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This Week in Pics

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The Board of Mesa County Commissioners officiates the first 2017 public hearing with 13 items on the consent agenda and six items needing individual consideration.  

The Honorable Judge Flynn swears-in Mesa County District Attorney Dan Rubinstein into his first term in office. 

District Attorney Dan Rubinstein swears and affirms that he will support the Constitution of the United States, the Constitution of the State of Colorado, and the laws of the State of Colorado, and faithfully discharge his duties as Mesa County's District Attorney.  

Sixteen deputy district attorneys are sworn into office by the Honorable Judge Flynn.

The Oath of Office ceremony for the District Attorney's office includes the district attorney, assistant district attorney, three chiefs, two investigators and 16 deputy district attorneys. 
Community members attend the Mesa County Commissioners' inauguration ceremony.

Mesa County Commissioner Scott McInnis M.C.'s the re-elected commissioners' swearing-in ceremony.

The Honorable Judge McInnis swears Mesa County Commissioner John Justman into his second term in office.

Re-elected Mesa County Commissioner Rose Pugliese recites the oath of office officiated by the Honorable Judge McInnis.

The Honorable Grand Junction  Municipal Court Judge Care' McInnis administers the re-elected Mesa County Commissioners oaths of office.

 “Thank you for your continued support, it has been my honor to serve as your County Commissioner since 2013. I will continue to work hard on issues that Mesa County faces.” John Justman

Re-elected Mesa County Commissioners John Justman and Rose Pugliese officially start their second and final term in office. County Commissioners serve for four years for up to two terms. Their primary function is to govern by the Colorado Constitution and on behalf of the legislature to represent the interests of, and provide public services desired by the citizens of Mesa County.

Brother and sister join forces to officiate the inauguration ceremony for Mesa County Commissioners Rose Pugliese and John Justman. From left, Grand Junction Municipal Court Judge Care McInnis and Mesa County Commissioner Scott McInnis.

“I am honored and humbled to have the continued confidence of the Mesa County voters. Thank you for allowing me to represent you. I will continue to represent Mesa County on local, state and federal issues and fight to protect and enhance our economy.” Rose Pugliese

The 2017 Board of Mesa County Commissioners. From left, John Justman, Rose Pugliese and Scott Mcinnis

Criminal Justice Services' Employee of the Quarter, Employment Specialist Erika Rodriguez, was nominated by her peers as the outstanding employee for the 2016 fourth quarter. She is now in the running for the 2016 employee of the year that will be awarded on Jan. 28, 2017, at the employee awards banquet. Congratulations, Erika!

MCHD Executive Director Jeff Kuhr addresses staff at the first 2017 Quarterly All-Staff Meeting on Tuesday, Jan. 10.

Regional Epidemiologists gave a presentation about emergency preparedness to staff at a lunch 'n' learn event at the Health Department on Wednesday. Staff took their lunch break and learned about how to prepare for emergencies in Mesa County.

 Program Integration Manager Sarah Robinson and Health Promotion Specialist Troy Ward facilitated a Suicide Prevention Open House Forum Community Meeting at the Health Department on Tuesday night. About 145 people came to the meeting to help strategize how to prevent suicides in Mesa County.

Erin McIntyre, on her KAFM 88.1 radio show "Diggin' the Garden," interviews Mesa County Noxious Weed & Pest Management Coordinator Teresa Nees regarding upcoming events in the Upper Grand Valley Pest Control District.

Mesa County Noxious Weed & Pest Management Coordinator Teresa Nees & Mesa County Road & Bridge Administrative Assistant Heather Conder update the Weed & Pest display board for the Western Colorado Horticultural Society conference next week.

Properly dispose of your CFLs

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Did you know that even the new compact fluorescent light (CFL) bulbs we use in our homes today have mercury in them? If mercury is released, even in small amounts, it can damage the brain and central nervous system.

Use caution when handling CFLs and if you break a bulb in your home consult the EPA’s website for recommendations for when a CFL or other mercury-containing bulb breaks.

Properly dispose of your CFLs and other household hazardous waste at the Mesa County Hazardous Waste Collection Facility, 3071 Hwy. 50. For more information visit http://www.mesacounty.us/swm/hazmat/

This Week in Pics

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This week the Western Colorado Horticultural Society and VinCO Conference was hosted in Grand Junction, Colorado. Mesa County Noxious Weed & Pest Management Coordinator Teresa Nees attended to represent the Upper Grand Valley Pest Control District.

Many local fruits growers gather to participate in discussions concerning phylloxera, an insect that feeds on the roots of grapevines.

Fruit growers and industry specialists tour several orchards to discuss pest management and planting strategies.

 Attendees of the Western Colorado Horticultural Society and VinCO Conference tour, inspect the "fruits of their labor."


Mesa County Noxious Weed & Pest Management Coordinator Teresa Nees attends a pruning demonstration at an orchard in Olathe, Colorado.

Mesa County Noxious Weed & Pest Management Coordinator Teresa Nees and CSU Western Colorado Research Center staff man the booth at the WCHS & VinCO trade show.  

Dateline host Keith Morrison interviews Mesa County Sheriff's Office Sgt. Henry Stoffel and Sgt. Wayne Weyler about their work on the Paige Birgfeld Case.

