In March, the El Paso County Board of County Commissioners finalized an update to the county’s strategic plan.ìNo wind blows in favor of a ship without a port of destination,î said Peggy Littleton, county commissioner. ìSince 1998, we’ve had a destination. We know where we’re going and we know how we’re going to get there and set our rudder to be able to accomplish these goals, strategies and objectives.îLittleton worked on the update with other community members that included Dr. Terry Schwartz, associate dean of the school of public affairs at the University of Colorado, Colorado Springs; Doug Price, chief executive officer of the Colorado Springs Convention and Visitors Bureau; and Tim Wolken, director of the county’s community services department.The updated strategic plan summarizes the county’s fiscal situation as the economic downturn, which began in 2007, took hold. The county reacted by cutting $45 million from its budget. According to the updated plan, the downturn is expected to continue through 2015.Compared with nine other Colorado counties, at $368 per citizen, the cost of running El Paso County’s government is the lowest. Larimer County is the highest at $994, and Arapahoe County is closest to El Paso County at $549.The plan identifies five goals:
- Maintain and promote a financially sustainable county government that is transparent and effective
- Continue to enhance the understanding of civic services and promote participation, engagement and confidence in county government
- Maintain and improve the county transportation system, facilities, infrastructure and technology
- Consistently support regional economic strength
- Strive to ensure a safe, secure and healthy community
- Continue the Marksheffel Road planning process involving Powers Boulevard and Banning Lewis Parkway
- Implement the State Highway 94 Access Management Program and form a study group to address improvements and potential expansion of Highway 94
- Increasing the county’s capacity to host conventions, conferences and sporting events
- Research opportunities for adding arts organizations as Enterprise Zone contribution projects
- Leveraging the fairgrounds in Calhan as a regional events or community center
- Partnering with nonprofit organizations to develop new event opportunities, such as an annual Heritage Festival featuring the region’s cultural heritage, art, food and music
- Promoting the use of county facilities for state, regional and national events
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