On August 1, 2025, the RAQC Board convened to discuss critical outreach strategies and stakeholder engagement regarding regional environmental initiatives in Colorado. The meeting highlighted the importance of educating the public and industry representatives about ongoing efforts to address environmental concerns, particularly in Fort Collins, where interest in these topics is growing.

A key focus of the discussion was the challenge of attracting participants to in-person meetings. Board members acknowledged that while they had utilized mailing lists from various industry and advocacy groups to promote the meeting, the commitment required for a full-day event often deterred attendance. The decision to hold an in-person meeting, rather than a hybrid model, was made to foster more meaningful interactions, despite the difficulties in securing a robust turnout.

Participants expressed concerns about the representation from the industry at previous meetings, noting that attendance was light. This raised questions about the effectiveness of outreach efforts and the need for clearer communication regarding the topics being discussed. The board recognized that many stakeholders may not fully understand the implications of the initiatives, particularly the term "indirect sources," which encompasses a broad range of facilities, including warehouses and entertainment venues.

To address these concerns, the board plans to refine its messaging and clarify what constitutes a "facility" in the context of their discussions. This clarification is essential for engaging local businesses and ensuring they understand how proposed regulations may impact them. The upcoming indirect source work group meeting on August 12 will be pivotal in developing more precise definitions and strategies for outreach.

In conclusion, the RAQC Board's meeting underscored the ongoing efforts to enhance public understanding and participation in environmental initiatives. As the board prepares for future discussions, the emphasis will be on improving communication and outreach to ensure that all stakeholders are informed and engaged in the decision-making process.