What's Happening?
The town of Hartman, located in southeastern Colorado, has been declared abandoned following a severe drinking water crisis and the resignation of all local public leaders. The announcement was made by Colorado's Secretary of State, Jena Griswold, on July
29, after it was reported that the town's water supply had been without chlorine for over a month, rendering it non-potable and foul-smelling. Hartman had been under a boil water order for several months, and the lack of a functioning local government further exacerbated the situation. The town, which had a population of fewer than 60 people according to the 2020 census, was unable to hold local elections or maintain its water infrastructure. The responsibility for the town's infrastructure will now fall to Prowers County, unless an appeal is successful.
Why It's Important?
The abandonment of Hartman highlights significant challenges in maintaining essential services in small, rural communities. The situation underscores the critical importance of local governance in managing public utilities and infrastructure. The failure to address the water crisis in Hartman not only affected the health and safety of its residents but also led to the dissolution of the town's government. This event may prompt other small towns to evaluate their infrastructure and governance to prevent similar outcomes. The case of Hartman serves as a cautionary tale about the potential consequences of political infighting and administrative neglect, which can leave communities vulnerable and without essential services.
What's Next?
With Hartman now officially abandoned, the responsibility for its water infrastructure and any remaining residents falls to Prowers County. The county will need to address the water contamination issues and ensure that clean water is provided to the area. This may involve significant investment in repairing or replacing the existing water infrastructure. Additionally, the situation may lead to discussions at the state level about how to better support small towns facing similar challenges, potentially leading to policy changes or increased funding for rural infrastructure projects.
