SAN JUAN COUNTY, COLORADO BOARD OF COMMISSIONERS TOWN OF SILVERTON BOARD OF TRUSTEES MEETING AGENDA May 28, 2025 CALL TO ORDER: 6:30 P.M. BOCC Meeting Minutes for May 14, 2025 APPOINTMENTS 6:35 P.M. - Rusty Melcher, Road Supervisor Correspondence: Dustin Eldredge County Wildfire Crew Gloria Kaasch-Buerger - Town of Silverton Clarification Hillary Cable - Anvil Mountain NACO - Economic Trends in Public Lands Counties Public Comment Commissioner and Staff Reports Other Adjourn Times listed above are approximate. Discussion of an agenda item may occur before or after the assigned time. Next Regular Meeting June 11, 2025 8:30 A.M. Join Zoom Meeting .o.w1924730N By Telephone: Dial 1 669-900-6833 and enter the Webinar ID 92136473203 when prompted. Meeting ID: 921 3647 3203 You Tube (live and recorded for later viewing, does not support public comment): htpsy/Awwwyoutube.c/@smilunsountycoloradostreams SAN JUAN COUNTY BOARD OF COMMISSIONERS REGULAR MEETING WEDNESDAY, May 14, 2025 AT 6:30 P.M. Call to Order: The meeting was called to order by Chairman Austin Lashley. Present were Commissioners Scott Fetchenhier and Pete Maisel, County Attorney Dennis Golbricht and Administrator William Tookey. Payment of Bills: Commissioner Maisel moved to authorize payment oft the warrants as presented. Commissioner Fetchenhier seconded the motion. The motion passed unanimously. Minutes: Commissioner Fetchenhier moved to approve the minutes of April 23, 2025, as presented. Commissioner Maisel seconded the motion. The motion passed unanimously. Social Services Director Martha Johnson was present via Zoom to provide the Commissioners with an update. Commissioner Fetchenhier moved to approve Transmittal #3 in the amount of$10,746.79. Commissioner Maisel seconded the motion. The motion passed unanimously. The Colorado Department ofHuman Services MOU-Annual Reaffirmation was presented to the Commissioners for their consideration. Commissioner Fetchenhier moved to approve the MOU as submitted. Commissioner Maisel seconded the motion. The motion passed unanimously. The Treasurer' S monthly report was presented to the Commissioners for their review. The May sales tax report was presented to the Commissioners for their review. A Public Hearing was held for the Silver Cloud Lodge PUD Final Plan submitted by Colbey Barrett representing the Bonanza Boy LLC. Upon completion of the Public Hearing and discussion by the Commissioners, staff and applicant, Commissioner Maisel moved to approve the Silver Cloud Lodge PUD with the following conditions: 1 That the applicant acknowledges that emergency services will not be available in a timely manner and perhaps not at all. 2 All improvements to the Bonanza Boy LLC PUD shall fully and completely comply with, and strictly conform to, all terms, conditions and restrictions contained in the San Juan County Zoning and Land Use Regulation, permits issued, and all applicable State and Federal rules and regulations including wetlands and access. 3 The appliçant shall fully and completely comply with the San Juan County Zoning and Land Use Regulation 4-110 Design and Development Standards for all Improvement and Use Permits. 4 That the applicant fully and completely comply with the Silver Cloud Resort Avalanche Safety Plan. San Juan County retains the right to require that the Safety Plan be amended as necessary in order to address safety issues that may arise or become apparent after approval. 5 That the applicant provides documentation annually that they have complied with and continue to comply with Sections 5, 6 and 7 of the Silver Cloud Resort Avalanche Safety Plan. San Juan County retains the right to require that the Safety Plan be amended as necessary in order to address safety issues that may arise or become apparent after approval. 6 That the project is in compliance with Section 7-120 Air Quality as it pertains to wood burning devices. The exception would be to allow for the addition of 3 woodstoves in the employee housing for emergency use only and 1 additional woodstove in a guest room for emergency use only. 7 If any historic artifacts are discovered on site during the excavation or construction, the work at that specific location of the project will be stopped immediately until the Historic Review Committee or qualified archeologist can visit the site to document and preserve those artifacts. 8 That an affordable housing agreement be negotiated as required by 7-112.8A of the Zoning and Land Use Regulations. 9 That the proposed vacation rental cabins located on the Mountain Chief Mill Site are upgraded to be in compliance with County, State and Federal Regulations as necessary, including woodstoves, septic and water. 10 That the applicant create and enforce a policy to inform guests, employees and contractors that they need to respect the area wildlife. Dogs and other pets must be controlled SO that they do not harass or harm wildlife. 11 The applicant hereby agrees to enter into an Indemnification Agreement provided by San Juan County, binding upon Applicant and all successors and assigns. 12 The failure to comply with these conditions shall be grounds for the revocation of this approval and for any future Improvement Permits. Commissioner Lashley seconded the motion. The motion passed with Commissioners Maisel and Lashley voting yes and Commissioner Fetchenhier voting no. San Juan National Forest Service District Ranger Nick Glidden was present to provide an update on with the National Forest Service and how that will affect San Juan County. Sara Mordecai and Lacy Black were present to request $45,000 in funding from the Affordable Housing/Chldcare Lodging Tax Fund for the Silverton Family Learning Center. Commissioner Fetchenhier moved for the County to make 61 monthly payments of $7500 to the SFLC. Commissioner Maisel seconded the motion. The motion passed unanimously. Anne Chase of the Silverton Housing Authority was present to request $100,000 in funding from the Affordable Housing/Childcare Lodging Tax Fund for a cash match for a $616,000 Division ofHousing Grant they received. The funding would only be used if they do not receive a $450,000 grant from the Colorado Health Foundation. Commissioner Fetchenhier moved to approve the $100,000 request conditional upon the Housing Authority not receiving the CHF Grant. Commissioner Maisel seconded the motion. The motion passed unanimously. Anthony Edwards was present to request a Letter of Support for the Town of Silverton's application to the Natural Resource Damage Fund and to help identifying $150,000 in match. Commissioner Fetchenhier moved to approve the Letter of Support. Commissioner Maisel seconded the motion. The motion passed unanimously. The proposed Fire Station Sublease Renewal Agreement was presented to the Commissioners for their consideration. Commissioner Fetchenhier moved to approve the Agreement as presented. Commissioner Maisel seconded the motion. The motion passed unanimously. The County received a request from the San Juan Mountain Alliance for financial assistance with the bathrooms for the Ice Lake Trailhead. Commissioner Fetchenhier moved to approve $4000 from the Lodging Tax Visitor Enhancement Fund. Commissioner Maisel seconded the motion. The motion passed unanimously. Administrator Tookey discussed with the Commissioners the possibility of demolishing the brick house across the bridge in exchange for land that is adjacent to the County Shop Building. It was the consensus of the Commissioners to proceed. The Commissioners scheduled a site visit of the proposed Overland Estates Subdivision with Lloyd Swartz for May 20, 2025 at 4:00 pm. Having no further business, the meeting was adjourned at 11:01 P.M. Austin Lashley, Chairman Ladonna L. Jaramillo, County Clerk SAN JUAN COUNTY APRIL 2025 ROAD REPORT EQUIPMENT TIME D6T 11 hrs #1 772G grader 32 hrs #2 772g grader 17 hrs Gmc 704 miles Chevy Silverado 560 miles D6n 56 hrs 936 loader 28 hrs Excavator 29 hrs International dump truck 80 miles Excavator 29 hrs Footer 1 COUNTY ROAD 2 #1 772g grader 16 hrs #2 772g grader 8.5 hrs Chevy Silverado 280 miles Gmc 352 miles D6n 11 hrs Bladed road work on ditch Opend road to Animas Forks Fixed master link in d6t Footer 2 COUNTY ROAD 110 #1 772g grader 16 hrs #2 772g grader 8.5 hrs Chevy Silverado 280 miles Gmc 352 miles Bladed road in spots Lots of rocks down on the road County Road 8 Ophir pass D6n 48 hrs Open pass to the county line County Road 14 Broklyn Mine Road D6n 8 hrs Open to just the mine Footer 3 County Road 4 Cunningham Gulch Excavator 29 hrs Worked on the road by Beaver dams, Hauled in 500 yards of rock to build road up 4 Footer 4 Summary of the Month of April Worked on brakes in Peter built dump truck, still not done, Outsourcing another mechanic to come in and finish them, Tranning on exconvator, tranning on dozers Ordered d6t tracks, ordered culvert, both manufacturers say they are going to have an increase in prices in the next 6 months. Footer 5 5/16/25, 1:37 PM San Juan County Mail Please Support a County Wildfire Crew Gmail Willy Tookey samnespancalondour Please Support a County Wildfire Crew 1 message Dustin Eldridge ustinaedirdgpe@ynaicom: Thu, May 15, 2025 at 7:45 PM To: Willy Tookey dmn@.anuamcoondous Willy, Please direct the following comment to the County Commissioners. I am writing to you to ask that you prioritize funding for a wildland fire crew and equipment based here in San Juan County. Not only would this funding provide for a safer, healthier community, but it would also generate local jobs, grow revenue for local emergency services, combat rising home insurance rates, and create a workforce to complete wildfire mitigation in the community. An investment from the County of $100,000 would be able to purchase a wildland fire engine. A type 6 engine would be able to earn $91.25/hour (plus the pay of the firefighters) on wildfire incidents. Most wildfire assignments are 14 days with 16 hour shifts. That equates to $20,440. This investment could be paid off in 5 assignments. These figures are pulled from the Colorado Division of Fire Prevention and Control (DFPC) website linked here. Page 6, type 6 engine. DFPC Resource Rates The Volunteer Fire Department has proved to be a willing sponsor of a wildland fire crew. They have surpassed multiple hurdles in the past year to be able to sponsor a crew. The final hurdle they have is financial. For a relatively small investment, the County Commissioners could furnish a capable wildland fire crew. This investment in the community would create a financially sustainable program that would increase San Juan County's resilience to wildfire. Catastrophic wildfires in Los Angeles, Hawail, and Boulder demonstrate the need for wildfire resilient communities. Additionally, many residents of the County have had their home insurance rates grow due to increased wildfire risks. We need to confront the possibility of wildfires in San Juan County head on. The day a fire starts is too late. I urge you, please invest in our community by prioritizing funding for a wildland fire crew. Thanks for your time, Dustin Eldridge Mtbslimatigoogle-commalvonaeasamsNasesdhatsemaseMisZSTERNAseTAkancimstNs89618323987824398110 1/1 a a * N N N 0 6 - 5 I Townof Silverton Gloria Kaasch-Buerder liwn, Nmini-lalor dannh-huvicere ilvertn,sa- May 16, 2025 