cci steering committee meetings friday, september 12, 2014 9...

CCI Steering Committee Meetings

Friday, September 12, 2014 9 a.m. – 3 p.m.

(Please be advised this meeting is being recorded Teleconference: 1.857.216.6700 Passcode: 171009

AGENDA

WELCOME INTRODUCTIONS EACH STEERING COMMITTEE TO RECOMMEND PROPOSED LEGISLATIVE ISSUES FOR REFERRAL TO THE LEGISLATIVE COMMITTEE (October 3, 2014) EACH STEERING COMMITTEE TO FINALIZE POLICY STATEMENTS FOR REFERRAL TO THE LEGISLATIVE COMMITTEE (October 3, 2014)

9-10 a.m.

GENERAL GOVERNMENT Chair: Sean Conway, Weld County Vice Chair: Terry A. Hart, Pueblo County CCI Staff: Eric Bergman/Pat Ratliff

10-10:30 a.m.

TOURISM, RESORTS AND ECONOMIC DEVELOPMENT Chair: Lynn Padgett, Ouray County Vice Chair: Karn Stiegelmeier, Summit County CCI Staff: Brandy DeLange

10:30-11:15 a.m.

TAXATION AND FINANCE Chair: Steve Johnson, Larimer County Vice Chair: Deb Gardner, Boulder County CCI Staff: Gini Pingenot/Bill Clayton

11:15-11:45 a.m

TRANSPORTATION AND TELECOMMUNICATIONS Chair: Dan Gibbs, Summit County Vice Chair: Erik Hansen, Adams County CCI Staff: Eric Bergman/Tony Lombard

11:45 a.m.-12:15 p.m.

JUSTICE AND PUBLIC SAFETY Chair: Nancy Jackson, Arapahoe County Vice Chair: Kurt Schlegel, Elbert County CCI Staff: Andy Karsian

12:15-12:45 p.m.

Lunch Break

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12:45-1:30 p.m.

HEALTH AND HUMAN SERVICES Chair: Nancy Sharpe, Arapahoe County Vice Chair: Rose Pugliese, Mesa County CCI Staff: Gini Pingenot/Pat Ratliff

1:30-1:45 p.m.

AGRICULTURE, WILDLIFE AND RURAL AFFAIRS Chair: David Foy, Washington County Vice Chair: Kevin Karney, Otero County CCI Staff: Andy Karsian

1:45-2:30 p.m.

LAND USE AND NATURAL RESOURCES Chair: Don Rosier, Jefferson County Vice Chair: Roger Partridge, Douglas County CCI Staff: Andy Karsian

2:30-3 p.m.

PUBLIC LANDS Chair: John Martin, Garfield County Vice Chair: Rachel Richards, Pitkin County CCI Staff: Andy Karsian

PUBLIC LANDS BUDGET AND TRAVEL POLICY OTHER BUSINESS ADJOURN

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CCI Legislative Review Steering Committee September 12, 2014

* Risk/Difficulties 1 = low risk to counties/minimal political capital needed, 2 = moderate risk, 3 = high risk/political capital needed to pass

**County Commissioner Importance 1 = critical to BOCC county operations/budget, 2 = important BOCC county issue, 3= county technical fixes, important issues not directly related to county government

***CCI Time Commitment 1 = not time intensive and/or CCI not in the lead, 2 = ordinary time commitment 3 = very time intensive and/or county specific issue

General Government

County Jefferson

Legislative Issue Mercantile licensing. Title 12, Article 51 requires an auctioneer, other person or corporation to obtain a license from the BCC to sell any goods, wares or merchandise at a private sale or public auction (this extends to theatres, circuses and shows where admission is charged). The licenses fees are limited to not less than five nor more than one hundred dollars.

Proposed Solution Amend existing legislation. If there is resistance to repealing the entire article (C.R.S. 12-51), then amend statute to make it permissive. Existing state statute requires the BOCC to issue mercantile licenses.

Fiscal Impact None

Proponents / Opponents

Favorable to auctioneers and others who are aware of the statute and request a license

*Risk/ Difficulties

1

**County Commissioner Importance

2

***CCI Time Commitment

1

County’s Priority Ranking

2

County Jefferson

Legislative Issue Proof of Veterinary Rabies Vaccination. Foothills Animal Shelter has requested a change to CRS 30-15-101 to allow veterinarians to report rabies certification. It is believed that licensing compliance will increase if veterinarians are allowed to report rabies vaccination in addition to the dog (or other pet animals) owner.

Proposed Solution Amend existing legislation 30-15-101 C.R.S adding “and/or veterinarian” to the following sentence. No registration, permit or license shall be issued by any board of county commissioners unless or until the owner of a dog or other pet animal shall exhibit to such board or designated official a valid rabies vaccination certificate indicating the dog or other pet animal has been vaccinated against rabies by a licensed veterinarian.

Fiscal Impact Depends on veterinarians existing database

Proponents /

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Opponents

*Risk/ Difficulties

1


3


2


1

County Montrose

Legislative Issue Accountability of Special Districts. - Lack of financial accountability and oversight. - No statutory enforceable methods to bring non-compliant districts into compliance.

Proposed Solution Provide DOLA with enforcement capabilities including penalties for non-compliance.

Fiscal Impact Increased compliance would save time and money for the state and citizens.


Proponents acting independently of CCI: DOLA, State Auditor, Taxpayers. SDA would probably oppose.

*Risk/ Difficulties

3


2


2


1

County Mesa

Legislative Issue Allowing internet posting of public information instead of being required to post in publications or send mailers. Many county actions require published notice in newspapers, including those under C.R.S. 24-70-101 through 24-70-109

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(publication of legal notices), 30-25-111 (publication of county administration proceedings), and 39-11-105 (publication of delinquent tax lists). The methods currently required by law to provide public notice do not take into consideration the efficiencies provided by digital information. Citizens and counties alike are using digital methods to share and find information. Mesa County currently utilizes digital methods in addition to traditional mailing and ‘posting on bulletin boards’ to notify the public of meeting agendas, land use processes and other information. A change in legislation recently allowed water providers to post and distribute consumer confidence reports (CCR) electronically. In Mesa County, Ute Water Conservancy District announced "this change allows water providers to post and distribute the CCR electronically which saves money and protects the environment." A similar method should be considered to allow county governments to post and distribute information concerning county meetings, information and services.

Proposed Solution Allow counties to post this information on the Internet as an alternative to publication in a newspaper.

Fiscal Impact Cost savings to counties


Press Association will oppose.

*Risk/ Difficulties

3


2


2


1

County Douglas

Legislative Issue Ambiguity in CRS regarding the question of whether the Board of Canvass is a public body.

Senate Bill 14 – 161(Update Uniform Election Code 1992) in Section 25 amended CRS 1-10-101 creating subsection (4) as follows: 1-10-101 Canvass Board for partisan elections – appointment, fees, and oaths. (4) Any individual serving on a Canvass Board Pursuant to this article is immune from liability in any proceeding that is based on an act or omission of the individual if: (a) he or she was acting in good faith and within the scope of his or her official functions or duties as specified in this article; and (b) the violation was not caused by willful or intentional misconduct on the part of the individual. Douglas County has been involved in litigation over open records requests for their Canvass Board.

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Proposed Solution Amend CRS 1-10-101 (4) adding: “The Board of Canvass shall not be construed to be a local or state public body, nor acting as an agent or employee of the state or any subdivision thereof.”

Fiscal Impact


*Risk/ Difficulties

2


2


2


County Phillips

Legislative Issue Colorado Elections laws currently require primary ballots to show every race even if there are no candidates.

Proposed Solution Remove this requirement for the primary election ballots.

Fiscal Impact Reduces costs for programming and printing on county primary ballots.


County Clerks – Support

Political parties have opposed in the past.

*Risk/ Difficulties

3


2


2


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County Elbert

Legislative Issue

A judge recently ruled in Elbert County that the BOCC had violated the Colorado Fair Campaign Practices Act by using county resources to advocate for the passage of a ballot question on a tax increase. Instead of leveling a sanction against the BOCC for the violation, the judge instead leveled a fine at just one commissioner, acting in his individual capacity.

Proposed Solution

Amend statute to clarify that the BOCC - and not individual commissioners - shall be sanctioned if FCPA violations are found.

Fiscal Impact Neutral


No opponents expected

*Risk/ Difficulties

2


3


2


1

Health & Human Services

County Boulder / Pitkin

Legislative Issue

Increase license fees for retail food establishments to achieve an appropriate balance of funding between county governments and industry, as the statutory fee amount significantly under funds county provision of this service. County public health departments are responsible for inspecting and providing licenses for retail food establishments. The fees for Colorado’s Retail Food Program are set in state statute at a rate that significantly under-resources these food safety programs: Retail Food Program licensing fees only support 35-50 percent of actual service costs for health departments in Colorado. Because the fees are too minimal to cover the cost of inspecting and licensing, there exists an unreasonable imbalance between the costs borne by industry and those borne by county governments. The Retail Food Program protects the public by ensuring restaurants and other retail

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food establishments maintain safe and healthy standards. Program costs continue to grow as the focus on food safety increases. Because of inadequate resources, the full needs of food safety inspection and programming in Colorado are greater than can be met with current funding. In partnership with the state health department, county-based food safety programs have been working toward increasing efficiency and uniformity. Even with this work, an increased Retail Food Program license fee is needed to adequately operate food safety programs, protect the public from food-borne illnesses, and ensure a fair and appropriate cost balance between county governments and industry.

Proposed Solution

With Retail Food Program fee levels set in statute, any increase in these fees must be accomplished through state legislation. A few options have been identified for legislative action, and others may exist:

A simple increase in the current fee amounts; A fee increase in 2015, along with an incremental increase mechanism enacted

for future years; or A change in the fee structure, for example with greater fees imposed on higher-

risk or higher-need establishments.

Fiscal Impact Without a fee increase, ideally accompanied by an appropriate regular adjustment factor, increasing costs are borne by government with a decreasing share of the costs borne by industry. The last fee increase was passed in 2009, and currently programs are relying more heavily on government funding than on industry funding. We need to rebalance the proportion of industry funding for these important food safety programs. Colorado is working toward statewide consistency based on a uniform set of standards and a risk-based focus. These increased efficiencies may decrease costs in some areas, but not to 2009 funding levels or to adequately meet the growing need and protect public safety.


Subject to their individual organizational policy position processes, supporters could include: Colorado Association of Local Public Health Officials (CALPHO), Colorado Department of Public Health and Environment (CDPHE), Colorado Directors of Environmental Health, Western Colorado Association of Environmental Health Officers, Public Health Nurses of Colorado, and Colorado Public Health Association. During a successful legislative change in 2009, CDPHE and CALPHO worked closely with the Colorado Restaurant Association (CRA) to come to mutually acceptable bill language. At that time, CDPHE, CALPHO and CRA informally agreed to not raise fees in statute again for three years. While CRA might be a natural opponent to a fee increase, because of the former collaborative experience and because this proposal is coming after the agreed-upon three years have passed, CRA might be a cooperative stakeholder and remain neutral on or even support the bill. Proponents acting independently of CCI on this issue: No other proponent is known to be advancing this legislative issue at this time. CALPHO reports that it would be interested in supporting CCI in this effort and will be able to provide detailed information about Retail Food Program funding and expenses during bill development and during the session.

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*Risk/ Difficulties

2


1


2


County Boulder

Legislative Issue

Differential Response authority sunset/repeal and modification of Department authorization process/language

Background:

In 2010 legislation was passed to authorize the implementation of a child welfare differential response pilot in Colorado (HB10-1226). The pilot was authorized for five counties and legislation included authority for participating counties to address low to moderate abuse and neglect cases through a new approach – differential response – and directed the Board to promulgate rules for the implementation of DR. The pilot will sunset in 2015 and the entire statute will be repealed at that time. In 2012, legislation was passed to permit the expansion of DR to counties beyond the five pilot counties. Additional language was added to permit the ED of CDHS to select those counties that may implement the DR practice. The repeal clause for the DR program remained in place.

Proposed Solution

1. Remove the sunset provision in the DR statute to extend indefinitely the authority for DR. 19-3-308.3 (9) this section is repealed, effective July 1, 2015.

2. Current statute gives the executive director of CDHS sole authority to determine which counties can implement DR, without any specific language or criteria for requirements of counties to implement DR. Counties and the state shall work together to develop a process and set of criteria for the expansion of DR to new counties. Statutory language shall be modified to reflect this – either by indicating that implementation criteria will be added to rule or that counties and the state will jointly determine what the requirements are for counties to be eligible to participate in DR. The ED of CDHS will retain authority to approve the expansion of DR based on the eligibility requirements developed jointly by the state and counties.

19-3-308.3 (1) (a) There is hereby created the differential response pilot program, referred to in this section as the "pilot program", to allow selected county departments, on and after April 15, 2010, to address known or suspected incidents of interfamilial abuse or neglect that have been assessed, pursuant to rule of the state board, to be of low or moderate risk. The executive director of the state department shall select the

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county departments that participate in the pilot program, which county departments are referred to in this section as the "participating county departments".

Fiscal Impact None


Supporters/Opponents: CHSDA (if CCI supported) support, CDHS, child welfare advocates that supported the DR pilot. Proponents acting independently of CCI on this issue: None at this time.

*Risk/ Difficulties

2


2


2


1

County Douglas

Legislative Issue

Ensuring the protection of hotline recordings created through the new statewide Child Welfare Hotline (scheduled to be operational by January 1, 2015), from public release. While there is reason to believe that the current CRS (section 19-1-307(1), C.R.S. 2013) may already cover this issue to the extent it indicates, it is our understanding that CDHS is making changes to the state child welfare database, Trails, that will allow storage of the audio recordings of the referrals in Trails as something like a sound-wave file as part of Trails. The media and others could begin requesting such information and claiming that any refusal by a records custodian to release the audio recording is over broad in its attempt to protect informant information. The voice of the reporting party may be known to the parent, gender identification in context may be enough to identify the informant. This raises at least two issues: the unintended consequences or unfunded mandate of resources and staffing to review the audio recordings, make determinations about identifying information embedded in those recordings, and deletions from the audio recordings of identifying information – there could be a significant workflow and technical resource issue here that no one likely anticipated; and, a legislative clarification in case the legal analysis above doesn’t adequately address the issue.

Proposed Solution

Legislation that adds language to Section 19-1-307(1), C.R.S. 2013 to the effect that “Maintaining the confidentiality of the informant and associated identifying information also requires that the audio tape recordings of the actual referral contact or

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the actual referral contact, in whatever format it exists including print, is not subject to any disclosure, discovery or public release.”

