2011 Citizens` Guide to El Paso County Government

2011 Citizens’ Guide to
El Paso County Government
Citizens’ Guide Overview
The Citizens’ Guide is annually
compiled and published by the Budget
Administration Department. It is designed
both as an educational and resource tool for
Budget Officer Nicola Sapp
readers wanting to learn more about
NicolaSapp@elpasoco.com
El Paso County. This booklet provides
the citizens of El Paso County with a comprehensive but basic
view of County Government — including its structure,
relationship to other government bodies, statutory functions,
fiscal management, community collaborations and key
demographic comparisons with Colorado’s other large counties.
If you have additional questions or interests in El Paso County
Government, please contact us at the address or phone number
below. Other County contacts are provided throughout this
publication for your convenience.
Budget Administration
County Office Building
27 E. Vermijo, 5th Floor
Colorado Springs, CO 80903
Phone: 719-520-7755
Fax: 719-520-6486
Website: www.elpasoco.com
For information visit
www.elpasoco.com
or phone
520
520--MEDS (6337).
1
Table of Contents
County Commissioner Chair Introduction
3-4
2009 County Highlights
5-12
History of El Paso County
13-14
Geography, Climate and Attractions
15-16
El Paso and Other County Governments
17-20
Citizen Involvement in County Government
21
County Commissioners
22-26
Non-Elected Officials
27
El Paso County Structure
28
County Population and Related Taxes
29-35
County Revenue Sources and Expenditures
36-37
County Population vs. County Staff
38
Pikes Peak Rural Transportation Authority
39
Capital Projects
40
Elected and Appointed Offices
41-47
Public Services Department
48-49
Community Services Department
50-52
Development Services Department
53
Budget and Economic Development Department
54
Department of Human Services
55
Affiliated County Agencies
56-57
2
From the Desk of
Dear Citizens of El Paso County:
You may have noticed a different look to our County logo on the
cover of this 2011 Citizens’ Guide. This isn’t a graphics glitch but
rather a tangible reminder of the County’s 150-year heritage
(termed ―Sesquicentennial‖ by resident historians), which we will
commemorate and celebrate throughout the 2011 year.
Since its formation dating back to1861, when Colorado was still
considered a territory rather than a state, the structure and scope
of El Paso County’s government has unquestionably changed;
however, the duties and functions of our elected offices and
officials remain focused on serving the citizens of this historic
and illustrious County.
And speaking of the County’s ―historic and illustrious‖ attributes,
I recently came across an interesting page on our Sheriff’s Office
website containing a timeline of various County sheriffs over the
years and some of their most noted accomplishments in fulfilling
the duties of that office. One such figure was El Paso County’s first
sheriff, Rankin Scott Kelly … the name alone conjures up images
of a Clint Eastwood-style sheriff — sauntering down the dusty
streets (obviously, prior to our County’s Transportation upgrades)
with boot spurs clattering, packing a six-shooter on his side holster
and keeping the peace in a storied era once termed the ―Wild West.‖
Sheriff Kelly quickly earned a reputation as a highly-respected lawman through his vigilance in tracking down notorious criminals on
the run, including a sinister character named ―Big Tooth Jim.‖
Jim had been credited with killing at least 35 people and
relentlessly terrorizing and robbing local ranchers, for which he
earned the more sinister title, ―The Terror of the Rockies.‖
3
the Commission Chair
Sheriff Kelly and his deputy of the time eventually gave chase to
Jim and his gang of outlaws as they were attempting to flee the
territory into Mexico, and took them down in an epic battle rivaling
the infamous shootout at the O.K. Corral. The sheriff and deputy
subsequently discovered some $2,000 that Jim and his rabble
rousers had taken from local ranchers and dutifully returned
their money.
Yes, our County has come a long way since the days of Sheriff
Kelly and the notorious ―Big Tooth Jim.‖ But the governing
principles, dedication to public service and array of inviting
accommodations that first attracted citizens to our region remain.
I encourage you to read more historical accounts of County offices
and operations by visiting our website (www.elpasoco.com) and
entering the search word ―History.‖ You can also find more
information regarding El Paso County’s colorful past in the pages
to follow.
As we take time during this year to reflect on a century-and-a-half
of service to our citizens, your elected officials also want to express
our gratitude to all of our citizens for making this County the
wonderfully picturesque, diverse and opportunity-filled region that
it is, and we look forward to creating more memories and
celebrating many more milestones in the years ahead.
HAPPY 150TH ANNIVERSARY EL PASO COUNTY!
With Appreciation and Celebration,
Amy Lathen
El Paso County Commission Chair
4
2010 El Paso County Highlights
Transportation Projects …
Utilizing Pikes Peak Rural Transportation Authority (PPRTA)
funding via a one-percent sales tax approved by voters in 2004
to address critical road, bridge and transportation needs, El Paso
County’s Engineering division literally has been pounding the
pavement to upgrade major roadways identified by PPRTA to
accommodate increased and expanded vehicle traffic.
Major road projects completed or near completion to date include:
Baptist Road, Baptist-Hodgen connection, Akers Drive, Struthers
Road and South Academy. Finalized in November 2010, the final
phase of the multi-phased South Academy project completed
improvements to increase traffic capacity and improve operation
of a major east-west corridor — representing a true collaborative
effort by the Colorado Department of Transportation; Fort Carson;
Pikes Peak Community College; Union Pacific, Burlington
Northern and Santa Fe railroads; South Academy Station
Development Group; and citizens of El Paso County.
PPRTA projects currently under construction include Hodgen
Road, Marksheffel Road, Meridian (north) and Stapleton (west).
Future PPRTA project in El Paso County include County Line
Road, Meridian Road (south) and Baptist Road (west).
The County’s annual PPRTA project
budget is approximately $10-$15
million, depending on individual
project start and completion
schedules. El Paso County has more
than 2,000 miles of paved and
unpaved roadways requiring routine
maintenance and/or upgrades.
5
2010 El Paso County Highlights (Continued)
Public Services Department …
The Public Services Department coordinated the purchase of the
298,000 square-foot Corporate Ridge facility — now known as
the Citizens’ Service Center. The $25 million purchase price
includes an office building, parking structure (1,060 spaces) and a
25,000 square-foot support building. The Department of Human
Services relocated to the Center in spring of 2011 and the facility
ultimately will house the Clerk and Recorder, Assessor,
Treasurer, Public Health Department and Pikes Peak Work Force
Center — providing expanded and integrated services in a more
modern and efficient building.
The Public Services Department completed approximately $5.2
million of road rehabilitation and maintenance projects funded by
the PPRTA Maintenance Program. Improvements included:
Thirty-nine miles of paving overlays, such as segments of Calhan
Highway South and Peyton Highway (contract labor); 34 miles
of chip seal; and 24 miles of re-graveling (completed by
County staff).
Public Services also concluded the first year of a Facility
Maintenance Agreement with the City of Colorado Springs,
which resulted in substantial savings to City taxpayers and more
efficient use of specialized staff and equipment. Under this
agreement, the Facilities section used 14 city-funded technicians
to provide a full range of operations and maintenance services for
132 city buildings. This agreement has been extended and
expanded for 2011.
Public Services was reorganized to ensure a more sustainable
operational model by consolidating the Transportation, Fleet
Services, Facilities Management, Security and Parking Services,
and Contracts and Procurement sections. This restructuring
resulted in significant efficiencies and cost savings by
consolidating and integrating professional, administrative and
technical positions — culminating in a 12% increase in
completed transportation projects.
6
2010 El Paso County Highlights (Continued)
Budget Administration Department …
During 2010, Budget Administration worked closely with the
executive team to advance the County’s Strategic Moves Project
and assisted with the identification of a facility to purchase and
the re-purposing of several other County facilities. The Budget
group helped navigate the complexities of the various funding
mechanisms available to El Paso County to ensure the most cost
effective solution to funding the Strategic Moves Project.
Through this effort, the County is addressing $189 million of the
$385 million in existing critical capital needs at a cost of
approximately $50 million.
The Budget Division presented a five-year financial forecast,
including a detailed analysis of current revenue streams and
anticipated impacts of changes in Sales and Use Tax and
Property Tax collections. This analysis provided the County
Commissioners and the citizens they represent with a better
understanding of the County’s current and projected
financial position.
In 2010, the Economic Development
Division received $1,046,824 in
Community Development Block
Grant funds and $1,421,551 in
Neighborhood Stabilization Program
Funds. Six contracts were awarded
for infrastructure projects (e.g., five street/sidewalk improvement
projects and one water/sewer project) and three public facilities
projects (e.g., veteran facility, youth center and senior center).
