Montrose County board names Joe Kirby as finalist for county manager

The Montrose County Board of County Commissioners announced Joe Kirby as the board’s finalist for the county manager position during a brief special meeting on March 12.

Leslie Kwan, speaking under Colorado’s open meetings law, cited Colorado Revised Statutes 24-6-402, subsection 3.5, and said, “The finalist selected by the board is Joe Kirby.” Kwan added that the board will announce next steps in the selection and appointment process in the coming weeks.

The announcement drew public remarks from commissioners praising Kirby’s experience and fit for the role. Commissioner Kirsten Copeland said the finalist was “singularly qualified,” noting that Kirby previously served as a county manager in Montrose County and has since “added significantly to his professional experience” that would benefit the county and community. The board emphasized that limiting public identification of finalists can protect other candidates from career jeopardy.

The board chair said the county had experienced ‘‘a bit of turmoil’’ in the past year and that the board sought a candidate who could step into the role, understand county operations and regional issues such as water and wildfire, and work effectively with department directors who had expressed support for the candidate.

Commissioner Sean Pond echoed the comments, saying he was ‘‘excited’’ about Kirby’s resume and the stability the selection could bring.

No members of the public spoke on the matter during the meeting. The chair then moved to adjourn; the motion passed by voice vote and the meeting ended at approximately 3:37 p.m.

Next steps: the board said it will provide further details on the appointment process and timeline in the coming weeks.