Sheriff Jason Mikesell promoted Commander Kevin Tedesco to Chief Deputy, a new position for the sheriff’s office. Tedesco received the promotion in a public ceremony on June 8.

During the ceremony, Mikesell paid tribute to Tedesco’s leadership in operations such as the Teller County Food Initiative when the county joined nonprofit organizations to fill gaps in food insecurity.

The initiative was the result of the federal government’s suspending benefits provided by SNAP – Supplemental Nutritional Assistance Program – in November.

In addition, Tedesco played a leading role in the sheriff’s recently enacted zero tolerance policy of criminal acts in Pike National Forest.

With the promotion, Tedesco appeared before the county commissioners last week as the acting fire marshal, in place of the sheriff. On Tedesco’s recommendation, the commissioners amended the Stage 2 Fire Ban to allow gas, liquid or propane fire pits, barbecues, stoves or lanterns.  In addition, the amendment allows pellet stoves and grills.

“These are allowed if the fuel source can be turned off and does not linger after being turned off,” Tedesco said.

All other Stage II Fire Ban restrictions remain in place.

Commissioner Erik Stone commented on Tedesco’s promotion.

“This is a higher administrative position where he will take on a greater role as he moves forward to a position where he will likely be our next sheriff,” Stone said, referring to Tedesco candidacy for the position for which he remains unopposed. “I would like to commend Sheriff Mikesell for making that move. This will give him more experience as he prepares for the job.”