SolSmart, a program funded by the U.S. Department of Energy’s SunShot Initiative to help communities increase the use of solar power, has awarded Adams County a gold designation as a national leader in advancing solar energy. The county is one of just 40 nationwide to receive the gold designation, the highest level awarded.
To achieve this designation, Adams County took steps to reduce solar “soft costs,” which are non-hardware costs that can increase the time and money needed to install a solar system.
Through SolSmart, Adams County was granted a technical advisor to assist in revising permitting processes and code regulations to ensure residents, businesses, and solar developers have a streamlined process to work with the county on new solar installations. Brandon Kiger, the technical advisor, worked with the permitting and planning divisions in the county’s Community & Economic Development Department on these initiatives and also worked with the City of Lafayette, which also received a gold designation, on regional collaboration efforts.
“This designation further solidifies our dedication to sustainable practices,” said Board of County Commissioners Chair Eva J. Henry. “Solar initiatives are a major piece of the Sustainable Adams County 2030 plan, and our departments continue to work as a team to make significant progress on our goals.”
Adams County also recently launched a Going Solar section on its website, providing information and resources for residents, business owners, and solar contractors to learn more about installing solar systems.
“Adams County continues to support the development of a strong renewable energy economy, including the development of solar resources across our county,” said Julia Ferguson, the county’s sustainability coordinator. “Through the SolSmart program and with the support of the U.S. Department of Energy and the National Renewable Energy Lab, the county has removed barriers to access for solar energy and made it easier for every home and business owner to go solar.”
To learn more about Adams County’s Sustainability program, including solar projects and the Sustainable Adams County 2030 Plan, visit adcogov.org/sustainability.
Adams County and RTD Release Joint Statement
The Regional Transportation District (RTD) and Adams County are excited to announce beginning Monday, Nov. 22, 2021, temporary service will be re-routed to provide services to the Adams County Justice Center.
In addition, through coordination between Adams County and RTD leadership, the two agencies were able to negotiate both a short-term and long-term solution to RTD Route 520 services to the Adams County Justice Center.
Board of County Commissioners Adopts 2022 Budget
The Board of County Commissioners unanimously adopted the 2022 Adams County budget at public hearing on Tuesday, Nov. 16. The 2022 budget is set at $659,207,432, which is an increase from 2021.
Femmi Clemons Appointed Veteran Service Officer
The Adams County Board of Commissioners unanimously appointed Femmi Clemons as the new Veteran Service Officer (VSO) for the county.
Femmi, a U.S. Army veteran, has three and a half years’ tenure at Adams County. In that time, she’s been dedicated to expanding the visibility of the office through intradepartmental informational sessions, outreach, and special group development for Adams County veterans.
Adams County Launches COVID-19 Grant Program
Adams County launched the COVID-19 Grant Program, funded by the American Rescue Plan Act (ARPA), a federal program, to help with response and recovery efforts in the community.
The program is designed to help provide financial support for projects and programs assisting in COVID-19 response and recovery efforts in Adams County. Businesses, nongovernmental organizations, nonprofit organizations, school districts, and special districts are encouraged to apply.
Adams County Files Litigation to Gain Access to Treasurer’s Office Accounts
Adams County has filed litigation with the Adams County District Court to gain access to the Treasurer’s Office accounts and ultimately ensure the statutory obligations of the Treasurer’s Office are being met. The county is asking the court to appoint a receiver to perform the functions of the Treasurer’s Office.
Raymond Gonzales Resigns as Adams County Manager
Raymond Gonzales has resigned his position as Adams County Manager, effective Nov. 30, 2021. Gonzales has taken a position as President of Metro Denver Economic Development Corporation (MDEDC) and Executive Vice President of Denver Metro Chamber of Commerce. He will remain with Adams County through November 2021 and will start his position with MDEDC Dec. 1, 2021.
Governor Polis Orders Flags Lowered to Honor Yuma Firefighter Darcy Stallings
DENVER - Governor Jared Polis today ordered flags to be lowered to half-staff on all public buildings from sunrise until sunset on Tuesday, October 26, 2021, in honor of Yuma Fire Department Firefighter Darcy Stallings, who passed away on Thursday, October 21, 2021. Funeral services for Firefighter Stallings will be held Tuesday, October 26, 2021, in Yuma.
Board Approves 2022 Holiday Schedule
The Board of County Commissioners passed Resolution 2021-573 Establishing Holidays for 2022. The county will observe 12 holiday closures and employees will have an additional Floating Holiday.
Adams County and Denver Botanic Gardens Sign Letter of Intent
Adams County and Denver Botanic Gardens (the Gardens) signed a non-binding letter of intent today to establish a formal partnership to work together to develop an expansion of Denver Botanic Gardens management and programming in Adams County. The Gardens is a Scientific & Cultural Facilities District (SCFD) Tier I organization.
Federal Boulevard Study Recommendations Available for Public Feedback
Online meeting active now through November 8
ADAMS COUNTY, CO – October 20, 2021 – An interactive online meeting is now available, presenting safety, mobility, and accessibility recommendations and improvements along Federal Boulevard from West 52nd Avenue to West 120th Avenue. Community members are encouraged to visit the on-demand, online meeting and provide feedback.
