Weld County commissioners on Monday approved a resolution authorizing the county health department to apply electronically for a 2026 state tobacco education, prevention and cessation grants program grant to continue funding four part-time community health workers.

The grant application, described on the agenda as a chronic disease pilot mini-application for local public health agencies, would maintain existing community health worker positions that the department says provide outreach and follow-up in the county.

Jason Cheshire, with the health department, told the board, "This item seeks the board's approval to apply for a grant, a chronic disease pilot grant. Really the goal of this grant is to continue funding for our community health workers. We've got 4 part time community health workers that are really the backbone of outreach for our department." He added that the funding for those positions lapses in 2026 and that the grant would continue the current roles rather than add new positions.

Commissioner Jason Maxey moved to approve the resolution; Commissioner Kevin D. Ross seconded. The board approved the resolution by voice vote. The board previously discussed the item on October 1, and the health department will submit the application electronically to the Colorado Department of Public Health and Environment.

The grant's approval is limited to permitting the department to apply; the transcript does not specify the grant award amount or the timeline for notification of award.