Department of Revenue narrows driver’s license office search

Two potential locations identified 

By Olivia Lueckemeyer

Progress has been made in the search for a new location for the Gunnison driver’s license office. County commissioner Jonathan Houck reported to the Board of County Commissioners on January 19 that the Department of Revenue had participated in a tour of Gunnison rentals on January 14 and settled on two potential locations.

The department now plans to consult with the two business owners and to submit a request for proposal (RFP) detailing what they require as far as building features, time frame and cost.

Factors that will play into the department’s decision include square footage, technology infrastructure, the ability to accommodate a waiting area, ADA bathrooms, and more.

Once the business owners have reviewed the RFP, they will reply with their lease terms. Concerning rent, the department is willing to spend the equivalent of the local market value, or up to $850 per month.

Since 2005 the driver’s license office has been located in the Blackstock Government Center; however, when its business began to affect other services operating in the building, the county requested that the Department of Revenue find a new location for the office by the end of 2015.

Previously the county had been renting space to the department for only $152.80 per month. Up until recently, the department had been dragging its feet on finding another location, claiming that available spaces were too expensive. If it cannot settle on a local office, Gunnison valley residents may have to drive to Montrose to obtain or renew a driver’s license.

There seems to be a light at the end of the tunnel. The Department of Revenue has been given an extension until the end of February, when it is required to vacate the Blackstock building. Commissioner Jonathan Houck says he is hopeful things will work out in the county residents’ favor.

“When we sent our second letter in December to the department, they were incredibly responsive,” Houck said. “They seem to be moving forward and I feel good they will be able to remain in Gunnison.”