The Public Information Division launched a County website
hosted on YouTube, which includes dozens of timely,
informational videos highlighting County programs, services
and initiatives — including DHS programs, the County Fair,
Snowplow and Road Maintenance, Sustainable Facilities and
Strategic Moves Initiatives, H1N1 County Outreach/Response,
Emergency Services Planning and Response, Fire Mitigation and
Hazardous Materials Disposal.
7
2010 El Paso County Highlights (Continued)
Support Services Department …
In 2010, the Benefits Division conducted and
completed a comprehensive ―Request for Proposal‖
process and subsequent selection of several
specialized vendors to provide medical plan
administration, claims processing and excess-claims
coverage — resulting in a $811,000 annual reduction
in medical plan costs for both the County and
its employees.
The Community Corrections Division initiated an
electronic file distribution system to reduce staff time,
postage expenses and other operational costs associated
with the previous hard-copy filing processes. The
Division also hosted the Colorado Association of
Community Corrections quarterly board meeting in
November 2010.
Information Technologies (IT) provided ongoing
support to County departments and divisions to better
utilize and integrate data and other electronicallyexchanged information in order to increase and enhance
public awareness of County services on the Internet.
Working with County Offices, Departments and
Divisions, IT implemented an ambitious upgrade
to the County’s presence on the Web — including
updated content and additional online services
benefitting the public.
The Information Technology Division also completed
a wide range of technology upgrade tasks, including:
PC, Software and Printer Replacements; Electronic
Records and Imaging; Incorporation of Wireless Access
in County Facilities; and over 16,000 Customer Service
Requests and Support Projects.
8
2010 El Paso County Highlights (Continued)
Development Services Department …
The Development Services Department (DSD) established
detailed regulations pertaining to
electronic billboards, which
included extensive public and stakeholder review and input processes.
Development Services created and
implemented revised zoning
regulations regarding medical
marijuana facilities in response
to identified legislative changes —
utilizing already established
permitting processes, with
additional rules specific to
operations in incorporated
El Paso County.
The Department made substantial
upgrades to and restructured its
website — allowing members of
the public, developers and
consultants easier access to
information and forms.
DSD developed and implemented
a subdivision phasing process
approved by the Board of County
Commissioners to protect the rights
of land owners within previously approved but unrecorded
subdivision parcels.
The Development Services Department also updated its Cost
of Service study to coincide with implemented processes and
revised the application fee schedule accordingly.
9
2010 El Paso County Highlights (Continued)
Community Services Department …
The 2010 El Paso County Fair set an attendance record and
continued to operate without the use of taxpayer dollars.
This was the 105th installment of the County Fair — a grand
tradition providing residents and visitors of all ages the
opportunity to celebrate our County’s diverse culture and
rich heritage.
El Paso County received ownership of 1,067 acres of open
space from the Sanctuary in the Pines Development
dedicated for a regional park under an amended Park Lands
Agreement. A Master Plan Committee was appointed by
the County Park Advisory Board for the purpose of
soliciting citizen and other stakeholder input related to the
future use of this property — culminating in the creation
of the Pineries Open Space Master Plan, which was
completed and approved by the County Commissioners
in December 2010.
El Paso County also secured ownership
of the Rainbow Falls property near
Manitou Springs through a dedication by
the Mansfield Development Company.
A coalition of stakeholders worked
collaboratively on clean-up, restoration
and development of a Master Plan, which
will be completed in 2011. A grant from
Great Outdoors Colorado has been
obtained to fund improvements —
including access, parking and trails,
and park amenities.
The El Paso County Veterans Services
office facilitated nearly 1,900 veterans
benefits claims and conducted outreach presentations for over
3,500 eligible veterans and their families to provide
information about available veterans’ benefits and explain
services provided by the County office.
10
2010 El Paso County Highlights (Continued)
Department of Human Services …
In 2010, the Department of Human Services (DHS)
authorized a monthly average of $8,300,000 in Food
Assistance benefits and authorized over $400 million in
Medicaid services to residents in El Paso County.
Child Welfare Services received over 12,600 child abuse/
neglect referrals in 2010 (3,000 more than Denver).
Assigned caseworkers completed formal assessments on
over half of these reports in 2010.
DHS provided approximately 79,000 service contacts for
El Paso County citizens – including cash assistance, food
assistance, medical benefits and other services
contributing to a safe and secure community.
Using Temporary Assistance For Needy Families (TANF)
funding, DHS partnered with the El Paso County Public
Health Department to bolster their ―Strong and Healthy
Families‖ program, which provides services to new and
expecting mothers that enhance their parenting skills,
improve the health of their children and allow mothers to
gain job skills that will assist them in securing employment.
DHS collaborated with Goodwill Industries and the Center
on Fathering to develop the ―Fathers as Providers
Employment Program,‖ which provides father-focused,
classroom-based job search and readiness classes; on-site
work experience; and guided job search activities that enable
them to secure gainful employment and eliminate the need
for public assistance. Additionally, the Department of
Human Services partnered with the Pikes Peak Workforce
Center and Young Williams to encourage the payment of
child support, which provides children with life’s essentials –
including healthy life styles.
11
2010 El Paso County Highlights (Continued)
Honors and Awards …
El Paso County Administration
was honored with seven
achievement awards at the
2010 National Association
of Counties (NACo) Conference.
The awards included: Training and Employment
Connection for County Residents (Information
Technologies Division); Child Welfare Military Project
(Department of Human Services); County Fair
Sustainability (Recreation and Cultural Services
Division); “Operation Medicine Round-up”: Household
Medication Disposal Program (Environmental Services
Division); Prescription Discount Card Program
(El Paso County Administration); Proactive
Maintenance Program (Fleet Management Division);
and Teen Self-Sufficiency Program (Department of
Human Services).
The County received a Starburst Award from the Colorado
Lottery for the development of the Stratmoor Valley
Community Park – an honor bestowed on organizations and
agencies that demonstrate outstanding use of dollars reserved
for parks and open space development.
The County’s Comprehensive Annual Financial Report
received a clean audit opinion and was awarded the
Certificate of Achievement for Excellence in Financial
Reporting from the Government Finance Officers
Association. The County received this award from 1990-1999,
and from 2005 to present.
Public Information Officer Dave Rose received special
recognition for Leadership in the Public Sector from the
Chamber of Commerce – presented to Mr. Rose for his active
role in promoting community partnerships and building
public trust.
12
History of El Paso County
El Paso County was founded in 1861
as one of the original Colorado
counties formed by the
territorial legislature. The County lies
in the eastern central part of the State
and is, as its name implies, a kind of
open door or "pass" between the great
plains regions of eastern Colorado and
the picturesque, gold-bearing
mountain region beyond.
Zebulon M. Pike was the first
explorer to spread the word about the
country just east of the Rockies. Inhabitants of this land in
Pike's time included both mountain Indians (Ute) and plains
Indians (Cheyenne, Arapahoe and Kiowa).
Initially, the County’s
economy relied on
tourism, railroads,
ranching and farming.
But the economy of
El Paso County
changed forever in
1890 when large
quantities of gold
were discovered in Cripple Creek, Colorado. Tourism and
ranching then gave way to mining, which led the local economy
through the 1890s.
13
County History (Continued)
Forty years later, in the midst of war, the Army designated a site
south of Colorado Springs as Camp Carson, named in honor of
legendary army scout Kit Carson. Today, Fort Carson is a 137,391acre reservation adjacent to the southern boundary of the City of
Colorado Springs. Fort Carson presently is Colorado’s second
largest employer.
In 1948, the Air Force selected El Paso County as the location for a
flying facility that eventually became the Peterson Air Force Base
Complex. The Peterson complex includes Peterson Air Force Base
(the oldest and home of the Northern Command), Schriever Air
Force Base, Northern Command, Cheyenne Mountain Air Station
and Air Force Space Command. In 1954, El Paso County was chosen
as the site for the United States Air Force Academy.
Collectively, these five military installations represent the top
employers in the County with a combined military force of more than
43,000 and nearly 80,000 military retirees and veterans who currently
reside in this community.
14
County Geography, Climate and Attractions
El Paso County encompasses more than 2,158 square miles
(slightly more than twice the size of Rhode Island). The County is
bordered on the north by Douglas and Elbert counties, on the west by
Teller and Fremont counties, on the south by Pueblo County and on
the east by Elbert and Lincoln counties. El Paso County's largest
municipality is the City of Colorado Springs. Other municipalities
within El Paso County include Manitou Springs, Green Mountain
Falls, Fountain, Calhan, Ramah, Monument and Palmer Lake.