Dear County Commissioners, would like to take this opportunity to provide some clarifying comments in response to the May 14th County Commissioners Meeting. Given the late hour of the meeting, felt it would be more appropriate to address the matter in writing rather than extend the discussion further at that time. Lodging Fee The lodging fee imposed by the Town of Silverton is not a lodging tax. The Town is unable to implement a lodging tax because we are not a home-rule municipality. Although we have explored the possibility of becoming a home-rule municipality in consultation with the Colorado Municipal League (CML), we do not meet the minimum population requirement of 900 residents to pursue that option. Instead, the Town has established a lodging fee, which is charged to local lodging establshments. As outlined in Resolution 2024-27, the current lodging fees are as follows: $4.00 per night, per unit, per bed for hotels and motels $3.00 per night, per unit for campsites $6.00 per night, per bed for vacation rentals In 2022, a proposal to allocate these funds to affordable housing was not approved by the Board of Trustees. Instead, Resolution 2022-31 was adopted, stipulating that all lodging fee revenues must be used to offset expenditures directly related to lodging and camping operations. These include, but are not limited to, support for the Visitor Center, special events, and marketing efforts. In 2024, the Trustees approved a $2.00 increase to the lodging fee, with the additional revenue designated for the Town's water and sewer funds to support critical infrastructure projects. As a result, lodging fee revenue increased from $67,845 in 2023 to $126,348 in 2024. The additional funds from the fee increase have been allocated to water and sewer infrastructure improvements. Affordable Housing Funding PO. Box 250 . I 360 Cireene Strect . Silverton, CO 81433 970-387-5522 x. I0 . 970-880-4087 Direct www.colorado.sovilovlowmolgilverion Town of Silverton Gloria Kaasch-Buerger lown Nministrator skaarsh-huergerie- ilverloncus The Town is grateful for the generous support of the County for the Silverton Housing Authority projects. Here is a breakdown of the funding we have received from the County's Lodging Tax to date: Townhomes: County Funding: $31,100 ($100,000 contingency pending) Leveraged Funding (DOH AHOP): $616,000 /$1,066,000 if awarded CHF Boxcar Apartments: County Funding: $8,809 Leveraged Funding (EIAF More Housing Now): $79,281 Totals: If not awarded CHF Grant County Lodgers Fund: $139,909 Leveraged Funding: $695,281 If awarded CHF Grant County Lodgers Fund: $39,909 Leveraged Funding: $1,145,281 There appears to be a perception that the Town has not contributed our share to the Housing Authority's budget. I'd like to take this opportunity to clarify the Town's support for affordable housing over the past three years and highlight the importance of continued collaboration with the County to address this significant and complex issue. I hope this letter provides clarity and transparency. I'd also like to acknowledge and express my appreciation for the many: years prior to the formation of the Housing Authority that the county has supported affordable housing through the Anvil neighborhood and apartments. The Town looks forward to continued collaboration to support this pressing issue for our community. Time and Leadership Commitment One of the Town's most substantial contributions has been the time and effort dedicated by our elected officials and staff. The Trustees and Mayor who receive annual stipends of $3,599 and $5,846, respectively--have collectively spent hundreds of hours over the past three years establishing and supporting the Housing Authority. Town staff have also devoted significant time and resources to advancing Housing Authority initiatives. PO. Box 250 . 13 360) Greene Street . Silverton, C081433 970-387-5522 x. 10. 970-880-4087 Direct atahwalaluntn Townof Silverton Gloria Kaasch-Buerser lown Admini-tralur dawhhaar-hatmawe Direct Financial Contributions Since its formation, the Town has contributed over $232,710 from the General Fund directly to affordable housing efforts. These contributions have supported a range of needs, including matching benefits for the Housing Authority Director, operational support, grant leverage, training, and surveys. In addition, the Town waived $103,047 in fees for the Anvil Townhomes project-another substantial form of financial support. Indirect Support While not reflected in the monetary total, the Town has provided essential in-kind support, including office space, computer equipment, and use of a Town vehicle for training, insurance coverage, accounting services, and office supplies. These resources are vital to the day-to-dayt functioning of the Housing Authority and should not be overlooked. Future Funding and Regional Collaboration To ensure the long-term sustainability and effectiveness of affordable housing efforts, the Town has previously recommended forming a multi-jurisdictional housing authority under CRS 29-1-204.5(1). Unlike a single-jurisdiction housing authority, which has limited funding mechanisms, a mutt-jurisdictional authority can generate revenue through a levy on sales or use taxes, a levy on property taxes, and development impact fees. While our current single-jurisdiction Housing Authority has enabled us to pursue critical projects-such as the Anvil Townhomes-it lacks the broader financial tools needed for future initiatives. The Town, as mentioned before, does not have the same taxing authority as the County to generate sustainable funding sources for affordable housing due to our status as a non-home rule municipality. The formation of a muti-jurisdictional housing authority would provide access to these tools and foster a more sustainable, collaborative approach to funding affordable housing solutions between the Town and County. As state and federal grant funding continues to decline, respectfully urge the County to revisit the discussion of forming a mult-jurisdictiona. housing authority during a joint Town and County work session later this summer. This partnership is essential to addressing our region's housing challenges with the scale and resources they demand. PO. Box 250 . 1 360 Gireene Street . Silverton, CO 81433 970-387-5522x. I0 . 970-880-4087 Direct www.colorado.ovlowv/lownolsilverton Town of Silverton Gloria Kaasch-Buerser lin. Amini-trator da-hharr-husiman The Town's Budget In 2025 the town is building their emergency reserves up to 25% of our general fund revenues after an accounting error that led to overspending. We have cut services, positions, and scaled back operations to ensure that we are efficient with our funds. Our aggressive budget cuts this year will bring us back into the black and allow us to start saving for our larger projects next year. Leadership in the Community encourage us to engage with one another in a more inclusive and collaborative manner as we navigate the challenges ahead. We are facing unprecedented times, and the funding issues before us will undoubtedly bring difficult conversations. In light of this, respectfully ask that we approach each other's actions with the assumption of good intent and a spirit of curiosity. Our community is too small to allow division to hinder progress. Jumping to conclusions, contributing to the rumor mill without verifying facts, or isolating ourselves within our respective jurisdictions only makes our work more difficult and less effective. By working collaboratively and presenting a united front, we can set a powerful example for our community. Unity and cooperation will be critical to successfully navigating these trying times and building a stronger future together. Iwould like to propose a full-day Town/County budgeting work session this fall. This would be a day for the Trustees and Commissioners to come together and discuss our services in the community, potential funding issues, and collaborate on solutions. appreciate your dedication to addressing affordable housing in our community and look forward to continued collaboration and strong relationships. Please reach out with any questions. Sincerely, - - Gloria Kaasch-Buerger DO. Box 250 . I 360 Greene Street - Silverton, cO 81433 970-387-5522 x. 10. 970-880-4087 Direcl wwwcolurado.ov/lownolailvertion April 23, 2025 Dear San Juan County Commissioners, am writing to respectfully urge the Board of County Commissioners to honor the existing wait list for the market rate lots in the Anvil Mountain Subdivision and proceed with awarding the currently available undeveloped lots to the individuals on that list. These individuals have long awaited their opportunity to build homes in Silverton under the framework and expectations established by San Juan County. As outlined in the 2017 Real Estate Purchase Contract and the Anvil Market Rate Development Agreement, the County initiated the Anvil Mountain project with a vision of communty-centered development that would provide opportunities for full-time residents to construct high-quality, energy-efficient homes. The agreement clearly sets forth the County's commitment to sell lots at a fair market rate ($30,000 per lot) with the expectation that buyers would promptly (within 2 years) develop their properties into primary residences. A key requirement of the agreement was the two-year timeline to construct and occupy a single-family home on each lot claimed. This timeline reflects the County's intent to ensure that development proceeds in a timely manner, transforming empty lots into vibrant, lived-in homes-not land-banked properties or long-term vacancies. This vision is not just about growth- it is about community. Please note that multiple of the current "owners" of the undeveloped lots have not met this requirement. Further, the Anvil Mountain Design Standards and Restrictive Covenants underscore the County's long-term planning and investment in shaping a residential neighborhood that contributes meaningfully to the character of Silverton. The prohibition on short-term rentals, the mandate for full-time occupancy required highlight the importance of sustained local residency and community development. To now leave these lots undeveloped and the wait list unacknowledged not only undermines the publics trust but also is delaying and jeopardizing the fulfillment of the project's original purpose: to expand Silverton's livable housing for permanent residents. Delaying the lot allocation, or changing the process midstream, would threaten the momentum of this important community initiative. I respectfully request that the County: 1. Publicly reaffirm its commitment to the Anvil Mountain wait list. 2. Initiate the process to award the available market rate lots to individuals on that list. 3. Provide clear communication regarding timelines and next steps SO that interested parties may prepare accordingly. appreciate your time and dedication to the responsible growth of our community, and I thank you for considering this request in keeping with the principles upon which the Anvil Mountain project was founded. Sincerely, Hillary Cable ASSOCIATION NATIONAL May 2025 gCOUNTIES NACO. - A Split Story Economic Trends in Public Lands Counties Mission Strengthen America's Counties Vision Healthy, safe and vibrant counties