HomeMy WebLinkAbout20161245.tiff March 28, 2016
Commissioner Mike Freeman RECEIVED
Commissioner Sean P. Conway
Commissioner Julie A. Cozad APR 0 5 2016
Commissioner Barbara Kirkmeyer WELD COUNTY
Commissioner Steve Moreno COMMISSIONERS
RE: County Delays and Closures
Dear Commissioners:
As an employee of Weld County Human Services, I am concerned about the process of
deciding when to close the county or simply delay operations due to inclement weather in Weld
County. As a result of the recent blizzard in our state, the county finally decided to close at 8:38
AM and alerted staff of this information. This was after we were alerted around 7:00 AM that
there would be a delay and the county would open at 10:00 AM.
I was already at work when this notice was given. I then waited in town until the decision was
made to officially close because I live in another town. By that time, it was too late and the drive
home had already become treacherous. I live 10 miles north of my place of employment. Upon
nearly reaching home, the roads to my home were closed by this point and I was unable to
reach my destination. Because of the extremely inclement weather and lack of visibility, my
vehicle ended up off the road and myself and my 15 month old child had to be rescued by a
police officer and a Good Samaritan. My husband also had to take off work unexpectedly to help
us get to safety. We were all unable to get home until much later in the day once the storm had
passed.
I tell you my account of what occurred yesterday based on the county's late decision to close
operations because it not only put one of your employees at great risk, but then also involved a
young child. I know I am not the only employee that was affected negatively by this late
decision. I urge our county's elected officials to take action and consider making informed
decisions about county closures much earlier next time to avoid causing any possible harm to
their employees and families.
Thank you for your consideration and I look forward to your response.
Sincerely,
Melanie Liana a G �►� L-l`t"\-"
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