Civic Issues
Topics getting the most attention in Lincoln County public meetings, ranked by how frequently they are discussed.
10 issues in public safety with high priority
New emergency command bus and COPS grant
A resident asked how prepared the county is for a grid failure or cyberattack — backup power, fuel, water treatment chemicals, and jail food supplies. No direct answer was given during the comment period.
Jail security control system upgrade
A contract will move the sheriff's aging records and jail management systems to the cloud, funded by about $400,000 saved on vehicle purchases.
Sheriff's training range rebuild
A $6.8 million two-story training facility with an 18-lane range failed to win approval 3-2. Commissioner Mullen questioned $1.6 million in grading costs and wants the range opened to the public for recreational shooting, a decision deferred until after construction.
Ambulance fleet reliability crisis
Five to eight county ambulances are out of service at any given time — two with blown engines, one wrecked, one with steering issues. Commissioners approved an unbudgeted $444,000 purchase to add capacity within three to four months.
Volunteer Firefighter and EMS Concerns
A resident warned the county runs only eight daytime ambulances across 300 square miles and criticized commissioners for ignoring the Sky Bell Foundation's offers to help volunteer firefighters.
Atrium Health freestanding emergency department for Denver
Atrium Health wants to build a 24/7 freestanding emergency department with a helipad and medical office building near the Walmart. Leaders say East Lincoln's growth and traffic make it hard to reach emergency care during rush hour.
South Fork Fire Service Contingency
As part of the proposed offsets, the city would eventually take over fire protection for the South Fork volunteer district if that department can't sustain itself — but only 'if and when' South Fork asks, county officials stressed.
Child protection and fatality prevention
The 2025 report shows 15 child deaths reviewed and 689 abuse/neglect investigations involving 1,700 children. Top risk factors: caregiver substance misuse, domestic violence, and mental health challenges. The team wants expanded parenting education and treatment capacity.
Exotic Animal Ordinance Adoption
The county now bans most exotic animals, with a 30-day grandfather window for currently permitted owners and a $150 annual permit fee. Owners say the rules are unclear, the fees are punitive, and enforcement will drive owners to hide their animals.
State of Emergency
Lincoln County just declared a state of emergency for COVID-19, meaning new local rules and event restrictions could be heading our way soon. It's basically a heads-up that officials are gearing up to control the spread as things develop.