Fiscal Impact


*Risk/ Difficulties

3


2


2


County Pitkin

Legislative Issue

Community paramedic programs are an innovative way to use existing community medical resources that may otherwise be idle to perform medical procedures such as: assessment, treatment, prevention, and referral. These services have been shown to improve community health results and lower costs. Colorado, unlike other states, does not have regulations or licensing procedures for community paramedicine. The State should promulgate a procedure to make it easier to license paramedicine programs in Colorado. Community paramedicine is a relatively new field with local programs emerging as a response to the need to control community health care costs. The CP model increases access to basic health care services through the use of specially trained Emergency Medical Service (EMS) personnel in an expanded role. Community Paramedics provide care in a non-urgent setting, consistent with the Medical Home Model (defined as patient-centered medical care led by a physician coordinating all aspects of preventive, acute and chronic care, using the best available evidence and technology), and under the supervision of an ordering physician or advance practice provider.

Unlike most healthcare providers, who get paid treating patients, ambulance services are defined by most insurance plans as strictly a medical transportation benefit. That means that if a paramedic successfully treats an asthma attack, diabetes patient, or drug overdose in the field and the patient refuses to go to the emergency department because they are feeling better, the ambulance service cannot recover the cost of delivering that care to the patient. Similarly, EMS agencies are only reimbursed if they transport a patient to an Emergency Department, as opposed to a less costly care

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setting. A recent article in Health Affairs estimated that allowing EMS agencies to transport to alternative facilities could save Medicare alone between $283- $560 million per year.

Community Paramedics expand the reach of primary care services by using a paramedic to perform procedures already in their skill set, such as: assessment (vital signs, blood pressure, labs: glucose levels, medication compliance), treatment (wound care, medication reconciliation), prevention (immunizations, fall assessment), and referral (medical and social services). Specific roles and services are determined by each community’s unique health needs, within the paramedic’s legal scope of practice, and consistent with medical direction. International programs have had success in reducing emergency transports and hospital readmissions by using the paramedic in this expanded role. Community Paramedic Programs are relatively new, and as a result lack formal recognition as a new class of EMS personnel in Colorado. In the absence of an appropriate training, certification, and licensure model, community paramedic programs are forced to seek licensing under more rigorous standards such as home health care licensing. These more rigorous standards create a barrier to Colorado’s communities in adopting a community paramedic program. This is especially true in rural Colorado communities where thinner resources may not allow smaller departments to meet more rigorous licensing standards.

Proposed Solution

Colorado needs legislation that formally recognizes community paramedics as a distinct provider, and clarifies their educational and training requirements for certification. Such legislation should direct the state EMS office to develop specific rules for implementation. Some states have recently engaged in similar legislation to define this new class of paramedics and address regulatory barriers to community paramedic initiatives that could serve as a template for Colorado legislation:

Minnesota passed legislation in 2011 that formally recognized community paramedics as a distinct provider, and clarified their educational and training requirements.

In 2012, Maine lawmakers removed regulatory barriers by authorizing up to 12 pilot programs throughout the state.

While Pitkin County would like to see legislation formally recognizing community paramedic programs as soon as possible, we are not prepared to offer specific legislative language, and as a secondary proposal would encourage CCI to create a study group to bring stakeholders together to develop legislation for the 2016 session.

Fiscal Impact Unsure


Colorado Coalition for the Medically Underserved/ Home Health Care Providers

*Risk/ Difficulties

2


3

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2


2

Justice and Public Safety

County Arapahoe

Legislative Issue

High Rate of Unemployment for Ex-Offenders. Ex-Offenders face multiple challenges when they attempt to settle back into their community after completing their sentence on a criminal conviction. This generally results in no employment opportunities or opportunities that pay less than a livable wage. Documentation of the fiscal impact of this dilemma is included in the attached paper entitled, “Workforce Centers: Supporting Successful Labor Market Reentry for Justice Involved (Ex-Offenders)” that was prepared for the Arapahoe/Douglas Workforce Investment Board. In some states after a person convicted of lower level offenses (e.g., felony 5 and 6 cases that are not sex offenses) and has completed their sentence and supervision, that person may petition the court to have their record sealed or expunged. This process acknowledges that the sentence for the crime has been completed so it is no longer necessary for that to be an impediment in the person’s job search and perhaps other aspects of the person’s life. In Colorado a criminal record can be sealed only if the offense qualifies per statute. There are different rules depending on whether an offender is attempting to seal his or her record for an arrest or for a conviction. For arrests, there are limited opportunities to seal records, generally, if the case falls in one of four categories:

Dismissed cases Cases involving some drug offenses Petty Offenses and municipal code violations Juvenile Record expungement

However, depending on the offense, the disposition of the case has to have resulted in a dismissal after a plea to be considered for sealing. Furthermore, it is necessary for ten or more years to have passed from the final disposition of all criminal proceedings against the offender or the offender must have been released from supervision concerning a criminal conviction, whichever is later. This requirement effectively renders the sealing of a case or expungement useless for an ex-offender who begins a job search upon completion of the sentence/reentry into the community. An offender must wait between one and ten years after final disposition or termination of supervision to petition for sealing of a drug conviction. For petty and municipal offenses, an offender must wait three years with no new felony misdemeanor or misdemeanor traffic charges to petition.

Proposed Solution

It is proposed that the Colorado General Assembly pass legislation that expands the types of cases that can be sealed or expunged upon completion of the sentence and that reduces the waiting time to file a petition to seal or expunge the record. Arapahoe

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County Government is willing to provide sample language to identify the case types and time requirements.

Fiscal Impact Due to the potential for an increase in the number of adult petitions, the courts will likely see an increase in workload, as well as additional income due to filing fees. It is unknown whether this additional income will offset the increased court costs. There should be lower recidivism statewide resulting in cost savings to the Department of Corrections, the courts, law enforcement agencies, as well as county and municipal jails. The employment rate of ex-offenders will likely improve resulting in an increased benefit to the Colorado economy. This will include an increase in state taxes being paid, a potential reduction in public assistance benefits, and an increase in child support being paid.


In addition to County Government, where there are expenses associated with higher incarceration rates due to recidivism of unemployed ex-offenders, it is likely that this proposed legislation will be supported by Colorado Workforce programs and the Judiciary, including Probation and Parole. It is possible that this proposed legislation will be opposed by employers and perhaps some victim groups.

*Risk/ Difficulties

1


3


1


County Rio Grande

Legislative Issue

Courthouse Security - Unfunded Mandate Under CRS13-1-201, it is the county's responsibility to provide security for state court facilities. A cash fund was created to assist counties with limited resources to provide this security. However, since this cash fund was created, the courts have requested more security than the county or the cash fund can provide.

Proposed Solution

Increase the cash fund or reduce the demands placed on the counties.

Fiscal Impact The dollar amount across the state is unknown. For Rio Grande County, the courts are requesting there be a t least 3 FTE security officers. Currently, the county is funded for 2 PTE's and 1 FTE and most of the fringe benefits. Also the continual maintenance on

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the scanners and entry systems are increasing each year and the state’s cash fund does not include maintenance. To meet these requests and requirements, Rio Grande County would need an additional $30,000 per year.


Most small counties will support increased funding. The State will object since it requires more funding.

*Risk/ Difficulties

1


3


1


Land Use & Natural Resources

County Jefferson

Legislative Issue

Acquisition of State Lands – Sunset Extension Local governments may purchase state board lands to augment open space within their jurisdiction. The law allows for a maximum of two transactions each year and all purchases must go through a publically noticed, fair market value assessment and must comply with all local and state regulations. The law passed four years ago with a five year sunset of July 1, 2015.

Proposed Solution

Extend the sunset date another five years to July 1, 2020. (C.R.S. 36-124.3 (5))


State Land Board, CML, SDA, Environmental Groups

*Risk/ Difficulties

1


3


1

County’s Priority

2

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Ranking

County Jefferson

Legislative Issue

Location and Extent Review. The statute, as written, requires that when a county has a planning commission and has adopted a master plan, that “(a) no road, park or other public way, ground or space, no public building or structure, or no public utility, whether publically or privately owned, shall be constructed or authorized in the unincorporated territory of the county until and unless the proposed legislation and extent thereof has been submitted to and approved by such county or regional planning commission. (d) the acceptance, widening, removal, extension, relocation, narrowing, vacation, abandonment, change of use, or sale or lease of or acquisition of land for any road, park, or other public way, ground, place, property, or structure shall be subject to similar submission and approval and failure to approve may be similarly overruled.” Every public utility, special district, quasi-public entity is required to obtain local county approval prior to project commencement. This is a cumbersome process.

Proposed Solution

Amend 30.28.110.1 (a) (d). Since the proposal has faced opposition in the past, a proposal giving a local jurisdiction the option whether or not to process and have the planning commission act on something such as a pipe in the ground or a pickle ball court at an existing park.

Fiscal Impact Lessen staff time processing applications


Public utilities and special districts would support

*Risk/ Difficulties

1


2


2


1

County Prowers

Legislative Issue

Tier level for smaller landfills. Regulations are currently one size fits all.

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Proposed Solution

Work with Action 22 and Rep Tim Dore to develop landfill tiers for smaller municipalities.

Fiscal Impact Reduce expenses for smaller landfills


Baca, Bent, Kiowa, Otero Counties

*Risk/ Difficulties

1


2


2


County Douglas

Legislative Issue

Senate Bill 14-134 (Concerning the repeal of statutory fee schedules applicable to water quality) attempted to repeal the statutory schedule of fees applicable to numerous categories and subcategories of water quality discharge permits; and give the CDPHE Water Quality Control Commission rule-making authority to set the fees for the various funds and categories of water quality discharge permits; among other actions. There was limited stakeholder process that preceded this attempt. The bill was PI’d. A new stakeholder process is currently underway. Just as local governments impose water quality fees that ultimately support the regulatory mandates imposed by the state of Colorado, we understand the need for the water quality fees imposed by the CDPHE Water Quality Division due in part to unfunded mandates by the EPA. Opposition to SB 134 and any subsequent efforts to move fees from statute to rule should not be construed as a push back on fees. Opposition is instead focused on a deep concern for creating the potential for fee increases and fee additions outside of the public process that the statutory placement of fees ensures. Any unfunded mandate that can be imposed without a public process – to include a stakeholder process to evaluate the unintended consequences to local governments – is unacceptable. We understand the need, but cannot support unsubstantiated, fee additions or increases outside of a public process and to include a regulated community impacts evaluation.

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Proposed Solution

We ask that CCI stay engaged in the interim stakeholder process during the summer and that CCI work with the stakeholder group to prepare for the 2015 session to prevent CDPHE from moving fee schedules from statute to rule.

Fiscal Impact


Supporters: Members of the Colorado Clean Water Coalition http://www.coloradocleanwatercoalition.com/ Colorado Storm Water Council and others. Proponents acting independently of CCI on this issue: CDPHE.

*Risk/ Difficulties

1


2


1


County Douglas

Legislative Issue

Prerequisites to the authority of a unit owners’ association to pursue resolution of disputes involving construction defects.

Proposed Solution

Support and become engaged in the working group that is planning the introduction of a version of Senate Bill 14-220 during the 2015 General Assembly.

Fiscal Impact


*Risk/ Difficulties

1


3


1

County’s Priority

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Ranking

County Pitkin

Legislative Issue

Local Flexibility to set fees for onsite waste water treatment systems. State statute establishes a maximum fee that counties may charge for permitting of onsite wastewater treatment systems and licensing of onsite wastewater treatment system professionals. A uniform maximum statewide fee does not take into account different market conditions, geographies, development patterns and service level expectations between counties that may drive program costs, and force counties to subsidize these programs with local tax dollars.

Proposed Solution

Amendments should be made to state statute to give Boards of Commissioners and/or local Boards of Health the ability to increase fees over the cap on permitting and licensing fees for onsite waste water treatment systems should be raised or eliminated to ensure fees are sufficient to cover the full cost of county programs

Fiscal Impact Depends on County. Most counties are not at the maximum fee allowed for onsite wastewater treatment system permitting. However, over time, counties will reach this maximum and will likely have to start subsidizing these programs if fee caps are not proactively addressed


*Risk/ Difficulties

2


3


2


4

Taxation & Finance

County Larimer

Legislative Issue

Urban Renewal Authorities (URA) and Tax-increment financing (TIF) has become a tool of choice for municipalities economic development strategies often impacting schools, counties and special districts. TIFs can reduce county revenue to the point that it threatens their ability to finance important county services.

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TIF is a public financing method that is used as a subsidy for redevelopment, infrastructure, and other community-improvement projects where primary financing occurs through property tax. The diversion of county tax dollars for 25 years without official input has harmed county revenue and their ability to provide basic county services.

Proposed Solution

Give counties and special districts affected by TIF the ability to have official standing to negotiate an acceptable intergovernmental agreement. Provide changes to statute that help level the “playing field” of the use of TIFs.

Fiscal Impact


*Risk/ Difficulties

3


1


3


County Adams

Legislative Issue

Clarification of Counties’ Authority to Impose a Special Sales Tax on Retail Marijuana. Background: Amendment 64 is a state constitutional amendment incorporating two fundamental changes to marijuana law and policy in Colorado. The amendment decriminalizes personal marijuana possession, growing, manufacturing and use. Amendment 64 further legalizes the opportunity for commercial development of recreational retail marijuana and its cultivation, manufacture, use and sale in many forms. In 2013, voter approval of Proposition AA provided Colorado the authority to tax recreational marijuana cultivation, production, and retail sales. However, Proposition AA did not provide clear authority to Counties to tax recreational marijuana.

Proposed Solution

A bill clarifying the authority held by counties to tax retail marijuana.

Fiscal Impact Adams County has conducted some preliminary financial impact analysis of the potential for a retail sales tax on recreational marijuana. Adams County estimates that the potential new revenue from a 3% sales tax on marijuana may range from $200,000 to $1,200,000 annually. These estimates anticipate a range of one (1) to ten (10) stores within the County. Clearly, each county’s assumptions will vary depending on a wide variety of factors including population density, demand for recreational marijuana, proximity to other existing recreational marijuana stores, etc. However, the ability to establish a sales

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tax on recreational marijuana will have a significant impact on the revenue potential for counties that establish recreational marijuana regulations.


Proponents acting independently of CCI on this issue: Senator Mary Hodge has agreed to sponsor a bill on this topic. Adams County’s lobbyist Jerry Johnson is also working with us on this topic.