From left, Mesa County Sheriff's Office Sgt. Henry Stoffel and Sgt. Wayne Weyler talk to Dateline NBC about their work on the Paige Birgfeld Case.

Dateline host Keith Morrison interviews Grand Junction Fire Department's Robert Thompson at the Mesa County Sheriff's Office impound lot.

 Dateline's camera crews capture footage of  Paige Birgfeld's vehicle while Keith Morrison interviews Grand Junction Fire Department's Robert Thompson at the Mesa County Sheriff's Office impound lot.

The Sheriff's Office and a local film crew work together to create a recruiting video that showcases their agency and our community.

Sheriff's Office investigators set up a fake crime scene for a new recruitment video.

Showing the camera crew how the Sheriff's Office processes fingerprints.

Sgt. Henry Stoffel talks about his experience working for the Sheriff's Office.  

Deputy Tracy Fiedler talks about what it takes to work at the Mesa County Detention Facility. 

Deputy Mark Johnson shares his stories on the job. 

The film crew captures the perfect angle.

The perfect background to showcase the beautiful views in Mesa County for the new Sheriff's Office recruitment video.

The camera crew captures the security checkpoint at the Mesa County Justice Center.

The Mesa County Sheriff's Wildland Fire team posing for the camera.
Commissioner Pugliese in Washington D.C. at President Donald Trump's inauguration ceremony. 
Commissioner Pugliese, second to the left, with family and friends at the inauguration ceremony for the 45th president of the United States.

New Year, New Chairman

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Board of County Commissioners elects Scott McInnis as their new Chair


The Board of Mesa County Commissioners today in public hearing elected Commissioner Scott McInnis as the 2017 Chairman of the Board. Scott McInnis succeeds Commissioner Rose Pugliese, who has served as Chairwoman since 2015.

Scott McInnis is a member of a longtime, multigenerational Colorado family. McInnis served as a member of the Colorado House of Representatives for the 57th district, where he was elected House Majority Leader, and served in the U.S. House of Representatives representing Colorado's 3rd district for six terms.

“I am honored to assume the role of Chairman,” McInnis said. “I feel privileged to work with my two colleagues John Justman and Rose Pugliese.”

Mesa County Commissioners will continue their priority work on budgetary challenges while focusing on the increased demand for law enforcement services, core government services and needed infrastructure with the efficient use of resources available. In addition, the Commissioners are committed to working within their budget for additional strategies for economic growth.

January is National Crime Stoppers Awareness Month in Mesa County

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The Mesa County Commissioners today proclaimed January 2017, as National Crime Stoppers Awareness Month and called upon residents to join Crime Stoppers of Mesa County to help prevent crime and make our community safer.

The Crime Stoppers of Mesa County program was founded in 1983 through the efforts of local law enforcement agencies and dedicated community members. The program operates as an independent organization to help fight crime in our community.

Crime Stoppers of Mesa County has received 18,550 tips, which have led to 1,720 arrests and 1,598 cases cleared. The effort has resulted in $269,000 in rewards paid to anonymous tipsters and $9,051,156 in property and drugs recovered as of December 2016

To read the proclamation, click here.

Darren Coltrinari along with other Mesa County Crime Stoppers members accepted the proclamation.

The Mesa County Commissioners today proclaimed January 2017, as National Crime Stoppers Awareness Month

Members of the Mesa County Crime Stoppers accept the proclamation

Crime Stoppers of Mesa County

January is National Crime Stoppers Awareness Month in Mesa County


This Week in Pics

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Mesa County Road and Bridge staff work through the night to remove snow accumulation on Powederhorn Road.

Plows push snow to the road shoulder to restore the width of Powderhorn road. The maintenance was done after midnight to avoid causing traffic delays. 

 The Workforce Center hosts a big hiring event that attracted many job seekers on Thursday.

Freddy's steakburgers staff conducts hiring interviews.

The staging area for applicants waiting for their interview at the Mesa County Workforce Center, 512 29 1/2 Road. 

The line of applicants waiting to be interviewed curled around through the hallways at the Workforce Center, 512 29 1/2 Road.

Mesa County Sheriff's Office Information & Communication Manager Megan Terlecky (left) and Mesa County Health Department Information & Communication Manager Katie Goddeyne (right) gave a social media training to the Mesa County Medical Reserve Corps. Wednesday night. The pair worked together to explain social media basics, and the group discussed how those outlets would be used during an emergency.

Travis Dorr (MCHD), center, Melanie Simons (CDPHE-OEPR), right, and Chris Mitchell, left,  (Onward Innovation) spent time at the Centers for Disease Control with 50+ preparedness partners from around the country to collaborate on a new document for Medical Countermeasure Operations.

From right to left: Travis Dorr (MCHD) and Melanie Simons (CDPHE-OEPR) assist in developing local and state level response plans that incorporate medical countermeasures. Medical countermeasures are resources (pills, vaccinations, medical supplies, etc.) that could be used by the public health department and healthcare providers to care for the population of a community during events that overwhelm the healthcare system and/or cause a threat to the health of the population in general.
 KREX  News Channel 5 Chelsea Helms interviews Kate Geer in honor of Deputy Derek Geer's memory.
The Sheriff's Office thanks our community for the support given to them each and every day! 
The Mesa County Commissioners today proclaimed January 2017, as National Crime Stoppers Awareness Month and called upon residents to join Crime Stoppers of Mesa County to help prevent crime and make our community safer.

