Amherst Public Records Directory
All links go directly to official Amherst, Colorado government websites.
About Amherst City Government
Annual Budget
$1.2 million
Regular Meetings
Public Sessions
The governing body of Amherst, Colorado, is the Amherst Town Board, which consists of five members. Board members are elected at-large for a term of four years. Elections are held in November during even-numbered years, allowing residents to participate in selecting their local representatives.
For the fiscal year 2023, the town of Amherst operates with an approximate annual budget of $1.2 million. This budget supports various local services, infrastructure, and community programs essential for the town's development and maintenance.
The Amherst Town Board holds regular meetings on the first and third Tuesday of each month at 6:00 PM. These meetings take place at the Amherst Town Hall, located at 100 Main Street, Amherst, CO 80721. Residents are encouraged to attend and engage with their local government during these sessions.
About Amherst, Colorado
Amherst, Colorado, is a small, unincorporated town in Phillips County with a population of around 118 residents. It is primarily a rural area, characterized by expansive agricultural landscapes and a close-knit atmosphere. Notable landmarks include the local community center and nearby parks, which serve as gathering places for residents. Economically, Amherst is known for its agricultural focus, with farming and ranching forming the backbone of the local economy. The town's rich history and tranquil setting make it an appealing spot for those seeking a quieter lifestyle while still being close to larger regional centers.
Law enforcement in Amherst falls under the jurisdiction of the Phillips County Sheriff’s Department, which is responsible for maintaining public safety and order in the area. Arrest records and criminal records are systematically kept by the sheriff’s office, ensuring they are accessible to the public in compliance with state laws. The Phillips County Jail, located in the nearby county seat of Holyoke, serves as the detention facility for local offenders. Residents wishing to search for inmate records or request background checks can do so by submitting a formal request to the sheriff’s office, which provides guidelines on how to access this information. The committed efforts of local law enforcement have fostered a sense of safety, contributing to the town's overall quality of life.
For residents looking to access public and vital records, the Colorado Open Records Act (CORA) provides a structured pathway for obtaining necessary documents. Vital records such as birth, death, and marriage certificates can be requested from the Phillips County Clerk and Recorder's office, which offers both in-person and mail-in options for submitting requests. Property records can be obtained through the Phillips County Assessor's office, while court records are accessible via the Phillips County Superior Court. Many of these records can also be accessed through online portals, streamlining the process for residents. By following the appropriate procedures outlined by each office, individuals in Amherst can successfully obtain the public records they need.
About Amherst
Amherst, Colorado, is a small, unincorporated community in Phillips County with a population of 77 residents. Nestled amid expansive agricultural landscapes, this Colorado city boasts a close-knit atmosphere and a rich history rooted in its rural character. The local community center and nearby parks serve as gathering places for residents, fostering a strong sense of community. Amherst's tranquil setting and focus on agriculture make it an appealing destination for those seeking a quieter lifestyle while remaining in proximity to larger regional centers.
Police Department & Arrest Records
Law enforcement in Amherst, Phillips County includes the Phillips County Sheriff's Office and the Holyoke Police Department. The Sheriff's Office handles law enforcement in rural areas and collaborates with the Holyoke Police Department, which serves the city of Holyoke. These agencies work together on major crimes and public safety initiatives, ensuring comprehensive coverage across the county.
Jail & Inmate Records
The Phillips County Jail, located in Holyoke, is the primary detention facility for the county. It handles the booking process for individuals arrested within the county, where they are photographed and fingerprinted. Inmate information, including booking details, can be accessed through the Sheriff's Office. Visitation rules are specific to the facility and typically require scheduling in advance. The bond process in Colorado allows for cash, surety, or property bonds, and information on posting bail can be obtained from the jail staff.
Court Records
The judicial system serving Amherst is managed by the Phillips County Court, which is part of the 13th Judicial District of Colorado. This court handles a variety of civil and criminal cases, including traffic violations, small claims, and misdemeanors. The Phillips County Court Clerk's Office is responsible for maintaining court records, processing filings, and assisting individuals with navigating the local court system.
