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Commissioners press for Title III action, warn of active fires and evacuation areas
Summary
Montezuma County commissioners discussed active wildfires that began in Montezuma County and extended into Dolores County, urged rapid use of Title III funds for early-detection signs and agreed to place Title III on the next agenda while noting a 45-day public-notice requirement after approval.
Montezuma County commissioners used their June 30 meeting to highlight active wildfires in the county and to press for rapid action on Title III funding for early-detection signage.
Commissioner Copener urged the board to accelerate a decision on Title III funds to install early-detection signs, saying that one more sign could have been helpful. Another commissioner noted that the board must publicly notice Title III decisions for 45 days under statute after approval, which limits how quickly signage can be placed once the board signs off.
Commissioners discussed adding Title III funding to the next meeting agenda so staff can begin the public-notice process; they asked staff to confirm timing and any required coordination with federal partners. County Administrator Travis agreed to help coordinate with federal partners and staff.
Separately, Commissioner Lindsay reported that the fire was moving northeast with limited suppression at the head, and said evacuation orders had extended to the Dolores–Norwood Road and parts of the Glade subdivision. Commissioners urged residents to avoid fireworks and be mindful of strained firefighting resources.
No formal action to expend Title III funds was taken at the meeting; the board directed staff to place the Title III discussion on the next agenda and to return with the details needed for a public decision and required notice.