January is National Crime Stoppers Awareness Month in Mesa County. The Crime Stoppers of Mesa County program was founded in 1983 through the efforts of local law enforcement agencies and dedicated community members. The program operates as an independent organization to help fight crime in our community.

Mesa County Building inspectors verify fire-blocking and fire rated assembly requirements at the new senior living facility located at 628 26 1/2 Road.
Mesa County inspectors verify the required engineered connections and shear framing to make sure it complies with the approved design at the new senior living facility located at 628 26 1/2 Road.
Mesa County Building Department checks for accessibility requirements such as required handicap parking spaces, signage and  accessible routes for ADA access at the new nursing and patient recovery facility at 2594 Patterson Road.

 Clerk & Recorder Sheila Reiner focusing on her canvass in a painting class at he 2017 Colorado County Clerks Conference in Colorado Springs.

From left to right: Sheila Reiner and Melissa Herek, Bobbie Gross and Jackie Campbell attended presentations on Recording and Motor Vehicle at the 2017 Colorado County Clerks Conference in Colorado Springs.

From left to right: Jesse Redmond, Melissa Herek and Bobbie Gross at the conference's opening presentation.

Elections Director Amanda Polson at the Colorado County Clerks conference's opening presentation.

Pest Alert

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The Board of Mesa County Commissioners will consider the addition of three fruit pests to the Upper Grand Valley Pest Control District's list of regulated species on Monday, Feb. 6  at 9 a.m. in public hearing.

 Cytospora canker, or gummosis, on a local fruit tree.




The District Advisory Committee for the Upper Grand Valley Pest Control District are petitioning the Commissioners to add the grape phylloxera (Daktulosphaira vitifoliae), spotted wing drosophila (Drosophila suzukii) and cytospora spp. (Cytospora leucostoma, C. cinctum and C. paraleucostoma) to the list of regulated species in the UGVPCD district, which encompasses areas within Clifton, Palisade and Orchard Mesa.

Boundaries include – North: I-70 and I-70B. East: The Grand Mesa. South: Orchard Mesa Canal #2. West: 33 Road between I-70 and Highway 6 & 24, 30 Road between I-70B and the Colorado River and 30 ¼ Road between the Colorado River and the OM2 Canal.

Landowners within the district are asked to provide input. Comments are due on Sunday, Feb. 5, at midnight and should be submitted to weed.pest@mesacounty.us.

Upper Grand Valley Pest Control Newsletter


This Week in Pics

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Representatives for the Upper Grand Valley Pest Control District wait with Mesa County Noxious Weed & Pest Management Coordinator Teresa Nees to brief the Board of Mesa County Commissioners on new pests of concern in the grape and fruit industries.

Mesa County Noxious Weed & Pest Management Coordinator Teresa Nees attends a meeting with the Farm Bureau Committee to present new information about weeds across the county and pests of concern in the UGVPCD.
Mesa County Health Department Information & Communication Manager Katie Goddeyne gave a basic media training to staff members on Monday afternoon. The group reviewed media policies and learned some tips and tricks on how to give an informative interview.
Mesa County Building Department hosts a seminar covering the 2012 IRC Conventional Light Framing and 2012 International Building Code Fire Resistant Rated Construction.  

The 2012 IRC Conventional Light Framing explores the provisions of the 2012 International Residential Code as it pertains to allowable limits of conventional framing.

Mesa County Public Works staff attend the IRC Conventional Light Framing seminar to keep up with the guidelines and regulations for residential construction.

Staff from the Department of Human Services and Workforce Center start the Super Bowl festivities early with team tailgate parties. Aimee Wride from Quality Assurance dippin' in.

Kim Burtard, Jackie O'Donnell, Jessica Abbott WFC's Childcare Assistance team discuss plans for Sunday's game.

  DHS's reception area -team members April Puter and Shannon Vassen give an assist to clients

LeeAnn Tallman, Nancy Ahrens, Alicia Griffin huddle near the tailgate snacks at the Workforce Center. 

Kezia Schmidt Child Welfare Support, Jessica Branson Operations take a time out for some treats. 

Mesa County Building officials verify the necessary accessibility requirements at the new senior living facility located at 628 26 1/2 Road.

 Mesa County Building officials inspect the new nursing and patient recovery facility at 2594 Patterson Road.

Deputy Janielle Westimire and Deputy Kandyce Stuckenschneider sit down for interviews for the Sheriff’s Office recruitment video.

Deputy Janielle Westimire talks about what it takes to be a Mesa County sheriff's deputy and why she decided to join.
Deputy Kandyce Stuckenschneider her experience working for the Mesa County Sheriff's Office.

KREX News Channel 5 Brandon Thompson interviews Acting Undersheriff Todd Rowell about Mesa County’s crime rates and what the Sheriff’s Office is doing to combat it.

