April 7, 2026
Gunnison County Board of Commissioners - 1 -
Minutes of April 7, 2026 Regular Meeting
Approved by BOCC April 21, 2026
GUNNISON COUNTY BOARD OF COUNTY COMMISSIONERS
REGULAR MEETING MINUTES
April 7, 2026
The April 7, 2026 meeting was held in the Board of County Commissioners’ meeting room located at 200
E. Virginia Avenue, Gunnison, Colorado. Present, either in person or via Zoom, were:
Laura Puckett Daniels, Chairperson Matthew Birnie, County Manager
Elizabeth Smith, Vice-Chairperson Holly Perry, Deputy County Clerk
Jonathan Houck, Commissioner Others Present as Listed in Text
Matthew Hoyt, County Attorney
GUNNISON COUNTY LOCAL LIQUOR LICENSING AUTHORITY MEETING:
CALL TO ORDER: Commissioner Puckett Daniels called the meeting to order at 8:46 a m.
CONSENT AGENDA: Moved by Commissioner Smith, seconded by Commissioner Houck to approve the
consent agenda as presented. Motion carried unanimously.
- Alcohol Beverage License #03-20783; Big T CBS LLC dba Zuni West Brewing; 3/19/2026 to
3/19/2027 - Alcohol Beverage License #03-02906; Irwin Backcountry Guides LLC dba Movie Cabin; 5/20/2026
to 5/20/2027 - Alcohol Beverage License #03-02907; Irwin Backcountry Guides LLC dba Parking Barn; 5/20/2026
to 5/20/2027
ADJOURN: Commissioner Puckett Daniels adjourned the meeting of the Gunnison County Local Liquor
Licensing Authority at 8:46 am.
GUNNISON COUNTY BOARD OF COUNTY COMMISSIONERS REGULAR MEETING:
CALL TO ORDER: Commissioner Puckett Daniels called the meeting to order at 8:46 am.
AGENDA REVIEW: There were no changes made to the agenda.
MINUTES APPROVAL: Moved by Commissioner Houck, seconded by Commissioner Puckett Daniels to
approve the March 3rd meeting minutes as amended, and the March 17
th
meeting minutes as presented.
Motion carried unanimously.
- March 3, 2026 Regular Meeting
- March 17, 2026 Regular Meeting
SCHEDULING: The Upcoming Meetings Schedule was discussed and updated.
CONSENT AGENDA: Moved by Commissioner Houck, seconded by Commissioner Smith to approve the
consent agenda as presented this morning. Motion carried unanimously.
- Acknowledgment of Appointment; Gunnison Basin Sage-grouse Strategic Committee; Bureau of
Land Management (BLM) Alternate; Remainder of term to 2/1/2028; Gwen Harris - Grant Application; Colorado Department of Early Childhood; Health and Human Services; 7/1/2026
to 6/30/2027; $146,255 - Grant Application; Colorado Department of Criminal Justice; Juvenile Services; 7/1/2026 to
6/30/2027; $27,803 - Acknowledgment of County Manager’s Signature; Engagement Letter and Standard Terms;
Spencer Fane; Attorney’s Office - Acknowledgment of County Manager’s Approval; Grant Application; SIPA Micro-Grant;
Communications; 2026; $10,000 - Grant Application; Gunnison Home Association; GV-HEAT; 4/1/2026 to 9/30/2026; $8,000
- A Resolution Adopting Policy 1.2.2.4, Gunnison-Crested Butte Regional Airport Fees Related to
Airport Identification Badges, Fingerprinting, and Landing Fees for General Aviation Aircraft - A Resolution Repealing/Rescinding Previously Adopted Gunnison County Policies
- Professional Services Agreement; HDR Engineering, Inc.; Communications & Economic
Development; 4/7/2026 to 12/31/2027; $634,981.13 - Quote# Q-2457971; Sourcewell Contract # 102924-SAM; Samsara; Public Works; 6/21/2026 to
6/20/2027; $7459.20
COUNTY MANAGER’S REPORTS:
- Airport Real Property Purchase Review – CM Birnie explained this property is at the entrance of the
airport across from the monument sign. This transaction is closed, but under delegation of authority
he brought it to the Board for review. Commissioner Smith expressed her appreciation for the work
done.
April 7, 2026
Gunnison County Board of Commissioners - 2 -
Minutes of April 7, 2026 Regular Meeting
Approved by BOCC April 21, 2026
ALTERNATE APPEAL SCHEDULE REQUEST 2026; GUNNISON COUNTY ASSESSOR’S OFFICE:
County Assessor Alexandra Cohen was present for discussion.