The western portion of El Paso County is mountainous, while the
eastern part is prairie land where horses and beef cattle remain
important sources of income. The altitude ranges from about 5,052
feet on the south central border at Chico Creek to 14,115 feet on the
summit of Pikes Peak near the western boundary.
15
Attractions (Continued)
The natural physical beauty of the
County’s landscape, situated at the
base of Pikes Peak, includes an
uninterrupted view of the Front
Range. This magnificent scenery
inspired Katherine Lee Bates to compose "America the Beautiful."
El Paso County’s mild climate average 300 days of sunshine, 16
inches of rain, 41 inches of snow and very low levels of humidity
annually. High temperatures average from 42 degrees in January to
85 degrees in July. Low temperatures average from 16 degrees in
January to 57 degrees in July.
With over 150,000 acres (230 square miles) of open space, El Paso
County is also a year-round sports paradise. Hunting, fishing,
camping, Nordic and Alpine skiing, mountain biking, climbing,
hiking and sailplane soaring
are local favorites.
Additionally, County residents and
visitors enjoy equestrian and rodeo
sports, scenic golf courses, the
United States Olympic Training
Center, the World Arena Ice Hall,
minor league
baseball, NCAA Division I
Hockey, the world-famous Pikes
Peak International Hill Climb
and much more.
16
About County Government
Counties are subdivisions of state government. They are the local
administrators of federal and state programs and are on the ―front
lines‖ when it comes to public safety, justice, elections, motor
vehicle registrations, criminal investigation and prosecution, public
health, human services and transportation issues.
El Paso County includes both urban and rural areas, and all citizens
benefit from the services provided by El Paso County offices
and agencies.
El Paso County is a statutory county, meaning that it is a service arm
of the State. Its elected official structure, powers and responsibilities
come from State laws. The State grants to the County such powers as
are required for the health, welfare and safety of our residents.
Subsequently, the County is required to provide many mandated
services, which are directed by the State and Federal Governments:
Services Provided to ALL Citizens:
Construction, maintenance and operation of the County jail and
County courthouse.
District Attorney — Investigation and prosecution of crimes.
Certification of automobile titles; motor vehicle registrations;
administration of all primary, general and special elections in the
County; records and maintenance of public documents.
Valuation of all real property and taxable business and
residential property in the County.
Certification of all deaths and investigation into the causes of
suspicious deaths that fall under the Coroner's jurisdiction.
Releases of Deeds of Trust and administration of foreclosures.
Design, construction and maintenance of public highway
systems in the County.
Administration of Human Services programs to include Child
Support, Child and Adult Abuse/Neglect Prevention, and Food
and Medical Assistance.
17
El Paso County Government
El Paso County is governed by five County Commissioners representing the
five geographical Commissioner Districts, shown below. El Paso County
Commissioners are elected by citizens within their respective districts and
serve staggered four-year terms. County Commissioners are term-limited,
serving a maximum of three consecutive four-year terms. The Board of
County Commissioners elects officers and assigns community liaison
responsibilities annually. Commissioner District boundaries are revised every
two years to ensure equal citizen representation for all five districts.
The Board of County Commissioners serves as both a policy-making and
administrative body for the County. All powers of the County, as a legal
entity, are exercised by the Board of County Commissioners and not by its
individual members.
*Below is a map of El Paso County noting Commissioners’ geographical
District boundaries and incorporated municipalities.
For general information, please call 719-520-PASO
or visit the County website at www.elpasoco.com
18
El Paso County and Other Governments
Governments are divided into three major branches:
► Federal Government
► State Government
► Local Government
Federal Government
(United States of America)
State Government
(State of Colorado)
Local Government
Counties*
Cities and Towns
School Districts
Special Districts
*El Paso County is considered a branch of local government.
All of the government bodies referenced in the model above
are related in various ways — including funding sources
and services provided. It is critical that all government
entities work in collaboration for the common good of
taxpayers, allowing all levels of government to provide
quality and effective services to citizens.
19
County and Other Governments (Continued)
Example of Inter-Governmental Associations and Impacts:
City of Colorado Springs recruits 200 new police officers and those
new officers patrol the city streets and arrest suspected criminals.
City police officers take suspected criminals to the El Paso County
Jail because jail operations are not a function of municipalities.
The El Paso County Jail by State of Colorado statute has to
house, feed, clothe and provide appropriate medical attention to
suspected criminals.
The El Paso County Jail then transports suspected criminals to
the El Paso County Courthouse, built and operated by El Paso
County to house Court operations, which are a function of the
State of Colorado.
The State of Colorado then holds judicial proceedings with a State
of Colorado judge, an El Paso County district attorney, an El Paso
County sheriff, a City of Colorado Springs police officer and, in
some cases, the El Paso County Coroner in attendance to perform
their respective duties.
The “Domino Effect”
Additional police officers result in additional arrests.
Additional arrests result in additional inmates.
Additional inmates lead to increased jail costs
for operations.
Additional arrests also lead to additional courthouse use.
Additional courthouse use creates the need for additional courtrooms, judges, district attorneys and supporting staff.
20
Citizen Involvement in County Government
Citizen Outreach Group (COG):
The El Paso County Board of County
Commissioners created the El Paso County
Citizen Outreach Group as an advisory
board to reach out to County residents and
encourage open communication between
citizens and their commissioners. This
board consists of 15 citizen
representatives, two from each of the
County’s five Commissioner districts,
and five citizen representatives from the
community at large. District and at-large
members serve for three-year terms and
may not serve more than two consecutive
terms. Citizens are welcome to attend
monthly COG meetings or they can email
questions or concerns to the COG:
citizenoutreach@elpasoco.com
Citizens’ College:
The COG annually conducts a hands-on, classroom-style orientation of
El Paso County titled the "Citizens' College." This course allows citizens
to learn, first-hand, how County government works through insightful,
interactive presentations facilitated by the County’s elected officials and
administrators, in addition to facility tours and Q&A. Learn more at
http://www.elpasoco.com/citizenscollege/
Citizens Budget Oversight Committee:
The Citizens Budget Oversight Committee (CBOC) was created to inform
and engage residents of El Paso County regarding the County’s ongoing
budget challenges, priorities and objectives. Its members are appointed by
the Board of County Commissioners, Countywide Elected Officials and
community leaders. CBOC members serve as advisors to the
Commissioners in identifying strategies and resources to ensure long-term
financial sustainability for the County.
For more information on the COG, Citizens’ College, CBOC and dozens
of other citizen volunteer opportunities with El Paso County visit:
http://bcc.elpasoco.com/Volunteer_Boards
21
County Commissioners
Commissioner, District 2
Amy Lathen, Chair
Phone: 719-520-6412
AmyLathen@elpasoco.com
Born in Denver in 1967, Amy settled in Colorado
Springs with her family in 1984 after living for 14
years in a small farming community in Nebraska. After graduating from
Rampart High School, Amy enrolled in college at UCCS and earned her
BA in Psychology in 1992. Amy and her husband, Bob, have three
children. She and her family enjoy camping, fishing and many other
outdoor activities. Amy also enjoys recreational shooting and hopes to
become an NRA-certified instructor in order to help others become more
comfortable and empowered through responsible firearm use.
In January 2005, Amy went to work for The Elevation Group, a
company serving non-profit organizations across the United States.
Amy was instrumental in working with senior consultants and client
services on everything from marketing to grant writing, and handled
all office administration duties.
In 2000, Amy made her political debut working on George Bush's
campaign. Amy's hard work and dedication paid off when Mr. Bush
was elected President of the United States. In 2001, Amy was elected
as a bonus member to the El Paso County Republican Party Executive
Committee, an office she still holds.
Amy has served her Party and community in many ways over the
years — including co-chairing Governor Bill Owens' re-election
campaign, serving as Regional Director for Bush/Cheney in 2004 and
participating as past Vice-Chair of the Citizen Outreach Group in El
Paso County. In gratitude for her fervent efforts, Amy was cited as
"Republican Volunteer of the Year" in 2003.
Believing in strong public safety, responsible and intelligent growth,
and the importance of respectful public representation, Amy ran for
County Commissioner and was elected in January 2008 to serve the
residents of District 2. Commissioner Lathen was elected Chair for 2011,
and her current term extends through 2012.
22
County Commissioners (Continued)
Commissioner, District 3
Sallie Clark, Vice Chair
Phone: 719-520-6413
SallieClark@elpasoco.com
Sallie Clark was elected to the Board of County Commissioners for
District 3 in November of 2004. She served as Board Chair of the Commission in 2006,
Vice Chair in 2005 and 2009, and was again elected as Vice Chair in 2011. Sallie’s second
term in office extends through 2012. Her district encompasses central and western El Paso
County and includes the town of Green Mountain Falls, City of Manitou Springs and the
City of Colorado Springs, in addition to unincorporated areas within District 3.