*Risk/ Difficulties

2


1


2


County Pitkin

Legislative Issue

Create a fund to support energy efficiency programs and renewable energy projects in communities located in any of Colorado’s 64 Counties. Colorado is known for its leadership in energy resources from research to production of both fossil fuel resources and renewable energy. While oil, natural gas and coal have served our communities in economic development over the years, renewable energy and energy efficiency have also started a new economic development platform. From wind energy on the eastern plains to solar production in Xcel Energy’s communities and in rural cooperatives such as Holy Cross Energy, LaPlata Electric, United Power’s and many others, renewable energy resources have grown. Energy efficiency is recognized by the Public Utilities Commission as an energy resource. Through Xcel Energy’s Energy Resource Plans, the state has avoided adding on the order of 1000 MW of new power plant capacity to the state’s 11,000 MW power plant capacity. Many counties and communities across Colorado have adopted a goal to reduce energy use by 20% by 2020, but may not necessarily have the resources to achieve those goals. A dedicated pool of funds could help them achieve those goals, strengthen the local economy by creating jobs and keeping money in communities, and reducing pollution from power plants and reducing health care costs.

In 2009, the Department of Local Affairs (DOLA) created a one-time grant program with $10 million of severance tax funds to assist impacted communities in reducing energy costs and spur economic development with renewable energy and energy efficiency. Garfield Clean Energy Collaborative, is one example of that effort’s outcomes. Garfield Clean Energy (GCE) Collaborative is Colorado’s first-ever community clean energy

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authority and its efforts are yielding energy savings of more than $1.7 annually. The GCE received a $1.4 million grant to increase energy efficiency for governments, schools, businesses and residences. This grant program supported implementation of energy efficiency and renewable energy resources through public entities and their community programs savings energy costs in over 15 counties.

Proposed Solution

Legislation should be introduced to create a grant fund (using state general fund dollars) to be made available for the development of renewable energy sources and energy efficiency in counties throughout Colorado. Development and delivery of programs could be offered at the local level tailored to local community needs.

Fiscal Impact


Energy conservation proponents, renewable energy producers/oil and gas industry and possibly energy producing communities.

*Risk/ Difficulties

2


3


2


3

Tourism Resorts and Economic Development

County Washington

Legislative Issue

Welfare to Work Incentives for Businesses that Hire, Train, and Employ Recipients of Welfare. 174,800 people defaulted on federal student loans in the federal fiscal year 2013. Up 45% from 10 years earlier. 1.1 trillion in outstanding federal student loans at the end of March 2014 up 53% from

2007. In the 1970’s it became conventional wisdom that a four-year degree was essential.

But a 2012 Bureau of Labor Statistics study shows that 48% of all college graduates are working in jobs that don’t require a four-year degree.

According to the 2011 Skills Gap Survey by the Manufacturing Institute, about 600,000 manufacturing jobs are unfilled nationally because employers can’t find qualified workers.

Proposed Solution

This bill incentivizes companies, specifically companies that require a skilled trade (welders, construction workers, plumbers, pipe fitters, electricians, etc.), to hire and train

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citizens who have been on public assistance in their lifetime. An earned income tax credit of 100% of the newly employed first year’s wages will be given to participating legal businesses. Loss of state revenue will be offset by taxes paid by previously unemployed individuals working in Colorado’s economy consequently paying individual taxable income plus all other ancillary taxes associated with having disposable income.

Fiscal Impact There will be a direct fiscal impact on the state in the form of foregone income taxes. However, if dynamic modeling was used, the state would likely see fiscal benefits from the employment of public assistance clients. These individuals will pay income tax and may pay additional state and local sales taxes through their purchases. Additionally, they may no longer be consumers of public benefits. Another way to avoid adding additional legislation would be to amend existing statute 39-22-531. This legislation provides income tax credits to companies that create jobs in Colorado. In order to qualify for the credit, the newly created jobs must bring wages of at least 100 percent of the average wage of the county in which the new jobs are located. For clarification: This is intended to credit companies that hire individuals that have been on or are currently on public assistance. So with the modification to the existing statute we will still preserve the existing tax credit as it stands in current form and incentivize employers who hire individuals on or who have been on public assistance. The existing statute will be preserved in its entirety.


Economic Development Council and possibly CDHS (CO Works Program)

*Risk/ Difficulties

1



2


3

Transportation and Telecommunications

County San Miguel

Legislative Issue

Unlicensed, uninsured 10-15 year olds driving OHVs on Colorado’s high alpine jeep roads San Juan, San Miguel and Hinsdale counties have repeatedly been denied Colorado Parks & Wildlife OHV grant funds for law enforcement because these counties require driver’s licenses and insurance for all OHV users on county roads.

Proposed Solution

A bill to allow counties to require driver’s license and insurance for OHV users

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Fiscal Impact Fees for licensing should cover increased administrative cost to state and county. Insurance would be obtained privately.


Supporters: Hinsdale, San Juan, San Miguel, Ouray Counties, Jerry Abboud of COHVCO, The Blue Ribbon Coalition

*Risk/ Difficulties

2


2


2


1

Counties Ouray

Legislative Issue

Lack of uniform safety (and enforcement) measures for OHVs. 7th Judicial District ruling that treats Colorado-owned OHVs differently than OHVs from out-of-state. Summary of Important Outcomes:

10 page-ish bill vs HB12-1066 Uses HB12-1066 as a template for titling, license, registration, ag-exemption

aspects which had universal support during hearings at state legislature while omitting any HB12-1066 language in opposition to local control

Increased safety for all users/riders/operators and others on public access routes where OHVs are operated, while ensuring the alpine* counties are no longer to be considered "in conflict" with state statute

Due to increased safety, counties likely to repeal ordinances no longer needed and to consider opening new routes currently closed by counties to OHVs

Potentially fixes the Colorado 7th Judicial District ruling that treats co-owned OHVs differently than out-of-state owned OHVs (which currently encourages locals to use out of state corporations to purchase and own OHVs operated in CO)

Keeps OHV trails funds solvent and under Parks & Wildlife jurisdiction

Proposed Solution

Legislation to provide state-wide safety and implement the HB12-1066 positive components of titling/plating/registration needed to have safe trails and provide identification and other benefits for enforcement entities and owners of OHVs. Goal 1: five safety points and make state be in concert with the alpine counties, and have access to OHV trail program grant funds for alpine ranger program in the alpine counties

OHV must be operated by a licensed driver on all public streets roads and highways

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Operator must have proof of financial responsibility (liability insurance under current law)

OHVs must follow rules of road (where applicable such as seatbelts may be n/a)

Operators/riders < 18 years old must wear helmets and operators/Riders > 18 years old must wear eye protection

OHV speed limit will be a maximum of 35 mph except where posted for all vehicles as less than 35 mph

Goal 2: fix titling bill just passed to make it like what law enforcement, stakeholders supported (problems with current one are limiting it to dealer situations only.) And incorporate appropriate and widely supporting titling/licensing/and continued CPDOW OHV registration component for OHVs) Include in this 2015 legislation certain provisions from HB12-1066:

One-time purchase plate with title ("all OHVs will have a title") implemented within 12 months

Annual registration is OHV sticker to continue OHV fund benefits and sustainability

Include title/plate requirements which satisfied law enforcement, enviros, OHV users (yet to be agreed to) theft database and bank financing concerns supported in HB12-1066

Include annual registration for OHV sticker not through dept. Of revenue but it remains the OHV sticker program of CPOW.

Keep HB12-1066 ag exemption

Fiscal Impact Positive. One time title and license plate involves the Clerks. See Clerks and 2014 legislation for Clerk processing fee acceptable to Clerks. Registration done through Colorado Parks and Wildlife (formerly CDOW). Colorado Parks and Wildlife has no administrative burden for counties. Other positive financial impacts for state and counties/local governments likely.


Unknown, carefully crafted to touch the parts of HB12-1066 that seemed to have universal support, pre-vetted with COVCO and 4 San Juan Mountains area counties. Does not allow for any local control takings so CCI which is the only part CCI opposed on HB12-1066. Proponents acting independently of CCI on this issue: COVCO Other proponents of HB12-1066 likely supportive

*Risk/ Difficulties

2


2

***CCI Time 2

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Commitment


1

Counties Pitkin

Legislative Issue

In 2005 the state legislature adopted Senate Bill 05-152 concerning Local Government Competition in the Provision of Specified Communications Services. Of particular concern to local governments is that the bill specifically prohibits local governments providing broadband Internet services either directly or through public private partnerships to unserved or underserved portions of the community. Strictly interpreted public networks in County Facilities with upload / download speeds greater than 256kbs are also prohibited (a common feature in many public hearing rooms). The bill does not seem to mesh with several bills passed during 2014 aimed at providing incentives for expansion of broadband Internet services in rural communities. With support of large communications providers, Colorado passed SB 152 in 2005, which placed a significant roadblock in front of any local government efforts to invest in broadband deployment. Essentially, local governments are prohibited from investing in broadband networks, even in the case of public-private partnerships where the customer interaction is through a private sector partner, unless the project is approved by local voters. One of the unintended consequences of the legislation was its failure to anticipate opportunities for grant funding through local governments that may not be available to private entities.

Proposed Solution

Remove and/or amend portions of the bill placing restrictions on local governments’ investment in “advanced services” also known as broadband Internet.

Fiscal Impact Unknown


Likely supporters – local governments, small broadband Internet providers. Large telecom companies/broadband providers like CenturyLink, AT&T and Comcast are likely opponents.

*Risk/ Difficulties

3


2


2


1

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OHVUNIFORMSAFETYACTLEG2015FORCCITOCONSIDERSUPPORTING&RUNNINGASCCILEGISLATION(version1.3|LP‐JA)

SUBMITTEDBYOURAYCOUNTY

GOAL 1: FIVE SAFETY POINTS AND MAKE STATE BE IN CONCERT WITH THE ALPINE COUNTIES*, AND HAVE ACCESS TO OHV TRAIL

PROGRAM GRANT FUNDS FOR ALPINE RANGER PROGRAM IN THE ALPINE COUNTIES

OHV MUST BE OPERATED BY A LICENSED DRIVER ON ALL PUBLIC streets roads and highways

OPERATOR MUST HAVE PROOF OF FINANCIAL RESPONSIBILITY (LIABILITY INSURANCE under current law

OHV'S MUST FOLLOW RULES OF ROAD (WHERE APPLICABLE SUCH AS SEATBELTS MAY BE N/A)

OPERATORS/RIDERS < 18 YEARS OLD MUST WEAR HELMETS AND OPERATORS/RIDERS > 18 YEARS OLD MUST WEAR EYE

PROTECTION

OHV SPEED LIMIT WILL BE a maximum of 35 MPH EXCEPT WHERE POSTED FOR ALL VEHICLES AS LESS THAN 35 MPH

GOAL 2: FIX TITLING BILL JUST PASSED TO MAKE IT LIKE WHAT LAW ENFORCEMENT, STAKEHOLDERS SUPPORTED (PROBLEMS

WITH CURRENT ONE ARE LIMITING IT TO DEALER SITUATIONS ONLY.) AND INCORPORATE APPROPRIATE AND WIDELY

SUPPORTING TITLING/LICENSING/and continued CPDOW OHV REGISTRATION COMPONENT FOR OHVS)

INCLUDE IN THIS 2015‐CCI BILL CERTAIN PROVISIONS FROM 12‐1066:

1 TIME PURCHASE PLATE WITH TITLE ("ALL OHVS WILL HAVE A TITLE") IMPLEMENTED WITHIN 12 MONTHS

ANNUAL REGISTRATION IS OHV STICKER TO CONTINUE OHV FUND BENEFITS AND SUSTAINABILITY

INCLUDE TITLE/PLATE REQUIREMENTS WHICH SATISFIED LAW, ENVIRO,OHV‐USERS,(yet to be agreed to) THEFT DATABASE

AND BANK FINANCING CONCERNS SUPPORTED IN 12‐1066

INCLUDE ANNUAL REGISTRATION FOR OHV STICKER NOT THROUGH DEPT. OF REVENUE BUT it remains the OHV STICKER

PROGRAM OF CPOW.

KEEP 12‐1066 AG EXEMPTION

SUMMARY OF OUTCOMES ‐‐

10 PAGE‐ISH BILL VS 12‐1066

USES 12‐1066 AS A TEMPLATE FOR TITLING, LICENSE, REGISTRATION, AG‐EXEMPTION ASPECTS WHICH HAD UNIVERSAL

SUPPORT DURING HEARINGS AT STATE LEGISLATURE WHILE OMITTING ANY 12‐1066 LANGUAGE IN OPPOSITION TO LOCAL

CONTROL

INCREASED SAFETY FOR ALL USERS/RIDERS/OPERATORS AND OTHERS ON PUBLIC ACCESS ROUTES WHERE OHVS ARE

OPERATED, WHILE ENSURING THE ALPINE* COUNTIES ARE NO LONGER TO BE CONSIDERED "IN CONFLICT" WITH STATE

STATUTE

DUE TO INCREASED SAFETY, COUNTIES LIKELY TO REPEAL ORDINANCES NO LONGER NEEDED AND TO CONSIDER OPENING

NEW ROUTES CURRENTLY CLOSED BY COUNTIES TO OHVS

POTENTIALLY FIXES THE COLORADO 7th JUDICIAL DISTRICT RULING THAT TREATS CO‐OWNED OHVS DIFFERENTLY THAN

OUT‐OF‐STATE OWNED OHVS (WHICH CURRENTLY ENCOURAGES LOCALS TO USE OUT OF STATE CORPORATIONS TO

PURCHASE AND OWN OHVS OPERATED IN CO)

KEEPS OHV TRAILS FUNDS SOLVENT AND UNDER CPOW JURISDICTION

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Projected cash on hand on December 31,2014 3,500.00$ Projected reserve balance on December 31, 2014 8,500.00$ *appvd 12/2013

Budgeted dues for the year ending December 31, 2015 118,280.00$

BUDGETED EXPENSE ACCOUNTS - 2014Registrations 13,860.00$ Travel - Per Diem 6,250.00$ Travel - Air Fare & Fees 20,700.00$ Travel - Lodging 33,650.00$ Travel-Misc. 1,630.00$ Printing, Forms and Mailing 175.00$ Reports, Books & Publications 300.00$ Miscellaneous 215.00$ NACO / WIR annual dues 13,000.00$ CCI annual fee 28,500.00$ Archuleta 5,805.00$

Total Budgeted Expenses 118,280.00$ Grand 5,157.00$ Huerfano 2,177.00$ Lake 2,287.00$

Total budgetted expenses 118,280.00$ Larimer 6,000.00$ Reserve account 8,500.00$ Mesa 6,000.00$

