Citizen Observer Project Goals



Colorado Sunshine Laws allow citizens to observe the process and decisions of public meetings. The Observer Corps of the League of Women Voters (LWV) has long encouraged observing and reporting meeting details to interested groups. At the inception of the United Nations in 1945, members of the LWV were invited as official Observers!



The League of Women Voters of Larimer County has partnered with Colorado-based organizations aimed at creative solutions to support embattled local journalism while fostering public trust. Our participation in this sphere exemplifies the LWV's priorities of voter education and our hallmark position, Citizens Right to Know:

The League of Women Voters of the United States believes that democratic government depends upon informed and active participation at all levels of government. The League further believes that governmental bodies must protect the citizen's right to know by giving adequate notice of proposed actions, holding open meetings, and making public records accessible.

Colorado Citizen Observers (COCO)

Participants observe local government meetings and report on what has occurred for the public, voters, LWV's civic efforts, and journalists. Observers learn more about what is happening within our government and, by their presence and submitting reports, encourage government bodies to be more open, accessible, and responsive to those they serve. 

Observers maintain the nonpartisan stance of the League of Women Voters of Larimer County. Prior to a meeting, Observers introduce themselves and wear nametags that identify each as a League member. However, Observers do just that—observe. They do not speak on any issues. During the meeting, Observers take notes regarding any action or discussion they consider noteworthy, including the names of those speaking and voting, as well as how participants voted.

“for the public, voters, LWV’s civic efforts, and journalists.”  

Observer Reports

Participants in the Colorado Citizen Observers project (COCO) help to raise public awareness by observing meetings and filing unbiased, publishable reports of those meetings. They learn established rules for behavior at public meetings and how to make useful notes.

You can read Observer Reports on our Blogs.

They are also available on Substack.

Diverse applicants for COCO are encouraged. Observers are trained but are not required to be members of LWV. Our ability to pay them depends on current funding of the project.

• For more information about the project visit Colorado Citizen Observers
• To see the monthly meeting schedule Observers attend Click Here
• If you are interested in being a COCO observer, email Sonia Koetting at citizenobservers@lwv-larimercounty.org