Rio Grande County

09/02/2026

The Stage 1 Fire Restriction Order dated July 30, 2026 will be rescinded effective at 12:01 a.m. on Tuesday, September 1, 2026.

08/24/2026

08/24/2026

Due to a tragic event involving a Rio Grande County Clerk employee, the Clerks' Office will be closed Monday August 24, 2026.

08/17/2026

08/04/2026

Agenda for BOCC Meeting 8/5/2026

07/30/2026

07/22/2026

Rio Grande County Residents,

The Board of County Commissioners (BOCC) will continue the discussion on Data Centers next Tuesday in a work session beginning at 8:30 AM in the County Annex, 965 6th Street in Del Norte (co-located with the County Clerk & Recorder's Office).


The purpose is to discuss the data center issues in depth, including already-expressed concerns regarding water, electrical demand, noise, electromagnetic field (EMG) exposure, and other environmental impacts. The session is intended to be a thoughtful, deliberate, and fact-based discussion to develop options and a framework for remedies that fall within the Commissioners' authority, such as a moratorium.


The BOCC appreciates those residents who provided public comment during today's weekly BOCC meeting. As expressed by Commissioner Ratzlaff, the BOCC does not support the construction of any data centers in Rio Grande County or the San Luis Valley that threaten our water, health and safety, or our beautiful environment. What is unknown to most of the residents who provided comments today is that, over the past several weeks, the Commissioners have been researching the issue, having discussions with residents and other stakeholders, and attending other forums (e.g., South Fork Planning & Zoning meeting) to gather information and gain a sense of the broader public sentiment. This is all part of the public policy development process, which may take longer than some would like. Next Tuesday's work session is a continuation of the process, and the BOCC welcomes any resident who is able to attend.


This work session is for information sharing and discussion only. No decisions will be made, and the session will not be recorded. The work session is open to the public. Comments are requested to be provided in writing in advance of the meeting. Please submit written comments to [email protected] by Monday, July 27, 2026. Residents may join virtually using the Google Meet link included in the calendar event on the Rio Grande County website (www.riograndecounty.org)