Assessor Cohen explained this is an annual request to use the alternate appeal schedule in 2026. They
have used this schedule since 2017 and it gives the Assessor’s Office additional time to follow up on
concerns and do any physical inspections necessary once appeals are received which also benefits the
property owners. Moved by Commissioner Houck, seconded by Commissioner Smith to authorize the
request to use the alternate protest and appeals procedure in 2026 as presented by the County Assessor
this morning. Motion carried unanimously.
BREAK: The meeting recessed from 8:54 until 9:00 am for a short break and then from 9:00 until 10:30
am in order to hold the below Public Hearing.
PUBLIC HEARING; SHORT TERM RENTAL LICENSE REGULATIONS: Planning Director Hillary
Seminick was present for discussion.
A Resolution Amending the
Gunnison County Land Use Resolution and Amending
Resolution No. 25-19
Schedule of Fees for the Community Development Department
Permit ApplicationsOpen Public Hearing. Commissioner Puckett Daniels opened the Public Hearing at 9:00 am.
Public Notice Confirmation. PD Seminick confirmed that the Public Hearing had been properly
public noticed.Identify Ex Parte Communications. n/a
Staff Presentation. PD Seminick relayed that this was a Land Use Resolution (LUR) amendment
that has been directed by the Board in accordance with the BOCC’s Strategic Plan goal, to deliver
high quality services. The Planning Commission reviewed draft language and provided a
recommendation on February 5, 2026, and with potential adoption from the Board, the effective
date will be July 1, 2026. She then gave a brief presentation explaining what the licensing is and
the process of obtaining one.
PD Seminick stated there were written comments received prior to the publication of the packet,
which were summarized in the memo and draft resolution, and uploaded to the online portal which
is separate from the BOCC packet.Applicant Presentation. n/a
Board Questions. Commissioner Houck clarified that unincorporated Gunnison County will have
the occupancy size toggle with the sewer system and could be different. Commissioner Smith
confirmed that in the event of a sale, the new property owner would need to obtain a permit.
Additionally, PD Seminick confirmed that while a renewal notification is not currently in place, it
could be something that could occur in the future.
PD Seminick noted that the licensing only applies to residential properties and requires no license
for commercial properties. Commissioner Houck stated that in the event that a HOA or POA
prohibits STRs, obtaining a license is not work around to override that rule.Public Comments. Commissioner Puckett Daniels opened the Public Hearing to comments at 9: 28
am.
a. Mr. Olivi er – Mr. Olivier asked how they intend to ensure people are complying if there are
no staff to perform inspections.
b. Colleen Hannon – Ms. Hannon supports the licensing process and the light touch. She also
thanked the planning staff.
c. Mark Schumacher – Mr. Schumacher described Three Rivers Resort and recommended
getting a count on the commercial STRs and to charge $50 instead of $150 for the fee.
d. Deb Hoven – Ms. Hoven appreciated the licensure but asked to require inspection of the
septic for the occupancy.
e. Todd Colvin – Mr. Colvin had several comments including if the Colorado Account Number
or license number will be required on STR websites and if there would be an issue with
confidentiality of the owners, if reservations already reserved will be affected, mentioned
that a one -hour response time can be unattainable, and lastly asked for clarification if he
would need a STR license if he’s within the 14-day grace period the government gives
people.Acknowledge Correspondence Received. PD Seminick relayed prior to the publication of the packet,
there were a number of comments summarized in the packet.Applicant Response. n/a
April 7, 2026
Gunnison County Board of Commissioners - 3 -
Minutes of April 7, 2026 Regular Meeting
Approved by BOCC April 21, 2026
10. Board Discussion – In response to Mr. Olivier’s question, PD Seminick stated the licensing will not
require onsite inspections but that they will still be required to be in compliance, and if there are
concerns, it is intended to spread out the administrative burden among existing staff.
In response to Mr. Colvin’s questions, CM Birnie stated he doesn’t believe having the Colorado
Account Number posted would open a confidentiality concern, but they will explore it to verify. PD
Seminick relayed regarding existing reservations, she does not see any issues as it is already
existing use, it is just licensure. Regarding the proposed response time, Commissioner Houck
explained that the goal is to have someone who can respond, and CA Hoyt suggested changing
shall to may, which would allow staff to determine what is needed for response time.
At this time, Commissioner Puckett Daniels relayed she would need to transfer the running of the
meeting to Commissioner Smith in order to attend an appointment. Before she left, she stated that
she would like more time to consider this and is open to either keeping the public hearing open or
closing it based on what the other Commissioners decide.
Commissioner Puckett Daniels left the meeting at 10:13 am and Commissioner Smith will be temporarily
running the meeting until her return.
With continuing a response to Mr. Colvin’s last comment, PD Seminick stated there is no grace
period for licensing and any STR that is rented for a period of less than 30 days for an exchange
of money will need to obtain a license.
In response to Mr. Schumacher’s comments, Commissioner Houck relayed that there needs to be
clarification for people who have commercial licenses for operation, and PD Seminick relayed they
will look into similar jurisdictions and how they have handled this.
