Commissioners approve roof repair for Leon Carlitz Judicial Center emergency meeting

Colfax County officials convened an emergency meeting on June 26, 2025, to address urgent repairs needed at the Leon Carlitz Judicial Center, located at 1413 South Second Street. The primary focus was on the deteriorating roof and electrical issues that have been exacerbated by recent weather events.

During the meeting, the county's vice chair, Mary Lou Kern, expressed her preference for a comprehensive repair but acknowledged the financial constraints facing the county. She proposed a phased approach, suggesting that the county initially undertake necessary repairs to buy time while exploring additional funding options, such as capital outlay funding or potential contributions from the court system.

Commissioner Trujillo, however, advocated for a complete roof replacement, citing concerns about the reliability of temporary fixes and the potential for further damage. He emphasized the need to avoid relying on uncertain funding sources and expressed frustration over past unsuccessful attempts to secure financial assistance.

The discussion included details about the repair options presented by J3 Systems, a contractor on the state contract. The commissioners reviewed a quote that outlined two options: a full immediate repair costing approximately $152,250 plus gross receipts tax (GRT) or a phased approach starting with a $45,050 repair that would later credit towards the total replacement cost.

Ultimately, the commissioners voted to proceed with the initial repair option, allowing for immediate action to mitigate further damage while keeping the door open for future funding opportunities. The motion passed with a majority vote, despite Commissioner Trujillo's dissent.

In addition to the roof repairs, the meeting also addressed a budget adjustment resolution to facilitate the necessary funding for the repairs. The commissioners approved the resolution, ensuring that the county could issue a purchase order promptly to begin the work.

The urgency of the meeting was underscored by the need to act quickly to prevent further damage to the courthouse, with officials noting that they had provided more than 24 hours' notice for the emergency session. A letter will be sent to the attorney general's office to explain the circumstances surrounding the emergency meeting.

As Colfax County moves forward with these repairs, officials remain focused on securing additional funding to address the long-term needs of the judicial center, ensuring that the facility remains safe and functional for the community it serves.