County balance 23,000.00$ Otero 388.00$

2015 Public Lands Budget 149,780.00$ Park 6,000.00$ San Juan 412.00$ Weld 1,967.00$ Total 36,193.00$

PUBLIC LANDS COMMITTEE2015 Budget and Dues*

Unpaid Dues - 2014

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2015 2014 2014 2015 2015 2014 Difference

Counties Dues Payment* Acres PILT Dues Dues

With PILT Ratio

208,070$ 166,240$

ALAMOSA 1,168$ 193,906 78,149 0.56% 1,168$ 1,052$ 116$

ARAPAHOE -$ 1,660 4,613 0.00% 10 9$ (9)$

ARCHULETA 6,000$ 1,116,786 433,252 3.23% 6,729 5,805$ 195$

BACA 2,999$ 497,632 204,806 1.44% 2,999 2,672$ 327$

BENT 46$ 7,692 21,386 0.02% 46 293$ (246)$

BOULDER 2,169$ 359,944 163,446 1.04% 2,169 1,916$ 253$

CHAFFEE 6,000$ 1,246,037 502,621 3.61% 7,508 6,000$ -$

CLEAR CREEK 1,947$ 323,117 169,815 0.94% 1,947 1,628$ 319$

CONEJOS 6,000$ 1,114,508 500,887 3.23% 6,716 6,000$ -$

COSTILLA -$ 585 662 0.00% 4 5$ (5)$

CROWLEY 59$ 9,815 4,055 0.03% 59 52$ 7$

CUSTER 2,388$ 396,380 173,015 1.15% 2,388 2,131$ 258$

DELTA 994$ 164,966 415,923 0.48% 994 784$ 210$

DOLORES 906$ 150,401 418,155 0.44% 906 808$ 98$

DOUGLAS 1,853$ 307,519 144,671 0.89% 1,853 1,636$ 217$

EAGLE 6,000$ 2,191,645 851,401 6.35% 13,206 6,000$ -$

EL PASO 1,192$ 197,887 100,648 0.57% 1,192 1,064$ 129$

FREMONT 6,000$ 1,097,117 455,583 3.18% 6,611 5,873$ 127$

GARFIELD 6,000$ 3,026,294 1,187,316 8.76% 18,235 6,000$ -$

GILPIN 586$ 97,220 42,245 0.28% 586 509$ 77$

GRAND 5,856$ 971,914 795,733 2.81% 5,856 5,157$ 700$

GUNNISON 3,541$ 587,617 1,631,437 1.70% 3,541 3,143$ 398$

HINSDALE 847$ 140,616 677,715 0.41% 847 758$ 90$

HUERFANO 2,867$ 475,752 209,045 1.38% 2,867 2,177$ 690$

JACKSON 1,117$ 185,298 515,180 0.54% 1,117 983$ 134$

JEFFERSON 572$ 94,917 103,852 0.27% 572 582$ (10)$

KIOWA 103$ 17,041 10,552 0.05% 103 125$ (22)$

LA PLATA 4,582$ 760,455 432,917 2.20% 4,582 3,505$ 1,077$

LAKE 2,578$ 427,913 188,222 1.24% 2,578 2,287$ 291$

LARIMER 6,000$ 1,748,790 806,416 5.06% 10,538 6,000$ -$

LAS ANIMAS 3,665$ 608,259 302,989 1.76% 3,665 2,767$ 899$

LINCOLN 26$ 4,364 2,066 0.01% 26 25$ 2$

MESA 6,000$ 3,354,896 1,556,665 9.72% 20,215 6,000$ -$

MINERAL 738$ 122,539 521,745 0.35% 738 663$ 75$

MOFFAT 3,622$ 601,073 1,671,148 1.74% 3,622 3,197$ 425$

MONTEZUMA 1,040$ 172,637 479,944 0.50% 1,040 922$ 118$

MONTROSE 6,000$ 2,266,958 977,476 6.57% 13,660 6,000$ -$

MORGAN -$ 1,159 3,221 0.00% 7 6$ (6)$

OTERO 2,554$ 423,792 174,218 1.23% 2,554 2,253$ 301$

OURAY 2,323$ 385,448 159,497 1.12% 2,323 2,101$ 222$

PARK 6,000$ 1,526,243 704,615 4.42% 9,197 6,000$ -$

PITKIN 6,000$ 1,337,282 563,644 3.87% 8,058 6,000$ -$

PROWERS -$ 155 430 0.00% -$

PUEBLO 816$ 135,370 63,554 0.39% 816 664$ 152$

RIO BLANCO 3,249$ 539,122 1,498,908 1.56% 3,249 2,866$ 382$

RIO GRANDE 4,292$ 712,236 332,208 2.06% 4,292 3,948$ 343$

ROUTT 6,000$ 1,589,124 662,953 4.60% 9,576 6,000$ -$

SAGUACHE 5,881$ 976,053 1,397,786 2.83% 5,881 4,595$ 1,287$

SAN JUAN 473$ 78,489 218,222 0.23% 473 412$ 60$

SAN MIGUEL 5,597$ 928,867 488,260 2.69% 5,597 5,049$ 548$

SEDGWICK -$ 261 273 0.00% -$

SUMMIT 3,015$ 500,341 312,685 1.45% 3,015 2,742$ 273$

TELLER 1,691$ 280,653 161,080 0.81% 1,691 1,241$ 450$

WASHINGTON -$ 286 795 0.00% 2 2$ (2)$

WELD 427$ 70,924 197,190 0.21% 427 1,967$ (1,540)$

YUMA -$ 2,687 7,470 0.01% 16 14$ (14)$

149,780$ 34,530,642$ 23,702,760 100.00% 208,067$ 140,386$ 9,395$

2015 PUBLIC LANDS DUES CALCULATION of 61

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2015-2016 CCI Public Lands Steering Committee

Travel and NACo Public Lands Delegation Policies NACo Public Lands Delegation GENERAL POLICIES

The NACo Public Lands delegation shall consist of eight members. Six of the eight members shall be active participants of the CCI Public Lands Steering Committee. The other two shall be the CCI Public Lands Steering Committee Chair and Vice Chair. The Chair and Vice Chair will also serve as members of NACo’s Western Interstate Region (WIR), upon approval of CCI’s Board of Directors.

Only commissioners whose counties contribute to the CCI Public Lands Fund may be considered for a

NACo Public Lands delegate position.

Beginning in 2004, the term for members of the NACo Public Lands delegation is two years. Members of the delegation who are not officers of the CCI Public Lands Steering Committee may serve two terms but must reapply and run for a second two-year term after completion of their first term.

NACo Public Lands delegation members who have served two consecutive terms may run again after

being absent from the delegation for at least one two-year term. Service as Chair or Vice Chair of CCI’s Public Lands Steering Committee does not count as a term on the NACo Public Lands delegation.

MEMBERSHIP SELECTION

Beginning in 2012, elections to the NACo Public Lands delegation will be held in January at the first Public Lands Steering Committee Meeting. The commissioners who receive the most votes will be elected to the NACo Public Lands delegation. Elected commissioners will begin serving immediately and will serve for two NACo legislative conferences, two WIR annual conferences and two NACo annual conferences.

Pursuant to CCI’s bylaws, the Chair and Vice Chair of the CCI Public Lands Steering Committee are

voted on in January of odd-numbered years. The Chair may run for Vice Chair or for one of the six NACo Public Lands delegation positions. Conversely, the Vice Chair may run for Chair or for one of the six NACo Public Lands delegation positions.

In order to stagger terms, commissioners receiving the top three highest vote counts during the 2008

CCI Public Lands election shall serve one, three year term. This is a one time only term.

VACANCIES If vacancies occur during a two-year term, the CCI Public Lands Steering Committee Chair will make

the appointment(s). The Chair will appoint the commissioner(s) who received the next highest number of votes in the previous election and is otherwise qualified to serve. If a vacancy occurs after the second NACo legislative conference of a delegate’s term, a commissioner appointed to fill a vacancy may serve the remainder of the term for which they have been appointed and are still eligible to run for two, two-year terms.

VOTING The election of NACo Public Lands delegation members are made only by counties who pay into the

CCI Public Lands fund.

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Only those members in attendance – either by phone or in person – during the CCI Public Lands

Steering Committee meeting where voting occurs may cast a ballot for members of the NACo Public Lands delegation.

In accordance with CCI’s bylaws, each county has one vote. A county’s vote may be split among

commissioners from that county who are otherwise entitled to vote.

If a tie should occur, a run-off election will be held at the current and/or next scheduled CCI Public Lands Steering Committee meeting at the discretion of the Chair.

Travel Public Lands Committee members travel to NACo conferences and other meetings. This policy is intended to clarify procedures for travel, hotel accommodations and conference/meeting registration procedures. The Public Lands Steering Committee Chair approves all travel. Authorized Conference Attendance CCI member-counties with public lands contribute to a fund that includes monies for authorized Public Lands Steering Committee members to attend NACo, WIR and other conferences and meetings. Conferences for which there has typically been authorization and reimbursement include the following for 2015-2016: NACo Legislative Conference February 21-25, 2015 Washington DC WIR May 20-22, 2015 Kauai, HI NACo Annual Conference July 10-13, 2015 Charlotte, NC WIR Board Meeting (attended by Colorado’s WIR board members) October, 2015 TBD (Other travel might include special fly-ins, hearings or meetings where it is beneficial for the Public Lands Steering Committee to be represented.) The CCI Public Lands Steering Committee has authorized payment of travel, accommodations and conference/meeting registration costs for up to 8 Commissioners and one CCI staff person. The CCI Executive Director determines the staff person assigned to attend. Authorized Conference Expenses

The Committee Chair is the contact for questions and approval regarding Committee travel.

The CCI Public Lands fund pays authorized member transportation to and from the home county to the conference site, including airfare or ground transportation up to the cost of airfare; conference registration, and hotel accommodations at a conference hotel or one approved by the Committee Chair.

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Members will be eligible for a per diem of $50 for all travel other than to Washington DC. A travel

advance for authorized per diem will be provided to each Public Lands conference attendee unless he/she contacts CCI two weeks prior to the departure date to cancel the advance. All or a portion of per diems are returned to CCI if travel is cancelled or members return early.

The per diem is paid at one half ($25) for travel days. The Public Lands Steering Committee does not reimburse for spouse travel. Airport parking is paid up to a total of $30 per trip. Any amount for parking over $30 is paid by the

conference attendee. If an attendee registers late for a conference, the attendee must pay the difference between the early rate

and “late” conference registration fee.

Hotel nights are paid for dates of conference only. Extra days before or after the conference are not paid unless attendee must attend a conference function the afternoon or night before the conference begins or the attendee must arrive the night before to attend an early morning conference meeting.

Registration Procedure

CCI’s Conference Coordinator will forward a “CCI TRAVEL FORM” to each traveler prior to making arrangements. The CCI travel form must be returned to CCI by the date specified before conference arrangements are made. The purpose of the form is to provide “backup information” for both the accounting department and the CCI auditors. After the form is returned to the Conference Coordinator, tentative travel dates and times will be sent to traveler for their review. Due to potential increases in fares and flights being “sold out”, decisions on travel dates and times need to be made as quickly as possible. Conference registrations are made two months prior to the event.

CCI Conference Coordinator registers members and pays the meeting or conference registration fee.

CCI Conference Coordinator registers attendees at the selected hotel, or for a different hotel approved by

the Committee Chair. A CCI credit card is used to hold the hotel room. (Staff should be apprised of any special requests or needs and will do their utmost to accommodate them.)

The CCI Conference Coordinator forwards per diem checks, travel information (e-tickets, etc.), hotel

confirmations, reimbursement forms and additional conference information to attendees.

Conference expenses must be submitted to CCI (to the attention of the Conference Coordinator) for reimbursement within 30 days of travel. Additionally, the attendee requesting reimbursement must complete and sign the “Travel Reimbursement Request” form. Hotel and all other receipts plus copies of travel tickets and the flight boarding pass must be attached. Typically for NACo and WIR Conferences, a conference report is offered by at least one delegate at the next CCI Public Lands Steering Committee meeting.

When a member decides to return early from a conference, they are responsible for the difference in

ticket costs and the fees for the ticket change. If there are savings from canceling the hotel stay, that amount can be deducted from the costs of changing the ticket.

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Cancellation Policy Other than in emergencies, (to be determined by the Public Lands Committee Chair) the member is

responsible for the cancellation and change costs of conference registration, flights or hotel expenses that have already been paid with Public Lands funds, for example, Public Lands can be charged from a half to the full amount of registration costs depending on when the cancellation occurs.

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CCI LEGISLATIVE PRINCIPLES 1 2 The principles outlined below are the result of discussion held at all five district meetings in August 2009. 3 They are meant as self-enforcing principles that allow CCI members to make final determination in each 4 instance. All meetings will be run in accordance with Robert’s Rules of Order as indicated in the CCI Bylaws. 5 In every case, a CCI initiated bill needs sponsors, an appropriate coalition to support the measure, the support 6 of CCI members and consistent lobbying and vote counting to be successful. 7 8 CCI’s steering committees should be presented, through staff assignment of legislation, those bills which will 9 clearly have an impact on county responsibilities and interests. Before initiating a bill or taking a position, 10 CCI should also carefully consider the likelihood of success of a legislative proposal. In this way we keep the 11 faith with legislators who support us and sponsor our bills. CCI should be conscious of fiscal realities when 12 considering initiating or taking a position on a piece of legislation. Bills that could have an effect on our 13 members’ responsibilities, if modified, should be monitored by CCI staff and brought to the steering 14 committee if a change in the bill warrants consideration of a position. 15 16 CCI initiated legislation should be realistic and closely related to the conduct of our members’ responsibilities 17 if we are to retain a high level of credibility. CCI’s primary focus should be on matters of importance to our 18 members. Local elected officials groups, county and otherwise, as well as other interest groups, should be 19 encouraged to find sponsors for and initiate their own proposals, allowing our members and CCI to take a 20 supportive role when the bill is introduced. 21 22 All issues for deliberation should be placed on the appropriate committee agenda in a timely manner in 23 accordance with CCI’s 5-day advance notice policy to allow adequate consideration. 24 25

26 27 28 29 30 31 32 33 34 35 36 37 38 39 40 41 42 43 44 45 46 47 48 49 50 51 52 53

