Local Activities
On July 28, Trustees, staff and planners of the Town of Saguache, the County, non-profits and interested citizens met to explore possibilities for revitalization projects for the County seat. This effort is gathering enthusiasm and gaining momentum. For more information, contact ScSEED by eMail: info@scseed.org or Voicemail: 719 655-2775
Commissioner Spearman is participating in the formation of a La Garita Fire District.
The 2008 Saguache County Guide hit the stands last month. Pick up your copy in many local venues around the County!
Posted: July 18, 2008, 05:58:50 PM
Regional Activities
The BoCC continues it’s work with the Valley Commissioners for a regional Transit Authority and Power Authority in the Valley.
Commissioner Joseph is working with County Depts. and SLV RETAC (Regional Emergency and Trauma Advisory Council) toward offering a Valley wide workshop on safety issues and injury prevention in Meth Labs.
Posted: July 18, 2008, 05:58:34 PM
Oil & Gas (O&G)
In July, the BoCC adopted Oil & Gas (O&G) regulations to the Land Development Code and associated permitting fees. The regulations include a section on Surface Owners Rights. This would help inform them of the areas that might be negotiable with oil and gas companies seeking to drill under their property.
Commissioners Sam Pace and Linda Joseph testified before the CO O&G Conservation Commission (COGCC) on the State’s draft new rules for O&G development. Pace spoke to issues for rural counties stemming from COGCC procedures, such as notification methods and timeframes. Most importantly, he emphasized the need for clarity of jurisdictional authority and “Pre-emption” in State and County regulation of oil and gas development. Commissioner Joseph highlighted safety issues, the need for emergency response and preparedness planning, and coordination with local government and emergency personnel for O&G activities. This is a good example of an area where counties must not be pre-empted by the more cursory State rules, and must have autonomy to regulate in a locally appropriate manner, with regional emergency services input.
Posted: July 18, 2008, 05:58:11 PM
Renewables
The County Commissioners (BoCC) sent a comment letter for the BLM scoping process on solar energy generation. This is a promising industry for the Valley, and brings many questions and potential impacts to consider. The County is following up to work with the local BLM, as a Cooperating Agency, toward a renewables strategic plan for Public Lands in Saguache County and the Valley. BLM is currently addressing Solar, Wind, and Geothermal resources. The County is looking into what these industries mean to our area, which is rich in all three.
Posted: July 18, 2008, 05:57:41 PM
