NEDERLAND - The Nederland Downtown Development Authority (NDDA) met on Wednesday, June 11, 2025, to finalize an update of their bylaws. They also addressed a Memorandum of Understanding with the Town of Nederland intended to ensure a unified vision in strategic planning.

Childcare

The NDDA first heard an update from Stephen LeFaiver, TEENS, Inc. Executive Director, about the upcoming New Explorers childcare center planned for construction at 750 West 5th Street.

In February, the Nederland Board of Trustees (BOT) approved TEENS, Inc.’s leasing the town-owned parcel for 99 years at the cost of $1 a year. 

LeFaiver showed data on Nederland’s need for childcare, which highlighted that over 70 families in the area are currently on the waitlist. LeFaiver stated that the new center, despite being planned as a 9,700-square foot, two-story building—much larger than the current New Explorers location—will still not provide all of the childcare coverage that the Town needs. 

It was estimated that the new center will provide care for up to 65 children and will employ a staff of 14 people or more. 

The presentation also provided context to the existence of the new center, indicating that it will help stimulate the economy by supplying more jobs in the community, as well as increasing employee productivity by offering dependable childcare for working parents. 

Though the planned New Explorers childcare center is not located within the boundaries of the NDDA, and does not contribute to the Tax Increment Financing that funds the organization, LeFaiver asked for the Authority’s support in reaching their $7 million goal, and offered the possibility of priority enrollment for employees working in the NDDA’s boundaries as an incentive.  

“There’s not enough public funding, not enough grant funding to do it without the support of the local community,” LeFaiver said. “Fortunately we’ve been successful at raising funds to get us to this point, but as operations ramp up and we keep going we’re going to need donations and grants.”  

Town Manager Jonathan Cain offered some criteria for Board members to consider regarding LeFaiver’s proposal, stating that the NDDA has “limited scope” on the childcare project due to its location.

The Authority can determine if the project directly impacts its district, if it is explicitly included in their Plan of Development, whether it supports capital development, and whether the project’s purpose aligns with the NDDA’s purview.    

The NDDA thanked LeFaiver for his presentation and heard public comment, but no action was made in terms of the Authority financially supporting the TEENS, Inc. childcare project. 

Bylaw and MOU update

Board members were tasked with voting on the final draft of the Authority’s updated bylaws, and on a final draft of a Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) with the Town of Nederland. 

The NDDA and BOT have reviewed and revised the bylaws many times, implementing language on conflicts of interest, the Secretary’s role, committee responsibilities, appointing new members, and the competitive bidding process. 

The bylaws also dictate how the Authority is to adhere to the collaborative processes set by the Town and the BOT in regards to the NDDA’s audit process, budgetary process, project planning process, and final approval of the Plan of Development.

The intention of the MOU is to address specific matters not covered by the bylaws, including clarification of the Town’s role in the financial management of the Authority, in administrative and project oversight, on the process for BOT approvals of NDDA matters, and on the best practices for collaboration between the two entities.

NDDA Executive Director Kate Masingale went through each separate edit made since the last reviewed draft of the bylaws. Masingale stated that the majority of the edits were minor language adjustments recommended by the Authority and the BOT during previous meetings and assessed by the attorney for each entity. 

After another round of review, during which Board members offered more edits to refine the language, it was requested that a “clean draft” of both the official NDDA bylaws and the MOU with The Town of Nederland be brought back to the Authority for a final vote.

Executive Director job description

Board members also continued their discussion and review of a revised job description for the NDDA Executive Director, which details the key responsibilities, qualifications, and key performance indicators for the role.

The “position overview” states that the Executive Director is “responsible for the strategic execution, implementation, coordination, and documentation of all NDDA activities within the Town of Nederland, Colorado,” and “serves as a central liaison among the NDDA Board, Town staff, and the public, ensuring that all projects and duties align with NDDA’s mission to enhance the economic vitality and infrastructure of Nederland’s downtown.”

Key responsibilities include administrative oversight, financial management, project management, grant writing, fundraising, and community engagement. 

Three years experience in “urban planning, public administration, economic development, or a related field” is required for the full-time position, in addition to proficiency in financial and project management, understanding of Tax Increment Financing, reliable internet access, and a valid driver’s license. 

NDDA Chair Andrew Dewart stated that, as research is being conducted to complete the section in the job description regarding a benefits package, a special meeting or work session should be scheduled so the board can finalize the details. 

The Nederland Downtown Development Authority meets the second Wednesday of every month. Their next meeting is scheduled for Wednesday, July 9, 2025, at 6 p.m. and will be held online as well as in person at the Nederland Community Center. 

For more information go to: https://townofnederland.colorado.gov/downtown-development-authority.