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Board of Equalization

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1. How do I file an appeal?

If you choose to appeal to the Board of Equalization (BOE):

• Complete and sign the back of the Notice of Determination that you received from the assessor. This entire document is the official BOE appeal petition.
• Mail or drop off the original document, plus one copy (front and back) to the BOE.
• Keep a copy for your records.

Mail or drop off petitions to:
Gunnison County Board of Equalization
200 E. Virginia Ave.
Gunnison, CO 81230

Real property petitions must be postmarked or hand delivered by 5 p.m. on July 15th.

Personal property petitions must be postmarked or hand delivered by 5 p.m. on July 20th.

Certified mail, return receipt requested, is advised.

You may submit your petition as soon as you decide to appeal, and submit all or part of your evidence, in duplicate, at a later date.

2. What must I include in my appeal?

Please be sure to include the following with your petition. Attach extra sheets, if necessary:

•Your signature: The petition is not valid without a signature.

•Your estimate of the value of your property.

•The dates and times you are unavailable to attend a hearing. Hearings will be scheduled during July and up to August 5th.

•Evidence previously submitted to the Assessor must be resubmitted to the Board of Equalization (BOE).

•A letter of agency signed by you if one of the below is true:

   •An agent is filing the petition for you

   •You do not plan to be at your hearing, but you do plan to be represented by someone who is not a relative or an attorney at law.

All documents should be submitted to the BOE in duplicate.

3. When will I receive notice of my hearing?

Because we must adhere to statutory deadlines, it may be necessary to give you short notice of your hearing date. Some taxpayers may receive as few as three days notice. It is advisable to begin preparing your case as soon as you decide to appeal. Do not wait for your hearing notice or you may not have enough time to gather evidence.

In accordance with the state’s statutory requirements, the Board of Equalization sits to hear appeals on the valuation of real property and personal property between July 1 and August 5.

Please call county administration at 970-641-0248 for a specific meeting schedule.

4. When will I receive the decision of the Board of Equalization (BOE)?

Board of Equalization (BOE) decisions will be mailed to the taxpayers within five days of rendering a decision. This decision will advise them of the outcome of their appeal. Accompanying each letter will be complete information about what options are available to further appeal the decision of the BOE and how to proceed.

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Compressed Natural Gas

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1. What about electric vehicles?

Electric passenger cars are getting better and less expensive every year, Tesla is leading the way with vehicles that can go up to 270 miles on a charge. With competition in the market and electric cars starting to be cool (there’s even an electric Corvette now!), should we just wait and go to electric?

Unfortunately, when it comes to light trucks and heavy trucks and equipment there is no real electric alternative and it is not likely to happen soon. There are some electric hybrid heavy trucks in development, but they have very narrow use because of the power limitations. There are electric buses in production, but they have limited range; the longest range buses offered now would only make two trips on the RTA route before needing to recharge for several hours.

2. Why not go electric?

Electric passenger vehicles are getting better all the time and are a great choice to lower environmental impact of transportation. However, there are no electric trucks that can meet our needs like carry a load, pull a trailer, or have a long range and in heavy vehicles like buses the range, charge times and initial cost are prohibitive.

Furthermore, the goal is to reduce greenhouse gas emissions and support our local economies. Natural gas vehicle fuels does both:

*Initially by converting to natural gas our fleet vehicles will reduce emissions significantly; 30% less CO2 and less than half of other harmful emissions like NOx.

*In the long term renewable sources of natural gas could be developed across the county. Natural gas is methane typically derived from drilling but we could develop methane harvesting in our sewage treatment, from bio-waste, and from forest products. Renewable natural gas for vehicle fuel would make the vehicles using it carbon neutral or even carbon positive because it is putting to use a greenhouse gas that otherwise would be exhausted into the atmosphere. Below are some links to more information including how the City of Grand Junction is using renewable natural gas in their CNG fleet.

http://www.afdc.energy.gov/fuels/natural_gas_renewable.html

http://energy.gov/eere/articles/city-colorado-fueling-vehicles-gas-produced-wastewater-treatment-facility

3. What is the cost?

CNG vehicles cost more than standard gas vehicles, the difference for light trucks is similar to the cost difference between a gasoline truck and a diesel truck; about $10,000. Our light trucks will be dual fuel so they can run on either CNG or gasoline so having both options is part of the cost difference, the other part of the cost difference is that CNG vehicles are a small part of the market so they don’t benefit from market competition the same way gasoline vehicles do yet.

Fuel cost savings over the life of the vehicle can offset the cost of the vehicle or conversion to CNG depending on fuel efficiency of the vehicle and miles driven. Heavy vehicles that use a lot of fuel will see the best savings. CNG retail fuel averages about $2.09/ per gasoline gallon equivalent (GGE). Fleets that are willing to sign multi-year fuel use contracts have the opportunity to negotiate that price lower and lock it in long-term. With the CNG fuel rate Gunnison County has contracted, our vehicles will pay back the initial upgrade cost in 5 years if gas prices stay at rates they are now and faster if gas prices rise. CNG cost is very stable unlike gasoline, the chart at http://www.afdc.energy.gov/fuels/prices.html illustrates fuel costs over the last decade.

4. Can vehicles be converted to CNG?

Yes there are conversions available for most light trucks and SUV’s. Not all conversions are equal, conversions that have been tested and certified will have a CARB certificate that proves that it is approved for the engine and will not violate any clean air standards that the vehicle must meet.

