Arapahoe County Day News

Read the June 19 Edition of The County Line

Conditional approval issued for the North Rim oil and gas facility

Arapahoe County has issued conditional approval for GMT Exploration Company LLC's application for the North Rim oil and gas facility, which is just west of the intersection of County Line Road and South Oakleaf Street. The North Rim facility is located at T5S R64W Section 28: NE/4SW/4; NW/4SE/4. The site is located on undeveloped property currently zoned agricultural (A-1). Public Works and Development (PWD) evaluated the applications based on oil and gas regulations in Arapahoe County's Land Development Code (LDC). In 2023 and 2024, the County amended the LDC with additional rules that were crafted with health, safety, welfare, and the environment at the forefront of consideration, which included rigorous air/water quality testing, financial assurances for cleanup, and the most protective setbacks in the State of Colorado. These amendments, the result of years of feedback from industry and stakeholders, made Arapahoe County's oil and gas regulations the strictest in the state. After a thorough review and in consultation with multiple County departments and outside agencies, PWD determined the facility met the County's criteria. Because mineral rights are property rights protected by Colorado law, and the applicant met the criteria, the County was obligated to approve the application with conditions. The application, approval documents, a summary of comment themes and discussion, and supporting attachments are available for review at www.arapahoeco.gov/oilgasapplication.

Arapahoe County Child Support Services Staff Earn Statewide Recognition

Arapahoe County Child Support Services Staff Earn Statewide Recognition Families across Arapahoe County count on Child Support Services to help their children thrive. This year, that dedication was recognized across Colorado: five members of the Arapahoe County Child Support Services team received statewide awards or nominations at the annual Family Support Conference, held May 31–June 3 in Loveland. For local families, Child Support Services is a direct and practical resource. The team helps establish parentage, set child support orders and ensure that parents receive the financial support needed for essentials like rent, groceries, school supplies, healthcare and childcare. These dollars go right back into Arapahoe County households—helping stabilize families and strengthen neighborhoods from Aurora to Centennial, Littleton to unincorporated communities. In 2025 alone, Arapahoe County's Child Support Services team managed more than 13,000 enforcement cases and collected over $39.5 million in support for children and caregivers. When families have consistent support, the entire county benefits. Stable households rely less on emergency services, children are better able to participate in school and a more reliable economic foundation grows throughout the community. This work supports not only individual families but also the long-term health of Arapahoe County as a whole. "Child support work is about much more than payments. It is about helping children, parents and caregivers build stability and access the support they need to move forward," said Zhanna Zukin, Community and Child Support Division Manager. "I am incredibly proud of our Child Support Services team and the dedication they bring to this work every day. This statewide recognition reflects their professionalism, compassion and commitment to serving families in Arapahoe County." At this year's statewide conference, three Arapahoe County team members earned top honors: Tracy Rumans—Outstanding IV-D Attorney Award, IV-D refers to the federal child support program established under Title IV-D of the Social Security Act, which helps families establish and enforce child support orders. Jazzmyn Proctor-Smith—Large County Lump Sum Award, which recognizes performance related to collecting child support through lump-sum payments. Maureen Alexander—Outstanding IV-D Administrator Award, which recognizes exceptional leadership and contributions to a local child support program. Two additional staff members were nominated for awards: Nancy Brown for the Outstanding Manager/Supervisor Award that recognizes a leader who demonstrates exceptional leadership and supports staff in their daily work. Andrew Staples for the Outstanding IV-D Attorney Award that recognizes contributions to the child support program and work supporting families. These honors highlight the strength and commitment of the team serving families right here in Arapahoe County. Congratulations to Tracy, Jazzmyn, Maureen, Nancy and Andrew on this well-deserved recognition.

