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By Baker Geist, Communications Specialist |
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“The state of Weld County is strong.” That was the statement reflected in the State of the County speech earlier this year, and something further reflected in the impactful services Weld County Government proudly provides every day. Before we welcome 2025, let's take a look back at just a few of many achievements in 2024, and for even more, be sure to read the news releases in the newsroom.
First-ever State of the County a success
Weld County leaders and citizens alike filled the Welcome Center at Aims Community College on Tuesday, Oct. 22, for the first-ever State of the County event. The event exemplified Weld County’s commitment and connection to the future by highlighting achievements and projects related to growth, transportation and quality of life. Commissioner Chair Kevin Ross delivered the remarks on behalf of the entire Weld County Board of Commissioners.
“The state of our county is strong,” Ross said. “The board of commissioners is committed to ensuring it remains strong for generations to come.”
Speaking of several projects and accomplishments solidified a key takeaway of Ross’ speech: “Service to the people is at the heart of what we do in county government. ... We are motivated by compassion and a deep sense of responsibility to the people who call Weld County home.”
New air quality website launched
For the past several years, Weld County Government has invested time, resources and money into proactively gathering, analyzing and sharing air quality data. In June, the county launched another informative outlet: a new website, air.weld.gov.
The new, user-friendly site is designed to provide residents with information, presented in plain language, on the factors that influence air quality. Information featured on the site also details how decisions concerning air quality are made, including the regulatory frameworks and guidelines that govern air quality standards and how the public can participate in community meetings, provide feedback on air quality plans and engage in local environmental programs.
Grant to assist with segment of High Plains Boulevard
Plans to design and construct one mile of High Plains Boulevard, an arterial road running east of Interstate 25, moved forward this year. In March, the Weld County Board of Commissioners accepted a $1 million grant from the Colorado Department of Local Affairs, which will help fund the design and construction of the one-mile segment.
The road will extend Weld County Road (WCR) 9.5 from WCR 32 to WCR 34 east of Mead. It will feature two 12-foot lanes (one north and one south), shoulders, and a sidewalk on one side. Both intersections will also feature roundabouts for safety. The project is anticipated to begin in the spring of 2025.
New public health clinic opens in Fort Lupton
In August, county officials, along with several dignitaries, opened a new public health clinic, located at 2690 9th St. in Fort Lupton. The new facility further expands the reach of the Weld County Department of Public Health and Environment (WCDPHE) as well as the availability of services in the southeastern part of the county.
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“The demand for public health services is growing, and we are excited to be here and put our resources where they are needed,” said Jason Chessher, WCDPHE Director. “Vaccinations, preventative care and cancer screenings are some of the services we will provide in this facility, and we will ensure the staffing to meet the demand.”
To make an appointment or for more information, call (970) 400-6420 or visit www.weldhealth.org and click “Clinic Locations.”
Human Services honored by state
For its high proficiency in meeting the needs of families and individuals in Weld County, the Weld County Department of Human Services (DHS) received the state’s 2023 C-Stat Distinguished Performance Award in June. Out of 25 counties that met their C-Stat goals in 2023, Weld County was the only “large” county — defined as having a population over 100,000 — to receive this recognition.
C-Stat award recipients typically meet 75% of C-Stat goals for their individual agency. This is the second time Weld County has been recognized, with the first occurring in 2020.
“On behalf of my fellow commissioners, we are so pleased to stand behind the amazing work you do,” Weld County Commissioner Scott James told members of DHS at the presentation.
Minna Castillo, Executive Deputy Director of Community Partnerships at the Colorado Department of Human Services, also expressed gratitude for and pride in Weld County staff, saying the award represents resilience, passion, talent and energy in assisting others.
“You all went above and beyond,” Castillo said. “This is a testament to the work you do every day to make sure you’re focused on the needs of your community.”
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A big thank you!
County Roots has eclipsed the 6,000-subscriber mark and in 2025 will celebrate its 150th issue. Thank you for your support, and we look forward to continuing to tell the interesting stories of Weld County Government!
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The first-ever State of the County was one of many important events for Weld County. |
The new health clinic opened this year, and it was only one of many improvements planned for the near future. |
A big stride was made in communication this year with the debut of a website devoted to air quality information. |
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miscellany: a group of or collection of different items.
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Employment Services of Weld County offers in-person and virtual workshops to help job seekers in every step of their job search. From how to write an effective resume, navigating online job searches and tips for standing out in an interview. Check out all upcoming Employment Services workshops.
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As we head into a new year, the Weld County Board of Commissioners would like to honor our residents who are turning 100 years old or older. If you or someone you love has achieved this impressive milestone, fill out this brief questionnaire to be recognized at an upcoming board meeting.
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Weld County Government is always looking for people who want to volunteer to make county services even better. View current openings and apply by visiting www.weld.gov/go/boardopenings.
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The board of commissioners will have two new members in 2025. Jason Maxey will serve as commissioner of District 1 and Lynette Peppler will become commissioner of District 3. Learn more about each and what they're most looking forward to in the next edition of County Roots.
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Welcome to County Roots, the official newsletter of Weld County Government. For those of us who work in county government, we think what we do is pretty interesting. So the goal of this newsletter is to highlight some of the partnerships, technology and efficiencies we are using to make government stronger and more effective for its residents.
Our goal is to establish regular communication with residents, spur interest in county projects, highlight county accomplishments and provide meaningful information to the public. In fact, our goal is to live up to the name “County Roots.” Want to know more about the meaning behind the name? Please visit our webpage, where you can also find previous editions of this newsletter.
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