Moffat Economic Development Authority
This is not a short-term grant program. It’s a strategy to invest carefully, build capacity, and support the next chapter of Moffat County’s economy.
Through a multi-party settlement involving Tri-State Generation and Transmission, the City of Craig and Moffat County secured funding to help offset the economic impact of the coal transition. MEDA was formed to steward this resource locally, with clear goals and accountable decision-making.
Where the money is
MEDA follows a long-term approach. The board aims to preserve the fund’s principal and spend primarily from the interest it earns. Use of the principal requires super-majority approval from both the City and County.
- Settlement funds are deposited in the Permanent Account and held there as principal. Agreement §5.1(a)
- Each month the Permanent Account's earnings move to the Funding Account, which pays MEDA's costs and funds its incentives. Agreement §5.1(b)
- The fund is invested with a goal of no net loss in principal. Agreement §5.2
Why the Board was formed
The closure of Craig Station brought real challenges to the region: job loss, reduced tax revenues, and uncertainty about what comes next. In response, local leaders formed MEDA to ensure that recovery efforts are guided by the people who know the community best.
MEDA's overall objective is to encourage businesses to create primary jobs and significant property tax base in Moffat County and employ, to the extent practical, Moffat County residents. Every decision is made with community benefit, and future impact in mind.
Our goals
MEDA’s mission is guided by clear priorities that reflect the long-term needs of Craig and Moffat County. These goals were chosen to address the most pressing impacts of the region’s energy transition—loss of primary jobs, declining capital investment, and reduced property tax revenue. By focusing on outcomes that bring lasting value, MEDA helps ensure that public funds are used where they matter most.
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Job creation
The board supports projects that lead to the creation or retention of high-quality jobs that bring new dollars into the region by serving customers beyond the local market. These are the types of jobs that sustain families, reduce out-migration, and provide long-term career opportunities for local residents. By prioritizing job creation, MEDA strengthens the foundation of the regional workforce.
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Capital investment
Attracting new investment in land, buildings, infrastructure, and equipment helps drive growth across multiple sectors. MEDA targets projects that build capacity, enhance local assets, and make Moffat County more competitive for future development. These investments support both immediate construction activity and long-term economic performance.
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Tax base stability
Replacing lost property tax revenue is essential to preserving the services and institutions the community depends on such as schools, public safety, infrastructure, and more. MEDA invests in projects that contribute to long-term taxable value, helping local governments maintain essential services without placing additional burden on residents. A stable tax base is key to building a resilient and self-sustaining local economy.
The Board
MEDA is governed by a five-member board appointed by the City of Craig, Moffat County, and the Moffat County School District. Board members serve staggered three-year terms and bring experience in government, finance, education, and community development.
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Tony Bohrer
President
Moffat County seat
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Jnl Linsacum
Secretary-Treasurer
School District seat
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Derek Duran
City Representative
City of Craig seat
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Dave Fleming
County Representative
Moffat County seat