Huerfano County judge: Make courthouse accessible

A state court judge has ordered Huerfano County commissioners to fix a wheelchair lift and an elevator at the 108-year-old historic courthouse or else be held in contempt of court.

Chief District Judge Claude Appel Monday gave commissioners until Jan. 2 to comply. In his order, the judge cited several instances of people in wheelchairs or mobility impairments who have been unable to climb the dozens of stairs to conduct court or other county business at the Huerfano County Courthouse.

County Administrator John Galusha says they’re adding a wheelchair ramp and fixing the elevator, but obtaining parts for the elevator is difficult because the model was last manufactured in 1983.

Galusha says the ultimate goal is to build a new facility, which is at least 10 years away.