Colorado Declares 30-Person Hartman Abandoned, Shifting Water System After Months-Long Boil Order
Updated
Updated · Fox News · Jul 31
Colorado Declares 30-Person Hartman Abandoned, Shifting Water System After Months-Long Boil Order
3 articles · Updated · Fox News · Jul 31
Summary
Colorado this week declared Hartman abandoned after a hearing found the town had no trustees or clerk, could not hold elections, and still owned water infrastructure tied to a public health threat.
Three active trustees resigned in January, the mayor had already quit in October, and state officials said no one remained authorized to approve contracts, spend funds, or operate the water system.
The water has lacked chlorine for more than a month, remained under a boil advisory since October 2025, and needs testing while a compromised tank requires repair or replacement.
More than $1 million in state grants had been awarded for Hartman’s water system, but the reimbursement-based funds could not be accessed without a functioning local government.
Under the order, streets and alleys not privately owned pass to Prowers County, and the county must transfer the water infrastructure to an entity focused on water treatment or delivery.