Gov. John Hickenlooper today called for a statewide review of existing oil and gas operations following the disclosure of the cause of the Firestone home explosion that killed two and critically injured one other.
Our thoughts and prayers are with the Martinez and Irwin families at this difficult time.
Public safety is paramount. We are assessing whether these operations were conducted in compliance with state law and the Colorado Oil and Gas Conservation Commission’s (COGCC) rules. We also have issued a directive requiring oil and gas operators statewide to undertake the following actions:
- Inspect and pressure test existing oil and gas flowlines within 1,000 feet of occupied buildings to ensure integrity;
- Ensure that any lines that are not in use are properly marked and capped;
- Ensure all abandoned lines are cut below the surface and sealed.
Inspections of existing flowlines within 1,000 feet of occupied buildings must occur within 30 days and tested for integrity within 60 days. Lines that have been either abandoned or are not in use must be inspected within 30 days and abandoned under current rules within 60 days.
Since the day after the explosion and fire, COGCC and the Colorado Bureau of Investigation have worked closely with the Frederick-Firestone Fire Protection District and Firestone Police Department in its investigation of the cause and origin. In addition, COGCC has been conducting its own investigation into potential environmental impacts from nearby oil and gas operations.
The Frederick-Firestone Fire Protection investigation concluded that no additional contamination or danger exists to neighboring homes. We have and will continue to make all state resources available as needed.
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.