New Underpass Construction Begins on East Arapahoe Road

Heads up motorists who travel on East Arapahoe Road east of Interstate 25 in Centennial. The City of Centennial is starting construction of a new dedicated underpass to improve trail connectivity and safety along the Lone Tree Creek Trail corridor at East Arapahoe Road between South Revere Parkway and South Potomac Street. The project includes the construction of a concrete box culvert under East Arapahoe Road. When completed next spring, it will allow trail users to travel beneath the roadway and eliminate crossing traffic at the South Revere Parkway crosswalk. To accommodate underpass construction, the project team has implemented a long-term traffic shift on East Arapahoe Road. Crews will begin excavation and fiber optic work in the coming week on the north side of the roadway. During the first construction phase this summer, crews will extend the existing culvert that carries Lone Tree Creek and start to build the new concrete box culvert under westbound East Arapahoe Road, along with associated walls. Motorists can expect the following travel impacts Monday through Friday on East Arapahoe Road: 9 a.m. to 3 p.m. Single eastbound lane closure from South Peoria Street to South Potomac Street. 10 a.m. to 3 p.m. Single westbound lane closure from South Potomac Street to South Peoria Street. The second and third phases of the project are scheduled to start later this year. Dates are weather dependent and subject to change. During the second phase, anticipated to start in the fall, traffic will be shifted to the outside of eastbound and westbound East Arapahoe Road. Work includes continued construction of the new culvert under the left turn lanes on westbound East Arapahoe Road. For the third phase, scheduled to start this winter, East Arapahoe Road traffic will be shifted to the north for construction on the south side of East Arapahoe Road. Crews will complete the new concrete box culvert and connect the underpass to sidewalks/trail connections and finish sidewalk work. Additional information, detours and maps are available at centennialco.gov/ltctatarapahoe.

Arapahoe County Board of Commissioners Appoints Dr. Casey Bitting, D.O., F.C.A.P., as County Coroner

The Arapahoe County Board of County Commissioners on Monday appointed Casey Bitting, D.O., F.C.A.P, as Arapahoe County Coroner, effective July 2, 2026, following the retirement of Coroner Kelly Lear, M.D. Dr. Bitting will complete the remainder of Dr. Lear's term, which extends through January 2027. She is also the sole candidate for the office in the November 2026 election. "The Board is honored to appoint Dr. Casey Bitting as Arapahoe County's next coroner," said Board Chair Leslie Summey. "Dr. Bitting combines outstanding medical expertise with years of service to our community, making her exceptionally well prepared to lead the Coroner's Office. We're proud to have another physician serving in this role, and we know she will carry forward the office's vital mission—bringing clarity to families, supporting the pursuit of justice and ensuring that those who can no longer speak for themselves still have a voice." Dr. Bitting has served as a forensic pathologist with the Arapahoe County Coroner's Office since 2018. She is board certified in anatomic and forensic pathology by the American Board of Pathology and completed her forensic pathology fellowship at the Office of the Chief Medical Examiner for the State of Maryland. She earned her Doctor of Osteopathic Medicine degree from Rocky Vista University College of Osteopathic Medicine and completed her residency in Anatomic and Clinical Pathology at the University of New Mexico School of Medicine. Throughout her career, Dr. Bitting has contributed extensively to forensic pathology through research, publications, teaching and leadership. She serves as an attending physician for medical student, pathology resident, and forensic pathology fellow education, has authored numerous peer-reviewed publications, and is an active member of several professional organizations, including the National Association of Medical Examiners, the American Academy of Forensic Sciences, and the College of American Pathologists. "I am honored by the Board's confidence and grateful for the opportunity to serve the residents of Arapahoe County in this role," said Dr. Bitting. "The Coroner's Office has an exceptional team dedicated to serving families with professionalism, compassion, and integrity. I look forward to building on Dr. Lear's legacy while continuing to provide the highest standard of medicolegal death investigation for our amazing community." Dr. Lear retires tomorrow after more than two decades of service to Arapahoe County, including 12 years as the elected coroner. She joined the Coroner's Office as a forensic pathologist in 2004 before being elected coroner in 2014. "Dr. Lear has dedicated her career to serving our community with compassion, professionalism and integrity," said Summey. "Her leadership strengthened the Coroner's Office, advanced the practice of forensic pathology, and provided comfort and answers to countless families during their most difficult moments. We thank her for more than 20 years of distinguished public service and wish her all the best in retirement." In her retirement letter to the Board, Dr. Lear praised the office's staff and expressed confidence in Dr. Bitting's leadership, citing her qualifications, experience and commitment to the community.

