Rio Blanco commissioners approve online tax-search tool, $197,000 water truck and routine business; staff briefed on dozens of state bills

The Rio Blanco County Board of Commissioners on Feb. 10 approved a set of administrative purchases and appointments, while staff urged the board to monitor a wide range of proposed state bills.

During a routine session that opened at 9:01 a.m., the board approved the day’s agenda and the consent agenda, which included payroll and accounts-payable reports and minutes from January meetings. The board also approved the Meeker Golf Course liquor license after staff noted state approval and the county fee payment.

The board ratified an engineering agreement for Emergency Watershed Protection work related to recent fire and flood damage; staff said the Natural Resources Conservation Service’s EWP program covers engineering and up to 75% of construction costs, with the Department of Homeland Security–Emergency Management (DHSEM) available to cover remaining gaps. Commissioners were told the county’s share could be roughly 12.5% if no other funds come in.

In a primary operational decision, commissioners approved a $15,000 one-time purchase to add a property tax ‘‘search’’ feature on the county website for the treasurer’s office. Treasurer Lisa (identified in the meeting) told commissioners…