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Boulder City Council August 20th Regular Meeting

<h3>Well friends, this meeting was a big one.</h3>Council took up some of the most significant policy questions we'll see this year, and by the end of the evening had referred four major ballot measures to voters while rejecting another that many downtown businesses believed could help revitalize our local economy. Let's take them one by one.&nbsp;<h2>The Record:&nbsp;</h2><h3>Public Hearing: Second reading and consideration of a motion to adopt Ordinance 8758 submitting to the electors of the city of Boulder at the Regular Municipal Coordinated Election on Tuesday November 3, 2026, the question of authorizing the issuance of general obligation bonds for financing community recreation, safety infrastructure, and other capital projects</h3>Date of vote: 8/6/2026Outcome: Passed 8-0Category: Taxes and Fees <h3>What Happened:</h3>Council unanimously voted to place a $400 million General Obligation Bond (with a maximum payback of $650 million) on the November ballot. If approved by voters, the bonds would finance recreation facilities, public safety infrastructure and other capital projects and would be repaid through an increase in property taxes.Council made one amendment to the ballot language, replacing the word "aquatics" in the &nbsp;South Boulder Recreation Center with the more specific term “lap pool.”<figure id="figure-3uz03s09wmsoqlef1" data-full-width="" class=""><img id="3uz03s09wmsoqlef1" src="https://cdn.durable.co/blocks/36stYxPCwbAT4CLIUtxw3Qge4yhdqspcQkXkxqopJTKgHuPRbpINvy3lt4EGiLCr.png" alt="" title="" class="object-cover bg-gray-100 rounded-2xl md:rounded-3xl lg:rounded-4xl" style="aspect-ratio: 16/9; object-position: center center;" data-corners="large" data-aspect="16:9" data-caption="" data-positionx="undefined" data-positiony="undefined" data-fullwidth="true" data-mce-src="https://cdn.durable.co/blocks/36stYxPCwbAT4CLIUtxw3Qge4yhdqspcQkXkxqopJTKgHuPRbpINvy3lt4EGiLCr.png" data-mce-style="aspect-ratio: 16/9; object-position: center center;"></figure><h3>&nbsp;Public Hearing: Second reading and consideration of a motion to adopt Ordinance 8762 submitting to the electors of the city of Boulder at the Regular Municipal Coordinated Election to be held on Tuesday November 3, 2026, the question of authorizing an amendment of the Boulder Home Rule Charter to modify the calculation of the city’s debt limitation</h3>Date of vote: 8/6/2026Outcome: Passed 8-0Category: Taxes and Fees <h3>What Happened:</h3>Council unanimously approved a Charter amendment that would modify how the City's debt limit is calculated.This measure is directly tied to the bond proposal. Without this Charter change, the City would not have the legal authority to issue the amount of debt contemplated under the $400 million bond package.<figure id="figure-zjkf8ifnhwmsoqmw1n" data-full-width="" class=""><img id="zjkf8ifnhwmsoqmw1n" src="https://cdn.durable.co/blocks/37XYznBTMTNLdRMKkuKBMhgjKwi0x2LozhikO7iTw40NsyMWK1UQZLVsBXvHZt16.png" alt="" title="" class="object-cover bg-gray-100 rounded-2xl md:rounded-3xl lg:rounded-4xl" style="aspect-ratio: 16/9; object-position: center center;" data-corners="large" data-aspect="16:9" data-caption="" data-positionx="undefined" data-positiony="undefined" data-fullwidth="true" data-mce-src="https://cdn.durable.co/blocks/37XYznBTMTNLdRMKkuKBMhgjKwi0x2LozhikO7iTw40NsyMWK1UQZLVsBXvHZt16.png" data-mce-style="aspect-ratio: 16/9; object-position: center center;"></figure><h3> Public Hearing: Second reading and consideration of a motion to adopt Ordinance 8759 submitting to the electors of the city of Boulder at the Regular Municipal Coordinated Election to be held on Tuesday November 3, 2026, the question of raising taxes in the city of Boulder by the adoption of a Vacancy Excise Tax imposed on homes that are occupied for 183 days or less per year, with such amount to increase annually in accordance with the Denver-Aurora-Lakewood Consumer Price Index to support general city services</h3>Date of vote: 8/6/2026Outcome: Passed 7-1Category: Taxes and Fees<h3> What Happened:</h3>Council voted to place a Vacancy Excise Tax on the November ballot.The proposed tax would apply to homes occupied 183 days or fewer each year, with revenues supporting general city services.Councilmember Nicole Speer cast the lone "no" vote. A concern with this one is that similar taxes are currently being challenged in court in other communities.<figure id="figure-avmjivi1zomsoqo5vm" data-full-width=""><img id="avmjivi1zomsoqo5vm" src="https://cdn.durable.co/blocks/35B4ZDxKO6OOaLJgh7NjkZvJZV5StBP2GUxpJ7HW1jnqBR6FBe5v6cuzvaYCrurn.png" alt="" title="" class="object-cover bg-gray-100 rounded-2xl md:rounded-3xl lg:rounded-4xl" style="aspect-ratio: 16/9; object-position: center center;" data-corners="large" data-aspect="16:9" data-caption="" data-positionx="undefined" data-positiony="undefined" data-fullwidth="true" data-mce-src="https://cdn.durable.co/blocks/35B4ZDxKO6OOaLJgh7NjkZvJZV5StBP2GUxpJ7HW1jnqBR6FBe5v6cuzvaYCrurn.png" data-mce-style="aspect-ratio: 16/9; object-position: center center;"></figure><h3>Public Hearing: Second reading and consideration of a motion to adopt Ordinance 8761 submitting to the electors of the city of Boulder at the Regular Municipal Coordinated Election to be held on Tuesday November 3, 2026, the question of amending the Boulder Home Rule Charter to add a new Section 73, “Collective Bargaining for Firefighters,” creating a charter guaranteed right for full-time fire department employees to bargain collectively</h3>Date of vote: 8/6/2026Outcome: Passed 8-0Category: Other<h3>What Happened:</h3>Council unanimously referred a Charter amendment that would establish a charter-protected right for full-time Boulder firefighters to collectively bargain.