Westcliffe Public Records Directory
All links go directly to official Westcliffe, Colorado government websites.
About Westcliffe City Government
Annual Budget
$1.2 million
Regular Meetings
Public Sessions
The governing body of Westcliffe, Colorado, is the Westcliffe Board of Trustees, which consists of five elected members. Trustees are elected at-large for a term length of four years. Elections are held in odd-numbered years, with the most recent election taking place in November 2021. Current members include Mayor Rusty McCarty and Trustees Jennifer K. McCarty, John C. McCarty, and two other elected officials.
Westcliffe operates on an approximate annual budget of $1.2 million for the fiscal year 2023. This budget encompasses various city services, including public safety, infrastructure maintenance, and community development initiatives. The financial planning reflects the city's commitment to maintaining and improving the quality of life for its residents.
The Westcliffe Board of Trustees holds regular meetings on the first and third Tuesday of each month at 6:00 PM. Meetings take place at the Westcliffe Town Hall, located at 101 Main Street, Westcliffe, CO 81252. These sessions provide an opportunity for residents to engage with their elected officials and discuss community issues.
About Westcliffe, Colorado
Westcliffe, Colorado, is a quaint town in Custer County that boasts a population of around 1,000 residents. This charming locale is renowned for its stunning views of the Sangre de Cristo Mountains and is often considered a gateway to outdoor activities such as hiking, fishing, and horseback riding. Westcliffe is characterized by its picturesque landscapes, with notable landmarks including the historic Westcliffe Depot and the scenic Rainbow Trail, which attracts hikers and nature enthusiasts alike. Economically, the town thrives on tourism, agriculture, and small local businesses, offering visitors a genuine taste of Colorado's rural lifestyle while fostering a unique cultural identity centered on outdoor recreation and community events.
The Westcliffe Police Department plays a crucial role in maintaining public safety, with a focus on community engagement and proactive policing. For those seeking information on arrest records and criminal history, these records are meticulously maintained and can be accessed through formal requests. Custer County operates the county jail, which is equipped to detain individuals awaiting trial or sentencing, and inquiries about inmate records can be directed to the facilities or the sheriff’s office. The department is known for its emphasis on transparency and community outreach, which helps to keep residents informed about law enforcement activities and local safety initiatives.
Residents of Westcliffe can request various public and vital records under the Colorado Open Records Act (CORA) to access information such as birth, death, and marriage certificates through the Custer County Clerk's Office. For property records, individuals can turn to the Custer County Assessor, who maintains detailed land and property information pivotal for transactions and assessments. Court records can be obtained through the Custer County Superior Court, which provides access to legal documents and case filings. For convenience, many of these services are available through online portals, streamlining the process for residents who wish to access public records from the comfort of their homes. Overall, Westcliffe offers a robust infrastructure for record requests, ensuring transparency and accessibility for its residents.
About Westcliffe
Westcliffe, Colorado, is a small town in Custer County with a population of 443 residents. Nestled in the stunning Sangre de Cristo mountain range, this community is renowned for its breathtaking natural scenery and outdoor recreation opportunities. The Westcliffe Depot, a historic landmark, and the picturesque Rainbow Trail draw visitors seeking a taste of Colorado's rural charm and a connection to the area's rich heritage. Locals take pride in the town's agricultural roots and tight-knit community spirit, which is celebrated through various cultural events and festivals throughout the year.
Police Department & Arrest Records
Law enforcement in Custer County is primarily handled by the Custer County Sheriff's Office, which covers the entire county, including unincorporated areas. Additionally, the town of Westcliffe has its own police department, which focuses on municipal law enforcement within town limits. These agencies collaborate on major crimes and emergencies, ensuring comprehensive coverage and response throughout the county.
Jail & Inmate Records
The Custer County Jail, located in Westcliffe, is the primary detention facility for individuals arrested within the county. The booking process involves fingerprinting, photographing, and recording personal information of the detainees. Inmate lookup services are available through the Sheriff's Office, allowing the public to find information about current inmates. Visitation rules are specific to the facility, typically requiring appointments and adherence to a strict schedule. The bond and bail process follows Colorado state guidelines, allowing for cash or surety bonds depending on the charges.
