BOSC awards Oak Thorn for open space leadership and discusses fundraising strategies

Boulder City’s Open Space Board of Trustees (BOSC) meeting on June 13, 2025, highlighted significant community engagement and funding strategies aimed at enhancing local open space initiatives. A key moment was the recognition of Oak Thorn, a long-time advocate for open space preservation, who received the BOSC Legacy Award for his six decades of service.

The meeting featured discussions on the importance of community involvement and the need for continued financial support to maintain and improve existing open space assets. Board members emphasized the challenges posed by extreme weather events and increased visitor traffic, which have heightened the demand for maintenance and enhancements to existing facilities.

Jeff, a department representative, presented a detailed budget update, illustrating the necessity for additional funding despite existing sales tax revenues. He pointed out that a significant portion of the budget is allocated to capital maintenance, which includes upgrading facilities to withstand environmental challenges. The board is actively seeking to expand its corporate sponsorship program to better target community donations and enhance resource stewardship projects.

The meeting also fostered a collaborative atmosphere, with board members discussing potential fundraising strategies and community storytelling to bridge the gap between public funding and philanthropic support. New board member Sarah expressed her commitment to leveraging her fundraising experience to help articulate the impact of donations on open space initiatives.

As the meeting concluded, the board decided to postpone further budget discussions until July, allowing for more thorough preparation and community input. This decision reflects the board's commitment to transparency and collaboration with community stakeholders, ensuring that future projects align with the needs and desires of Boulder residents.