<figure id="figure-0izkfx9npmsoqp0xs" data-full-width=""><img id="0izkfx9npmsoqp0xs" src="https://cdn.durable.co/blocks/1ewrbdVtHsFLL7rc5JKzEwvCK3gCGqOOEIi5tSpTZ1HI0XcZv5rD06BstEp075iK.png" alt="" title="" class="object-cover bg-gray-100 rounded-2xl md:rounded-3xl lg:rounded-4xl" style="aspect-ratio: 16/9; object-position: center center;" data-corners="large" data-aspect="16:9" data-caption="" data-positionx="undefined" data-positiony="undefined" data-fullwidth="true" data-mce-src="https://cdn.durable.co/blocks/1ewrbdVtHsFLL7rc5JKzEwvCK3gCGqOOEIi5tSpTZ1HI0XcZv5rD06BstEp075iK.png" data-mce-style="aspect-ratio: 16/9; object-position: center center;"></figure><h3>Public Hearing: Second reading and consideration of a motion to adopt Ordinance 8763 (1) determining the necessity of establishing the Boulder Downtown Development Authority, and (2) submitting to the qualified electors of the proposed Boulder Downtown Development Authority at the Regular Municipal Coordinated Election to be held on Tuesday November 3, 2026, the question concerning the formation of the Boulder Downtown Development Authority and a ballot issue to waive applicable revenue and spending limits in the city of Boulder, Colorado, declaring the necessity for an election on November 3, 2026, concerning the formation of such authority pursuant to Colo. Const. Art. X, Sec. 20 and statutory revenue limitations for such authority, allowing the city to pledge tax increment funds on behalf of the Boulder Downtown Development Authority, determining organizational aspects of the Boulder Downtown Development Authority board</h3>Date of vote: 8/6/2026Outcome: Failed &nbsp;4-4Category: Districts<h3>What Happened:</h3>After hours of passionate testimony from restaurant owners, retailers, commercial property owners and downtown advocates asking Council to let voters decide whether to establish a Downtown Development Authority, the proposal failed on a 4-4 vote.Those voting against the measure cited concerns that there had not been sufficient community engagement and expressed concern that future tax increment revenues could otherwise benefit taxing entities such as parks, transportation and open space.Supporters argued that the DDA represented one of the few meaningful economic development tools available to help reinvest in a downtown that continues to face significant challenges.Because the ordinance failed, the question will not appear on the November ballot.<figure id="figure-7btgwkl0nfmsoqq9xl" data-full-width=""><img id="7btgwkl0nfmsoqq9xl" src="https://cdn.durable.co/blocks/20rqKT1bJPzgDdVqjtb3GgHl2ztoDpRB6FPyg6ermZk2xL1m1KkyDE8anWFLwNIr.png" alt="" title="" class="object-cover bg-gray-100 rounded-2xl md:rounded-3xl lg:rounded-4xl" style="aspect-ratio: 16/9; object-position: center center;" data-corners="large" data-aspect="16:9" data-caption="" data-positionx="undefined" data-positiony="undefined" data-fullwidth="true" data-mce-src="https://cdn.durable.co/blocks/20rqKT1bJPzgDdVqjtb3GgHl2ztoDpRB6FPyg6ermZk2xL1m1KkyDE8anWFLwNIr.png" data-mce-style="aspect-ratio: 16/9; object-position: center center;"></figure><h3>Public Hearing: Boulder Valley Comprehensive Plan (BVCP) Adoption: Consideration of one or more motions to: (1) approve or amend conditions of approval to the BVCP update made by the Planning Board; and (2) approve or amend conditions of approval to the BVCP update made by the Board ofCounty Commissioners; and (3) approve or amend recommended amendments to the BVCP update made by the Planning Board, County Planning Commission, and Board of County Commissioners.</h3>Date of vote: 8/6/2026Outcome: Passed 8-0Category: Density<h3>What Happened:</h3>Council unanimously approved the remaining conditions of approval and amendments necessary to complete adoption of the Boulder Valley Comprehensive Plan, bringing this multi-year planning effort to its conclusion.&nbsp;<figure id="figure-mvvyt1n388msoqrafl" data-full-width=""><img id="mvvyt1n388msoqrafl" src="https://cdn.durable.co/blocks/17QRwvCtJDc9J4FPsiQ27FdCSHWvnYreUndhKRdeaUyrE3wwWPqbFTkHQFsyMnO3.png" alt="" title="" class="object-cover bg-gray-100 rounded-2xl md:rounded-3xl lg:rounded-4xl" style="aspect-ratio: 16/9; object-position: center center;" data-corners="large" data-aspect="16:9" data-caption="" data-positionx="undefined" data-positiony="undefined" data-fullwidth="true" data-mce-src="https://cdn.durable.co/blocks/17QRwvCtJDc9J4FPsiQ27FdCSHWvnYreUndhKRdeaUyrE3wwWPqbFTkHQFsyMnO3.png" data-mce-style="aspect-ratio: 16/9; object-position: center center;"></figure><h3> Jenny's Take</h3>As I left Council Chambers Thursday night, I couldn't shake one question: How much debt is too much? In just the past few years, Boulder has committed itself to an extraordinary number of major financial obligations including: The South Boulder Creek Flood Mitigation Project, bonding backed by the Community, Culture, Resilience and Safety (CCRS) tax, Alpine-Balsam redevelopment, major recreation center investments, among others. And now Council is asking voters to authorize another $400 million+ in borrowing.To be clear, many of these projects may be worthwhile on their own. But taken together, I believe residents deserve a much more transparent explanation of how all of these commitments fit together before being asked to take on another generation of debt.Throughout the discussion, Council suggested that if this bond package does not pass, services and projects will have to be reduced. But before asking taxpayers for hundreds of millions of dollars, I think residents deserve answers to some fundamental questions.What projects are absolutely