Congresswoman's regional director briefs Custer County on zip-code bill, reservoir authorization and VA clinic timeline

Justin, regional director for the office of the congresswoman representing the 7th congressional district, briefed the Custer County Board of County Commissioners on Jan. 15 about several federal matters affecting the county.

He said a bill to restore or create a distinct zip code for Silver Cliff was reintroduced in Congress and has bipartisan support; sponsors intend to add additional communities before further action. Commissioners asked whether a new zip code would require a new post office or alter local postal operations; Justin said a zip code does not necessarily require a physical post office and he would follow up with the U.S. Postal Service.

Justin noted the John Griffin Regional Reservoir provision recently signed by the president is an authorization, not an appropriation, meaning the project has authorization but no immediate federal funding. He said the Army Corps of Engineers will revisit project proposals in coming years and that the county remains engaged on reservoir and water projects.

He said the congresswoman continues to press for Westcliffe water and sewer infrastructure to be included as FY25 budget discussions proceed; those appropriations remain uncertain while Congress operates under a continuing resolution.

Justin also said the Department of Veterans Affairs has included a Fremont clinic in an FY26 proposal; if it proceeds, the goal is for doors to open in FY27, subject to agency decisions and federal appropriations.

Separately, he said Silver Cliff received an award in the previous fiscal year of roughly $1.3 million through a USDA program for a town plaza; staff are working to remove agency barriers so funds can be disbursed. Finally, he noted the congresswoman is temporarily remaining in Colorado owing to late-stage pregnancy and that staff are seeking limited proxy voting for new parents in Congress.