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PREAMBLE 1 2 County commissioners, as elected officials representing the interests of their citizens through Colorado 3 Counties, Inc. (CCI), affirm the following principles for effective governance. 4 5 UNFUNDED MANDATES AND THE REAL COLORADO INITIATIVE 6 7 In order to effectively serve the needs of their communities, county officials must have the resources and 8 authority commensurate with the responsibilities placed on them by state and federal laws, regulations and 9 court decisions. 10 11 The state and federal government must exercise fiscal restraint and responsibility. CCI strongly opposes cost 12 shifting from the state and federal government to local governments. In all decision making, state 13 government should refrain from solving state budget shortfalls with county government resources. 14 15 CCI also strongly supports the provision of adequate funding for any future state or federally-imposed 16 mandates upon local government, including the need for technology improvements necessary to fulfill these 17 mandates. 18 19 State and federal government should base decisions about laws and regulations affecting county governments 20 on comprehensive data and measurable outcomes. Relying on these two standards to scrutinize existing and 21 proposed laws and regulations will help reduce unnecessary, unfunded or underfunded mandates, streamline 22 government and utilize limited resources more efficiently. 23 24 State and federal officials should also consider other programmatic models that might exist and the possible 25 limitations on local control that might result from new legislation, rules or regulations. The most effective 26 governance results from local, state and federal officials working in true partnership toward the development 27 and implementation of programs and services. 28 29 LOCAL CONTROL AND FLEXIBILITY 30 31 County officials are elected officials closest and most responsive to the citizens. We strongly support the 32 concept of true home rule power and authority for counties consistent with those given to municipalities. 33 34 CCI supports regulatory and legislative efforts enabling volunteer organizations to continue providing 35 services to their communities. 36 37 INTEGRITY OF THE RULE-MAKING PROCESS 38 39 County officials oppose any administrative effort to promulgate rules and regulations that interpret the law in 40 a manner negatively impacting counties. We believe county commissioners are important and necessary 41 stakeholders in any rule-making process and will oppose any efforts to exclude counties from participating in 42 legislative and regulatory efforts. 43 44 INTERGOVERNMENTAL PARTNERSHIPS 45 46 Counties recognize the important role all levels of government play in our intergovernmental system. We 47 respect the unique and important roles of the federal, state and local government, and believe counties are 48 more than an administrative arm of state government. We support efforts to provide counties with the 49 greatest autonomy and flexibility possible. 50 Commissioners represent the interests of their constituents, and counties must be viewed as partners, not as a 51 “special” interest. Counties must be involved in executive department restructuring that directly affects 52 county operations and programs administered by county government. 53

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COUNTY REPRESENTATION 1 2 CCI supports realistic and equitable recognition of the role of county government in carrying out coordinated 3 government programs, including commissioner representation on state boards and commissions whose 4 decisions affect county government. 5

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AGRICULTURE, WILDLIFE AND RURAL AFFAIRS 1 2

3 AGRICULTURE 4

5 CCI recognizes agriculture is an essential economic sector and supports activities and measures that 6 work to ensure the profitability of agriculture. CCI supports programs that encourage state owned 7 and operated facilities to use Colorado agricultural products where feasible. CCI supports efforts to 8 promote the agriculture industry in Colorado. CCI supports right-to-farm ordinances and the 9 acquisition of conservation easements and conservation leases to maintain agricultural uses. CCI 10 supports efforts that manage and minimize noxious weeds, undesirable plants, rodents, insects and 11 other negative impacts and undue burdens on agricultural interests. CCI endorses Colorado’s 12 strategic plan to stop the spread of noxious weeds and works with other endorsing organizations in 13 the public and private sectors to implement this plan. CCI supports current Colorado open range 14 laws and fence laws and will oppose any changes that weaken those existing laws. CCI supports the 15 management of fuel loads and healthy forests. CCI recognizes the unique needs of producers and 16 opposes actions that jeopardize the viability of the agricultural industry and which fail to respect 17 private property rights. CCI supports the policy that land classified as agriculture and the assessed 18 valuation of agricultural land should be based on production capacity versus market value. 19 20 WETLANDS 21 22 Wetlands are critical to the viability of agriculture, wildlife habitat and the environment. CCI 23 believes the public-at-large, not individual property owners, must bear the burden to protect vital 24 wetlands. CCI urges Congress and the states to review practices, statutes and policies in order to 25 protect agricultural interests. 26 27 WATER 28 29 CCI recognizes adequate supplies of water are critical to the agricultural industry and that water is 30 one of Colorado’s most precious natural resources. CCI supports Colorado’s doctrine of prior 31 appropriation, necessary water conservation efforts and reuse efforts to seek and maintain state 32 primacy and county control, the application of county powers, including 1041 powers, to water 33 projects to address local impacts, and protection of Colorado’s water resources. CCI believes that 34 1041 powers must be broadly and liberally construed to ensure maximum flexibility and authority 35 for counties and will oppose any attempt to limit the application of local 1041 powers. CCI 36 supports cooperative statewide water planning efforts which do not negatively impact the basin of 37 origin communities and are supported by those communities. CCI opposes attempts by the federal 38 government to usurp the system of prior appropriation in the issuance of necessary federal permits 39 and opposes federally reserved water rights. CCI supports efforts to maintain and seek state 40 primacy of federal water quality programs and believes provision of adequate funding to counties is 41 essential to ensure compliance with the federal Clean Water Act. 42 43 WILDLIFE 44 45 Wildlife resources, in addition to their inherent values, provide crucial economic benefits to all 46 citizens and CCI supports enhancement of the local government role, including the creation of 47 wildlife advisory committees in the management and utilization of Colorado’s wildlife resources. 48 CCI encourages the Colorado Division of Parks and Wildlife to work with counties in conducting 49 actual census counts of big game populations to calibrate existing population estimate models. CCI 50 supports efforts of the Colorado Wildlife Commission and the Colorado Division of Parks and 51 Wildlife to manage species appropriately with due consideration of cost-benefit and economic 52 impacts. CCI endorses activities that improve hunting and fishing within the state consistent with 53

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local authority while minimizing and mitigating impacts from hunting and fishing on other affected 1 areas and private property. CCI supports management of predatory animals and seeks funding from 2 the Legislature to help offset these costs. CCI supports reasonable reimbursement for damage to 3 crops and other private property caused by wildlife. CCI supports efforts to amend the Endangered 4 Species Act in order to improve flexibility under the act. CCI demands consideration of sound-5 science, cost-benefit and economic impact analyses and recovery plans when proposing species for 6 listing and balancing of the impact of the Endangered Species Act with that of other legislation. 7 CCI supports proactive and creative efforts to restore or reintroduce endangered species considering 8 all potential impacts and subject to local government involvement and approval. 9 10 RURAL AFFAIRS 11 12 CCI recognizes the uniqueness and necessity of rural counties in Colorado and urges county and 13 state officials to take a strong leadership role in revitalizing communities in their county. CCI 14 believes local control is essential and will oppose any efforts to supersede, override, preempt or limit 15 local authority. CCI supports programs assisting rural communities with development and fostering 16 sustainable rural economies. CCI supports full staffing and funding of all Colorado State University 17 Cooperative Extension and Research and Experiment Station agent positions by Colorado State 18 University and believes counties must have a voting seat on the CSU Extension Advisory Board due 19 to county contributions to this program. CCI opposes renewable energy mandates that will result in 20 undue fiscal hardship to rural agriculture users. 21 22 UNIVERSAL ACCESS 23 24 CCI supports the adoption of telecommunications policy that encourages equitable access to 25 telecommunications services (especially high speed internet access) in both urban and rural areas but 26 that does not unduly burden any single segment of the telecommunications market. CCI supports 27 the development of federal resources and other mechanisms to assist providing telecommunications 28 services, including both data and voice transmission, to all areas. Universal service funds should be 29 paid into by all communication service providers and should be used for the purpose of maintaining 30 and enhancing service in high cost areas. 31

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GENERAL GOVERNMENT 1 2 COUNTY POWERS 3 4 County government should have power and resources commensurate with the responsibilities 5 placed upon it. Where a service or function is a matter of local concern, local legislative authority is 6 both appropriate and desirable. Counties assume a municipal role for many citizens in 7 unincorporated areas by offering law enforcement, transportation, parks and recreation, waste 8 management, sewer and other services. CCI supports passage of legislation enhancing these county 9 powers, including enhancement of the functional home rule option, and encourages ongoing study 10 to determine the need for state legislation that better provides tools and resources for counties to 11 deliver services at the local level. CCI strongly supports prior county approval of programs that must 12 be funded with county property taxes but are not controlled or generated at the county level. 13 14 STATE AGENCY ACCOUNTABILITY 15 16 CCI believes that state agencies deriving revenue from locally assessed fines, fees, permit processes 17 and document review must clearly justify and quantify the local benefit of the tasks funded by these 18 revenues. 19 20 JUDICIAL REVIEW 21 22 CCI supports continued access to the courts by counties to secure judicial review of governmental 23 agency actions. 24 25 SPECIAL DISTRICT REVIEW 26 27 CCI supports continuing county control over the formation, modification, and continuation of 28 special districts. 29 30 ECONOMIC DEVELOPMENT 31 32 CCI urges and supports a strong partnership among counties, the state, municipalities and private 33 business and industry in the design and implementation of economic development incentives and 34 programs. 35 36 COUNTY ADMINISTRATIVE AND PERSONNEL CONTROL 37 38 CCI supports counties’ right to full indemnification from the state for liability resulting from the 39 actions of employees in the course of state mandated duties. 40 41 WORKERS’ COMPENSATION 42 43 CCI supports workers’ compensation reforms that will assist in better risk management and health 44 care cost containment, as well as proposals that will lower other associated costs. CCI opposes 45 mandates that raise workers’ compensation costs. 46 47 GOVERNMENTAL IMMUNITY 48 49 CCI supports maintaining the protection afforded by the governmental immunity statutes. 50 51 LAW ENFORCEMENT AND CRIME 52 53

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CCI supports a continuum of approaches to prevent youth and gang violence, ranging from 1 increased efforts to punish criminal activities to designing effective prevention and early intervention 2 programs for youth and families at risk. Where possible, programs should remain flexible to permit 3 development of locally appropriate solutions. CCI supports continuing counties’ ability to enforce 4 the law. 5 6 PRIVATE PROPERTY RIGHTS 7 8 CCI strongly supports preservation of private property rights, including water rights, and 9 government responsibility to provide just compensation for the taking of private property as defined 10 by the Colorado Constitution and the United States Constitution. CCI recognizes the necessary 11 balance between private property and the public interest. 12 13 ELECTIONS 14 15 CCI supports equitable sharing of the costs of elections by all governmental entities with a stake in 16 elections. CCI supports giving county governing bodies, in consultation with county election 17 officials, the option to have any election conducted by mail-in ballot, acknowledging that there may 18 be reasons that a mail-in ballot election is not appropriate in certain cases. 19 20 ELECTED OFFICIAL COMPENSATION 21 22 CCI believes the compensation of all county elected officials should be changed simultaneously to 23 avoid tension between elected officials that results from salary increases being awarded to some but 24 not others. CCI also supports reasonable, incremental and appropriate adjustments to 25 compensation for elected officials at least every four years. 26 27 SALARY REPORTING REQUIREMENTS 28 29 CCI strongly supports equal treatment in the statutes regarding the responsibility of municipalities, 30 special districts and counties to report personnel salary information. CCI also supports giving 31 counties flexibility in methods of reporting county personnel salary and financial information. 32 33 PRIVATIZATION 34 35 CCI believes privatization can be an effective management tool in the delivery of goods and services 36 from local governments to their residents. Given the unique geographic characteristics, economic 37 needs and other special circumstances of the various areas of Colorado, CCI believes privatization 38 determinations should be made at the level closest to the taxpayers, not at the state level. 39 40

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HEALTH AND HUMAN SERVICES 1 2 3 HEALTH AND ENVIRONMENT 4 5 PUBLIC AND ENVIRONMENTAL HEALTH 6 7 MISSION AND FUNCTIONS 8 9 It is the policy of CCI that the health of the public be protected and promoted to the greatest extent 10 possible through the public health system while respecting individual rights to dignity, health 11 information privacy, nondiscrimination, due process, and other legally protected interests. 12 13 CCI supports the mission of state and local public health agencies to provide leadership and protect 14 and promote the public's health by: (1) Promoting healthy conditions; (2) Providing or promoting 15 the provision of essential public health services and functions that are appropriate for the 16 populations being served; (3) Encouraging collaboration among public and private sector partners in 17 the public health system; and (4) Seeking adequate funding to provide essential public health services 18 and functions or accomplish public health goals through public or private sources. 19 20 This policy statement shall not be construed to require an individual or agency within the public 21 health system to provide specific health services or to mandate local public health agencies to 22 implement unfunded programs. CCI supports increasing state funding for local public health. CCI 23 advocates for a stable, long-term, state funding source. CCI supports licensing, inspection, quality 24 improvement, and health protection functions and an equitable system allowing counties to recoup 25 their costs. 26 27 CCI acknowledges public health’s core functions to assess the community’s health and recommend 28 policies to improve the public’s health identified by the center for disease control, national 29 association of county health officers, and the American Public Health Association. 30 31 CCI recognizes the following as essential public health roles: (1) Monitor health status to identify 32 and solve community health problems; (2) Investigate and diagnose health problems and health 33 hazards in the community; (3) Inform, educate, and empower individuals about health issues; (4) 34 Mobilize public and private sector to identify and solve health problems; (5) Develop policies, plans, 35 and programs that support individual and community health efforts; (6) Enforce laws and 36 regulations that protect health and ensure safety; (7) Link individuals to needed personal health 37 services; (8) Continue to provide or work toward the provision of health care when otherwise 38 unavailable; (9) Encourage a competent public health workforce; (10) Evaluate personal and 39 population-based health services; and (11) Research for new insights and innovative solutions to 40 health problems. 41 42 ROLES AND RESPONSIBILITIES 43 44 CCI supports state and local government’s responsibility for assuring that the health system 45 accomplishes the mission of public health as long as adequate resources are available to do so. While 46 certain public health functions must be performed by state and local public health agencies, these 47 agencies may also collaborate with public and private sector partners within the public health system. 48 The provision of essential public health services and functions are shared goals of the public health 49 system to achieve the mission of public health. 50 51 52 53