essential? Which are priority? Which projects could be phased over a longer period of time? How much money could be generated through consolidation once Alpine-Balsam is completed? Which City buildings could eventually be sold and how can those funds help? Where can operational efficiencies be found? How much are our increasingly stringent building and energy requirements adding to construction costs? Most importantly, what alternatives were seriously considered before concluding that another $400-650 million in debt was the answer?This conversation becomes even more frustrating because we've spent years hearing about the City's Long-Term Financial Strategy. After all of that work, is the big reveal really just asking taxpayers for another $650 million? That doesn't feel like a long-term “strategy”. It’s just another funding request by asking the community for a blank check.&nbsp;<h3>A Bigger Governance Problem</h3>Looking back over the last decade, I noticed something interesting. Not because Council's priorities changed. But because they largely didn't. Here are the priorities for the last 10 years:2017- Affordable housing, climate, transportation, civic area, economic vitality2018- Housing affordability, homelessness, transportation, climate, financial sustainability2019- Housing strategy, climate mobilization, racial equity, Vision Zero, economic recovery2020- COVID response, economic recovery, homelessness, climate, police reform2022- Housing, homelessness, transportation, occupancy reform, Area III planning, living wage, airport, broadband, crime reduction, mental health response, small business support2025- Fund Our Future, BVCP, homelessness, economic vitality, climate, transportation, governance, financial strategy, community safety, recreation investment&nbsp;2026- Wildfire resilience, Fund Our Future implementation, BVCP completion, tipped wage review, Xcel reliability, Sundance preparation Housing. Climate. Transportation. Homelessness. Financial strategy. These priorities appear year after year. Yet with only a few exceptions, I don't think most residents would say we've seen the kind of measurable progress one would expect after nearly a decade of focusing on the same issues. Nowhere in these priorities can you find, basic infrastructure, public safety, and only general references to economic vitality.&nbsp; Every new Council understandably comes in with new ideas and new passions. During the annual retreat, priorities are established, staff pivots, and the focus shifts again. I think Boulder needs a different model. We should establish three permanent priorities that never change regardless of who is elected.1. A Strong Local Economy: Because without a healthy tax base, everything else becomes harder.2. Maintaining Our City's Infrastructure: Roads. Parks. Recreation facilities. Water infrastructure. Buildings. Taking care of what we already own.3. Public Safety: Residents should never have to wonder whether basic safety services are adequately funded.Every Council should absolutely pursue its own priorities and policy initiatives, but only after these core responsibilities are being adequately met.The irony of the evening was not lost on me. Council voted unanimously to ask taxpayers to assume hundreds of millions of dollars in additional debt. Then, just minutes later, it voted down one of the few economic development tools intended to generate future investment in downtown Boulder and help repay the debt they just approved for the ballot.&nbsp;Was the DDA proposal perfect? No. Could it have been improved? Absolutely. But there were three months between now and Election Day to continue working with businesses, property owners, residents and community partners to make it work.Instead, the conversation ended before voters even had the opportunity to weigh in. Just one meeting ago, restaurants were left with no relief on the tip credit. This week, downtown businesses left without a DDA. And over the weekend, several businesses, including the beloved Lindsay's Boulder Deli, were vandalized. At some point we have to ask ourselves: How much more can Boulder businesses be expected to absorb before we stop asking businesses to carry the burden and start making economic vitality a governing principle instead of simply a campaign promise? <h3>Thank you for reading!</h3><h3>-Jenny</h3>

Boulder City Council August 6th Regular Meeting

Hello Friends,After more than a year of studies, legal opinions, public hearings, straw polls, delays, and hundreds of thousands of taxpayer dollars spent revisiting the same question, City Council finally made what was expected to be the defining decision on the future of Boulder Municipal Airport.This meeting centered on one fundamental question: Should Boulder continue operating its municipal airport and accept available FAA funding, or should it reject future FAA grants in an effort to preserve the possibility of closing the airport someday?After hours of discussion and approximately 70 public speakers, Council voted 8-1 to continue airport operations. However, one amendment adopted during the meeting means this issue will return to Council again. Given that fact, I am going to wait to classify this vote until the first grant is approved and this issue is concluded.