  Upon motion and second, Board approval was granted to lease three parcels of land, identified as follows, with corresponding acreages and lease payments:

1.          C-028959 – Containing approximately 440.37 acres – Lease payment of $110.09

2.          C-028960 – Containing approximately 638.50 acres – Lease payment of $159.63

3.          C-028961 – Containing approximately 595.69 acres – Lease payment of $148.92

 

July 22, 1966 Colorado State Board of Agriculture meeting

The Board reviewed the bids, which were opened on July 19, 1966, for the Dormitory-Student Union project.  Mr. Daniel Black, Business Manager reviewed the bid submitted by R.W. Mier Construction Co.  In connection with this discussion, Mr. Black reviewed the ten deductible items on which each bidder was to submit a proposal.  Upon motion and second, the Board approved the bid of the R.W. Mier Construction Co., as the apparent lowest and best bid received for the construction of the Dormitory-Student Union project, and by the same motion approved construction contract with the Company in the total amount of $1,638,218 for the construction of the project, rejected all deductive alternates and authorized the President of the Board to sign the construction contract for the project.

Upon motion and second, Board approval was granted to request approval from the Department of Housing and Urban Development to amend the loan agreement for the Dormitory-Student Union project, changing the date of the bonds for the project from October 1, 1965 to October 1, 1966 and to request authorization to issue Series D bonds in the principal amount of $305,000.

 

August 8, 1966 special meeting of State Board of Agriculture

Upon motion and second, Board approval was granted to issue revenue bonds in the amount of $175,000 to be sold on the open market in the event additional funds in that amount are not available from the Federal government to complete the financing of the Dormitories-Student Union, Project CH-Colo-73 (DS), at Fort Lewis College, subject to receipt of a firm commitment from a qualified investment banking establishment that the bonds will be purchased at a specific rate of interest; and, by the same motion, authorized the President of the Board to sign a Notice of Award of the construction contract to the R.W. Mier Construction Co. in Denver, Colorado.

 

August 18, 1966 Colorado State Board of Agriculture meeting

The Board discussed the item included in the list of capital construction projects to be requested in the 1967-68 General Assembly regarding the purchase of the golf course facilities.  While the Board owns the land on which the Durango Municipal Recreation, Association, Inc. maintains a golf course, it is necessary to obtain funds from the General Assembly with which to purchase the facilities in order that the area may be developed as a part of the Fort Lewis College campus.  In this connection, differences of opinion exist over the value of the golf course facilities.  Upon motion and second, the Secretary was instructed to locate an independent golf architect qualified to appraise golf course facilities and engage him to review the estimates of the value of the golf course facilities which have been presented to the Board.  Additionally, upon motion and second, the Board approved the inclusion of $94,500 in the list of capital construction items for which funds will be requested in the 1967-68 request from the General Assembly.

On August 17, 1966 bids were received for the construction of a Sanitary Sewer Trunk Line, Project 1346, to serve the Fort Lewis College campus,  On the basis of bids received, the appropriation in the amount of $39,800, approved by the 45^th General Assembly would not be sufficient to finance the project.  Since the occupancy of the Library-Classroom Building and the construction of the Dormitory-Student Union facility is dependent upon completion of the Sanitary Sewer Trunk Line, a revision in the project was required.  Upon motion and second, the Board approved the following budget revision for the project:

	Funds Required
		Construction	54,671.76
		Engineering Fees	4,920.46
		Contingency, Legal & Administrative	407.78
		Total Project	60,000.00
	Source of Funds
		Capital Construction - Appropriation	39,800.00
		City of Durango	781.75
		Revenue Bond Fund Series April 1, 1963	19,418.25
		Total Funds	60,000.00

Upon motion and second, the Board approved the bid submitted by Burnett Construction Co., of Durango, Colorado, as the apparent lowest and best bid received for the installation of the Sanitary Sewer Trunk Line, Project 1346, and approved the construction contract with the Burnett Construction Co. in the amount of $54,671.76; and, by the same motion authorized the President of the Board to sign the contract documents.

Upon motion and second, Board approval was granted to negotiate with the City of Durango for the annexation of 32.6 acres of the recently acquired East Campus to the City of Durango.

Both the Commission and the Joint Budget Committee for the planning of a physical education facility had approved the request for program planning funds submitted to the Colorado Commission on Higher Education on June 6, 1966, in the amount of $3,500.00.

 

September 23, 1966 Colorado State Board of Agriculture meeting

At its meeting August 18, 1966, the Board authorized negotiations with the City of Durango for annexation of a portion of the East Campus to the City.  Negotiations have proceeded as planned.  Upon motion and second, the Board approved the preparation of a petition directed to the Durango City Council for the annexation of 32.6 acres of the East Campus, designated as College Addition No. 2, and the preparation of a petition directed to the City Council for annexation of 3.5 acres of land located near the north end of the East Campus upon which the new Maintenance shops and Warehouse are being constructed, to be designated as College Addition No. 3.

Dr. Ball reported the results of meeting with representatives of the Durango Municipal Recreation Association, Inc. and informed the Board a meeting with representatives of the Board and the Directors of the Association would be desirable in order to begin the negotiation for the purchase of improvements owned by the Association.  Upon motion and second, the Board authorized Mr. Sheely to appoint a committee to negotiate with Directors of the Durango Municipal Recreation Association, Inc, for the purchase of improvements on the Hillcrest Golf Course; and, by this same motion, authorized the Executive Committee to approve the actions of the special committee directed toward the acquisition of an option for the purchase of the improvements at approximately $94,500.

 

December 15, 1966 Colorado State Board of Agriculture meeting

Upon motion and second, the Board approved the petition for annexation of the Second College Addition containing 32.6 acres and generally described as the South one-half of the East Campus formerly known as the Picnic Grounds for submission to the Durango City Council.

Upon motion and second, the Board approved the submission of a petition to the City of Durango for annexation of the Third College Addition to the City containing 2.35 acres of land and located at the north end of the campus and more specifically identified as the site on which the new Maintenance Shop and Warehouse have been constructed.

Bids received for the construction of a new golf course to replace the facilities on land owned by the State Board of Agriculture were presented for Board consideration.  The original appraisal of the golf course improvements established the value at $94,500.  Not included in the appraisal report, however, were those additional items such as utilities, extension of roadways, parking lots, etc. required to make a new golf course in the location purchased by the City of Durango operable.  Based upon the bids received, both for the construction of a new 9-hole course and for the replacement of other associated and required improvements an amended figure of $183,000 was reported as the amount required for replacement of existing facilities.  In its discussion of this item, the Board authorized Dr. Ball to negotiate with the Directors of the Hillcrest Golf Association in an effort to arrive at an amended amount to be requested of the General Assembly for the purchase of the Hillcrest Golf Association improvements.  It was further agreed that Dr. Ball would report the results of his negotiation to President Reed, Mr. Sheely and to the Secretary and that the results of Dr. Ball’s negotiation would constitute the amended amount to be requested from the General Assembly.

At the May 10, 1966 meeting, the Board authorized the submission of a letter of intent to Community Facilities Administration, Department of Housing and Urban Development explaining the need for additional dormitory facilities in addition to those to be provided by Project CH-Colo-73 (DS).  The need for additional housing is recognized and permission to begin the project was requested.  Upon motion and second, the Board approved the submission of a preliminary loan request to the Department in an amount not to exceed $1,750,000 to provide funds to finance the construction of a new dormitory at Fort Lewis College designed to accommodate approximately 400 students.

 

January 13, 1967 Colorado State Board of Agriculture meeting

During the Fort Lewis College hearing before the Joint Budget Committee of the General Assembly, an amendment to the Capital Construction Request for the purchase of the golf course facilities at Fort Lewis College was presented.  The amendment called for a change from $94,500, the figure originally included in the request to $183,000, which figure was determined on the basis of bids received for the actual construction of a new 9-hole golf course.  Following the discussion on this item with the Joint Budget Committee, the Colorado Commission on Higher Education recommended $170,000 to be appropriated for the purchase of the golf course improvements.  Upon motion and second, the Board approved an amendment to the original capital construction request for funds with which to purchase the improvements on the Durango Municipal Recreation Association golf course at Durango, Colorado, from $94,500 originally requested to $170,000, the sum recommended by the Colorado Commission on Higher Education for this project.

It was reported to the Board that the annexation petitions for the College Second and Third Additions as authorized by the State Board of Agriculture at its regular meeting on December 15, 1966 would be presented to the Council of the City of Durango on January 17, 1967.

 

February 10, 1967 Colorado State Board of Agriculture meeting

A report item submitted to the Board stated that Dr. W. P. Ball, or some other member of the Board, may have comments concerning the negotiations with the Durango Municipal Recreation Association and the request for funds for the purchase of improvements of the Golf Course.  The official action taken by the State Board of Agriculture in establishing the figure of $170,000 as the Capital Construction Request for Fort Lewis College for this purpose has been reported to the Colorado Commission on Higher Education by the Secretary of the Board, and we understand that this figure was mentioned in the Governor’s Budget Message on February 1, 1967.

Upon motion and second, the Board approved the issuance of parity bonds in the principal amount of $200,000 at the current bond market rate in effect at the time of issuance under the existing bond indenture Series April 1, 1963 for the purchase of furniture and moveable equipment for the Dormitories-Student Union project now under construction at Fort Lewis College.  Additionally, upon motion and second, Board approval was granted for a faculty-staff committee to prepare plans and specifications and bidding procedures for the purchase of furniture and moveable equipment for the Dormitories-Student Union project; and, by the same motion approved advertising for bids with a bid opening set for the week of March 20, 1967.

 

March 10, 1967 Colorado State Board of Agriculture meeting

At its February 10, 1967, the Board considered selection of an engineering firm to prepare plans and to design a new access road to the campus.  Fort Lewis College had included $100,000 in its capital construction budget request for 1967-68 to construct the road and the CCHE had recommended that $9,000 be used for the physical planning and the determination of the location of the new access road to the campus.  The Board discussed alternatives among which was suggested that the State Highway Department be contacted and asked to assist in the preparation of plans for the road.  Upon motion and second, Board approval was granted to contract for engineering services for the design and planning of a new access road to the Fort Lewis College campus following favorable action by the Legislature and the Governor on the appropriation of funds for this project.

Due to difficulties encountered by the faculty-staff committee in developing specifications for the furniture and moveable equipment for the Dormitories-Student Union project it became impossible to meet the dates as established during the February 10, 1967 Board meeting.  Upon motion and second, the Board approved action taken by the College administration and Board President Sheely to alter the bidding schedule with the opening to occur at 3:00 PM, March 28, 1967 at Durango, Colorado.