Ford, Chevy, and Dodge all offer CNG trucks new as well.

For heavy duty applications Cummins makes several natural gas engines and conversions are available for Isuzu and others. There are many other engine manufactures making natural gas engines and conversions as well.

5. What is the Environmental Impact?

Vehicles:

Natural gas as a vehicle fuel emits between 20-30% less CO2 than diesel.

It also reduces other emissions substantially:
Carbon Monoxide (CO) 75% less
Nitrogen Oxide (NOx) 50% less
Particulate Matter (PM) 95% less
Volatile organic compounds (VOCs) 55% less

The County’s first round of vehicles should reduce CO2 emissions by 169 tons/ per year, and that is just the start and just the County owned vehicles. In time other fleets will convert and CO2 reductions will increase.

Fracking:

CNG derived from natural gas is a fossil fuel. Most natural gas is pumped from wells that have been developed utilizing fracking but nearly all oil producing wells also produce natural gas. For years the natural gas from oil wells has been allowed to leak into the environment or been flared off. Fracking is controversial and there is good scientific studies that support both its impact and safety. Gunnison County has natural gas wells which produce gas from fracked wells. Gunnison County retains regulatory authority to permit well drilling in the County as well as monitoring wells and regulating discharges to mitigate the impact of wells. It is rare in the U.S. that a community has an opportunity to use a fuel which is produced and regulated locally. It affords us the opportunity to be mindful of the impact our energy use makes and regulate that impact. Oil, whether it is produced in the U.S. or oversees, creates and impact from its extraction to refining into gasoline and diesel fuels. That impact is far away from Gunnison County, and easy to not think about. By utilizing a fuel that is produced locally we are accepting the impact of our fuel use, regulating it, and minimizing it because it affects this place which we all are connected to. Utilizing locally derived fuels to the greatest extent possible is socially responsible and will lead to environmental conservation.

Also we can develop renewable gas sources and move away from fossil fuel use, making natural gas from wells a bridge fuel. This is not fantasy or waiting for technological advances, it is being done now in Grand Junction. Follow these links for more information:

http://energy.gov/eere/articles/city-colorado-fueling-vehicles-gas-produced-wastewater-treatment-facility

http://www.npr.org/2016/01/01/461692939/from-poop-to-power-colorado-explores-new-sources-of-renewable-energy

Gas supply:

Concerns have been raised by scientists over how much natural gas is escaping wells, leaking from pipelines, and equipment and making its way into the environment because Methane (natural gas) is a very potent greenhouse gas. There is some controversy over how much is actually leaking in the entire supply chain system from the well to the point of use. The EPA estimates 2.4%. There are several environmental organizations that cite leaks to the natural gas system, from wells to point of use, as an offset to any environmental benefits of CNG as a vehicle fuel. Those studies and opinions, however, don’t paint a full picture: First of all they make an assumption that the drilling and pipeline infrastructure are only used for vehicle fueling. The infrastructure is in place now, and it is heavily relied on in our homes and businesses so it will be in place for the foreseeable future; all impact and leaks in the natural gas supply chain cannot be laid upon CNG vehicles. Also, they assume that all vehicles would be CNG from small passenger cars to heavy trucks and they compare the impacts to those of a small electric passenger car. What we advocate is using the right fuel for the right vehicle for the right job. If you are commuting a short distance to work each day an electric car (or bike) is probably the best choice. If you are hauling 60+ people 30 miles each way on a bus and doing laps on a route all day, then electric is not an option and there is nothing even close to being ready for that kind of use, in that case or in the case of your light truck full of tools or a trailer, the most effective fuel for your vehicle environmentally is CNG. It utilizes infrastructure and supply that exists and will exist with or without CNG vehicles. The EPA is tightening restrictions on methane leakage which should reduce leaked gas and reduce the environmental impact of our natural gas supply chain.

6. Are CNG vehicles safe?

CNG vehicles must pass federal crash safety standards just like any other vehicle. Statistics show that CNG vehicles are involved in less crashes that average, this is probably due to the fact that most CNG vehicles are owned by fleets which employ driver training. CNG does not explode in a crash, natural gas has a very high ignition temperature and requires the right mix of gas and oxygen. It is less likely to catch fire or explode than gasoline in a crash.

Here are some videos of extreme abuse of CNG tanks:

CNG tank in a collision: https://youtu.be/NqH_s3YC4sE

Shooting a CNG tank: https://youtu.be/irvktfQvu4M

Dynamite a CNG tank: https://youtu.be/5ZUK-HJOfvU

7. Isn’t CNG pretty new technology? Shouldn’t we wait till it gets figured out better?

Natural gas was used as fuel in the first internal combustion engines as engines were being developed in the early 1800’s. Engineers also used gasoline, hydrogen, and propane in early engines. CNG in its modern form has been around for decades and started gaining renewed interest in the 1970’s. Adoption was slow due to low power and range of early vehicles. However, as technology has improved adoption in countries across South America, Asia, and New Zealand began to pick up in the 1990’s. Current bi-fuel (gasoline or CNG) vehicles have minimal power loss compared to gasoline and similar range and dedicated fuel CNG engines have similar power and efficiency to gas or diesel engines. The technology is well proven at this stage. More locally, the public transit system in the Roaring Fork area has put over 2 million miles on CNG buses and reports similar power to their diesel buses, and increased efficiency and less overall maintenance costs.

