CENTRAL CITY — Changes to septic rules, workforce services, and County staffing took center stage Tuesday at the meeting of the Gilpin County Board of County Commissioners on January 27, 2026.

The meeting included the adoption of new, stricter onsite wastewater treatment regulations, approval of a new Human Services leadership position, and a detailed presentation on workforce programs that return millions of dollars to the local economy.

Chair Susan Berumen opened the meeting by noting that it was National Holocaust Remembrance Day. She also expressed condolences for Alex Pretti’s family and friends and wished peace for the Twin Cities in Minnesota.

The board approved the consent agenda 3-0, including a CDOT rail grant support letter, the Clerk and Recorder’s December 2025 financial report, and minutes from the January 13 meeting.

Septic regulations updated

One of the most impactful actions of the morning came during the Board of Health portion of the meeting, when commissioners adopted updated onsite wastewater treatment system regulations.

Public Health Director Alisa Witt said the changes were required under updated state Regulation 43 and are intended to improve inspections, technology standards, and long-term system performance.

“The main changes were those that were adopted by the state, and they're all based on updated technology, issues that have been discussed over the years to strengthen the regulations, to make failures less likely, to make inspections more relevant and more thorough,” Witt said.

She explained that the changes reflect updated treatment technology, stronger inspection requirements, and clearer procedures for system replacements and property transfers. The new rules take effect on March 13, 2026.

What it means 

For existing homeowners, inspections will be more thorough and standardized. Older systems, many of which are 20 to 30 years old, are more likely to require higher-level treatment when they are replaced. While this can increase upfront costs, County officials said the goal is to reduce failures and improve long-term performance.

Home sales may also be affected. Transfer-of-title inspections will follow clearer procedures, which could mean more consistent expectations for buyers and sellers. Older or non-compliant systems may need upgrades as part of a sale or shortly after purchase.

For new construction and prospective buyers, many properties will require advanced treatment systems due to Gilpin County’s rocky terrain and setback requirements. New and replacement systems must be designed by licensed professional engineers. The County said the updates are intended to protect groundwater, improve reliability, and reduce costly septic failures over time.

Workforce Colorado 

Commissioners also heard from Michelle Foley of Workforce Colorado, who outlined services available in Gilpin, Clear Creek, and Jefferson counties.

She told the board that workforce programs provide a strong return on investment.

“For every federal dollar that is invested into Jefferson, Clear Creek, and Gilpin counties, $5.32 is returned back into our local economy,” Foley said.

She said services are available not only to unemployed residents, but also to people who are underemployed or looking to change careers. She also discussed partnerships to help connect residents to training, GED resources, and job placement.

Following the presentation, the board approved Resolution 26-008, authorizing the chair to sign a tri-county workforce memorandum of understanding.

Human Services leadership change

The board approved Resolution 26-011 to create a new Deputy Director and Community Benefits Manager position within the Human Services Department.

Human Services Director Janey Barker said the change will improve leadership coverage and clarify decision-making when the director is out of the office.

The new position replaces the existing Community Benefits Program Manager role and is reclassified at a higher pay range. Most of the cost is reimbursed by the state.

Black History Month proclamation

The board also adopted a proclamation recognizing February as Black History Month.

Community Engagement Officer Melanie Bleyler presented the proclamation, which recognized the role of African American residents in the history of Central City, Lincoln Hills, and Gilpin County. The proclamation encouraged schools, businesses, and organizations to recognize and teach African American history.

Planning Commission appointments

Commissioners approved Resolution 26-009, appointing four members to the Gilpin County Planning Commission:

1. Bob Haxel, reappointment, term through December 31, 2028

2. Aden Hock, reappointment, term through December 31, 2028

3. Erica Scobee, new appointment, term through December 31, 2028

4. Eric Douglas, new appointment, term through December 31, 2026

Commercial appraisal payment

The board approved Resolution 26-010, authorizing payment of $18,038.40 to R. Jortberg Associates, LLC for commercial appraisal services related to late-2025 Board of Assessment Appeals cases.

Assessor April Nielsen said the work was needed to support defensible casino property valuations and was not anticipated in the 2025 budget.

Boundary line adjustment approved

Commissioners approved Boundary Line Adjustment BLA 25-5 involving mining claim parcels known as the Tom Martin Lode, Irene Lode, and portions of the Cliff Extension, Doc Beers, and Lulu Bowen lodes.

The adjustment transfers approximately one acre and consolidates parcels. Staff recommended approval based on zoning standards.

Regional public health clarification

The board adopted Resolution 26-012 to clarify earlier action selecting Jefferson County Public Health as the region’s convening entity for early childhood coordination. The update aligns Gilpin County’s intent with partner counties and state requirements.

Manager and attorney reports

County Manager Ray Rears updated the board on grant activity, upcoming meetings, and changes to the free trash token program. He said reducing free disposal from five to two cubic yards is expected to improve long-term sustainability while keeping the program in place for residents.

County Attorney Todd Messenger reported on work related to road agreements, building codes, and other legal matters.

The next regular meeting of the Gilpin County Board of County Commissioners is scheduled for February 10, 2026.