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Broadband - VAR Transition 2022

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1. Will this affect my internet service delivery?

There will be no disruption to your internet service delivery through the transition to another provider.

2. Do I need to initiate a move to a different provider?

Currently any customers that do not move to another provider will be transitioned to an alternative provider on September 1st, 2022 automatically. You are welcome to choose another provider at any time, however. If you do decide to choose an alternate provider, please notify us by sending a message to net_service@rbc.us

3. When is the transition taking place?

Visionary will continue to support current customers until October 1st, 2022. At that time Rio Blanco County will take over support for your account, and you will be notified when that happens.

4. Where do I make payments after the transition?

After the transition, you will receive payment instructions for your new provider.

5. Who do I call for technical support?

You may continue to call Visionary until September 1st. After that you will need to call your assigned provider.

6. What service providers are currently active on the Rio Blanco Broadband network?

Currently Cimarron Telecommunications and Visionary Broadband are active providers on the Rio Blanco Broadband network. Rio Blanco County recently released an invitation for Letters of Interest to gauge interest from other providers.

(Updated 2022-06-01)

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CP - Functionality Test

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1. How is the weather?

It is 60 degrees. For more information, please visit Google.

2. What day is today?

Today is Thursday. For more information, please visit Google.

3. Question

Answer

4. Can I apply online?

answer here

5. Do I have to license my pets?

Answer here.

6. Where can I sign up for utilities?

Answer here

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CSU 4-H

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1. Who may enroll?

To be a member of 4-H in Colorado, youth may be no younger than 5 years old no older than 18 years old on December 31st of the current enrollment year. The Colorado 4-H enrollment is open 365 days a year for new members. The enrollment year begins October 1st.  Returning members must re-enroll by February 1.  The age of participants in 4-H programs is determined by the age of each youth on December 31st of the enrollment year. Cloverbuds is the name given to the non-competitive Colorado 4-H Youth Development Program for 5 to 7 year-olds.

2. Who is in charge of 4-H?

4-H is sponsored in Colorado by Extension of Colorado State University. Nationally, it is part of Extension Service in the U.S. Department of Agriculture. The people in charge of 4-H locally are the County Extension Director & Ag Agent Linda Masters, 4-H Coordinators Tera Shults and Jayda Lewis and Admin Support Inge Bair supported in part by your Rio Blanco County Commissioners.

3. What do the 4 H's stand for?

Head, Heart, Hands, and Health. The 4-H members pledge is as follows:
- "I pledge"
- "My head to clearer thinking,"
- "My heart to greater loyalty,"
- "My hands to larger service, and"
- "My health to better living"
- "For my club, my community, my country, and my world."

4. What is the 4-H Emblem?

A green four-leaf clover with a white H on each cloverleaf is the 4-H emblem. The official emblem is copyrighted and may be used only as approved by 4-H.

5. Why do young people like 4-H?

They have fun with friends at meetings, social activities, tours, camps and fairs. They learn to do interesting things such as: taking pictures, carving leather, teaching dogs obedience, learning to sew and cook, collecting bugs, identifying weeds, and making rockets fly. Some help with 4-H educational programs.

6. How do you join?

Call the Extension Office at 970-878-9490 in Meeker or 970-878-9495 in Rangely or a local 4-H leader to see if there is space within a club. If not, several interested young people with an adult or two to help them may start a new club. Check with the Extension office to find out what projects and activities are available.

7. How do you get a new 4-H club organized?

First, you need to contact the Extension Office at 970-878-9490 in Meeker or 970-878-9495 in Rangely. Next, meet with interested young people and adults who are willing to help. You can also publicize it through schools, etc. where young people and their parents can be reached.

8. What do you do at the first meeting?

The first meeting usually is for getting acquainted and having fun with a group mixer and/or some refreshments. You can also begin with show and tell about projects the group might like. Give this some thought in advance and talk with the 4-H youth agent for ideas. Discuss when, where and how often the group will meet.

9. What about officers?

4-H clubs have the officers and committees they need to run their own business. 4-H has materials available for presidents, vice-presidents, secretaries, treasurers, news reporters and recreation leaders. It is a good idea to wait until the second or third meeting to elect officers.

10. How often do 4-H clubs meet?

Some clubs meet every week for one or two months and some meets once or twice a month all year long. This depends on the group and what it wants to do. 4-H clubs may organize any time of the year. Sometimes members have to be enrolled in a project by a certain time to be eligible for a specific activity. Check on this with your Extension Office at 970-878-9490 in Meeker or 970-878-9495 in Rangely.

11. Where do 4-H clubs meet?

Clubs meet any place large enough for all their members. Some clubs meet in leaders' or members' homes. Some meet in a central place such as a school, church, community room or fairgrounds.

12. How big should a club be?

This depends on the age of the members, the places they have to meet and the leadership available. The ideal club is big enough to have fun together, but small enough for everyone to feel a part of the group. Clubs may have limited enrollments due to the leaders' willingness to work with a certain age group or club size.

