The Pagosa Springs Area Chamber of Commerce is issuing a final reminder: nominations for the 2025 Community Leader Awards and voting for the 2026 Board of Directors both close on Monday, Jan. 12.
This is the last chance for community members and businesses to recognize outstanding neighbors, nonprofits and small businesses at the Chamber’s annual gala and awards ceremony, set for Feb. 6 at the Pagosa Lake Property Owners Association Clubhouse.
Nominations for Community Awards
The Chamber is seeking nominations in four categories for its annual Community Awards:
• Citizen of the Year: A resident who has made a lasting impact in economic, cultural, philanthropic or lifestyle areas, with at least three years in the community.
• Volunteer of the Year: An individual or couple who has given time, money or both to community events and nonprofits, with measurable results and a spirit of humility.
• Non-Profit of the Year: A 501(c)(3) organization serving Pagosa Springs or Archuleta County for at least three years, providing a necessary service and maintaining a positive community image.
• Small Business of the Year: A business with 20 or fewer full-time employees that has operated locally for at least three years, known for good service, community support and growth; Chamber membership is required.
Nomination forms are available on the Chamber’s website (pagosachamber.com)and can also be submitted by paper with the nominee’s name, contact info and a description of their contributions. All nominations must be returned to the Chamber by 4 p.m. on Monday, Jan. 12.
Last chance to vote for 2026 board
Chamber member businesses also have until Monday, Jan.12, to cast their vote for the 2026 board of directors. This year, six candidates are running for three open three-year seats on the board.
The candidates are Joe Ford, Christina Gonzales, Darren Gantt, Matt Kossler, Kelly Maestes and Loretta Paniagua.
Each Chamber member business is allowed one ballot and may vote for up to three candidates; ballots with more than three selections will be nullified.
Voting is done online through the Chamber’s website, and members are encouraged to vote before the deadline to help shape the Chamber’s leadership for the coming year.
How to participate
To submit a nomination or to vote, visit the Chamber’s website at pagosachamber.com or contact the Chamber office at (970) 264-2360. Nominations and ballots must be completed by close of business on Monday, Jan. 12.
The winners of the Community Awards will be announced at the annual gala on Feb. 6, where the new 2026 board members will also be recognized.
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