Decimated by the Colorado flu outbreak and Thansgiving travel plans, we were probably lucky to have the three who attended.
Schrepfer personnel were not represented, as they were unable to return a crew to the Ranch last week, but in conversation with
Pete Schrepfer yesterday, we expect to see at least one crew back the first of next week, with no known interruptions on the
horizon.
Dennis Scott reported by e-mail yesterday that the storage container people removed the unit yesterday morning and will adjust
their final bill downward.
Jim Davis reported on telephone calls and e-mails from property owners seeking clarification and historical information leading to
the completion loan. Though most everyone expressed some frustration, nearly all understand the value and importance of the
mission. Jim reminded each to be sure to register on the website to help keep pace with all important issues on the Ranch.
Jim Davis reported communication with Clyde Young, our consulting engineer, concerning a critique of his engineering study of
the water system, which will no doubt come up in the legal process. He has prepared a response to that and stands ready to
address it personally.
Jim Davis reiterated that the bonding company attorney has requested a delay of the mediation hearing until after the first of
the year. Our attorney, Mr. Winter is checking with Judge Haeger in Walsenburg, the mediator, about the new date and
emphasizing sooner than later. Our reponse to the Bankruptcy Court on the OPEC attorney's motion should be ready next
week.
John Sanders, who we appreciated coming and keeping us company, took the opportunity to bring himself up to speed on
where we are at and how we got there. Additionally, John had some technical questions on the telephone delivery system and
its components we could not answer. We will obtain a source of information for him for next weeks meeting.
Lastly, the outrageous conduct of International Bank personnel to slide through the Metro's operating bank account, without
notice or discussion, an equally outrageous legal bill, was discussed. Dennis Scott brought it to our attention last Friday, when
alerted by Tina at Bill Quigley's office. Jim Davis has given the information to Tom Grimshaw, counsel to the District, who
immediately questioned the legality of the action. Both Mr. DeGarbo and Mr. Schmeitz, presidents of the Trinidad and Raton
branches respectively, point the finger at each other, but the long and short of it is, our account was drafted without our
knowledge to pay a legal bill they had to know we would dispute.
On that unpleasant note, our meeting adjourned until Wednesday, December 3, 8:30 am, Holiday Inn.