On Tuesday, Jan. 14, three incumbents took the oath of office at the Montezuma Combined Courts in Cortez.
The 22nd Judicial District’s Chief Judge Todd Jay Plewe was the first to be sworn in.
“I’m going on my 23rd year on the bench,” said Plewe. “Montezuma County and Dolores County, it’s a great privilege to serve my community and my family’s community. ”
“I’ve enjoyed this professionally, and look forward to at least a few more years,” Plewe said as the audience laughed.
Next, District Attorney Jeremy Reed took the oath of office, followed by his Assistant District Attorney Justin Pierce and their team.
The two Montezuma County commissioners were the last two to take the oath.
“You guys know this oath well,” Plewe said to the commissioners. “It’s the fourth time.”
“Is it the fifth for Gerald?” someone in the audience asked.
“I’m trying to remember,” Montezuma County Commissioner Gerald Koppenhafer said.
Before calling the commissioners up, Plewe said how this is a bit of a celebration of the individuals who chose to serve this community and this country.
And with that, he called up Montezuma County Commissioner Kent Lindsay.
“So few words for such a big job,” said Lindsay, post-oath. “I appreciate you all being here.”
Plewe led Koppenhafer through the oath next.
“Thank you all for coming,” Koppenhafer said.
Although there are “challenges ahead for Montezuma County,” specifically in regards to its financial situation, “I look forward to the challenge,” Koppenhafer said.
In the November election, 70% of voters in the 22nd Judicial District – Montezuma and Dolores Counties – voted in favor of Plewe’s retention.
Both Lindsay and Koppenhafer ran uncontested for their positions.