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PUBLIC HEALTH POWERS 1 2 CCI recognizes that state and local public health agencies should be authorized to provide or 3 implement the following essential public health services and functions: (1) Utilization of a broad 4 range of flexible powers to protect and promote the public's health including compulsory or 5 mandatory power; (2) Provision of public health information, programs, or messages to the public 6 that promote healthy behaviors or lifestyles or educate individuals about health issues; (3) Promotion 7 of efforts among public and private sector partners to develop and fund programs or initiatives that 8 identify and ameliorate health problems; (4) Provision or endorsement of performance management 9 standards for the public health system; (5) Development and provision of certification, credentialing, 10 or effective training for members of the public health workforce; (6) Development, adoption, and 11 implementation of public health plans that guide or support community public health efforts; (7) 12 Establishment of formal or informal relationships with private sector partners within the public 13 health system; (8) Enforcement of existing laws and administrative regulations (including 14 emergency regulations), and proposal of new laws, amendments to existing laws, or administrative 15 regulations that may serve as tools to protect the public's health; (9) Identification, assessment, 16 prevention, and amelioration of conditions of public health importance through surveillance, 17 epidemiological tracking, program evaluation, and monitoring and screening programs; treatment; 18 abatement of public health nuisances; administrative inspections or other techniques; (10) 19 Promotion of the availability and accessibility of quality health care services through health care 20 facilities or providers; (11) Promotion of the availability of and access to preventive and primary 21 health care when not otherwise available through the private sector, including acute and episodic 22 care, prenatal and postpartum care, evidence based home visitation programs, child health, family 23 planning, school health, chronic disease prevention, child and adult immunizations, testing, and 24 screening services, dental health, nutrition, and health education and promotion services; and (12) 25 Systematic and regular review of the public health system to recommend modifications to improve 26 public health outcomes. 27 28 CCI supports initiatives that provide comprehensive local and state solutions; that focus on 29 preventive, cost-effective and locally flexible approaches; and that manage, fairly distribute and 30 leverage resources. CCI opposes the preemption or elimination of local health and environmental 31 rules and policies. Any Medicaid managed care system should address access to quality care. 32 33 BEHAVIORAL HEALTH POLICY 34 35 CCI supports an enhanced state focus on and adequate state and federal funding to provide locally-36 based efficient and effective behavioral health services. CCI supports implementation of exemplary 37 local programs through state-funded incentives. CCI supports removal of funding barriers to 38 evidence-based practices. 39 40 CCI supports collaboration among state and county departments of human services, law 41 enforcement, judicial, mental health centers and substance abuse providers on all behavioral health 42 issues that are of mutual interest. CCI supports efforts to structure state departments to facilitate 43 collaboration. Placing mental health and substance abuse treatment and funding under various 44 departments discourages effective treatment for individuals with co-occurring disorders. Mental 45 illness and substance abuse diagnosis and treatment services should be consolidated so people with 46 co-occurring disorders can achieve recovery. 47 48 CCI is in support of legislation that promotes effective and coordinated mental health and substance 49 abuse treatment through the appropriate sharing of information. 50 51 CCI supports training of law enforcement officers to more effectively recognize and take 52 appropriate action with offenders who have mental health and/or substance abuse disorders. 53

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Appropriate diversion for mental illness and substance abuse is extremely important. These critical 1 services should be available before, during and after incarceration. 2 3 FUNDING 4 5 The state shall reimburse counties for all locally administered state public and environmental health 6 programs. CCI opposes any local public and environmental health mandates without adequate 7 funding. CCI opposes shifting responsibility and liability from the private sector or other levels of 8 government to county government. CCI opposes any requirement for county financial support for 9 Medicaid services. CCI advocates a stable, long-term state funding source for statewide poison 10 control information services. CCI supports full state funding of the negative effects of the 2005 11 Deficit Reduction Act. 12 13 14 MEDICAID SERVICES 15 16 CCI supports improvements to the Medicaid delivery system and supports programs, policies and 17 laws that encourage full enrollment for Medicaid and CHP+. 18 19 CCI advocates counties continuing to have a significant role in the improvement and expansion of 20 Medicaid. 21 22 CCI advocates a local application site in each county at the option of local government. 23 24 CCI opposes any requirement for county financial support for Medicaid services. 25 26 CCI advocates 100 percent reimbursement from the state to each county to administer the food 27 stamp, Medicaid and other adult assistance programs. 28 29 HUMAN SERVICES 30 31 CCI advocates local administration of the social services system in order to maximize the flexibility 32 and responsiveness of the system to local needs, while ensuring efficient management and local 33 control. CCI opposes any effort that has as its objective centralization of human services. CCI 34 supports flexibility at the county level in providing benefits and services to best meet local needs 35 without shifting costs to counties and negatively impacting county government. 36 37 CCI supports county exercise of the choice of federal options to counties. CCI supports a clear, fair 38 and streamlined process for county waivers. 39 40 PERSONNEL MATTERS 41 42 CCI supports county control of personnel matters consistent with applicable federal law. CCI 43 supports immunity for social services personnel and social services delivery agencies and state 44 support of defense and liability. 45 46 HUMAN SERVICES FINANCING 47 48 CCI supports county input into a state budget management process to avoid supplemental 49 appropriations requests for foreseeable circumstances. CCI supports the continued mitigation of 50 excessive county tax burdens including but not limited to the contingency fund. CCI supports 51 changes in the maintenance of effort (MOE) requirements to allow flexible funding for social 52

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services programs and to minimize or avoid increasing and to more equitably distribute fiscal 1 responsibility of counties. 2 3 CCI advocates 100 percent reimbursement from the state to each county to administer the food 4 stamp, Medicaid and other adult assistance programs. 5 6 WORKFORCE INVESTMENT ACT IMPLEMENTATION 7 8 The federal “Workforce Investment Act of 1998” (WIA) requires increased local input in developing 9 the state plan for workforce development centers and allows increased local control over the 10 implementation of such plan. The purposes of WIA are to establish a central, coordinated delivery 11 of services at the local or regional level providing job training, adult education and literacy programs 12 and services through a more streamlined and flexible workforce development system. WIA allows 13 local governments increased responsibility for the administration of the workforce program. 14 15 Further, CCI recognizes and fully supports the major purpose and goal of WIA, which is to facilitate 16 and promote partnerships with the private sector and employers who play a primary role in the 17 successful implementation of WIA. 18 19 In order to achieve successful implementation of WIA in Colorado, CCI supports the following: 20 The local elected official (LEO) shall maintain a strong role in all phases and levels of WIA 21

implementation; 22 The elimination of the current fragmentation of programs and coordination of such programs at 23

the state and local level; 24 The establishment of a local delivery model with local flexibility in delivering and operating 25

employment and training services; and 26 Delivery of such services within regions developed by and at the option of local governments. 27

28 CCI supports a workforce system under WIA in Colorado that provides counties with the maximum 29 flexibility in meeting WIA requirements and assures decision-making at the local level. CCI 30 supports a workforce system allowing for the creation of local workforce boards to oversee the 31 network. 32 33 CCI supports local control throughout the establishment and implementation of WIA. 34 35 CHILD SUPPORT ENFORCEMENT 36 37 CCI supports effective child support enforcement practices and holding parents responsible for the 38 support of their minor children. 39 40 FOSTER CARE/OUT-OF-HOME PLACEMENT 41 42 The counties and other entities involved with out-of-home placements should have the option to 43 negotiate rates and resolve differences on placement decisions at the local level. 44 45 COLORADO CHILDREN’S CODE 46 47 CCI recognizes the primary responsibility for children lies with parents, and governmental 48 intervention is only appropriate in those circumstances where the physical, mental or emotional 49 health of the child or the safety of the community is threatened. CCI supports the rights of children 50 to reside in a safe environment and to be free from physical, mental and emotional harm, and that all 51 actions taken be in the best interests of the child. The ultimate decision-making authority under any 52

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administrative grievance process under the Children’s Code must rest with an entity or person(s) 1 under the control and direction of the county commissioners. 2 3 HARDSHIP EXEMPTIONS 4 5 CCI supports county input into developing fair and objective criteria for hardship exemptions for 6 needy families exceeding the 60-month lifetime limit for receipt of assistance set forth in federal law. 7 8 EARLY CHILDHOOD CARE AND EDUCATION 9 10 CCI recognizes the importance of excellent early childhood development for all the children of Colorado so 11 that they may grow up to be good citizens, good neighbors and successful participants in the economic life 12 of our communities. CCI also recognizes a role for the organization and its member counties in promoting 13 excellent early childhood development. 14 15 Excellent early childhood development addresses the needs of children for strong families, proper nutrition, 16 good health, and high quality early care and education. 17 18 Therefore CCI supports programs, policies and laws that support the healthy development of children, 19 including high quality child care, nutrition, health, and recognition of parents as a child’s primary teacher in 20 a secure loving environment, all in ways that are consistent with CCI’s commitment to local control and 21 decision-making in order to assure services, programs, costs, and policies fit the local needs of its member 22 counties. 23 24 CCI advocates for a safe, healthy, and quality childcare environment through consultation with local 25 child care providers by local public health nurses and environmental health specialists. 26 27 CCI recognizes the importance of early childhood care and education as a workforce issue and as an 28 important early development tool while respecting parental choice. CCI supports locally controlled, 29 quality, accessible and affordable childcare for all families. 30 31 CCI advocates local control of income eligibility requirements, parental co-pays, and provider 32 reimbursement rates. 33

34 VETERAN SERVICES 35 36 CCI supports sustainable funding for veteran services in Colorado. 37

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JUSTICE AND PUBLIC SAFETY 1 2 EMERGENCY MANAGEMENT 3 4 CCI SUPPORTS AND PROTECTS COUNTIES’ EMERGENCY MANAGEMENT ROLES 5 WHILE MAINTAINING THE EFFECTIVENESS OF OUR ALL-HAZARDS PUBLIC 6 SAFETY PREPAREDNESS PROGRAMS, AND EMERGENCY RESPONSES TO NATURAL 7 AND MANMADE DISASTERS. 8 9 FIRE PREVENTION AND CONTROL 10 11 CCI SUPPORTS ADDITIONAL FUNDING FOR PLANNING AND IMPLEMENTATION 12 OF PROGRAMS DESIGNED TO REDUCE THE THREAT OF WILDFIRE. DUE TO THE 13 GROWING NUMBER OF HOMES IN THE WILD LAND/URBAN INTERFACE, CCI 14 SUPPORTS COUNTY EFFORTS TO DEVELOP COMPREHENSIVE PLANS, BUILDING 15 CODES AND COMMUNITY PARTNERSHIPS THAT ADDRESS THE THREATS OF 16 WILDFIRE. 17 18 CCI SUPPORTS THE STATE EMERGENCY FIRE FUND AND THE SHARED EFFORTS 19 AT INCREASING THIS FUND. 20 21 CRIMINAL JUSTICE PLANNING AND COORDINATION 22 23 CCI SUPPORTS STRONG AND EFFICIENT RELATIONSHIPS BETWEEN ALL LEVELS 24 OF GOVERNMENT WITH RESPECT TO THE CRIMINAL JUSTICE SYSTEM AND 25 PUBLIC SAFETY SYSTEMS. CCI SUPPORTS THE RESPONSIBLE EXPENDITURE OF 26 TAXPAYER FUNDS IN ASSOCIATION WITH THE SAFE AND EFFECTIVE 27 OPERATIONS OF COLORADO’S COURTS AND PUBLIC SAFETY SYSTEMS. 28 29 LAW ENFORCEMENT AND CRIME 30 31 CCI SUPPORTS A CONTINUUM OF APPROACHES TO PREVENT VIOLENCE, 32 RANGING FROM INCREASED EFFORTS TO PUNISH CRIMINAL ACTIVITIES TO 33 DESIGNING EFFECTIVE PREVENTION AND EARLY INTERVENTION PROGRAMS 34 FOR YOUTH AND FAMILIES AT RISK. WHERE POSSIBLE, PROGRAMS SHOULD 35 REMAIN FLEXIBLE TO PERMIT DEVELOPMENT OF LOCALLY APPROPRIATE 36 SOLUTIONS. 37 38 COURTS 39 40 CCI SUPPORTS THE CONCEPT AND USE OF DRUG COURTS AND OTHER SPECIALTY 41 COURTS TO DIVERT MENTALLY ILL AND DRUG USING OFFENDERS AWAY FROM 42 THE TRADITIONAL COURT SYSTEM. CCI SUPPORTS ADEQUATE STATE FUNDING 43 FOR COURTHOUSE SECURITY THAT PAYS FOR THE NEEDS OF INDIVIDUAL 44 COUNTIES. 45 46 JUDICIAL REVIEW 47 48 CCI SUPPORTS COUNTIES’ ABILITY TO SECURE JUDICIAL REVIEW OF 49 GOVERNMENTAL AGENCY ACTIONS. 50 51 52 53

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MENTALLY ILL INMATES 1 2 CCI SUPPORTS THE GOAL THAT THE MENTALLY AND DEVELOPMENTALLY 3 DISABLED SHOULD NOT BE INCARCERATED IN LOCAL JAILS, AND THAT 4 PROGRAMS TO PROVIDE ALTERNATIVE INSTITUTIONAL OR COMMUNITY-BASED 5 RESIDENTIAL FACILITIES AND SERVICES SHOULD BE DEVELOPED. 6 7 CCI SUPPORTS FUNDING FOR SERVICES AND TREATMENT TO OFFENDERS WHO 8 ARE RELEASED FROM INCARCERATION INTO THE COMMUNITY. 9

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LAND USE AND NATURAL RESOURCES 1 2 LAND USE 3 4 CCI supports local control over the various uses of land and their impacts, while recognizing that 5 activities relative to growth, development, natural resources and environmental management, and 6 the public response to those activities, vary from one community to another. CCI will oppose any 7 efforts to supersede, override or preempt local land use authority. Land that has a reduced value by 8 virtue of being open space or having a conservation easement should be valued at no less than the 9 original value if condemned by another entity. 10 11 LAND USE TOOLS 12 13 CCI supports coordinating planning activities with state, federal and other local governments. CCI 14 supports mechanisms that mitigate the costs of growth and redevelopment. Impact fees, real estate 15 transfer taxes and other growth-financing tools should be available to counties. CCI also supports 16 the ability of counties to engage in transferable/ purchase development right programs, conservation 17 easements/leases, and fee simple acquisitions of open space properties. CCI supports reasonable 18 legislative action to provide better tools allowing counties to address the impacts from 35-acre or 19 larger parcels of land. 20 21 22 CCI supports any effort to maintain or strengthen the statutory powers granted to counties under 23 article 65.1 of title 24, Colorado Revised Statutes, referred to as “1041 powers.” CCI believes 1041 24 powers must be broadly and liberally construed to ensure maximum flexibility and authority for 25 counties. 26 27 CCI encourages member counties to participate in the creation of master plans and comprehensive 28 plans between municipalities and counties. CCI adamantly supports strong public involvement in the 29 development of comprehensive plans and master plans. CCI opposes requiring the submission of a 30 comprehensive plan or master plan to the electorate, which lacks legislative liability for enforcement. 31 CCI supports the current format of comprehensive plan or master plan approval. CCI will not 32 support the expansion of standing to allow unaffected parties to sue local governments beyond the 33 tests established by the United States and Colorado Supreme Courts for standing. 34 35 PRIVATE PROPERTY RIGHTS 36 37 CCI strongly supports preserving private property rights and government responsibility to provide 38 just compensation for the taking of private property as defined by the Colorado Constitution and 39 the United States Constitution. CCI recognizes the necessary balance between private property and 40 the public interest. 41 42 AFFORDABLE HOUSING 43 44 CCI holds that affordable housing is an important local issue, and the question of what constitutes 45 affordable housing will vary from jurisdiction to jurisdiction but CCI supports a broad range of 46 affordable housing opportunities. CCI supports giving counties the authority to enter into 47 agreements with property owners and developers for affordable housing as part of site-specific land 48 use approvals. 49 50 51 52 53