<h2>The Record:&nbsp;</h2><h3>Public Hearing: Consideration of a motion to approve the continued operation of the airport in accordance with Boulder Revised Code 1981 sections 11-4 Airport</h3>Date of vote: 7/23/2026Outcome: Passed 8-1 with amendment<h3>What Happened</h3>City staff presented updated financial scenarios examining how the airport would perform under different funding models. At the heart of the discussion were two competing philosophies:Option 1: Continue operating the airport while accepting available FAA and CDOT grant funding to help maintain airport infrastructure.Option 2: Continue operating the airport but reject FAA grants, relying instead on local funding or limited state assistance in order to avoid expanding federal obligations. Staff also addressed the issue that has dominated nearly every airport conversation over the past two years: perpetuity.Many residents opposing FAA grants argued that accepting additional federal money would permanently give away the City's ability to determine the future of the airport. Staff and legal counsel explained that Boulder may already be operating under federal grant obligations due to grants accepted decades ago, including federal funding used to purchase airport property in 1959 and 1977, along with more recent FAA grants. Those obligations currently extend through at least 2040.Over the past eighteen months, Boulder has spent roughly $250,000 pursuing legal strategies surrounding this issue. While the City explored whether perpetual obligations could be challenged, the legal conclusion was essentially that the question is premature because Boulder remains contractually obligated through existing grant agreements until at least 2040.<h3> The Financial Scenarios</h3>Staff updated several funding models that compared airport finances through 2041. The key takeaway was straightforward:Scenario 1: Continue operating the airport while accepting FAA and CDOT grants. Generates about $29.3 million in grant funding and results in an estimated $8.4 million surplus by 2041, allowing nearly all planned capital improvements.Scenario 2: Continue operating without FAA grants. Grant funding largely disappears, only minimum maintenance is completed, and the airport is projected to run a $14.7 million deficit by 2041.Scenario 3A: Continue operating while preserving future closure options and accepting FAA grants. Produces nearly the same grant funding as Scenario 1 ($29.2 million) and ends with only a $735,000 deficit, making it the strongest option that preserves future flexibility.Scenario 3B: Reject FAA grants and rely primarily on state funding. Depending on the version, projected deficits range from approximately $7 million to $26 million, making these the least financially sustainable options.In short, staff's financial analysis consistently showed that accepting available FAA funding dramatically reduced the long-term cost of maintaining the airport compared with attempting to fund it locally.<h3>Public Comment</h3>Approximately 70 residents spoke during public comment.Supporters of continuing airport operations described the airport as:<ul><li>An important economic asset.&nbsp;</li><li>A training ground for future commercial, military, and public safety pilots.</li><li>An important part of Boulder's aerospace ecosystem.</li><li>A critical resource during floods, wildfires, medical emergencies, and search-and-rescue operations.&nbsp;</li></ul> Those opposed to accepting FAA funding focused primarily on:<ul><li>Aircraft noise.&nbsp; </li><li>Leaded aviation fuel.&nbsp; </li><li>Concerns over future land use.&nbsp; </li><li>The belief that accepting additional FAA grants could permanently limit Boulder's ability to repurpose the airport property.&nbsp;</li></ul>As with many airport meetings, public testimony reflected two very different visions for the airport's future.<h3>Council Action</h3>Council ultimately voted 8-1 to continue operating Boulder Municipal Airport. Before final approval, however, Council adopted an amendment proposed by Nicole Speer requiring that the next FAA grant agreement will return to Council for approval before acceptance. That amendment passed 6-3. In favor: Speer, Marquis, Schuchard, Brockett, Adams, WallachOpposed: Benjamin, Winer, KaplanWhile the amendment does not stop the City from accepting FAA grants, it adds another level of Council review before the next grant can be accepted.<h3>Why It Matters</h3>The vote largely settles the question of whether Boulder intends to continue operating its airport. It also acknowledges the financial reality presented by staff: maintaining airport infrastructure without federal assistance would place substantially greater costs on local taxpayers.However, because the next FAA grant must now return to Council for approval, the issue is unlikely to disappear entirely. Staff will need to determine how to implement the amendment, and the future grant decision will become political discussions rather than routine administrative actions.<h3> </h3><h3>Jenny's Take</h3>My opinion is that, overall, we are simply not in an economic position to be turning away money.&nbsp;This November, voters will likely see numerous tax measures from the City, County, and State. We owe it to taxpayers to manage the budget responsibly before asking them for more.Frankly, it surprises me that some of Council's strongest advocates for “fiscal responsibility”, including Nicole Speer and Mark Wallach, could argue that rejecting millions of dollars in available infrastructure funding is financially prudent. Whether someone likes the airport or not, it is one of the City's assets, and we have an obligation to maintain the infrastructure we already own.Another argument that repeatedly surfaced throughout the evening struck me as particularly odd: that this decision should be left to future councils or future generations. Why? Is this Council somehow less capable than those that came before it? Are today's challenges somehow less important than tomorrow's?The question is before us now. Continuing to postpone difficult decisions has become one of Boulder's defining habits. We have a long history of deferring