Pitkin County schedules interviews for District 2 commissioner vacancy; 10 applicants vetted

Pitkin County staff told the Board of County Commissioners on Feb. 10 that 10 applicants were confirmed eligible for the District 2 commissioner vacancy and that interviews are scheduled for Feb. 17.

Staff (Interim County Manager Cara Silbernago and HR Director Melissa Knight) said the office received completed applications, vetted eligibility with the clerk and recorder, and posted the candidates’ materials for public review. The ten candidates (as posted) include Andorra Renee, Megan Ruby, Thomas Egan, Edward Mann, Emily Colby, Scott Wooley, Chris Mingus, Max Van Hamu, Katie Frisch and Charles Tarver. Staff proposed two interview blocks (five candidates each) with 15‑minute time slots and a 15‑minute break between blocks, plus an optional 30–45 minute hold at the end of the day for follow‑up clarifying questions.

Public comment and schedule: staff reported first-reading of a resolution for appointment is scheduled for Feb. 26 and second reading for March 3 with oath of office at noon on March 3, and said counsel had advised the board about public‑comment options at hearings. Commissioners discussed whether to accept public comment at first reading, second reading or both; staff confirmed both hearings would include opportunities for public comment but that the board could confirm the approach with legal counsel.

Next steps: staff will send scheduling notices to applicants and finalize interviews. The board did not make a final appointment at the Feb. 10 work session; interview and hearing schedules will proceed according to the proposed timeline.