by Larry Patrick
WALSENBURG- Attorneys for the Huerfano County Commissioners and Presco apparently did not get together to talk in the past two weeks about language that is holding up a decision by the county. Richard Ellis of Presco said his company couldn’t make an investment based on some of the “draconian language” included in the agreement that both sides haven’t worked out. Ellis says, “The language in this form is just not acceptable.” The two sides are trying to work out an acceptable position to keep from having the COGCC step in without any input from the county. Ellis said the language in the agreement from attorney, Jeff Robbins, representing Huerfano County had a “fatally chilling effect.” The two sides are still hung up on semantics of the word “operation.” The commissioners instructed County administrator, John Galusha to get with Robbins and make sure he gets with the Presco attorney on the wording so the issue can be brought back next Wednesday for consideration.
The commissioners will consider drafting a resolution to do away with term limits for the County Sheriff’s position. Jolene Nation made the request for term limits on the sheriff’s position to be lifted. The matter would be taken up on the general election ballot in November. Commissioner Scott King, said he is against term limits on a very important position. Commissioner, Roger Cain praised the work of current sheriff, Bruce Newman, in saying he would be in support of drafting a referendum to set aside term limits if approved by the voters. The commissioners will consider a resolution in an upcoming meeting on the topic.
The commissioners agreed to work on getting a license from the Health Department for operation of the kitchen at the Community Center. The Health Department has decided that the small kitchen needs to be licensed since more and more food is being served for profit there. The Commissioners would then require a fee to be paid by users of the kitchen once the licensing goes through.
The Huerfano Winds, under the direction of Suellen Levy, will hold a concert on the courthouse portico on Friday, June 27th for an hour beginning at 4:30. Levy said she and her group are trying to revive summer band concerts for the enjoyment of the public and listeners. The County commissioners gave their approval for use of the front porch of the courthouse.
Commissioner, Roger Cain, asked to have the three fire chiefs in the county contacted to see if raising the fire danger level is necessary because of the extremely dry conditions of late. Some surrounding counties have raised the alert level.