across America About The National Association of Counties (NACO) strengthens America's counties, serving nearly 38,000 county elected officials and 3.6 million county employees. Founded in 1935, NACO unites county officials to: Advocate county priorities in federal policymaking Promote exemplary county policies and practices Nurture leadership skills and expand knowledge networks Optimize county and taxpayer resources and cost savings, and Enrich the public understanding of county government. National Center for Public Lands Counties As a signature program oft the NACO Research Foundation, the National Center for Public Lands Counties (NCPLC) advances the policy and practice study for America's public lands counties by educating intergovernmental policymakers about the unique opportunities and challenges faced by county officials in areas with significant federal public lands, conducting research and facilitating public forums to inform policies and practices and fostering dialogue between federal, state, tribal and local governments on key issues. Contacts Isabella Reed Teryn Zmuda Gregory Nelson Research Associate Chief Research Officer Director, NCPLC ireed@naco.org & Chief Economist gnelson@naco.org tzmuda@naco.org 2 A Split Story: Economic Trends in Public Lands Counties & B Nearly two-thirds (62 percent) of counties have federally owned lands within the countyboundaries 62% These counties cannot collect property taxes on federal land, yeti must still provide essential services forresidents and visitors eachyear. Such services include fire protection, wildfire mitigation, waste removal, road and bridge maintenance, environmental management, public health services, search and rescue, law enforcement and emergency medical services. 8 N - Asse u Table of Contents Introduction and Key Takeaways.. 6 The Public Lands County Perspective. 8 Economic Analysis 11 Population.. 12 Housing 14 GDP. 16 County Case Studies. 18 Structural Limits a 22 County Responses to Public Lands Constraints. 26 Conclusion 31 Appendix. 32 Individual County Economic Trends 33 Notes 36 Endnotes 37 Data Sources. 41 4 I A Split Story: Economic Trends in Public Lands Counties Economic Trends in Public Lands Counties "There's no county land there, but people use county roads to get there and they stay in ourl hotels and restaurants and they, park along ourroads and make it hard to geti inj for search and rescue and there arentreally any toilets. We realized early on without having land there or really any authority, the. best thing we could dois to be a convener and to try to help secure funds forthings." "ii Nevada County, Calif Introduction Counties with federal public lands are complex and To understand the county landscape and the impact of varied in structure, economic composition and public lands on counties, we examine the local economic challenges. Federal public lands counties experience trends by share ofi federally owned public lands across high growth on average"; however, when analyzing by the nation, breaking the analysis into high share (85% county size and share of public lands, thes story becomes or more), medium share (25-84%) and low share (24% more complex and the economic trends of these counties or less). demonstrate both growth and decline, Depending on the share of public land in a county's One consistent similarity among public lands counties, boundary, challenges such as remote area access, growth or decline, remains the limitation on revenue infrastructure development, substantial visitor traffic, generationi through taxation, property or otherwise, which difficulty rebounding the economy amidst natural can cause revenue shortages that strain service delivery disasters and coordination with the federal government expenditures. While the federal program Payment in Lieu persist at multiple levels. While share of land is an of Taxes (PILT) aims to offset revenue shortages, the important distinction, all public lands counties face the PILT program has not kept pace with local expenditure challenge of county needs outstripping resources. demands. COUNTY CATEGORIZATION BY FEDERALLY OWNED PUBLIC LAND B 1520 1158 High Medium Low Nop public lands 61A AS Split Story: Economic Trends in Public Lands Counties Key Takeaways 1. Public lands counties facing record growth of 2.Publiclands counties facing declinein population population see challenges in affordability and are challenged by public land constraints when service delivery. trying to rebound the! local economy. Population has grown more frequently in counties The slowest growth in economic output is seen with medium shares of federal public lands in counties with high shares of public lands, only compared to non-publiclands counties. Sixty-nine increasing 16% between 2013 and 2023.vii percent of medium share counties saw population Counties with high shares of public lands see the growth in 2023 versus 58% of non-public lands most frequent population decline when compared counties." to counties with less or no public lands. In 2023, - Average home values in counties with more than a 50%ofhigh share counties experienced a decline 25%share ofp publiclandst have grown exponentially in population,k since the end of2020. Forc counties with high shares of publicl lands, the The population growth and overall visitorincrease average home value is 40% higher than national arestrainingt thefiscalposttonsofseveralcounties" figures.* The fastest growth in economic output is seen 3. Structural challenges restrict all public lands in counties with medium shares offederal public counties from making up forlost revenue. land, increasing 23% between 2013 and 2023,) yet In the 12 states where 25% or more of the land is the needs in the county are still growing despite federally owned, nearly all counties face two or limited resources." more property tax caps imposed by the state.xi Local expenditures for community service delivery in counties that received PILT increased 25% while PILT payments overall increased 18%, a 7% offset over a five year period. xii xii The Public Lands County Perspective "We started overlapping with the Bureau ofLand Management, we started overlapping with the city, with the counties, and with the state lands. And sO, we started to have to go, Hey neighbors, how can we work togetherto not have these lines on the map and all of as sudden our Iforest] treatments stop. xiv DistrictRanger Shared Responsibilities of Federal Agencies and Counties Over 600 million acres-or 28% of U.S. land, are majority,* vxvi These lands are held in trust for the public, federally owned--with five agencies--Bureau of Land with management decisions authorized by Congress Management (BLM), Forest Service (USFS), National and management needs executed in collaboration with Park Service (NPS), Fish and Wildlife Service (FWS), state, county and tribal governments. and the Department of Defense DoD)-managing the Counties partner primarily with five federal agencies to execute the management of more than 600 million acres held by the federal government. a - 1 Bureau of Land Forest Service National Park Fish and Wildlife Department of Management (BLM) (USFS) Service (NPS) Service (FWS) Defense (DoD) PERCENT OF ACREAGE MANAGED BY THE FIVE MAJOR FEDERAL LAND-MANAGING AGENCIES 1137 252 140 102 159 Source: NACO Analysis of US. Geological Survey (USGS) Protected. Areas Database, 2023. 0% 10% 25% 40% 60% 85% 99% A Split Story: Economic Trends in Public Lands Counties 9 Distinctive County Challenges Along with having federal land in the county's jurisdiction, public lands counties face challenges such as geographical location, economic landscape or historical policies. These challenges, unique to public lands counties, compound to impact economic development. Rising Housing Limited Industry and Home Ebbs and Property Insurance Costs Flows Tax Base Remote Area Buildable Land Access and Constraints Infrastructure Coordination with Changing Federal Federal Agencies Legislation and Guidance Property Tax Caps Imposed Rental Homes Increasingly by the State and Second Popular Travel Home Hot Destinations Spots Natural Disasters 10 I A Split Story: Economic Trends in Public Lands Counties Economic Analysis Everybody is struggling with housing, but ourissue. is really injrastructure, and not having water in the. right places or wastewaterin the right places. wej find ourselves doing alot ofinfill projects,getting smallerl homes in tighter areas. " xvii HawaiiCounty, Hawaii POPULATION The 'Cost Creep' on Counties Medium Share Public Lands Counties See Most Frequent Population Growth Public lands counties with the most frequent population than higher wages or job opportunities increasing the growth face increased infrastructure and service needs resident service demand in our counties.xx challenges. When analyzing by the share of public land This growth generates significant challenges. In counties within a county, population growth is most frequent with NPS land, search and rescue incidents have among counties with medium public lands shares (25- steadily 84% share of public lands) and population growth atlarge increased every year since. 2019. xxi For example, Coconino County, Ariz., home to a portion of the Grand is the dominant trend among public lands counties xviixix Canyon, National Park, saw a 30% increase over the national Counties with medium shares of public lands have been average of park rescues in 2021.xxiixxii These demands popular destinations for amenity migration people burden county budgets, local taxpayers and residents' moving to rural areas for better quality of life rather quality of life. POPULATION GROWTH IS A DOMINANT TREND AMONG PUBLIC LANDS COUNTIES 2023 County-by-County Population Change by Share of Federally Owned Land 60% 211 810 572 13 12 40% 462 583 107 20% 39 97 89 27 38 0% NoPublic Lands Low (24% or Less) Medium (2596-8496) High (85% or Greated) Percent of Public Landsi int the County POPULATION CHANGE a Slight Growth a Moderate Growth a Slight Decline a Moderate Decline 12 I A Split Story: Economic Trends in Public Lands Counties POPULATION The Landscape of Decline 39% of Public Lands Counties Saw a Decrease in Population in 2023 Many public lands counties are challenged with Falling populations make it difficult for counties to afford population and tax base decline overall, 39% of public increased visitation or normal daily services as decreased lands counties saw a decrease in population in 2023. populations mean reduced personnel and a decreased High share public lands counties (85% or more) are andi inconsistent tax base, a revenue: source that is already seeing more frequent population decline, often paired limited by having public land ini the county's) jurisdiction. with an increased number of visitors. xxiv Housing affordability and cost of living are key drivers White Pine County, Nev. (94%) federal of population decline in counties with high shares of public land) saw a 6.1% decrease in public lands, where amenity migration and visitors have population from 2020 to 2023. With driven up costs for locals. In counties where the large fewer people, the county's property tax majority of land is managed by thet federal government base has declined: the 2025 budgeted ort the land is particularly remote and difficult to reach, it tax revenue is 12.7% less than can be nearlyimpossible to build the amount of housing property needed for a thriving economy.