HOME | Rodney Cox For Count

Over Three Decades of Proven Leadership

MEET RODNEY

As a fifth-generation resident of Montezuma County, I have deep roots in this community and a lifelong commitment to its future. I was born and raised in Mancos, graduated from Mancos High School and San Juan Vocational Technical School, and have been married to my high school sweetheart for 38 years. Together, we have raised two children and are blessed with three grandchildren. My daughter and her family continue to call Montezuma County home.

I understand the culture, history, and values of this county because I have lived them. My family has been part of this community for generations, and I am committed to preserving the character, independence, and way of life that make this county special.

My connection to this community began in the 1950s, when my grandparents built Park Conoco, now Cox Conoco, and the Silver Peaks Café, now Silver Peaks Car Wash, in Mancos. Their investment in this community became part of our family’s legacy.

Since then, our family has continued to contribute to the local economy by creating jobs, supporting working families, paying federal employment taxes, and operating our businesses responsibly and accountably. We have seen firsthand the opportunities and challenges that come with running a business and raising a family in a rural community.

Public service has also been a part of my life from the beginning. My father served as both Mayor and Fire Chief. I grew up watching him serve our community, solve problems, and take responsibility for the people who depended on him. Public service was never just something I heard about—it was something I witnessed and experienced firsthand.

That history gives me more than a connection to this county; it gives me a responsibility to it. I understand what has been built here, what is worth protecting, and what we owe to the generations who come after us.

For the past 28 years, I have helped build and operate successful local multi-million-dollar businesses, coached high school basketball for 15 years, and dedicated more than 20 years to serving on several public boards throughout Montezuma County.

Before returning home, I spent 10 years in the semiconductor industry, primarily with Intel, a Fortune 500 company. These experiences—in business, community service, coaching, and corporate leadership—have given me the practical leadership, financial stewardship, and problem-solving skills needed to serve effectively as County Commissioner. I am committed to bringing that experience, along with a deep understanding of our community, to the Commission.

FOCUS AREAS

Practical Leadership. Measurable Solutions.
A Stronger Future for Montezuma County

Public Safety and Strong County Partnerships

Recruiting, Retaining, and Supporting County Employees

Public safety is one of the county’s most important responsibilities. Commissioners must work professionally and respectfully with the elected sheriff, sheriff’s office, detention center, emergency services, and other partners. My focus is practical support: recruitment, retention, fair and sustainable compensation discussions, and cooperation rooted in respect - not politics or ego.

County employees serve the public every day. They deserve clear expectations, useful training, consistent evaluation, and a workplace where good employees can grow. I support using data, employee feedback, and performance tools to strengthen departments and improve service to residents.

Responsible Budgeting and Revenue Decisions

Supporting Small Business

Montezuma County is one of the few counties in Colorado without a county sales tax. Any revenue discussion must be honest, transparent, and tied to specific needs. Budgeting should be sustainable, measurable, and respectful of taxpayers, with clear explanations of the need, cost, and expected result before asking residents or businesses for more.

Small businesses are the backbone of our local economy. After years in small business, I understand the pressure local owners face and the importance of reducing unnecessary barriers. I will listen to local business owners, look for regulations that can be eliminated, and ensure new opportunities do not come at the expense of businesses already investing here.

Tourism, Local Promotion, and County Facilities

Land, Water, and Resource Management

Tourism matters to Mancos, Dolores, Cortez, and surrounding communities. Our economy looks different in February than in July, and we should promote the assets that bring visitors while supporting the businesses and workers who serve them. The fairgrounds are also a major economic asset that can attract events, support agriculture and youth programs, and bring more people into local communities.

Land and water are central to Montezuma County’s future. With so much land managed by federal agencies, the Tribe, and other entities, county leadership must stay engaged and advocate for responsible land and watershed management. I support practical, data-driven efforts to strengthen watershed health, explore responsible water-enhancement opportunities, and help local providers and municipalities plan for long-term infrastructure needs.

Land Use and Property Rights

Leadership That Listens and Gets Results

County land use policy should be clear, fair, and practical. It should protect private property rights, support responsible growth, and give residents and businesses a process they can understand. I support reviewing the land use code and collaborating with our planning department and board to focus on what works for the entire county.

A county commissioner is one voice on a three-member board. Good leadership means building strong proposals, listening to residents, working with others, and respecting the process. I will bring forward realistic, sustainable, fact-based ideas, be a strong voice for Montezuma County, and challenge the norm when the facts and county needs call for it.