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Erie approves amended IGA with Boulder County to continue co-responder program
Summary
Erie council approved an amendment to its IGA with Boulder County to continue stationing two co-responders in Erie, updating the agreement to reflect higher salaries and benefits and noting increased program usage; council endorsed the contract amendment after questions about operations and call types.
The Erie Town Council on April 8 approved an amendment to the town’s intergovernmental agreement (IGA) with Boulder County to continue hosting two dedicated co-responders at the Erie Police Department.
Police Chief Lee Mathis told council the IGA—originally in place since about 2022—covers Boulder County staff assigned to work with officers on mental-health-related calls. Chief Mathis said calls involving co-responders rose 30% in 2023 and described the partnership as vital: co-responders provide de-escalation, resources and follow-up services for individuals in crisis.
The proposed amendment replaces the previous agreement and accounts for increases in co-responder salaries and benefits. Council members asked the co-responder team to describe a typical call and why specialized personnel are needed. Chief Mathis explained that officers often respond first to safety concerns (suicidal ideation, home disturbances), and co-responders provide behavioral-health expertise and linkages to services. He added that the town does not have resources to operate its own program and that regional staffing provides efficiencies across jurisdictions.
Council moved, seconded and approved the resolution by voice vote. The amendment authorizes the town to continue paying the salary and benefits for co-responders housed in Erie under the revised terms.
