CENTRAL CITY - The Gilpin County Commissioners focused heavily on finances during their September 23 meeting, where County Manager Ray Rears and finance staff presented the proposed draft budget for 2026. 

The plan projects $34.4 million in revenue against $39.3 million in expenditures, with gaming remaining the county’s largest source of funding.

Highlights include $3 million in capital projects for next year, such as completing the new annex, plumbing and pool improvements at the community center and justice center, and upgrades at the Rudolph Ranch property.

The budget also accounts for potential new lodging tax revenue if voters approve an increase from two to six percent this November. Final adoption is scheduled for December 15.

The draft shows expenditures outpacing revenues by nearly $5 million, resulting in a projected deficit that will affect County reserves.

Gilpin County’s reserves are expected to total about $28.3 million at the end of this year, with the balance projected to drop to $23.4 million in 2026 as the County covers the shortfall.

Designated reserves include $4 million for emergencies, $2 million for water rights, and an additional cushion equal to three months of operating costs.

Fire restrictions lifted

Commissioners approved Resolution 25-112, repealing the Stage 1 fire restrictions implemented in August. Undersheriff Greg Demo stated that regional fire partners agreed the conditions no longer warranted restrictions. The repeal officially took effect at midnight on September 18.

Other resolutions

• Resolution 25-106 approved the Chapter 11 plan related to Purdue Pharma L.P. and allowed execution of the subdivision participation and release form.

• Resolution 25-113 approved secondary manufacturers' settlements and execution of the combined participation and release form.

• Resolution 25-107 approved the designation of two arbitrators for property valuation appeals. Each arbitrator was assigned one case, for $150 per case, with the vote passing unanimously.

• Resolution 24-109 transitioned long-term care insurance from a County-paid benefit to an optional employee-paid benefit beginning January 1, 2026.

• Resolution 25-114 suspended the Hiring and Retention Incentive Program for 2026 due to budget constraints. The program had provided bonuses for hard-to-fill positions, costing an estimated $596,000. Existing commitments will be honored. The measure passed 2–1, with Commissioner Sandy Hollingsworth opposed.

Board of Adjustment hearing continued

A variance request for 940 Missouri Flats Road was postponed after Community Development Director Jamie Boyle requested more time for public notice. The Board of Adjustment continued the hearing to October 28 at 9:30 a.m.

Proclamation issued

Commissioners adopted a proclamation declaring September 15 through October 15 as Hispanic Heritage Month in Gilpin County.

New hires introduced

Undersheriff Demo introduced Detentions Deputy Jordan Hengfus, and HR Director Chanda Johnson introduced Jack Zeman as the new county planner.

Reports and updates

County Attorney Todd Messenger provided a brief update on legal work related to road designations, wastewater agreements, and litigation matters.

County Manager Ray Rears outlined the progress of annex construction, staffing updates, and preparations for the October budget work sessions.

Commissioners discussed regional early childhood contracts, mental health service reductions, and a recent tour of Axton Ranch by Denver Mountain Parks staff.

CCI legislative voter chosen

Commissioner Susan Berumen was selected as Gilpin County’s voting delegate for the Colorado Counties Inc. legislative committee meeting on October 3.

The meeting adjourned at 10:40 a.m. into executive session for legal advice and negotiations.

The next regular Gilpin County Board of County Commissioners meeting is scheduled for October 14, 2025. The public may attend in person at the Historic Courthouse or join virtually at tinyurl.com/GilpinCommissioners.