Michelle Baier

The Board of Adjustment convened for a special meeting to consider variances for the LN25-046 BMS application concerning the Burns plat. The primary discussion involved reducing the required minimum lot size from 35 acres in the A35 zoning district for a proposed three-lot subdivision, resulting in lots of approximately 9.98, 2, and 2 acres, respectively. Key points of discussion included the existing lot already not meeting the minimum size, the proposed configuration involving a flag lot for access, the status of the existing residence on Lot One (which had burned down), proposed domestic water source (Valley View Spring Pipeline), and the apparent existing smaller lot sizes in the surrounding area, including those in the A20 zone. Staff recommended the Board consider the required variance findings and provide direction. The board also discussed irrigation water rights and the prior use of the land for alfalfa cultivation.

The meeting included constituent time where a resident spoke regarding a draft resolution to prohibit the installation of graywater treatment works and the use of all gray water within unincorporated Delta County, citing concerns about water variability and the need for recycling, while also noting the resolution maintains the status quo since 2013. The commissioners approved the agenda, which included proceeding to executive session. The finance report covered the adoption and appropriation of the 2026 Delta County budget, which detailed total projected expenses, a decrease compared to the 2025 adopted budget primarily due to the completion of major construction projects like the jail remodel. The budget discussion included details on road maintenance funding, Secure Rural School dollar distribution, employee cost of living adjustments, insurance cost increases, and the addition of one FTE for GIS and EN911 departments. The discussion also noted a decrease in projected sales tax and highway user tax fund revenue. The commission subsequently adopted resolutions for the 2026 budget adoption, fund appropriations, and the levying of property taxes for the 2025 fiscal year (for 2026 operations). Following this, a resolution prohibiting the installation of graywater treatment works was introduced, with concerns raised regarding public health and safety risks such as pathogen transmission, source contamination (especially from kitchen water), and groundwater contamination due to reliance on shallow domestic wells.

The meeting commenced with the Pledge of Allegiance and approval of agenda additions. A significant discussion centered on adding an update from the Bureau of Land Management (BLM) concerning the Ankapadre office, which was scheduled before the Greywater agenda item. Constituents voiced strong concerns regarding a proposal to ban graywater use, citing ongoing drought conditions and the importance of water conservation measures. The County Clerk reported on the approval of minutes from a previous meeting and recommended the renewal of liquor licenses for Gunnison River Pleasure Park and Desperado Incorporated. Representatives from the BLM provided updates on recreational activities, specifically regarding the Jumbo Mountain trail system, including the successful implementation of seasonal closure gates to protect wildlife habitat, despite issues with vandalism, such as glue being placed in locks. They also discussed the status of the Smith Mountain Trails project, which involves collaborating with mountain biking groups and seeking grant funding for development. Finally, updates were given on efforts to improve the North Delta off-highway vehicle (OHV) area, including trash abatement and plans for developing improved staging areas and dedicated facilities like a kids' pump track.

The Delta County Board of County Commissioners held a regular meeting that included discussions on several key items. The board approved the club license renewal for American Legion post number 97. The annual report for county held leans was presented, highlighting the number of leans held, their categories (mineral rights, manufactured homes, and real property), and a focus on cleaning up older leans. A resolution was considered to increase the Delta County E911 monthly search charge, with a decision to raise it to the threshold of $2.17 effective February 1st, 2026, to fund dispatcher salaries, equipment, and capital upgrades. The meeting also addressed the oversight of pre-trial services, aiming to ensure the program's viability and cost-effectiveness by moving its oversight in-house and forming a new advisory board.

The meeting addressed several topics, including constituent concerns about battery storage farms and the integrity of the county's election process. The commissioners discussed and clarified their positions regarding election security and support for the election staff. They also reviewed the progress of a small modular reactor project and discussed hydrogen fuel cell technology as an alternative to battery storage. Additionally, appointments were made to the Community Services and Block Grant Advisory Board and the Board of Health. The commissioners reviewed the schedule and jail report. An executive session was held to discuss resolution 2009R004 and the disposal of county-owned real property.