In response to Ms. Hoven’s comment regarding septic inspections for occupancy, PD Seminick
reiterated they will require an affidavit stating they are in compliance. However, licensure is one
step towards potentially more rigorous regulations.
11. Close Public Hearing. Commissioner Smith relayed she is in favor of continuing the public hearing
based on the questions raised and the changes that are needed. Commissioner Houck suggested
going with CA Hoyt’s recommendation and closing the public hearing, so staff has time to address
concerns and not be backed up against a time frame and suggested also delaying the effective July
1st date. CA Hoyt emphasized that constituents may continue to reach out and provide written
comment, but they won’t be part of the record. Commissioner Smith agrees with closing the public
hearing. Moved by Commissioner Smith, seconded by Commissioner Houck to close the public
hearing. Motion carried unanimously. The public hearing closed at 10:30 am.
Commissioner Smith expressed gratitude for all those in attendance and noted they welcome emails or
comments even though the public hearing has closed. Staff will also work with Communications Director
Patty Dowd Schmitz to help push out information.
UNSCHEDULED PUBLIC COMMENT: There were no persons present for discussion.
COMMISSIONER ITEMS:
Commissioner Houck:
- Senator Bennet – Commissioner Houck met with Senator Bennet while he was in town
regarding the Gunnison Outdoor Resource Protection (GORP) Act and noted that Congress is
not seeing that going anywhere at the moment. He stated that Delta County continues to be
supportive of the GORP Act. - Dr Jonathan Coop and Dr. Briget Eastep – Commissioner Houck met with Dr. Coop and Dr.
Eastep regarding Spruce Beetle Epidemic & Aspen Decline Management Response (SBEADMR)
and its next steps as well as the Taylor Park Adaptive Management Group. - State Land Board – Commissioner Houck relayed there is an interim committee report coming
out that is being finalized this week. - Mayors and Managers – A ll three commissioners attended.
- Land Managers – Commissioner Houck met with the land managers and reiterated the wildlife
closures that are in effect from Gunnison County roads despite dry conditions and remain in
effect until May 15
th
as well as Signal Peak being closed to bikes until May 1
st
. - CPW Wildlife Manager Brandon Diamond – Commissioner Houck had a couple meetings with
WM Diamond to get information regarding sage-grouse, wolves, and other issues.
Commissioner Smith:
- Trail Closures – Commissioner Smith commented the Gunnison Basin Sage-grouse Strategic
Committee has been relaying trail closures as well. - Cheatgrass Habitat Restoration Coordinator – Commissioner Smith continues to work with the
stakeholders’ group who have been supportive of Cheatgrass and Habitat Restoration
April 7, 2026
Gunnison County Board of Commissioners - 4 -
Minutes of April 7, 2026 Regular Meeting
Approved by BOCC April 21, 2026
Coordinator position and look to also support financially. They’re working on the final details
of an Intergovernmental Agreement for the position.
3. Conservation District Annual Banquet Dinner – Commissioner Smith attended the Conservation
District Annual Banquet Dinner.
4. Upper Gunnison River Water Conservation District (UGRWCD) – Commissioner Smith stated
that the UGRWCD presented the dire water conditions at the dinner. She was also able to take
an eco-flight to look at winter recreation and snowpack from above.
5. Crystal River Wild & Scenic – Commissioner Smith relayed they have continued to meet and
trying to determine if there is a path forward. She also pushed to have an Intergovernmental
Agreement finalized which will come to the Board for their consideration soon.
6. Mesa and Delta County Commissioners – Commissioner Smith had a conversation with
Commissioners Wendell Koontz and Cody Davis regarding water and legislative issues.
7. Visitor Center – Commissioner Smith met with Chamber Director Leora Wallace and TAPP
Executive Director Andrew Sandstrom regarding renovations of the Gunnison Visitor Center.
Commissioner Houck asked if the City is involved in the conversations since they own the
building and Commissioner Smith replied she has on the side; however, no major renovations
are being contemplated at this point.
8. Human Services Negotiations – Commissioner Smith noted that Colorado Counties, Inc.
Steering Committees (CCI) has been instrumental in shifting the conversations away from the
proposal presented from the State.
9. Gunnison Valley Regional Transportation Authority (RTA) – Commissioner Smith stated there
was a productive retreat last Friday. Matt Schwarts and Commissioner Smith spent time
gathering information from board members to understand if there was a clear divergence
between the RTA’s strategic plan versus where the board sees opportunity and a need for
evolution. Executive Director Scott Truex is planning on putting together pro formas for what
service expansions are high priority and their cost.
