GILPIN COUNTY – The year 2024 brought a steady stream of developments and decisions that shaped Gilpin County and its communities. 

Starting in January, the Board of County Commissioners (BoCC) began addressing pressing infrastructure needs, including updates to the South Beaver Creek Road Improvement Project, with discussions about public outreach sessions scheduled for later in the year. 

Early on, staffing concerns also emerged, as the BoCC examined hiring and retention strategies to address vacancies in critical roles.

In February, efforts to enhance public safety and community preparedness took center stage. The Sheriff’s Office collaborated with local agencies to implement a co-responder program aimed at improving mental health crisis response. Discussions also began around funding opportunities for fire mitigation projects and other critical community needs.

March saw the county grappling with the aftermath of severe winter storms that impacted roads and services. Public Works teams worked tirelessly to address snow-related challenges, while emergency declarations enabled the county to seek additional resources. 

The BoCC also approved a resolution allowing for mutual aid agreements in the event of public health emergencies crossing county boundaries.

In April, attention turned to community engagement and land use planning. Public hearings were held to discuss rezoning efforts, including a proposal to convert the Coyote Motel West into affordable housing. 

The commissioners also approved resolutions to support local organizations through grant funding, such as a $15,000 agreement with the Colorado Natural Heritage Program to assist with conservation planning.

May brought focus to wildfire mitigation and regional collaboration. The BoCC approved a joint effort with neighboring counties to secure grant funding for forest restoration and wildfire risk reduction. 

Additionally, Gilpin County continued its participation in the Mountain Rail Coalition, a multi-county effort to explore passenger rail opportunities, though debates over representation emerged during meetings.

June was marked by progress in community development and emergency preparedness. 

The commissioners discussed grant applications for infrastructure improvements in Rollinsville, including water and sewer systems, as well as the potential for a passenger rail station. 

A resolution extending the temporary stay on processing 1041 permit applications was also approved to allow more time for regulation updates.

In July, the BoCC focused on digital accessibility compliance, solid waste management, and wildfire risk mitigation. 

Plans for updates to the county’s website were introduced to meet new federal standards for accessibility. 

Wildfire mitigation efforts continued with roadside chipping events and grant-supported projects targeting high-risk areas.

August saw further advancements in addressing community needs. The commissioners approved participation in the state’s opioid settlement, allocating funds to support local public health initiatives. Discussions also included legislative efforts to address septic system replacement costs, highlighting the financial burden faced by homeowners with aging systems.

September brought a look ahead to 2025, with the early presentation of the proposed budget. The BoCC discussed infrastructure investment, including road projects and senior program support, while maintaining a strong fund balance. 

The board also began revising the noxious weed management plan and exploring term limits for county commissions to improve public engagement.

October focused on balancing growth and environmental preservation. Public hearings addressed building envelope amendments and zoning updates to protect wildlife habitats. 

The commissioners also approved a lease agreement with the Gilpin Ambulance Authority and allocated funding for wildfire mitigation staff positions. 

Preparations for the November general election were finalized with polling locations designated across the county.

In November, the much-anticipated Sexually Oriented Business Impact Study was presented, offering insights into zoning regulations and potential impacts on public safety. 

The BoCC approved funding for the Gilpin Mountain Kids Early Learning Center to address childcare needs and adopted a comprehensive fee schedule for county services in the upcoming year.

December concluded with the adoption of the 2025 budget, which balanced significant infrastructure investments with long-term fiscal planning. 

The commissioners also discussed staffing updates, wage adjustments, and the reallocation of unused federal funds. 

The year ended with recognition for outgoing Commissioner Marie Mornis, honoring her contributions to the county during her tenure.

Throughout 2024, Gilpin County demonstrated a commitment to community priorities, from infrastructure improvements to wildfire mitigation and public health initiatives. 

In 2024, Gilpin County carried out several overdue capital improvements, including facility repairs at the Gilpin County Community Center and the Gilpin County Jail.

Plans for the Community Center Annex, which will also house the Food Pantry, are moving forward and are part of the 2025 budget. The annex is designed to help ensure local food access and provide more resources for the community. 

The county also purchased part of Rudolph Ranch to secure essential water rights, supporting future development and infrastructure needs.