maintenance, allowing infrastructure to deteriorate, and ultimately asking taxpayers to pay significantly more later. This was an opportunity to do the responsible thing today instead of continuing to kick the can down the road.I am also concerned about the amendment requiring Council approval of the future FAA grant. Because of that amendment, the City immediately missed out on a $150,000 grant, and it leaves the future feeling less certain than it otherwise would have been. Staff will now spend additional time and resources determining how to administer the amendment and bringing the future grant approval back to Council yet again. To me, the amendment felt more ideological than practical, and despite what appeared to be a decisive conclusion on airport operations, it ensures this conversation will continue consuming time, money, and staff resources.Finally, the meeting ended on an unexpected note. Councilmember Mark Wallach announced his resignation from City Council. Whether you agreed with him or disagreed with him, Mark dedicated many years to public service and was never afraid to engage deeply on difficult policy issues. I respect his service to Boulder and am genuinely disappointed to see him leave the Council. His departure marks the end of an era and will undoubtedly change the dynamics of the Council moving forward. Thank you for reading!<h3>-Jenny</h3>

Boulder City Council July 23rd Special Meeting

Hello Friends,After more than three hours of deliberation, City Council unanimously approved the Boulder Valley Comprehensive Plan (BVCP), as amended. This marks one of the most significant planning efforts Boulder undertakes and will help guide the city's growth and development for the next 20 years. As this was not a final approval of the document, I am not yet tracking it in the scorecard.If you only look at the final 9-0 vote, you might think the meeting was uneventful. It wasn't. Numerous straw polls and amendment votes throughout the evening shaped the final plan that Council ultimately approved.Over the last several weeks, the Planning Board and Boulder County Commissioners proposed numerous Conditions of Approval and Recommended Amendments to the BVCP.A Condition of Approval means that the body requiring the condition will approve the BVCP only if this change is included. If another approving body, such as City Council, does not accept that condition, the body that imposed it must reconsider its approval because it conditioned its vote on that language being included. The plan does not fail, but it returns to that body for reconsideration.A Recommended Amendment is different. Council may approve, modify, or reject it. If Council rejects the amendment, it simply falls away and does not move forward. There will be more conversation about these conditions and amendments over the next few months as the document cycles back through the approving bodies. I am going to start this Record a little different and begin with Jenny’s Take, as I think it is important to set the stage for the votes that you will see below.<h2>The Record:&nbsp;</h2><h3>Jenny's Take</h3>Council Member Nicole Speer captured what I believe was one of the most important themes of the evening. Here is a snapshot of her comments: "Over the last two years, our community has invested so much time and energy into this plan. We created a thoughtful, balanced vision together through an inclusive process. Seeing major changes come forward at the last possible minute makes it difficult to evaluate them in the context of the full plan and sends the wrong message to the community that participated in good faith. To support changes of this scale, I need a process that is fair, predictable, and transparent. Tonight, my decision to oppose these last-minute amendments is based on my responsibility to the inclusive process we promised the community and the trust they placed in us."I share many of those concerns. The Boulder Valley Comprehensive Plan is one of the most consequential policy documents the city adopts. It establishes the vision that will guide land use, housing, transportation, economic development, environmental stewardship, and neighborhood character for decades. Because of its significance, I believe major policy changes should be introduced through the same transparent and inclusive public process that shaped the rest of the plan.Overall, I was concerned by the number and scope of the Planning Board's late-stage amendments. Many of them proposed significant changes to core policies involving housing, industrial land, airport operations, and future land use. While boards and commissions play an important advisory role and amendments are a valuable part of the process, changes of this magnitude deserve ample public notice, meaningful community engagement, and careful deliberation before becoming part of the city's long-term vision. I also believe the Future Land Use Map deserves the closest attention going forward. Although the BVCP does not rezone property, the land use designations adopted in this plan will influence future zoning decisions, redevelopment proposals, and where additional housing may be contemplated over the next twenty years. In many ways, these maps are the foundation upon which future councils will make land use decisions.I appreciate the time Council devoted to carefully reviewing every proposed condition and amendment before unanimously approving the BVCP as amended. This meeting wasn't simply about adopting a planning document, it was about defining the values and vision that will guide the future of the Boulder Valley. As the plan moves through its final approval process, I hope the same commitment to transparency, collaboration, and thoughtful public engagement continues to guide every step.