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The Colorado County Commissioners Court approved a proclamation for Black History Month, urged residents to heed the weather forecast for when to light controlled burns safely and approved other business, Monday, Feb. 9.
Black History Month
The court’s proclamation recognized February as Black History Month and the many Black leaders that contributed to the development of the nation and the county. Expanding on a commemorative week started in 1926, Black educators and students at Kent State University celebrated the first Black History Month in 1970. The commemorative month became more widely known after President Gerald Ford recognized Black History Month in 1976.
“Whereas such knowledge can strengthen the insight of all of our citizens regarding the issues of human rights, the great strides that have been in the crusade to eliminate barriers for equality and minority groups and those who struggle against discrimination and poverty,” the proclamation read.
Careful burning
Precinct 1 Commissioner Shannon Owers urged residents to “be sure and be careful” when conducting controlled burns. The county rescinded its burn ban on Jan. 27, but windy weather has resulted in many burns becoming out of control.
Later that day, Frelsburg Volunteer Fire Department and Columbus Volunteer Fire Department fought an out-of-control burn that spread roughly an acre before being contained. Three days later on Jan. 30, five volunteer fire departments – Columbus, Ellinger, Frelsburg, Bernardo and Weimar – and Colorado County Office of Emergency Management responded to a controlled burn that spread beyond its pile. The fire had grown to 5 acres when reported and expanded to 20 acres when Columbus VFD arrived first to scene.
“Since the burn ban was lifted, we have seen multiple ‘controlled’ burns get out of control throughout the county,” a Facebook post on the Jan. 30 fire from the Columbus VFD read. “Just because there is not currently a burn ban does not mean it is safe or a good idea to burn. Conditions can change rapidly due to heavy winds, low humidity, and dry fuels.”
Columbus VFD advised against burning under any of the following conditions: heavy winds or a forecasted increase in shifting winds, dry or freeze-killed vegetation, low humidity levels (under 30%), if burner does not have adequate manpower, water or equipment on site, or if the fire cannot be actively monitored at all times.
Columbus VFD instructs residents to notify dispatch at Colorado County Sherriff’s Office at 979732-2388 ext. 1 of any controlled burns to prevent an unnecessary visit by firefighters.
Other business
Precinct 2 Commissioner Ryan Brandt announced that street work on the north side of Sheridan will be finished soon. The roads will have gravel until paving can be done in warmer weather. Future roadwork includes paving county of rights-of-way.
The court approved the submission of a grant application to the Office of the Governor for the State and Local Cybersecurity Grant Program. The grant would assist in funding increased firewall protections, backup systems, staff training and more.
The court rescheduled the public hearing regarding amendments to the County’s Tax Abatement Guidelines and Criteria to the 9 a.m. start of the regular meeting on Monday, March 9.
