Rio Grande County commissioners voted unanimously Tuesday to terminate a 20-year building inspection partnership with Monte Vista after development demands overwhelmed county capacity. The board extended the county’s renewable energy moratorium through June 2025 to complete comprehensive land use codes, with County Attorney Nancy Lake acknowledging the county was “remiss” in letting the original October 2024 expiration lapse. Commissioners approved $144,700 in federal health grants for modernized scheduling systems and family programs during the January 14 meeting. The board also heard public criticism of high taxes affecting seniors and economic growth, reports on Del Norte Airport generating $50,000 profit, and updates on ongoing land use enforcement activities including court-ordered cleanups.
Building Inspection Partnership Terminated
The county ended its 2005 intergovernmental agreement with Monte Vista after development demands overwhelmed county building department capacity. Building Department head Randy Kern had served as the city’s inspector, handling all permits and inspections since 2005.
Staff capacity became critical when part-time inspector Ken Van Iwarden resigned after nine years, citing age concerns and regulation changes. Van Iwarden provided backup coverage with no regular schedule, functioning as a “spare tire” when needed.
Kern reported 52 new dwelling units constructed in 2025, including 30 single-family homes, four duplexes providing eight units, one four-unit townhome, and 10 manufactured homes. Despite fewer total permits than previous years, projects carried higher valuations and increased complexity.
County officials emphasized county priorities must come first during the year-long transition. Monte Vista now has its own capability, with the county completing existing permitted projects but issuing no new city permits. Several older permits require completion due to extensions or long delays.
Current projects include a four-unit townhome in River Bend development and Dollar General building plans for Del Norte’s east side.
Energy Moratorium Extended
County Attorney Nancy Lake acknowledged the county was “remiss” in letting the original renewable energy moratorium expire in October 2024. The extension through June 2025 allows completion of comprehensive land use codes for all renewable energy sources.
Lake said the planning commission is “very close to completion” with new codes, expecting this will be the final extension needed. Commissioners praised the planning commission’s hard work.
Land Use Director Dixie Diltz and the planning commission actively developed the code since the June 2024 moratorium placement. The commission is also preparing surety bonds presentation for reclamation of renewable energy sites.
Federal Health Grants Approved
Dr. Bankole secured two federal grants totaling $144,700 running through June 2026. Federal shutdowns delayed both agreements.
The $131,083 E-Health Innovation Grant will replace manual patient scheduling with 24/7 availability and automated reminders via text and email. Currently all scheduling requires staff phone calls using fragmented manual processes.
The $13,617 combined contract includes child fatality review coordination for the six-county San Luis Valley region and maternal child health programs providing diapers, car seats, and vaccinations.
Public Comment: Tax Concerns
Marshall protested high taxes affecting seniors and poverty-level residents, calling building permit costs barriers to economic growth. He described challenges from COVID shutdowns, construction delays, and downtown Del Norte construction limiting seasonal businesses to 8-10 months operation, creating a “triple whammy” combined with high taxes.
Marshall mentioned residents needing bank loans for tax payments and called for reduced government burden. Another speaker supported taxation concerns while advocating improved voting processes.
Kathy Elliforth introduced herself as District 2 commissioner candidate, citing family history predating county formation and previous City Council service. She expressed excitement about entering the race and feels duty and calling to serve with a clear schedule to devote to the position.
Airport Generates $50,000 Profit
Commissioner Deacon reported Del Norte Airport generated $50,000 profit on fuel sales, selling 15,118 gallons aviation fuel and nearly 14,000 gallons jet fuel. The airport maintains the area’s cheapest prices with no landing fees, contrasting Alamosa’s $15 fee.
Road and Bridge completed airport carport installation for equipment protection. Deacon expressed appreciation for the assistance.
Land Use Enforcement Activities
Land Use Director Dixie Diltz reported ongoing enforcement including court-ordered cleanup with administrative warrant. The Sherman Avenue cleanup addressed constituent complaints, though the previous occupant relocated to Monte Vista creating new issues.
County Attorney Nancy Lake noted five cleanup cases planned for 2026 proactive enforcement. She emphasized the county will proceed once court orders are obtained despite general reluctance to interfere with private property rights. Two other properties are under development for enforcement orders.
Road and Bridge Operations
Road and Bridge Manager Patrick Sullivan reported completing several brush clearing projects through 2025 and continuing while rental equipment remains available. Two new trucks are expected for delivery in Pueblo this week for pickup next week.
Engineering work started on a 1.2-mile Lariat Road section, though right-of-way easement issues and limited space create delays.
Graders remain busy with minimal frost allowing continued maintenance, while year-end inventory was completed and submitted. The HUTF report is due January 29.
Road and Bridge cleaned the right-of-way behind the motorcycle shop on Highway 35, removing willows, trash, and debris. The crew hired one new person, bringing total staff to 15.
Commissioner Updates
Commissioner Ratzlaff assumed significant South Central Colorado Seniors workload after Thursday’s director termination, focusing on meals program continuity while reviewing 700 pages of policies.
Commissioner Glover attended weed district meetings seeking a new manager to replace Armando, who relocated to Oklahoma. He also reported on opioid settlement oversight meetings.
The administrator reported elevator mechanical room heat problems affecting electronic controls. Required fire-rated door installation will worsen heat retention, with temperature issues appearing to cause recent elevator malfunctions. The county is gathering air conditioning quotes for resolution.
The Tourism Board rejected a high-priced educational series proposal about Rio Grande County, identifying less expensive marketing alternatives.
Commissioners approved the consent agenda with CHP designation addition and heard reports on floodplain development requiring elevation certificates, with Rio Grande County a participating jurisdiction since 1986-87. Kern reported 42 OWTS permits issued in 2025.
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