Investing in Mothers, Strengthening Families: A Workshop Making Long-Term Impact

Strong families are the foundation of a healthy, resilient community. Arapahoe County Human Services' Motherhood Workshop supports that foundation by giving mothers practical tools that strengthen parent child relationships, reduce family crises and promote long-term stability for the broader community. When mothers feel supported and equipped to navigate stress, children are more likely to experience consistency, safety and connection at home. Over time, those strengthened relationships help build protective factors that reduce the need for additional or repeat services—benefits that extend well beyond individual households. A Community Impact Rooted in Family Connection Many participants enter the four-week workshop while juggling stress, system involvement or strained family relationships. The program provides dedicated space to pause, reflect and learn skills they can immediately use with their children. These strengthened relationships not only improve daily life at home but also contribute to healthier outcomes for the community. "I took the Motherhood Workshop not too long ago, and I thought it was very insightful and enjoyable," said one participant. "I learned so many things about being a mother and becoming a better person in a positive, low-stress environment. I loved how the other mothers and I were able to connect and learn from each other. Our facilitator was excellent. I was so grateful for the opportunity to participate." Practical Support With Community Impact The workshop uses the Center for Relationship Education's Motherhood curriculum, which focuses on real-life skills such as communication, self-discipline, goal setting and repairing relationships with children. To participate, mothers must already be involved with the County's Human Services programs, including child support, child protection, or food, financial, and medical benefits. Misty Willis, who has facilitated the program for six years, sees the impact these skills have on both families and the community. "Participants gain practical skills that help build, strengthen and repair relationships with their children," she said. She emphasizes that growth takes time but is always possible. "Mothering is a lifelong journey that is fluid and often broken, but it is also repairable." By helping mothers build stronger relationships at home, the workshop supports child wellbeing, reduces family instability and promotes healthier long-term outcomes throughout the community. As Willis notes, "Healthy mothers are one of our strongest long-term defenses against the costly socioeconomic impact of poverty. Let's equip them to do it well." After attending classes, some mothers have said they feel more patient and understanding with their children, are better able to manage stress and emotions, spend more quality time with their children and create a more structured, positive home environment. Part of a Broader Commitment to Family Support The Motherhood Workshop is one of many ways Arapahoe County Human Services helps families build stability with practical, relationship-based tools. Monica Chavez, who helps coordinate the Motherhood class, said the workshop is structured to be accessible and encouraging. "This workshop gives mothers time, space and support to focus on their relationships with their children," she said. "The goal is to make sure participants leave with practical tools they can use at home, along with encouragement that they are not alone in the work of parenting." More Information If you are a current client with Arapahoe County Human Services and would like more information about classes and workshops available to you, speak with your caseworker or reach out to Monica Chavez, Resource Coordinator at [email protected].

Could you qualify for property tax relief?

Could you qualify for property tax relief? If you're 65 or older and have owned and lived in your home for at least 10 consecutive years, you may qualify for Colorado's Senior Citizen Property Tax Exemption. The program exempts 50% of the first $200,000 of your primary residence's actual value from property taxes—potentially providing meaningful financial relief for longtime homeowners. To qualify for the 2026 exemption, at least one property owner must: Have been 65 or older as of Jan. 1, 2026; and Have owned and occupied the home as their primary residence for at least 10 consecutive years before Jan. 1, 2026. Applications must be submitted to the Arapahoe County Assessor's Office by July 15. Applications submitted by July 15, 2026, retain the right to appeal the Assessor's Office's decision. The Assessor's Office will continue accepting late applications through Aug. 15, 2026, but applicants who file after July 15 will not have appeal rights if their application is denied.

Read the July 10 Edition of The County Line

The Headlines for July 10: Commissioners appoint Dr. Casey Bitting, D.O., F.C.A.P., as County Coroner 120th annual Arapahoe County Fair is right around the corner Could you qualify for property tax relief? Last call for input on the ArapaGO Transit Connections Plan Traffic alert: Kiowa Creek bridge repairs Investing in mothers, strengthening families: A workshop making long‑term impact And more...

Arapahoe County Property Appraiser Office Information

Welcome to the Arapahoe County Property Appraiser's office. This office is responsible for appraising all real property within Arapahoe County for tax assessment purposes. The Appraiser maintains records of all property characteristics and values.

Arapahoe County Property Assessor Services Available Online

Welcome to the Arapahoe County Property Assessor's office website. Here you can find information about property assessments, valuations, appeals, and related services for properties in Arapahoe County, Colorado.