* XV the amount in 2021. xxvi DanLeeth /Alamy Stock Photo AS Split Story: Economic Trends in Public Lands Counties - - 13 HOUSING Affordability Crisis Public Lands Counties See the Steepest Increases in Home Values Home values are rising in all counties, but public lands infrastructure and limits the amount of land available counties have seen the steepest increases. While for housing, again restricting the supply and driving up counties without public lands have paced below national existing home values. trends, average home value in counties with moret than of lands Third, homes in public lands counties are more at risk a quarter public have grown exponentially for natural disasters like wildfires. xxVuxxix Natural disasters since the end of 2020. xxvii can destroy existing homes but also make the market In growing counties, three key challenges of public lands unattractive to insurance companies who will either drive impact local residents and housing. First, counties with up costs or refuse to insure the homes at all, making increased visitation have experienced traditional housing homes in public lands counties even further out of turning into short-term rental locations for visitors. With reach for local residents. xxX For example, Grant County, a decrease in long-term housing supply, the cost of a N.M. (48% federal public land), at the foothills of the home rises for county residents. Gila National Forest, is a wildfire risk area. In 2018, 51 home insurance contracts were not renewed - about Second, public lands counties are often more rural or one in 100 policies. In 2023, the number doubled to 100 remote, making it difficult to build quality infrastructure nonrenewals.* xxxi or homes. This causes counties to work within existing HOME VALUES SOAR IN HIGH AND MEDIUM SHARE PUBLIC LANDS COUNTIES Average Monthly Home Value Index by Share of Federally Owned Land in the County (Oct 2014-2024) 200 Counties with morei than 25% ofp publicl lands have higher home values overt time /5 SHARE OFI PUBLICLAND U a Low (24% or less) Medium (25%-84%) 125 a High (85% or greater) . Nop publicl land 00 2015 2016 2017 2018 2019 2020 2021 2022 2023 2024 2025 Notes: Data is smootheda ands seasonally adjusted. Counties with 24% or less or no public land have nearly identical trend lines. 14 A Split Story: Economic Trends in Public Lands Counties HOUSING Attracting New Residents Amidst Increased Home Costs Home Values in High Share Counties are 40% Higher than National Average Although housing costs in every county arer rising, counties Rising housing costs, limited buildable land and taxable with high shares ofp publiclands see thel highest home value land constraintsplace barriers on counties with high increase and the most frequent population decline. Home shares of public land when rebuilding or strengthening values in high share public lands counties (85%+) are the county's workforce. With housing costs in these 40% higher than the national average.* xxxii With such counties close to double the national average, it can be large amounts of public land in the county's jurisdiction, nearlyi impossible to retain existing residents or encourage these counties have the most restricted buildable land residents to movei into the countyt tos support the workforce and land access and face unique pressures from second and greater community. In addition, remote areas make it homeownership and short-term rentals. diffcult to build new homes and attract new residents." xxxii Petersburg Borough, Alaska Blaine County, Idaho (97% federal public land) (87% federal public land) Petersburg Borough, Alaska is providing detailed, pre- Blaine County, Idaho's home values have soared since 2020, permitted blueprints to residents to make it easier for people making housing unattainable to most local essential workers. to add Accessory Dwelling Units, or small homes, to their To combat thei increasing home values (in October 2024, the property. Due to the county's remote location and rural average home value int the county was $940,791) the county's nature, new buildings in the county can face challenges with school district collaborated with a local affordable housing infrastructure costs. By building additional homes on a single developer, Advocates for Real Community Housing (ARCH). property, the new homes can use existing infrastructure like The partners recently finishedi five rent-controlled homes, only roads, sewer or water. xxxiv available to school district employees who would not have to pay morei than 30% of their adjusted gross income for rent. XXXV A Split Story: Economic Trends in Public Lands Counties 1 15 GDP GDP Across Public Lands Counties The Share of Public Lands Plays Key Role in Economic Resilience Overi the past decade, high share publicl lands counties than high share counties. This may reflect the diverse have seen limited GDP growth in comparison to all attributes of medium share counties, which include 363 other categories, in most cases even non-public lands counties that span 37 states. Although GDPi isi increasing, counties. Meanwhile, medium share counties have counties are still faced with the challenge of increased experienced substantial GDP growth over 7% more demands outpacing revenues. xxxvi xxxvii HIGH SHARE PUBLIC LANDS SEE SLOWEST ECONOMIC GROWTH Economic Output of Counties, Categorized by Share of Federal Public Land (2013-2023) 120 Counties with medium share of public lands 115 110 105 Counties with high share 100 ofp publiclands 2013 2014 2015 2016 2017 2018 2019 2020 2027 2022 2023 SHARE OFF PUBLICLAND a Low (24% orl less) a Medium (25%-84%) a High (85% org greater) a No publicl land 16 - A Split Story: Economic Trends in Public Lands Counties GDP Volatile Landscapes High Share Public Lands Counties Experience the Slowest GDP Growth There are various reasons that high share public lands vulnerable to external pressures like natural resource counties have seen lower economic growth overi the past shortages and untold federal regulations, natural decade. While thet tourism Pdsysgerealyeperercng disasters or shifts in landscape health, Therefore, these strong growth, other major industries on public lands- counties must leverage atordhengowandmanye such as agriculture, ranching, and farm work-are highly risks tied to primaryi industries. Esmeralda County, Nevada Custer County, Idaho (97% federal public land) (93%1 federal public land) Esmeralda County, Nevada's least populated county,is! heavily Custer County, Idaho, located in central Idaho, faced severe reliant on the mining industry. With almost half ofi total jobs drought conditions ini the summer and fall of2 2024. In addition in the county in the mining sector, the county's economy is to affecting everyday life, droughts have major impacts on dependent on natural resources and impacted significantly by agriculture a sector that provides 12% of total jobs in the swings ando changes with federal or state regulations. Int thel last county. On Dec. 9, 2024, the U.S. Secretary of Agriculture fewy years, the county'se economy hastaken a severe downturn: designatedan: agricultural disasterin Custer County, a product Between 2020 and 2022, the county's GDP decreased 12 ofextreme drought and wildfires duringi the growing season. percent. In a unique economic opportunity, the Rhyolite Thec county mustr nowl everagehntergovemment.a partnerships Ridge Lithium-Boron Project gainedi full regulatory approval to rebuildi the agricuture-dependent economy, The U.S. Small after ai four-year federal permitting ande environmental review Business Administration recently made low-interest federal process. This project would transform the county's economy disaster loans available to eligible small ousinesses, a step and double the population. The project remains complex with ini rebounding the economy and recovering from the natural environmental concerns and potential litigation that could disaster. XXXix slow movement. Esmeralda County must navigatei the balance between federal processes, environmental stewardshipand natural resources to rebuild their economy. xxxvin A Split Story: Economic Trends in Public Lands Counties 17 CASE STUDIES Washington County, Utah Visitor and Population Growth are 75% Strong, but Water Shortages Prevail Federal PublicLand Washington County, Utah, located in the southwestern corner oft the state of Utah, is home to Zion National Park and the city of St. George. The county is three quarters federally owned, with the federal public land being managed by the USFS, BLM and NPS. Other notable Key County! Economic amdDemographcSlatates characteristics of the county include: +12.3% +36.8% Short-Term Population Change, Long-Term Population Change, - From 2010 to 2022, the county's population increased 2020-2023 2010-2022 nearly 37%, with a 12.39increase inj just the last three +10.1% $7.9 Billion years.* xl This dramatic increase is partially due to the GDP Change, 2020-2022 2022 Economic Output popularity oft the county for retirees the number of residents 65 and older has grown by 81,4% over the $187.5 Million $3.8 Million same time frame and now accounts for over: a fifth of FY241 Budgeted Expenditures FY24 PILTF Payment the county's population. xdi 2% +0.6% FY24 Budget Covered Home Value Change, - Visitation has also increased, with Zion National Park by PILT Oct2 2023-Oct2024 receiving over 4.6 million visits in 2023; in all, visitors Data Sources: U.S. Department of Commerce. 2023. Bureau ofe Economic spent $903.5 million in Washington County, which Analysis, Regional Economic. Accounts, Washington, D.C, reported by Headwaters Economics' Economic Profile System supported more than 8,520 jobs a 5% increase hedaesacnomesope, from 2022.ii The county has capitalized on visitor growth, with INDUSTRIES THAT INCLUDE TRAVEL & TOURISM, services-related, jobs growing 170% since 2001, and PERCENT OF EMPLPOYMENT, 2023 travel/tourism industries now making up a fifth of the county's employment xlii 25% 20% - Natural resource challenges persist, as water is scarce ini the region. The county released a $1.15 billion 15% plan to recycle wastewater in addition to building a 10% new reservoir in order to provide clean water for its 5% growing number of residents xliv Washingtono County,UT UnitedStates a Retaill Trade B Arts, Entertainment: & Recreation - Passenger Transportation a Accommodations & Food Data Sources: U.S. Department of Commerce. 2023. Bureau of Economic Analysis, Regional Economic Accounis, Washington, D.C; US. Department oflabor. 