Mesa County Public Works Project Manager Shawn Herron and Building Inspector Bob Lunsford at the 2012 IBC fire-resistive rated construction seminar.

Mesa County Chief Building Official Darrell Bay attends the 2012 IBC Fire Resistant Rated Construction seminar for or a review of how a building is classified as a specific type of construction, based on the construction materials and the various building elements’ resistance to fire.

Mesa County Building Department hosts annual code compliance classes taught by Steve Thomas from Colorado Code Consulting. Classes are open to the public. Many Western Slope building inspectors, firefighters, contractors, architects, and engineers attended this year’s seminar.

John Anderson with the Mesa County Building Department at the 2012 IBC Fire Resistant Rated Construction workshop.
Colorado Code Consulting Steve Thomas presents the 2012 IRC Conventional Light Framing and 2012 IBC Fire Resistant Rated Construction seminar.

Mesa County Assessor's Office Assessment Analyst helps a caller with a question regarding the assessed value of their property.

The UGVPCD's regulated species list may soon see some additions

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Upper Grand Valley Pest Control District residents will consider the addition of three fruit pests to the UGVPCD's list of regulated species.

Ballots will be mailed today (Feb. 8, 2017) to residents that own parcels of five acres or more in the Upper Grand Valley Pest Control District. Residents will have ten business days to turn in votes.

The species of being considered are:
Grape phylloxera (Daktulosphaira vitifoliae)
Spotted wing drosophila (Drosophila suzukii)
Cytospora spp. (Cytospora leucostoma, C. cinctum and C. paraleucostoma)

UGVPCD boundaries include:
North: I-70 and I-70B
East: The Grand Mesa
South: Orchard Mesa Cana #2
West: 33 Road between I-70 and Highway 6 & 24, 30 Road between I-70B and the Colorado River and 30 ¼ Road between the Colorado River and the OM2 Canal.

To pick up a replacement ballot or to hand-deliver a ballot go to the Upper Grand Valley Pest Control District office located at 971 Coffman Road, Building B, Whitewater, CO.

Ballots must be returned by 5 p.m. Wednesday, Feb. 22, 2017. Postmarks are not accepted.

For more information, call  970.255.7121 or email weed.pest@mesacounty.us.

Secretary Jewell appoints Commissioner Justman to the Southwest Resource Advisory Council

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Recently the Bureau of Land Management announced appointments made by Department of the Interior Secretary Sally Jewell to the Southwest Resource Advisory Council.


Mesa County Commissioner John Justman was appointed to represent Mesa County. The Southwest RAC consists of members with diverse interests and backgrounds that advise the agency on public land management issues in Colorado.

“Resource Advisory Councils are a cross section of our partners and stakeholders, embodying the Bureau of Land Management’s collaborative approach to public land issues,” said Ruth Welch, BLM Colorado State Director. “I’m excited to work with our new Southwest Resource Advisory Council members and applaud their commitment to public service.”

For more information about the Southwest Resource Advisory Council, visit https://www.blm.gov/get-involved/resource-advisory-council/near-you/colorado/southwest-rac

This Week in Pics

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Deputy Derek Geer, a Navy veteran and loving father of two, served 15 years with the Mesa County Sheriff’s Office. He was honored with the Lifesaving award in 2012 for helping revive a woman in cardiac arrest.  After his death, Deputy Geer continued to save lives donating his organs to four different people.  In December of 2016, he was awarded the Medal of Honor posthumously. Deputy Geer is the only person to ever receive the Medal of Honor in the history of the Mesa County Sheriff’s Office.

The Mesa County Sheriff’s Office along with many community members paused for a moment of silence on Feb. 8 at 11:15 a.m. to honor Deputy Derek Geer’s service and sacrifice. The Grand Junction Regional Communication Center aired a Code 1 Air Memorial on all law enforcement radio channels in Mesa County. Code 1 Air is a radio call used to clear all radio traffic for a critical incident.

New Emerson School shows their support.

Local law enforcement, first responders, and family gathered to pay their respects to Deputy Derek Geer.

The combined Honor Guard of the Mesa County Sheriff's Office and the Grand Junction Police Department lay a wreath down on Deputy Geer's grave in a solemn ceremony to honor his service and sacrifice to the community.
A moment of silence in remembrance of Deputy Derek Geer.
A Code 1 Air memorial was broadcast at 11:15 a.m. on Wednesday over police scanner radios throughout Mesa County that lead a moment of silence in honor of Deputy Geer. "Deputy Geer gave his life while serving his community with courage and valor."

"The men and women of the Mesa County Sheriff’s Office, all public safety agencies and your dispatchers are forever grateful and proud to have served with Deputy Geer." Code 1 Air Memorial

The Honor Guard salutes a true local hero.

The combined Honor Guard of the Mesa County Sheriff's Office and the Grand Junction Police Department pay tribute to Deputy Derek Geer.