8. Link to Colorado Energy Office FAQ’s

https://www.colorado.gov/pacific/energyoffice/cng-faqs

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Concealed Handgun Permit

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1. Who is eligible?

Any person who is a legal resident of the State of Colorado and who is 21 years of age (18 years of age for a Temporary Emergency Permit) is eligible for a concealed handgun permit.

Also, a person who is a member of the Armed Forces and is stationed pursuant to permanent duty station orders at a military installation in the State of Colorado, and a member of the person’s immediate family is living in Colorado, is deemed a legal resident of the State of Colorado.

2. What type of handgun training is required?

You must show evidence that you attended a handgun training course, some examples include, but are not limited to:

• Evidence at the time of application that you are a Certified Handgun Instructor
• Handgun Safety Course offered by a Law Enforcement Agency, or an Institution or Organization or Handgun Training School that is open to the general public and is taught by a Certified Instructor within ten years of your application
• Law Enforcement Handgun Training Safety Course
• Proof of honorable discharge from a branch of the United States Armed Forces within three years of your application
• Proof of honorable discharge from the United States Armed Forces within ten years of your application which also reflects that you were a marksman, weapons instructor, or had recognized pistol qualifications

A Training Certificate from any class attended, or a copy thereof, must be provided with your Concealed Handgun Permit Application.

3. What is Reciprocity with CHP?

Reciprocity with a Concealed Handgun Permit is when a State recognizes a valid concealed carry permit from other States. To view which States Colorado has Reciprocity with, click here.

4. How much does the permit cost?

A Concealed Handgun Permit Application is $152.50 total:

• $100.00 for application processing
• $52.50 for the fingerprinting and FBI background check

5. What type of payment is accepted?

Accepted forms of payment: Certified Funds (Cashiers Check/Money Order), Exact Cash, or Credit Card.

Certified Funds must be made payable to the Gunnison County Sheriff’s Office for $152.50.

6. Where do I have my signature on the application witnessed?

You must sign the application in front of a Sheriff’s Office representative; therefore, you should bring your unsigned application to the Sheriff’s Office, and it will be witnessed by a Sheriff’s Office representative after you sign it and provide your driver’s license as proof of identification.

7. Do I have to get fingerprinted?

Yes, you will have to get fingerprinted. After you have turned in your permit application, arrangements will be made for you to come in and have your fingerprints taken.

8. Do I need to have my picture taken?

Yes, you will have to have your picture taken. You will be contacted after you turn in your application and arrangements will be made to have your picture taken for your permit at the Sheriff’s Office.

9. How long is the permit good for?

A permit is good for five years.

10. What if I move?

A permit holder must notify the issuing Sheriff’s Office within 30 days of moving. Failure to do so is considered a Class 1 petty offense.

11. What happens if my permit is lost / stolen / damaged?

A permit holder must notify the issuing Sheriff’s Office within three business days of the loss, theft, or destruction of a Concealed Handgun Permit. Failure to do so is considered a Class 1 petty offense.

12. I am a resident of the State of Colorado, yet I have a permit from another state, is my permit good in the State of Colorado?

No. Per legislation signed into law by Governor Ritter in May 2007, if you are a resident of the State of Colorado (i.e., have a Colorado Driver’s License or ID card) and possess a permit from another state, that permit is no longer valid in the State of Colorado. You would have to check the issuing state to see if it is still valid in other states.

If you want to carry a concealed handgun, you must apply for a Concealed Handgun Permit from the State of Colorado.

13. Is my name entered into any kind of database if I am a Concealed Handgun Permit holder in the State of Colorado?

Yes. If you possess a Concealed Handgun Permit from the State of Colorado, your name and other identifying information will be entered into the Colorado Crime Information Computer (CCIC). It will be accessible only by law enforcement and cannot be shared with anyone outside of law enforcement (i.e., the general public or the media).

This database is not used for compilation purposes (facts, figures, or lists); it is similar to how a driver’s license is entered into a State of Colorado database and is necessary for use in law enforcement situations.

14. Where can I get more questions answered before or after I have my permit?

You may visit the Colorado Bureau of Investigation website for pertinent carrying a concealed weapon information.

If you don’t find the answers you need, please feel free to call the Gunnison County Sheriff’s Office at 970-641-1113.

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Default

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1. How do I contact a city/county department?

Visit the Staff Directory to find all department and staff contact information.

2. Where can I find the answers to my frequently asked questions?

Use the FAQs module to easily find answers to the questions you ask the most.

3. What are the requirements for becoming a resident of Colorado?

If you own or operate a business in Colorado or, are gainfully employed in Colorado, or reside in Colorado for 90 consecutive days you are a resident of Colorado. After becoming a resident of Colorado you must register your vehicle within 90 days or you will be imposed vehicle registration late fees.

4. How do I set up utilities in my name?

Gunnison County sewer and water bills are attached to the real property served. Generally, owner billing information is obtained from a general warranty deed during the closing process. Please call Finance at 970-641-2203 to verify that this has taken place, especially if you did not utilize a closing company during the purchase of your property.

If you are a renter, Gunnison County only allows property owners to change the billing responsibility since unpaid sewer and water bills have the potential to become tax liens upon the property. Please have the legal owner contact Finance at 970-641-2203 for additional information.

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Finance Program

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1. Can I pay my bill by phone?

For security reasons, Finance will not accept forms of payment via phone. However, you may pay your bill online via our secure website.

2. What is the sales tax rate for Gunnison County?

1%. County sales taxes are administered by the State of Colorado. For more information about sales, use and marketing taxes, please click here.