2024. Bureau oflabor Statistics, Quarterly Census ofb Employment and Wages, Washington, D.C., reportedb by Headwaters Economics' Economic. Profile. System hadhateronumisopep, 18 I A Split Story: Economic Trends in Public Lands Counties CASE STUDIES Sublette County, Wyoming Struggling to Harness Population 78% Growth as an Economic Asset Federal Public Land Sublette County, Wyoming sits ont the western side of the state and is situated near Bridger Teton National Forest and Grand Teton National Park. Although no national park land is located within the county, it has been a hotspot for amenity migration and has seen a recent uptick in Key County Economic and Demographic Statistics population. However, the county has not seen the same +2.8% -5.6% growth in its economy. xlv Other notable characteristics Short-Term Population Change, Long-Term Population Change, 2020-2023 2010-2022 oft the county include: -24.4% $798.5 Million The county is almost 80% federally owned, with GDP Change,2020-2022 20221 Economic Output management split between USFS and BLM. $267.3 Million $1.21 Million From 2010 to 2022, the county decreased 5.6% in FY241 Budgeted Expenditures FY241 PILTF Payment population. However, that trend reversed in post- 0.5% +3.6% Covidy years, as the countyis now the fastest growing FY24E Budget Covered Home Value Change, in the state, with a 2.8% increase in the last three byPILT Oct2 2023-Oct2 2024 years.*vi Thec county'sl location has madel itap popular destination GDP BY YEAR FOR THE COUNTY, 2017 TO 2022 for remote workers since 2020. Although the population is growing faster than $1.4 the rest of the state, the economy is facing a steep billion decline - agriculture and mining make up nearly $1.2 a quarter of employment in the county, industries billion billion S1.1 S1.1 which are dependent on natural resources and billion $936.3 million landscape health. xivii $798.5 million From 20101 to 2022, non-services related employment 2017 2018 2019 2020 2021 2022 lost 1,700 jobs, mainly ini the mining industry, xivii Data Sources: US. Bureau of Economic, Analysis Local Area Gross Domestic Product, 2022 vintage - Although the county's economy is struggling, the combination of amenity migration and visitor boosts have caused a 3.6% home value increase in the last year. A Split Story: Economic Trends in Public Lands Counties 19 CASE STUDIES Pocahontas County, West Virginia 52% Federal PublicLand County Residents Face Headwinds from Visitor Boost Pocahontas County, West Virginia is situated on the eastern side of the state. Home to headwaters of eight rivers and located in the Appalachian Mountains, over Key County Economic: and Demographic Statistics half of the county is federally owned land, all managed by the USFS. Other notable characteristics ofthe county -1.3% -10% Short-Term Population Change, Long-Term Population Change, include: 2020-2023 2010-2022 The county decreased nearly 10% inj population from -4.7% $266.5 Million 20101 to 2022 and saw a -1.3% changei ini the last three GDP Change,2020-2022 2022 Economic Output years. xlix $9.31 Million $1 Million Like most oft the state, the county primarily employs FY24 Budgeted Expenditures FY24 PILT Payment people in commodity sectors like timber, mining 10.2% +4.5% or agriculture sectors that are not only subject FY241 Budget Covered Home Value Change, byF PILT Oct 2023-Oct 2024 to federal regulation and could be greatly affected by natural disasters, but also dependent on natural resources and landscape health. COMMODITY SECTORS, PERCENT OF EMPLOYMENT - While the county's population has decreased, visitor traffic has increased since 2020, as people visit the 9% county's resorts and trails. 8% 7% - The potential profit from short-term rentals has 6% encouraged landlords to turn properties from long 5% to short-term rentals, limiting local housing supply 4% and driving up home values. 3% 2% 1% Pocahontas County, Wva. United. States a Timber 2023 a Mining 2023 Agriculture 2022 Data Sources: U.S. Department of Commerce. 2023. Bureau of Economic. Analysis, Regional Economic Accounts, Washinglon, D.C.; US., as reported in Headwaters Economics' Economic Profile System Padistesepamisopen, 20 I A Split Story: Economic Trends in Public Lands Counties CASE STUDIES Beaverhead County, Montana 59% Federal PublicLand Continued Growth Becoming Unaffordable for Residents Beaverhead County, Montana is located ini the southwest corner ofthe: state along the great Continental Divide, Over half of the countyi is federally owned, with the land being Key County Economic and Demographic-Statistics managed primarily by the USFS, BLM and FWS. Other +5.5% +5% notable characteristics oft the county include: Short- Term Population Change, Long-Term Population Change, 2020-2023 2010-2022 The county has a steadily growing population with a 5% increase from 2010 to 2022 and a 5.5% increase +7.2% $433.21 Million GDP Change,2020-2022 2022 Economic Output from 2020 to 2023." Thec countyhas seen a subsequent boosti ini its economy, $14 Million $985.3K FY24 BudgetedE Expenditures FY24 PILT Payment witha a 16.1% increasei in GDPI from 2017-2022: anda a 30% and 32% increasei ini non-services and services-related 7% +5.7% industries, respectively" FY24 Budget Covered Horne' Value Change, byF PILT Oct2023-Oct2024 . Agriculture is one oft the major sectors ofe employment in the county, making up 8.6% oft total jobs.ir GDP BY YEAR FOR THE COUNTY, 2017 TO 2022 Ther median householdi incomei int the county is $55,867, well below the median U.S. household income of $433.2 $75,149, $415.4 million million $404.0 While the median income may be expected for a rural million $382.8 $373.1 $373.1 million area, the housing values are not aligned, making the million million area unaffordable for its long-time or new residents. As of October 2024, the average home value in Beaverhead County, Montana is $360,211, higher than 2017 2018 2019 2020 2021 2022 the U.S. average of $355,390. Data Sources: U.S. Bureau ofb Economic Analysis Local Area Gross Domestic Product, 2022 vintage To explore economic data for all counties, visit NACO's County Explorer tool at ce.naco.org A Split Story: Economic Trends in Public Lands Counties 21 Structural Limits "It's hard to provide the resources for our children, our schools, our teachers all of the things that all counties and. municipalities are trying to afford when you don'thave thej funding to do SO. "liv Washington County, Utah Nontaxable Land High Share Public Lands Counties Diversify Tax Revenue Potential economic growth across public lands counties in high share counties, land limitations are pronounced is limited by property tax caps and lack of taxable land sO diversification emerges more prominently in the - restrictions that severely limit most counties' primary tax structure property taxes make up only 36% of source of revenue. Structurally, public lands counties total county-generated revenue in these high share rely heavily on property taxes as the highest source of counties. county-generated taxr revenue (60%), even with thel limits of nontaxable land in the countyj jurisdiction. HIGH SHARE PUBLIC LANDS COUNTIES MUST DIVERSIFY TAX REVENUE County-Generated Tax Revenue Breakdown for Counties with 85%+ Federal Public Land 100% 90% 60% 70% 60% 50%0 40% 30% 20% 10% - Property Tax a Sales Tax E License & Other Taxes County-Generated Tax Revenue Breakdown for Counties for All Public Lands Counties License & Other Taxes Property Tax Sales Taxes Income Taxes 10% 20% 30% 40% 50% 60% 70% 80% 90% 100% Note: this chart excludes county charges, which make up3 34% of county-generated. revenue for these counties. A Split Story: Economic Trends in Public Lands Counties 23 State Tax Caps States with 25% or More Public Lands Have Multiple State-Imposed Property Tax Caps In the 12 states where 25% or more of the land is Nevada, lawmakers capped annual property taxi increases federally owned, nearly all counties face two or more on residential property at 3% and other property at 8% propertyt tax caps imposed byt the state, with counties in in 2005. Ivii In New Mexico, the state does not allow the eight ofthose states facing three or moret tax caps imposed value of residential property to increase by more than 3 byt the state. Nvivi percent each) year or by more than 6.1 percent every two years if the owners remain the same." Iviii Propertytaxi isa ai mainsourcer ofi incomeforr most countiesand public lands counties are working with a disadvantage: These policies limit counties' ability to respond to these counties cannot impose property taxes on federal changing economic conditions or adequatelyi fund critical public land. Therefore, caps on property tax increases are county services, making it significantly challenging uniquely burdensome for public lands counties. for counties to remain financially sustainable while addressing the unique needs of residents and local Additional challenges exist for these counties when economies. attempting to increase property taxes. For example, in STATES WITH A QUARTER OR MORE PUBLIC LAND FACE MULTIPLE STATE-IMPOSED PROPERTY TAX CAPS Percent Public Land and Number of State Property Tax Caps by State, as of April 2017 AK 3 11 12 22 60% ME publc lands No Authority tol Levy One Property Two Property Tax Three or More 1.5% Property Taxes TaxLimit Limits Property Taxi Limits VT NH 7.9% 14.7% WA ID MT ND MN WI MI NY MA 29% 63.2% 29.5% 4.2% 6.8% 5.2% 8.8% 0.6% CT BL 1.2% OR NV WY SD IA IL IN OH PA NJ DE 52.2% 84.3% 48.4% 5.6% 0.7% 1.2% 1.9% 1.4% 2.3% 3.4% 2% CA UT CO NE MO KY WV VA MD 47.8% 65.6% 36.3% 1.2% 4.4% 5% 8.3% 9.4% DC 2.7% AZ NM KS AR MS TN NC Clark County, Nevada (95%1 federalp public land), 41.7% 33.8% 0.9% 10.1% 5.4% 6.2% 7.6% has seen a $30 billion increasei in assessed value int thel last decade. On the other hand, the county OK LA AL GA SC generated $2.2b billion inj property taxi revenue in 1.6% 4.8% 3.1% 5.9% 6% FY2 2016, reducedi to $1.8 billion after abatements. The abatements have caused Clark County and HI TX FL other governments tot turn to other sources, such 16.2% 2% 11.1% ass sales taxes andi fees, to pay for public safety. 24 I A Split Story: Economic Trends in Public Lands Counties Payment in Lieu of Taxes (PILT) PILT Payments Pace Below County Expenditure Increases Payment in Lieu of Taxes (PILT)is a federal program that that received PILT increased 25% while PILT payments aims to offset losses in property tax on federal public overall increased 18%, a 7% offset on average. Ixlxi lands and help counties afford services for the county's The PILT program is critical to serve resident and visitor residents.k However, considering the surge of services needs in public lands counties, especially as tax caps associated with increased population, visitor traffic and and geography restrict the revenue generation. Public overall required county response, the Payment in Lieu of lands counties are facing new economic challenges while Taxes (PILT) program has not appropriated funding in a federal payments are not reflecting a parallel change. proportonateynereasing manner. From 2017to 2022, local expenditures for community service deliveryin counties Yavapai County, Arizona Utah County, Utah (50% federal public land) (47% federal public land) 2022 PILT payment: $3.8 million 2022 PILT payment: $1.9 million 2022 property taxes: $68.6 Million 2022 property taxes: $56.5 million % Change in PILT payment, 2017-2022: 14% % Change in PILT payment, 2017-2022: 8% % Change in total county expenditures, % Change in total county expenditures, 2017-2022: 21% 2017-2022: 76% AS Split Story: Economic Trends in Public Lands Counties I 25 County Responses to Public Lands Constraints "Even ifvisitors aren't staying in Mariposa or any ofthe gateway counties for a week, just people using the parks to transit the Sierra Mountains supports our economy, and when you need a reservation to drive on a road, that makes it tough for us. "Lii Mariposa County, Calif County Responses to Public Lands Constraints The following spotlights share individual solutions and county responses to unique public lands challenges in each county's economic landscape, RESTRICTING AFFORDABLE HOUSING TO PRIMARY, NOT SECONDARY, RESIDENTS Teton County, Wyo. is building workforce homes intended to serve households that earn more than 120% ofi the Median Family Income but cannot afford a market home. To ensure the housing benefits those who call the county home and work to serve the community, eligibility is limited to families in which at least one person in the household works full-time for a local business, and 75% oft the total household's income Teton County, Wyo. must be earned from a local business. Ixiii With local partners like Habitat for Humanity of 97% federal public land the Greater Teton Area, the county has built over 1401 homes for local workers since. 