The Ouray County Board of County Commissioners (BOCC) held a regular meeting on June 10, 2025, addressing various public health initiatives and infrastructure updates. The meeting began with discussions on the rising concerns regarding infectious diseases, particularly measles, which have been linked to international travel. Public health officials emphasized the importance of vaccinations to mitigate risks associated with both domestic and international travel.
Following the health updates, the meeting highlighted the success of the recent cleanup day in Ouray, where local staff initiated a vape disposal program. This initiative, supported by grant funding, incentivizes community members to dispose of tobacco-related vape devices by offering $25 gift cards. The program aims to address environmental concerns related to the disposal of these devices while promoting tobacco cessation.
The Women, Infants, and Children (WIC) program was also a focal point of the meeting. Officials reported on ongoing partnerships with neighboring counties to enhance service delivery for families with young children. The WIC program is currently serving 20 families in Ouray County, providing essential support such as nutrition education and food vouchers. Additionally, a Family Wellness Program has been established to assist families just above the income threshold for WIC eligibility, currently benefiting six families in the county.
Updates on community initiatives included the establishment of a community garden in Ridgeway and the provision of farmers' market vouchers to WIC families, promoting access to fresh local produce. The meeting also addressed funding secured for child safety initiatives, including swimming lessons and safety equipment for families in need.
As the meeting progressed, public health officials reminded attendees about the importance of COVID-19 vaccinations, especially with the emergence of new variants. They noted that while there are no current cases of a new variant in Southwest Colorado, vigilance remains crucial.
The meeting concluded with a brief intermission before transitioning to the road and bridge report, where Superintendent Ty Barker was set to present updates on infrastructure developments for the month of June. Overall, the meeting underscored the county's commitment to public health and community welfare through various programs and initiatives.