ERBM highlights community impact, operational efficiency in 2024 Annual Report

Eastern Rio Blanco Metropolitan Recreation & Park District (ERBM) has released its 2024 Annual Report, showcasing a year of growth, change, innovation, and meaningful community impact.

In April 2024, ERBM welcomed Josh Embrey as its new Executive Director. Since joining the team, Josh has focused on strengthening internal operations and supporting staff across all departments. While he's kept a low public profile, his leadership has been instrumental in guiding the organization through a year of transition and renewed teamwork. ERBM also welcomed Tawnee Buhler as Aquatics Supervisor and JW Squire as Parks & Facilities Maintenance Supervisor, key leadership roles within the organization.

Overall, ERBM recorded 38,500 visits to the Meeker Recreation Center. More than 43,000 uses of the Meeker Trail system were captured by counters at Sanderson Hills, Ute Park, and 7th Street trailheads. Recreational activities attracted more than 2,000 enrollments, bolstered by new offerings like Nerf Wars and Little Athletes. Meanwhile, residents and visitors also enjoyed a full spectrum of community events, including the Meekerpalooza summer concert series in partnership with Meeker Chamber and Meeker Arts and Cultural Council, the Father Daughter Ball, and Pumpkins Eats N’ Treats.

“This year, I’m most proud of our team’s commitment to collaboration,” said Executive Director Josh Embrey. “That teamwork translated into streamlined operations and greater efficiency across all departments.”

The report also highlights key financial achievements, including a $212,000 cost savings with a staff restructure, and over $20,000 donated to local nonprofits. The District maintained a $9.78 million fund balance and remains focused on long-term sustainability.

“ERBM plays a vital role in Meeker by providing social, economic, and environmental benefits through our programs, parks, and community spaces,” Embrey added. “We remain dedicated to creating safe, welcoming experiences that enrich the lives of our residents and visitors.”

Looking ahead, ERBM plans to enhance services while continuing to prioritize financial responsibility and operational excellence. “Our role in the community will continue evolving as we align our services with the needs of the people we serve,” Embrey said.

2024 Annual Report

Our Mission

ERBM Recreation & Park District creates year-round recreational, cultural, and outdoor experiences that improve well-being and promote a vibrant community for the residents, visitors, and future generations of Eastern Rio Blanco County.

Our Values

Open Communication ∙ Operational Excellence ∙ Quality Service ∙ Stewardship

MRC Usage

› 38,500 visits to Meeker Rec Center

Emergency Service Personnel:

- 41 members, 1,085 visits

Corporate Memberships:

- 13 participants, 913 visits

Trail Usage

› 20,800 visits

Sanderson Hills Trailhead

› 11,134 visits

Ute Park Trailhead

Usage Record: 1,874 visits, May 2024

› 11,130 visits

7th Street Trailhead

Usage Record: 2,314 visits, May 2024

Program Participation

› 2,086 enrollments

New programs:

Nerf Wars, Little Athletes

2024 Highlight:

Our Meeker Marlins swim team won the state championship for the fourth year in a row!

Community Events

Cardboard Derby, Inflatable Pool Parties, Mother Daughter Tea, Hunter Education, Father Daughter Ball, Bounce N’ Splash, Adult Trips, Meekerpalooza, Run for Your Life 5K, Stars N’ Stripes 3-on-3 Basketball Tournament, Run Club, Pumpkins Eats N’ Treats, Breakfast with Santa

Volunteers

86 volunteers

920 hours of service

Volunteer of the Year:

Kristi Wilson, 56 hours of service

Employee Incentives

Total Compensation Rewards Philosophy Plan

Created and implemented

$2,200 Employee Scholarships

Recipients: Emily Hamm, Allison Kobald, and Nora Gianinetti

Financials

$9.78 million

Fund Balance

$4.78 million

Total Revenue

$3.65 million

Total Expenses

$212,000

Cost savings due to elimination of 3 positions and absorption of duties by current staff

$20,000

Donated to 7 nonprofits

$8,600

Financial aid awarded to 44 residents

Projects

Cyber Attack Restoration & System Rebuild

- $182,000 insurance claim

New Security System

- $40,000

Pool Roof and Environment

- Natatorium envelope testing

- PoolPak optimization

Circle Park Phase II Meeker Riverfront Project

- Revised project scope; $365,000 commitment

Leisure Pool & Deck Resurfacing

- $200,000 TextureDEK non-slip coating

Arc Trainer Replacement

- $10,800

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