2017. This strategy prioritizes local housing for those who contribute to the local economy and helps with the amenity migration challenge that many counties face. OVERCOMING PERSISTENT CHALLENGES WITH AUTHORITY Nevada County, Calif. is home to the Yuba River, which is managed by various federal, state, and private entities. Although the county has effectively no authority over the river, it faces the effects of increased visitor traffic on county services like public safety and emergency services. To coordinate a response to the effects ofi increased visitation, the county created the South' Yuba River Public Safety Cohort, a multi-agency working group ofs stakeholders to coordinate public safety and law enforcement int the area. Soi far, accomplishments Nevada County, Calif. ofthe group, including the placement of emergency call boxes and increased support 35% federal public land for river ambassadors, have improved safety and emergency responses in the area." Ixiv This cohort is crucial to ensuring the county shares the responsibilities of thei increased visitation, and it is a joint effort with partners and managing authorities to provide critical services. US AS Split Story: Economic Trends in Public Lands Counties 27 EDUCATING COMMUNITY ON NATURAL DISASTER RESPONSE Larimer County, Colo. has experienced the most federally declared disasters ini the state of Colorado since 1965. After back-to-back disasters in the early 2010s, including the 2012 High Park Wildfire and the 2013 Larimer County Floods, the county recognized the needi for a public education campaign around disaster response and preparedness. Larimer County, Colo. The Larimer County Office of Emergency Management created Larimer Connects to 49% federal public land conduct outreach and education on resilience, social connectivity, preparedness and hazard awareness. lxv Through strengthening the community's knowledge, the county's residents and, therefore, its economy are more prepared to withstand natural disasters. Public lands counties see higher rates of some natural disasters, like floods and fires, andi mustr reckon with a more widespread population when faced with these challenges.avi Preparing every resident to respond to a disaster can help strengthen the community and limit the disaster's impact. ESTABLISHING NTERGDVERNMENTAL PARTNERSHIPS TO MITIGATE RISK AND IMPROVE FOREST HEALTH Beaver County, Utah in collaboration with the state of Utah's Department of Natural Resources, ist taking advantage of the USFS' Shared Stewardship program to complete the Beaver River Watershed Improvement Project. Shared Stewardship is an opportunity for state, local and tribal governments to work with the federal agency to address challenges ofi forests and grasslands and improve forest health and resiliency across management jurisdictions. Beaver River Canyon was identified as a top priority due to its sensitive ecological resources, important Beaver County, Utah watershed and significant values at risk. Ixvii 77% federal public land The Beaver Canyon Infrastructure Project is a continuation of work that has been occurring for several years. Through Shared Stewardship, forest treatments are now being implemented at a greater pace and scale to mitigate fire behavior, protect values at risk and improve watershed health in the area. This initiative showcases the importance and potential of county governments to work with federal agencies in the management of federal land. 4 28 I A Split Story: Economic Trends in Public Lands Counties CREATIVE PROBLEM SOLVING TO ADVANCE SHARED COUNTY-FEDERAL INTERESTS Modoc County, Calif. works closely with the USFS as managers oft the public land in the county, with monthly meetings between the agency and supervisors of the county. In this partnership, the county recognized that many projects experienced challenges due to personnel limitations. To maintain projects ini the region, the county partnered with the Modoc County Farm Bureau to hire retired workers for temporary positions. In 2023, the county andi farm bureau hired retirees for a range of positions from entry-level to forest scientists. The program has proved successful and even received recognition from the regional forest. Ixvii Modoc County, Calif. 67%1 federal public land Through creative problem-solving and clear communication, public lands counties can work with federal agencies to advance projects and strengthen the county workforce. LEVERAGING FEDERAL PARTNERSHIP AGREEMENTS FOR LAND MANAGEMENT Coconino County, Ariz. is part of a multi-agency effort along with Coconino National Forest, the City of Flagstaff and the Four Forest Restoration Initiative, among others, to treat unhealthy and unnaturally crowded forests in strategic locations to protect communities and preserve vital watersheds." Ixix Many of these projects use Good Neighbor Authority (GNA) agreements and other contracting mechanisms, allowing the USFS to work with partners like the National Forest Foundation, The Nature Conservancy, county, state, and local governments, Coconino County, Ariz. as well as other non-profits. These agreements facilitate important collaborative 40%1 federal public land management projects on national forest lands. Thesei intergovernmental agreements lead to successful completion of projects like the Flagstaff Watershed Protection Project, which aims to protect and preserve the main source of drinking water in the City of Flagstaff. By collaborating with public land management agencies, Coconino County can treat more acres and complete larger projects. JAS A Split Story: Economic Trends in Public Lands Counties - 29 FORGING PARTNERSHIPS TO SUPPORT A GROWING ECONOMY Summit County, Colo. is a popular ski resort destination and home to numerous mountain ranges. The natural amenities in the county have made it an increasingly high-cost- of-living area. While the county's economy is thriving, the housing costs in the area proved unaffordable for the local workforce and USFS employees. Summit County, Colo. To alleviate these costs, the USFS and the county signed a 50-year lease for the 81% federal public land development of 177 affordable workforce housing units at the forest's aging Dillon Work Center Administrative Site.x This lease is a first ofi its kind for1 the USFS, the first lease signed under the authorities in the 2018 Agriculture Improvement Act, and it paves the way for public lands counties to continue growing the local economy while partnering with federal agencies in land management. Ixxi FEDERAL AUTHORITY CHALLENGING LOCAL ECONOMIES Mariposa County, Calif. is a gateway community to Yosemite National Park. From July to mid-October 2024, the National Park Service tested a new reservation system to enter Yosemite, similar to one that was in place during COVID. The ticket system is a possible solution to overcrowding in the park; however, it led to a drop in lodging revenue between 15-25% in the gateway communities, a rate that could severely harm local economies ifi it continued. Ixxii Considering these impacts, coordination among the intergovernmental parties is Mariposa County, Calif. crucial to solve this unique issue of visitor congestion while still allowing the county's 53% federal public land economy to thrive. 30 I A Split Story: Economic Trends in Public Lands Counties Conclusion Nearly two-thirds of counties in the United States have Continuing with the trend of growth, medium share federalp public lands within the countyjurisdiction. These counties saw a 23% average increase in GDP between counties differ considerably in theirs share of public land 2013 and 2023. High share counties, on the contrary, and related economic challenges and opportunities. In continue to be challenged by the limited amount of all public lands counties, challenges persist as county available land and saw the slowest economic growth service demands grow and outstrip county resources. out of any category, just 16%, between 2013 and 2023, These counties are also forced to rely less on property Among medium share public lands counties (25-84% taxes, which make upj just 36% oft ftheir locally generated federal land), 69% experienced population growth in revenue, comparedto 60% for all public lands counties. 2023, indicating continued appeal and migration into Allcounties ini the 12 states with thel nighest federalland these regions along with an increased strain on county ownershipface twoor more propertyt tax capsimposed services. In contrast, half of the high share counties by the state, further shaping local revenue structures. (85% or more) saw population decline that same year, suggesting that extensive federal land presence may Federal supportthrought PILT(Payments inl Lieu of Taxes) pose barriers to growth or reflect limited development has grown, but notinl line with expenditures. From 2017 opportunities. to 2022, PILT-receiving counties saw a 25% increase in localcommunity services spending-from: $463.7 billionto Regardless of population status, housing values have $5773billon-whilet total PILT paymentsrosel byjust 18%, risens significantly across publicl lands counties. Between from $464.6 million to $549.4 million. These combined 2014and2 2024, average home values in medium and high figures llustrate the varied conditions and constraints share public lands counties nearly doubled- up 99%- with federalland shaping counties significant ownership. with 56% ofthat increase occurring between 2020 and 2024. These figures underscore growing pressure on Duei tot the complex picture of public lands countiesint the housing affordability, especially in high demand areas U.S., analyzing economict trends and: spotightingcounty with limited buildable and taxable land. responses can helpto sharei the publicl lands countystory. Appendix "We. have some ofthe premier outdoor recreation activities in the country, ifnot the world, our economy: is soO much based on tourism and outdoorrecrection, butit also. has its challenges." "Ixxiii Coconino County, Ariz. Individual County Economic Trends ECONOMIC INDICATORS OF MEDIUM AND HIGH SHARE PUBLIC LANDS COUNTIES PILT Remains Small Share of County Expenditure Needs, and Tax Burden Shifts to Residents Share of Federal PILTReceived FY24 PILTas Percent of FY24 General County Public Land FY24 County Fund Expenditures Sitka Borough, Alaska 99% (High) $872.6K 2.1% Wrangell Borough, Alaska 98% (High) $466.1K 