 

April 15, 1967 Colorado State Board of Agriculture meeting

Bids for the purchase of furnishings and moveable equipment for the Dormitories-Student Union project were opened on March 28, 1967.  This Board meeting had not completed a review of the twelve separate bids.  Upon motion and second, the Board authorized the Executive Committee to approve the successful bidders for supplying furnishings and movable equipment for the project, and by the same motion authorized the Executive Committee to approve the issuance of purchase orders to the successful bidders.

Upon motion and second, the Board approved the submission of a project application for remodeling the old Library space in the Academic Building, to be financed from funds included in the approved long appropriation bill.  Additionally, the Board discussed with George King, Architect, of Durango, Colorado, about the preparation of plans and specifications for the project.

Dr. Ball reported the results of meeting between Representatives of the Board of Directors of the Hillcrest Golf Club held on the Fort Lewis College campus with representatives of the State Board of Agriculture to discuss the purchase of the improvements and facilities on the Hillcrest Golf Course.  Dr Ball stated that representatives of the Club felt that the Board should find some means to increase the payment for the improvements above the $170,000 figure contained in the long appropriation bill.  However, the group was informed that the bill specifically provides that the $170,000 represents “complete and final payment” for the improvements and facilities on the golf course.  Therefore, it would be impossible for the Board to increase the payment above that amount, even if fund were available.  In summary, the following points were discussed: (1) that the Board buy the lease on the present golf course for $170,000, which would represent “complete and final payment” for the improvements and facilities; (2) the Hillcrest Golf Club requested that 12 acres of land located adjacent to the site of new golf course be leased to the City or exchanged for the reservoir site owned by the City in order to make it available for development as a part of the new golf course; and (3) the Board representatives felt that if the above items were completed, the Board should have possession of the present golf course site by July 1, 1969 or sooner if the new course is suitable for use.

Upon motion and second, the Board authorized the Board Committee selected to deal with the Hillcrest Golf Association to proceed with negotiations and to report the results back to the Board for approval.

 

April 15, 1967 Special Colorado State Board of Agriculture meeting

The Secretary informed the Board of receipt of a letter from John Arrabito, President, Durango Municipal Recreation, Inc., regarding the purchase of the lease and improvements on the Hillcrest Golf Course.  Copies of the letter were provided to the Board members for their review during the discussion.

Upon motion and second, Board approval was granted to exchange approximately 12 acres of land located on the present site of the Hillcrest Golf Club for the reservoir site located on the main campus of the College and owned by the City of Durango with the understanding that possession of the reservoir site will become effective as soon as the city determines that continued use of the Reservoir is not need in connection with the City water system, such period of use not to exceed five years, and by this same motion Board approval was granted for the City of Durango to install a pressure water tank in the vicinity of the Fort Lewis College campus at a site to be agreed to by the Board.

The Board continued its discussion of the letter received from Mr. Arrabito.  The letter had been prepared as a letter of agreement to which the Board was asked to agree.  The Board agreed to the general terms of the letter dated April 21, 1967, received from the President of Durango Municipal Recreation Inc., but did not approve signing the letter as requested since all Board members did not have the opportunity to review the text of a proposed agreement before finally approving such a document.  In these connections the Secretary was instructed to transmit this information to Mr. Arrabito.  In the letter sent to Mr. Arrabito it is pointed out that an agreement on exchange of property could only occur between the Board and the City of Durango as the Durango Municipal Recreation Inc. has no authority to enter into this type of agreement.

 

May 9, 1967 Colorado State Board of Agriculture meeting

On April 23, 1959, Charles Dale Rea, then President of Fort Lewis College, contacted the Colorado State Office of the Bureau of Land Management to obtain title for the Board to three parcels owned by the Bureau of Land Management and situated in the vicinity of the Fort Lewis College campus.  Following this inquiry, an application was submitted to the Bureau of Land Management to acquire 1,674.56 acres composed of three parcels of land.  Following this preliminary negotiation, continued efforts were made to lease the land with the expectation that eventually the property would be acquired for use of the College.  On July 26, 1966, the three parcels of land were leased to the Board for a two-year period with the understanding that portions of the property comprising less than 649 acres might be acquired in any one year at the purchase price of $2.50 per acre.  The Board approved the leases and was notified May1, 1967 that 440 acres could be purchased under the existing purchase agreement.  The Board considered this matter at length and was informed no funds are available for the continuation of the leases or for the land purchase.  Upon motion and second, the Board determined the leases held on Bureau of Land Management lands located in Sections 4, 9 and 10, T 34 N, R 9 W, New Mexico Principal Meridian; Section 34, T 34 and 34 ½ N, R 9 W, New Mexico Principal Meridian; and Sections 34 and 35, T 34 ½ and 35 N, R 9 W, New Mexico Principal Meridian, not be renewed and further decided not to purchase the lands offered to the Board under the terms of the lease arrangement of the Bureau of Land Management.

The Board was informed of receipt of a letter from the Hillcrest Golf Association setting forth a proposal for the purchase of the improvements and facilities on the Board-owned land leased to the Association for a golf course and for cancellation of the existing lease on the property.  In connection with the discussion, the Board was informed the City of Durango would need about two acres of the present City Reservoir site for the installation of a water tank to serve the domestic water system of the City.  At the conclusion of the discussion, Board approval was granted for Dr Ball and the administrative staff of the Fort Lewis College to continue negotiations with the City of Durango for an exchange of Board-owned land for the City-owned reservoir site and with the Hillcrest Golf Association for the acquisition of the improvements and facilities on the golf course and the cancellation of the lease on the present Hillcrest golf course property.

Upon motion and second, the Board approved the text for the dedication plaque for the new Student Union Building, Project CH-Colo-73 (DS) at Fort Lewis College and by the same motion, the Board unanimously indicated its preference that Dr. Reed’s name be placed on the plaque as President of the College.  In this connection, the Board acknowledged its willingness to yield to the President Reed’s feeling on this matter.

Upon motion and second, the Board approved naming three of the six new dormitory units currently under construction, Project CH-Colo-73 (DS), “Bader Hall Triangle”, for former Dean Ernest H. Bader, with the individual buildings in the complex to be designated as Bader A, B and C and by the same motion approved the text to appear on the dedicatory plaque to be place in Unit A of the complex.

Upon motion and second, the Board approved naming the remaining group of three buildings in the new dormitory complex “Sheridan Hall Triangle”, for former Philip H. Sheridan, with the individual buildings in the complex to be designated as Sheridan A, B and C and by the same motion approved the text to appear on the dedicatory plaque to be place in Unit A of the complex.

The request submitted for funds for planning a second access road to the campus was not approved by the Legislature.  Due to the importance of this project, the Board was asked to approve a request to the CCHE for funds with which to begin program planning for the road.

Contained in the report Section of the State Board Agenda was notification of the receipt of a letter from Mr. Bronnis Todd, Acting Supervisory Adjudicator, Branch of Land, Bureaus of Land Management which stated that on May 26, 1967, the State Board of Agriculture filed a letter of official notice that it cannot continue the leases and arrangement for purchase of the public land involved.  The reasons stated are deemed acceptable and the letter of withdrawal is hereby accepted.  The records will be noted and the cases closed without further action.

Another item contained in the report section was a letter from the Executive Director of the CCHE, which stated that the application for programming funds for the second access road project had been received.  The letter further stated that the CCHE could not consider the road project as program planning but it was regarded as physical planning and engineering for which the funds had not been approved by the Legislature and that in fact the road had been given its basic location through the recently revised Master Plan.

 

June 26, 1967 Colorado State Board of Agriculture meeting

The Board was informed of a meeting in Durango, Colorado, June 20, 1967, at which Mr. Arthur Sheely, Mr. Homer L. Pearson and Dr W. P. Ball representing the State Board of Agriculture, met with representatives of the Hillcrest Golf Club to discuss the purchase agreement for the Golf Course facilities.  During the discussion, the Board was advised, that the text of the purchase agreement prepared by representatives of the Golf club had been revised to conform to the recommendation of the three Board members as a result of the meeting.  Upon motion and second, the Board approved the agreement for the purchase of facilities and improvements on the present Golf Course, subject to approval by the Attorney General; and, by this same motion, authorized the President to sign the contract.

 

July 7, 1967 State Board of Agriculture purchased leasehold interest to include improvements and facilities from the Durango Municipal Recreation, Inc.

That Whereas, Seller is the owner of a lease-hold interest on certain lands owned by Buyer, and

Whereas, Seller also owns certain improvements on said leased premises consisting of complete Golf Course facilities, including, among other things, a Club House, sprinkling and irrigation systems and,

Whereas, Buyer desires to purchase said leasehold interest and improvements of Seller and Seller desires to sell.

Now Therefore, in consideration of mutual covenants and agreements herein contained it is agreed as follows:

1.          Seller agrees to sell and Buyer agrees to buy the lease-hold interest of the Seller, together with the improvements thereon situate for a total purchase price of $170,000.00

2.          Seller agrees to execute and deliver to Buyer, release and relinquishment of their lease-hold interest on the premises described in Exhibit A attached hereto and made a part hereof.  Buyer will pay to Seller on or before August 1, 1967, the full purchase price of $170,000.

3.          Seller agrees to deliver possession of said lease-hold interest to buyer on or before July 1, 1969; however, if the new Golf Course to be constructed by Seller is not prepared for use by July 1, 1969, and Buyers at their option do not need all or a part of the subject premises, Buyer will allow the Golf Club to use all or part of said premises until November 1, 1969.

4.          Buyer will grant Seller permission to use road presently established for access to the Married Student Housing facilities on the Fort Lewis College campus, with the understanding such use may continue until the Buyer closes the road to through traffic or until the City of Durango and/or the County of La Plata provided an access road to the area in which the new Golf Course is to be constructed.

5.          It is understood and agreed that Seller shall remove the existing Club House facilities from the subject premises within one year after July 1, 1969 at their own expense.  And in addition, it is further understood and agreed that Buyer will allow Seller to salvage an usable portions of the existing Golf Club facilities, including sprinkler heads, but excluding the existing sprinkling system facilities, as such time as seller discontinues to use the existing sprinkling system facilities, at such time as Seller discontinues to use the existing Golf Club facilities.

6.          It is further understood and agree that until such time that Seller vacates subject premises, Buyer shall have right to enter upon the premises at all reasonable times for the purpose of exploring and planning in connection with the future construction of buildings to become a part of the Fort Lewis College campus provided that buyer or its agents or employees shall not interfere with the continued use of the existing Golf Club faculties.