"Deputy Derek Geer, may you rest in peace and know that your honor will continue within all of us. Thank you for your service and sacrifice." Code 1 Air Memorial

"It was one year ago today that Deputy Derek Geer was shot and killed while on duty responding to a radio call. Community support for the Mesa County Sheriff’s Office and Deputy Geer’s family has been amazing. The outpouring of support has come to us in many ways from all facets of the community. That support has instilled a great sense of pride in everyone who works at the Sheriff’s Office. We are grateful for that support and I want to express a heartfelt thank you to the community and to all the members of the Sheriff’s Office who continue to provide a high level of service to the community during these difficult times." Mesa County Undersheriff Rusty Callow

 "We will never forget his ultimate sacrifice." Code 1 Air Memorial

Community members attend a memorial service in honor of  Deputy Derek Geer Wednesday morning at Long Family Memorial Park.

Community members wear blue ribbons in remembrance of Deputy Geer.
The Western Colorado Peace Officers Academy wear blue to show their support.

The DHS Welfare After Hours Team provides a delicious breakfast for the Sheriff's Office in remembrance and honor of Deputy Geer.

The Department of Human Services along with Workforce Center staff wear blue in support of law enforcement on Wednesday. 
DHS/WFC Fun Bunch supplied all the items on Wednesday for staff to reapply the thin blue lines on their cars in support of Deputy Geer and law enforcement. 


Mesa County Department of Human Services Executive Director Tracey Garchar applies a new blue line.

Community members show their support for the Mesa County Sheriff’s Office and Deputy Geer’s family.

Strive members stop by the Mesa County Sheriff's Office to honor Deputy Geer. Strive, formerly known as Mesa Developmental Services, is a partnership of people supporting people.

Fruitvale Elementary School honors Deputy Derek Geer.

Pomona Elementary School adds a blue line to their fence in remembrance of Deputy Geer.
Mesa County Bridges MM-16-N.3 and MM-16-O.5 are located on 16 Road northwest of Fruita and are currently load limited. The two structures are separated by 1.2 miles and cross the Grand Valley Canal. The structures will be replaced and designed to transport current legal limit loads. Additionally, the structures will be widened to allow for future 16 Road corridor enhancements and growth. The project is partially funded by a DOLA grant.

The project on 16 Road that will replace the MM-16-N.3 and MM-16-O.5 bridges is scheduled for completion by the end of May.

Mesa County Health Department Regional Epidemiologist Andy Tyler spoke with R-5 students about careers in Public Health on Thursday. Multiple MCHD staff members from the Health Promotion Team and Nurse-Family Partnership presented to the class.

From left to right, Melissa Neubaum and Teresa Nees both with Noxious Weed & Pest Management assemble the ballot mailing to send to eligible property owners in the Upper Grand Valley Pest Control District. 

Teresa Nees, Amanda Polson and Jesse  Redmond with Elections share a group high five for the successful collaboration during the preparation of the Upper Grand Valley Pest Control District election.

Many County Offices Closed for Holiday

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Many Mesa County offices will be closed Monday, Feb. 20, 2017, in observance of Presidents' Day.

This closure includes:
Administration, Assessor, County Commissioners, County Attorney, Financial Services, Human Resources, IT, Surveyor, Treasurer (544 Rood Ave.)
Clerk & Recorder: Motor Vehicle, Recording, Elections, Clerk to the Board (200 S. Spruce St.)
Composting Facility, Hazardous Waste, Solid Waste Administration (3071 U.S. Hwy. 50)
District Attorney's Office (125 N. Spruce St.)
Facilities and Fairgrounds (2785 U.S. Hwy. 50)
Health Department & Department of Human Services (510 29 1/2 Road)
Public Works, Building, and Planning (971 Coffman Road & 200 S. Spruce St.)
Regional Transportation Planning Office (525 S. Sixth St.)
Sheriff’s Office: Records and Civil Divisions (215 Rice St.)
Tri River CSU Extension (2775 U.S. Hwy. 50)
Workforce Center (512 29 1/2 Road)

Alternate Hours:
Animal Services (971A Coffman Road near Whitewater) will be open from 11 a.m. - 1 p.m.

This closure does NOT include:
Coroner's Office
Criminal Justice Services (all locations)
Grand Valley Transit (525 S. 6th Street)
Mesa County Landfill (3071 U.S. Hwy. 50)
Sheriff's Office - Jail, Patrol, Emergency Services (215 Rice St.)

This Week in Pics

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Mesa County Health Department Executive Director Jeff Kuhr went live on Fox 4 News with Chelsea Helms to talk about Crisis Text Line, this week. Healthy Mesa County is promoting Crisis Text Line throughout Mesa County, giving residents one more tool to put in their mental health toolbox. Visit healthymesacounty.org for more info about Crisis Text Line or simply text "HELLO" to 741741.
The Mesa County Sheriff's Office reunites an Urn found among stolen property with its owner. 21-year-old Sarah O. said she had placed the Urn containing her father's ashes in the center console of her car while she moved last November. When she went to retrieve it, it was gone. Then, on Monday her friends saw the Mesa County Sheriff's Office post on Facebook about a found Keepsake Urn. Sarah said she couldn't believe it, she thought she would never see it again. The Keepsake Urn was found among stolen property recovered on November 3, 2016. Deputies were unable to find the rightful owner turned to the public and the power of social media. Sarah was located in a matter of hours.

