Process begins to official designate unincorporated Weld County as an oil and gas local-control county
WELD COUNTY, CO — During today’s hearing, the Board of Commissioners set in motion the process to formally designate all of unincorporated Weld County as being under the purview of county government as it relates to mineral resources – particularly oil and gas.
“All through the legislative process, the public was told Senate Bill 181 would give control to local governments,” said Commissioner Pro-Tem Mike Freeman. “Today, we start down the path to make sure Weld County Government officially has local control over oil and gas permitting.”
The resolution passed today refers to the Board’s “authority to designate ‘matters of state interest’ in Weld County, which may then be subject to guidelines and regulations promulgated by the Board” per state statute and expresses the Board’s desire to have a public hearing on June 10, 2019, to consider the formal designation.
“The resolution passed today is the first step to ensure our future and a robust economy,” said Freeman. “We are taking control back from the state, as they have outlined in SB 181, and are defining clearly for the public and the industry that Weld intends on utilizing the tools, laws and policies afforded to us to maintain the working relationship we have had with the energy industry to the benefit of our oil and gas families and local small businesses.”
Today’s action directs staff to publish a public announcement about the June 10 hearing date, where the board will take formal action on the proposed designation. Public comment and participation is welcome at that meeting.
Submitted to The BARN by:
Jennifer Finch
Weld County Communications Director
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