To: Board of County Commissioners
Through: Michelle Halstead, Director, Commissioners’ Office
Prepared By:
prepared
Daniela Villarreal, Management Analyst II, Commissioners’ Office
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Subject:
title
Resolution to approve the Arapahoe County Property Naming Policy
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Purpose and Request:
recommended action
The Board of County Commissioners is requested to adopt a resolution to approve the Arapahoe County Property Naming Policy.
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Background and Discussion:
Arapahoe County has historically operated without a formal naming policy, relying instead on leadership discretion and guidelines developed after a naming controversy in 2011. Earlier this year, a request to name a conference room within the county courthouse reignited discussions around the need for a formal policy. This situation presented an opportunity for Arapahoe County to clarify the naming process, ensuring that all departments and offices adhere to a consistent standard. By establishing a clear policy, the county can enhance transparency and safeguard against potential controversies in the future.
An environmental scan of neighboring counties and cities was conducted to benchmark naming policies. While there were few relevant county results, one example was found from El Paso County, which paralleled Arapahoe County’s approach. Other results included naming policies from local municipalities with a bigger focus and involvement of their Parks, Recreation & Golf Departments.
Additionally, staff held discussions and meetings with department leadership from Facilities and Fleet Management, Open Spaces, Public Works, and the Attorney’s Office to gain insights into past and current County practices as well as identify gaps in our current guidelines. The Executive Team recommended advancing the policy to the BOCC with a preference to maintain the current procedure of not naming after individuals. The proposed naming policy was presented to the Board during a study session on October 21, 2024, and they supported advancing this to a consent agenda for formal approval.
Alternatives: The BOCC could decide not to approve a naming policy at this time.
Fiscal Impact: None
Alignment with Strategic Plan:
☒Be fiscally sustainable
☒Provide essential and mandated service
☐Be community focused
Concurrence: The E-Team concurred with the policy as presented
Resolution: Attached is a copy of the draft resolution.