13. What are 4-H projects?

4-H projects are learning experiences for 4-H members. Over 60 projects are currently available from Colorado State University Extension.

14. What does a 4-H project cost?

There may be a minimal enrollment fee along with additional costs varying from project to project. For example, members enrolled in cake decorating might use supplies from around the kitchen to practice the skills they are learning and have no additional expense. Whereas, members enrolled in horse may buy and keep a horse investing hundreds of dollars. Discussion of cost is important as a project is selected. It should be realistic to the family situation.

15. Should 4-H members do their own project work?

Yes, with help. 4-H is a learn by doing program. Leaders, junior leaders and parents may tell or show a member how to do things themselves.

16. What is an exhibit?

An exhibit is an object of display that 4-H members show at the Rio Blanco County Fair or a designated Exhibit Day. This is designed to help young people feel they are capable and have accomplished something. Ideally, it motivates them to learn and to have fun in a 4-H project. An exhibit is not an end in itself, nor does it measure the learning that takes place in a project. The ribbon the exhibit receives is only one measure of success. Other important rewards are self-recognition and self-satisfaction for having completed a project, leadership skills, and learning something new.

17. Are projects done individually or as a group?

Both. Some projects are more fun when done as a group. Others will be done individually by each member of the group.

18. What 4-H projects are available?

There are many projects from which to choose. Here is a sampling to show the variety available:
- Beef
- Cake Decorating
- Child Care
- Clothing
- Cloverbuds
- Dog
- Fishing
- Foods
- Goat
- Heritage Arts
- Home Environment
- Horse
- Junior Leadership
- Leather Craft
- Model Rocketry
- Photography
- Poultry
- Rabbits
- Sheep
- Shooting Sports
- Swine
- Veterinary Science

19. What do 4-H clubs do at meetings?

4-H clubs usually do four general kinds of things: project work, business meetings, recreation or social activities and special interest programs.

20. Do they do all of those things at one meeting?

Sometimes. If they have a little business to conduct, then they work on their projects for a while and maybe play a game or two. Sometimes the whole meeting is devoted to one thing. For example, everyone brings a dog and practices obedience training, or they elect officers and plan the club program, or they have a bowling party, or tour a local bakery.

21. Who plans the program for the club?

Members of the club and the leader plan the program. If their club is small, this might be done at a meeting of the whole group. If the club is large, ideas come from everybody and a committee of the club puts together a program.

22. When do clubs meet and how long do meetings last?

This depends on the group. Many clubs meet for an hour or two after school, in the evenings or on Saturday. The most important thing is to have a regular time to get together, one that members and their families can remember.

23. How can parents get involved in 4-H?

Parents are invited to 4-H meetings so they can see how leaders work with clubs. 4-H will work best if parents can make a commitment to help support the 4-H leader. 4-H leaders are volunteers. Parents help with 4-H work if they have the time and desire to do so. Leaders may ask parents to help with specific jobs. Parental involvement is encouraged. Parents can also become 4-H leaders.

24. What is a 4-H leader?

An adult who has applied with the local Colorado State University Extension, attended a leader training class and works voluntarily with a group of 4-H members.

25. Are there different kinds of leaders?

Yes. Some adults teach members how to do things and are called project leaders. They usually have a special interest of skill such as photography, clothing or rocketry. Sometimes big clubs divide jobs and have several project leaders to meet all the interests of the 4-H members.

26. What about teenagers who help with 4-H?

Most counties have junior leaders who are also 4-H members. They work under the guidance of an adult and help with any of the leadership jobs in the club or county. It depends on their ability and experience. Junior leaders are wonderful help to adult leaders.

27. How many leaders would a 4-H club have?

The number of leaders depends on the size of the club and the number of members.

28. Where would I learn how to be a 4-H leader?

The first step is to contact your local Colorado State University Extension agent at 970-878-9490 in Meeker or 970-878-9495 in Rangely. Cooperative Extension has many support services for leaders. Leaders are placed on special mailing lists, invited to special training meetings and workshops, and given materials needed to organize a 4-H club. Be sure to ask any question you have, and visit with other leaders if you wish.

29. Whom would you contact about 4-H?

Call 970-878-9490 in Meeker or 970-878-9495 in Rangely or stop by your local Extension Office. The Meeker office is located at the fairgrounds on Sulphur Creek Road, open Monday through Thursday from 8 a.m. to noon and 1 to 5 p.m. and Friday by appointment. The Rangely office is located in the Western Annex building at 17497 State Highway 64, open Monday through Thursday from noon to 6 p.m. We are more than happy to visit with you about the 4-H program in Rio Blanco County.

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Human Services

Show All Answers

1. How do I access community resources?

Call 211.

2. How do I adopt a child?

Call us at 970-878-9640 or visit the Adoption Exchange.

3. How do I apply for food stamps?

Visit Colorado Department of Human Services Division of Food and Energy.

