El Paso County commissioners proclaim 2026 observances for U.S. 250th and Colorado 150th anniversaries

The El Paso County Board of County Commissioners on Tuesday unanimously approved a proclamation recognizing the United States’ 250th anniversary and Colorado’s 150th statehood anniversary and urged residents to join commemorative events.

Chair Carrie Geithner introduced the proclamation, recounting the historical milestones that the board said provided “a rare opportunity to observe combined milestones, uniting Coloradans and Americans to reflect on foundational ideals.” The board moved the proclamation and approved it on a 5–0 roll call vote.

Remotely, a U.S. representative addressed the board and framed the joint commemoration as a time to recommit to civic values and community. “May god bless El Paso County, the state of Colorado, and The United States Of America,” the representative said.

Locally, Harold Segal, headmaster of Liberty Tree Academy, linked the observance to the school’s curricular focus, noting students recite the preamble daily and urging reflection on civic history. Commissioners used their comments to emphasize self‑governance, honoring veterans and civic duty.

The board recessed briefly for a group photograph after the vote. No further action related to the proclamation was scheduled at the meeting.