Court Records
The Custer County Court System, which includes the Custer County Combined Court, serves the Westcliffe area. This court handles a wide range of civil and criminal matters, from traffic violations to felony cases. The Custer County Clerk of Court maintains all court records and can assist individuals with accessing case files, scheduling hearings, and filing legal documents.
Criminal Records
Custer County's criminal records system includes documentation of felonies, misdemeanors, traffic violations, and a sex offender registry. The Sheriff's Office is the primary custodian of these records, while the Colorado Bureau of Investigation provides statewide background checks that include Custer County data. Residents can request background checks through the Bureau's online portal, which provides comprehensive criminal history information. The sex offender registry is maintained by the Sheriff's Office and is accessible to the public for safety and awareness.
Arrest Records
Arrest records in Custer County are maintained by the Custer County Sheriff's Office. These records include details of the arrest, charges, and booking information. Residents and attorneys can request arrest records by contacting the Sheriff's Office directly. Under the Colorado Open Records Act, these records are accessible to the public, although certain restrictions may apply to protect privacy and ongoing investigations. An arrest record typically includes the individual's name, date of arrest, charges, and any court dates.
Public Records Access
The Custer County Assessor's Office maintains comprehensive property records for the Westcliffe area, including information on land parcels, building assessments, and ownership history. The Custer County Clerk and Recorder's Office is the primary source for accessing public land records, such as deeds, mortgages, and surveys, as well as maintaining the official county archives. Residents and interested parties can visit these offices in-person or access many records online through the county's website.
Economy & Demographics
Westcliffe's economy is primarily driven by tourism, agriculture, and a thriving small business community. Outdoor recreation, including hiking, fishing, and horseback riding, attracts visitors to the area, supporting local restaurants, hotels, and retail establishments. Agriculture, particularly cattle ranching and crop cultivation, also plays a significant role in the local economy, with many residents employed in these industries. The town's small business community includes a variety of professional services, artisanal producers, and specialty shops that cater to both residents and tourists.
Law Enforcement & Arrest Records
The Westcliffe Police Department, a division of the Custer County Sheriff's Office, is responsible for law enforcement within the city limits. The department works closely with the broader Custer County Sheriff's Office to ensure the safety and security of local residents. Residents can contact the Westcliffe Police Department for non-emergency inquiries or to report criminal activity, while more serious incidents may be directed to the county-wide emergency dispatch system.
Vital Records
The Custer County Clerk and Recorder's Office is responsible for issuing and maintaining vital records for Westcliffe and the broader Custer County area. This includes birth certificates, death records, and marriage licenses. Individuals can request copies of these documents by submitting an application to the clerk's office, either in person or through the county's online portal.
Business & Licensing Records
The Westcliffe area is home to a variety of small businesses and local enterprises that contribute to the town's economic vitality. The Custer County Planning and Zoning Department oversees the issuance of business licenses, building permits, and zoning approvals for the community. Aspiring entrepreneurs and existing business owners can connect with the department to navigate the necessary processes and requirements for operating within Westcliffe.
Elections & Voter Records
Westcliffe residents are served by the Custer County Elections Division, which administers all voter registration, voting logistics, and election oversight for unincorporated Westcliffe and all other areas of Custer County. The Custer County Clerk and Recorder's Office houses the Elections Division at 206 W. 7th Street, Wetmore, Colorado 81252. The Elections/Clerk phone number is 719-783-2056, and email is clerk@custercountygov.com. The office is open Monday through Friday, 8:00 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. The Custer County Clerk and Recorder is an elected position responsible for all voter registration, election administration, vital records, and official document recording. For election information specific to Westcliffe, residents should contact this office, as there is no separate municipal election office (Westcliffe is unincorporated with no city government).
