Teller County votes on controversial term limit changes

In a recent meeting, the Teller County Board of Commissioners discussed two resolutions aimed at eliminating term limits for the positions of county coroner and county surveyor. The resolutions, which will be presented to voters in a November 2024 election, stem from concerns about the decreasing number of qualified candidates for these critical roles in small counties across Colorado.

Commissioner Campbell emphasized that neither the current coroner nor the surveyor requested these changes, but rather, the resolutions address a broader issue affecting small counties statewide. He noted that the specialized training required for these positions is becoming increasingly rare, leading to a potential shortage of candidates when term limits take effect. The commissioners expressed a preference for allowing voters to decide on these matters rather than having appointments made by a small board.

The resolutions highlight the unique qualifications necessary for both roles, with the coroner responsible for determining the cause of death and the surveyor overseeing land-related matters. The board acknowledged that the state legislature has been adding more certification requirements for coroners, which could further complicate the recruitment of qualified individuals.

Both resolutions were approved unanimously, with the understanding that they do not affect current office holders or other elected positions in the county. The proposed ballot questions will ask voters whether they wish to eliminate the two-term limit for both the coroner and surveyor, allowing those who have obtained the necessary qualifications to serve beyond the current restrictions. The board aims to ensure that qualified candidates can continue to serve the community effectively, addressing the pressing need for skilled professionals in these essential roles.