La Plata County research analyst Danni Lorrigan presented a seven-page statement that outlines the priorities, which include coordinating with federal, state, tribal and municipal monitoring; emission-reduction efforts; and avoiding a federal non-attainment ozone designation.

Lorrigan said the county government does not have much regulatory authority over air quality, but setting priorities will still help negotiations with environmental agencies and help educate the public.

Also at Tuesday's meeting, residents from the Heartland Acres subdivision on Florida Mesa voiced concerns about a proposed gas well BP has a permit to build.

Three of the subdivision's residents, Dwayne Howell, Sandy Peterson and Rod Heaston, said the county approved a permit to build a gas-well unit next to their subdivision without much consideration or discussion with property owners.

They said they oppose the new project because there is already a well pad where a new well could be drilled.

They voiced frustration working with the county's planning office and requested the board revoke the permit, and reconsider all the options and the wishes of the residents.

"We don't believe proper protocol was followed here. All of a sudden we hear the permit has been issued," Heaston said. "But I don't see the reason behind it. They already have a viable pad."

The board referred the issue to County Manager Shawn Nau.

Additionally, the board appointed Karen Zink as the new board member of the San Juan Basin Health Department board of directors.

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Kathrine Warren is an intern at The Durango Herald.