Commissioner Clark has owned a small-business and bed & breakfast inn since 1986.
In addition to her past service on the Colorado Springs City Council, she has served various
local and state organizations. These include the Colorado Travel and Tourism Authority,
Organization of Westside Neighbors, School District 11’s Business Sounding Board, the
National Fire Protection Association, Council of Neighbors and Organizations, National
League of Cities Public Safety Committee and the Colorado Restaurant Association’s
Pikes Peak Chapter.
Among her professional achievements, Clark received the ―2002 Woman of Distinction
Award‖ from Soroptimist International, was named one of the Denver Post’s ―People to
Watch‖ in 2001 and has been awarded the ―Best Civic Leader,‖ ―Best Role Model‖ and
―Best County Commissioner‖ from the Colorado Springs Independent newspaper.
She also is a recipient of the Colorado Springs Convention and Visitors Bureau’s ―Tourism
Industry Award,‖ the Colorado Springs Business Journal’s ―Women of Influence,‖
the Southern Colorado Women's Chamber ―Accolades Award,‖ the American Heart
Association’s ―Woman of Distinction Award,‖ the Aspen Pointe/Pikes Peak Behavioral
Health’s ―Heroes of Mental Health Award,‖ the Greater Colorado Springs Chamber of
Commerce ―Elected Official of the Year‖ and, in 2010, received the ―Republican of the
Year Award‖ from the El Paso County Republicans.
Presently, Commissioner Clark serves as liaison to the County Coroner, Sheriff, Treasurer
and Surveyor offices. She also is a member of the National Association of Counties
(NACo) Justice and Public Safety Committee, Chair of the Courts Subcommittee, and
serves on the State of Colorado's Child Welfare Allocations committee. Her additional
liaison duties include the County’s Citizen Outreach Group, Parks Board and Department
of Human Services, among others. Sallie serves on many boards, including the Colorado
Springs Chamber Government Affairs Committee, Convention and Visitor’s Bureau
Advisory Board, El Paso County Emergency Services Agency, El Paso County Public
Health Board, Pikes Peak Rural Transportation Authority and is the current Chair of the
Pikes Peak Area Council of Governments.
23
County Commissioners (Continued)
Commissioner, District 4
Dennis Hisey, Third Commissioner
Phone: 719-520-6414
DennisHisey@elpasoco.com
The Hisey family moved to El Paso County in 1983
and now includes his wife Kathy, five children and 10 grandchildren.
Dennis' great grandfather settled in Mesa County Colorado in the late
1800s; his grandfather and father were both born in Mesa County and
Dennis, returning to his roots, brought his family back to Colorado.
Commissioner Hisey’s background includes over 20 years in the
transportation industry — ranging from driving to general manager to
owner of a moving and storage company. Prior to public service,
Dennis was the owner of a home repair and remodel franchise.
Before the 2004 Election, Dennis was an active volunteer for the
County — graduating from the El Paso County Sheriff's Citizen
Academy in 2000 and serving on the County Planning Commission
for four years. He completed the 2005 FEMA-sponsored Integrated
Emergency Management course at their training center in Maryland.
Taking office in January 2005, Dennis served as Vice Chair in 2006,
Chairman in 2007-08 and 2010. Dennis currently serves as liaison to the
Chamber of Commerce, Military Affairs Council and Pikes Peak Workforce Executive Committee. He is the county representative on the
Fountain Creek Watershed Governing Board and Regional Building
Board, and more than a dozen other boards and committees — including
the Pikes Peak Rural Transportation Authority and Pikes Peak Area
Council of Governments.
Commissioner Hisey was awarded "2005 Freshman Commissioner of the
Year" at the annual Colorado Counties, Inc. (CCI) convention and was
elected to the CCI Board at their 2008 annual meeting. Dennis also serves
on the National Association of Counties’ Energy, Environment and Land
Use Committee.
Dennis’ community accomplishments include expansion of the Fort
Carson Buffer Zone, re-opening Willow Springs Pond, establishment of
a railroad quiet zone, neighborhood clean-ups, wildfire protection plans
and expansion of sidewalk maintenance programs.
24
County Commissioners (Continued)
Commissioner, District 1
Darryl Glenn
Phone: 719-520-6411
DarrylGlenn@elpasoco.com
Darryl Glenn was elected to the Board of County
Commissioners from District 1 in November 2010 and officially took
office on January 11, 2011.
Commissioner Glenn is a graduate of Doherty High School in Colorado
Springs. He holds a Bachelor of Science degree from the United States
Air Force Academy, a Master’s degree in Business Administration from
Western New England College and Juris Doctor degree from New
England School of Law.
Darryl has extensive experience in the government sector having been
appointed to the Colorado Springs City Council representing District 2,
the northeast quadrant of the city, in June 2003. He was then elected to
serve a four-year term in April 2005 and re-elected in April 2009.
Commissioner Glenn is a member of the American, Colorado and El Paso
County Bar Associations. He is also a former vice chairman and current
precinct committee leader of the El Paso County Republican Party. He
has served as president of the Douglass Valley Elementary Parent
Teacher’s Organization and is also a three-time collegiate national
power-lifting champion. Commissioner Glenn retired from the Air Force
as a lieutenant colonel after 21 years of combined active duty and reserve
military service.
Commissioner Glenn has been married to his wife Erin for 22 years and
has two daughters.
25
County Commissioners (Continued)
Commissioner, District 5
Peggy Littleton
Phone: 719-520-6415
PeggyLittleton@elpasoco.com
Peggy Littleton was elected to the Board of County
Commissioners representing the citizens of District 5 in November 2010,
taking office in January of 2011. Peggy has served on the State Board of
Education since February 2004, and her involvement in education spans
many years. She taught for 15 years in a variety of educational settings,
including home-schooling her three children and serving as a faculty
member at Cheyenne Mountain Charter Academy and Colorado Springs
Christian School. Peggy was also appointed as the director for Colorado’s
GEAR UP grant, which was administered by the office of former
Governor Bill Owens.
Using her extensive experience as an educational consultant, Peggy has
conducted professional staff development seminars for teachers
nationwide. Her focus is training teachers to use both data-driven and
differential instruction in the classroom. Peggy’s passion is literacy,
driven by her belief that children must learn to read in grades K-3 in order
to best prepare them for a lifetime of learning. She earned her Bachelor
of Science degree from the Regents University of New York and has
earned numerous graduate hours in literacy and education.
Commissioner Littleton serves on many boards and commissions,
including Read to Achieve, The Dyslexia Center and PACE
(Parental Alliance for Choice in Education). Of the awards she has
received, Peggy feels most honored to have been given the Charter Friend
Award for Policy. Peggy has contributed to many reports published by
NASBE, including ―E Pluribus Unum (ELL),‖ ―Adolescent Literacy‖ and
―From Planning to Practice (ECE).‖
In addition to serving on the state board, Peggy is a commercial real estate
consultant in Colorado Springs. She and her husband, Don, are the proud
parents of three grown children.
26
El Paso County Non-Elected Officials
The County Administrator is the Chief Administrative Officer of the
County and is appointed by the Board of County Commissioners to
provide advisement and recommendations relating to operations and
administrative polices. The County Administrator has the responsibility
of oversight for the operational functions of the County’s Budget and
Economic Development Administration, Community Services,
Development Services, Human Services, Public Services and Support
Services. County administrative services provides a variety of services
and support to the citizens of El Paso County, Board of County
Commissioners, County-wide Elected Officials and associated agencies.
County Administrator
Jeff Greene
JeffGreene@elpasoco.com
The County Attorney is the Chief Legal Officer of the County and is
statutorily appointed by the Board of County Commissioners to provide
legal advisement and support to the County Commissioners, County
Administrator , administrative departments and appointed advisory boards,
committees and commissions regarding civil matters and human services.
Since 1986, the Office of the County Attorney has assumed the
responsibility for representing the County in all public liability and tort
County Attorney
actions as a result of the County being self-insured. Likewise, the
William Louis
County Attorney’s Office represents other elected officials in a variety WilliamLouis@elpasoco.com
of other civil matters.
The Deputy County Administrator coordinates closely with the County
Administrator relating to the administrative operations of the County in
addition to overseeing the daily functions of Support Services, Community
Services and Public Services departments. The Deputy Administrator
oversees operational decisions concerning the County’s infrastructure and
facilities, as well as core administrative functions such as information
technology, employee services, environmental services, parks,
Deputy County Administrator
contracts and procurement. See pgs. 48-49 for more details on Public
Monnie Gore
MonnieGore@elpasoco.com
Services functions under the direction of the Deputy Administrator.