4. How do I apply for Medicaid?

Applications for Medicaid can be picked up at the Meeker or Rangely Offices. Or apply online at PEAK

Colorado PEAK.

5. How do I find local child care providers?

Call us at 970-878-9640 for a current list or visit the Colorado Child Care Facility Search.

6. How do I find out if I have Medicaid coverage?

Visit PEAK to see if you have Medicaid coverage and to request your Medicaid cards. 

online.

7. How do I find out more about becoming a foster parent?

Call us at 970-878-9640.

8. How do I get food from the food bank?

In Meeker, call 970-878-4554. In Rangely, call 970-675-5324 or 970-675-8601.

9. How do I get help for my elderly parent?

Call us at 970-878-9640.

10. How do I get help with my prescription drug or medical coverage?

Visit the Colorado Department of Health Care Portal.

11. How do I get help with my rent or utilities?

Call us at 970-878-9640.

12. How do I report child abuse or neglect?

Everyone in the community plays a role in the prevention of child abuse and neglect. Colorado has one toll-free phone number to report child abuse and neglect 24/7, 365 days a year. Please call the Colorado Child Abuse and Neglect Hotline at 844-CO-4-KIDS (844-264-5437) to report concerns about a child’s safety and well-being. All calls are confidential and will be routed to the county where a child resides. If it is an emergency or you are witnessing a child in a life-threatening situation, call 911 immediately.

13. How do I get help weatherizing my house?

Call 800-332-3669.

14. How do I access domestic violence services?

In Meeker, call 970-878-3131. In Rangely, call 970-675-5729.

15. Where do I get a LEAP application?

Applications can be picked up at the DHS office's in Meeker and Rangely. Electronic applications are available from 

Colorado Leap

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Landfill

Show All Answers

1. Can I bring e-waste to the landfill?

No, e-waste must be recycled and is not allowed to be disposed of at the landfill. Large electronics stores such as Best Buy will take electronics. Also check with Overton Recycling in Meeker at (970) 683-8219.

2. Can I dispose of old tires?

Individuals may dispose of up to 9 rimless tires. Businesses are not allowed to dispose of tires and must find a legal recycling method for waste tires. Overton Recycling is one local alternative and may be reached at (970) 683-8219.

3. What is the Landfill Coupon program?

All households of Rio Blanco County are given a coupon that allows one free load to be disposed of at the landfill. The maximum load would be one pickup and trailer. No commercial businesses, and there are other restrictions listed on the coupon.

4. When do you mail the annual Landfill Coupons?

Generally the coupons are mailed out in early March. If you don't receive one, please call the Admin. Office and we'll add you to the mailing list.

5. Does the Landfill accept credit or debit cards for payment?

No, the Landfill currently doesn't accept credit cards. Cash or checks are acceptable forms of payment. Also, charge accounts may be set up if credit is approved.

6. When is the landfill open to the public?

The Landfill is open to the public from Monday through Saturday, 8:00 AM to 4:30 PM.

7. Can I dispose of old refrigerators?

All refrigerant-containing appliances brought to the landfill for disposal must have verification from a certified technician that the proper evacuation of CFCs has occurred. This requirement is in accordance with the 1990 Clean Air Act which recognized the impact of CFCs (chlorofluorocarbons) to the ozone layer of the atmosphere. Call the Landfill Admin. Office at (970) 878-9590 for more information.

8. How do I set up an account with the landfill?

Call the Landfill Admin. Office at (970) 878-9590 or go to that section on the Landfill page.

9. Can I dispose an old mobile home?

Demolition or disposal of old homes or mobile homes is subject to State of Colorado Asbestos Abatement regulations. Look for the link to the State of Colorado hazardous waste website on this page.

10. How much will disposal of my household waste cost?

The landfill charges by weight. The rate for most household waste is $40 per ton (2,000 pounds) or 2 cents per pound.

11. Where is the landfill?

The landfill address is 1496 County Road 72. To get there, take State Highway 64 to approx. Mile Marker 55.5 and go north on County Road 72 about 1.4 miles. Click on the map icon on the landfill page for a map.

12. Can I bring an old vehicle to the landfill?

Only if you have a title for the vehicle, there are no fluids, and any refrigerant has been removed by a state-certified specialist. Cost is $20 for each vehicle.

13. Does the landfill take asbestos?

The landfill is certified to accept friable and non-friable asbestos, but only if it is pre-approved, the proper procedures are followed and it is handled and wrapped in a specific manner. See the asbestos section on the landfill page and check out the State of Colorado webpage under Quick Links.

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Planning & Natural Resources - Impact Fees

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1. How will the impact fee work?

The impact fee is a one time fee, not an ongoing fee or tax. It is imposed on new construction or development occurring in the unincorporated area of Rio Blanco County. The fee will be assessed at the permitting stage of a project. Impact fees collected must be held in a special account and can only be used to pay for capital facilities made necessary by the new development.