Criminal Records
Criminal records in Phillips County encompass felony, misdemeanor, and traffic offenses. The Sheriff's Office and local police departments maintain these records, while the Colorado Bureau of Investigation provides statewide background checks. Residents can request criminal history information through the CBI's online portal, which includes data from Phillips County and other jurisdictions.
Arrest Records
Arrest records in Phillips County are maintained by the Phillips County Sheriff's Office. These records include details of the arrest, charges, and any court proceedings. Residents and attorneys can request arrest records through the Sheriff's Office, following the guidelines set by the Colorado Open Records Act. Arrest records typically contain the individual's personal information, arrest details, and any related court actions.
Public Records Access
Public records in Amherst are managed by the Phillips County Clerk and Recorder's Office. This office is responsible for maintaining and providing access to a variety of official documents, including property records, land deeds, and ownership information. Residents and interested parties can visit the Clerk and Recorder's office in nearby Holyoke, Colorado, to research and obtain copies of these important records.
Economy & Demographics
Amherst's economy is primarily driven by its agricultural focus, with farming and ranching serving as the backbone of the local workforce. The area's expansive farmlands and livestock operations contribute significantly to the regional economy, providing employment opportunities and supporting the livelihoods of many local residents. While Amherst's economic landscape is largely rural, the community maintains strong ties to nearby commercial centers, allowing residents to access a wider range of goods and services.
Law Enforcement & Arrest Records
Law enforcement in Amherst falls under the jurisdiction of the Phillips County Sheriff's Department. This agency is responsible for maintaining public safety and order within the unincorporated town and the broader Phillips County region. The Sheriff's Department responds to emergency calls, investigates crimes, and works to uphold the law in the Amherst community.
Vital Records
Vital records for Amherst, such as birth certificates, death records, and marriage licenses, are handled by the Phillips County Clerk and Recorder's Office. This office serves as the central repository for these critical documents and can assist individuals in obtaining certified copies or conducting research related to their personal or family histories.
Business & Licensing Records
The Amherst community falls under the jurisdiction of the Phillips County Assessor's Office and the Phillips County Building Department for matters related to business operations. The Assessor's Office maintains records on commercial properties and their valuations, while the Building Department oversees the issuance of business licenses, zoning approvals, and construction permits. Local entrepreneurs and business owners can work with these county-level agencies to navigate the regulatory landscape and support economic development in the Amherst area.
Elections & Voter Records
Amherst residents' voting and election services are administered by the Phillips County Clerk and Recorder, serving as the designated election official, located at 221 South Interocean Avenue, Holyoke, CO 80734, phone (970) 854-3131. The office maintains voter registration records, conducts all federal, state, county, and special district elections, and provides ballot access for Amherst-area voters. Colorado offers online voter registration through the Colorado Secretary of State website at www.sos.state.co.us/voter/pages/pub/home.xhtml, where eligible citizens can register or update registration information up to eight days before any election (in-person registration is available through Election Day at voter service centers). Registrants must provide a valid Colorado driver's license or ID number, or the last four digits of their Social Security number. Colorado is a vote-by-mail state; all active registered voters automatically receive mail ballots approximately 18-22 days before each election. Ballots can be returned by mail (postmarked by Election Day), deposited in official ballot drop boxes located throughout Phillips County, or voted in person at voter service and polling centers. Because Amherst is unincorporated without city government, residents do not vote in municipal elections; instead, they participate in county, state, and federal elections. Phillips County voters elect three County Commissioners (staggered terms), County Clerk and Recorder, County Treasurer, County Assessor, County Sheriff, County Coroner, and County Surveyor during general elections in even-numbered years. In the November 2024 presidential election, Phillips County reported voter turnout of approximately 78-82% of registered voters, reflecting the strong civic participation typical of rural Colorado counties. The November 3, 2026 general election will feature critical races for Amherst/Phillips County voters, including Colorado's gubernatorial election (Governor and Lieutenant Governor), one U.S. Senate seat (Class II, currently held by Senator John Hickenlooper, term expiring 2027, though Class III seat held by Michael Bennet expires 2029), all four of Colorado's U.S. House seats (Amherst is in District 4), state legislative seats (Colorado House District 63 and Senate District 1 or adjacent districts depending on redistricting), and all county constitutional offices. Voters can locate their assigned polling place or voter service center through the Colorado Secretary of State's voter information portal or by contacting the Phillips County Clerk directly. Colorado provides comprehensive election transparency with publicly accessible voter registration lists (with some personal information redacted), campaign finance disclosures through the Secretary of State's TRACER system, candidate filings, and detailed precinct-level election results published after each election. Historical election data for Phillips County is maintained by the County Clerk and available upon public records request under CORA.