This agreement shall not be deemed valid until it shall have been approved by the State Controller or such assistant as he may designate.

This agreement was filed under Reception No. 346786 on August 8, 1967.

 

August 4, 1967 Colorado State Board of Agriculture meeting

President Reed informed the Board the preparation of the final working drawings for remodeling at the Old Library in the Academic Building, Project 1449, is under way.  Upon motion and second, the Board approved the preliminary design for the remodeling and authorized President Reed to establish a date for the opening of bids for the project.  Additionally, upon motion and second, the Board authorized Board President Sheely to sign the final working drawings indicating the Board’s approval for the plans.

Upon motion and second, the Board authorized President Reed to proceed with whatever is necessary in the way of survey work, preparation of plats, and land descriptions for securing a right-of-way from the City of Durango for the installation of a covered pipeline across City owned land located north of the College campus to provide raw irrigation water to the College.

September 26, 1967 Colorado State Board of Agriculture meeting

James M Hunter, Architect, presented the text of a letter addressed to R.W. Mier Construction Co.; setting forth conditions for with beneficial occupancy for the Sheridan Hall Triangle could be achieved.  President Reed recommended Board approval of beneficial occupancy of the complex and explained the status of student housing in motels in the City of Durango.  Mr. Hunter reviewed the status of the total project and indicated that the dormitory portion was 95-97% complete but that the Student Union portion was only 60% complete with the overall project at 70% completion.  Upon motion and second, the Board approved the conditions of beneficial occupancy of the Sheridan Hall Triangle as described in the letter from the Architect to the construction company.

The Board discussed the problems associated with the overall construction relating to the Dormitories-Student Union project with special attention to payments to the contractor.  Upon motion and second, the Board approved payment to the contractor for work performed during the month of September, 1967 in the amount approved by the Architect and the Division of Public Works and further directed that $100 per day be withheld from future payments in accordance with item 19 of the Construction Contract, such deduction to begin on the date established by the Attorney General.

Board President Sheely apprised the Board of meetings he attended, with the Committee of the Legislative Council on State Re-organization that discussed the proposed abolishment of the State Board of Agriculture, the Board of Regents of the University of Colorado and the Board of Trustees of the Colorado School of Mines.  He attended the meetings at the invitation of the Chairman of the Colorado Commission on Higher Education.  The Board agreed that an official position needed to be taken and directed its attention to Fort Lewis College and recommendations announced by the Committee supporting the one Board concept to place Fort Lewis College under the control of the Trustees of State Colleges.  The Board directed Mr. Sheely to continue to participate as a member of the invited group and to prepare a recommendation for the establishment of one Board and directed Mr. Sheely to insist that Fort Lewis College be made a branch of Colorado State University.  Upon motion and second, the Board approved the following statement as its present position regarding the establishment of a single Board to serve as the governing body of Colorado State University, the University of Colorado and the Colorado School of Mines.

“The State Board of Agriculture, governing body for Colorado State University and Fort Lewis College, discussed the matter of a single university board, which has recently attracted much public attention, in a summary manner at Monday’s (Sept 25) meeting in Durango.

Board members issued the following statement:

The Board directed its President, Arthur C. Sheely of Fort Collins, to participate in all appropriate state-level discussions regarding any plans for changing the responsibility of the State Board of Agriculture.

December 12, 1967 Colorado State Board of Agriculture meeting

On November 28, 1967 bids were received for the remodeling of the Old Library space in the Academic building of Fort Lewis College.  In order that the minutes appropriately reflect action taken by the Board, it was noted that the Board approved minutes of the Executive Committee meeting of November 30, 1967 and thereby approved the bid of the McCrary Construction Co., of Grand Junction, Colorado, in the amount of $77,555.00, as the apparent lowest and best bid received for remodeling the old Library in the Academic Building; and, by the same action, approved a construction contract with the McCrary Construction Co.

March 15, 1968 Colorado State Board of Agriculture meeting

The Colorado Commission on Higher Education allocated to Fort Lewis College the sum of $3,500 for the expenses of a program planning committee for the life Science Addition to the Academic Building.  The committee has been formed and has established the primary concept for the use of the proposed addition and has given serious attention to the selection of a consultant.  Additionally, the Colorado Commission on Higher Education allocated to Fort Lewis College the sum of $5,000 for the expenses of a program planning committee for the proposed Humanities-Fine Arts Building.

The Long Appropriation Bill provided for the physical planning and the construction funding of the Life Science Addition to the Academic Building, in the amount of $396,500.  The bill further contained an amount of $55,000 for access road construction and new road feasibility.  The Commission on Higher Education and the State Budget Office recommended that the Board enter into an agreement with the Department of Highways for necessary engineering work required for the project.  The amounts indicated were $5,000 for engineering and $50,000 for construction.  Additionally, the bill contained $56,000 for site development and utilities.  This provided $41,000 for new construction for roads, sidewalks, and campus lighting, and $15,000 for the engineering work in connection with a complete campus irrigation system using untreated water.

The Long Appropriation Bill also contained an amount of $40,000 for the physical planning of a Physical Education Building.  Upon motion and second, the Board authorized the submission of an amended project application for the Physical Education Building when the Bill has been signed by the Governor.

Upon motion and second, the Board approved the selection of George A. King, of Durango, Colorado as the Architect for the Life Science Addition to the Academic Building, A. Lamar Kelsey and Associates, of Colorado Springs, Colorado, as Architects for the Physical Education Building and Wheeler & Lewis, of Denver, Colorado, as Architects for the Humanities-Fine Arts Building.

June 21, 1968 City of Durango transfers property along City Reservoir to State Board of Agriculture
[this land lies along the current, as of that date, western edge of the Fort Lewis College property]

A Deed was created whereby for consideration of Ten Dollars and other valuable considerations, City of Durango conveyed a tract of land lying and being in the SW1/4 SE1/4 of Section 20 and the NW1/4 NE1/4 of Section 29, all in Township 35 North, Range 9 West, N.M.P.M, and being more particularly described as follows, to-wit: (Followed by complete metes and bounds description containing 7.594 acres, more or less.)

There is Excepted and Reserved unto the Grantor herein two easements for utility purposes over and across the above described property and more particularly described as follows, to-wit: (A complete metes and bounds description of the 20 foot easements (10 feet on each side of centerline) is contained)

The Warranty Deed was filed under Reception No. 351930 on September 9, 1968.

 

June 21, 1968 State Board of Agriculture transfers property in northern portion of the golf course to the City of Durango

A Deed was created whereby for consideration of Ten Dollars and other valuable considerations, State Board of Agriculture conveyed a triangular-shaped tract of land lying and being in the S1/2  SW1/4 of Section 21, Township 35 North, Range 9 West, N.M.P.M, and being more particularly described as follows, to-wit: (Followed by complete metes and bounds description containing 7.594 acres, more or less.)

The Warranty Deed was filed under Reception No. 351487 on August 2, 1968.

 

June 22, 1968 Colorado State Board of Agriculture meeting

Since April 1, 1967, the State Board of Agriculture, the Durango Municipal Recreation Association, and the City of Durango have negotiated for the exchange of approximately 12 acres of land acquired by the Board as part of the golf course for an equal acreage of land owned by the City of Durango and used as a reservoir site.  During the course of the negotiation, verbal agreements were reached between the City and the Board for the exchange.  No formal action was taken, however, pending final determination of the acreage of land involved and the determination by the City of their future need for some use of the reservoir site.  The City has now clarified its position and needs and is ready for formal action concerning the approval of the exchange.  Upon motion and second, the Board approved the exchange of approximately 12 acres of land acquired by the Board as a part of the Municipal Golf Course for an equal acreage of land owned by the City of Durango and formerly used as a reservoir site.  This exchange was approved on the basis of equal value of the properties involved.

Upon motion and second, Board approval was granted to designate May 16, 1968 as the date of acceptance for the remodeling project of the old Library space; and, by the same motion, approved the publication of Notice of Final Settlement during the last week of June with second publication during the first week of July to publicly announce that final payment to the Contractor would be made July 12, 1968.

 

July 26, 1968 Colorado State Board of Agriculture meeting

President Reed informed the Board of the receipt of a letter from Miss Emma Brown, Chief, College Housing and Loans Branch, Housing Assistance Office, Department of Housing and Urban Development as notification that $1,500,000 had been reserved for a 90-day period for Fort Lewis College to finance the construction of a new dormitory complex, Project CH-Colo-83 (D).  Upon motion and second, Board approval was granted for the College to proceed with the completion of the application and other necessary forms required to obtain a loan from the Department in the amount of $1,500,000 to support construction of a new dormitory facility to accommodate 300 men and 100 women students.

Upon motion and second, the Board approved the resolution authorizing the submission of the full application for loan assistance to finance the construction of a dormitory complex, approved the execution of the Assurance of Compliance with the Civil Rights Act, and designated President John F. Reed as the authorized representative of the Board to execute the full loan application and the Assurances of Compliance.

Upon motion and second, the Board approved the employment of Tallmadge, Tallmadge, Willson and Lamm to serve as bond counsel in connection with the construction of new dormitories, Project CH-Colo-83 (D) at Fort Lewis College.

Upon motion and second, the Board authorized Bond Counsel to proceed with work required to complete the legal requirements associated with the submission of the full application for funds to be submitted to the Department of Housing and Urban Development to finance construction of a new dormitory complex at Fort Lewis College.

Upon motion and second, the Secretary was instructed to notify the Colorado Commission on Higher Education that the Board had authorized Fort Lewis College to file an application for funds from the Department of Housing and Urban Development to finance construction of a new dormitory complex at Fort Lewis College, to also notify the Commission that $1,500,000 had been reserved for the project, and to assure the Commission the construction of the complex will conform to the long-range plan for the College.

Upon motion and second, the Board approved an agreement with the Colorado Department of Highways for the preparation of a feasibility study, for the performance of necessary engineering work, and for assistance in the location and construction of a new access road to the Fort Lewis College campus.

 

August 22, 1968 Colorado State Board of Agriculture meeting

Mr. George King, Architect, for the Life Science Addition to the Academic Building, Project No. 1486, explained the plans developed for the design development phase of the project to the Board to include a discussion on the estimated budget to finance the project.  Upon motion and second, the Board approved the design development phase of the project subject to recommendations of a consultant on the greenhouse portion of the complex; and, by the same motion authorized the Executive Committee of the Board to approve final plans and specifications, to set a date for advertising for bids, and to set a date for opening bids for the construction of the project.