3. Where can I find Gunnison County's Central Purchasing Office?

Gunnison County does not have a centralized purchasing office. Purchase decisions are made at the department level. If you are offering a product or service, please feel free to contact the specific department(s) relevant to your product or service.

4. How do I set up utilities in my name?

Gunnison County sewer and water bills are attached to the real property served. Generally, owner billing information is obtained from a general warranty deed during the closing process. Please call Finance at 970-641-2203 to verify that this has taken place, especially if you did not utilize a closing company during the purchase of your property.

If you are a renter, Gunnison County only allows property owners to change the billing responsibility since unpaid sewer and water bills have the potential to become tax liens upon the property. Please have the legal owner contact Finance at 970-641-2203 for additional information.

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Human Services Foster Care Program

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1. Does Gunnison County need foster families?

The Gunnison County Foster Care Program is actively recruiting new foster parents. Currently there is a need to increase the amount of families willing and able to take children and adolescents into their care for both short-term and long-term foster care. Our program is seeking people that are committed to helping our community care for children and youth.

2. How frequently are children and youth placed into foster care?

In 2010, 22 children and youth were placed in the Gunnison County Foster Care Program for short or long term care. Depending on the need, sometimes foster families will have frequent placements; other times there may be lengths of time in which a foster family may not have a placement.

3. What types of kids come into foster care?

Our program serves children 0 - 18 and in special circumstances up to age 21. There is no “typical” child or youth that comes into foster care.

Our program is seeking foster families to help us prepare for the entire spectrum need. We need foster homes that will take the following:

• Adolescents who are involved in the juvenile diversion - we are seeking a therapeutic youth foster homes
• Children with special needs - i.e. medical, educational, developmental, social, and emotional
• Infants / toddlers
• Sibling groups
• Young children and school age children
• Youth and adolescents

4. Can I / we adopt through the Gunnison County Foster Care Program?

Our program licenses individuals and families that are interested in fostering and adopting. We are not an adoption agency and therefore do not license families for adoption only. If you are willing and able to foster, knowing that the primary goal of foster parenting is reunification with the biological family, there is a chance that becoming a foster-adoptive parent is right for you.

5. What if I / we can only take a certain type of child into the home?

Creating a successful match between child and foster family is a collaborative process that begins with the foster family setting the terms of what ages and types of children they are able to care for. It is always up to the foster family to choose their limits and boundaries around the age and need of the child. Before placing a child in the home, our department will already have a clear idea of what child or youth would be a good match for your family and lifestyle because of the safe home study process.

6. What is a safe home study?

The safe home study is a series of structured interviews and a home inspection that determines if an individual or family is appropriate to become a licensed foster home. A safe study evaluates a family’s ability to care for children and to provide a safe and nurturing home. Normally, this process is conducted over a series of at least four visits to the prospective foster family home.

7. How long do kids normally stay in foster care?

Each case is different, but there are state statutes that guide the process. Children under the age of 6 that enter foster care are mandated for an expedited permanency, meaning that our department is mandated to identify a permanent home within six months of entering foster care.Generally speaking, children can be in foster care for one night, or even a few years - depending on the case and what is in the best interest of the child. The focus of foster care is to assist in providing safety on the child or youth’s journey to permanence.

8. Can I choose to do short or long term care?

Yes, you can choose to do short or long term care. We are looking for families who are interested in providing short and long term foster care. Short term could be over night up to a few months. Long term care generally refers to over a year.

9. How do I become a Foster parent?

Contact the Foster Care Coordinator at 970-641-3244.

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IT

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1. How do I check my email online using webmail?

To access Gunnison County webmail, Click here

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Main

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1. How do I contact a city/county department?

Visit the Staff Directory to find all department and staff contact information.

2. Where can I find the answers to my frequently asked questions?

Use the FAQs module to easily find answers to the questions you ask the most.

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Motor Vehicle

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1. Is a newly purchased vehicle subject to vehicle registration late fees?

A newly purchased vehicle is subject to vehicle registration late fees 61 days after the purchase date.

2. How much and when are vehicle registration late fees imposed?

Vehicle registration late fees are imposed when payment for renewing your vehicle is not received timely. With the exception of temporary permits, owners receive a one month grace period after their registration expires. Then, the $25-per-month late fee applies to any portion of the subsequent months for up to four months. The total amount assessed will not exceed the $100 late fee limit.
Effective July 1, 2010, the late fee will be $10 for vehicles without motive power that weigh 16,000 pounds or less, that are subject to taxation, and that are not registered when required by law. The weight of a trailer of any kind is the empty weight. C.R.S. 42-3-112(1.7)
Vehicles without motive power include trailers, camper trailers, trailer coaches, multipurpose trailers and special mobile machinery without motive power.
Late fees accrued prior to July 1, 2010 will be included in the late fee assessed on or after July 1, 2010, however the total amount assessed will not exceed the $100 late fee limit.
Example: Transaction date is July 15, 2010. Customer’s registration for a 14,000 pound trailer expired January 2010 with a one month grace of February 2010. The late fee due is $100. This includes $25 each month for the months of March, April, May and June and $10 for July, but the late fee is still limited to $100.
Example: Transaction date is July 15, 2010. Customer’s registration for a camper trailer expired February 2010 with a one month grace of March 2010. The late fee due is $85. This includes $25 each month for the months of April, May and June and $10 for July.