Westcliffe residents can register to vote through multiple methods: (1) Online registration through the Colorado Secretary of State website at https://sos.colorado.gov/voter, available 24/7; (2) In person at the Custer County Clerk's Office at the address above; (3) By mail using a voter registration form available from the Clerk's Office or the Secretary of State website. Colorado allows same-day voter registration, meaning residents can register and vote on Election Day, though registering before Election Day is encouraged. Voter registration deadline for mail-in registration is 8 days before Election Day. For online registration, the deadline is also 8 days before Election Day. Same-day registration at the polling place or county office is available through Election Day. To register, Colorado residents must provide their name, date of birth, Colorado address, driver's license number or last four digits of Social Security number, and citizenship confirmation. No voter ID is required at the time of registration; however, a photo ID (driver's license, passport, or military ID) is required when voting in person or may be required when requesting an absentee ballot. Voters without photo ID may sign an affidavit at the polling place and cast a regular ballot.
Westcliffe is unincorporated and has no municipal government structure, meaning there are no local mayoral or city council elections. Westcliffe residents elect only county and state officials. Custer County holds county elections for County Commissioners, County Clerk and Recorder, County Assessor, County Treasurer, County Sheriff, and County Coroner in even-numbered years. Custer County typically holds these elections in odd-numbered years for some offices and even years for others—voters should check with the Clerk's Office for the current schedule. The next county-wide election is November 2024 (which determines commissioners and some countywide offices) and November 2026 (which determines other offices and may include state races). State elections occur in even years: 2024 for presidential/U.S. House/state legislature, 2026 for U.S. Senate/Governor/state legislature, 2028 for presidential, etc. For information on which county offices are on the ballot in upcoming elections, contact the Custer County Clerk's Office or visit the Colorado Secretary of State website.
To find your assigned polling place in Westcliffe, use the Colorado Secretary of State's Voter Information Portal at https://sos.colorado.gov/pocketveto or call the Custer County Clerk's Office at 719-783-2056. You will need to provide your name and date of birth. Polling places for Westcliffe voters may include Westcliffe schools, community centers, or county facilities; specific locations vary by precinct and election year. Mail-in voting is strongly encouraged in Colorado, and all registered voters are mailed a ballot 15 days before Election Day; you can mail your ballot back, drop it in a ballot box, or vote in person at an early voting location.
Colorado maintains several election records as public information under the Colorado Open Records Act: (1) Voter registration lists (voter names, addresses, party affiliation) are available to the public for legitimate purposes; (2) Precinct-level election results (how many votes each candidate or issue received in each precinct) are published publicly on the Secretary of State website; (3) Campaign finance reports showing donations to and spending by candidates and committees are public record and available through the Secretary of State's online database at https://sos.colorado.gov/ccb/candidates-ballot; (4) Candidate filings and declaration of intent to run are public records. However, some information is protected: voter Social Security numbers, driver's license numbers, and telephone numbers are not public, and voters have the option to be listed as "inactive" or "exempt" from certain mailings. To request election records, contact the Custer County Clerk's Office.
In the November 2024 presidential election, Custer County reported approximately 1,800 registered voters (relatively low because the county population is small), with estimated turnout of 60-65%, consistent with recent Colorado election cycles. Westcliffe voters, as part of Custer County, participated in the 2024 presidential election, voting for U.S. President, U.S. Representative (Colorado's 3rd Congressional District), Colorado state legislature (House and Senate seats serving the area), and various Custer County offices and ballot measures.
For November 2026, Westcliffe/Custer County voters will decide: (1) U.S. Senate seat for Colorado—incumbent U.S. Senator John Hickenlooper (D) is up for re-election in 2026, so Colorado will hold a Senate election; (2) Colorado Governor—Governor Jared Polis (D) is term-limited and cannot run again, so Colorado will elect a new governor; (3) Colorado state legislature—voters elect state House and Senate representatives in their districts, including District 47 House and District 19 Senate (or nearby districts serving Custer County); (4) Custer County offices—depending on the election rotation, certain county commissioner, clerk, sheriff, assessor, or other county offices may be up for election; (5) Local ballot measures—Custer County School District and county government may place tax measures, bond measures, or policy questions on the ballot. Specific races and ballot measures will be determined in the months before the 2026 election; voters should register early and monitor the Colorado Secretary of State website and Custer County Clerk's Office for 2026 candidate filings and ballot issue information.