News Channel 5 Reporter John Madden interviews Commissioner John Justman on his recent appointment by Department of the Interior Secretary Sally Jewell to the BLM's Southwest Resource Advisory Council. The Southwest RAC consists of members with diverse interests and backgrounds that advise the agency on public land management issues in Colorado. Mesa County Commissioner John Justman was appointed to represent Mesa County. For more information about the Southwest Resource Advisory Council, visit https://www.blm.gov/get-involved/resource-advisory-council/near-you/colorado/southwest-rac

Master Gardener Kathy Devine teaches a floral arrangement class just in time for Valentine's Day. The Tri River Area Master Gardener Program began in 1978 with eight volunteers and has grown to include about 150 members today. Well over 1000 people have gone through the program. 

The flower arrangement course taught by Master Gardener Kathy Devine gives students a great foundation on the technical tricks of flower arranging as well as composition, color, and design.

Master Gardener Kathy Devine demonstrates how to arrange an effortless, fresh, modern submerged silk flower centerpiece, 

Master Gardener Kathy Devine explains floral arrangement techniques. In addition to teaching citizens about flower arrangements, during an average year, Tri River Area Master Gardeners assist 10,000 members of our communities in solving their yard and garden problems and becoming better gardeners.

This course gives students a great foundation on the technical tricks of flower arranging as well as composition, color, and design.

Master Gardener Kathy Devine teaches a floral arrangement class just in time for Valentine's Day.

Master Gardener Kathy Devine's demonstrates how to arrange basic floral arrangement using red and white carnations.

Community members learn about how to essential principles and practical step-by-step techniques for floral arranging.

Master Gardener Kathy Devine demonstrates floral arrangement techniques including explaining products and finishing touches like ribbon tying.

The Colorado State University Extension Tri River Area Horticulture Program extends research-based information about plant-related concerns to home gardeners, the Green Industry (nurseries, sod farms, lawn care companies, arborists, etc.), commercial vegetable producers, government entities, and other community members and agencies in Mesa, Delta, Montrose, San Miguel and Gunnison Counties. For information about gardening and horticulture, visit http://tra.extension.colostate.edu/program-areas/gardening-hort/.

From left, CSU Extension Horticulture Coordinator Susan Honea, with Master Gardener Kathy Devine.

Nurse-Family Partnership (NFP) Nurse Michelle Howland, left, looks through clothes with one of her clients at the NFP Valentine's Day Clothing Exchange Tuesday. NFP moms brought in baby clothes to exchange with one another, enjoyed snacks and took photos at the selfie booth. To learn more about NFP, visit health.mesacounty.us.

 CSU Extension hosted the annual Western Colorado Pest Management Workshop at Two Rivers Convention Center. Nearly 300 people attended including farmers, orchardists, workers from private pest management companies; and city, county, state and federal employees.

Hundreds of people attend the Western Colorado Pest Management Workshop at Two Rivers Convention Center.

The annual Western Colorado Pest Management Workshop was hosted this year at the Two Rivers Convention Center.

 Guest speaker, JJ McCool from Alabama, gives a talk about wildlife pest solutions. He gave some additional examples of problems he encounters in the South: alligators.

Bob Hammon, CSU Extension Entomologist (middle) talks with speakers and attendee at Western Colorado Pest Management Workshop. Topics include: how to manage weed infestations, insect identification, common diseases in lawns and turf, as well as information about bark beetles, bats, and how to control pests while keeping people and wildlife safe.
Women, Infants & Children (WIC) Intern Alyssa Collins presents during a WIC class for WIC families Wednesday. WIC is a nutrition-focused program, so Alyssa helped families prepare a healthy snack. Visit health.mesacounty.us to learn more about WIC.
Department of Human Services and Workforcenter staff await the results of the monthly Values Champion presentation, a monthly recognition program that highlights employees who extraordinary exhibit the following values: humanity, balance, honesty, inclusion, and teamwork.

Department of Human Services Executive Director Tracey Garchar (left) presents a trophy to this month's Values Champs: Hilary Schwartz and Joe Gaizuts from Adult Services. Congratulations, Value Champs!
Mesa County Sheriff's Office Information & Communication Manager Megan Terlecky assembles an easel stand to display a photograph of Deputy Derek Geer in his honor and remembrance at the Mesa County Sheriff's Office lobby.  

Commissioner Rose Pugliese is in Denver at the Colorado Counties legislative meetings where she debates bills to represent Mesa County’s priorities.

The Mesa County Sheriff's Office receives a surprise from a few students in Palisade High School's IB program. Hannah Pacheco, Destiny Mendenhall, and Maddie Strychalski made cookies for the S.O. as part of their Creative Action and Service (CAS) project.

When are property tax payments due?

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Colorado law requires property tax payments in two equal installments, the first being due on or before the last day of February, and the second installment to be paid no later than the 15th day of June. If you are planning to pay your property taxes in full, they are due no later than April 30th.

The Mesa County Treasurer's office invite all taxpayers to utilize their website http://treasurer.mesacounty.us to check out property taxes owing. It is very easy to click on Pay/View Property Taxes. Follow the directions from there to see taxes owing for 2016, due in 2017.

Please call the Mesa County Treasurer’s office (970-244-1824) with any questions.

