A significant portion of the meeting was devoted to discussing the pilot community paramedic program. This initiative seeks to embed a community paramedic within the existing social worker framework to assist with mental health and substance use disorder issues, a concern in the county. The community paramedic would provide on-scene care and administer medications for addiction, such as Suboxone, during mental health crises. The proposal arises from the recognition that current social worker programs, while effective in responding to 850 calls over a given period, lack the capacity to administer medication or conduct health assessments.

The funding for this pilot program, projected at $161,000 for the first year, is intended to come from opioid settlement dollars. However, the sustainability of this funding source was a point of contention. One commissioner expressed concern about relying on these funds beyond the initial year, emphasizing the need for a sustainable financial plan. The commissioner remarked, “This is a lot of money,” and questioned the feasibility of returning to request the same funds in subsequent years. The board acknowledged the necessity of exploring alternative funding sources, such as public safety and adult mental health initiative grants, to ensure the program’s longevity.

Concerns about operational logistics were also raised, touching on the community paramedic’s role within the emergency response framework and how dispatch would manage calls. It was clarified that the paramedic would focus on low-acuity cases, allowing ambulances to attend to higher-priority situations. The community paramedic would self-dispatch based on real-time traffic and requests from first responders.

The board was divided on whether the program’s focus on treatment aligns with the intended purpose of prevention, as outlined by the opioid coalition. One commissioner voiced reservations, stating, “I interpret that the money is really… to prevent for prevention,” highlighting a potential misalignment with the coalition’s priorities. Despite these concerns, it was suggested that the program could indirectly contribute to prevention by supporting families impacted by substance use disorders.

In light of these discussions, a motion to approve the funding was tabled for further consideration, pending additional information. The board emphasized the importance of evaluating the program’s effectiveness after six months, with a commitment to seeking alternative funding if the pilot proves successful.

Another topic at the meeting was the board’s resolution to support Sky West as the preferred provider for air transport services under a four-year contract. Despite a slightly lower bid from Denver Air Connection, the board underscored the importance of community backing and Congressman Stalber’s support in overcoming the bid difference. A motion to send a resolution to the federal Department of Transportation was adopted unanimously.

The board also addressed a citizen petition regarding amendments to the county’s land use ordinance to allow commercial cannabis cultivation in rural residential zones. Resident Steve Zalinsky argued for the inclusion of cannabis cultivation in rural areas, citing the agricultural nature of the crop. The board was hesitant to amend the ordinance, citing the need for further deliberation and public hearings. A motion to deny the petition was approved, maintaining the current restriction of cannabis activities to commercial zones.

Additionally, the board discussed the upcoming implementation of a state mandate for paid family and medical leave, set to take effect in 2026. The county plans to enter into a contract with MetLife for a private plan, which offers a more favorable premium rate compared to the state’s option. Commissioner Lee confirmed that the costs would be shared between the county and its employees, aligning with state mandates.

The meeting concluded with the appointment of Kelsey A. Hops as the new county attorney, following the resignation of Donald F. Ryan. The board expressed confidence in Hops’ ability to handle the responsibilities of the role, emphasizing the significance of prosecutorial discretion.