72% Ketchikan Gateway Borough, Alaska 98% (High) $1.5M 5.8% Esmeralda County, Nev. 97% (High) $1675K 1.9% Teton County, Wyo. 97% (High) $2.4M 3.1% Pitkin County, Colo. 84% (Medum) $1.9M 3.6% Lander County, Nev. 84% (Medium) $1.3M 3% Idaho County, Idaho 84% (Medium) $2.2M 5.3% Dagget County, Utah 83% (Medium) $173.4K 5.8% Mineral County, Mont. 82% (Medium) $599K N/A NACo's economic profiles on County Explorer allow for the examination of a single county and its individual economic trends. Scan the QR code on the inside back cover to explore economic trends in any county. A Split Story: Economic Trends in Public Lands Counties 33 ECONOMIC INDICATORS OF PUBLIC LANDS COUNTIES WITH HIGHEST GDP GROWTH Home Values Still Tend to Outpace GDP Change Share of Federal GDP change, Average Home Median Household Percent Home Value County Public Land 2020-2022 Value, Oct Income, 2019-2023 Change, October 2024 Average 2020-2024 Teton County, Wyo. 97% (High) +31.9% $2.2 Million $112.7K +82.7% Garfield County, Utah 91% (High) +31.1% $308.7K $61.7K +38% Mineral County, Nev. 94% (High) +21.2% $408.6K $52.5K +42.6% Blaine County, Idaho 87% (High) +20.5% $938.5K $84.5K +59.4% San Juan County, Colo. 90% (High) +19.8% $532.9K $73.9K +61.9% Beaver County, Utah 77% (Medium) +42.8% $289.9K $85.6K +41.9% Stewart County, Tenn. 33% (Medium) +42.3% $239.2K $62.1K +41.6% Denali Borough, Alaska 58% (Medium) +375% N/A $88.9K N/A Scott County, Ark. 64% (Medium) +35.1% $145.5K $46K +15.6% Juab County, Utah 73% (Medium) +33.3% $418.5K $89.8K +34.5% Jones County, N.C. 14% (Low) +40.3% $123.4K $55.7K +50.2% Madison County, Ark. 9% (Low) +39.1% $241.7K $53.9K +42.7% Shelby County, Texas 12% (Low) +30.2% $193.5K $50.4K +2.3% Sevier County, Ark. 8% (Low) +28.3% $153.7K $51.6K +25.3% Gilmer County, Ga. 21% (Low) +24.9% $400.5K $72.5K +66.2% 34 I A Split Story: Economic Trends in Public Lands Counties ECONOMIC INDICATORS OF PUBLIC LANDS COUNTIES WITH LOWEST GDP GROWTH Counties with Falling GDP See Notable Home Value Increases Averagel Home Median Household Percent Home Value County ShareofFederal GDP change, Value, Oct Income, 2019-2023 Change, October Publicland 2020-2022 2024 Average 2020-2024 White Pine County, Nev. 94% (High) -18.5% $169.9K $72.3K +16% Esmeralda County, Nev. 97% (High -12% N/A N/A N/A Mineral County, Nev. 88% (High) -5.8% $114.6K $50.6K -71% Lincoln County, Nev. 94% (High) -4.5% $1978K $69.5K +19.5% Alpine County, Calif. 93% (High) -4% $4976K $110.8K +26.8% Billings County, N.D. 46% (Medium) -58.5% $261.8K $81.3K N/A Carter County, Mont. 28% (Medium) -29,4% $159.6K $52.2K +67% Eureka County, Nev. 79% (Medium) -28.3% $132.7K $73.1K -11.8% McKenzie County, N.D. 30% (Medium) -27.2% $322.8K $88.3K +9% Powder River County, Mont. 28% (Medium) -26.5% $244.2K $68K +75.6% Slope County, N.D. 18% (Low) -53.5% N/A $62.5K N/A Monroe County, Ohio 8% (Low) -36.8% $143.8K $59K +6.9% Morton County, Kan. 23% (Low) -31% $978K $65.6K +10.3% Niobrara County, Wyo. 7% (Low) -24.7% $180.3K $49K +29.7% Fallon County, Mont. 11% (Low) -23.8% $168.2K $72.3K +12.3% A Split Story: Economic Trends in Public Lands Counties 35 Notes All analyses are based on 3,069 counties with active Federally owned land acreage by agency is estimated county governments. Thus, Connecticut, Rhode Island using ArcGIS, with exact amounts unknown due to and portions of Alaska and Massachusetts are excluded technical issues/Congressional Research Service report since they do not have active county governments. R42346). Independent cities in Virginia are also excluded from The Zillow Home Value Index (ZHVI) shows typical home the analysis. New York Cityi is a consolidation of the five values in the 35th to 65th percentile, and the Zillow boroughs ofi the city of New York: Observed Rent Index (ZORI) shows rents in the 40th to 60th percentile. Some counties may be missing from Manhattan (New York County) Zillow data. The Bronx (Bronx County) - Brooklyn (Kings County) Queens (Queens County) Staten Island (Richmond County) The Woods and Poole Complete Economic and Demographic Data Source includes estimated data for Gross Regional Product (GRP), Employment byl Industry, and Total Personal Income for 2022 and 2023. GRP data for 2003-2021 was sourced from the Bureau of Economic Analysis. 36 I A Split Story: Economic Trends in Public Lands Counties Endnotes 'In 2023,6 61% of counties with federal public lands saw an increase inj population. 'iBan, C. (2024,A Aug. 12). Public lands challenges are. as varied as their counties - County News. mtps/wwwnaconghewspubir-landscna- lemgasatvansathercoaumte: Although public lands counties are concentratedi in the West, every state with county government has counties with federal public land int their jurisdiction. "In2 2023, 61% of publicl lands counties saw an increase inj population. Among medium share public lands counties (25-84% federal publicl cland), 69% ofc counties experienced growth in 2023. "Thisi is especially true in counties with National Park Service land, as search and rescue incidents have increased every year since 2019. vi From 20131 to 2023, counties with 25-84% share of publicl lands saw an average change in GDP of 23%. viip From 20131 to: 2023, counties with 85% or greater share ofp publicl lands saw an average change in GDP of 16%. iIn 2023, 50% (14 out of2 28) oft these counties with high share of public lands (85%6+) experienced a decline in population. *In October 2024, the average home value in high share counties (85%+) was $498,917 compared to $356,981 nationally. "States with 25% or more federal public land: Alaska, Arizona, California, Colorado, Idaho, Montana, Nevada, New Mexico, Oregon, Utah, Washington and' Wyoming. wiln 2017, expenditures int these counties totaled $463.7billion. In 2022, the number was $57731 billion. xii In 2017,total PILTP payments were $464.6 million. In 2022, the total payments were. $549.4 million. MiVE Beaver River Project Utah Shared Stewardship. paanslumdatmardnynAanyAaRPDaMeNepope wv While these five agencies manage the large majority ofp public land, other managing agencies include the Bureau of Ocean Energy Management and the Bureau ofl Indian Affairs. wVI Congressional Research Service (2020,F Feb. 21). Federal land ownership: overview and data - CRS. htps/leseporiscongressgow/poductpd'n R42346. w Podcast: Talking with Public Lands CountyLeaders, Part Il U County News. p/wwnsoghewspanaaalmppancanntscoump-eadespar wvi In: 2023, counties with a medium shares of publicl lands grew inj population at a higher rate and declined inp population at a lower rate than non-public lands counties. Medium share of public lands in a county as mentioned here includes those with 25-84% ofp public lands within theirj jurisdiction. xixl Int this context, modest growth is defined as 2% or more, slight growthi is between 0a and 2%, slight decline is between Oand -2% and modest decline is -2% or less. AS Split Story: Economic Trends in Public Lands Counties I 37 xx Hjerpe, Evan; Hussain, Anwar; Holmes, Thomas. 2020.Amenity migration and public lands: Rise of the protected areas. Environmental Management. 66(1): 567.mps/dcing/01col490923-0200286 xi Congressional Research Service (2024, May 7). Search and Rescue (SAR) Operations on Federal Lands CRS. gplaayendrast saiil The park carried out at least 400 backcountry evacuations that year, the most reported in 20 years. xxiin McGivney, A. (2022, Jan. 1). Everyone came ato once: america's national parks recon with record-smashing year The Guardian. tps/w.heguardlancomemuomen/u2enolnstonepansustoursm.cromdsbus, xwivl In 2023, 140 ofi the 28 counties (50%) with 85% orr more public land saw growth inj population, and half saw decline. Every other category ofo county saw higher rates of growth: 58% (no public land), 59% (low shares) and 69% (medium shares), XKV Ibid. xxVI White Pine County, Nevada. Budget & Finance. p/wwsahtepnecauntyan2tPugeHfimane XXVII 'Ini the lasti teny years, these counties have seen a! 99% increase in average home value, with 56% of that change occurring from 2020 to 2024. AN.I1 12 of the 14t top states atr risk for wildfires are located in the West, where nearly halft the land is federally owned. xxix Insurance Information Institute (2018, Apr. 4). Background on: Wildfires - III. ps/wwwaliagarcehacgoumcomwildires xxx Solis,J J.( (2024, Dec. 16). As destructive wildfires grow, western statest face al home insurance crisis - Nebraska Examiner. mtps./nebrasaeaminercom/A2isasdsinvhewldiregpewsustNPAceatome-insurancecisis. xxx Flavelle, C. (2024, Dec. 18). Insurers. Are Deserting Homeowners as Climate Shocks Worsen - The New York Times. mps/wanyimescomimencten2neidimsdinseinsunce-roenewaldimteafsis.hm! xxxii For counties with 85 percent or more ofp publicl lands, the average home value index was $498,917 compared to $356,981 nationally in October of2024. xxxii 44% of homes ini the: 28 counties with 85% or higher shares of public lands were built before 1980, xV Flor,H H. (2024, July 8). Petersburg developsi tiny home designs in hopes ofe easing housing market - KTO0. ntps/WWwXDO0Ig/2022-0708patensbup.debpsinyhome-deips-iphopesdkeasing-housing.market, xXV Suppe, R. (2024, Aug.5). Blaine County debuts affordable housing for school employees Idahol Edi News, ntps/www.dahoedhewsoglopnewslblainecoumydebutsafoudabe-housinpibrschoo-emplyees. KOVIL Lawson, M. (2024, Sept. 12). Economic Impact of National Parks Headwaters Economics, mtps/Peadwatersecomonicsorypublic-ands, ctdlandetmomeimpse -of-national-parksl, xvii Counties with 25-84% ofp public land have grown their GDP over. 5% more than counties without publicl lands, Economic output (GDP)i is ar measure of aggregate goods and: services produced within a geographic area. xxxVli Solis, J.( (2024, Oct. 25). Feds approvel Rhyolite Ridgel lithium mine inl Nevada Nevada Current. mpe/medsoumemtom22TVr2sna-pmerhaile-epiliummiehehamadta-heeiaNaumentiysganyag0 oneaccoring*200m20l0A20omern25X2Xcheduingw20estimates. XXXX Disaster Field Operations Center West.( (2024, Dec. 10). SBAI Economic Injury Disaster Loans Available to Idaho Small Businesses - U.S. Small Business Administration. mtps/wwsbagowartie22472n0lbxecomomicnuny-dsten-lonsaralaleidaliosmal-pusineses. 38 I A Split Story: Economic Trends in Public Lands Counties * Data Source: U.S. Department of Commerce.. 2023. Census Bureau, American Community Survey Office, Washington, D.C, as reported in Headwaters Economics' Economic Profile System haduatenemomisogyen, xli Ibid. slii Greater Zion Convention & Tourism Office (2024,June 6). Yeari in Review. 2023. Annual Report - Greater Zion. ntps/lssuucom/geater.Zoncrcageamuaalrepor-2023-wel. xlii Data Source: U.S. Department of Commerce. 2023. Bureau ofEconomic Analysis, Regional Economic, Accounts, Washington, D.C., reported by Headwaters Economics' Economic Profile System, adatenscomomisogeps xliv Condos, D. (2024,Feb.6 6). How one of the nation's fastest growing counties plans to find wateri in the desert - KUNC. pawwlaueagheawesatwnedea. *Tan,C.(2024,Apil 5).Sublette Countyi is growing thet fastest in Wyoming - Wyoming! Public Media. mtps/Nwmwwapomingpubicadaoylpmnyeemony22-0AGSNuDete-caumygowmgpng.lme-lses-nayoming xiv Data Source: U.S. Census Bureau, Population Estimates. htps./wwwcensusgow/gucAtatissubettecountywyoming. xVH Data Source: U.S. Department of Commerce. 