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CONSTRUCTION 1 2 Counties have a public safety responsibility to ensure code-abiding construction. CCI opposes 3 efforts to reduce county construction review and oversight authority. CCI supports the timely 4 adjudication, including appropriate penalties, of building code violations. CCI supports efforts to 5 enforce "green construction", recycling efforts, and wildlife and wildfire safe construction. 6 7 NATURAL RESOURCES 8 9 CCI supports adequate local and state regulation of extractive industries. CCI opposes any state or 10 federal efforts to preempt or limit local government regulatory authority over any extractive 11 industry. CCI encourages coordination among industry, local governments and state agencies 12 regarding current and future development. 13 14 It is crucial local governments have the funds necessary to address the impacts of the energy 15 industry and increase their economic viability. Therefore, CCI supports the continued allocation of 16 severance tax and federal mineral lease revenues to areas of the state that are socially and 17 economically impacted by the development, processing or energy conversion of minerals and 18 mineral fuels. CCI is strongly opposed to any diversion or taking of the local government severance 19 and or mineral lease tax funds by the Governor or General Assembly. 20 21 WATER 22 23 CCI recognizes water is one of Colorado's most precious natural resources, and an adequate, 24 dependable supply of water is crucial to all areas of the state. Therefore increased yields and 25 conservation measures are paramount to insuring the future of Colorado's water supply. The 26 enhancement/development of existing local water supplies in the pursuit of additional storage 27 should consider improvements to and rehabilitation of existing structures as well as the development 28 of new structures. The securing and improving of the storage of local water supplies is deemed 29 necessary and prudent for the protection and security of the state's water supply. These endeavors 30 should seek to benefit both the area of origin and the area of use. CCI supports Colorado's doctrine 31 of prior appropriation, necessary water conservation and reuse efforts, efforts to seek and maintain 32 state primacy and county control, the application of 1041 powers to water projects to address local 33 impacts, and protection of Colorado's water supply. Therefore, future water supply solutions, water 34 conservation and reuse measures should respect and not injure existing water rights. In addition 35 such measures and solutions shall seek to increase Colorado’s ability to capture and put to beneficial 36 use that water which the state is entitled to under existing and any future water compacts. 37 Furthermore, the State of Colorado should provide incentive based solutions and when possible 38 funding mechanisms to assist local governments in achieving these goals. As all Coloradoans have a 39 vested interest in solving Colorado's water resource/supply problems there must be a concerted 40 effort to educate all Coloradoans on the importance of water, the need to conserve and manage this 41 vital yet limited resource in order to provide for the needs of the future generations of Coloradoans. 42 CCI opposes attempts by the federal government to usurp the system of prior appropriation in the 43 issuance of necessary federal permits and opposes federally reserved water rights. 44 45 ENVIRONMENT 46 47 CCI supports appropriate efforts to preserve Colorado’s natural environment while managing its 48 resources in a responsible manner. CCI encourages state and federal mitigation of the impacts and 49 burdens imposed upon local governments when forced to implement unfunded environmental 50 mandates. CCI supports efforts to seek state and local primacy when appropriate. 51 52

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CCI supports the establishment of appropriate health-related standards for emissions and discharges 1 based on sound scientific data and the use of risk/cost-benefit and economic impact analyses. In 2 regards to Wetlands, CCI believes the public-at-large, not individual property owners, must bear the 3 burden to protect vital wetlands. CCI urges Congress and the states to review practices, statutes and 4 policies in order to protect and preserve agricultural interests. 5 6 CCI opposes any designation of wild and scenic rivers or any designation in Colorado where the 7 impacted counties have not participated in the designation, or where the designation would conflict 8 with local land use policies. 9 10 11 CCI supports responsible county authority to mitigate and manage impacts from solid and 12 hazardous waste facilities and will oppose efforts to preempt or limit local authority. 13 14 CCI supports voluntary conservation measures that enhances or protects local community values 15 and public goals and that are consistent with applicable laws and regulations. 16

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PUBLIC LANDS 1 2 Federal and state public lands have tremendous impacts on county government, both positive and 3 negative. CCI supports a strong working relationship among state, federal and local governments to 4 coordinate planning functions and implement various policies that minimize burdens on local 5 governments and individual private property rights. CCI supports experimentation initiatives in 6 federal land management that are supported by the affected local governments. 7 8 LOCAL GOVERNMENT COMPENSATION 9 10 CCI supports full Congressional appropriation of Payment-In-Lieu-of-Taxes (PILT) to compensate 11 counties for the costs associated with the presence of federal tax-exempt lands. CCI also supports 12 all efforts to compensate counties for lost property tax revenue from tax-exempt lands. Consistent 13 with C.R.S 30-25-301 et seq, compensation must equal the estimated assessment of ad valorem taxes 14 on land withdrawn from county tax rolls for the purposes of wildlife conservation and public 15 recreation. CCI maintains that control of the allocation of U.S. Forest Service moneys pursuant to 16 C.R.S. 30-29-101(3) must remain solely with the boards of county commissioners. CCI supports 17 maximizing and fully appropriating federal payments and taxes due to Colorado counties related to 18 the presence of federal property, including but not limited to federal mineral lease, secure rural 19 schools, and forest service payments and opposes mandatory linkages among federal payment 20 programs that reduce county receipts. 21 22 LAND MANAGEMENT 23 24 State and federal land management must minimize the negative impacts from wildfire, fuel loads, 25 road maintenance, search and rescue efforts, law enforcement, wildlife, predators, pests, noxious 26 weeds, and undesirable plants. CCI recognizes that wildfires and forest insect infestations may be 27 indications of forest and range health problems. CCI encourages the state and federal governments 28 to provide sufficient funding to alleviate the burden from those negative impacts on local 29 governments. CCI encourages public land managers to develop and implement vegetation 30 management programs that create and maintain healthy, diverse wildland communities attractive for 31 recreation use and scenic quality; provide habitat for a wide variety of wildlife species; reduce fuel 32 loads; and assure a steady supply of water, forage and wood products for the use and benefit of 33 society. All policies and plans for public lands must be consistent with affected counties’ policies. 34 35 ENDANGERED SPECIES 36 37 CCI supports the recovery and preservation of endangered species, and also supports efforts to 38 amend the Endangered Species Act in order to improve flexibility under the act. CCI urges 39 consideration of sound-science, cost-benefit and economic impact analyses and recovery plans when 40 proposing species for listing and furthermore encourages balancing the impact of the Endangered 41 Species Act with that of other legislation. CCI supports proactive and creative efforts to restore or 42 reintroduce endangered species considering all potential impacts and subject to local government 43 involvement and approval. 44 45

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SPECIAL LAND DESIGNATIONS 1 2 CCI supports multiple uses on all federal and state public lands. The efficient administration, 3 conservation and development of Colorado's natural resources must be balanced with protection of 4 the environment and consideration of local needs. CCI supports special land designations (including 5 Wilderness) that are consistent with land use policies within the counties and are supported by the 6 county within which the designation is proposed. CCI strongly encourages the Colorado 7 congressional delegation to base future wilderness legislation with county input. CCI supports 8 strong local involvement and representation on the Multiple Resource Advisory Councils and CCI 9 will act upon any public land reforms. 10 11 STATE LAND BOARD 12 13 The implementation of the changes to Article IX, Sections 3, 9 and 10 of the state constitution 14 (1996’s Amendment 16) must be equitable to counties, and CCI will ensure the Stewardship Trust 15 process considers local government concerns regarding nominated lands. CCI urges the State Land 16 Board to adopt criteria to ensure consistent treatment of nominated lands. CCI believes the State 17 Land Board must consider county input as to the long-term and short-term uses of their lands. 18 19 GREAT OUTDOORS COLORADO 20 21 CCI supports the objectives of Great Outdoors Colorado (GOCO) and county involvement in 22 guiding GOCO towards wise investments in Colorado that fulfill the public’s trust. GOCO should 23 provide technical assistance to counties for development of projects eligible for GOCO funds, such 24 as parks and related outdoor facilities, including environmental education facilities and county 25 fairgrounds. CCI supports Section 10 of the GOCO amendment requiring PILT payments to 26 counties. CCI encourages distribution of lottery proceeds to counties consistent with article XXVII 27 of the Colorado Constitution and opposes diversions of lottery funds to other state programs. 28 29 RS 2477 30 31 CCI urges the Department of Interior agencies to expediently implement secretarial direction on 32 processing RS 2477 claims and further urges USDA agencies to adopt a similar policy. CCI also 33 supports congressional legislation and/or Administration adoption of a new policy regarding 34 RS2477 rights of way that is uniform for all and allows federal land managing agencies the ability to 35 recognize these rights-of-way. CCI also urges Congress and the Administration to consult with local 36 officials in the development of a new policy and/or legislation. 37 38 WATER 39 40 CCI supports balancing traditional consumptive needs and nonconsumptive beneficial uses for 41 environmental needs and recreational economics. CCI recognizes water is one of Colorado’s most 42 precious natural resources, and an adequate, dependable supply of water is crucial to all areas of the 43 state. CCI supports Colorado’s doctrine of prior appropriation, necessary water conservation and 44 reuse efforts, efforts to seek and maintain state primacy and county control, the application of 1041 45 powers to water projects to address local impacts, and protection of Colorado’s water resources, 46 while avoiding additional future out of state compact calls. CCI opposes attempts by the federal 47 government to usurp the system of prior appropriation in the issuance of necessary federal permits 48 and opposes federally reserved water rights. CCI opposes any designation of Wild and Scenic Rivers 49 or any designation in Colorado where the impacted counties have not participated in the designation 50 or where the designation would conflict with local land use policies or hinder full utilization of the 51 river system. CCI supports developing and constructing cost-effective, environmentally sound water 52

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storage or hydroelectric projects consistent with local land use policies in order to utilize Colorado’s 1 full river system entitlement, and meet state and national energy and growth needs. 2 3 CCI PUBLIC LANDS FUND 4 5 CCI encourages Colorado’s public lands counties to continue supporting CCI’s Public Lands 6 Steering Committee in order to ensure adequate representation on federal and state public land 7 legislation or regulatory efforts. 8 9

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TAXATION AND FINANCE 1 2 TAX POLICY 3 4 CCI supports a comprehensive review and restructure of policies on collecting and distributing tax 5 revenues, as well as tax surpluses. We support intergovernmental cooperation and will work to 6 implement such collaboration. 7 8 CCI believes tax policy reform should ensure that the powers granted to counties and the funding 9 mechanisms available are sufficient to address county responsibilities. Tax policy reform should 10 create a fair and equitable distribution of the property tax burden among all property. County 11 resources should be broadened and diversified to eliminate regressivity and lessen the reliance on 12 property taxation. CCI supports examination of all legislative alternatives to ensure local 13 government has adequate authority to meet its statutory responsibilities and the expectations of 14 residents. CCI supports allowing counties flexibility in the use and deposit of county revenues. CCI 15 believes counties should be involved in reviewing any proposal concerning the use of surplus tax 16 revenues to ensure that the needs in various areas of the state are considered. 17 18 TAX INCREMENT FINANCING 19 20 CCI supports giving boards of county commissioners the authority: (1) to approve the use and the 21 amount of the county portion of revenues designated in a proposed urban renewal plan for tax 22 increment financing; and (2) to establish mechanisms to ensure that a proposed urban renewal 23 project meets the current statutory requirement of ameliorating blight or slum conditions. CCI 24 supports giving similar authority to the state with respect to state revenue impacts and a project’s 25 statutory compliance. 26 27 PROPERTY TAX-FUNDED PROGRAMS 28 29 In order to preserve counties’ ability to fulfill their statutory duties, CCI supports requiring the state 30 to reimburse local governments and districts for any loss in property tax revenues caused by 31 constitutional or statutory changes. CCI supports allowing counties to reduce funding for or 32 eliminate programs neither controlled nor generated at the county level and funded by county tax 33 revenues. 34 35 ASSESSMENT ISSUES 36 37 CCI supports clear and consistent standards for assessors to follow in classification and valuation of 38 property. CCI also supports changes in the classification of agricultural real property for property 39 tax purposes that will prevent abuses of the classification and permit agricultural classification for 40 only bonafide agricultural operations. CCI supports fair and equitable assessment of state valued 41 properties. 42 43 As a general matter, CCI supports requiring petitioners/taxpayers to exhaust their local remedies 44 before they appeal a decision to the Board of Assessment Appeals (BAA), requiring the evidence 45 considered at a BAA hearing be the same as that presented at the local hearing, and that evidence 46 based on mass appraisal valuation practices be sufficient and acceptable regarding valuation of 47 residential properties. CCI further supports amendments to the existing BAA appeals process 48 requiring appropriate fees and disclosures. 49 50 51 52 53

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STATE FUNDS/TABOR 1 2 CCI supports allowing counties to treat all funds transferred from another governmental entity, as 3 “pass through” funds, not subject to the revenue and spending limits established under article X, 4 section 20 of the Colorado Constitution. CCI supports a constitutional amendment enabling a 5 county to institute a real estate transfer tax upon an affirmative vote of local residents. 6 7 PROSECUTION, COURT FACILITIES AND SECURITY COSTS 8 9 CCI supports a more reasonable and equitable funding arrangement for judicial functions mandated 10 to counties, including the district attorney’s office and court-related facilities and security costs. 11 12 INMATE HOUSING COSTS 13 14 CCI supports timely and adequate reimbursement for housing state inmates in county facilities. CCI 15 also supports state action to alleviate the existing backlog of state inmates in county facilities. 16 17 FINANCING GROWTH 18 19 CCI supports allowing counties to meet the need for additional government services required by 20 growth through mechanisms that mitigate the costs of growth, including fair and equitable impact 21 fees and real estate transfer taxes. CCI also supports transferable/purchase development right 22 programs and the use of conservation easements/leases. 23 24 SEVERANCE TAX/MINERAL LEASE FUNDS 25 26 It is crucial local governments have the funds necessary to address the impacts of the energy 27 industry and increase their economic viability. Therefore, CCI supports the continued allocation of 28 severance tax and federal mineral lease revenues to areas of the state that are socially and 29 economically impacted by the development, processing or energy conversion of minerals and 30 mineral fuels. CCI is strongly opposed to any diversion or taking of the local government severance 31 and or mineral lease tax funds by the Governor or General Assembly. 32 33 LIMITED GAMING 34 35 CCI supports Colorado's constitutional provisions on limited gaming. Decisions by the Limited 36 Gaming Control Commission should continue to provide appropriate and adequate support for 37 limited gaming communities and contiguous communities to mitigate the direct impacts on those 38 communities created by the growth and development of the gaming industry. 39 40 CCI is strongly opposed to diversion of local gaming revenue by the Governor or General 41 Assembly. 42

