~By Dan Williams~
Teller County Commission Chairman Dan Williams and Sheriff Jason Mikesell recently joined the Western Congressional Caucus in touring and receiving briefings and updates from the SSR Cripple Creek and Victor Gold Mine (CC&V) operation in southern Teller.
SSR Mining is new operator and owner of the Cripple Creek & Victor Gold Mine, which was run for the last decade by Newmont Mining, and previously by a well-known South African company. CC&V is one of the biggest employers in Teller County.
The caucus flew in from Washington D.C. with scheduled events in Colorado Springs and Teller County.
Also joining them were state and national energy and mining industry leaders. Challenges to industries, such as mining were discussed by many of the congressional leaders present. Another big topic of discussion dealt with the role and support of local leaders. Sheriff Mikesell cited the critical role and partnership between the county and mine in public safety and during emergencies. Moreover, he outlined several key examples from the past.
Commissioner Williams discussed the transparent relationship between the mine and the county. In addition, he stressed the county’s role in permitting and in handling amendments. Plus, he emphasized the mine’s impact on the local tax base and community investment, along with their inclusion in the county’s land use regulations.
“It was a great visit and opportunity for federal, state, and local leaders to discuss industries like the mine and the impact of regulations and laws on their operations,” said Williams, following the tour.
