Two of Jefferson County’s top officials want to extend term limits for their successors and perhaps, themselves.
District Attorney Scott Storey and Sheriff Ted Mink are working to bring to county voters two separate ballot measures that would extend the limits of their positions from two-terms to three.
“For somebody coming into this job that’s new, the learning curve is huge,” said Storey, whose second term ends in 2012. “I do see the value in term limits, but three terms seems more appropriate.”
Mink, who is seeking election to a second term in 2010, echoed Storey, saying that sheriffs have to be familiar with a huge numbers of statutes, as well as their other duties.
“It takes a considerable amount of time to learn some of these processes and running a major detention center,” Mink said. “I also think the possibility of 12 years instead of eight years would be more incentive to attract younger, more vibrant people.”
Both Storey and Mink said they have not decided whether they would run for a third term if voters pass the measures, which are likely to be on the ballot this year.
Unlike Mink, Storey represents not just Jefferson County, but the 1st Judicial District. A change in term limits will require voter approval from both Jefferson and Gilpin counties.
Colorado is the only state in the country that has DA term limits, Storey said. A 2002 statewide ballot measure aimed at erasing term limits for district attorneys was defeated. Two years later, Colorado’s highest court found that district attorneys are limited to two terms under state law unless county voters determine otherwise. Currently, Denver and Weld counties permit DAs to serve three terms. Pueblo has no term limits.
Mink said every county but Jefferson and Adams has extended term limits for sheriffs.
Before the issue can go to the voters, the Jefferson County Commission must approve the resolutions. In Storey’s case, both the Jefferson and Gilpin County Commission must pass resolutions.
Karen Crummy: 303-954-1594 or kcrummy@denverpost.com