17 Mile House Open House: Quilts of Valor

Join us for a special Open House honoring local service members with the Quilts of Valor Foundation and the Smoky Hill Quilt Club. Enjoy a heartfelt quilt presentation ceremony and a fun kids' craft where children can create quilt squares for future veteran quilts. A warm, meaningful day of history, community, and gratitude at the 17 Mile House Farm Park. Saturday, June 27, 2026 10-11 a.m. Quilts of Valor Presentation 11 a.m.-1 p.m. 17 Mile House Tours 17 Mile House Farm Park 8181 S Parker Rd, Centennial. This is a FREE event, but registration is strongly encouraged due to capacity limits.

Agricultural Leasing Program Coming in 2027

Arapahoe County Open Spaces is preparing to launch a new Agricultural Leasing Program to support local farmers and ranchers while caring for County-owned open space. Approved grazing opportunities will be offered on select properties, with applications opening in September 2026 and leases beginning January 2027. This program will help preserve agricultural heritage, promote sustainable land management, and reinvest lease revenues back into County properties. Learn more on our website: www.arapahoeco.gov/OSagriculture

Primary Election is Tuesday, June 30!

Tuesday is the final day of voting for the Primary Election and the last chance voters will have to select candidates for the November General Election. Please note these last-minute reminders if you still haven't cast your ballot: Return your ballot. Now. If you still haven't voted and/or returned your ballot, please do so today or this weekend. Returning your ballot before election day allows for smoother Election Night processing, earlier results, and peace of mind. Reminder to Unaffiliated voters. Unaffiliated voters receive both Democratic and Republican ballots but may only vote and return ONE of them. If both ballots are voted and returned, neither may be counted. Voter Service and Polling Centers are open. If you need to register to vote, get a replacement ballot, language assistance, support with a disability, or other services, bipartisan election judges can help you at six locations, from 8 a.m. – 5 p.m. Friday and Monday, 10 a.m. – 2 p.m. tomorrow (Saturday), and 7a.m. – 7 p.m. on Tuesday (Election Day). You must return your ballot by 7 p.m. Tuesday for your vote to count. All ballot drop boxes will be locked at exactly 7 p.m. on June 30. VSPCs also close at 7 p.m., but voters waiting to cast their ballot, or to register and cast a ballot will be served as long as they arrive by 7 p.m.

Read the June 26 Edition of The County Line

The Headlines for June 26: Primary Election is Tuesday, June 30! Agricultural leasing program coming in 2027 Arapahoe County child support services staff earn statewide recognition New underpass construction begins on East Arapahoe Road And more...

120th Annual Arapahoe County Fair is right around the corner

Get your tickets now to the 120th Annual Arapahoe County Fair at arapahoecountyfair.com. This cherished rite of summer returns Thursday, July 23 - Sunday, July 26, 2026, and showcases the County's agricultural and Western heritage through 4-H programming, traditional farming and educational activities, and entertainment for the whole family. This year's Fair carries extra meaning, marking a rare convergence of milestone anniversaries: America's 250th, Colorado's 150th and the Fair's own 120th. Look for special promotions, themed exhibits and unique experiences throughout the grounds in celebration. Tickets are $30 and kids under 36 inches tall receive free admission. Tickets include free parking, unlimited carnival rides, high-octane rodeo action, a drone show, live entertainment, mutton bustin', public competitions, petting farm, 4-H livestock shows, Kids Corral and more. Food and beverages will be available for purchase and vendors are located throughout the Fairgrounds. "Come early, stay late! Unlimited rides, and endless entertainment for all ages to enjoy!" said Commissioner Leslie Summey. "This year we're celebrating 120 years of the Fair alongside Colorado's 150th and America's 250th birthdays, and we can't wait to share that milestone with our community." New in 2026, in honor of the Fair's 120th anniversary, look for: Animal Kingdom featuring animal shows throughout each day including Top Hogs, Wildman Phil and Raptor Events Avian Show; Globe of Death with motorcyclists performing inside a mesh sphere; ShenanGuns! Comedy Wild West Show, a fast-paced, family-friendly wild west show; Acceleration Zone (Friday only) for high speed adrenaline rush; and a foam party (Sunday only). Visit the Things To Do page on the Fair website for the full entertainment lineup. This year's event will host 40-60 commercial vendors and 8-10 food vendors, plus carnival food vendors, throughout the grounds. Know before you go: Parking is free. Midway games, Mutton Bustin', food and beverages are an additional cost. Vendors may also have items for purchase. Purchase a ticket for Thursday, July 23, and receive a limited-edition 120th anniversary promotional cooling towel, while supplies last. Children 37"-42" tall have limited ride access, and some rides require an accompanying adult. Event schedules and tickets are available at www.arapahoecountyfair.com. Location: Arapahoe County Fairgrounds and Park, 25690 E. Quincy Ave., Aurora, CO 80016 Important traffic information: South Harvest Road will be closed in both directions from July 23-26 to address safety and traffic management during the Fair. Motorists should use South Gun Club Road or East Belleview Avenue as alternative routes into the neighborhood and East Quincy Avenue or South Powhaton Road to access the Fair entrance.