The Director of Human Services reports directly to the County
Administrator and is responsible for the operations of the County’s
social, adult and child protection, and related human services programs,
which are described in greater detail on page 55.
Seven additional citizen-elected officials and one governor-appointed
official provide varied statutory functions and services to County citizens.
Those officials include:
DHS Director
Rick Bengtsson
County Sheriff, County Assessor, County Clerk & Recorder,
RichardBengtsson@elpasoco.com
County Coroner, District Attorney, County Surveyor , County
Treasurer and Public Trustee (governor-appointed). See pages 41-47.
27
El Paso County Organizational Chart
28
El Paso County Population and Taxes
El Paso County does
more with less!
El Paso County is the most
populous county in Colorado,
projected to exceed 630,000
citizens in 2011. The County’s
unincorporated population for
2011 is estimated at nearly
168,000 citizens.
29
County Population and Taxes (Continued)
PLEASE NOTE: On average, 10% of El Paso County property tax
revenues are allocated to the County government. The remaining
revenues are distributed to school districts, cities and towns, and
special taxing districts.
Your property taxes are calculated using a variable called a "mill levy.”
See page 33 for more information on calculating your property taxes.
What is a "mill" or a "mill levy"?
A mill is one-thousandth of a dollar or one-tenth of cent. A mill levy is the
number of mills that local governmental bodies tax based upon the
assessed value of your property.
By Colorado law, the County cannot permanently increase the mill levy
without a vote of the citizens.
El Paso County has the lowest mill levy of the ten largest populated
counties within Colorado. This means El Paso County citizens are
paying substantially less in property taxes compared to other largepopulation Colorado counties.
2010 10-County Mill Levy Rates
26.824
31.037
23.667
19.774
15.672
24.346 22.435
7.531
11.335
16.804
The chart above is based on 2010 approved mill levies.
El Paso County’s mill levy for 2011 is 7.537.
30
County Population and Taxes (Continued)
Combining the amount of County sales/use tax and
property tax paid by El Paso County citizens, we pay
substantially less per person than the other largepopulation counties in Colorado.
The chart above is based on 2010 budgeted tax revenues and 2010 population
estimates (most current data available from the 10-County Survey). El Paso
County’s combined per-person tax revenue for 2011 is estimated at $181.
Retail stores generate a
significant portion of
El Paso County’s annual
sales tax revenues.
31
El Paso County Property Taxes
The El Paso County Treasurer is the collection agent for all property
taxes. Citizens pay the entire property tax bill to El Paso County but
the County only keeps a small portion of that tax revenue. Most of
the tax revenues collected are distributed to the cities, towns, school
districts, library districts, water districts, fire districts and special
improvement districts, which set their own budgets.
El Paso County's mill levy comparison with the other large counties
in Colorado is shown on page 30. El Paso County's low mill levy rate
translates to the lowest property tax revenues per capita compared to
the other Colorado counties.
The chart below is based on 2010 budgeted property taxes and
population estimates for the ten largest counties in Colorado.
For 2011, El Paso County’s per-citizen property tax revenues
are estimated at $75.
El Paso County has the lowest property
tax per-citizen of all 64
Colorado counties.
32
Property Taxes (Continued)
Property Taxes are calculated by multiplying the following items:
Market Value of the home as valued by the El Paso County
Assessor’s Office.
Assessment Ratio as determined by the State of Colorado in
accordance with Colorado Revised Statute 39-1-104.2 C.R.S.
Current Mill Levy rate as calculated using the total assessed value
of property and the Consumer Price Index (CPI) and growth index.
Below is an example of a homeowner who lives in School District 11,
whose home has a market value of $200,000 and a related mill of 66.292
Market Value X Assessment Ratio = Assessment Value X Mill Levy = Property Taxes
$200,000 X
7.96%
El Paso County
$118
Levy = .007387
El Paso County
Road & Bridge
$3
Levy = .000165
Library District
$57
Levy = .003556
Water District
$15
Levy = .000947
=
$15,920
X .066292 = $1,055
School District 11
$676
Levy = .042493
City of Colorado
Springs Road & Bridge
$3
Levy = .000165
City of Colorado Springs
$68
Levy = .004279
General & Special
Improvement Districts
$115
Levy = .007300
Based on the calculation above, this homeowner would pay
$1,055 in total property taxes, of which El Paso County would
only receive $118 or 11% of total property tax collected.
33
History of El Paso County Property Taxes
El Paso County property tax revenues have grown steadily over the
years corresponding with a historic rise in local property values.
From 2005 to 2010, property tax revenues increased by nearly 33
percent, and property tax revenues in 2011 are projected to climb
slightly from the previous year. However, property tax revenues for
2012 and subsequent years are expected to decline by approximately
10% based upon current property valuations.
*Budgeted property tax figure.
The chart below illustrates a notable shift in County sales and
property tax revenue percentages from 2005 to 2011.
Historical Comparisons of Sales vs. Property Taxes
100%
80%
60%
40%
20%
Sales Tax
66%
Sales Tax
58%
Property Tax
34%
Property Tax
42%
0%
2005
2011 Budget
34
History of El Paso County Sales Taxes
In 1987, El Paso County voters approved a one-percent sales tax
applied to any sale of tangible personal property within the County.
While the County’s sales tax revenues have varied over the past
several years, notably impacted by the economic recession,
anticipated sales tax revenues for 2011 are lower than dollars
received back in 2007.
*Budgeted sales tax figure.
The total sales tax distribution for 2011 is 7.4% for purchases made
within the Colorado Springs City limits. Allocations shown below:
35
El Paso County Revenue Sources
Total 2011 Budgeted Revenues by Major Category
*Sales, Use and Property Taxes: Represent nearly 50% of all County
revenue sources, explained in more detail on previous pages.
Other Revenue: Comprised of service fees and charges, sale of fixed
assets, rent collections, parking fees and miscellaneous revenue.
Other Taxes: Includes taxes on motor vehicles, trailers and mobile
homes, and PILT (payment in lieu of taxes).
Elected Office Revenues: Fees, fines and charges to citizens for
services rendered by Elected Offices — including Public Trustee,
Treasurer, Sheriff, Coroner, Assessor and Clerk & Recorder.
Interest on Investments: Received from El Paso County cash balance
and applicable interest rate.
Restricted Revenue: Represents revenue sources with legal
restrictions for use, such as federal or state government grants.
36
El Paso County Expenditures
*
*
*
*Over 60% of the County’s Unrestricted General Fund is dedicated to public safety.
Administrative Support: Includes Budget and Economic Development,
Human Resources, Facilities Management and other administrative functions.
Assessor’s Office: See page 41.
Clerk & Recorder’s Office: See page 42.
Coroner’s Office: See page 43.
District Attorney’s Office: See page 46.
Health Department: See page 56.
Information Technology: All online and electronic information transfer,
storage and processing for County-wide offices and departments — including
telecommunications, website, printing, GIS mapping and A/V functions.
Parks & Recreation: See page 50.
Sheriff’s Office: See page 45.
Treasurer’s Office: See page 44.
37
County Population vs. County Staff
Dividing the number of citizens in El Paso County by the
number of full-time County employees, we serve more citizens
than all other large-population counties in Colorado.
The above chart is based on 2010 budgeted level of full-time employees and 2010
population estimates (most current 10-County Survey data available). For 2011,
El Paso County’s estimated number of citizens served per County employee is 317.
From 2005 to 2011, El Paso County has
reduced its workforce by more than 10 percent,
while the County population has grown by about
11 percent; widening the gap between services
provided to citizens and available resources to
fulfill those services.
38
Pikes Peak Rural Transportation Authority
In 2004, the voters of El Paso County approved
a one-percent sales tax to address the backlog
of road, bridge and transportation needs
Countywide. These revenues help pay for
transportation needs in Colorado Springs,
Manitou Springs, Green Mountain Falls,
Ramah and unincorporated El Paso County.
South Academy Extension
Ribbon Cutting Ceremony
The Pikes Peak Rural Transportation Authority (PPRTA) was formed as a
result of the citizen approved one-percent sales tax. The PPRTA Board is
comprised of three County Commissioners, the Mayor of the City of
Colorado Springs, two City Council Members, the Mayor of Manitou
Springs and the Mayor of Green Mountain Falls. Together they ensure
the one-percent sales tax is being spent in accordance with the approved
ballot language specifications.
