Letter to the residents of Gilpin County,

I am of the opinion the residents of Gilpin County deserve an explanation of my withdrawal from the BOCC election for District One. I feel embarrassed and sorrowful for the heart breaking events that led to this decision. On September 15 of last year, my partner and husband of 28 years, Ron Engels, made a choice to divorce me, the house we have worked on since 2001 and essentially Gilpin County.

With this emotional upheaval, I found my ability to cope with this was impaired and distracting. I therefore chose not to continue with my endeavor in seeking election onto the BOCC of Gilpin County. I sincerely apologize for not holding onto the commitment I made back in May of 2023. I needed to ensure my commitment to being a caring, compassionate and diligent medical-legal death investigator as the Coroner of Gilpin County. I will always strive to do my best for the Gilpin County community. I am blessed with the friends here, many of whom are like family to me and all dear to my heart.

Peace, good will and joy be to you all.

Zane Laubhan

Central City