Rio Blanco commissioners approve limited-impact review to allow second residence on 757-acre parcel west of Meeker

The Rio Blanco County Board of County Commissioners on Sept. 9 approved Resolution 2025-26, authorizing a limited-impact review (PLIR0002-25) that allows an additional dwelling unit on a 757-acre parcel west of Meeker owned by Tracy and Joshua Olmstead. The vote to approve the resolution was unanimous.

County planning staff told commissioners the applicants are seeking a building permit to construct a new residence and that the county’s land-use rules require a limited-impact review for any additional dwelling unit on large parcels. Planning staff said the application was circulated for referral comments and that none were received. “To my knowledge, that will make the second home. Yes. There is one dilapidated building on there,” planning staff said, adding the dilapidated structure is not considered a residence for purposes of the review.

Staff said the proposal complies with the county master plan and land-use regulations and recommended approval of PLIR0002-25 with no conditions. Commissioners moved and seconded the resolution; the clerk called the roll. Commissioners O’Harend, Overton and Richfield voted “aye.” The motion carried and the board adjourned at 9:08 a.m.

The planning staff presentation noted that a building permit is being processed separately and will be contingent on the outcome of the limited-impact review. No other conditions, mitigation measures or referral comments were recorded in the public record during the meeting.

The action recorded on the agenda as Resolution 2025-26 approves the Olmstead Limited Impact Review, PLIR0002-25. The record does not specify any additional permit conditions, appeal rights discussed at the meeting, or third-party objections.