3. Are there exceptions to the vehicle registration late fees?

There are instances when the registration late fees may be waived.
If the owner of a vehicle who is active in the military serving outside Colorado when the registration grace period expires and the vehicle has not been operated on any public highway in Colorado between the time the registration period expired, including the grace period and the time the vehicle is registered.
If a vehicle is used to operate a commercial business as part of the normal operation of the business is exempt late fees if the vehicle has not been operated on any public highway in Colorado for one full registration period.
If a vehicle was reported as stolen and then recovered.
The $10 late fee is not eligible for the late fee waiver or reduction authorized pursuant to HB10-1212, except for commercial vehicle trailers and farm vehicle trailers. See commercial definitions example and C.R.S. 42-3-112(1,5)(b) for additional details. C.R.S. 42-1-102(17.5) “Commercial Vehicle” means a vehicle used to transport cargo or passengers for profit, hire, or otherwise to further the purposes of a business or commercial enterprise.
Example: Transaction date is July 20, 2010. Registration of a commercial trailer expired February 2010 with a one month grace of March 2010. The late fee due is $85. This includes $25 each month for the months of April, May and June and $10 for the month of July.
The $10 late fee may be reduced or waived on this commercial trailer independently if it has not been operated on the roads for one full registration period.

4. What are the fees to register and title my vehicles?

Fees to title and register vehicles in the State of Colorado are based on age of the vehicle, weight, taxable value, purchase date, and type of plate requested. Estimates for registration fees are not provided over the phone. Some counties provide information on their website. Once you have accessed the appropriate county, click on Motor Vehicle and then click on fees. Counties use this equation to estimate your registration fees. Otherwise, you will need to go to your local county motor vehicle office to obtain this information.

5. I have a Handicapped Disabled Veteran plate from another State. What do I need to get one in Colorado? Do I have to re-qualify?

Yes, you would need to re-qualify in Colorado. The requirements of this type of plate are different in each state. Colorado statutes require the applicant to provide verification from the Veteran's Administration that they meet one of the following requirements:
Permanent disability, service connected, rated at 50% or more,
Loss or permanent loss of use of one or both feet,
Loss or permanent loss of use of one or both hands,
Loss of sight in both eyes, and
physical impairment verified in writing by a physician licensed to practice medicine in Colorado.
AND,
form DR 2219,
A written verification of the applicant's mobility restrictions which must be confirmed by one of the following individuals:
Colorado physician (must be licensed to practice medicine in this state).
The Director of the Division of Rehabilitation.
Commissioned Medical Officers of the U. S. Armed Forces, the U.S. Public Health Service and/or the U.S. Veterans Administration.

6. What information do I need to submit for the no-fee Purple Heart license plate?

Please provide a copy of either your military discharge DD Form 214, copy of formal orders showing award of the Purple Heart medal, or a copy of the certificate for the award of the Purple Heart medal. Also a copy of either your Colorado title, Colorado registration, Colorado title complete notices, or Colorado title receipt. Proof of insurance on your vehicle. And if applicable, a copy of your current emissions report.

7. My spouse who was a military veteran is recently deceased and had been given a no-fee Disabled Veteran license plate. Will I be allowed to keep those?

Unfortunately, no. The spouse of the veteran must obtain regular license plates and pay all appropriate fees at their county motor vehicle office.

8. I paid registration fees before I got my free veteran plates. Can I receive a refund of these fees?

Refunds are issued at the discretion of each county clerk and recorder. The Colorado Motor Vehicle Statutes and the State Division of Motor Vehicles DO NOT establish refund procedures.

9. How do I transfer Disabled Veteran (D/V) license plates to a newly purchased vehicle?

If the Disabled Veteran license plate was issued by your County Motor Vehicle office please visit that office with one of the following ownership documents:
The Certificate of Title for the new vehicle or
Title complete notice for the new vehicle.
If the Disabled Veteran license plate was issued by the Division of Motor Vehicles, Registration Section as an exempt license plate please submit the following ownership documents.

The Certificate of Title in the name of the disabled veteran for the new vehicle (if applying in person); or
A photocopy of the title for the new vehicle; or
Copy of the DR 2574, computer generated title application for the new vehicle; or
Copy of the registration/title receipt providing the title information has previously been submitted to the State Title Section.
A copy of the current registration for the vehicle for which the D/V plates are being transferred from.
Proof of insurance and Secure and Verifiable Identification Document (SVID) are required. Please do not fax or mail a copy of your SVID. Complete the DR 2842 Supplemental Secure and Verifiable Identification Information and Attestation Clause form.
Proof of emission may be required depending on the county of residence and the vehicles’ year of manufacture.
Documents may be submitted:

In person: By Mail:
Department of Revenue Vehicle Services Unit 1881 Pierce Street Lakewood, CO 80214 Title and Registration Section PO Box 17350 Denver, CO 80217-3350
By Fax (303)205-5978

10. How do I register my Low-Power Scooter?

The applicant must present to the Division of Motor Vehicles, Registration Section or an authorized Low-Power Scooter Dealer the following:

DR 2579 Application for Low-Power Scooter Registration.
Manufacturer's Statement of Origin (MSO), Bill of Sale, or an affidavit stating legal ownership and date of purchase signed under penalty of perjury or notarized.
Registration fee as listed on the DR 2579 Application for Low-Power Scooter Registration.
Applications not completed by an authorized Low-Power Scooter Dealer may either be mailed or presented in person at the addresses below.