Mr. Lamar Kelsey, Architect, presented a supplement to the program and plan prepared for Phase I of the Physical Education Building, Project 1409.  Upon motion and second, the Board approved the revised program and plan (Phase I) and authorized the submission of the document to the Colorado Commission on Higher Education.

Upon motion and second, the Board approved the program and plan for the Humanities-Fine Arts Building prepared by a faculty-staff committee with the assistance of Mr. Don P. Schlegel, consultant for Albuquerque, New Mexico, and authorized the submittal of the document to the Colorado Commission on Higher Education.

 

September 27, 1968 Colorado State Board of Agriculture meeting

Upon motion and second, Board approval was granted to deny R.W. Mier Construction Co. the opportunity to bid on the Life Sciences Addition to the Academic Building, Project 1486.  The denial was based upon the performance of the company in the construction of the Dormitories-Student Union, Project CH-Colo-73 (DS) at Fort Lewis College.

Upon motion and second, the Board confirmed action taken by its Executive Committee September 24, 1968, to approve plans and specifications, to authorize advertising for bids for the construction of the Life Science Addition, October 7 and 14, 1968 and to establish October 29^th as the date for the opening of bids for the project.

 

October 18, 1968 Colorado State Board of Agriculture meeting

Due to delay encountered in the Division of Public Works, it was impossible to advertise for bids on dates approved at the September 27^th meeting for the Life Science Addition.  Upon motion and second, approval was granted for the Executive Committee to act on other dates for advertising and for opening of bids for the construction of the Life Science Addition to the Academic Building.

 

October 15, 1968 Colorado State Board of Agriculture meeting

Upon motion and second, the Board authorized the Executive Committee to review bids to be received November 19, 1968 for the construction of the Life Science Addition to the Academic Building and to award the construction contract to the apparent low bidder or to take whatever action the Committee feels is most appropriate after the bids are opened.

Items in the Reports Section of the State Board Agenda contained the following project information: (1) Following approval of the program plan for the Humanities-Fine Arts Building and the release of funds for Physical Planning, Mr. Carol Lewis of Wheeler and Lewis, has continued his consultations with the College’s program planning committee and is in the process of developing the Schematic Design of the building, which when complete will be brought to the Board for approval.  (2) The contract for architectural services of Lamar Kelsey and Associates has been in the development phase at the state level for several weeks.  Nonetheless, Mr. Kelsey is proceeding with the necessary work that will join his efforts as consultant during the program-planning phase to his services as architect for the Planning Phase of the project.

 

December 10, 1968 Colorado State Board of Agriculture meeting

Upon motion and second, the Board confirmed the action taken by the Executive Committee to approve a resolution concerning a course of action to follow with respect to bids submitted for the construction of a Life Science Addition to the Academic Building.  Additionally, upon motion and second, the Board approved the following revised construction budget which was based upon negotiations between George A. King, Architect, and Harry McCrary Construction, Co., the apparent low bidder for the project; and by the same motion approved a construction contract with the construction company in the amount of $367,356.00; and instructed the Secretary to request the Division of Public Works to issue a Notice of Award to the Harry McCrary Construction Co.  The total available for the project was $400,000, which included $820 for program planning, $22,042 for architect’s fees, $367,356 for construction, $300 for publication costs and $9,482 in contingencies.

President Reed presented  to the Board the following letter of resignation, addressed to Arthur C. Sheely, President, State Board of Agriculture.  The Secretary read his letter to the Board:

Upon motion and second, the Board approved President Reed’s resignation with regret, approved his appointment as Professor of Biology, and approved a leave of absence for professional improvement at one-half salary for the 1969-70 academic year, with the understanding he would assume full teaching responsibilities at the College beginning with the Fall Trimester 1970.

By the same motion, the Board approved the following statement:

 

January 17, 1969 Colorado State Board of Agriculture meeting

The Division of Public Works disagreed with the action taken by the Board at its December 10, 1968 meeting concerning the awarding of a bid to Harry McCrary Construction Co.  The Division of Public Works suggested further negotiations between the College, the Architect, the Contractor and the Division of Public Works to reach an agreement.  On December 20, 1968 a meeting as held where an agreement was reached on the revision of the contract to include acceptance of deductive alternates, which reduced the contract from $367,356 to $345,280 as the contract price for the project.  A Notice of Award was prepared by the Division of Public Works and forwarded to the Secretary for the Signature of the President of the Board.  Prior to having the President of the Board sign the Notice, the Secretary apprised the Executive Committee of the agreement and received their approval of the results of the negotiation and authorization for issuance of the Notice of Award.

Upon motion and second, the Board approved the action of the Executive Committee to approve the contract with the Harry McCrary Construction Co. in the amount of $345,280 for the construction of the project and authorized the Issuance of the Notice of Award.

At the December 20, 1968 meeting to reach the agreement on the terms of the contract for the project, it was agreed that a Change Order in the amount of $22,076 for the addition of structural components of the Intermediate Lab, Room 201, Prep Room 202, and Corridor 203 would be immediately approved.  Upon motion and second, the Board approved Change Order No. 1 and authorized Daniel E. Black, Business Manager of Fort Lewis College to sign the Change Order.

The capital construction request for Fiscal Year 1969-70 included $1,283,400 to finance construction of the Humanities-Fine Arts Building, Project 1506, at Fort Lewis College.  The CCHE recommended the appropriation of this amount by the Colorado General Assembly under a No. 1 priority.  In this connection, the Commission recommended that the Board approve the submission of an application for Higher Education Facilities Act Funds for this project.  Upon motion and second, the Board approved the submission of the application for funds under Title I, Section 104, to be used as partial funding for the construction of the project.

State Board of Agriculture Vice President Ball informed the Board that the Committee for the Selection of a new President for Fort Lewis College has been established.  The faculty was asked to select a committee consisting of four individuals from whom Dr. Ball, Dean Pixler and President Reed selected three.  The students were requested to select a committee of four, from which one was selected to serve on the committee.  Dean Pixler was selected to serve as the chairman of the committee and reported letters have been sent to individuals and organizations soliciting names of candidates and to date twenty names have been received.

 

February 21, 1969 Colorado State Board of Agriculture meeting

Representatives from Wheeler, Lewis and Anderson, Architects, presented the schematic design for the Humanities-Fine Arts Building.  Through the use of architectural drawings the plan for each floor of the building, the exterior design of the building, and the functions of the building were presented for the Board’s consideration.  Upon motion and second, the Board approved the schematic design for the project.

On September 11, 1968 a meeting was held with representatives of the College and the Department of Housing and Urban Development to discuss the auxiliary enterprise system at the College and the application for funds to construct a new dormitory complex.  On September 21, 1968 a full application for housing assistance in the amount of $1,500,000 has been submitted for consideration.  This was submitted on the basis of a preliminary reservation of funds made on June 30, 1968, as a result of need established in a preliminary application for housing assistance on about May 1, 1968.  The application currently pending would add an additional $83,500 to the requirements for debt service within the total Student Housing System.  Limited only by the ability of the College to fill the 400 single student units which is proposed for construction under Project CH-Colo-83 (D), there is no reason to expect that the College will fail to meet these additional obligations.  It is also readily apparent that even though the College may experience some difficulty in filling these units in 1970, there is no question as to the need for these units for the Fall of 1971.  Upon motion and second, the Board approved a request that their application for funds to construct new dormitory facilities at Fort Lewis College be continued as an active application and requested favorable action by the Department of Housing and Urban Development.

Contained in the report Section of the Agenda was an item advising the Board that the College had filed with the Commission on Higher Education an application for Federal Funds as provided for under Title I, Section 104, of the Higher Education Act of 1963.  The amount contained in the request was $451,667, which was one-third of the total estimated cost of the project.

 

March 21, 1969 Colorado State Board of Agriculture meeting

Representative from Wheeler and Lewis, Architects presented the design development drawings for the construction of the Humanities-Fine Arts Building to the Board.  Three alternatives for the construction of the project based on three different construction budgets were discussed.  This was necessary since the Governor’s recommendation to the Joint Budget Committee amounted to $72,900 less than had been requested.  The three alternatives are as follows:

Alternate A    The original plan provide for 58,049 sq ft with the estimated cost of construction at 21.49 per sq ft.  If the $72,900 is not restored by the General Assembly the cost would be estimated to be $20.24 per sq ft.

Alternate B    This would provide 55,701 sq ft with the estimated cost of construction at $22.40 per sq ft if the total construction budget requested of the Legislature were approved.  If $72,900 is deleted from the budget, the cost of constructing the building under this plan was estimated to be 21.09 per sq ft.

Alternate C    This would provide 52,657 sq ft with the estimated cost of construction at $23.69 per sq ft if the total construction budget requested of the Legislature were approved.  If the total were not approved, the cost of construction would be $22.31 per sq ft.

Upon motion and second, the Board accepted the proposal identified as Alternate B, which calls for preparing plans for a building containing 55,701 sq ft at an estimated cost of $22.40 per sq ft, if the total budget is appropriated by the General Assembly, or $21.09 per sq ft if the appropriation is that recommended by the Governor; with further provision that should bids for the construction of this project exceed the budget, Alternate C is approved as a deductive alternate.

 

April 25, 1969 Colorado State Board of Agriculture meeting

Mr. Lamar Kelsey, of Lamar Kelsey and Associates, Architects presented the schematic drawings on the proposed Physical Education Building.  Color slides were used to present the schematic design drawings for the building and explained the layout of the building and the estimated cost of construction.  Upon motion and second, the Board approved the schematic drawings for the building.

 

May 13, 1969 Colorado State Board of Agriculture meeting

Upon motion and second, the Board approved the submission of an amended project application for the construction of a life Science Addition to the Academic Building, Project 1486, in order to obtain official approval for an amendment to the project to authorize the use of $55,000 appropriated to the project by the last session of the General Assembly.

Upon motion and second, the Board approved the submission of a project application for authorization to use $30,000 appropriated for Project 1486 for remodeling and renovation of space in the Academic Building to be used in connection with the Life Science Program.

Upon motion and second, the Board approved the employment of George W. King, Architect, of Durango, Colorado to provide architectural services for the remodeling of the existing Life Science space in the Academic Building, and, by the same motion requested the Division of Public Works to prepare the appropriate contract documents for these services.

Upon motion and second, the Board approved the submission of a project application for the use of $77,550 for the construction of a north campus access road 0.58 miles in length to extend from Goeglein Gulch on the east and terminate at the north end of the campus in the vicinity of the Maintenance Shop and Yard.  Additionally, upon motion and second, the Board authorized the College to negotiate a contract with the Colorado Department of Highways for the construction of the north campus access road; and, by the same motion authorized the President of the Board to approve the contract upon successful completion of negotiations.