The impact fees cannot be used for maintenance and repair of existing capital facilities. For example, impact fees cannot be used to patch a road, but they can be used to build a new road or upgrade a road from County specifications to State specifications so it can withstand the heavy truck traffic.

2. What will be subject to the impact fee?

Any new development, residential, non-residential commercial, or industrial, which creates additional demand in those areas defined by the impact fee studies will be assessed the impact fee, based on the values and fees determined in the studies. For example, a new house would incur an impact fee of $2,043.

3. What will not be subject to the impact fee?

Reconstruction, expansion, alteration or replacement of an existing residential unit. Unoccupied buildings accessory to a residential unit. Construction of residences valued under the $250,000 affordable housing limit. Any development activities within the town limits of Meeker or Rangely. Any development that can demonstrate it will not create additional impacts.

4. When does the new impact fee actually go into effect?

Any project permitted after July 14, 2008 is subject to the impact fee. As to wells, any well spud on or after that date, regardless of the date permitted or date of construction of the pad, is subject to the impact fee regulations.

5. How will the fees collected be used?

All impact fees collected must by law be kept in a fund separate from other County monies and can only be spent on new capital facilities made necessary by new developments in the County. They cannot be used to pay for operations or for past deficiencies. The capital items identified by the RPI study were impacted roads ($330 million), justice center ($7.8 million), and administrative facilities ($5.7 million).

There are additional capital items, such as schools, hospitals and items for each municipality which are not included in the RPI study or the impact fees, but which are very real needs. The impact fee cannot be expected to pay 100% of the cost of the impacts on County infrastructure. By law the County will have to pay for a portion of the impact through existing sources, such as property taxes, severance taxes and mineral leasing funds.

6. How would this work for a new industrial facility, for example a gravel pit?

For a new gravel pit, the fees would be applied to the structures and road impacts for the opening of the pit. The fees on the gravel hauled from the pit would be captured with each new project, paid by the project developers, not by the gravel pit or the individual truckers. Also, materials hauled for projects not requiring development permits would not be subject to the fee, such as graveling the road to an existing house.

7. How are the impact fees calculated for projects that do not have a given amount in the fee schedule?

For industrial projects, the fee is primarily based on the ESAL (Equivalent Single Axle Load) estimate. For residential and non-residential commercial building projects the fee is based the size of the building and is calculated per 1000 sq. ft. (unit) or parts of units. Impact Fees

8. How was the affordable housing level of $250,000 determined?

The state statute allows for an affordable housing exemption. The level of the exemption was calculated using the average mortgage borrowing power of the median household income in Rio Blanco County.

9. Can fees (i.e. impact fees, Temporary Use Permit) fees, etc be sent in on one check?

Yes, please make sure that the information for each fee is listed separately on the check stub or separate sheet so we know where to direct the funds and will be able to credit your account correctly.

10. Where should we send the check?

Impact Fees related to buildings should be paid to:
Building Department
P.O. Box 599
Meeker, CO, 81641

Please contact the Building Division at 970-878-9450 with any questions.

Impact Fees related to oil or gas wells should be paid to:
Rio Blanco County Treasurer
P.O. Box 651
Meeker, CO 81641

Please contact Debbie Morlan at 970-878-9610 with any questions. The following identifying information must be provided along with payment:
- COGCC API Number -OR- a copy of the spud notice
- Drilling Date
- Name of Fee Payer/Company
- Well name and number

Impact Fees related to any other development activities, any planned unit development, special use permit, conditional use permit, temporary use permit, special use license, or subdivision plat will be calculated during the permitting process and should be paid to:
Planning and Development Department
P.O. Box 599
Meeker, CO, 81641

Please contact the Planning Department at 970-878-9584 with any questions.

11. If we are doing a re-entry on a well, will we owe new impact fees?

If your re-entry requires a new APD, we will consider this a new well and it will require new impact fees and TUP.

12. If we put an impact fee toward a specific well and end up not drilling the well, will our fee be refunded?

Yes, we can refund the fee or change the well designation.

13. Are impact fees due on Temporary Living Quarters (TLQ) permits?

The fees are already included with the well impact fee for Type I TLQs on a well pad so no further fee is necessary. All TLQs not associated with a well will be subject to the fee whether they are under a Temporary Use Permit or a Special Use Permit.

14. When are the fees due?

Before you begin construction on a pad, a well TUP application must be submitted and approved and all impact fees paid. For new wells on an existing pad, a well TUP application must be submitted and approved and impact fees paid before spudding the well. For all other projects, the impact fees are due at permitting.

15. Does a Temporary Use Permit (TUP) expire? Does a Special Use Permit (SUP) expire?

Temporary Use Permits are good for 6 months with a 6 month extension upon request. Special Use Permits are usually good for the life of a project unless otherwise specified.

16. Where can I get more details on the impact fee?

All documents related to the Impact Fee are available on the Rio Blanco County website under the Development and Planning section. Additionally, any questions can be addressed to the individuals listed above. For further information contact the Planning Department.

