CENTRAL CITY — The Gilpin County Board of County Commissioners met Tuesday, April 28, 2026, for a shorter-than-usual meeting at the Historic Courthouse. They discussed transit funding, a mental health proclamation, and the county flag contest.

Public comment

A serious concern was brought by Chantelle Shoaee, a land and business owner along the Columbine and Pisgah corridor, between Central and Idaho Springs. She said she was assaulted by an intoxicated off-road user and asked to be included in future meetings involving corridor management.

Shoaee, founder of Camp Always Choose Adventures, said nighttime traffic continues despite long-standing closure signage. She called for coordination between Gilpin and Clear Creek Counties and stronger safety measures moving forward.

Transit funding moves forward

The board approved Resolution 26-042, allocating $14,000 to restore a third day of Mountain Rides transit service between Gilpin and Boulder counties. The Monday/Wednesday/Thursday service will run from June through December 2026. 

The transit line picks up in Rollinsville and the Gilpin County Community Center. No reservations, passes, or fees are required. More information can be found at viacolorado.org/2026/02/new-service-launched-in-gilpin-county/. 

A second resolution commits a $20,000 match for a 2027 grant application. If awarded, service would expand to include the Gilpin County Community Center and Library.

Both measures passed 3-0.

Mental health month proclamation 

Commissioners declared May 2026 as Mental Health Month. Tasha Holtzman of the Jefferson Center for Mental Health said one in four people experience a mental health condition each year and stressed the importance of access to care and reducing stigma.

The proclamation passed unanimously. Commissioners noted expanded services in local schools and the importance of continued community support.

Consent Agenda

The board approved the consent agenda unanimously. Items included resolutions related to abandoned property, a satellite communications grant application, and the approval of recent minutes.

Staffing and county updates

County Manager Ray Rears said the slash site will likely see an additional full-time employee as a result of increased demand. He also reported progress on a Rollinsville cistern project for improving fire protection this year.

A new clerk to the board will begin on May 11. Commissioners thanked Melanie Bleyler for filling in during the transition.

Legal updates included ongoing work on short-term rental amendments, land use code revisions, and code enforcement processes. Commissioners acknowledged the frustrations with enforcement timelines and said improvements are in progress.

Flag contest underway

Commissioners reminded residents that a county flag design contest is open. Submissions are due May 3, with finalists to be displayed and voted on during the May 9 Health Fair.

The selected design is expected to be unveiled at the Gilpin County Fair this summer. Details on how to enter the contest can be found at gilpincounty.colorado.gov/flag-contest. 

Commissioners recessed midday for their annual statutory jail tour, during which they also viewed recent capital improvements.

The next County Commissioners meeting is scheduled for May 12, 2026, at 9 a.m. at the Historic Courthouse, 203 Eureka Street, in Central City, and it will be the only meeting held in May.