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TOURISM, RESORTS AND ECONOMIC DEVELOPMENT 1 2

TOURISM 3 4 County officials recognize that tourism plays an important role in the economies of counties around 5 the state. County officials are sensitive to the fact that tourism in Colorado takes many forms, 6 including winter recreation in the mountain resort communities, year-round recreation in the state’s 7 parks, waters, and historic and natural areas; conference and convention business; attendance at fairs 8 and trade shows; visual and performing arts activities; tourism in gaming towns; and attendance at 9 the wide variety of athletic and sporting events that take place throughout Colorado. CCI believes 10 that these diverse recreation and tourism opportunities set Colorado apart from other states. The 11 issues and needs associated with each kind of tourism encompass numerous topics, including tax 12 policy, land use, immigration, affordable housing, and transportation. Furthermore, the issues of 13 one type of tourism are not always common to all others. 14 15 CCI believes there should be a permanent, dedicated revenue source for state tourism promotion. 16 17 ECONOMIC DEVELOPMENT 18 19 In addition to its role as a primary economic driver, commissioners recognize that tourism and 20 recreational opportunities also contribute to business relocation decisions and other economic 21 development opportunities. 22 23 CCI supports programs assisting communities with economic development and sustainable 24 economies. Enterprise zones, business incentives and credits, development grants and programs, 25 appropriately trained employees, economic development councils and appropriate educational 26 opportunities are crucial to the success of county economies. 27 28 CCI supports tourism-related economic development. Sound approaches to tourism can lead to job 29 growth, increased revenues and economic diversification. Small scale (cottage) industries offer an 30 economic base to small resort/tourist communities. Impacts from tourist related development must 31 be addressed at the time of development to prevent unforeseen and unacceptable costs to the local 32 taxpayers. 33 34 Tourism flourishes in attractive communities. CCI supports efforts that respect county authority 35 while fostering community beautification and enhancement. Protection of the natural, scenic, 36 cultural, educational, and historical environments is key to the success of a tourist/resort 37 community. 38 39 HOUSING AND COMMUNITY DEVELOPMENT 40 41 Tourism and resort oriented counties often offer low paying jobs and a high cost of living. A stable 42 and sustainable community depends on the financial ability of those who support, volunteer, study, 43 recreate, or work in the community to live in that community. Recognizing this, CCI supports 44 community-backed affordable housing efforts. CCI supports efforts to attain stable local, state, and 45 federal funding and endorses private sector involvement, wherever possible, in cooperation with 46 federal, state, and local agencies. CCI also supports the appointment of county commissioners to 47 housing related boards in Colorado, including the Colorado Housing Board, the Colorado Housing 48 and Finance Authority Board and the Private Activity Bond Allocation Committee. 49 50

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The impacts on a resort community for housing, transportation, road maintenance, social services, 1 health and human services, emergency services (police, sheriff, ambulance, fire, hospital emergency, 2 etc.) often rest in communities and jurisdictions outside the resort community itself. Therefore, CCI 3 supports attempts to develop revenue sharing programs that help to mitigate the impacts of 4 resort/tourism activities. 5 6 TRANSIT 7 8 Public transportation for visitors and guests in a tourist/resort community provides an essential 9 service to those guests while protecting the qualities of life those visitors are seeking: clean air; quiet, 10 traffic free environment; pedestrian friendly atmosphere; and accessibility. 11 12 CCI recognizes trails as recreational needs, commuter routes and a component of community transit 13 needs. 14 15 Public transit is essential for those communities that depend on a transient or non-local work force. 16 CCI supports legislation and programs that address and financially support efforts to provide 17 affordable, safe and efficient public transportation in tourist/resort communities. 18 19 CCI supports development of a high speed rail network within Colorado and designation of a rocky 20 mountain high speed rail corridor. 21 22 RECREATION 23 24 CCI endorses recreational uses consistent with community goals and recognizes the important role 25 county government has in promoting and supporting recreational activities within their 26 communities. CCI believes that recreational activities and their supportive services should receive 27 adequate public funding. 28 29 CCI supports sustainable recreation. Encouraging a balanced approach, CCI supports recreational 30 opportunities that consider a community's economy and environment. Resources should be 31 sufficient to support recreational activities while maintaining the integrity of natural processes. CCI 32 supports projects and programs that further sustainable recreation while protecting the environment 33 on which the economy depends (fishing, hunting, boating, hiking, biking, off-road vehicles, etc.). 34 35 WORK FORCE 36 37 CCI recognizes the challenge counties face regarding their commitment to a stable, successful, yet 38 often temporary work force; including demands on housing, transportation, social services, 39 education, child care, law enforcement, emergency services and health and human services. CCI 40 supports mechanisms and programs that support or mitigate the costs related to these impacts. 41 42 Counties impacted by the enforcement of federal and state immigration laws need federal and state 43 support and should be reimbursed for their local law enforcement expenditures. CCI supports state 44 and federal initiatives that clarify immigration issues and provide solutions to today's immigration 45 challenges. 46 47 LIMITED GAMING 48 49 CCI supports Colorado's constitutional provisions on limited gaming. Decisions by the Limited 50 Gaming Control Commission should continue to provide appropriate and adequate support for 51 limited gaming communities and contiguous communities to mitigate the direct impacts on those 52 communities created by the growth and development of the gaming industry. 53

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1 FEDERAL LANDS 2 3 Recognizing that Colorado’s federal lands provide the amenities that support tourist/resort 4 communities as back country, wilderness or ski areas, CCI supports legislation and appropriation of 5 funds to compensate those communities for the loss of those lands on the county’s tax rolls. CCI 6 supports maximizing and fully appropriating federal payments and taxes due to Colorado counties 7 related to the presence of federal property. CCI supports adequate and appropriate payment in lieu 8 of taxes to those impacted communities. CCI supports programs that provide assistance to those 9 communities that exist at the edge of the public lands, that must accommodate the visitors drawn to 10 that public land, but that may not directly benefit from PILT or other already designated funds. In 11 counties where the presence of federal lands (whether BLM, U.S. Forest Service, national park, 12 wilderness, or otherwise) enhance the opportunity for tourism and recreation, CCI supports federal 13 agencies scoping and processing local government requirements for creation or enhancements of 14 recreational amenities. Land swaps involving federal lands should be made within the affected 15 county where feasible and should always provide adequate compensation of the affected entities. 16 Federal agencies should provide adequate funding for the operation and management of federal 17 lands so the burden does not fall to communities. 18

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TRANSPORTATION AND TELECOMMUNICATIONS 1 2

3 FEDERAL ROLE 4 5 CCI believes the federal Highway Trust Fund should provide funds solely for highway programs 6 authorized in federal highway legislation and not other non-highway purposes. In addition, CCI 7 believes federal highway funding should not be contingent on state and/or local compliance with 8 federal mandates. CCI supports giving counties more latitude in undertaking and concluding “off-9 system” road projects and giving the state and counties more flexibility in determining 10 transportation solutions and funding categories, whether transit or highways. CCI believes federal 11 review and approval authority should be limited to annual state plans and programs and not extend 12 to individual projects. CCI further supports the passage of federal highway legislation that is in 13 keeping with these principles. CCI supports the state transportation commission allocating the 14 maximum allowable funds for “off system” bridges from the federal aid system. 15 16 STATE ROLE 17 18 CCI supports county input into the development of state transportation plans and programs 19 through the use of transportation planning regions (TPRs) or similar mechanisms. CCI believes 20 TPRs should have access to state and federal planning dollars. CCI supports development of 21 transportation recommendations and allocation of state transportation funds by the state 22 transportation commission in a manner balancing both urban and rural needs. CCI recognizes that 23 Colorado’s existing transportation infrastructure is insufficient and encourages the state to create 24 additional funding and make adequate provisions for an expanded and improved transportation 25 network. CCI supports the re-creation of the state bridge fund. 26 27 CCI recognizes that tolling may be an appropriate method of meeting transportation revenue needs 28 in some circumstances; however, CCI is concerned about the impacts of tolling and supports 29 requiring consultation with affected local entities prior to authorizing tolls on highways, bridges, 30 tunnels, or other transportation facilities. CCI opposes tolling of any existing facility when there is 31 no reasonable alternative route available to the traveling public. CCI supports the faithful 32 implementation of 2005’s Referendum C, which stipulates that a portion of the additional state 33 revenue is to be used for “roads, bridges, and other strategic transportation projects.” CCI also 34 supports the implementation of appropriate accountability mechanisms to assure that voter and 35 statutory intent are honored. 36 37 LOCAL ROLE 38 39 CCI believes counties are a proper forum for transportation planning. All boards of county 40 commissioners should have an enhanced role in prioritizing regional and statewide projects in their 41 area. In addition, CCI supports opportunities for counties to design their own transportation 42 finance mechanisms to respond to local and regional transportation needs. 43 44 REVENUE ENHANCEMENTS 45 46 CCI supports the use of moneys in the Highway Users Tax Fund (HUTF) solely for construction, 47 maintenance and supervision of the highway system, as provided in the state constitution, and the 48 crediting of sales and use taxes attributable to motor vehicles and related items to the HUTF. CCI 49 supports efforts to generate increased transportation revenue to address state and local 50 transportation infrastructure needs – including a referred ballot measure to increase transportation 51 revenues – provided that any new revenues generated are shared among state, county and municipal 52 governments in the same proportions as current HUTF payments. 53

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1 CCI supports an equitable HUTF allocation formula and restrictions on the use of “off the top” 2 diversions. CCI is committed to ensuring local shareback is provided for transportation projects 3 from all transportation revenue sources and opposes funding mechanisms which eliminate or reduce 4 local shareback for transportation projects. 5 6 CCI believes state funding for transportation should be limited to projects identified through the 7 statewide transportation planning process. CCI supports giving the Regional Transportation District 8 and Regional Transportation Authorities flexibility to develop revenue enhancements to meet the 9 demands of their residents. CCI also supports maximum local flexibility in administering funds 10 available for local transportation projects. 11 12 MULTI-MODAL TRANSPORTATION 13 14 CCI supports the development and financing of multi-modal transportation plans and ensuring the 15 protection and improvement of air and water quality as vital components of such plans. CCI 16 recognizes trails as recreational needs, commuter routes and a component of community transit 17 needs. Public transit is essential for those communities that depend on a transient or non-local work 18 force. CCI supports legislation and programs that address and financially support efforts to provide 19 affordable, safe and efficient public transportation in tourist/resort communities. 20 21 CCI supports development of a high speed rail network within Colorado and designation of a rocky 22 mountain high speed rail corridor. 23 24 AIRPORT DEVELOPMENT 25 26 CCI supports full recognition of the ability of counties to plan and coordinate aviation with other 27 modes of transportation and to control land use for airport development and operation. CCI also 28 supports increasing the federal contribution amount on airport development projects. CCI believes 29 revenues from taxes on aviation fuel should be used exclusively for aviation-related expenditures and 30 supports the concept of returning 65 percent of fuel tax proceeds to the airport that generated them. 31 CCI believes the state should better coordinate state and federal funds provided to counties with 32 airports. CCI supports allowing the Division of Aeronautics to bid and negotiate contracts for 33 maintenance, construction and purchasing on behalf of local airports. 34 35 RAILROADS 36 37 CCI believes counties should be given the authority and ability to protect rail lines and rights-of-way 38 important to county needs. CCI also believes counties should be given the authority and ability to 39 install crossings that address county needs. In addition, CCI supports continuation of federal funds 40 to be used for rail crossing protection improvements. CCI encourages the Colorado Department of 41 Transportation and the Public Utilities Commission to work together to provide criteria for 42 identifying hazardous rail crossings. CCI supports rail maintenance, expansion or relocation with 43 county input and involvement. 44 45 TELECOMMUNICATIONS 46 47 CCI acknowledges that not all areas of the state benefit from the same level of telecommunications 48 competition and broadband services. Further, county governments are major consumers of 49 telecommunications and broadband services, and changes in rates and regulations should balance 50 the impact on county taxpayers and the benefits of deregulation. Reform of telecommunications 51 policy should reflect a partnership of federal, state and local government. CCI believes counties 52 should be involved in the planning and development of telecommunications services, to enhance 53

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economic, health care, and educational opportunities, as well as county operations and service 1 delivery. CCI also believes public subsidy of separate telecommunications systems for government, 2 education, libraries and health care should be discouraged when it will have a detrimental impact on 3 the competitive marketplace. In many areas of the state, public-private partnerships are a critical 4 component in the local provision of telecommunication and broadband infrastructure, and any 5 reforms to telecommunications policy need to recognize and encourage these partnerships. 6 7 RIGHTS-OF-WAY 8 9 When permission for use has been granted by a county, CCI supports the ability to obtain full cost 10 recovery for the use of public rights-of-way by the private sector. Counties should be authorized to 11 assess a fee for the commercial use of a county road right-of-way. Further, counties should be able 12 to ensure transportation is not disrupted and the useful life of the right-of-way is not diminished. 13 14 UNIVERSAL ACCESS 15 16 CCI supports the adoption of telecommunications policy that ensures equitable access to 17 telecommunications services and broadband services in both urban and rural areas, but does not 18 unduly burden any single segment of the telecommunications market. CCI supports the 19 development of federal resources and other mechanisms to assist providing telecommunications and 20 broadband services, including data, video and voice transmission, to all areas. Universal service 21 funds should be paid into by all communication service providers and should be used for the 22 purpose of establishing and/or enhancing service in unserved and underserved areas of the state 23 where costs are higher. CCI supports using these funds in a transparent manner. 24 25 PREEMPTION 26 27 CCI opposes federal or state preemption of local taxing authority as applied to sales, services, and 28 other transactions that make use of telecommunications services, software or hardware. CCI also 29 opposes federal or state preemption of local land use authority as applied to the siting of towers, 30 antennae or other receivers or transmitters necessary for the provision of telecommunications 31 services. 32 33 34 35 36

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cci steering committee meetings friday, september 12, 2014 9...

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