In person: By Mail:
Department of Revenue Vehicle Services Unit 1881 Pierce Street Lakewood, CO 80214 Title and Registration Section PO Box 17350 Denver, CO 80217-3350

11. Do I need to have a driver's license to drive a Low-Power Scooter?

Yes, an operator of a Low-Power Scooter shall possess a valid driver's license or minor driver's license.

12. Am I required to have insurance for my Low-Power Scooter?

Effective July 1, 2010 all Low-Power Scooters shall have a complying motor vehicle insurance policy pursuant to part 6 of article 4 of title 10, C.R.S., or a certificate of self-insurance in full force and effect as required by section 10-4-619 and 10-4-624 C.R.S. Low-Power Scooters shall not be registered on or after July 1, 2010 without proof of complying motor vehicle insurance policy and payment of the Motorist Insurance Identification Fee. Non-compliance is a misdemeanor traffic offense with a minimum penalty for such offense is a $500.00 fine and that the maximum penalty for such offense is one year's imprisonment and a $1,000.00 fine.

13. I submitted my application for a personalized license plate. What is the process for this?

Your application will be submitted for approval, if approved you will receive a notification for payment. Upon receipt of payment your plate will be placed on order to be made. Generally it takes 6 to 8 weeks for plates to be sent to your county motor vehicle office. Your county office will in turn notify you by mail upon receipt of your plate. If your choice(s) are rejected you will receive a notice stating the reason(s) why.

14. I have an antique vehicle and would like to use the original plates manufactured in that year. How do I apply?

An original plate shall meet the following criteria in order to qualify for use of the plate:

The plates were made at least thirty years prior to registration,
The plates are embossed with the year of original issue,
The plates are legible,
The plates were issued contemporaneously with the year of manufacture of the vehicle upon which they are displayed and,
The plates do not exceed seven characters.
Your vehicle must have been manufactured at least thirty years prior to registration. It will first be required to have a regular registration issued, such as a Horseless Carriage, Collector, or Street Rod series license plate. The vehicle must be insured. The applicant must sign and date the declaration statement in form DR 2818. Also, please submit a photocopy of the license plate when applying.

15. Which Title and Registration transactions require Secure and Verifiable ID?

New Titles
Duplicate Titles
New Registrations
New Temporary Registration Permits
New Placards

16. What are the requirements for becoming a resident of Colorado?

If you own or operate a business in Colorado or, are gainfully employed in Colorado, or reside in Colorado for 90 consecutive days you are a resident of Colorado. After becoming a resident of Colorado you must register your vehicle within 90 days or you will be imposed vehicle registration late fees.

17. How do I change my address on my vehicle registration?

You will need to go to the County Motor Vehicle Office in the county where the vehicle is to be registered to change the address on your vehicle record within 30 days of the new address becoming effective. Identification documents will be required.

18. Can my plates be transferred to my new vehicle?

Yes, the transfer of license plates from one vehicle to another meets the following criteria:
One owner must be consistent on both vehicle registrations.
Vehicle must be eligible for the plate configuration being transferred.

19. Does The State of Colorado title and register trailers?

The State of Colorado titles and registers ALL trailers. Title applications for trailers have the same requirements as applications for other vehicles. Trailer MSOs that are not on secure paper are not acceptable with the following two exceptions: 1. Trailer MSOs from any person who only manufactures trailers that weigh less than two thousand pounds and does not manufacture any other type of motor vehicle. and/or 2. Trailer MSOs from any person, other than a manufacturer operating a dealership (or as a dealer) pursuant to section 12-6-120.5 C.R.S. who is a licensed dealer selling motor vehicles that such person has manufactured.

20. Are sample Colorado license plates available to license plate collectors or for purchase?

No, Colorado law does not allow for the provision of sample plates for sale.

21. How do I register a vehicle from out of state?

Title or current out of state registration.
Vin Inspection - from Colorado Law enforcement (Sheriff or Police office) or a Licensed Colorado Automotive dealer.
Proof of Insurance.
Driver's License.

22. What do I need to Register my vehicle?

If the vehicle was titled in another state a VIN verification must be completed.
Title assigned in owner's name or current out of state registration.
Secure and Verifiable Identification Information
Proof of Colorado Vehicle Emissions (if applicable)
Gasoline
Diesel
Proof Of Insurance:
Registration of your vehicle(s) may be denied or delayed if the Colorado Motor Vehicle Registration file does not show insurance coverage for the vehicle(s). You must provide any of these forms of proof to your county motor vehicle office before you can register your vehicle(s). For more information, please view Rule 46. Application for Registration- Proof of Insurance.
Forms of Proof:
Insurance card
Copy of your insurance policy
A letter from your insurance company (on company letterhead)
Computer printout from insurer.
Facsimile of the proof of insurance.
Electronic proof of insurance that is not otherwise available to the department. This may be, but is not limited to, insurer provided electronic image/proof on applicant’s cellular phone, lap top, or other portable type of electronic device.
If web-based services are available, the department may use applicant’s insurer provided web-based services for proof of insurance.
Electronic mail sent from the applicant’s insurer.

23. How are registration fees calculated?

Fees are based on the empty weight and type of vehicle being registered.
Additional fees may be collected based on county of residence and license plate selected.