The CCHE approved a recommendation and submitted it to the General Assembly for an appropriation of $1,283,400 to construct a Humanities-Fine Arts Building.  The State Budget Office recommended an appropriation of $1,210,500 and the General Assembly appropriated only $835,201 for the project.  In addition, the Department of Health, Education and Welfare approved a grant under Title I in the amount of $451,667 toward payment of construction costs which was intended to fund approximately one-third of the total cost of the building.  Since the Legislature did not follow any of the recommendations it became necessary to reduce the size of the building appreciably in order to fund the construction within the limits of the appropriation.  It then became necessary to redesign the building at additional cost for architectural and planning services in order to stay within the amount available for the project.  Upon motion and second, Board approval was granted for the College to meet with CCHE staff in order to determine a course of action to be followed and to report back to the Board at it meeting June 12 and 13, 1969.  By the same motion, the Board stipulated that additional planning be done on the project in accordance with suggestions contained in “Course No. 3” as follows:

“Accept the appropriation of $835,201; request the Colorado Commission of Higher Education for adequate planning money; redo the program plan; redo the physical planning; construct and inadequate building, but the best building which can be had for the price the State can afford.”

The Colorado General Assembly appropriated $820,500 for the construction of a Physical Education Building at Fort Lewis College.  This amount was approximately $300,000 less than the Architect’s estimate for Phase I of the facility.  Phase I called for the construction of a building containing 45,549 sq ft.  The Long Bill, Senate No. 423, not only specified the amount of money appropriated for the project but specified that the building be 41,025 sq ft.  President Reed discussed alternatives for the Board to consider in the construction of the project.  Upon motion and second, the Board approved a recommendation that the Architect do whatever is necessary to amend the program plan and to develop the physical planning within the funds and square footage authorized.

 

June 13, 1969 Colorado State Board of Agriculture meeting

Mr. Lamar Kelsey, Architect, presented the revised schematic design for the Physical Education Building to the Board, including estimated seating capacity and estimated cost of construction on the basis of action taken by the Legislature to decrease the appropriation and size of the building.  Upon motion and second, the Board approved the revised schematic design prepared by the Architects for the project.

Mr. Carol Lewis and Mr. Orville G. Anderson, of the architectural firm Wheeler and Lewis, presented the revised schematic design for the Humanities-Fine Arts Building.  This was caused by the reduction in the amount appropriated for the project.  Upon motion and second, the Board approved the revised schematic design for the project.  Additionally, Mr. Anderson advised the Board that due to the mandated changes about 50% of the work now completed can be used in the revised plans for the project.  Since additional work was necessary to redesign the building it was requested that an amendment to the contract be prepared in order that the firm could recover additional costs incurred in planning the project.  Upon motion and second, approval was granted to have an amendment to the contract prepared to cover the additional costs incurred in preparing revised plans with the understanding the added cost to be incurred will be provided by the CCHE and by the same motion, directed that the amendment to the contract be brought to the Board for its approval.

Upon motion and second, the Board approved the appointment of Dr. Rexer Berndt as President of Fort Lewis College effective July 14, 1969, with the understanding a State car will be made available to him for official use, moving expenses will be paid for moving his personal belongings from Flagstaff, Arizona to Durango, Colorado, housekeeping services and entertainment allowance will be provided, and with the house and utilities provided at no expense as a condition of employment.

Upon motion and second, the Board approved the appointment of Dr. John F. Reed as President Emeritus of Fort Lewis College, with the understanding he will continue to serve as President of the College until July 14, 1969, at which time Dr. Rexer Berndt’s appointment will become effective and Dr. Reed will continue to serve as President Emeritus on an active basis until July 20, 1969, and thereafter will retain the title President Emeritus and Professor of Biology.

 

July 25, 1969 Colorado State Board of Agriculture meeting

Mr. Lamar Kelsey presented the design-development drawings to the Board for the Physical Education Building, which the College staff had approved.  Upon motion and second, the Board approved the design-development drawings for the project.  Additionally, Mr. Kelsey requested Board approval for an amendment to his contract to cover added services required for the project due to the Legislatures reduction in the amount of funds and size of the facility.  Upon motion and second, the Board approved revising the contract; and by the same motion authorized the Executive Committee, with the advice of the Resident Counsel, to approve the amendment to the contract after the text was completed by the Division of Public Works.

The CCHE advised the College that the Commission had allocated to Fort Lewis College, $84,221.70 for “use in re-planning and adding to the unit cost of the Humanities-Fine Arts facilities” at Fort Lewis College.  Upon motion and second, the Board approved the additional amount to the planning budget for the project, which amount was allocated from the re-planning and development fund approved by the General Assembly for redesign and planning facilities whose appropriated funds and space had been reduced by the General Assembly.

A report item contained in the agenda stated that the Secretary of the State Board of Agriculture received a letter from the Regional Administrator of HUD indicating that the Fort Lewis College application “should not be approved at this time”.  The letter also indicated that the application was being withdrawn and the fund reservation in the amount of $1,500,000 was cancelled.  The letter invited the College’s participation in future HUD programs.

 

September 2, 1969 ~~ due to cancellation of the State Board of Agriculture meeting for August 22 and 23, 1969 the following items were discussed with the Executive Committee:

Mr. George King, Architect, completed the schematic design phase of the project to remodel the Life Science space, which has been approved by the College Staff.  The Executive Committee approved Mr. King’s work and authorized him to proceed with the design development phase of he project and to direct his efforts toward completion of the working drawings and contract documents for the project.

 

September 26, 1969 Colorado State Board of Agriculture meeting

The design development drawings for the Humanities-Fine Arts building were presented to the Board by Mr. Anderson from Wheeler and Lewis by using drawing of floor plans for illustration purposes.  Upon motion and second, the Board approved the design development drawings and authorized the architect to proceed with the preparation of working drawings for the project

Upon motion and second, the Board confirmed action taken by the Executive Committee August 27, 1969, to approve a contract with George King, Architect, for services required in connection with remodeling of the Life Science Space in the Academic Building.  Additionally, upon motion and second, the Board confirmed action taken by the Executive Committee to approve the schematic design and design development phase for Project 1627, and authorized Mr. King to work toward completion of working drawings and contract documents for the project.

Upon motion and second, the Board approved a contract with the Colorado Division of Highways under which the Department will provide engineering services and will supervise the project for the construction of a north access road to the Fort Lewis College at a fee of $77,550.

The General Assembly approved an appropriation for the Humanities-Fine Arts Building in the total amount of $835,201, of which $306,067 came from the Federal Facilities Act funds to construct a building consisting of 36,107 sq ft.  This was both a reduction in budget and size of the building as originally planned.  This caused the architectural drawings and specifications for the building to be revised and required an amendment to the design contract.  Upon motion and second, the Board approved an amendment to the contract with the Architectural Firm of Wheeler and Lewis to provide an additional payment amounting to $21,779.20 which was in addition to the original contract price.

 

December 11, 1969 Colorado State Board of Agriculture meeting

Mr. Anderson of Wheeler and Lewis explained to the Board that the plans for the project now provide 37,000 sq ft of space in the building at an estimated cost of $22.00 per sq ft.  The available construction budget is $890,000 and includes site preparation.  The building will have a rough stone exterior to conform to all buildings on campus.  The plans for the interior include carpeting throughout the building, which will be bid as a deductive alternate.  The carpeting is Antron 300, made by Lee and is the newest and most durable carpet on the market at this time.  Upon motion and second, the Board approved the final working drawings and specifications for the Humanities-Fine arts Building.

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Chapter III: The early 1970s

February 27, 1970 Colorado State Board of Agriculture meeting

The results of the bid opening held on February 26, 1970 for the construction of a Physical Education Building, Project No. 1409, at Fort Lewis College were presented to the Board.  President Berndt explained that Flaugh Construction Co. of Cortez, Colorado was the apparent lowest bidder for the project although their bid exceeded that budget by $195,000.  Mr. Kelsey, Architect, explained that deductive alternates and the bidding climate for this project were very good.  He further explained that there were a significant number of bids received and that the interest of subcontractors in the project was substantial.  In spite of these favorable conditions, the low bid exceeded the budget by some 27%.  President Berndt requested the Board to approve the submission of a request to the Joint Budget Committee for a supplemental appropriation in the amount of $195,000 to complete the financing of the project and permit acceptance of the low bid.  Upon motion and second, the Board approved the submission of the supplemental request to the Joint Budget Committee, and, by the same motion, authorized acceptance of the bid submitted by Flaugh Construction Co. if the Legislature acts favorably upon the supplemental appropriation request.  If the request is not approved, the Board directed that the construction of the building not be undertaken at this time.

President Berndt informed the Board that bids had been opened in the Office of the District Engineer, Colorado Department of Highways, Durango, Colorado, February 10, 1070 for the construction work involved in Project 1537, the improvement of the existing south access road to the campus, and Project 1628, the construction of a new access road to the campus.  The bids were submitted on the basis of itemized lists of the types of work to be completed and the costs involved.  The low bid exceeded the budget for the project as designed by $42,795.20.  On February 11, 1970, a request was submitted to the Joint Budget Committee requesting a supplemental appropriation in the same amount to complete the financing of the project.  On February 17, 1970, the College was advised that the request for supplemental funds had been rejected and that no funds would be available for the improvement of the existing Goeglein Gulch Road.  President Berndt went on to say that the Colorado Department of Highways is currently negotiating with the apparent low bidder, the Siegrist Construction Co. in an attempt to reach an agreement on the cost of constructing the two phases of the work previously authorized by the Legislature.  In this connection, the College has been advised that the Joint Budget Committee approved combining the two projects and would authorize the use of money for them.  Upon motion and second, the Board acknowledged the receipt of the report on the opening of bids for the projects, and, by the same motion concurred with the submission of a request of supplemental funds even though the request was rejected by the Joint Budget Committee.

The College had been advised by the Regional Office of the Department of Housing and Urban Development, that HUD is now accepting applications for loan assistance for dormitory construction and would continue to accept applications until April 1, 1970.  Upon motion and second, the Board authorized the preparation and submission of an application for loan assistance for funds with which to finance the construction of a dormitory complex to accommodate 100 single students at an estimated cost not to exceed $500,000.

