Pueblo County is set to enhance its community engagement and grant-seeking efforts following a productive Board of County Commissioners (BOCC) work session on April 6, 2025. The meeting focused on refining the county's mission and vision statements, which will serve as a foundation for future strategic planning and project implementation.

Commissioners discussed the importance of community input in the grant application process, acknowledging past challenges due to a lack of clear guidelines. With the assistance of local students, the county has developed actionable plans that will enable them to pursue grant funding more effectively. This initiative aims to empower the community and ensure that future projects align with the needs and aspirations of residents.

A significant portion of the meeting was dedicated to evaluating the current mission and vision statements. Commissioners expressed a desire for language that reflects accountability and ambition, with some advocating for a vision that positions Pueblo County as a national model of effective governance. The discussion highlighted the need for measurable outcomes to ensure that the mission is not just aspirational but also actionable.

The board reached a consensus on a revised mission statement that emphasizes community empowerment and future generations. They also agreed to simplify the vision statement by removing the term "national," focusing instead on being a model for local governance. This change aims to alleviate pressure while still striving for excellence in service delivery.

Looking ahead, the commissioners plan to develop value statements that will guide specific projects and initiatives. These will be tracked through a dashboard to monitor progress and ensure accountability. The next steps involve finalizing these statements and determining how they will be integrated into the county's strategic goals.

As Pueblo County moves forward with these initiatives, the emphasis on community involvement and measurable outcomes is expected to strengthen local governance and enhance the quality of life for residents.