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Public Trustee

Show All Answers

1. My mortgage has been paid off, how is the release handled?

Generally, your mortgage company will present the information pertaining to your paid-off loan to the Public Trustee for release. After recording the release, this lien will no longer be attached to your property. If a mailing address is provided by your mortgage company at this time, the release will be returned to you.

2. I want to purchase a property at the sale, what is the process?

Public Trustee sales are scheduled for Wednesday at 10 a.m., in the Public Trustee's office. Please call the day before the sale to see if it is still scheduled. The sale is an auction, anyone can bid over the opening-bid amount that is submitted by the lender. If you are the successful bidder, you must be prepared to tender certified funds by noon on the day of the sale. If funds are not timely received, the sale will be awarded to the next successful bidder. A Certificate of Purchase will be issued to the successful bidder. After the end of all redemption periods, a Confirmation Deed will be issued to the holder of the Certificate of Purchase.

3. What are some of the costs of the Public Trustee?

Fees are typically submitted to the Public Trustee by the lender for releases, or by the attorney for foreclosure. Below is a list of some of the fees: - Certificate of Redemption: $43 - Confirmation Deed: $43 - Curing Default (Withdrawal): $48 for 1 page - Release of Deed of Trust: $28 for 1 page release; $5 for each additional page - Start of Foreclosure: Up to $500 The Public Trustee has many other fees, depending on the function performed. All fees and costs are set by Colorado State Statute.

4. My home is going to be foreclosed, what should I do?

Contact the Colorado Foreclosure Hotline, at 1-877-601-HOPE. This is a free service for homeowners who have missed a payment or are in danger of foreclosure. The Colorado Foreclosure Hotline connects homeowners with trained professional housing counselors. These counselors will help borrowers understand their options while working with the borrower and the lender to help avoid foreclosure. Call toll-free at 1-877-601-HOPE. From the Colorado Attorney General's office: You might receive offers of "help" from complete strangers in the mail, over the telephone, and at your door. Some of these people may attempt to steal the equity you have built up in your home. Don't sign any documents until you have had time to review them carefully. Contact a HUD-approved housing counselor or a private attorney to help you review and understand the documents. Remember - Any kind of "Deed" (warranty deed or quit claim deed) means you are selling your home. Contact your lender, explain your financial situation, and work out a payment plan. A foreclosure against your home officially begins when a document called a "Notice of Election and Demand" is recorded. You will receive formal notice of this document from your Public Trustee. The foreclosure sale of your property will take place between 110 and 125 calendar days (for non-agricultural property) after the Notice is recorded. The law gives you the right to bring your loan current to stop the foreclosure. To do this, you must file a Notice of Intent to Cure with your Public Trustee at least 15 days before the scheduled sale date. Contact the Public Trustee's office for further information or contact your private attorney for assistance.

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Rio Blanco Alerts

Show All Answers

1. What is Rio Blanco Alerts and why is it important to me?

Rio Blanco Alert is an emergency notification service that allows emergency officials to notify residents and businesses by telephone, cell phone, text message, email and social media regarding time-sensitive general and emergency notifications. Only authorized officials have access to the Rio Blanco Alert system.

2. When will Rio Blanco Alerts be used?

Any message regarding the safety, property or welfare of the community will be disseminated using the Rio Blanco Alerts system. These may include AMBER alerts, notifications of hazardous traffic or road conditions, boil water advisories or evacuation notices.

3. Does the Rio Blanco Alerts system replace other systems that have been used to provide time-sensitive information to residents?

This system is an enhancement to existing means of communication and is meant to supplement current or past systems used for mass notification.

4. Does the Rio Blanco Alerts system already have my telephone number, or do I need to sign up to receive Rio Blanco Alerts notifications?

The Rio Blanco Alerts database contains information received from public databases, including regional phone books. However, no resident should assume that their information is in the system. If you can not register online, you can call 970-878-9600 and speak with one of our communications specialists to complete your registration over the telephone. Or just send us an email with the following information: - Full Name - Address - Phone Numbers - Cell phone provider (if your want to receive text messages) and if you want to receive both Emergency and General Information calls.

CodeRED Online Registration

5. I have a business located in Rio Blanco County, can I arrange to have Rio Blanco Alerts contact my business?

Yes. When registering select the business option. Please note that emergency calls can only be delivered to a direct dial number. Automated attendants will disrupt the process and the calls will not be delivered. Businesses should register their main number and establish a procedure for distributing the Rio Blanco Alerts message to their workforce.

CodeRED Online Registration

6. What if I want to register additional numbers for my address?

You can add four phone numbers on the initial registration and you may start the registration process again and submit more numbers for the same address.