The College was informed by the CCHE that $20,000 will be allocated out of appropriations made to the Commission for planning purposes for the current year for a campus master-planning project.  The Board had previously authorized the employment of Lamar Kelsey & Associates, Architects and Planners, to perform the campus master-planning study.  The CCHE has further advised that, since it is apparent that the total cost of the project will be in excess of $20,000, and additional allocation will be made to the College out of funds appropriated to the Commission for planning purposes by the current session of the General Assembly.  Upon motion and second, the Board authorized the preparation and submission of a project application to the Commission on Higher Education for additional funds to complete the financing of a master plan for the campus.

In order to complete the north access road to the campus it is necessary to join that road with the existing Goeglein Gulch Road, which is a county road.  Any such interchange with the county road requires the approval of the County Commissioners.  Hence, the Board was asked to approve an agreement with the La Plata County Board of County Commissioners.  Upon motion and second, the Board approved an agreement with the Board of County Commissioners of La Plata County, Colorado under which the College is permitted to join the north access road with the county road known as Goeglein Gulch Road and to erect a road sign bearing the symbol and word “Yield” as a traffic control for motor vehicle traffic entering upon La Plata County Road No. 10.

 

April 20, 1970 letter from Daniel E. Black, Business Manager to Robert Rank, City Manager (City of Durango)

 

April 11, 1970 Colorado State Board of Agriculture meeting

Upon motion and second, Board approval was granted to submit a project application in the amount of $146,000 appropriated by the Second Session of the 47^th General Assembly for the purchase of furnishings and movable equipment to be installed in the Humanities-Fine Arts Building, Project 1506.

Upon motion and second, Board approval was granted to submit a project application in the amount of $57,000 for the purchase of furnishings and moveable equipment to be installed in the Physical Education Building, Project 1409.  The Second Session of the 47th General Assembly had appropriated funds.

On March 31, 1970 the College was informed that an additional $10,950 was made available, by the Colorado Commission on Higher Education for the master-planning project from funds appropriated by the Legislature.  Upon motion and second, the Board approved the submission of a project application to the CCHE to amend the previous application from $20,000 to $39,950 for the preparation of the Master Plan for the development of the Fort Lewis College campus.

 

April 22, 1970 letter from Robert Rank, City Manager to Daniel E. Black, Business Manager

 

June 26, 1970 Colorado State Board of Agriculture meeting

It was reported that the additional $10,950 that the Colorado Commission on Higher Education made available to the College in fact could not be used for master-planning purposes but the intent in the appropriation to the CCHE had been for the use of funds for program planning projects.  The Commission allocated $6,950 to the College for program planning for a general classroom building and $4,000 for the preparation of a program plan for a dramatics addition to the Fine Arts Building.  Upon motion and second, the Board approved the submission of project applications in the above mentioned amounts for the development of program plans for a new classroom building and the addition to the Fine Arts Building.

Upon motion and second, the Board approved the employment of Lamar Kelsey and Associates as consultants in the preparation of the program plan for the classroom building and the program plan for the addition to the Fine Arts Building.

The results of the bids, which were opened on May 28, 1970 for the construction of the Fine Arts Building, Project 1506 at Fort Lewis College were reported to the Board.  Upon motion and second, the Board confirmed the action taken by the Executive Committee to award the general contract for the construction of the Humanities-Fine Arts Building to the Flaugh Construction Co, of Cortez, Colorado in the amount of $890,000.

Upon motion and second, the Board approved the relocation of the Industrial Arts Building to a site located immediately south of the Physical Plant Complex at a cost not to exceed $6,500, to be paid from the 1970-71 capital outlay budget, and with the understanding such work is to be accomplished within the next six to eight weeks.

President Berndt reported the contractor building the Physical Education Building is well ahead of schedule and that the general progress on the building is going very well.  The Humanities-Fine Arts Building will be under construction on June 29, 1970.

At its meeting May 12 1970, the Board requested reports be presented to it concerning the losses incurred through the reduced size of buildings and reduced budgets for the construction of buildings brought about by action of the Joint Budget Committee and finally by the General Assembly.  Mr. Black, Business Manager, presented the following report to indicate those projects affected by action of the General Assembly, the extent to which they were affected both in size and in budget, and to report that during the period the buildings were being redesigned costs of construction increased significantly.

Fort Lewis College had two major projects which were reduced in size and scope as a result of the appropriations in the Long Bill passed by the first session of the 47^th General Assembly.

	Project 1409 Physical Education Building
	Square Footage of Original Design	53,663
	Square Footage Reduced by General Assembly	12,638
	Square Footage Reduction due to Project Budget Inadequacy	3,025
	Revised Project Square Footage	38,000
	1969 -70 Capital Construction Request	$1,246,800
	Appropriation by the 1969 General Assembly	820,500
	Amount of Project Budget Reduction	$426,300
	Project 1506 Humanities Fine Arts Classroom Building
	Square Footage of Original Design	57,000
	Square Footage Reduced by General Assembly	20,893
	Revised Project Square Footage	36,107
	1969 -70 Capital Construction Request	$1,283,400
	Appropriation by the 1969 General Assembly	835,201
	Amount of Project Budget Reduction	$448,199

As a result of these actions:

1.          Additional costs incurred because of redesign of the facilities.

2.          Bids delayed one year and a more unfavorable climate for bidding.

3.          Neither facility meets the requirements of the respective program plans.

4.          Both facilities will be inadequate for the needs of the College the day they are completed.

 

August 14, 1970 Colorado State Board of Agriculture meeting

On June 30, 1970 the College was advised by HUD that a tentative debt service grant fund reservation in the amount of $16,500 on an annual basis had been made to Fort Lewis College to support a loan from private sources in the amount of $500,000 for the construction of a new dormitory to house approximately 99 single women students.  The submission of a loan request to DHUD was authorized by the Board at its meeting on February 27, 1970.  On July 8, 1970 the College was advised that the previous authorization of the Board did not specifically provide for the execution of Form HYD-41901, Assurance of Compliance with Civil Rights Act of 1964.  Upon motion and second, the Board approved the resolution authorizing the President of the College to submit the full application and preliminary financing plan and Assurance of Compliance with the Civil Rights Act of 1964.

Upon motion and second, the Board confirmed action taken by the Executive Committee to approve employment of Tallmadge and Tallmadge to serve as bond counsel for the preparation of legal documents required for the issuance of revenue bonds to finance the construction of a dormitory at Fort Lewis College.

 

September 26, 1970 Colorado State Board of Agriculture meeting

Mr. Paul Willis, Project Director for EG & F, Inc., Environmental Services Operation, of Durango, Colorado requested in writing from Daniel E. Black, Business Manager the approval for lease of a site on the campus approximately 100’ X 100’ in size, located east of the Maintenance Shops.  Mr. Willis proposed to use the site for release and tracking of rawinsonde units, which will provide the upper air data profile input of temperature, water vapor and wind to the cloud seeding decision model.  This project is established under contract with the Bureau of Reclamation for conducting cloud seeding operations in connection with the Colorado River Basin Pilot Project and operated under a detailed design prepared by CSU and in which CSU and Fort Lewis College are both participants.  Mr. Willis proposed to pay $200 per year for the site for a five-year lease.  Upon motion and second, the Board approved the lease of a site for the purposes described by Mr. Paul Willis.

President Berndt informed the Board that some interest exists in a proposal for the leasing of State-owned land principally within the campuses of the institutions of higher learning for privately financed construction of student housing facilities.  The plan provides that the land be leased to private individuals who will finance the construction of student housing facilities with the understanding the facilities will be leased back to the institution for its use.  In connection with this discussion, the Boulder plan for funding capital construction was also discussed.

 

November 23 1970 letter from President Berndt to Robert Brown, Mayor, City of Durango

 

December 9, 1970 Colorado State Board of Agriculture meeting

President Berndt recommended that the Board give consideration to asking the General Assembly to amend statutory authority of the State Board of Agriculture in a manner which would permit the Board to lease land for private development of dormitories, living, dining and group housing facilities.  In this connection, the Executive Committee of the Board was informed that consideration is being given to a request for Board approval to submit a similar request to the General Assembly, which would authorize the Board to lease land to private individuals for the development of facilities that will be compatible with the CSU program  President Berndt, along this line, provided a copy of a letter from Dr. H. Grant Vest, Executive Secretary for the Trustees of State Colleges in Colorado, which shows that the Legislature approved statutory authority for the Trustees of State Colleges to “lease portions of the college grounds of Colorado State College and Southern Colorado State College to private persons and groups  for the construction of dormitory, living, dining or cottage buildings”.  Dr. Vest also stated that the Trustees had such authority for Western State College and Adams State College prior to the recent action of the General Assembly.  Upon motion and second, the Executive Committee referred this matter to the Secretary to coordinate with the General Assembly and to seek the introduction of the desired legislation.

It was brought to the attention of the Board, by the Secretary, that Mr. Warren Shear, of Oklahoma City, Oklahoma had submitted a request for a coal-mining lease on the Hesperus Reservation.  It was brought up so that discussions could occur with President Berndt and his staff and reports were presented to the Board from the Colorado Experimental Station staff.  The Board discussed the concern of the Experiment Station staff, and news-paper clippings and other reports from outside interests in the San Juan Basin, all of which expressed considerable concern regarding air pollution from coal-operated generating plants in the four-corners area.  President Berndt recommended that the Board turn down the proposition.  Upon motion and second, the Executive Committee approved a recommendation to the State Land Board that the lease be denied.

January 29, 1971 Colorado State Board of Agriculture meeting

Lamar Kelsey, Architect, presented the long range plan prepared by his firm for Fort Lewis College.  He used projectors and slides to illustrate the significant features of the master plan.  President Berndt recommended approval of the master plan.  Upon motion and second, the Board approved the master plan for campus development, Project 1701, as presented by the Architect.

Lamar Kelsey, Architect, presented the program plan prepared by his firm for a General Classroom and Office Building, Project 1749, at Fort Lewis College.  President Berndt recommended approval of the program plan.  Upon motion and second, the Board approved the program plan for the project as presented by the Architect.

Lamar Kelsey, Architect, presented the program plan prepared by his firm for a Dramatics Addition to the Fine Art Building at Fort Lewis College, Project 1748.  President Berndt recommended approval of the program plan.  Upon motion and second, the Board approved the program plan for the project as presented by the Architect.

