Pueblo County Commissioners have taken a stand against a proposed bill in the Colorado Legislature that aims to expand county commissions from three members to five.

House Bill 24-1177, introduced by Democrats Rep. Bob Marshall and Sen. Kevin Priola, would require counties with populations of 70,000 or more, like Pueblo County, to have five commissioners, with at least three elected solely by voters in their respective districts.

During a recent work session, the Pueblo County Commissioners voted 2-1 to oppose the bill. Commission Chairman Epimenio "Eppie" Griego and District 3 Commissioner Zach Swearingen supported a resolution against the bill, citing concerns about its financial implications and the potential circumvention of local voter input.

PRIME SPONSORS

• Rep. Bob Marshall (email)

• Sen. Kevin Priola (email)

District 2 Commissioner Daneya Esgar, on the other hand, voted against the resolution, stating that she wanted to wait for more information before making a decision.

Commissioner Griego expressed his opposition to the bill, emphasizing the financial burden it would impose. He highlighted the increased costs and potential tax hikes associated with expanding the commission, particularly in terms of the election office's budget. Griego emphasized that the bill is not feasible at this time and could strain the county's resources.

Swearingen echoed Griego's concerns and raised the issue of local representation. He argued that the bill would diminish the power and voice of the local constituency by shifting decision-making authority to Denver. Swearingen suggested that if the community desired a five-member board, it should be decided locally through a ballot initiative rather than imposed by the state legislature.

Commissioner Esgar took a more cautious approach, describing opposition to the bill as premature. She expressed the need to wait for potential amendments and alternative ideas regarding the bill's finances before determining her stance. Esgar pointed out that the bill is still in the early stages of the legislative process and has not yet reached a floor vote.

The commissioners also raised concerns about the financial implications of expanding the commission. They highlighted the additional costs of two commissioners' salaries, two administrators' salaries, and the necessary physical space and amenities for the expanded board.

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Currently, Pueblo County Commissioners receive an annual salary of $150,991 each, so the addition of two more commissioners would amount to an annual cost of over $300,000 for taxpayers.

As the debate continues, the commissioners of Pueblo County remain firm in their opposition to House Bill 24-1177.

They believe that the decision to expand the commission should be made locally, taking into account the specific needs and circumstances of their community. The financial impact and potential loss of local representation are key concerns for the commissioners as they advocate for the interests of their constituents.