Minimize waste: recycling drop-off is free to Mesa County residents

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Roughly 75 percent of what goes into landfills is recyclable, reusable or compostable, but the current recycling rate in Colorado is only 12 percent, while the rest of the country is at 34 percent. A major portion of our waste can be recycled or reused.

Mesa County has several drop-offs and curbside options for recyclables and a drop-off facility for green waste, hazardous waste and more.

Visit http://www.mesacounty.us/swm/recycle/options.aspx and see what you can do to minimize waste.

County to receive Federal Lands Coordination Grant for Palisade Plunge Trail Project

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Mesa County has been selected to receive $200,000 in grant funding from the Department of Local Affairs (DOLA) as part of the Federal Lands Coordination Program, which is designed to support more effective local government coordination and engagement in federal land management decision-making processes.  

This grant will help fund the planning and design of the Palisade Plunge Trail Project, specifically the North River Road portion. The Palisade Plunge is a proposed route connecting the top of the Grand Mesa to the valley floor in the Town of Palisade via high quality non-motorized single-track.

“This is one of many steps in a multi-community effort to accomplish what will become a world-class must do experience,” said Chair of the Board of County Commissioners Scott McInnis.

The working group behind the project consists of representatives from the Bureau of Land Management, City of Grand Junction, Colorado Park and Wildlife, Colorado Plateau Mountain Bike Trail Association, Mesa County, Powderhorn Mountain Resort, Town of Palisade, U.S. Forest Service and others.  

“This project shows the Board of Mesa County Commissioners is supportive of outdoor recreation and growing economic development on the east end of Mesa County,” added Commissioner Rose Pugliese.

In 2015, the trail was designated to the State’s “16 in 2016” Trails program, as part of the Governor’s “Colorado the Beautiful Initiative,” identifying the 16 highest priority trails in the state for implementation.

For information on Federal Lands Coordination grants, visit https://www.colorado.gov/pacific/dola/federal-lands-coordination

This Week in Pics

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Mesa County is replacing the two bridges on 16 Road that cross the Grand Valley Canal. The two structures are separated by 1.2 miles and are currently being removed and rebuilt to be able to sustain the transport of current legal limit loads. The work also includes rebuilding approximately 855 linear feet of 16 Road including slopes, shoulders, drainage upgrades, and safety enhancements to the adjoining Grand Valley Irrigation Company service road.

The structures will be widened to allow for future 16 Road corridor improvements and growth. The project is partially funded by a Department of Local Affairs (DOLA) grant.

Mesa County O.5 bridge is located on 16 Road northwest of Fruita. The old structure has been removed and a
 74 ft. long by 14 ft. wide by 5 ft. tall concrete box culvert has been poured.

Mesa County N.3 bridge has been demolished and the new, 85 ft. long by 12 ft. wide by 5 ft. tall, concrete box culvert is in place. The project is running on schedule, and it is expected to be completed by early summer.

Mesa County Senior Maintenance Technician Jule Cantrell prunes the flower beds at the old Mesa County Courthouse, 544 Rood Ave. 

Before 8 a.m. on a sunny Wednesday morning, Mesa County Senior Maintenance Technician Jule Cantrell is already hard at work maintaining the grounds around the old Mesa County Courthouse.
 Mesa County Community Corrections and Work Release inmates arrive at the old Mesa County Courthouse to help  Mesa County Senior Maintenance Technician Jule Cantrell with pruning and clean up. 

Mesa County Elections wraps up their day by tabulating ballots for the Upper Grand Valley Pest Control District.

Mesa County Elections works on the ballots submitted by Upper Grand Valley Pest Control District residents for the addition of three fruit pests to the UGVPCD's list of regulated species.
Auction Starts at 10 a.m., Saturday, Feb.  25 at the Mesa County Fairgrounds 

Inventory arrives at the Mesa County Fairgrounds for the charity auction. Proceeds benefit FFA & 4-H programs of Mesa County

Left to right: Mesa County Assistant County Attorney John Rhoads and Mesa County Attorney Patrick Coleman have a discussion in the hallway. 

Commissioner John Justman stops by the Mesa County Attorney's Office to chat with the new Chief Deputy County Attorney Jeremy Savage and County Attorney Patrick Coleman.

Roughly 75 percent of what goes into landfills is recyclable, reusable or compostable, but the current recycling rate in Colorado is only 12 percent, while the rest of the country is at 34 percent. A major portion of our waste can be recycled or reused. Mesa County has several drop-offs and curbside options for recyclables and a drop-off facility for green waste, hazardous waste and more. Visit http://www.mesacounty.us/swm/recycle/options.aspx and learn what you can do to minimize waste.


Each year Mesa County Road and Bridge, Traffic, Hazardous Waste, and the Sheriff's Office, as part of the Mesa County Safety Council, participate in the Mesa County Safety Fair held at Mesa Mall in Grand Junction, Colorado. The Safety Fairs are typically held for two consecutive days in the last two weeks of February through first two weeks of March on an annual basis. The timing of fair dates varies year to year to accommodate attendee, participant, and Mall schedules.

