Boulder County names new facility after former Sheriff Joe Pelle

In recognition of his two decades of dedicated service, Boulder County's new alternative sentencing facility will bear the name of former Sheriff Joe Pelle, following a 2-1 vote by county commissioners on Oct. 29.

Commissioners Ashley Stolzmann and Claire Levy cast the decisive votes in support of the recognition, while Commissioner Marta Loachamin opposed the measure, suggesting instead that the naming opportunity be used to recognize Indigenous communities. Loachamin also noted that she opposed a change in county policy made in May of 2024 that removed a restriction which previously provided that county facilities could not be named for a living person.

The facility, designed to house approximately 252 people, will serve as a replacement for halfway houses and accommodate work release inmates. The facility is located near the Boulder County Jail. The project represents the culmination of Pelle's long-standing vision for alternative sentencing options in Boulder County.

A Boulder native and former Niwot resident, Pelle's 43-year career in public safety began in January 1980 when he joined the Boulder County Sheriff's Office as a deputy.

Before being elected sheriff in 2002, Pelle served in various leadership positions at both the Boulder County Sheriff's Office and the Boulder Police Department. He went on to serve an unprecedented five terms as Boulder County Sheriff, making him one of the longest-serving sheriffs in the county's history. In fact, voters twice extended the term limits for the county sheriff during his term of service, enabling Pelle to seek re-election.

Pelle's leadership was tested through numerous challenges, including the 2010 Fourmile Fire, the devastating 2013 floods, the COVID-19 pandemic, and the Marshall Fire.

The alternative sentencing facility project was made possible through a 0.185% sales tax initiative, which voters approved in 2018. This sales tax measure aimed at addressing local correctional infrastructure needs, was expected to generate approximately $50 million in revenue to provide funding for the construction of a new alternative facility while simultaneously funding necessary upgrades to the existing jail complex.

This strategic approach to public funding demonstrated the community's commitment to modernizing and diversifying its correctional infrastructure through a modest but impactful temporary tax increase.

While Pelle had retired before construction began, he was instrumental in securing the funding and attended the groundbreaking ceremony.

Pelle's educational background includes a Master's Degree in Criminal Justice from the University of Colorado and a Bachelor's Degree in Criminal Justice with a minor in Public Administration from Metropolitan State College. Throughout his career, he championed the establishment of "Character First" as the working motto of the Sheriff's Office.

The naming of the facility serves as a lasting tribute to Pelle's commitment to progressive law enforcement practices and his decades of service to Boulder County.

Pelle's lasting impact on Boulder County extends well beyond his tenure as Sheriff. Pelle was recently honored with the prestigious Jim Swaeby Peace Award from the Boulder Rotary Club. This honor, which celebrates individuals who advance international understanding and peace through service, reflects the high regard the community still holds for Pelle's leadership and dedication to public service. The award acknowledges his commitment to fostering goodwill and building bridges between law enforcement and the community - a legacy that resonates strongly with both the Rotary's ideals and the values of Boulder County residents.

Even in retirement, Pelle's contributions to the community continue to serve as a model for the kind of public service that promotes peace and understanding through professional excellence.