The one percent sales tax is allocated as follows:
55% — Capital Road and Bridge Projects (as listed on the ballot)
35% — Maintenance of Roads and Bridges
10% — Transit Services
Thirty-five percent of sales tax received for maintenance is allocated
annually among four government entities, based on population:
75.4 % — City of Colorado Springs
23.4 % — El Paso County
1.0 % — City of Manitou Springs
0.2 % — Town of Green Mountain Falls
Fifty-five percent of sales tax received for capital road projects is
allocated annually based on an approved project list. El Paso County's
2011 Capital Projects list includes the following activities:
Stapleton Road (West)
Berridge Road Bridge Replacement*
Hodgen Road
Major Corridor Transportation Study*
Meridian Road
Falcon Drainage Basin Planning Study*
Marksheffel Road Widening
& Extension
Highway 105 Corridor Study*
*Paid with designated El Paso County funds, developer funds or
federal funds. For more information on the PPRTA, visit:
www.pprta.com
39
2011 El Paso County Capital Projects
El Paso County’s Master Plan Study lists future capital/facility requirements
anticipated over the next 10-20 years. This comprehensive study has identified
nearly $400 million in priority building projects — ranging from new facilities
to building maintenance to equipment upgrades.
Early in 2010, El Paso County Commissioners initiated a Strategic Moves Project
to address the County’s most outdated and operationally inadequate facilities.
Later in the fall, El Paso County took ownership of the former
Intel building off Garden of the Gods Rd., west of I-25,
at a significantly reduced cost. In 2011, this facility will be
occupied by the County Offices and affiliated agencies
listed below. Additionally, several existing facilities will
be updated and will house the County Commissioners,
administration staff and several non-board elected offices.
2011 El Paso County Major Capital Projects
Addressed by Strategic Moves Initiative
Department of Human Services Facility
Health Department Facility
Pikes Peak Workforce Center Relocation
Sheriff’s Law Enforcement Bureau
Coroner’s Facility
Relocation of Treasurer, Assessor and Clerk
& Recorder Offices
County Administration Building Re-purposing
Ongoing Maintenance Needs
Previous Major Capital Projects:
$385,199,706
Major Capital Projects Addressed in 2011 :
$185,799,706 (Actual cost — $50 million)*
Remaining Major Capital Projects:
$199,400,000
*2011 Major Capital Projects will be completed without
additional taxpayer support or County fee increases, and
will address nearly half of all required Capital projects
at a fraction of the cost.
40
Elected Offices
County Assessor
Mark Lowderman
Phone: 719-520-6627
Website: http://asr.elpasoco.com
The County Assessor values real and certain types of
personal property for taxation purposes.
The County Assessor is a constitutional officer elected to a four-year term.
The primary duty of the Assessor is to discover, list and value all real and
taxable personal property located in the County. The Assessor's budget is
supported by the General Fund.
The Assessor’s Office establishes and fosters positive relationships with
taxpayers and other interested parties — providing public access, assessments,
appraisal information and boundary maps. This Office is where taxpayers go to
appeal the assessed value of their property.
The Assessor is located on the 2nd Floor of the County Administration
Building, 27 E. Vermijo.
Total Assessed Value of Taxable Property:
Actual 2007 — $6,489,749,120
Actual 2008 — $6,578,146,500
Actual 2009 — $6,825,492,150
Actual 2010 — $6,830,113,540
Total Revenues Generated by Appraisals:
Actual 2007 — $437,143,925
Actual 2008 — $442,703,809
Actual 2009 — $456,752,789
Actual 2010 — $461,739,106
The County Assessor's Office is staffed by 50 employees.
County Assessor 2011 Budget:
Personnel
Operating
Capital
$3,114,358
$ 200,523
$
0
$3,314,881
41
Elected Offices (Continued)
County Clerk & Recorder
Wayne Williams
Phone: 719-520-6202
Website: http://car.elpasoco.com
Your Clerk and Recorder’s Office is where many of the
transactions between County Government and its citizens occur.
This office is where you go to be issued a marriage license, search for land records and
deeds, title your vehicle and renew your registration, and register to vote. We also are
responsible for conducting elections for the County. Since most citizen-County
interactions involve the Clerk & Recorder, this office notably represents the ―face of
County Government.‖ We strive to provide you with the best possible service. Our
office has four major departments:
Elections: Voter registration, candidacy for elected office, County-based recalls.
Recordings: Marriage licenses, document recordings, public record searches.
Motor Vehicles: Vehicle titles and registration, driver’s license renewals.
Clerk to the Board of County Commissioners: County liquor and medical
marijuana license applications; Commissioners’ meeting agendas, minutes and
audio recordings.
Office Branches and Locations
Union Town Center — 8830 Union Blvd., Albertson’s Shopping Center
Powers Office — Southeast Corner of Powers Blvd. and Airport Rd.
Centennial Hall — 200 S. Cascade Ave., Downtown
Opening in Late 2011: Citizens’ Service Center —
1675 W. Garden of the Gods Rd.
All branches operate Monday thru Friday, from 8 a.m. to 5 p.m.
The Union Town Center office also is open Saturdays, from 8 a.m. to 1 p.m.
The Clerk and Recorder's Office is staffed by 129 employees.
County Clerk & Recorder 2011 Budget:
Personnel
Operating
Capital
$4,847,697
$3,543,362
$
0
$8,391,059
42
Elected Offices (Continued)
County Coroner
Dr. Robert Bux
Phone: 719-390-2450
Website: http://cor.elpasoco.com
The County Coroner is responsible for the
certification of all deaths that fall under the Coroner's jurisdiction.
The Coroner must notify the District Attorney, view the body and
make a determination concerning the cause of death.
The Coroner's Office determines the cause of death under any of the
following circumstances:
Disease that may be hazardous or contagious, or that may constitute
a threat to the health of the general public.
External violence, unexplained cause or suspicious circumstances.
When no physician is in attendance, or the physician in attendance
is unable to certify the cause of death.
Thermal, chemical, radiation injury or criminal abortion.
When death occurs while in the custody of law enforcement officials
or while incarcerated in a public institution.
When death is sudden and occurs from an industrial accident while
person is deemed in good health.
When death occurs in a hospital less than 24 hours after admission.
The Coroner's Office is staffed by 19 employees.
County Coroner 2011 Budget:
Personnel
Operating
Capital
$1,570,480
$ 206,805
$
0
$1,777,285
43
Elected Offices (Continued)
County Treasurer
Robert C. Balink
Phone: 719-520-6666
Website: http://trs.elpasoco.com
The Treasurer is responsible for the receipt, custody and disbursements
of County funds. The Treasurer collects some state taxes and all
property taxes — including those for other divisions of local government.
The Treasurer’s Office sends notices and collects all property taxes for local government
entities, including school districts, and disburses receipts for each charging a statutory-bound
collection fee. The Treasurer also conducts the sale of tax liens due on delinquent taxes and,
on occasion, issues Treasurer’s deeds.
State statutes provide authority for the Treasurer to make investments on behalf of the County.
The primary objective of the County’ Treasurer’s investment program is to safeguard invested
funds to ensure their liquidity for the timely payment of County obligations.
The Treasurer’s Office is staffed by 19 employees.
County Treasurer 2011 Budget:
Personnel
Operating
Capital
$ 963,925
$ 142,666
$
0
$ 1,106,591
County Surveyor
G. Lawrence Burnett
Phone: 719-520-7201
Website: http://sur.elpasoco.com
The County Surveyor represents the County in boundary disputes,
notifies the County Attorney of any unsettled boundary disputes or
boundary discrepancies within the County, and files all surveys, field
notes, calculations, maps and any other records pertaining to work
authorized and funded by the Board of County Commissioners.
County Surveyor 2011 Budget:
Personnel
Operating
Capital
$
$
$
$
5,920
3,001
0
8,921
44
Elected Offices (Continued)
County Sheriff’s Office
Terry Maketa
Phone: 719-520-7204
Website: http://shr.elpasoco.com
Sheriff’s Office Mission:
The mission of the El Paso County Sheriff’s Office is to provide
public safety services to our community by fulfilling the duties and
responsibilities as defined by Colorado law with a determination to
meet the growing expectations of our citizens.
Vision:
Our vision is to ensure the future quality of life for our citizens as our
community grows. We will set the standard in public safety through
innovation, flexibility and commitment while recruiting and retaining
a dynamic work force. Through community support and fiscal
responsibility we will strategically plan and prepare for the necessary
resources to meet future needs in Law Enforcement,
Detentions, Wildland Fire, Search and Rescue, and Civil Process.
The Sheriff’s Office is staffed by 624 employees.
County Sheriff’s Office 2011 Budget:
Personnel
Operating
Capital
$ 35,918,405
$ 12,083,206
$
557,952
$ 48,559,563
45
Elected Offices (Continued)
District Attorney
Dan May
Phone: 719-520-6000
Website: http://dao.elpasoco.com
The District Attorney is the prosecutor for the Fourth
Judicial District of Colorado, which is comprised of El Paso and Teller
Counties. The District Attorney has the duty to appear on behalf of the
State and counties of the district in all pending criminal proceedings.