7. Can I receive text and email notifications?

Yes, during registration when adding phone numbers check the cell phone box and a drop down menu will give you several choices of cell phone providers to choose from. If you have a track phone or are not sure send yourself an email and the cell provider info will be present in the email. If you would like to receive email notifications provide the address in the email notification box of the registration form. Email notifications will come from the following email address: @rbc.us. CodeRED Online Registration

8. Is my personal information protected?

CodeRED is a service of Emergency Communications Network which takes security and privacy concerns very seriously. They will not sell, trade, lease or loan any data citizen supplied data to third parties.

9. How will I recognize a Rio Blanco Alerts message?

A Rio Blanco Alerts Emergency message will have a caller ID of 866-419-5000. A Rio Blanco Alerts General message will have a caller ID 855-969-4636. We suggest you program both numbers in your cell phone as a new contact and use “Rio Blanco Alerts Emergency” and “Rio Blanco Alerts General” as the contact name. If you need to replay the emergency notification message again, simply dial the number and you will be able to hear the message again.

10. What should I do if I receive a Rio Blanco Alerts message?

Listen carefully to the entire message. You will have the option to repeat the message by pressing any key. Do not call 911 for further information unless directed to do so or if you need immediate aid from the Police or Fire department.

11. I have a landline, and it does not work when the power goes out. How will the system be able to contact me?

Make sure you have at least one working corded telephone – and be sure to turn the ringer on. The Rio Blanco Alerts sign-up form allows you to indicate both a primary and alternate phone number. Cell phone and/or work phone numbers can be entered as alternate phone numbers. Both primary and alternate phone numbers will be contacted when a notification is sent.

CodeRED Online Registration

12. Will the Rio Blanco Alerts system leave a message on an answering machine?

Yes, the Rio Blanco Alerts system will leave a message on a machine or on voicemail. The Rio Blanco Alerts system will leave the entire message in one pass.

13. What happens if the line is busy?

If the line is busy, Rio Blanco Alerts will try two more times to connect.

14. What circumstances might prevent a message from being delivered to me?

- If your contact information has changed and you have not registered your new information. - If you only a landline at your residence, the power is out and you did not register an alternate phone number. - If your line is busy for an extended time and your calls do not forward to voicemail or an answering machine. - If you have a privacy manager on your main phone and you did not register an alternate phone number. Rio Blanco County will receive a report of undelivered calls and can instruct the Rio Blanco Alerts system to begin another round of calls to busy numbers. It is best to have an alternate phone number in the calling database for these situations.

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Sales Tax - Building Materials

Show All Answers

1. If I pre-paid use tax on my building project, how do I get exempt from paying sales tax?

When a contractor/home owner purchases building material to be used in a licensed project, a copy of the RBC Sales and Use Tax Exemption Certificate should be presented to the vendor showing that a tax has already been paid or is going to be paid. State sales tax should always be paid, since it is never collected on a building permit.

2. We are a contractor for an exempt organization, how do I prove the exemption?

If you a contractor building for an exempt organization, you should submit a DR0172 Contractor Application for Exemption Certificate. Once you receive the certificate from the State, present a copy to the Rio Blanco County Sales and Use Tax Department in conjunction with the building permit so no use tax is assessed. Also, when purchasing materials, give a copy to the vendor to exempt the purchase. The Exemption Certificate from the Department of Revenue is only valid for State and County taxes. If building or purchasing materials within a Town or City, please contact the jurisdiction to determine their exemption requirements.

DR0172 Contractor Application for Exemption (PDF)

3. If I have a County building permit, can I use it to purchase materials in other counties?

The exemption given in conjunction with the building permit is valid for all counties in Colorado except the City and County of Denver and the City and County of Broomfield. If you present a copy of your building permit and/ or your Use Tax Certificate at the time of purchase, you will be exempt from any local sales tax.

4. Why do we have to pay use tax? Why can't we just pay sales tax on the materials at the time of purchase?

The use tax was put in place because many materials are not available in our county. This means many contractors and consumers have to purchase in other jurisdictions. Even though we may lose the sale, with a use tax at least we can retain the sales tax revenue for our own jurisdiction. And most of the other jurisdictions have a higher tax rate, so on larger projects, it will save you quite a bit of money.

5. I had a subcontractor that gave one price for both labor and materials. How do I determine the material cost?

With a lump sum contractor, where there is no breakdown of labor and material, use a 50-50 breakdown. You can ask you subcontractor to provide the actual breakdown to you or they can email or fax it directly to the Sales and Use Tax office.

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Sales Tax - Consumer

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1. When do I need to pay Rio Blanco County sales tax?

Whenever there is a transfer of tangible personal property within Rio Blanco County.

2. Are there any exemptions for collecting the County sales tax?

Rio Blanco County opted exemptions are; gas, electricity, etc. for residential use; occasional sales by charitable organizations; farm equipment; school-related sales

3. Is there sales tax on food items?

If the food items are purchased for home consumption, no State sales tax is collected, but 3.6% Rio Blanco County sales tax is due. Ready made food items for immediate consumption, such as food served at restaurants, convenience store, catered events or grocery prepared deli meals, are taxable at both State and County. Please refer to the FYI Sales 4 (PDF).

