Editor’s note: This story has be updated to include a statement from Kremmling Town Manager Jen MacPherson.

The town of Kremmling has welcomed Jen MacPherson as its new town manager. The town board of trustees had considered five candidates and then chose two finalists, MacPherson and Thadd Hargadine, in March. The trustees ultimately appointed MacPherson on April 13.

At its April 16 town board meeting, MacPherson presented her first town manager’s report.

“I’ve spent the past couple days prioritizing getting to know the people, taking tours of the town, getting up to speed on what the department heads are working on,” she told the trustees, adding that her main focus is on the town’s new water treatment plant.

MacPherson is a Colorado resident, and is from British Columbia. She has previously worked as head of capital for GreenMet, as well as investment manager for Resource Capital Funds. She is also a snowmobile instructor.

“I’m honored to serve as Kremmling’s town manager,” MacPherson said. “With a background in finance, economic development, and project execution — and roots in a small town up by Ketchikan — I understand the values that shape rural communities. I’m excited to call Kremmling home and look forward to working with its residents, businesses and board of trustees.”

In other business

Water treatment plant

Public works director Dillon Willson presented a 90% design for the town’s new water treatment plant. This ambitious project will replace its current plant which has operated since the 1970s.

The funding estimate for the town is currently just over $17.1 million. The town has chosen general contractors Hensel Phelps to lead the project. Trustees and staff members of the Front Range construction company discussed cost estimates of the design, such as demolishing the old plant, acquiring a new generator and completing earthwork.

Trustee Erik Woog expressed concern with the town’s ability to fully fund the project, but ultimately concluded he trusted town clerk Teagen Serres’ confidence in the cost estimates. The town board then unanimously approved funding this design. Now given the green light, Hensel Phelps can begin construction, slated for this spring.

Town infrastructure

Element Engineering presented a roadway condition master plan to help town staff plan and budget for future road improvements. 10% of the town’s road are in good condition, 55% are fair and 35% are poor and needing improvements, the report said.

Newly appointed town planner Alan Hassler discussed projects he is working on including the Grand Cliffs housing development of single family homes and duplexes. The development’s first resident will close on their home next week, according to the developer.

Summer schedule

The town discussed upcoming events, such as the Kentucky Derby Party and the Middle Park Fair & Rodeo, Music Market & Square, Kremmling Days and the Independence Day fireworks.