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Elbert County commissioners adopt resolution asserting local health decision authority
Summary
The Board of County Commissioners unanimously approved a "declaration of sovereignty and health independence" stating the county will consider federal public‑health guidance but reserves the right to implement, modify or reject it where consistent with county interests and constitutional protections.
The Elbert County Board of County Commissioners voted unanimously June 10 to adopt a "declaration of sovereignty and health independence," a two‑page resolution asserting the board's authority to accept, alter or decline federal public‑health guidance for the county.
Commissioner Shorter, who introduced the measure, said the intent is for the board to make health decisions "here locally" while "asserting our rights as stated in Colorado statute." Shorter told the board the resolution was modeled in part on language used by Park County.
The resolution says the county will consider guidance issued by federal health authorities but "reserves the right to implement, modify, or reject such guidance as consistent with the county's interest, constitutional protections, and the welfare of its residents." A member of the public who spoke during comment said that paragraph "really summarizes" the measure.
Commissioners discussed the language briefly during the regular meeting and then approved the resolution by voice vote. The record shows the motion and second passed with the board answering "I" to indicate approval.
The board did not identify any immediate operational changes tied to the resolution during the meeting. Commissioners said the declaration is intended to clarify the board's stance and to preserve local decision‑making authority; no further implementing action or specific policy changes were announced at the meeting.
The resolution was the subject of public comment before the vote; one speaker thanked commissioners for "standing your ground" on the issue. The board adopted the resolution and moved on to other agenda items.