24. What are Ownership Taxes?

These taxes are based on the year of manufacture of the vehicle and the original taxable value which is determined when the vehicle is new and does not change throughout the life of the vehicle.
Ownership tax is in lieu of personal property tax. Vehicles do not need to be operated in order to be assessed this tax.
The ownership tax rate is assessed on the original taxable value and year of service
Original taxable value is 85% of manufacturer's suggested retail price (MSRP).
The annual specific ownership tax is based on the year of service.

25. Special Mobile Machinery Definitions

“Special Mobile Machinery” means machinery that is pulled, hauled, or driven over a highway and is either; a vehicle or equipment that is not designed primarily for the transportation of persons or cargo over the public highways; or a motor vehicle that may have been originally designed for the transportation of persons or cargo over the public highways, and has been redesigned or modified by the addition of mounted equipment or machinery, and is only incidentally operated or moved over the public highways. Special mobile machinery includes vehicles commonly used in the construction, maintenance, and repair of roadways, the drilling of wells, and the digging of ditches. C.R.S. 42-1-102(93.5)
“Mounted Equipment” means any item weighing more than five hundred pounds that is permanently mounted on a vehicle, including mounting by means such as welding or bolting the equipment to a vehicle. C.R.S. 42-1-102(60)
“Power Takeoff Equipment (PTO)” means equipment that is attached to a motor vehicle and is powered by the motor that powers the locomotion of the motor vehicle. C.R.S. 42-1-102(72.2)

26. Items Required to Register SMM

Complete a SMM Vehicle Information Worksheet. This form will aid the County Clerk in determining how the SMM will be registered. (Please note that Sales Tax will be collected prior to completing the SMM registration if it has not been previously collected.) For SMM required to be titled and registered the following documents will be required Title, MSO, Bill of Sale, Invoice or Statement of Fact, and; VIN Verification, and; Secure and Verifiable Identification SMM required to be registered): Bill of Sale, Invoice or Statement of Fact, and; Secure and Verifiable Identification SMM Title and Registration Tool

27. Tax Classes Defined

Class A includes motor vehicles and trailers used in interstate commercial business to carry people or property
Class B includes motor vehicles and trailers used in intrastate business to carry people or property, light trucks and recreational trucks for personal use that are not included in Class A
Class C includes motor vehicles not included in Classes A and B (largely passenger vehicles)
Class D includes utility, camper trailers, trailer-coaches and multi-purpose trailers Class F includes every item of special mobile machinery, except power takeoff equipment. If a farm tractor meets the definition of special mobile machinery,

28. Special Mobile Machinery (SMM) 2% Rental Program

The Special Mobile Machinery (SMM) 2% Rental Program is an alternative payment program allowing Colorado SMM companies who rent or lease SMM, for at least 30 days in a calendar year, to pay the Ownership Tax on 2% of the rental or lease amount rather than paying the Ownership Tax for a full year. Application must be made at the county in which the SMM is located to participate in this program.
SMM that is enrolled in the 2% Rental Program is required to be registered with the SMM registration and the SMM rental decal expiring concurrently. Evidence of the SMM registration will be with the SMM license plate or the SMM ownership decal. The SMM rental decal shall not evidence SMM registration. SMM participating in the 2% Rental Program is required to display the SMM license plate or SMM ownership decal and the SMM rental decal.

29. Additional Information for Special Mobile Machinery (SMM)

Late Fees and Penalties - Failure to register SMM may result in:

The assessment of a late fee
The assessment of an administrative penalty
Detained or impounding of SMM with the Colorado Port of Entry
SMM equipment is eligible for Temporary Registration Permits.

Newly established businesses that own SMM should contact the Secretary of State for business requirements. The Department of Revenue, Division of Motor Vehicle or County Clerks cannot provide information or assistance on this topic.

30. How do I apply for a duplicate title?

Apply for a duplicate title when your original motor vehicle certificate of title is:
Illegible
Lost
Stolen
Mutilated
Altered
Residents Must Provide:
Duplicate Title Request and Receipt
Secure and Verifiable Identification for vehicles purchased on or after 7/1/2006
The vehicle identification number (VIN) and/or Colorado title number
$8.20 for a duplicate title fee
A power of attorney when applying on behalf of the owner of record
A lien release is required for all active liens. The lien release must be on the lienholder's letterhead (letterhead is not required if lienholder is an individual). Photo and fax copies are accepted and must include vehicle year, make, VIN, titled owner's name(s), agent's signature, date of lien release and must be signed under penalty of perjury in the second degree as defined in C.R.S. 18-8-503. The duplicate title will be issued omitting all reference to the lien pursuant to C.R.S. 42-6-126.

Apply for a duplicate title at your county motor vehicle office.

31. What is ELT?

The Electronic Lien and Title Program is a method by which the State of Colorado, Department of Revenue, Division of Motor Vehicles and lending institutions (lienholders) can exchange vehicle and title information electronically. Please click here for a guide to the Colorado ELT program

32. How does ELT work?

The State transmits essential identifying information electronically to an approved Service Provider who communicates with the lienholder thus eliminating the need to print and mail paper titles. Once the lien has been satisfied, the lienholder notifies the Service Provider who sends an electronic message releasing the title at which point the State prints and mails a paper title to the vehicle owner, or a third party designated by the lienholder.

33. Lien Filing

Lien filing is handled at the county motor vehicle office in the county where the vehicle is located. Lien extensions are processed at the local county clerk's office. Lien filing is for ten years except for multipurpose trailers, trailer coaches, truck tractors, manufactured homes and motor homes that are subject to maturity dates designated by the lienholder.

