October 2026

In this month's issue...

El Paso County Hosts Dr.Oz
Fox Run Regional Park's Newest Waterfront Gazebo Open
Introducing new El Paso County Update video series
The People Behind the Mission: Robert Pintor and the Electrical Division
2027 Preliminary Budget Hearings Have Begun
Upcoming Events

Message from the County Administrator

Welcome to the new look of El Paso County's Courier News. This publication is one of the many ways we strive to stay connected with our community by sharing information openly, communicating transparently, and keeping you informed about what’s happening across El Paso County.

This time of year is especially important as we review department performance, evaluate what’s working well, determine our priorities moving forward, and begin shaping the 2027 budget.

As you know, the priorities of a government are often reflected in how and where taxpayer dollars are spent. At El Paso County, we are committed to delivering high‑quality services while remaining fiscally responsible and efficient with public funds.

Budget hearings are open to the public, and we welcome your participation in this critical process. Together, we can make thoughtful, informed decisions that support a thriving and resilient community.

Thank you for staying connected!

El Paso County Hosts Dr. Oz

Combating fraud and waste: A conversation about accountability

El Paso County offices hosted a roundtable with Rep. Jeff Crank and Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services Administrator Dr. Mehmet Oz on combating waste, fraud, and abuse in federal health care programs.

Commissioners Geitner and Nelson and representatives from the County’s Department of Human Services joined local leaders for the discussion on program integrity and protecting access to essential care.

Pictured left to right: Colorado House Minority Leader Jarvis Caldwell, Dr. Mehmet Oz, Congressman Jeff Crank, El Paso County Commisioner Chair Carrie Geitner and Vice Chair Commissioner Lauren Nelson.

Fox Run's Newest Waterfront Feature

Special Events Gazebo — Grand Opening Celebration

One of El Paso County’s most beloved outdoor destinations just got even better. Fox Run Regional Park—417 acres of ponds, playfields, winding trails, and year‑round adventure—replaced a previous structure with a brand‑new Special Events Gazebo near the amphitheater. This scenic, reservable space is perfect for weddings, celebrations, photos, and special gatherings.

Join us for a celebration ribbon-cutting on Thursday, October 15th at 2:00 PM at Fox Run Regional Park, 2100 Stella Drive, Colorado Springs.

Want to reserve the new gazebo? Visit El Paso County Parks and Open Space to learn more!

New Video Series - El Paso County Update

Your quick look at what’s happening across the County 📽️

Stay in the know with El Paso County Update, a new short‑form video feature highlighting the latest news, projects, events, and services throughout the County.

Hosted by Josh Poland, the new executive director of the El Paso County Communications Department, each episode delivers a fast, engaging snapshot of what’s happening in your community.

Poland brings more than 15 years of television news experience to the role, helping ensure that residents receive clear, consistent, and professionally delivered information. The Communications Department actively keeps residents informed about County programs, initiatives, and emergency updates.

Want to catch the latest? Click here for direct access to the latest videos!

The People Behind the Mission

Behind the Lights: Robert Pintor and the Electrical Division 💡

Every day, El Paso County’s Electrical Division keeps our facilities running seamlessly—from the moment the lights switch on to the instant backup systems kick in without hesitation.

Led by Robert Pintor and powered by a team with more than 200 years of combined expertise, this crew monitors, maintains, and upgrades the systems that keep essential public services moving.

Their work spans everything from LED conversions that save taxpayer dollars to the critical power systems that protect County operations during outages. Click to read more about the team that keeps the County energized and running behind the scenes.

El Paso County Electrical Division Team: Robert Pintor and Greg Hamby, Wil Greene, Ross Flank, Chris Trujillo, Victor Villalobos, and Andre Vigil

2027 Budget Hearings Have Begun

El Paso County Advances a Sustainable and Recession-Proof Financial Plan

The 2027 Preliminary Budget was developed through a collaborative process involving the Board of County Commissioners, Elected Offices, County Departments, Financial Services, and community input.

The plan aligns with the County’s Strategic Plan , which emphasizes Infrastructure, Service Quality, and Community Trust. The 2027 Preliminary Budget totals $558.6 million, with budgeted revenues of $535.4 million, a 5.8% increase from 2026. Expenditures increased by 4.7%.

To ensure financial stability and readiness for unexpected events, the County maintains a 23% General Fund balance and a $10 million emergency reserve.

Key investments include:

• $7 million in one‑time road project funding

• $4.7 million for critical facility and parks infrastructure

• $9.5 million for a 4% personnel investment across departments

• $2.1 million for operational enhancements

Upcoming Public Budget Hearings:

• Tuesday, October 20 – Department Presentations 1

• Tuesday, October 27 – Department Presentations 2

• Tuesday, November 10 – Board Direction 2027 Budget

• Tuesday, December 8 – Resolution to Adopt the 2027 Original Adopted Budget

Click this link for additional 2027 budget information and calendar.

Upcoming Events

Saturday, October 24

Pumpkin Carving Party & Jack O' Lantern Trails 🎃

Pumpkin Carving Party (9 AM–12 PM)

Carve a pumpkin to be displayed later on the Jack‑o‑Lantern Trail! We provide pre-scooped pumpkins, patterns, and carving tools. Return in the evening to see your creation glowing along the trail.

Jack‑o‑Lantern Trail (5:30–7:30 PM)

Enjoy a lighted trail of carved pumpkins, make a craft, hear stories, and roast a marshmallow. Costumes are encouraged! Creators may pick up carved pumpkins starting at 7:30 PM.

Saturday, October 31

Celebrate the Return of Fall Fest 👻

Get ready for spooktacular fun at the El Paso County Fair & Event Center’s Fall Fest! Enjoy festive nights filled with our Haunted Barn, Trough or Treat (our animal‑themed twist on trunk‑or‑treat!), vendors, food trucks, carnival games, a costume contest, and much more.

And don’t worry about the chilly weather—most activities take place indoors, so that you can enjoy all the fall fun in comfort.

Join us for a frighteningly good time at Fall Fest!

Find out more here.

Saturday, November 7

12th Annual Bear Creek Bear Run 🐻

12th Annual Bear Creek Bear Run

Saturday, November 7 • 9:00 AM

Bear Creek Regional Park

Join us for a 3K or 5K fun run/walk, complete with a costume contest, 9:30 AM Bear Yoga on the lawn, and plenty of bear‑themed fun. Registration includes a bear costume, and four‑legged family members can dress up and participate too. This community fundraiser is one we can bearly wait for!