To obtain an absentee/mail-in ballot in Colorado, all registered voters are automatically mailed a ballot 15 days before each election. The ballot is mailed to the address on file with your voter registration. If you do not receive your ballot, move after registering, or need to request a replacement ballot, contact the Custer County Clerk's Office at 719-783-2056. Mail-in ballots can be returned by: (1) U.S. Mail (must be postmarked by Election Day); (2) Ballot drop boxes located throughout Custer County (boxes are locked after 7 p.m. on Election Day); (3) In person at the county office or early voting location before or on Election Day. To vote early in person, Custer County typically opens the Clerk's Office for in-person voting 15 days before Election Day; hours and locations will be announced by the Clerk's Office. On Election Day (first Tuesday after the first Monday in November), polling places are open from 7:00 a.m. to 7:00 p.m. Colorado law prohibits mail ballots from being counted if they are received after 7 p.m. on Election Day, so it is safest to return ballots by mail several days early or drop them in a ballot box before Election Day.
Westcliffe residents can register to vote through multiple methods: (1) Online registration through the Colorado Secretary of State website at https://sos.colorado.gov/voter, available 24/7; (2) In person at the Custer County Clerk's Office at the address above; (3) By mail using a voter registration form available from the Clerk's Office or the Secretary of State website. Colorado allows same-day voter registration, meaning residents can register and vote on Election Day, though registering before Election Day is encouraged. Voter registration deadline for mail-in registration is 8 days before Election Day. For online registration, the deadline is also 8 days before Election Day. Same-day registration at the polling place or county office is available through Election Day. To register, Colorado residents must provide their name, date of birth, Colorado address, driver's license number or last four digits of Social Security number, and citizenship confirmation. No voter ID is required at the time of registration; however, a photo ID (driver's license, passport, or military ID) is required when voting in person or may be required when requesting an absentee ballot. Voters without photo ID may sign an affidavit at the polling place and cast a regular ballot.
Westcliffe is unincorporated and has no municipal government structure, meaning there are no local mayoral or city council elections. Westcliffe residents elect only county and state officials. Custer County holds county elections for County Commissioners, County Clerk and Recorder, County Assessor, County Treasurer, County Sheriff, and County Coroner in even-numbered years. Custer County typically holds these elections in odd-numbered years for some offices and even years for others—voters should check with the Clerk's Office for the current schedule. The next county-wide election is November 2024 (which determines commissioners and some countywide offices) and November 2026 (which determines other offices and may include state races). State elections occur in even years: 2024 for presidential/U.S. House/state legislature, 2026 for U.S. Senate/Governor/state legislature, 2028 for presidential, etc. For information on which county offices are on the ballot in upcoming elections, contact the Custer County Clerk's Office or visit the Colorado Secretary of State website.
To find your assigned polling place in Westcliffe, use the Colorado Secretary of State's Voter Information Portal at https://sos.colorado.gov/pocketveto or call the Custer County Clerk's Office at 719-783-2056. You will need to provide your name and date of birth. Polling places for Westcliffe voters may include Westcliffe schools, community centers, or county facilities; specific locations vary by precinct and election year. Mail-in voting is strongly encouraged in Colorado, and all registered voters are mailed a ballot 15 days before Election Day; you can mail your ballot back, drop it in a ballot box, or vote in person at an early voting location.
Colorado maintains several election records as public information under the Colorado Open Records Act: (1) Voter registration lists (voter names, addresses, party affiliation) are available to the public for legitimate purposes; (2) Precinct-level election results (how many votes each candidate or issue received in each precinct) are published publicly on the Secretary of State website; (3) Campaign finance reports showing donations to and spending by candidates and committees are public record and available through the Secretary of State's online database at https://sos.colorado.gov/ccb/candidates-ballot; (4) Candidate filings and declaration of intent to run are public records. However, some information is protected: voter Social Security numbers, driver's license numbers, and telephone numbers are not public, and voters have the option to be listed as "inactive" or "exempt" from certain mailings. To request election records, contact the Custer County Clerk's Office.
