Boulder County coroner resigns following internal investigation
Boulder County Coroner Emma Hall announced Thursday she will be stepping down after she took time away from the office following a third-party investigation that affirmed workplace complaints from employees including favoritism, antagonism and micromanagement.
“After taking a few weeks off to travel with my family, I have made the difficult decision to conclude my term on Jan. 11,” Hall said in a statement. “This decision stems from my desire to dedicate more time to my family, a luxury I have not had the chance to indulge in significantly during my time in office. I appreciate the years of support from the community.”
Hall said it’s crucial for the next coroner address two primary challenges still existing in the office: office accreditation and staff morale.
“Staff morale has been an enduring challenge that I inherited and personally confronted during my time in office,” Hall said. “Despite concerted efforts, fully resolving this issue proved to be a complex undertaking. I am hopeful that the incoming coroner will continue working towards improving staff morale and fostering a positive and professional work environment.”
Hall will be working with her executive level staff to ensure a smooth transition and that no interruptions in service occur over the next few weeks.
Hall first took office in 2011.
Boulder County Commissioners’ Communications Director Gloria Handyside confirmed Hall’s resignation.
Once the office becomes vacant, the Board of County Commissioners can appoint a new coroner. This would likely happen at a business meeting, Handyside said, although the board could set a special meeting for the appointment as well.
The new coroner will serve the remainder of Hall’s elected term, which ends in January of 2027.
The coroner is responsible for the day-to-day administration of the office as well as the daily management of cases. The coroner is also responsible for the determination of cause and manner of death for cases in the jursidiction.
