Montrose County Manager Jon Waschbusch submitted his resignation to the Board of County Commissioners on June 20, according to a release from Montrose County.

The release didn’t state what Waschbusch plans to do next, and attempt to reach him by phone wasn’t immediately successful.

Waschbusch has served Montrose County since 2005 in various roles. Jon began his career in the Planning and Development Department and transitioned into Natural Resources Director, Deputy County Manager, and County Manager.

“It has been an honor to serve the residents of Montrose County over the last 19 years,” said Waschbusch. “My family and I are a part of this community, and we have no plans to leave. At this point, I’ve worked at Montrose County for 44% of my life. I’m ready for a change. The timing is good as our major projects are on track and in a good place to hand-off. I know the board and our dedicated staff will continue to serve the community well.”

“This is a tremendous loss for Montrose County,” said Commissioner Sue Hansen. “I’m happy for Jon and his family, but know he will be missed. He is a dynamic leader who has propelled forward the county’s level of professionalism in every department. I wish him continued success on his professional journey.”

“Jon is one of the best and I’m sad to see him leave,” said Board Chair Roger Rash. “The county is in a better position because of Jon’s leadership, initiative, and ability to get things done. I’m grateful to him for his hard work and commitment for nearly two decades of public service. I know Jon will do well wherever he lands.”

“One of the things I appreciate the most about Jon is the relationships he built over time at the county,” said Commissioner Keith Caddy. “Jon is well-liked and worked hard to create strong partnerships with local and regional agencies. His knowledge of government process was a huge benefit to our community and county. Jon identified opportunities for improvement and made them happen. He has left a lasting positive impact on the county and will be missed.”

During his time at the county, Jon’s list of accomplishments ranges from large capital projects to operational efficiencies, strategic initiatives and more. The following is a list of his career highlights during his time at the county:

• Oversaw planning, execution and financing of major capital projects including the Clerk and Recorder’s Remodel, jail renovation and current renovation of the Historic County Courthouse as well as the design of the planned North Campus building
• Assisted in the transfer of hospital property and assets to Montrose Regional Health resolving long-standing issues and affording flexibility and control to the hospital
• Led the 2010 master plan update
• Served as the project lead for the creation of the Rimrocker Trail®
• Established the Natural Resources and Government Affairs division to advocate for local interests in public lands and federal processes
• Created the Citizens Advisory Committee
• Administered and coordinated the county’s Community Partnership program providing annual support to local non-profits and the Towns of Nucla, Naturita and OIathe
• Initiated major countywide technology upgrades
• Implemented compensation studies and updates to employee salary schedules
• Served as Deputy Incident Commander for Montrose County throughout the COVID response
• Secured a long-term lease through the Department of Interior for the Rimrocker Trailhead and Electric Hills Trail System
• Wrote and received numerous grants for projects including the Event Center, Rimrocker Trail, Oak Grove Elementary School Playground and Historic Courthouse Renovation
• Represented Montrose County on various Boards of Directors including Region 10, Montrose Economic Development Corporation, Public Lands Partnership

During his tenure, Jon was recognized in 2021 with a Citizen of Distinction Award by the Montrose Daily Press and the 2022 Colorado County Manager of the Year Award from the Association of Colorado County Administrators.

Montrose County is grateful to Jon for his many years of service. The county is planning a public farewell celebration to be announced at a later date.

This info comes from a press release from Montrose County. The story is developing. Check back for more.