In their efforts to unite the east and west ends of Montrose County, commissioners say they've decided to create a new west end planning commission.

The new commission will be made up of five regular members and one alternate, who will report directly to the county's existing planning commission.

Officials say meetings will be held once a month, so west end residents don't have to drive nearly two hours to voice their opinions on county growth.

Commissioners say as they continue to work on their master plan, and receive proposals for mineral and uranium mills in the area, input from west end residents is vital to the county's development.

"The West End has never had a voice like this in county matters," said Montrose County Commissioner Allan Belt. "To us, east and west, regardless of population, are both part of Montrose County and we need to bring them into the fold."

Commissioners say they will announce the new commission's members during their July 21 meeting. They say after a few weeks of training, the new commission will be ready to hold their first meeting.