For the first time in its history, a woman is set to lead Colorado Counties, Inc.

The statewide county association announced Tuesday that Kelly Flenniken, formerly of Xcel Energy, will become its next executive director, effective Oct. 16.

She will replace John Swartout, who is retiring after more than four years at the helm. CCI represents 62 out of the state’s 64 counties. 

Flenniken most recently served as director of community relations for Xcel. She is also the former executive director of the Grand Junction Economic Partnership, and has held local government positions in Denver and Chicago.

Flenniken brings nearly 20 years of experience in public policy, leadership, and government relations to the position, according to a statement from the CCI board of directors Tuesday.

 “We are fortunate to have someone of Kelly’s caliber and expertise step up to lead CCI,” said CCI President Steve O’Dorisio, an Adams County commissioner. “We’re at a critical moment as counties address land use, housing affordability, and a wide range of pressing issues affecting our communities.”

Past CCI board president and Fremont County Commissioner Debbie Bell added: “We were fortunate to have a great candidate pool, and Kelly rose to the top with her coalition-building skills and effective leadership. We are excited to have her in this role while we move effectively into the future.”

Plans by Gov. Jared Polis to strip home-rule municipalities of land use authority in order to promote more housing put him at odds with CCI and the Colorado Municipal League during the 2023 legislative session. The governor has indicated he does not intend to change tactics for 2024, which could set up another showdown with the local government groups.