The Fourth Judicial District has the largest caseload in the state. In
addition to pending cases from prior years, the District Attorney’s Office
represented the People of the State of Colorado on 32,065 new cases
filed in 2010.
The mission of the Fourth Judicial District
Attorney’s Office is to administer justice,
advocate for victims and partner with
law enforcement and the citizens of this
community in the deterrence and
prevention of crime.
The District Attorney’s Office is staffed by 217 employees and 110
active volunteers. The office could not accomplish our mission without
the dedicated staff and the generous support of our volunteers.
District Attorney 2011 Budget:
Personnel
Operating
$
857,125
$
356,860
$ 11,213,985
46
Governor Appointee (State Office)
Public Trustee
Thomas Mowle
Phone: 719-520-6780
Website: http://elpasopublictrustee.com
The Public Trustee is appointed by the Governor of Colorado.
The Public Trustee releases deeds of trust and protects the rights of
borrowers and lenders during foreclosure on properties in El Paso County.
The Public Trustee’s Office is committed to providing service and
education regarding foreclosure proceedings, serving as a liaison between
the lender and the homeowner during foreclosure proceedings, and
ensuring that homeowners are aware of their rights under Colorado Law.
The Public Trustee’s Office compensates El Paso County for facilities
and support provided by the County.
The Public Trustee’s Office is staffed by 9 employees.
Public Trustee 2011 Budget:
Personnel
Operating
Capital
$
$
$
$
716,162
204,892
0
921,054*
*The Public Trustee’s 2011 revenues are expected to
be nearly $1.5 million, generated through statutory
fees for foreclosures and releases of deeds of trust.
All personnel and operating expenses are covered
by fees. Excess funds are transferred to the
El Paso County general fund.
47
Public Services Department
Public Services has five major functions serving
El Paso County citizens: Contracts and Procurement,
Security and Parking, Facilities, Transportation and
Fleet. We have an operations center and
transportation dispatchers on duty 24/7 to take
Monnie Gore, Public Services Director
calls for customer service.
MonnieGore@elpasoco.com
Visit: http://adm.elpasoco.com/PublicServices
Contracts and Procurement Division
Phone: 719-520-6390
Contracts and Procurement administrates over $100 million annually in
construction, services, commodities and equipment at the lowest possible cost
to meet County needs, ensuring that taxpayers receive maximum value and
quality services for their invested dollars. In 2010, the division achieved over
$6 million in savings. More than 65% of annual contract awards go to
local businesses.
To learn how to do business with El Paso County and review information
regarding open and closed solicitations, awards policy, and request for
proposals and bidding processes, visit:
http://adm.elpasoco.com/ProcurementAndContracts
Security and Parking Operations
Phone: 719-520-6507
The section’s mission is to vigorously protect El Paso County assets
(facilities, people, information and physical assets) and provide professional
parking services. They screen over 1 million visitors to the Judicial Complex
annually and provide a security presence at various county facilities to ensure
public safety. This section also manages over 2,000 paid-parking and
no-fee spaces in 4 downtown parking garages and at the new Citizens’
Service Center.
Facilities Maintenance
Phone: 719-520-6556
Facilities operates and maintains over 130 County-owned facilities, including
repairs, services, and compliance inspections to ensure public safety and
building efficiency. They also conduct facility planning to meet the County’s
infrastructure needs of today and into the future. The section manages County
utility use and employs Energy Performance Contracts that will save a
projected $5.6 million over the next 10 years. Facilities also operates and
maintains 134 Colorado Springs-owned facilities under an
48
Intergovernmental Agreement.
Public Services Department (Continued)
Transportation
Phone: 719-520-6460
County transportation infrastructure needs are met through the combined efforts of the
Engineering and Operations Divisions. The two divisions co-manage the County's
transportation network consisting of over 2,000 miles of paved and gravel roads, drainage
systems, 260-plus bridges and related right-of-way assets.
Engineering is responsible for Road & Bridge standards and compliance; capital
investment, maintenance and rehabilitation program planning; funding and construction
execution; coordination in private sector development review processes; and long-range
transportation network planning. The Major Transportation Corridors Plan contains
short- and long-range multi-regional planning for the County’s transportation system.
Engineering also handles all aspects of storm water management to ensure County
compliance with the National Pollution Discharge Elimination System regulations.
The Operations Highway Section handles in-house maintenance and repair of County
roads and bridges, drainage, signs and signals, and various right-of-way work —
including mowing, debris removal and tree trimming. Snow/ice removal is one of their
major responsibilities, and they utilize all 125 members of the Highway Section and all
plows, graders and chemical trucks to keep County roads safe and passable according to
published priorities.
Transportation’s Adopt-a-Road program is a partnership with citizens. Participating
citizens agree to pick up litter from both sides of a two-mile stretch of a County road at
least four times a year. In turn, participants receive recognition in the form of a sign at each
end of the adopted section of roadway, giving credit for citizen/group contribution to
the community.
To report a transportation-related problem, citizens can email dotweb@elpasoco.com,
call 520-6460 or complete an online customer service request at:
http://adm.elpasoco.com/publicservices/customerservice
To view transportation policies, plans, project updates, permit applications, Adopt-a-Road
information or to submit a customer service request, visit:
http://adm.elpasoco.com/publicservices/transportation
Fleet Management
Phone: 719-520-6830
The Fleet section manages, services and repairs El Paso County’s fleet of over 1,100
vehicles, equipment and attachments with a combined replacement value of $28 million.
The average age of fleet vehicles is 12 years. Fleet operates three garages and also utilizes
mobile services to keep vehicles and equipment operational and safe in support
of County departments and elected offices.
49
Community Services Department
Parks Division
Phone: 719-520-6375
Website: http://adm.elpasoco.com/Parks
The Parks Division is responsible for
Tim Wolken, Community Services Director
TimWolken@elpasoco.com
6,600 acres of parks, trails and open space.
Regional parks provide a wide range of amenities such as pavilions, turf
play fields, restrooms, playgrounds and open space. The 100-mile regional
trail system is a multi-purpose, non-motorized, recreational and
transportation system that links regional parks and open space areas
with towns and communities throughout the County.
The Parks Division offers over 1,000 natural and cultural history
programs at the Bear Creek and Fountain Creek Nature Centers and
coordinates concerts, sports and community education events in County
Parks. The Division also manages the El Paso County Fairgrounds, which
hosts the annual Fair and over 200 community and recreation programs
and activities.
The Parks Division also is charged with providing grounds maintenance
for County-owned property — including the Judicial Building, Metro Jail,
Pikes Peak Center, Centennial Hall, County Office Building, County
Professional Building, Criminal Justice Center, Department of Human
Service buildings and the Public Health Department.
The Parks Division is staffed by 31 employees.
Parks Division 2011 Budget:
Personnel
Operating
Capital
$ 781,567
$ 250,522
$
0
$ 1,032,089
50
Community Services Department (Continued)
Environmental Division
Phone: 719-520-7878
Website: http://adm.elpasoco.com/Environmental%20Division
The Environmental Division manages duties related to Environmental
Compliance, Forestry & Noxious Weeds, Natural Resources, and
Household Hazardous Waste Disposal and Recycling.
Environmental Compliance ensures that County-owned and
operated facilities are compliant with all local, state and federal
environmental regulations.
Forestry & Noxious Weeds develops and implements policies,
procedures and standards for efficient mapping, monitoring,
enforcement, education and control of tree diseases, forest pests and
noxious weeds.
Natural Resources ensures compliance with
laws pertaining to threatened and endangered
species and wetlands, monitors conservation
easements and reviews subdivision
development plans for environmental impacts.
Household Hazardous Waste Disposal and Recycling
See Solid Waste on the following page.
The Environmental Division is staffed by 9 employees.
Environmental Division 2011 Budget:
Personnel
Operating
Capital
$ 209,393
$ 129,726
$
0
$ 339,119
51
Community Services Department (Continued)
Solid Waste Division
Phone: 719-520-7878
Household Hazardous Waste Disposal and Recycling
(Funded solely by the Solid Waste Disposal Site and Facility Users’ Fund)
The Solid Waste Disposal Site and Facility
Users’ Fund was created by the County
Commissioners in 1990 to help develop shortterm and long-range plans concerning
hazardous waste, environmental education and
recycling in the County. All funding comes
entirely from service charges collected at three
landfills in El Paso County.