Last Call for Input on the ArapaGO Transit Connections Plan

Last Call for Input on the ArapaGO Transit Connections Plan As the ArapaGO: Transit Connections Plan hits the home stretch, the public will have some final chances to learn about the study and provide feedback on how to improve transit through the urban areas of the County. This fall the project team will draft and finalize the plan with a suggested pilot program on how residents could use different microtransit and micromobility options (like on demand transit, bikes, e-bikes and scooters) in their communities. But before that happens, the project team will host a virtual meeting and give several presentations in the coming months. The hour-long virtual meeting is set for 6 p.m. Tuesday, Sept. 1. Those who register will learn about pilot project recommendations. Register here to receive the meeting link. For those who cannot attend, the meeting will be recorded and placed on the project website at www.arapahoeco.gov/arapago. In addition to the virtual meeting, the project team will be giving presentations across the County. The public is welcome to attend any of the following meetings: Centennial Senior Commission, 1:30 p.m. Aug. 25 Littleton Transportation & Mobility Board, 6:30 p.m. Aug. 27 Englewood Transportation Advisory Committee, 6 p.m. Sept. 10 Aurora Commission for Older Adults, 1 p.m. Sept. 14 The ArapaGO: Transit Connections Plan is a countywide effort to plan for future microtransit and micromobility options as our communities continue to grow. Over the past 15 years, development across urban areas of the County has increased, and that growth brings new transportation needs. This study will create a plan and implementation framework for options like on-demand transit, bikes, e-bikes and scooters. The project is led by Arapahoe County in partnership with Aurora, Englewood, Centennial, Littleton, Denver South, RTD, and DRCOG. Learn more at www.arapahoeco.gov/arapago.

Arapahoe County Motherhood Workshop Strengthens Families Through Four-Week Program

Strong families are the foundation of a healthy, resilient community. Arapahoe County Human Services’ Motherhood Workshop supports that foundation by giving mothers practical tools that strengthen parent child relationships, reduce family crises and promote long-term stability for the broader community. When mothers feel supported and equipped to navigate stress, children are more likely to experience consistency, safety and connection at home. Over time, those strengthened relationships help build protective factors that reduce the need for additional or repeat services—benefits that extend well beyond individual households. A Community Impact Rooted in Family Connection Many participants enter the four-week workshop while juggling stress, system involvement or strained family relationships. The program provides dedicated space to pause, reflect and learn skills they can immediately use with their children. These strengthened relationships not only improve daily life at home but also contribute to healthier outcomes for the community. “I took the Motherhood Workshop not too long ago, and I thought it was very insightful and enjoyable,” said one participant. * “I learned so many things about being a mother and becoming a better person in a positive, low-stress environment. I loved how the other mothers and I were able to connect and learn from each other. Our facilitator was excellent. I was so grateful for the opportunity to participate.” Practical Support With Community Impact The workshop uses the Center for Relationship Education’s Motherhood curriculum, which focuses on real-life skills such as communication, self-discipline, goal setting and repairing relationships with children. To participate, mothers must already be involved with the County’s Human Services programs, including child support, child protection, or food, financial, and medical benefits. Misty Willis, who has facilitated the program for six years, sees the impact these skills have on both families and the community. “Participants gain practical skills that help build, strengthen and repair relationships with their children,” she said. She emphasizes that growth takes time but is always possible. “Mothering is a lifelong journey that is fluid and often broken, but it is also repairable.” By helping mothers build stronger relationships at home, the workshop supports child wellbeing, reduces family instability and promotes healthier long-term outcomes throughout the community. As Willis notes, “Healthy mothers are one of our strongest long-term defenses against the costly socioeconomic impact of poverty. Let’s equip them to do it well.” After attending classes, some mothers have said they feel more patient and understanding with their children, are better able to manage stress and emotions, spend more quality time with their children and create a more structured, positive home environment. Part of a Broader Commitment to Family Support The Motherhood Workshop is one of many ways Arapahoe County Human Services helps families build stability with practical, relationship-based tools. Monica Chavez, who helps coordinate the Motherhood class, said the workshop is structured to be accessible and encouraging. “This workshop gives mothers time, space and support to focus on their relationships with their children,” she said. “The goal is to make sure participants leave with practical tools they can use at home, along with encouragement that they are not alone in the work of parenting.” More Information If you are a current client with Arapahoe County Human Services and would like more information about classes and workshops available to you, speak with your caseworker or reach out to Monica Chavez, Resource Coordinator at [email protected]. * Identifying details have been removed to protect the privacy of participants.

