Government and Politics
March 1, 2023
From: Douglas County GovernmentHELP ON A MISSION WITH HEART
Unsheltered homelessness down 46% since 2022
Today, there are fewer people experiencing homelessness in Douglas County than there were in 2022. Why? Because every morning three expert resource navigators and three law enforcement officers wake up on a mission.
Preliminary Point in Time data indicates the number of people living unsheltered in Douglas County is down 46%. Douglas County Commissioner Abe Laydon and Sheriff Darren Weekly attribute this reduction to the efforts of HEART, a new program focused on helping people experiencing homelessness in Douglas County.
Live Town Hall Tuesday, Feb. 28. Hear from all agencies that have a role on the West Frontage Road, including Douglas County, CDOT, the Town of Castle Rock, the Douglas County Sheriff’s Office, Colorado State Patrol and Castle Rock Fire and Rescue. Info to join.
Have your household hazardous waste picked up. If you have hazardous waste from a painting project, old oil from your car’s maintenance, or other waste from your recent DIY project, Douglas County Health Department can help you safely dispose of it. Read More.
Firefighting funds awarded to rural fire districts
Douglas County's five rural fire protection districts were recognized by the Board of Douglas County Commissioners with vital firefighting funds to help them manage fires, medical emergencies, and rescue operations specifically in the Pike National Forest area. Read More.
Working together on Water
Douglas County explores creation of water commission. There is no higher priority for your Douglas County Commissioners than partnering with our water providers to secure a dependable and sustainable water supply. This has been our focus for more than a decade to ensure there's water today and for generations to come. Consistent with our reputation, strategically investing in a dependable water supply and water quality protects property values, jobs, the economy and the overall quality of life for our citizens.
Douglas County this month sent a letter to all area water providers to invite their engagement in a countywide water commission that will create a comprehensive water plan, consistent with citizen survey data input from 2006 and 2010. The hope is that this plan will be informed by a wide array of community members to identify strategic policies addressing water infrastructure and storage, supply acquisition, reclamation and conservation practices.
Stay updated Sign up for email updates. Choose "Water and Wastewater."
Commissioners are working for YOU in Washington
Your community priorities are being heard in Washington. Each year, the Board of Douglas County Commissioners attends the National Association of Counties' Legislative Conference, which brings together nearly 2,000 elected and appointed county officials to focus on federal policy issues that impact our local communities. Here is one highlight from each Commissioner:
Commissioner Abe Laydon spoke with federal representatives about the delays experienced in obtaining background checks from the FBI with a goal of reducing lag time to prevent human trafficking.
Commissioner George Teal listened to federal Department of Transportation experts discuss the federal grant process with a goal of applying for funding for important transportation projects, including the Crystal Valley Interchange.
Commissioner Lora Thomas attended steering committee meetings and met with the members of Colorado's federal delegation with a goal of working together on issues that improve the lives and living conditions for our residents.
Learn more about NACo.
You know the danger. The County can help you reduce the risk. In new cost-sharing program, Douglas County will match your wildfire mitigation efforts. Learn more and apply.
New signal for Daniel's Park Road and US 85
Douglas County, CDOT enter agreement. The Colorado Department of Transportation is expected to begin construction this year on a new signal with funding from Douglas County. Read More.