The El Paso County Household Hazardous Waste Facility, located at
3255 Akers Drive, is where the citizens of El Paso and Teller counties can
properly dispose of their household chemical waste, electronic equipment
and medical waste. Homebound citizens can request to have their
household hazardous waste products picked up.
In addition, the Solid Waste Disposal Site and Facility Users’ Fund
sponsors the seasonal Black Forest Wildfire Mitigation Program, as
well as a year-round yard waste recycling program. It also provides the
public with information through publications available at the facility,
on-site facility tours, community outreach programs and on the County
website (www.elpasoco.com). Educational resources include publishing a
recycling directory designed to assist residents in locating businesses that
recycle materials and products not accepted at the County facility.
The Solid Waste Division is staffed by 5 employees.
Solid Waste Division 2011 Budget:
Personnel
Operating
Capital
$ 353,714
$ 698,218
$ 69,981
$ 1,121,913
52
Development Services Department
Development Services
Phone: 719-520-6300
Website: http://adm.elpasoco.com/Development%
20Services
Max Rothschild, Development Services Director
The El Paso County Development Services
MaxRothschild@elpasoco.com
Department provides a full range of planning
and land use review services, as well as enforcement of the land use code
and County ordinances.
This department also serves as staff support to the Planning Commission,
Board of Adjustment, Board of County and Commissioners and various
committees. Development Services provides engineering review of
development projects and is co-located with the Regional Building
Department for easier and more efficient coordination of projects under
County jurisdiction.
Development Services has a team-based,
project management approach, bringing
together planners, engineers and other
industry specialists to ensure effective,
convenient and comprehensive
customer service.
The Development Services Department is staffed by 21 employees.
Development Services 2011 Budget:
Personnel
Operating
Capital
$ 470,761
$ 801,578
$
36,179
$ 1,308,518
53
Budget Administration Department
Enterprise Zone Program
Phone: 520-6481
Website:
In 2010,
http://adm.elpasoco.com/BudgetAdministration/
contributions to
EconomicDevelopment
eligible El
El Paso County’s Enterprise Zone Program provides
Paso County
incentives for existing businesses to expand and for
Enterprise Zone
new businesses to locate in economically distressed
areas of the County. Local businesses that make
projects totaled
capital investments, hire new employees, conduct
over $4 million.
employee training, rehabilitate old buildings, or
perform research and development in the Enterprise
Zone may be eligible for tax credits on their annual Colorado income tax
filings. Over $5 million in tax credits were provided to local businesses
in 2010.
El Paso County has over fifty non-profit organizations that have been
approved as qualified Enterprise Zone projects. Businesses and
individuals who contribute to any of these projects are also eligible for
State income tax credits equal to 25% of monetary and 12.5% of approved
in-kind contributions.
Community Development Block Grant (CDBG) Program
Phone: 520-6476
Funded through the U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development
(HUD), the CDBG Program offers local governments and their citizens the
opportunity to address a wide range
of unique community development
needs focused primarily on lowand moderate-income residents.
In 2009, for the first time in history,
El Paso County became eligible to
receive HUD funding for planned
CDBG projects.
2009-2010 CDBG funding for
El Paso County totaled over two million dollars and was applied to 37
community-wide projects — where over 45,000 El Paso County residents
have directly benefited from expansion of public services, improvements to
public facilities and infrastructure and the development of housing
54
and economic development activities.
Department of Human Services
Phone: 719-636-0000
Website: http://dhs.elpasoco.com
Protecting children, youth and at-risk adults, and
promoting self sufficiency are the overarching goals
of the El Paso County Department of Human
Rick Bengtsson, DHS Director
RichardBengtsson@elpasoco.com
Services (DHS). DHS received 12,604 reports of
child abuse or neglect in 2010. Employees work with doctors, hospitals,
law enforcement officials, schools and others to identify maltreatment,
abuse and/or neglect. Services are focused on alleviating danger in order to
protect children and, if possible, keeping the family intact.
DHS is responsible for the administration of state and federal funding for
low income families in El Paso County. During 2010, a monthly average
of 25,570 households in El Paso County received food assistance
compared to 21,166 in 2009. Financial resources that local families
receive through DHS come from the federal government and translate to
additional dollars invested in our community. According to the State Food
and Nutrition Program, every $5 in food assistance benefits generates
$9.20 in total community spending. There are a wide variety of programs
at DHS that guide those receiving assistance toward self-sufficiency.
DHS Primary Services:
Safety of Children, Youth, Families
and the Community
Domestic Violence, Substance Abuse,
Physical/Mental Health
Adoption and Foster Programs
Center on Fathering
Child Care Referral Services
Job-Readiness Programs
Financial Benefit Programs
Community Partnerships
In 2011, El Paso
County has budgeted
General Fund
support of $12
million to Human
Services. The
remainder of their
$49 million projected
annual budget will be
funded by federal
and state funds.
55
Affiliated County Agencies
El Paso County Public Health
Phone: 578-3199
Website: www.elpasocountyhealth.org
El Paso County Department of Health and Environment has
changed its name to ―El Paso County Public Health.‖
Kandi Buckland, EPCPH Executive Director
The new, abbreviated title emphasizes the agency’s
KandiBuckland@epchealth.org
main focus — public health! The mission of El Paso
County Public Health is to protect and promote public health and environmental
quality in the community through people, prevention and partnerships. Most of
Public Health’s work is community-based rather than addressing individual health
care needs. Public Health is organized into four service divisions: Disease
Prevention and Control, Environmental Health, Health Promotion and Health
Services. In 2010, retail food establishment inspections became available online
and were accessed by thousands of visitors to the Agency’s website.
Public Health Awards and Honors
The National Association of County & City Health Officials gave El Paso County
Public Health a Model Practice Award in Public Health Communications for
innovation in combining a communicable disease investigation with social media
outreach to help meet the goal of protecting and saving lives.
Colorado Department of Public Health and Environment (CDPHE) presented its
Award of Excellence to El Paso County Public Health for the
Refugee Preventative Health Program — a collaborative with
In 2011, El Paso
Peak Vista and Lutheran Family Services.
County’s general
fund support of
The Vital Records Office scored one-hundred percent on all
three audits conducted by CDPHE and were presented a trophy Public Health is
and certificate for the Perfection Club. Only 19 agencies in the $2.9 or $4.66 per
citizen, per year
state received this award.
for prevention
El Paso County’s Public Health Lab successfully completed
and wellness
an inspection by the Centers for Disease Control and
services in the
Prevention and is registered as a member of the Laboratory
County. The
Response Network (LRN).
majority of the
2010 Disease Prevention and Wellness Services:
Agency’s $14.9
Immunizations: 13,410
million budget
comes from
Breast and Cervical Cancer Screenings: 831
state and
Retail Food Establishment Inspections: 4,126
federal grants
WIC Program Monthly Avg. Caseload: 15,021
and contracts.
WIC Food Vouchers Issued: $8,787,673
Nurse Family Partnership Client Visits: 4,070
56
Tobacco Prevention Outreach: 27,000
Affiliated County Agencies (Continued)
Pikes Peak Workforce Center (PPWFC)
Phone: 667-3700
Website: www.ppwfc.org
The PPWFC is a state agency administered through
Charlie Whelan, PPWFC CEO
El Paso and Teller Counties. PPWFC connects vital
Whelan.C@ppwfc.org
businesses with work-ready job seekers and
employer-driven services. PPWFC Business Relations Group (BRG) is a key
resource in the region to deliver services and resources needed to train, hire
and retain work-ready employees.
PPWFC works closely with the Greater Colorado Springs Economic
Development Corporation and regional Chambers of Commerce to bring new
employers to our region while helping current workers retain employment.
Business services include:
Recruiting and Personnel services — including job analysis, performance
coaching, job matching and skills testing.
Training and Education — including customized training for incumbent
workers and supervisors, and on-the-job training. (Programs listed in this
publication may not be available throughout the year and are subject to
change and eligibility requirements.)
Human Resource Consulting — including, employee handbook reviews,
wage and hour training, plus updates on the latest tax credits and incentives.
Industry Expertise — including community networking, industry
networking and industry consultants.
For job seekers, PPWFC offers services to assist with finding and retaining
employment. This includes short-term vocational training and workshops on
topics such Resume Writing, Career Scene Investigation, Online Job Search
and Job Networking-Groups. We also offer Computer Basics and Success
Profiler (emotional intelligence assessment). There is no charge for
these workshops.
Our networking groups provide ongoing support, information about regional
employment trends and sharing of job leads. Networking groups include
50-Plus, Job Search and Veterans Group.
57
El Paso County’s
Citizen Outreach Group Presents:
October 22 & 29, 2011
For more information visit:
www.elpasoco.com/citizenscollege