Arapahoe County Motherhood Workshop Strengthens Families Through Four-Week Program

120th Annual Arapahoe County Fair Celebrates Historic Milestone: July 23-26, 2026

Get your tickets now to the 120th Annual Arapahoe County Fair at arapahoecountyfair.com. This cherished rite of summer returns Thursday, July 23 - Sunday, July 26, 2026, and showcases the County’s agricultural and Western heritage through 4-H programming, traditional farming and educational activities, and entertainment for the whole family. This year’s Fair carries extra meaning, marking a rare convergence of milestone anniversaries: America’s 250th, Colorado’s 150th and the Fair’s own 120th. Look for special promotions, themed exhibits and unique experiences throughout the grounds in celebration. Tickets are $30 and kids under 36 inches tall receive free admission. Tickets include free parking, unlimited carnival rides, high-octane rodeo action, a drone show, live entertainment, mutton bustin’, public competitions, petting farm, 4-H livestock shows, Kids Corral and more. Food and beverages will be available for purchase and vendors are located throughout the Fairgrounds. “Come early, stay late! Unlimited rides, and endless entertainment for all ages to enjoy!” said Commissioner Leslie Summey. “This year we’re celebrating 120 years of the Fair alongside Colorado’s 150th and America’s 250th birthdays, and we can’t wait to share that milestone with our community.” New in 2026, in honor of the Fair’s 120th anniversary, look for: Animal Kingdom – featuring animal shows throughout each day including Top Hogs, Wildman Phil and Raptor Events Avian Show. Globe of Death – motorcyclists perform inside a mesh sphere ShenanGuns! Comedy Wild West Show – a fast-paced, family-friendly, truly fun wild west show Acceleration Zone (Friday only) – a high speed, adrenaline rush A foam party (Sunday only) Visit the Things To Do page on the Fair website for the full entertainment lineup. This year’s event will host 40-60 commercial vendors and 8-10 food vendors, plus carnival food vendors, throughout the grounds. Know before you go: Parking is free. Midway games, Mutton Bustin’, food and beverages are an additional cost. Vendors may also have items for purchase. Purchase a ticket for Thursday, July 23, and receive a limited-edition 120th anniversary promotional cooling towel, while supplies last. Children 37”-42” tall have limited ride access, and some rides require an accompanying adult. Event schedules and tickets are available at www.arapahoecountyfair.com. DATE: July 23-26, 2026 TIME:2026 Arapahoe County Fair Hours July 23, 2026; 4 p.m.-Midnight July 24, 2026; 11 a.m.-Midnight July 25, 2026; 11 a.m.-Midnight July 26, 2026; 11 a.m.-10:30 p.m. LOCATION: Arapahoe County Fairgrounds and Park25690 E. Quincy Ave. Aurora, CO 80016 Important traffic information: South Harvest Road will be closed in both directions from July 23-26 to address safety and traffic management during the Fair. Motorists should use South Gun Club Road or East Belleview Avenue as alternative routes into the neighborhood and East Quincy Avenue or South Powhaton Road to access the Fair entrance. TICKETS: $30 General AdmissionChildren under 36 inches tall receive free admission