 

March 5, 1971 Colorado State Board of Agriculture meeting

Discussion came up again concerning the request for a lease for coal exploration and development.  The item had been discussed at he December 9, 1970 meeting where the Board recommended that the State Board of Land Commissioners not grant a lease.  Mr. Dennis Smith, representing the Big Chief Drilling Co. met with the Board during the January 29, 1971 meeting and had requested further consideration of the matter.  Board member, Dr. Thimmig and the Secretary met with the Land Board on February 23, 1971 to further discuss the problem.  It was the feeling of the Board that they should approve a statement of policy concerning the use of the land on the Hesperus campus.  Board members Mr. Monfort and Mr. Bush along with Resident Counsel were requested to prepare a statement for the Board to consider at a later date.

The following item was contained in the report Section of the State Board Agenda.

The City Council Tuesday evening (February 16, 1971) agreed to sell to Fort Lewis College a parcel of land adjoining the campus at the northwest corner for “a nominal fee to be set by the City Manager and City Attorney.”

It was reported to the Council “approximately six acres, the site of the old City Reservoir, is wanted by the College for parking, to extend the playing field and for buildings.  He said the buildings are in the long-range and have been approved by the proper State Authorities.  The council voted to allow the City Manager and Attorney to enter into an agreement for the sale of the property.”

It is believed the sale price will be approximately $600.  This sum will be requested from the Fort Lewis Foundation.

April 9, 1971 Colorado State Board of Agriculture meeting

President Berndt informed the Board that the six old dormitories and the old Miller Student Union Building are in dire need of renovation and remodeling.  The need to renovate the dormitory buildings and to remodel the old Miller Student Union is base on the fact no renovations or remodels have occurred since the facilities were initially constructed.  The remodel of the cafeteria portion of Miller must be accomplished as a means of improving the use of the facility.  President Berndt felt that the remodeling could be accomplished with funds now held by the College.  Upon motion and second, Board approval was granted for the College to proceed with plans for the remodeling of Miller Student Union Cafeteria.

President Berndt informed the Board that a need exists on the campus for more students housing.  There are no prospects for expansion of privately owned student housing in the Durango area.  This fact makes it necessary for an expansion of campus housing to accommodate the increased numbers of students expected to enroll at the College in future years.  Upon motion and second, the Board approved the submission of an application to the DHUD for the reservation of $500,000 to finance construction of a new dormitory to contain 100 beds, to be available by the summer of 1974; and, by the same motion approved the submission of an application for $150,000 to be used to renovate the old dormitories on the campus.

April 21, 1971 City of Durango transfers remaining property of former City Reservoir to State Board of Agriculture

A Deed was created whereby for consideration of Ten Dollars and other valuable considerations, City of Durango conveyed a tract of land lying and being in the SW1/4 SE1/4 of Section 20 and the NW1/4 NE1/4 of Section 29, all in Township 35 North, Range 9 West, N.M.P.M, and being mort particularly described as follows, to-wit: (Followed by complete metes and bounds description containing 3.082 acres, more or less.)

Excepting and Reserving unto the Grantor herein all of the water line easements shown on the plat hereto attached and made a part hereof as Exhibit “B” by reference, and does hereby reserve the right of ingress and egress to and from said easements, together with the right to maintain the pipelines, valves and fittings therein contained, and the right to place other utility lines in said easement.

This Deed is made subject to all easements for buried cable and overhead utilities shown on said Exhibit “B” including the right to maintain the same and to trim interfering trees. 

The Warranty Deed was filed under Reception No. 364287 on April 30, 1971.

 

May 12, 1971 Colorado State Board of Agriculture meeting

President Berndt informed the Board that no funds were appropriated by the first session of the 48^th General Assembly to finance the installation of seats in the new Physical Education Building.  He reported an effort was made by Senator Armstrong to obtain passage of an amendment to the existing statute to authorize the Board to issue revenue bonds with which to finance the purchase of seats.  Under this plan, the revenue bond issue would be secured through the assessment of a special fee on the students enrolled at Fort Lewis College.  The bill did not pass the Legislature and as a consequence the Board is without authority and without funds with which to finance the installation of seats in the building.  President Berndt recommended the only possible alternative is to require spectators and students who may use the building to stand during periods when such use is made.

 

June 29, 1971 Colorado State Board of Agriculture meeting

President Berndt informed the Board that the punch-list inspection for the Physical Education Building is scheduled for the week of July 5, 1971.  He also informed the Board that both the Fine Arts Building and the Physical Education Building will be completed and available for occupancy by the opening of school in September 1971.

 

October 22, 1971 Colorado State Board of Agriculture meeting

President Berndt reported that the Commission on Higher Education at its meeting September 27, 1971 approved the allocation of $60,000 for the purchase of bleacher-type seats for the new Physical Education Building from the special appropriation made to the Commission by the 1969 session of the General Assembly in the amount of $350,000 for physical re-planning and development of capital projects.  President Reed reported that even though this allocation is within the intent of the Legislature, it was necessary that the State’s Capital Construction Committee make the final approval of the allocation.

 

January 28, 1972 Colorado State Board of Agriculture meeting

On May 13, 1971, the College submitted an application to DHUD for a loan assistance to finance construction of a new dormitory and to renovate six of the oldest dormitories on campus.  The application for loan assistance was in the amount of $650,000 to finance debt service associated with the construction of housing facilities to accommodate 100 single students.  On January 14, 1971, the College was notified that application has been given preliminary approval and a preliminary reservation of funds in the amount of $16,900; the estimated amount of the annual debt service was approved.  Since that time College staff has directed considerable effort toward the refinement of the plan with special attention to the total housing needs for the Fort Lewis College campus.  As a result of these efforts, the administrative staff of the College concluded the construction of new dormitory facilities on the east side of campus should not be undertaken and some new construction to expand and improve existing facilities should be accomplished.  Upon motion and second, the Board approved a change in plans for housing at Fort Lewis College and directed the discontinuance of planning for construction of new housing facilities and to concentrate efforts on the renovation, remodeling and some expansion of existing dormitory facilities.  By this action the Board authorized the submission of a revised application to DHUD in the amount of $825,000 as a grant subsidy for financing the revised project and authorized the submission of a program plan for these projects to the Colorado Commission on Higher Education.

 

March 3, 1972 Colorado State Board of Agriculture meeting

President Berndt informed the Board that Mr. John Otto, Chief, College Housing Office, DHUD, advised him that the two previous applications for funds have been combined into a single project.  The previous applications covered renovation and remodeling of the old dormitories and construction of a new dormitory.  The annual interest subsidy to be provided the College by HUD is approved in the amount of $24,750 to meet interest payments above 3% on a bond issue of $750,000.  President Berndt recommended the employment of Mr. George King as architect for the project.  Upon motion and second, the Board authorized President Berndt to negotiate a contract for architectural services for the project, with the understanding the final contract for this work would be brought back to the Board for its approval.

Upon motion and second, the Board authorized President Berndt to negotiate with Mr. Robert Tallmadge, Bond Counsel, to provide necessary legal services involved in the issuance of $750,000 of revenue bonds with which to finance the project.  This action was taken with the understanding the conditions under which the bond counsel is to be employed will be presented to the Board for its approval at a later date.

 

September 22, 1972 Colorado State Board of Agriculture meeting

Mr. George King, Architect, presented and discussed the architectural plans for the dormitory renovation, remodeling and construction of dormitories, Project 1855, at Fort Lewis College with members of the Board.  Upon motion and second, the Board approved the architectural drawings for the project; and, by the same motion authorized the submission of these architectural drawings to the Division of Public Works and to the Department of Housing and Urban Development for approval.  In taking this action the Board also authorized advertising for bids for construction work involved in this project, subject to approval of plans and specifications by the Colorado Division of Public Works and DHUD.

President Berndt advised the Board $110,000 was appropriated by the last session of the General Assembly for road improvements on the College campus.  The road involved is of a perimeter nature extending from the top of the curve east of the College Union Building and continuing in a northerly direction to the Goeglein Gulch access road to the campus.  The program plan for this project was approved by the CCHE and by the required State agencies.  To complete the project in the best possible manner, the College negotiated a contract with the Colorado Department of Highways.  Upon motion and second, the Board approved a contract with the Colorado Department of Highways, who will provide the plan, design, engineering and construction of the project for a fee not to exceed $110,000.

At the December, 1971 meeting, the Board authorized the College to negotiate with Federal, State and local agencies as a means of obtaining funds with which to construct outdoor playing fields and recreational facilities at the north side of the campus known as the Old Reservoir site.  President Berndt informed the Board that the Colorado Department of Game and Fish has approved a grant in the amount of $78,741 for the project; the Four Corners Commission had approved a grant of $47,245; the Fort Lewis College Foundation had provided $15,000; and the balance amounting to $16,000 would be provided in the form of “input in kind” from Fort Lewis College.  Upon motion and second, Board approval was granted for the College to proceed with the detailed planning of the project as the first step in preparation of specifications necessary for inviting bids for construction of the projects.  President Berndt indicated it is the College’s belief that construction on the project will begin March 1973, with completion anticipated in October 1973 and the first use of the facilities will possibly be made by April 1974.

An item in the report Section of the Board Agenda stated that during the past several months the

College has been in the process of developing necessary documentation and plats for the annexation of the old Golf Course site and the reservoir site into the City of Durango.  The plats prepared by the Land Surveyor, Robert Ernst of Durango will be ready for inspection by the Board at the meeting on September 22.  It is recommended that the Board approve the annexation and to authorize its President to sign the necessary annexation documents.

 

December 13, 1972 Colorado State Board of Agriculture meeting

Upon motion and second, the Board approved the program plan prepared for the Classroom and Office Building at Fort Lewis College as a prerequisite to a request for capital construction funds with which to finance the installation of the facility; and, by the same motion authorized the submission of the program plan to the Colorado Commission on Higher Education for approval.

Upon motion and second, the Board approved the program plan prepared for the Natatorium at Fort Lewis College as a prerequisite to a request for capital construction funds with which to finance the installation of the facility; and, by the same motion authorized the submission of the program plan to the Colorado Commission on Higher Education for approval.

Upon motion and second, the Board approved the program plan prepared for the Water Distribution System at Fort Lewis College as a prerequisite to a request for capital construction funds with which to finance the installation of the facility; and, by the same motion authorized the submission of the program plan to the Colorado Commission on Higher Education for approval.

 

March 2, 1973 Colorado State Board of Agriculture meeting

Upon motion and second, the Board approved a loan agreement with DHUD under which terms and conditions for the interest subsidy grant on revenue bonds to be issued by the State Board of Agriculture to finance construction and renovation of dormitories, Project CH-Colo-86 (D) at Fort Lewis College were established.

Upon motion and second, the Board approved the employment of Tallmadge and Tallmadge as Bond Counsel for the issuance of the revenue bonds for the project.

