Counties unite to challenge Colorado over severance tax funds

In a recent government meeting, officials discussed significant legal actions concerning the state severance tax fund, which is allocated to local governments. Mesa County is set to file a lawsuit against the state of Colorado, alleging that the state is unlawfully diverting funds that were previously granted to counties by statute. This lawsuit is expected to be filed around August 5 or 6, and several other counties in Colorado have expressed their intention to join Mesa County in this legal challenge.

During the meeting, a motion was made and unanimously approved for the board to join Mesa County in the lawsuit, signaling a collective stance against the state's actions regarding the severance tax fund. The board's decision reflects growing concerns among local governments about the impact of state funding decisions on their budgets and services.

Following this discussion, the board entered another executive session to receive legal advice related to the Lewis Cemetery District, indicating ongoing legal matters that require careful consideration. The meeting underscored the importance of local governance and the collaborative efforts of counties to protect their financial interests against state-level decisions.