2023. Bureau of Economic Analysis, Regional Economic Accounts, Washington, D.C.; U.S. Depart- ment ofLabor. 2024. Bureau ofl Labor Statistics, Quarterly Census ofE Employment and' Wages, Washington, D.C., reported by Headwaters Economics' Economic Profile System eawtenscmomisape. sivay Ibid. xlix Data Source: U.S. Department of Commerce. 2023. Census Bureau, American Community Survey Office, Washington, D.C, as reported in Headwa- ters Economics' Economic Profile System headhaensemomtcsogep, Spencer, T. (2024, Oct. 25). As the tourism industry grows in Pocahontas County, rising housing and rent prices are: squeezing esidents - Mountain State Spotlight. palmounanutatsgatigtoypnawnsiesin.m2pepahuatastautm. "U.S. Department of Commerce. 2024. Census Bureau, American Community Survey Office, Washington, D.C, as reported in Headwaters Economics' Economic Profile System, headatersecmomesopeps li U.S. Department of Commerce. 2023. Bureau of Economic Analysis, Regional Economic Accounts, Washington, D.C., reported by Headwaters Economics' Economic Profile System, eacwateeonomisopeps lii U.S. Department of Commerce. 2023. Bureau of Economic. Analysis, Regional Economic Accounts, Washington, D.C.; U.S. Department of Labor. 2024. Bureau ofL Labor Statistics, Quarterly Census of Employment and' Wages, Washington, D.C. lv Ban, C.( (2024, Aug. 12). Public lands challenges are as varied as their counties County News. htps/Nwww.nacorg/newsputielandschalllengesare-ared. their-counties. W States with 25% or more federal public land: Alaska, Arizona, California, Colorado, Idaho, Montana, Nevada, New Mexico, Oregon, Utah, Washington and' Wyoming. lvi NACO interviews with state associations, as well as county and state officials; NACO analysis of state legislation. Iv Gentry, D.( (2023, March 15). Lawmakers try again to tweak property tax caps - Nevada Current. htps/neadaourentcomtom/220Anslammales-tryagainip-iwek property-tax-caps, Ma NACO interviews with state associations, as well as county and state officials; NACO analysis of state legislation. A Split Story: Economic Trends in Public Lands Counties 39 Program Pymentialaydlasein) Secure Rural Schools (SRS) Year Enacted 1976 2000 Purpose Helpl local governments offset losses Compensate for steep reductions in revenues inj property taxes from timber harvests, which resulted from duet tot the existence of non- national policies that substantially diminished rev- taxable Federal lands within enue-generating activities within federal forests. their boundaries. % U.S. Entitlement Land 62% 24% Uses of Payments Any governmental purpose Roads, schools and other municipal services Total Payment $621.2r million (FY2024) $272.6 million (FY: 2023) kx In 2017,6 expenditures ini these counties totaled $463.7 billion. In 2022, the number was $5773 billion. In In 2017,t total PILT payments were $464.6 million. In 2022, thet total payments were $549.4 million. Ini Ban, C.( (2024, Nov. 18). Gateway counties remain wary of National Park Service crowd control plans County News. ps/wmwansonynewsgepatyoumeemainystompaianem.cecowdcomtoiglans kuy lackson/eton County Affordable Housing. Workforce Homes. ps/mmatbncoumymgowgewaMenore-ames: hyN Nevada County California Community Development Agency. South Yuba River Public Safety Cohort. ps/wwaneatscounyeageAASwIDhRerPaliesatlyCohur. ly About Larimer Connects (Emergency Management) - Larimer County. itps//wwwlarmergowemegeneylammerr-comnects/about. kxv Federal Emergency Management Agency. Disaster Declarations for States and Counties - FEMA. ps/hwwatemagownidaa-isualraiondsase: declarations-states-and-counties. lvi Beaver River Project Utah Shared ewardémphmtps/utahnainahatanosimatpuannihbargscompgeeslbeaverfivergojet lxym Podcast: Talking with Public Lands County Leaders, PartVI - County News. p/nmwanscaopmespoaalppaNc.meiandscoumy-leadespartw. hxUSF Forest Service (2022, Feb. 11). Coconino NF proud to be parto of USDA's 10- year plant toi fight wildfires in Arizona - USFS. ps/wsusagpwimnsdesbhsinpnsausomltelerlvoutimoanfgoud be-part-usdas- 10- yearplan-fght-ldites. lax Blueprint for partnering with local communities onh housing USFS, ps/wwaisusagowimsbeehagpmisivecenlwpipmeysakcommunilieshousing lm] Ibid. k Ban, C.( (2024, Nov. 18). Gateway counties remain wary of National Park Service crowd control plans - County News. mps/Nwwnaconghnewsgiegyoumteyenarmaymatonpart-snite-crowd-comtok plans. Ixx Ban,C.( (2025, Mar.27). Counties search for footing amid federal workforce cuts County News. psnamwmsophnescouteirdsnpamdhtma-omoreaurs: 40 I A Split Story: Economic Trends in Public Lands Counties Data Sources Federally Owned Land Acreage: NACO Analysis of U.S. Geological Survey (USGS) Protected Areas Database, 2023. Available at www.usgs.gov. Population: NACO Analysis ofl U.S. Census Bureau Population Estimates Program, 2023.Available at data.census.gov. Gross Domestic Product (GDP): NACO Analysis of Woods & Poole Economics, Inc. 2023 Complete Economic and Demographic Data Source (CEDDS). Available at wwwawpodsanpolecom. Employment by Industry: NACO Analysis of Woods & Poole Economics, Inc. 2023 Complete Economic and Demographic Data Source (CEDDS). Available at wwwawoodsan@polecom. Home Value: NACO analysis of Zillow Home Value Index (ZHVI) All Homes (SFR, Condo/Co-op) Time Series, Smoothed, Seasonally Adjusted, 2024. Available at www.Zilow.com. Industry and Long-Term Population Change: U.S. Department of Commerce. 2022, Bureau ofE Economic. Analysis, Regional Economic Accounts, Washington, D.C., reported by Headwaters Economics' Economic Profile System, eadwalesecomomicsayeps Individual County Indicators: NACO Analysis of the U.S. Bureau ofE Economic Analysis Local Area Gross Domestic Product, 2022 Vintage. Secure Rural Schools: NACO analysis of datai from the U.S. Forest Service. Paymenti in Lieu ofl Taxes: NACO Analysis of datai from the U.S. Department of the Interior. County Revenues: NACO Analysis ofU.S. Census Bureau Census ofl Individual Governments: Finance. County Expenditures: NACO Analysis ofU.S. Census Bureau - 2022 Census of Individual Governments: Finance. A Split Story: Economic Trends in Public Lands Counties 41 National Center for Public Lands Counties Take a Closer Look at Your County's Data: County Explorer Economic Profiles Find recent data updates and other insights on NACO's County Explorer tool, a one-stop shop for accessing county level indicators, I with over 1,000 maps from over 100 datasets available at ce.naco.org. Join the Public Lands Conversation on the National Center for Public Lands Counties Knowledge Hub The Public Lands Counties Knowledge Hub is a place to engage with our resources, access toolkits and land use plans and connect with peer counties across the country to discuss public land issues. To learn more about the National Center for Public Lands Counties and how your county can get involved, access resources or contribute to the effort, contact us at ncplc@naco.org. ASSOCIATION NATIONAL 660 North Capitol Street, N.W. COUNTIES. NACo. Suite 400 . Washington, D.C. 20001 202.393.6226 - WWW.NACo.org FB.COM/NACODC TWITERCOWNACAIWEETS YOUTUBECOM/NACOVIDEO WWW.NACAORG/INKEDIN Bonita Peak Mining District Community Advisory Group (CAG) Representative Jeff Hurd (CO-3) U.S. House of Representatives 1641 Longworth House Office Building Washington, DC 20515 Sent via email to: Michael Defilippis, Legislative Director Michaelderuppis@malL.house.ox May 22, 2025 Dear Representative Hurd, The Bonita Peak Community, Advisory Group (CAG) serves as an informational conduit between the diverse community interests and U.S. EPA and its governmental partners with regard to their activities at the Bonita Peak Mining District Superfund Site and the effects on the Animas River watershed within Colorado. Our group is composed of citizens from both San Juan County and La Plata County, with appointed representatives from both counties and the Town of Silverton and the City of Durango. We communicate with local government and the community through ol-monthly meetings and targeted outreach. With the many changes in government spending and management brought on by the current Administration, we want to bring several issues to your attention, most of which are ongoing concerns. Generally, the CAG is fully aligned with San Juan and La Plata Counties. San Juan County and the Town of Silverton were promised a seat at the decision-making table during the initial site listing. The CAG appreciates this ongoing involvement, and we will continue to support these stakeholders in improving water quality in the Animas River watershed. Specifically, the CAG is asking for your support of the following priorities: Hire contractors and complete the sludge repository this season. This is a vital component for the continuing function of the interim water treatment plant at Gladstone, as well as for a permanent water treatment plant. Prioritize the design and implementation of a permanent water treatment plant at Gladstone. This facility was designed and installed as an 'interim' treatment plant in 2015 as a response to the Gold King mine spill. The facility now needs to be thoughtfully considered as a primary way of treating the heaviest loads of acid mine drainage in the area. Have EPA identify how to capture more drainage from adjacent adits and improve efficiency at the plant. Retain the current project managers to maintain construction and site efficiency. The project managers have a solid working relationship with the communities and local officials and the project would benefit from their continued involvement. This includes project managers from the EPA as well as from the BLM and USFS. Knowledge and communication has been built over many years and will set the program back if lost. Developing a local repository has been a critical step for remediation at this Superfund site. We are concerned that planned use starting this season will be delayed due to the inability to award a contract for that work. The CAG recognizes that EPA efforts in the last few years have led to better definition of water quality conditions, assessment of risks to aquatic and terrestrial life, and further characterization of the multiple sources of metals. We feel that there is enough information to set defined water quality goals, develop a plan to meet those goals, and take immediate steps to improve water quality. Decisions made now will affect the citizens of this watershed for decades. Public engagement was a condition set by San Juan County and the Town of Silverton requesting the Superfund designation. We appreciate the efforts of current staff working with our communities to make long-term positive outcomes. Thank you for your attention to our concerns. We welcome an onsite meeting to familiarize you with the site and further discuss our concerns. Sincerely, Chana JRyhe Chara Ragland, Ph.D. Chair, Bonita Peak CAG CC: Senator Michael Bennet, Durango Staff Senator John Hickenlooper, Durango Staff Board of County Commissioners, San Juan County, CO Board of County Commissioners, La Plata County, CO Charlie Smith, Chair, Southwestern Water Conservation Board Dayna Kranker, Mayor, Town of Silverton Gilda Yazzie, Mayor, City of Durango Jared Polis, Governor of Colorado Mark Rudolph, Colorado Dept. of Public Health and Environment