Upon motion and second, the Board approved the employment of Boettcher and Company as Financial Advisors and as Bond Agents for the project.

 

April 20 1973 Colorado State Board of Agriculture meeting

Results of the bids for the construction of Project CH-Colo-86 (D) State No. 1855, Dormitory Construction and Renovation, which had been opened on March 13, 1973, were reported to the Board.  Upon motion and second, the Board approved the bid submitted by Flaugh Construction Co. of Cortez, Colorado, in the amount of $715,000 as the apparent lowest and best bid received for the project.  This figure was approved because of the fact the low bid submitted by Flaugh was $78,654 over the budget.  In approving the contract with the Flaugh Construction Co. the Board approved deductive alternate No. 1 thereby reducing the base bid from $747,500 to $715,000. 

At the time the bids were opened and analyzed, it was found that the low bid submitted by Flaugh Construction Co. was $78,654 in excess of the amount available for the project.  After a careful analysis of the budget and the project, the administrative staff of the College recommended and the Board approved, excepting Deductive Alternate No. 1 in the amount of $32,000 to reduce the construction contract for the project to $715,000.  The analysis also revealed that an additional $46,000 would be needed to fund the project at the revised level.  The Board was advised that a request had been submitted to DHUD for an increase in the federally guaranteed interest support to permit an increase in the revenue bond issue from $750,000 to $796,000.  The Board was also informed that the prospects for approval are not encouraging.  As a means of solving the problem the College administrative staff requested authorization to budget $46,000 of excess earnings in the Student Housing System Fund to complete the financing of this project.  Upon motion and second, the Board approved transfer of $46,000 of excess earnings to the project with the understanding that this transfer would only be made if the request to DHUD is denied.

President Berndt informed the Board that Mr. Robert Ernst, Engineer, had completed the necessary surveys and plats required for the annexation of the old golf course site owned by the Board and included in the Fort Lewis College campus into the City of Durango.  Upon motion and second, the Board approved the annexation of the old golf course site and the reservoir site, parts of the campus into the City of Durango.  By the same motion the Board authorized its President to sign the annexation documents necessary to complete this transaction 

President Berndt informed the Board that under the terms of a contract between the Board and the Colorado Department of Highways; the Department opened bids April 19, 1973 for the construction of a new road on campus and that the reported low bid received was in the amount of $86,000, which was $24,000 below the budget for the project.

President Berndt informed the Board that the plans for the development of recreational fields are progressing on schedule.  At this time the schedule calls for the preparation of plans and specifications for fields.  These plans are nearing completion and it is anticipated that work sill begin on the field by mid-May, 1973. The establishment of these playing fields will be significant assets to the College.

 

May 9, 1973 Colorado State Board of Agriculture meeting

Upon motion and second, the Board approved the resolution authorizing the issuance and sale of revenue bonds in the amount of $750,000 to finance the remodeling of six existing dormitories and the addition of three lounge-study facilities, each connecting two existing dormitory units on the Fort Lewis College campus.

 

June 19, 1973 Ordinance 1165 Annexation of College Fourth Addition

Whereas, there has heretofore been filed with the City Council of the City of Durango, in conformity with the provisions of the Municipal Annexation Act of 1965, set forth in 139-21 CRS 1963, as amended, a Petition for the Annexation to the City of Durango a tract of land to be known as College Fourth Addition to the City of Durango, which said Petition was accompanied by four copies of an annexation map; and

Whereas, the owner of 100% of the property in said College Fourth Addition to the City of Durango has petitioned for such annexation; and

Whereas, said Petition was accepted by the City Council of the City of Durango by Resolution passed and adopted on the 19^th day of June, 1973;

Now, Therefore, Be it ordained by the City Council of The City of Durango:

Section 1      That certain tract  of land known as College Fourth Addition to the City of Durango and more particularly described as follows, to wit: (Followed by a complete metes and boundaries description containing 84.025 acres, more of less) be, and the same hereby is, annexed to the City of Durango” according to the official plat thereof.

 

June 19, 1973 Ordinance 1166 Annexation of College Fourth Addition

Whereas, there has heretofore been filed with the City Council of the City of Durango, in conformity with the provisions of the Municipal Annexation Act of 1965, set forth in 139-21 CRS 1963, as amended, a Petition for the Annexation to the City of Durango a tract of land to be known as College Fifth Addition to the City of Durango, which said Petition was accompanied by four copies of an annexation map; and

Whereas, the owner of 100% of the property in said College Fifth Addition to the City of Durango has petitioned for such annexation; and

Whereas, said Petition was accepted by the City Council of the City of Durango by Resolution passed and adopted on the 19^th day of June, 1973;

Now, Therefore, Be it ordained by the City Council of The City of Durango:

Section 1      That certain tract  of land known as College Fifth Addition to the City of Durango and more particularly described as follows, to wit: (Followed by a complete metes and boundaries description containing 15.990 acres, more of less) be, and the same hereby is, annexed to the City of Durango” according to the official plat thereof.

 

June 29, 1973 Colorado State Board of Agriculture meeting

President Berndt informed the Board a group of Durango Developers has inquired about the purchase of the quarry site purchased by the Board in 1955.  This land was originally purchased as a permanent source of sandstone to be used in the construction of buildings on the Fort Lewis College campus.  While the Board has other land holdings from which sandstone can be acquired, this site is relatively close to the City, with easy access, whereas the other holdings are more difficult to reach.  Upon motion and second, the Board agreed that the land is not for sale.

Upon motion and second, the Board approved the submission of a project application for the approval of required State officials authorizing the use of $53,400 for physical planning; $565,000 for construction of a natatorium on the Fort Lewis College campus from funds provided for this project by the 1973 General Assembly.

Since the construction of a natatorium facility requires special capabilities, the College administration recommended the Board employ a firm of specialists for the design and construction of this project.  Upon motion and second, the Board approved the employment of a firm qualified in the design as well as the construction techniques for a natatorium.  By the same action, the College administration was directed to submit recommendations to the Board for consideration.

Upon motion and second, the Board authorized the submission of a project application to appropriate State officials for approval for the use of funds appropriated by the last session of he General Assembly to install a water distribution system on the Fort Lewis College campus.

Upon motion and second, Board approval was granted for the employment of the firm of Leach and Arnold to serve as the engineering firm for the design and construction of a sprinkler system to serve the recreation and playing fields authorized to be constructed on campus.

 

July 23, 1973 letter from Daniel E. Black, Business Manager to C. L. Terrell, Secretary of State Board of Agriculture

Copies of the ordinances that were enacted by the City Council of the City of Durango formally annexing both the College Fourth and Fifth Additions into the City of Durango were sent to the State Board of Agriculture for their records.

 

September 21, 1973 Colorado State Board of Agriculture meeting

President Berndt informed the Board that the new road to the campus is now completed and in use.  The paving on the road is not completed from the Chapel to the shops and that will be completed by the City of Durango.  He reported the new road is somewhat deficient in lighting but that is being corrected and should be completed soon.  The new road provides much safer access to the campus, which has been of major concern to the College administrative staff.

President Berndt informed the Board that the contractor for the Dormitory Construction and Renovation project is considerably behind schedule to the point that the plan to move into the facility by September 25^th probably cannot be accomplished.  He reported this is a very bad situation for the College to be in.

Mr. George King, Architect, for the natatorium project, discussed the problems associated with the project with the Board.  He reported that the rapidly increasing costs of construction make it necessary to consider alternate procedures for building the new swimming pool.  The General Assembly appropriated $661,000 for this project, which was considered sufficient to build a building in the Physical Education Complex area to house the swimming pool and its associated facilities.  Because of the fact construction costs are increasing at a very rapid rate, Mr. King informed the Board it is now advisable to consider placing the swimming pool in the old Gymnasium facility and to include deductive alternates for bidding to include adding a building on the south side of the old Gymnasium facility in order to compensate for some of the space that would be lost by placing a pool in the old Gymnasium itself.  Upon motion and second, Board approval was granted to proceed with an investigation of alternatives for the construction of the swimming pool project, with the understanding other projects will be studied as a means of getting additional information, the proposal must be cleared with the Division of Public Works, and a determination be made for possible adjustments in the program plan for the project.  The recommended alternatives will be reported to the Board for its consideration and approval.

 

November 2, 1973 Colorado State Board of Agriculture meeting

President Berndt informed the Board that the Division of Public Works endorsed the plan to locate the swimming pool in the old Gymnasium building and concluded that this radical departure from the original program plan should be reported and approval received from the Colorado Commission on Higher Education.  Subsequently President Berndt and College administrative staff met with the Director and his staff of the CCHE on October 3, 1973.  As a result of the meeting it was apparent that a revision of the program plan would be required for the CCHE prior to taking action of the revised program.  Additionally, it was the opinion of the Director that this revision was a departure from the legislative intent and would require review and approval by the Joint Budget Committee.  Upon motion and second, the Board approved the modifications of the schematic plan and directed President Berndt to present the revised plan to the Joint Budget Committee for its consideration.  By the same motion the Architect was authorized to proceed with the design development phase of the project on the modified plan, subject to approval by the Joint Budget Committee. 

Bids for the construction of hard surface playing courts, tennis courts and storage room/comfort station were scheduled to be opened on August 2, 1973.  Only one bid was received and that was for the storage room/comfort station, which was considerably in excess of the budget for the project.  As a result of this experience, revisions were made to the specifications and bids were called for again with an opening on September 18, 1973.  The bid for the storage room/comfort station was again considerably in excess of the budget and was rejected.  The bid submitted by the Mesa Paving Co. for construction of the tennis courts, the hard surface playing courts and the sidewalks was the apparent lowest and best bid received, and, by taking the deductive alternates, was within the budget.  Upon motion and second, the Board approved the bid submitted by the Mesa Paving Company as the apparent lowest and best bid and by the same motion approved a contract with Mesa Paving Company.

 

December 12, 1973 Colorado State Board of Agriculture meeting

President Berndt reported the revised plans for the Fort Lewis College Natatorium, Project No. 1929, were approved by the Joint Budget Committee November 27, 1973.  He reported the Joint Budget Committee would recommend to the General Assembly a change in the wording of the Long Bill so that Fort Lewis College can proceed to build the swimming pool under the revised plans.

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This document was researched and prepared by Joseph P. Perino, [Former] Director, Facilities Planning, Fort Lewis College, Durango, Colorado, 2005, and was formatted for online display by Todd Ellison, Archivist, Center of Southwest Studies, in July 2006.

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Page last modified: July 05, 2006