County residents weigh budgets, safety training, and holiday events
Local notices posted November 20 outlined a public hearing on the South Central Council of Governments budgets, a self defense meet and greet at Trinidad State College, and community holiday events including a market and the 26th Annual Parade of Lights. These items matter because budget decisions shape regional services, safety training reaches vulnerable residents, and seasonal commerce and celebrations support local businesses and social cohesion.
A public hearing convened on November 20 to solicit citizen input on the amended 2025 and proposed 2026 budgets for the South Central Council of Governments. Copies of the budgets were available for review at SCCOG offices at 300 S. Bonaventure in Trinidad and at 211 Elder Street in Walsenburg. Residents who wished to join the hearing by Zoom were asked to contact Donna Sue at SCCOG at 719 845 1133, Extension 223 for a link.
Although the notice did not list specific line items, the SCCOG budget process has direct implications for services that cross municipal boundaries, including regional planning, transportation coordination, and the administration of grants that support seniors, low income households, and public safety resources. Local input during the hearing provides a mechanism for residents and advocacy groups to raise concerns about equity in resource allocation and to press for investments that reduce barriers to health care access and mobility across Las Animas County.
Earlier in the week, Trinidad State College Continuing Education hosted a meet and greet on November 17 for instructor Jerry Cash to introduce self defense course offerings. The session at the Sullivan Center, 600 Prospect Street, invited prospective students to learn about beginning and advanced self defense options and classes tailored to women. Programs that build personal safety skills can complement public safety efforts and offer community members practical tools to reduce harm, particularly for populations that face higher risks or limited access to traditional safety resources.
Looking ahead, Trinidad will mark the holiday season on Saturday, November 29 with a Holiday Market and the 26th Annual Parade of Lights. The market will run from 11 a.m. to 4 p.m. at Space to Create Trinidad, 210 W. Main Street, and aims to boost sales for local small businesses during a crucial retail period. The parade will proceed down Main Street from east to west and conclude on Animas Street, beginning at 6 p.m. An after party at the Space to Create will include photo opportunities with Santa and announcement of parade winners. Vehicle and float entry forms must be submitted by Monday, November 24 with a $35 registration fee. First responders may enter for free unless they are competing. Organizers provided additional details at HometownHolidaysTrinidad.com.
Taken together, these notices reflect routine but consequential civic rhythms. Budget hearings shape which services are funded. Community education offerings and safety training address immediate needs for personal security. Seasonal markets and parades sustain local economies and social ties that are essential to resilience in a largely rural county. Residents who want to review budget documents, join the SCCOG hearing, sign up for classes, or participate in the parade were directed to the listed locations and contacts to make their voices and needs known.