<h3>Public Hearing: City Council public hearing and consideration of a motion to approve the major update to the Boulder Valley Comprehensive Plan</h3>Date of vote: 6/25/2026Outcome: Passed Unanimously <h3> Conditions of Approval</h3>Housing Policy: "Full Spectrum" vs. "Affordable"&nbsp; This debate involved the language describing housing diversity. The Planning Board and Boulder County Commissioners proposed replacing references to "a full spectrum of housing types" with language emphasizing more affordable housing types and prioritizing middle-income housing.City staff recommended retaining the original language, explaining that limiting the policy to specific housing types could unintentionally constrain future housing strategies and reduce flexibility as community needs evolve. Staff also noted that middle-income housing is already addressed elsewhere in the plan.Council ultimately rejected the proposed changes on a 5-4 vote, retaining the original Policy 82 language. In Favor of Keeping the Original Language: Aaron Brockett, Matt Benjamin, Rob Kaplan, Taishya Adams, and Nicole Speer. Airport PolicyThe next topic was Policy 79, which addresses the future role of the Boulder Municipal Airport. At its June 16 meeting, the Planning Board approved substantial revisions to the airport policy, including removing references to flight training, aerial firefighting, and emergency medical flights while adding language related to noise management, cleaner aviation fuels, and electric aircraft. These changes were introduced during the Planning Board's final deliberations after the BVCP had been under development for many months.Council ultimately rejected the Planning Board's proposed airport revisions on a 6-3 vote.Council Members Voting to Retain the Original Policy: Tina Marquis, Nicole Speer, Rob Kaplan, Matt Benjamin, Aaron Brockett, and Taishya Adams. Beyond the airport itself, this discussion highlighted an important governance question: When should significant policy changes be introduced? Several council members expressed concern that substantial amendments to a years-long planning effort should receive adequate public review before becoming part of the city's long-range policy.Tribal Nations &amp; Indigenous PeoplesThe Boulder County Commissioners submitted three Conditions of Approval focused on tribal engagement, governance, and historical context.They proposed revising Policy 102 by removing the words "American Indian" from the title so it would simply reference Federally Recognized Tribal Nations, while also expanding the policy to apply to both the city and county.They also proposed modifying Policy 103 by removing references to the county's ongoing engagement with local Indigenous peoples, leaving that commitment as a city policy.Council approved both of these changes.Finally, the County requested removing the four-page "50 Years of Planning" historical narrative from the BVCP, arguing that it presented an incomplete history of planning in the Boulder Valley. Staff opposed deleting the section, explaining that it was intended to provide planning context, not serve as a comprehensive history, and suggested it could instead be moved to a companion website if the approving bodies could not reach agreement.Council rejected removing the historical narrative on a 7-2 vote, with Tara Winer and Mark Wallach voting in favor of its removal.Housing &amp; Future Land UseThe Boulder County Commissioners proposed several Future Land Use Map changes affecting Area II properties. Their proposal would have redesignated several properties from Neighborhood 1 to Rural to better reflect their existing character and long-term planning objectives.After discussion, Council approved the recommendation with an amendment, applying the Rural designation only to the Area II properties in Gunbarrel while leaving the remaining Area II properties unchanged. The amendment passed 7-2, with Matt Benjamin and Nicole Speer voting no.<h3>Amendments</h3>In addition to the Conditions of Approval, Council considered 14 Recommended Amendments submitted by the Planning Board (11), County Planning Commission (3), and Boulder County Commissioners (1). Unlike Conditions of Approval, these were advisory recommendations that Council could approve, modify, or reject individually.Planning Board Recommendations<ul><li>Future of Transportation: Remove airport from the listing of transportation services. Council denied this change 8-1&nbsp; </li><li>Industrial Land Use: Proposed allowing residential uses as a supporting use within the Industrial Future Land Use designation. Staff opposed the change, citing conflicts with the East Boulder Subcommunity Plan and the city's goal of preserving industrial land for employment uses. Council passed 7-1 </li><li>Welcome to the Plan: Adjusts the words from “move around” to “access destinations and opportunities”. Council passed 8-1 </li><li>Future of Housing: Adds small houses to small lots as new text. Amendment added by Tara Winer to include multi-unit buildings near transit. Council passed 6-3 </li><li>Future Land Use Strategy: Added "streets" to the definition of accessible areas, which staff supported. Council passed 8-1 </li><li>15-Minute Neighborhoods: Proposed requiring monitoring of progress toward 15-minute neighborhoods. Staff viewed this as an operational commitment rather than policy and did not recommend the change. Council denied this change 8-1&nbsp; </li><li>Neighborhood 1: Proposed removing language that new development should maintain compatible massing and setbacks with surrounding neighborhoods. Staff opposed removing these protections,saying they were important to preserving neighborhood character while allowing additional housing. County Commissioners denied this one so council did not consider. </li><li>Parks: Added language encouraging efficient parking design and recognizing transit stops as part of park access. Staff supported these changes. Council passed 5-4</li></ul> Future Land Use Map (3 amendments):<ul><li>Change the Unity Church and Goose Creek Plaza area from Neighborhood 1 to Neighborhood 2.