4CORE Faces Challenges as Federal Funding Dwindles
Significant federal budget cuts have led to immediate operational changes for a Durango-based nonprofit focused on clean energy initiatives. The Four Corners Office for Resource Efficiency (4CORE) recently experienced substantial setbacks following a reduction in congressionally approved funding, which forced a reduction in services and staff layoffs.
Solar panels on the roof of the Smiley Building on East Third Avenue in Durango where the Four Corners Office for Resource Efficiency is headquartered. 4CORE recently lost more than half a million dollars in congressionally approved funding for rural and low-income community clean energy initiatives, resulting in curtailing services and laying off employees. (Durango Herald file)
On October 2, the U.S. Department of Energy announced a reduction of over $7.5 billion in funding initially approved to support 223 energy projects across the nation. The Department deemed these projects ineffective in meeting the country’s energy requirements and not economically beneficial for taxpayers.
Among the affected was 4CORE, which planned to use a portion of these funds for clean energy and efficiency projects in Southwest Colorado. Executive Director Jenny Hill expressed surprise at the funding cut, especially after legal actions had previously safeguarded these funds. “This one was completely out of the blue,” she stated, emphasizing the unexpected nature of the cuts.
The organization, which aimed to aid communities where a significant portion lives below the poverty line, lost $531,240. This loss resulted in job cuts and a reduction in services, including Hill herself reducing her work hours significantly.
Kids from the Ute Mountain Ute Tribe ride their new bikes during the Four Corners Office for Resource Efficiency’s Spoketober event meant to teach them how to ride bikes. The event is an example of 4CORE’s outreach meant to help rural and underserved communities. (Courtesy of Jenny Hill)
4CORE has been actively involved in solar installation projects, e-bike lending programs, and promoting economic resilience through sustainable practices. In Towaoc, for example, Hill was helping local children from the Ute Mountain Ute Tribe with e-bikes to meet their transportation needs.
The funding cut has disrupted ongoing work in multiple communities, including projects in Pagosa Springs and Saguache, which were progressing well before the halt. Surveys have shown positive responses to 4CORE’s efforts, indicating broad support for their initiatives.
“The loss of this funding will immediately curtail 4CORE’s planned programs for mobility planning in four communities, and commercial and residential energy efficiency outreach,” stated the organization. With government support now withdrawn, 4CORE faces significant challenges in continuing its mission to enhance energy efficiency and sustainability in its service areas.
Hill reflected on the situation, noting, “It feels strictly political,” as she discussed the funding’s impact on 4CORE’s ability to operate effectively. The organization remains committed to serving its communities despite the setbacks.
sedmondson@durangoherald.com
Original Story at www.durangoherald.com