Mesa County Traffic Technicians Brady Sartain and Nicole Frazier participate in the annual Safety Fair at Mesa Mall this Thursday and Friday.
Left to right: Mesa County Road and Bridge Matthew Nichols and Aaron Salazar at the 2017 Annual Safety Fair.

Mesa County Road and Bridge Jarrod Houck talks to community member about equipment safety.

Each year over a thousand kids attend the Safety Fair at Mesa Mall and go to the different stations to get some helpful safety tips from organizations throughout the community.

Mesa County Road and Bridge Administrative Assistant Heather Conder mans a booth at the 2017 Mesa County Safety Fair.

Mesa County Solid Waste Operations Manager Amber Swasey talks to community members about properly disposing of hazardous waste.  

Left to right: Mesa County Road and Bridge staff Jarrod Houck and Heather Conder talk to children about equipment and traffic safety. 

The Mesa County Safety Council has been promoting safety awareness among the public, students, organizations, and companies for many years. 

Mesa County Sheriff's Office Lt. Todd Sorenson at the Safety Fair.  

Mesa County Sheriff's Office Lt. Todd Sorenson talks to kids about safety.  

The Mesa County Safety Fair is an annual event held at Mesa Mall that targets second through fourth grade students and teaches them how to protect themselves at home, school, and play.

The Safety Fair sees a wide variety of visitors from the very young to the elderly and all are encouraged to participate in the fun, exciting and safety themed packed activities our fair has to offer.

Children at the Mesa County Safety Fair check out the Sheriff's Office patrol vehicles.

Cub Scout Pack 388 on a tour of the Sheriff's Office station.

The Western Slope VFW Post 3981 surprised Deputy Marsheila Hope with a certificate of appreciation and a gift certificate for her 18 years of service with the Mesa County Sheriff's Office. Well deserved! 

Congratulations, Deputy Marsheila Hope, on your milestone and ongoing hard work. The Western Slope VFW Post 3981 recognized Deputy Marsheila Hope with a certificate of appreciation for her 18 years of service with the Mesa County Sheriff's Office.

Our "Home Town Hero" Sergeant Cathy Tate was the Grand Marshal of the Lions Club parade Saturday!

Left to right: Health Promotion Manager Mary Cornforth Cawood and Information & Communication Manager Katie Goddeyne helped to inform Go Red for Women Dinner event-goers about how much sugar women actually need versus how much sugar is found in common foods.

Left to right: Health Promotion Manager Mary Cornforth Cawood, Health Promotion Specialist Emily Robertson and Information & Communication Manager Katie Goddeyne stop for a smile at the St. Mary's Go Red for Women Dinner at Colorado Mesa University, 1100 North Ave., Friday night. The group chatted with event-goers about healthy alternatives to sugary foods and drinks.

Left to right: Health promotion specialists Troy Ward, Karen Melott and Katie Smith talked to families about their sugar intake at the Sweet Heart 5k Health Expo on Saturday.

Representatives from the GPS mapping Software Company ESRI met with Mesa County staff from various departments about incorporating new applications.

Approximately 40 people have been attending the CSU Master Gardener training course. This week's topic included fruit growing and fruit pest management.

Susan Carter, CSU Extension Horticulture Agent, presents on small fruit growing at the Master Gardener training.

Teresa Nees of Noxious Weed and Pest Management, Susan Honea and Susan Carter with CSU Extension at the Master Gardener training.

County Finance Department honored with Excellence in Financial Reporting Award

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 Finance Department received the highest form of commendation in governmental accounting for the twenty-third year in a row


Mesa County Commissioners presented a Certificate of Achievement for Excellence in Financial Reporting by the Government Finance Officers Association of the United States and Canada (GFOA) to the Finance Department for its comprehensive annual financial report in public hearing.

The prestigious award recognizes governmental accounting and financial reporting and represents a significant accomplishment by the Finance Department leadership and staff, which includes Scott Stewart, Pam Noonan, Eleanor Thomas, Katherine Boozell, Judy Barnett, and Lynn Zubek. Mesa County has received this honor every year since 1993.


Mesa County’s financial reports met the high standards of GFOA’s award program, including demonstrating a constructive 'spirit of full disclosure' to clearly communicate its financial story and motivate potential users and user groups to read the comprehensive annual financial report.


Mesa County’s comprehensive annual financial report was judged by an impartial panel of GFOA reviewers.

GFOA is a nonprofit professional association serving approximately 17,500 government finance professionals.

Mesa County’s 2015 Financial Report is available at http://www.mesacounty.us/finance/cafr.aspx

Veteran's Services Officer, Brian Oney briefs Commissioners in Public Hearing

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In August 2016, Mesa County Commissioners adopted a Resolution appointing Brian Oney as the Mesa County Veterans Services Officer (VSO) for a term of 2 years. This appointment was made simultaneously with a Resolution to approve a Contract with Hilltop Community Services for the employment of a full-time Veterans Services Officer.


Brian is a United States Marine Corps veteran and has served as the Public Information Officer for Echo Company 2nd Battalion during his deployment. He has knowledge and experience to help veterans in our community.

In the first six months as Mesa County VSO, Brian has made 753 veteran contacts, had 261 office visits, and 56 service connected claims submitted. These numbers are more than double the numbers from the prior year.

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