This morning, during the Weld County Board of Commissioners meeting, the board voted 4-1 (Commissioner Saine was the lone “no” vote) to approve a policy that outlines rules and expectations for all commissioners, now and in the future. The adopted ‘Rules of the Board’ aims to bring consistency, accountability, order and decorum to the board of commissioners to ensure county government continues to operate in a professional manner for all Weld residents.
“This document memorializes what the expectations are in the role of county commissioner – not only for all commissioners to adhere to but also for the public have confidence that the board is working fully and professionally for the good of the county,” said Commissioner Chair Kevin Ross.
Included in the rules are in-person attendance requirements; protocol for virtual attendance to meetings and work sessions in cases of emergencies, illness or some other approved circumstance; general rules of professionalism for board meetings and commissioner coordinator briefings; and reminders about avoiding ex parte communication with potential land use applicants.
“This document effectively creates a solid written foundation for the board to work from,” said Ross. “Over the years, different boards have worked together to establish board practices and expectations but those have never been done in a formal way where future commissioners can reference those practices. It’s just good business to make sure everyone who is in office, or who is elected to office, has something they can refer to when it comes to understanding the role and expectations of a county commissioner.”
These rules, which take effect immediately, are administrative policy and not a change to the Home Rule Charter or County Code.