&nbsp; </li><li>Redesignate 18 East Boulder properties from Innovation &amp; Production Hub to Industrial (contingent on allowing housing in Industrial areas).&nbsp; </li><li>Redesignate 10 East Boulder properties from Industrial to Innovation &amp; Production Hub.&nbsp; </li><li>Staff opposed all three map changes, stating they conflicted with the recently adopted East Boulder Subcommunity Plan and had not gone through public review. Council denied all three these changes due to the fact that no community engagement was done for these last minute changes.</li></ul>Boulder County Commissioners RecommendationAdd language clarifying that the city may provide limited utility services outside city limits when necessary to address health and safety concerns. Staff noted this authority already exists under state law, but did not object to adding the clarification. Council passed this 7-2County Planning Commission RecommendationsRevise the energy policy to specifically reference renewable energy generation. Council passed this 8-1Boulder City Council RecommendationsRob Kaplan introduced this amendment to section 89- Fire Adapted Communities. The city and county are committed to creating and sustaining a fire adapted community through a coordinated, region-wide approach to fire and wildfire resilience and prevention throughout the Boulder Valley. Strategies will address the full spectrum of fire and wildfire risk, including urban conflagration, while enhancing public safety, promoting equitable protection and supporting efficient and effective response and recovery. The city considers an integrated approach to wildfire risk, including emergency management planning and egress capacity, when evaluating development that affects residential density within mapped wildfire ignition zones. Council approved this change 8-1What Happens Next?Although City Council voted to approve the Boulder Valley Comprehensive Plan, the process is not yet complete. Because the BVCP is a joint planning document between the City of Boulder and Boulder County, four approving bodies must adopt the exact same version of the plan before it becomes final. Here's what happens next: Step 1: Staff prepares a revised draft. City staff will incorporate all of the amendments approved by City Council and compare them with the actions previously taken by the Planning Board, Boulder County Planning Commission, and Boulder County Commissioners. Staff will prepare a revised version that reflects Council's direction.Step 2: The revised plan returns to the Planning Board and Boulder County Commissioners in July. Both bodies will review the changes made by Council and determine whether they agree with the revised language. If they concur, they will vote to adopt the updated version.Step 3: Final adoption by City Council.Once all of the approving bodies have agreed &nbsp;on identical language, the plan returns to City Council for final adoption. If additional changes are made during the reconciliation process, Council will have the opportunity to review those changes before taking its final vote.June 25 was a major milestone, but it was not the final chapter. There will be at least one more opportunity for Council and the public to review the final reconciled plan before the BVCP is officially adopted. Thank you for reading!<h3> -Jenny</h3>

Boulder City Council June 25th Special Meeting

Hello Friends,This week’s meeting included two public hearings, with three votes within them.At a high level, council addressed: A resident-driven annexation tied to fire protection and a new citywide framework for major events like Sundance. Both passed unanimously. Here’s what happened.<h2>The Record:&nbsp;</h2><h3>Public Hearing: Spring Valley Annexation (Resolution 1381) and Agreement with Water Association</h3>Date of vote: 6/18/2026Outcome: Passed UnanimouslyClassification: Procedural<h3>What Happened</h3> Council considered annexing about 43 acres (36 homes) in North Boulder into the city with Residential Estate (RE) zoning. Key points:<ul><li>Annexation triggered by resident petition (69% support)&nbsp; </li><li>Primary goal: connect homes to city water for fire protection&nbsp; Residents will pay 100% of infrastructure costs via a Local Improvement District&nbsp; </li><li>Includes major upgrades: New water mains, hydrants, and pump station and road improvements for emergency access&nbsp; </li><li>No new development allowed (no subdivision, no added units)&nbsp;</li></ul>Important nuance: This is an annexation by election (rare in Boulder), meaning that council sets terms now and residents vote later. In addition, there is a $1M state grant (DOLA)is tied to timing, creating urgency&nbsp;Public comment was mostly supportive. They had concerns raised about cost allocation fairness and potential conflicts of interest in land transfers.