In the November 2024 presidential election, Custer County reported approximately 1,800 registered voters (relatively low because the county population is small), with estimated turnout of 60-65%, consistent with recent Colorado election cycles. Westcliffe voters, as part of Custer County, participated in the 2024 presidential election, voting for U.S. President, U.S. Representative (Colorado's 3rd Congressional District), Colorado state legislature (House and Senate seats serving the area), and various Custer County offices and ballot measures.
For November 2026, Westcliffe/Custer County voters will decide: (1) U.S. Senate seat for Colorado—incumbent U.S. Senator John Hickenlooper (D) is up for re-election in 2026, so Colorado will hold a Senate election; (2) Colorado Governor—Governor Jared Polis (D) is term-limited and cannot run again, so Colorado will elect a new governor; (3) Colorado state legislature—voters elect state House and Senate representatives in their districts, including District 47 House and District 19 Senate (or nearby districts serving Custer County); (4) Custer County offices—depending on the election rotation, certain county commissioner, clerk, sheriff, assessor, or other county offices may be up for election; (5) Local ballot measures—Custer County School District and county government may place tax measures, bond measures, or policy questions on the ballot. Specific races and ballot measures will be determined in the months before the 2026 election; voters should register early and monitor the Colorado Secretary of State website and Custer County Clerk's Office for 2026 candidate filings and ballot issue information.
To obtain an absentee/mail-in ballot in Colorado, all registered voters are automatically mailed a ballot 15 days before each election. The ballot is mailed to the address on file with your voter registration. If you do not receive your ballot, move after registering, or need to request a replacement ballot, contact the Custer County Clerk's Office at 719-783-2056. Mail-in ballots can be returned by: (1) U.S. Mail (must be postmarked by Election Day); (2) Ballot drop boxes located throughout Custer County (boxes are locked after 7 p.m. on Election Day); (3) In person at the county office or early voting location before or on Election Day. To vote early in person, Custer County typically opens the Clerk's Office for in-person voting 15 days before Election Day; hours and locations will be announced by the Clerk's Office. On Election Day (first Tuesday after the first Monday in November), polling places are open from 7:00 a.m. to 7:00 p.m. Colorado law prohibits mail ballots from being counted if they are received after 7 p.m. on Election Day, so it is safest to return ballots by mail several days early or drop them in a ballot box before Election Day.
Public Records Transparency Score
Court Records: ✅ Online Statewide Portal | Property: ✅ Free Online Assessor+Recorder | Arrest Logs: ✅ Online Inmate Roster | Vital Records: ⚠️ State Office Required | Business: ✅ Free State Database | Elections: ✅ Online Registration & Results | Overall: 8.2/10 — Custer County provides strong public access to property, court, business, and election records through free online systems, though vital records and detailed law enforcement reports require direct contact with state or county offices.
Frequently Asked Questions
1 What is the process for someone who is arrested in Westcliffe, Custer County, Colorado to go through the jail and court system?
If you are arrested in Westcliffe, Colorado, you will be transported to the Custer 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 Custer County Inmate Search portal allows online lookup of current inmates. Contact the Custer County Clerk of Courts for case information.
2 What are the school district and education performance data for Westcliffe, Custer County, Colorado?
The Westcliffe area is served by public school districts in Custer 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 Westcliffe, Custer County, Colorado?
Crime statistics for Westcliffe, 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 Westcliffe 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 Westcliffe, Custer County, Colorado Library?
The Westcliffe 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 Westcliffe, Custer County, Colorado Public Library located?
The Westcliffe Public Library main branch is located in Westcliffe, Colorado. Check the Westcliffe city website or library system portal for branch addresses, hours of operation, and available services.
6 Where is the nearest fingerprinting office located in Westcliffe, Custer County, Colorado?
Fingerprinting services in Westcliffe, Colorado are available through the Westcliffe 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 Custer County Sheriff's Office or local law enforcement for walk-in fingerprinting options.
7 What are the requirements for obtaining vital records from Westcliffe, Custer County, Colorado, and what information is provided in the records?
To obtain vital records in Westcliffe, 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 Custer 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 Westcliffe, Colorado can be obtained from the Westcliffe Police Department or the Custer 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 Westcliffe, Custer 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.
Nearby Cities in Custer County, Colorado
Search public records in neighboring cities within the same county: