Arapahoe County commissioners back western Vital Records office at Arapahoe Plaza

Arapahoe County commissioners signaled support at an Oct. 20 study session for adding a Vital Records office at Arapahoe Plaza. Public Health says the office would improve access to birth and death certificates for residents in western Arapahoe County and nearby areas.

The office would offer weekday appointments and walk-ins, like the department’s Lima and Altura locations, and serve residents in parts of Jefferson, Denver and Douglas counties. The department’s proposal calls for a public-service counter, two workspaces and secure vault storage. Public Health says the location would fill a service gap between Golden and Centennial.

The conversion would use part of the space planned for Harm Reduction. Under Public Health’s revised service model, that program would rely on street outreach, fixed-location sites and Prevention Point rather than a dedicated space at Arapahoe Plaza. The proposal says the program would use storage and shared space at the sexual health clinic, while Prevention Point would screen and test clients and refer those who screen positive to the clinic.

The written proposal estimates the change would cost $40,135 and add 10 calendar days to the project. The final cost depends on updated design drawings. Staff recommended using project contingency funds, which the report says generally are reserved for unanticipated work within the original project scope. Staff said funds were available, but further unforeseen costs could require unallocated Capital Improvement Program funds.

The study-session video records five commissioners giving a thumbs-up and the chair describing the contingency as approved. It does not show a motion or formal vote.