4. Is there sales tax on delivery of items?

If the delivery cost is separated on the invoice and there was a choice of the delivery method, delivery is non-taxable. If the delivery is included in the overall costs, and not separated on the invoice, or there was no choice of delivery, delivery is taxable.

5. I believe that I overpaid my county sales tax. How do I request a refund?

All Rio Blanco County sales tax request for refunds are processed through the Colorado Department of Revenue. Complete the DR0137 Claim for Refund. The form and all back-up documentation should be sent to:
Department of Revenue
Business Tax Accounting
1375 Sherman Street
Room 208
Denver CO 80261

DR 0137 Claim for Refund (PDF)

6. Is there a deadline on how long I can request a refund?

By State Statue, all requests for refunds have a deadline of three years. This deadline is for both sales and use tax.

7. I need a letter stating I am not in any city limits.

If you call 970-878-9610 with the delivery address, we can verify the address is not in a city limits and send a letter giving the tax rate for items delivered to that address.

8. How do I prove that our organization is exempt from County sales tax?

If you are State exempt because you are a government or charitable organization and the items you want to purchase are for the organization's own use, present a copy of the exemption certificate at the time of purchase.

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Sales Tax - Motor Vehicles

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1. Why do I pay a use tax on motor vehicles?

A use tax is due at the time of registration because sales tax was not collected at the time of purchase. State Statutes give counties the authority to collect motor vehicle use tax.

2. How can I get a refund of motor vehicle use tax?

All refunds of Motor Vehicle use tax have to go through the Rio Blanco County Clerk’s office. Complete the refund form and submit all documentation that supports your claim. Lack of documentation can delay the process and your refund.

Motor Vehicles

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Sales Tax - Special Events

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1. Who needs a special sales event/multiple event license?

A special or multiple event license is for vendors that:
- Have mobile activity (only or in addition to a retail location) and travel to different jurisdictions to do retail sales
- Sell at only a limited number of events per year

2. Why do I have to have one if I have a Colorado State Sales Tax License?

Please view the Special/Multiple Event Functions.

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Sales Tax - Vendor

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1. Why do I need a State sales tax number to apply for the County's sales tax license?

Because the County is "Statutory" or "State Collected", all Rio Blanco County sales tax is remitted to the State and then passed on to the County under the State's sales tax number. The State's sales tax number is used as a reference whenever issues arise with the State.

2. When starting a business, where do I start?

For general information and links regarding the opening of a business in Rio Blanco County, please refer to the Establishing a Business section.

3. As a vendor, am I allowed to retain a vendor fee when I submit the sales tax?

The Rio Blanco County Service Fee, also known as the Vendor's Fee, is three and thirty-three one hundredths percent (3.33%) for all Rio Blanco County sales tax filers who submit timely filed returns. It is not allowed on a delinquent return.

4. I purchased a business in Rio Blanco County. Is there any sales tax due?

When a business is purchased within Rio Blanco County, sales tax is due on the tangible personal property that transferred in the purchase. Items such as desks, tables, tableware, equipment, and computers are some examples of taxable tangible property. To determine the value of the tangible personal property, refer to the sale contract.

5. I purchased a business in Rio Blanco County. Can I continue to use the existing license?

When a business has a change of ownership, new State and County licenses must be applied for.

6. If I am purchasing items for resale, do I pay sales tax?

If the tangible personal property is inventory for resale it is exempt from sales tax. However, at the time of purchase, a copy of your State and County sales tax licenses must be presented.

7. Does receiving a Rio Blanco County sales tax license imply that a business has permission to open?

No. The purpose of the Rio Blanco County sales tax license is to show the public that the business has the authority to collect and remit Rio Blanco County sales tax. It does not imply that a business has permission from Rio Blanco County to operate. It is the owner's responsibility to contact the various County departments or other jurisdictions to determine the legality of doing business.

8. If my business is located within Rio Blanco County and I deliver to a location outside of Rio Blanco County, do I collect county sales tax?

For deliveries outside of Rio Blanco County, no County sales tax is collected.

9. When does my Rio Blanco County sales tax license expire?

The Rio Blanco County sales tax license expires at the end of each calendar year. It will renew automatically in January if your business is in good standing. However, it does become invalid if the business closes or ownership changes.

10. How do I request a change of mailing or location address?

The easiest way to change an address is to call the office at 970-878-9610. You will need to provide your State sales tax number, your name and phone number, name of the business, and new address. A new license will be sent out with no fee. Be advised, we can only change the address in the Rio Blanco County sales tax system. The Colorado Department of Revenue, other taxing jurisdictions or other County departments, do not get this change and will have to be contacted separately.

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Treasurer - Manufactured/Mobile Homes

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1. Can I move my mobile home?

Yes, mobile homes can be moved, either within Rio Blanco County, to the landfill (check with the landfill for fees), to another Colorado County, or out-of-state. If the mobile home is to be located outside the city limits of Meeker or Rangely, contact the Rio Blanco County Planning Department for any restrictions. If the mobile home is to be located within the city limits of Meeker or Rangely, contact the respective Town Halls for more information.

