Commissioners discussed recent disaster-related expenses and an accounting question about spending from funds that had not been appropriated for 2025. Following the discussion, the board directed staff to prepare a public budget hearing and possible supplemental appropriation to reconcile those expenses and to clarify the county’s approach for emergency spending going forward.

Background: Commissioners raised concerns after payments for disaster-response vendors appeared to be charged to funds that had zero appropriations in the 2025 adopted budget. County legal staff cited state statutes and Department of Local Affairs (DOLA) guidance that, in some cases, require a budget hearing and a formal resolution or ordinance to authorize spending from previously unappropriated funds, especially for significant expenditures. County staff pointed to existing emergency authorities and internal resolutions that give the county manager and sheriff some authority to act during declared emergencies; commissioners sought clarity on when a formal budget hearing is required.

Board action and direction: Commissioners unanimously directed staff to gather the DOLA budget‑law guidance and relevant county resolutions and to publish a public budget hearing notice (proposed date referenced) so the board can consider supplemental appropriations or ledger transfers to reflect the disaster payments. Staff were asked to provide a written explanation of the statutes and the draft budget amendment language before the hearing. Commissioners also discussed the possibility of drawing temporary funds from road-and-bridge contingency and returning them later through transfers and a year‑end reconciliation.

Why it matters: Timely payment for emergency services (search-and-rescue, equipment, contractors) can be time sensitive; however, officials want to ensure compliance with Colorado statutes on appropriations and avoid personal or bond liability for officials who sign warrants for unappropriated expenditures.

Next steps: County staff will circulate DOLA guidance, draft amendment materials and proposed public‑hearing language; the board asked to review and schedule a hearing to act on supplemental appropriations and transfers.