EXECUTIVE SESSION, PURSUANT TO C.R.S. § 24-6-402(4)(B): CONFERENCES WITH THE
COUNTY ATTORNEY, DEPUTY COUNTY ATTORNEY OR ASSISTANT COUNTY ATTORNEY FOR
GUNNISON COUNTY FOR THE PURPOSE OF RECEIVING LEGAL ADVICE RELATED TO LEGAL
ISSUES SURROUNDING GUNNISON BASIN SAGE-GROUSE STRATEGIC COMMITTEE’S
TECHNICAL SUBCOMMITTEE’S PROPOSED HPT (HABITAT PRIORITIZATION TOOL) UPDATES:
Moved by Commissioner Houck, seconded by Commissioner Smith to go into Executive Session, pursuant
to Colorado Revised Statues § 24-6-402(4)(b): Conferences with the County Attorney, Deputy County
Attorney or Assistant County Attorney for Gunnison County for the purpose of receiving legal advice related
to legal issues surrounding Gunnison Basin Sage-Grouse Strategic Committee’s Technical Subcommittee’s
proposed Habitat Prioritization Tool updates. Included in the Executive Session will be the Board of County
Commissioners, with Commissioner Puckett Daniels participating remotely, the County Attorney, the County
Manager as well as April Kroner, the Assistant County Manager for Community and Economic Development
and Hillary Seminick, the Planning Director for Gunnison County. Those will be the participants. Motion
carried unanimously.
The board went into executive session at 10:52 am.
Executive sessions of the Board of County
Commissioners are conducted as per C.R.S. 24-6-402(4). This specific session was conducted as per C.R.S.
24-6-402(4)(b).
Attorney Statement Regarding Executive Session
Pursuant to C.R.S. 24-6-402(4), I attest that I am the Gunnison County Attorney, that I represent the
Gunnison County Board of County Commissioners, that I attended all of the above referenced executive
session, that all of the executive session was confined to the topic authorized for discussion pursuant to
C.R.S. 24-6-402(4) and that, because in my opinion all of the discussion during the executive session
constituted a privileged attorney-client communication, no record of the executive session was required to
be kept and no such record was kept.
Date: __________________ ______________________________________________
Matthew Hoyt
Gunnison County Attorney
Chairperson Statement Regarding Executive Session
Pursuant to C.R.S. 24-6-402(4), I attest that I am the Chairperson of the Gunnison County Board of
Commissioners, that I attended all of the above referenced executive session, and that all of that executive
session was confined to the topic authorized for discussion pursuant to C.R.S. 24-6-402(4).
Date: __________________ ______________________________________________
Laura Puckett Daniels, Chairperson
Gunnison County Board of Commissioners
Commissioner Puckett Daniels returned to the meeting during the Executive Session.
April 7, 2026
Gunnison County Board of Commissioners - 5 -
Minutes of April 7, 2026 Regular Meeting
Approved by BOCC April 21, 2026
Moved by Commissioner Puckett Daniels, seconded by Commissioner Houck to go out of Executive Session
and that the people who were in the Executive Session were those read into the recording beforehand,
except the addition of me partway through. And that we stayed on topic throughout the Executive Session.
Motion carried unanimously. The Board came out of executive session at 12:13 pm. Commissioner Puckett
Daniels stated they would like more time to go over information, and no action will be taken today.
EXECUTIVE SESSION, PURSUANT TO C.R.S. § 24-6-402(4)(B): CONFERENCES WITH THE
COUNTY ATTORNEY, DEPUTY COUNTY ATTORNEY OR ASSISTANT COUNTY ATTORNEY FOR
GUNNISON COUNTY FOR THE PURPOSE OF RECEIVING LEGAL ADVICE RELATED TO IN RE
TREASURE MOUNTAIN RANCH, 2025CW003112: Moved by Commissioner Houck, seconded by
Commissioner Smith to enter Executive Session, pursuant to Colorado Revised Statutes § 24-6-402(4)(b):
Conferences with the County Attorney, Deputy County Attorney or Assistant County Attorney for Gunnison
County for the purpose of receiving legal advice related to In Re Treasure Mountain Ranch water
application. Included in that discussion will be all three members of the Board of County Commissioners,
the County Attorney, the County Manager, our Assistant County Manager of Community and Economic
Development, and our Planning Director as well. Motion carried unanimously.
The board went into executive session at 12:15 pm.
Executive sessions of the Board of County
Commissioners are conducted as per C.R.S. 24-6-402(4). This specific session was conducted as per C.R.S.
24-6-402(4)(b).
Attorney Statement Regarding Executive Session
Pursuant to C.R.S. 24-6-402(4), I attest that I am the Gunnison County Attorney, that I represent the
Gunnison County Board of County Commissioners, that I attended all of the above referenced executive
session, that all of the executive session was confined to the topic authorized for discussion pursuant to
C.R.S. 24-6-402(4) and that, because in my opinion all of the discussion during the executive session
constituted a privileged attorney-client communication, no record of the executive session was required to
be ke