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On-Site Wastewater Treatment System (OWTS)

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1. What do I do if I need a septic system?

Contact the Environmental Health Office at 970-641-5105 for an On-Site Wastewater Treatment System (OWTS) Permit Application. Once the application is completed and submitted, we will do an inspection of your site to insure the system can be constructed in compliance with Colorado and county regulations and that soil and ground water conditions are satisfactory for a septic system. Once your septic system has been constructed by a licensed septic system contractor, we will perform an inspection to insure that the contractor constructed the system to meet current regulations.

2. What do I do if my septic system is failing?

If your septic system is failing, contact the Environmental Health Office at 970-641-5105. We will meet with you onsite to on assess the possible causes for failure and advise you on how the system can be repaired and brought into compliance with Colorado and County current regulations. We can also provide you with the list of licensed septic system contractors. Then, a Repair Permit is required before beginning any system upgrade.

3. Why is it necessary to have my septic tank pumped?

The cost of a septic system is a major investment. To protect that investment and prolong the life of your system, it is necessary to have the septic tank pumped out. Since all solids in your household wastewater settle out in the tank, it's important to have the tank pumped to avoid having sludge block the pipes that allows the liquids to move on to the leach field for filtration. Failure to routinely pump the septic tank may result in the clogging of your leach field and cause a premature malfunction of the system.

4. What kind of information needs to be considered in planning a new residential subdivision that will use septic systems for sewage disposal?

Site conditions that affect the operation of individual sewage disposal systems include the types of soils that are present, depth to the groundwater table, depth to bedrock and the presence of surface water such as lakes or irrigation ditches. With a thorough knowledge of site conditions, subdivisions can be designed to take advantage of the best soils for treating sewage while avoiding problem conditions such as high groundwater or irrigation ditches. Some of the options used in the subdivision design process include clustering, variations in lot size, and creation of open space in areas not suitable for septic systems.

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Palliative Care

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1. What kinds of cases could benefit from palliative care?

• Recurrent hospital admissions for advanced illnesses, such as COPD and heart failure
• Difficult symptom management compromising the patient’s ability to continue treatment
• Conflict among patient and family regarding illness management or treatment course
• Lack of response to curative therapies and changing goals of care
• Consideration of hospice care
• Spiritual distress and loss of hope

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Public Health

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1. When are the immunization clinics?

Childhood vaccines for ages 0-18 are held every Tuesday in Gunnison and the first Wednesday of the month in Crested Butte. Call 970-641-3244 to make an appointment.

2. When are the immunization clinics?

Childhood vaccines for ages 0-18 are held every Tuesday in Gunnison and first Wednesday of the month in Crested Butte. Call 970-641-3244 to make an appointment.

3. How do I get a medical care voucher?

Vouchers are available for children, as of May 3, 2013 we have depleted our funding for this program for adult services. We have applied for additional grant funds. Also beginning January, 2014 through the Affordable Care Act, Medicaid will be expanding and may be another resource for access to health care for low income individuals. Assistance to get on the expanded Medicaid is being developed through Human Services. Vouchers for children include primary, mental health, dental, and vision care. Call Public Health at 970-641-3244 for more information on qualifying. A limited number of vouchers are available

4. How do I get birth control?

Family planning services and testing are available through appointment in Public Health for women and men, please call 970-641-3244 to make an appointment. All appointments are strictly confidential.
Cost for services based on an income dependent sliding fee scale.

5. Where do I get a birth certificate?

If the person was born in Colorado they can be obtained locally in Public Health

6. How do I apply for Medicaid or Childrens Health Plans+(CHP+)?

Visit www.colorado.gov/PEAK to apply.

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Public Trustee

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1. When are foreclosure sales held?

Wednesday of every week at 10:00 am.

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Senior Happenings

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1. Do you have an event you’d like to see included on our website? Do you have an idea for an activity or event that you’d like to see offered or can lead or teach?

Just email us and we'll be happy to contact you!

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Treasurer's Office

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1. When are property taxes due?

Half-payment option due dates are February 28th and June 15th. Full-payment option due date is April 30th.

2. When are property tax bills sent out?

Bills are sent out in January of every year.

3. How do I change my billing address?

Contact the Assessor's Office at 970-641-1085.

4. How do I add, remove or change a name on my property?

The title on property can be changed only by a recorded deed which you must take to the County Recording Office before the Assessor’s and Treasurer's records can be modified to reflect any changes. The County Recording Office is located in the Blackstock Government Building 221 N. Wisconsin St. Suite C Gunnison, CO 81230.

5. Do you accept phone payments?

Not at this time.

6. Why are my property taxes so high?

You will need to contact the Assessor's Office at 970-641-1085 to discuss this.

7. Can I pay my property taxes with a credit card?

Yes you may, through a company we outsource through and they accept online payments only, no phone payments. To do this, go to the home page of the Gunnison County website, and towards the middle of the page there will be a green bar with a list of different services and you will see "Online Payments" there. Click on it and it will take you to the website.

Please make sure you have your account number handy and the exact amount you are paying. If you are not sure what that amount is please call our office.

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Water Quality

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1. Who regulates and monitors water supply wastewater treatment facilities in Gunnison County?

Central wastewater treatment plants and community water systems of municipalities, special districts, and private operations are regulated by the Colorado Department of Public Health and Environment Water Quality Control Division.

2. What's a Storm Water Discharge Permit and who has to get one?

The Colorado Water Quality Control Division oversees storm water permitting and regulation.