Mesa County will provide planning assistance to the Town of De Beque under a new, one-year agreement. The Mesa County Commission approved the agreement Aug. 11 at its administrative public hearing, and it took effect Aug. 18.

According to a news release from the county, the agreement gives De Beque access to county planning staff when additional support is needed. The town will pay Mesa County $30,000 to cover staff time and routine expenses. The partnership provides another way for the town to address planning applications and questions while keeping decisions at the local level.

At De Beque’s request, Mesa County may help:

• Review development applications, site plans, subdivisions and permit requests.
• Answer planning questions and interpret town land-use rules.
• Prepare reports and present information at public meetings.

De Beque will continue to make all final decisions. Mesa County staff will provide information and recommendations, but will not take over the town’s planning authority. The agreement does not include legal or engineering services.