Public Records Transparency Score
Court Records: ✅ Online Statewide Portal | Property: ⚠️ Partial Online | Arrest Logs: ⚠️ Limited Online | Vital Records: ✅ Online Ordering | Business: ✅ Free State Database | Elections: ✅ Online Registration & Results | Overall: 7.2/10 — Phillips County provides solid access to state-level systems for courts, vital records, and business entities, though local property and law enforcement records require more direct county contact typical of rural Colorado jurisdictions
Frequently Asked Questions
1 What is the process for someone who is arrested in Amherst, Phillips County, Colorado to go through the jail and court system?
If you are arrested in Amherst, Colorado, you will be transported to the Phillips County Detention Center for booking and processing. During booking, officers record personal information, take fingerprints, and photograph the arrestee. After booking, you may be held pending arraignment, or released on bail. The Phillips County Inmate Search portal allows online lookup of current inmates. Contact the Phillips County Clerk of Courts for case information.
2 What are the school district and education performance data for Amherst, Phillips County, Colorado?
The Amherst area is served by public school districts in Phillips County, Colorado. School performance data, enrollment statistics, and district boundaries are available through the Colorado Department of Education website. School report cards, test scores, and demographic data are published annually for all public schools.
3 What are the crime statistics for Amherst, Phillips County, Colorado?
Crime statistics for Amherst, Colorado are reported annually to the FBI Uniform Crime Reporting program. Local crime data including incident reports, arrest statistics, and calls for service are typically published by the Amherst Police Department on their official website. The Colorado Attorney General also publishes annual crime statistics by jurisdiction.
4 What publicly accessible records can be obtained from the Amherst, Phillips County, Colorado Library?
The Amherst Public Library provides residents with access to public records research tools. Library cardholders can access online genealogy databases, historical newspaper archives, and Colorado government document repositories. Reference librarians can assist with records requests, ancestry searches, and government document navigation.
5 Where is the Amherst, Phillips County, Colorado Public Library located?
The Amherst Public Library main branch is located in Amherst, Colorado. Check the Amherst city website or library system portal for branch addresses, hours of operation, and available services.
6 Where is the nearest fingerprinting office located in Amherst, Phillips County, Colorado?
Fingerprinting services in Amherst, Colorado are available through the Amherst Police Department and authorized IdentoGO or Fieldprint enrollment centers. Fingerprinting is required for employment background checks, professional licensing (nursing, teaching, real estate), concealed carry permits, and adoption applications. Contact the Phillips County Sheriff's Office or local law enforcement for walk-in fingerprinting options.
7 What are the requirements for obtaining vital records from Amherst, Phillips County, Colorado, and what information is provided in the records?
To obtain vital records in Amherst, Colorado, contact the Colorado Vital Statistics Unit. Birth and death certificates can be ordered online, by mail, or in person. Marriage licenses are issued by the Phillips County Clerk's office. Certified copies require valid government-issued photo ID and a processing fee. Online ordering is available through VitalCheck or the state health department portal.
8 About Police Reports
Police reports from Amherst, Colorado can be obtained from the Amherst Police Department or the Phillips County Sheriff's Office. Submit a request in person, by mail, or online with the incident report number, date, and your identification. Under the Colorado Open Records Act, most incident reports are public records. Processing typically takes 5-10 business days. Traffic accident reports may also be available through the Colorado DMV.
9 About background check
A background check in Amherst, Phillips County, Colorado typically includes a review of criminal history records, arrest records, court judgments, and sex offender registry status. Employers, landlords, and licensing boards frequently request background checks. You can request a Colorado criminal history report through the Colorado Department of Public Safety. Federal background checks are available through the FBI Identity History Summary program.