2. What is required to move my mobile home?

A mobile home authentication and orange movement tag, obtained from the county Treasurer's Office in person, are required for all mobile home moves. The fee is $10 for the authentication, which states the tax status of the mobile home is current, along with other information. Please provide the following information to the Treasurer's Office for authentication:
- Assessed owner's name
- Date of movement (if applicable)
- Mobile Home Title
- Mover's name and address
- New Owner's name and address
- New physical address of mobile home
- Old physical address of mobile home
- Schedule number

Please check with the Rio Blanco County Road and Bridge Department for any closures or restriction in place at the time you plan to move. You may also be required to obtain permitting from the State of Colorado, which may be handled by your mover.

3. I'm selling my mobile home, but it's not moving. What is needed?

For a name change on a title, a mobile home authentication must be obtained, either in person or by mail, from the Treasurer's office. tax status is checked and may require tax payment. The cost of the authentication is $10. The Clerk and Recorder's Office requires this form, along with the original title, for the title change. Additional costs for a title change are collected in the county Clerk and Recorder's Office.

4. I'm selling my mobile home and it's moving somewhere else. What is needed?

A mobile home authentication (cost: $10) and orange movement tag must be obtained in person from the Treasurer's Office. Taxes may need to also be paid. The original authentication is then taken to the Clerk and Recorder's Office, along with the original title, where the name change will be processed, for additional fees. A copy of the authentication can be given to the mover, along with the orange movement tag.

5. I bought a manufactured home. It is on a permanent foundation. How is this handled?

Usually, a title (called an MSO - Manufacturer's Statement of Origin) for the manufactured home is kept by the mortgage company. The home is inspected by the Assessor's Office and treated like a standard home on the tax roll. You must contact the county Building Department, Sales and Use Tax Department, and the county Assessor's Office for proper filing.

6. I want to put my mobile home on a permanent foundation. What happens in this situation?

The Building Department and Assessor's Office must be contacted. If the mobile home is successfully combined with a Real Property Schedule, the mobile home title must be purged, as it is no longer taxed as a mobile home. the county Treasurer requires the title, a signed request to purge form, and that the taxes are paid. this information is sent to the State of Colorado. There is no charge for this.

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Treasurer - Name/Address Changes

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1. What if my mailing address changes?

Report any changes or corrections to the County Assessor's Office at 970-878-9410.

2. The property owner is not as listed. What needs to be done to transfer ownership?

This can happen due to death, marriage, or new ownership. the transfer of ownership requires that proper legal documentation be filed in the county Clerk and Recorder's Office. The best way to accomplish this accurately is to consult an attorney.

3. I didn't get my notice. If I don't get a notice, how can I pay?

Failure to receive a property tax notice does not exempt the taxpayer from timely payment of the taxes due. If you have not received your tax notice by January 31, call the Treasurer's Office, request a duplicate notice be sent to you and confirm your mailing address.

To insure mailings are delivered to any one other than the assessed owner, we can add "In Care of" and change the address to a current one. This does not transfer the title, it only insures notification is received.

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Treasurer - Property Tax Payments

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1. When are my property taxes due and payable?

Property taxes are due January 1 for the previous year. Payment may be paid in two equal installments or in one full installment.

Half Payment Option - 1st Payment Due February 28 - 2nd Payment Due June 15th 

Whole Payment Option - Payment Due April 30th. 

Interest on late payment is collected at 1% per month.

2. If I am unable to pay what is due, can I pay what I can?

Only half or full payment will be accepted. Partial payments are not accepted.

3. Can I use my credit card for payment?

Yes. Credit Card and Debit Card payments are accepted in person and by telephone, there is a 2.95% transaction fee associated with using a credit or debit card.

Please note that foreign currency is not accepted.

4. What is the Treasurer's administration fee?

Any tax amount less than $10 is subject to a Treasurer's Administration Fee of $5 as authorized by Colorado State Statute 30-1-102(3). Because the tax amount is split many ways, Rio Blanco County receives a small percent. The Treasurer's Administration Fee helps recover the costs of the tax notice paper, postage, printing, etc. The $5 administration fee becomes part of the total amount due.

5. Why am I getting a tax notice if my mortgage company pays the taxes?

Colorado revised statutes mandate that the Treasurer mail the property tax notice to the owner of record as their name and address are listed on the tax roll certified by the County Assessor. Therefore, your mortgage company does not receive a copy of the property tax notice. Most mortgage companies acquire tax amounts for the accounts they service. However, if you feel your mortgage company requires a property tax notice, simply send them a photocopy of your notice.

6. I didn't realize my mortgage company pays the taxes. I sent a payment to the Treasurer's office. What happens now?

The Treasurer will process the first payment received and return the subsequent payment to the paying party. The Treasurer does not hold or apply additional monies.