Dear Gilpin County Voters, 

Writing in support of Commissioner Susan Berumen is a part of my role that I enjoy. Over the past several years she has grown from being a colleague, candidate, elected official to becoming a friend.

From Susan, I have learned of the endless hours that come with serving the county in ways the public often overlooks. Some of these include regular and frequent commuting to neighboring counties to implement shared policies and to Denver for meetings with state legislators. It is a difficult job and I admire her steadfast resolve when faced with criticism that comes with making tough decisions.

Susan has been a consistent advocate for childcare, local business and representative of the community at large regardless of modern-day partisanship. Her advocacy for local business where infrastructure exists in mid-county and north-county has been consistent since she decided to run for office four years ago.

Addressing the needs of families, in the form of childcare, has been another cornerstone of her time in office. The Community Center Annex is another example of steadfast support for the general population. Commonly referred to as the “food pantry” the building provides food for the people who have fallen on hard times, or are temporarily home-bound for reasons beyond their control. In addition, it houses the office for Senior Services, is a resource in the event of an emergency or natural disaster, and it is a commercial kitchen available for rent to local businesses.

Part of being a commissioner includes making funds available to non-profit organizations that serve the community in important and compassionate ways.

Financial oversight of these funds is a part of the role because constituents want to know that the county is spending funds responsibly. Many members of the community are intolerant of spending unless it is a cause specific to their particular interest. Susan is there to help ensure that these agencies make their financials available for review, follow guidelines consistent with their peers and that financial support is not an open-ended commitment.

Phil Gibbs

Chair, Gilpin County Democratic Party