High Country Advocate Staff
The Custer County Board of County Commissioners (BOCC) met on Wednesday, November 26, 2025, at 9:00 AM in Westcliffe, CO.
The Board adopted a new resolution implementing a county-wide hiring freeze to maintain fiscal control and approved a budget amendment to fund a critical evacuation study. They also authorized a cease and desist order for violations of state law that pose a public health and fire risk.
🚨 Major Policy Actions and Budget Approvals
The Commissioners approved three significant actions impacting county policy and finances. The Board unanimously adopted Resolution #25-49, implementing a county-wide hiring freeze on all new employees for Custer County Government. This major new policy is intended to get a handle on staffing growth that has been “contrary to budgeted plans” and keep local taxes low. The resolution encourages departments to submit staffing plans to the BOCC for potential exclusion from the freeze. Separately, the Board adopted Budget Resolution #25-48, transferring $48,000 from the general fund into the emergency services fund. This money, sourced from Title III PILT funds, is specifically designated to pay for the CWPP Evacuation Study.
The Commissioners also authorized the issuance of a cease and desist order for a property violating state tire disposal regulations. This action was deemed necessary because the property is known for having a massive number of illegally stored tires, creating both a health risk and a fire risk. The County initiated the order because the property owner lacks the necessary license and facilities to operate a tire disposal business, clearly violating state law. The matter was brought before the Board after they received “not one but multiple complaints from multiple different citizens” regarding the violation, noting that the property’s condition violates the standard of not affecting the health and safety of adjoining neighbors.
💸 Financial and Staff Reports
The total Accounts Payable for the month came to $364,484.93. Noteworthy invoices included $84,000 for the 2024 audit split among county departments, $32,737 for the Assessor’s yearly software contract, and $26,235 for road material. In reports, Commissioner Candid noted that county liability numbers are up 23% over last year, with 38% of that increase coming from an increased number of vehicles. The County also announced it is seeking an opiate grant for up to $750,000 to consolidate social services into one building. Additionally, the Board approved a motion to pay all employees (excluding elected officials) a $100 dedicated service award to be paid after taxes.
⚙️ Administrative and Technology Updates
Staff reported that a cyberattack, similar to one in Highlands Ranch, had occurred on the Everbridge emergency system, but security was immediately upgraded with dual factors. Commissioner Candid further announced a plan to implement technology that can block all pornography on county devices, including computers and cell phones, for about $1 per device. Regarding infrastructure, Commissioners addressed public complaints about roads, stating that grading prioritizes emergency access and volume, and urged drivers to slow down to prevent speed-related washboarding of the roads. Finally, the Board authorized the issuance of an RFP for a Custer County Child Care and Early Childhood Needs Assessment and approved the return of the Arlie Riggs Bighorn Sheep Painting to the Riggs family.
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