County manager flags aging roofs across county facilities; suggests inclusion in 2026 budget planning

County Manager Bena Genesio told Pueblo County commissioners May 8 that facility roofs across the county are reaching or exceeding their life expectancy and should be considered when commissioners set priorities for the 2026 budget.

Genesio said staff compiled a condition list that ranks roofs from worst to best and highlighted several county facilities where roof condition and public use could drive prioritization, including structures associated with the Desert Hawk Golf Course and the Sangre de Cristo Arts Center. She also noted the county shares responsibility for the animal shelter with the City of Pueblo and said the city must be included in any replacement planning for that facility.

Genesio said the roof list is intended to support long‑range planning and to help commissioners decide whether to prioritize high‑public‑traffic facilities, pursue grants, or stage replacements across multiple years. She urged commissioners to use the list as they draft budget guidance for fiscal 2026.

Action status: The item was presented as an informational briefing. Commissioners did not take formal action at the meeting and directed no immediate procurement or capital appropriation in the transcript record.

Why it matters: Roof failures can lead to interior damage that increases repair and replacement costs and can disrupt public services in county buildings. Early identification of priority roofs can help the county access grants or stage projects in a capital plan.

Next steps: Genesio suggested staff will return with proposals and cost estimates as commissioners set priorities in the upcoming budget process.