<figure id="figure-14v3tzqxwmms4to0ca" data-full-width=""><img id="14v3tzqxwmms4to0ca" src="https://cdn.durable.co/blocks/1dOKi15vVwSdzoVLQzOhBujOTlNA99oW6z5SbzN7HWmlQLxR7fp1ef4JPslx4Vxc.png" alt="" title="" class="object-cover bg-gray-100 rounded-2xl md:rounded-3xl lg:rounded-4xl" style="aspect-ratio: 16/9; object-position: center center;" data-corners="large" data-aspect="16:9" data-caption="" data-positionx="undefined" data-positiony="undefined" data-fullwidth="true" data-mce-src="https://cdn.durable.co/blocks/1dOKi15vVwSdzoVLQzOhBujOTlNA99oW6z5SbzN7HWmlQLxR7fp1ef4JPslx4Vxc.png" data-mce-style="aspect-ratio: 16/9; object-position: center center;"></figure><h3>Why It Matters</h3> Annexation as a Wildfire Strategy: This is less about growth and more about risk management. The neighborhood sits in a high wildfire exposure area. According to the neighborhood and studies completed, the current water system is not adequate for fire response. This annexation effectively improves fire readiness, protects existing homes, protects the city edge overall.&nbsp;It’s also notable that residents are self-funding the improvements and no additional density is being added. This is a service-driven annexation, not a growth play.<h3>Public Hearing: Special Festival Events Ordinance (8751)</h3>Date of vote: 6/18/2026Outcome: Passed UnanimouslyClassification: Procedural<h3>What Happened</h3> Council adopted new rules to prepare for large-scale events like the Sundance Film Festival. &nbsp;What this does:<ul><li>Creates a new category: “Special Festival Event”&nbsp;<ul><li>Multi-day&nbsp; </li><li>15,000+ attendees&nbsp; </li><li>Can span public + private property&nbsp; </li></ul></li><li>Establishes a centralized permitting process&nbsp; </li><li>Updates rules for:&nbsp;<ul><li>Mobile food vendors&nbsp; </li><li>Temporary signage&nbsp; </li><li>Event operations and safety&nbsp;</li></ul></li></ul>Key points: Events are limited to 14 days, signs allowed temporarily (with size, safety, and timing limits), permit will requires detailed plans for security, traffic, and vendors. The city says this will allow them to manage congestion and competing events.Public comment was minimal, but included some opposition to Sundance itself.<h3>Why It Matters</h3> A New Playbook for Big Events: Boulder is stepping into a new category with Sundance.This ordinance moves the city from ad hoc event handling to formal framework. It acknowledges that existing “special event” rules were too small-scale. According to the city, it will creates a system that is faster, more centralized, more flexible. This is potentially a shift toward economic activation and arts and culture investment.&nbsp;<h3> </h3><h3>Jenny’s Take</h3> These were both unanimous votes, but they tell two very different stories about where Boulder is headed. Spring Valley Annexation is a reminder that sometimes government’s role is simple, provide basic infrastructure and reduce risk. This appears to be a practical, resident-driven solution to a real safety issue.&nbsp;The Festival Ordinance, on the other hand, signals something bigger. Boulder is intentionally evolving and preparing for regional/national-level events. With that comes opportunity and also growing pains. The key question moving forward is whether Boulder can execute well, adjust quickly, and balance community character with economic opportunity.&nbsp;<figure id="figure-13wx9w77v7ms4ujk5n"data-full-width><img id="13wx9w77v7ms4ujk5n" src="https://cdn.durable.co/blocks/18rh1YlEWYytwox1UQ9jD7vqXL8ijx4pmqME2ARqyJtJU7OJpAH2gsWA2r0ToAbm.png" alt="" title="" class="object-cover bg-gray-100 rounded-sm md:rounded-md lg:rounded-lg" style="aspect-ratio: 16/9; object-position: center center;" data-corners="default" data-aspect="16:9" data-caption="" data-positionX="undefined" data-positionY="undefined" data-fullWidth="true"/></figure>Thank you for reading!<h3> Jenny</h3>

Boulder City Council June 18th Regular Meeting

Hello Friends,Ballots for the June 30th Democratic Primary are arriving in mailboxes, and I’ve received quite a few questions about what is on the ballot and what these offices actually do. This guide is intended to provide a straightforward overview of the races you’ll see and why they matter.<h3>Jenny’s Pick Overview (Contested Races)</h3><h3>Statewide:</h3>Governor: Michael BennettTreasurer: Jeff BridgesSecretary of State: Jessie DanielsonAttorney General: Michael Dougherty<h3>Congressional District 2</h3>CU Regent: Edie Hooton<h3> Boulder County:</h3>County Treasurer: Rachel Friend There are also a few uncontested races. I want to recognize Representative to the US Congress Joe Neguse, Boulder County Sheriff Curtis Johnson, and Boulder County Commissioner Ashley Stolzmann as extraordinary public servants that I am also honored to support. &nbsp;<h3>Election Information</h3>Election Day: Tuesday, June 30, 2026Ballots must be received by your County Clerk by 7:00 p.m. on Election Day. (Postmarks do not count.)You can:<ul><li>Mail your ballot early. </li><li>Drop it off at any official ballot drop box. </li><li>Vote in person at a Voter Service and Polling Center.</li></ul>If you haven’t received your ballot or need to register, update your address, or check your voter registration, visit <a data-mce-href="GoVoteColorado.gov" href="GoVoteColorado.gov" target="_blank" rel="noopener">GoVoteColorado.gov</a>.Who Can Vote?<ul><li>Registered Democrats receive a Democratic primary ballot. </li><li>Unaffiliated voters may choose to vote in either the Democratic or</li><li>Republican primary, but not both. </li><li>Registered Republicans vote in the Republican primary. </li><li>Minor party voters participate in their own party’s primary if applicable.</li></ul><h3>What’s on the Ballot</h3>GovernorJenny’s Pick: Michael Bennett. He is currently serving as a United States Senator for Colorado, a position he has held since 2009. He has a track record of working across the aisle to get things done, focusing on practical solutions rather than political extremes. He’s also deeply experienced in education and economic policy, with a reputation for prioritizing opportunity, fiscal responsibility, and long-term growth for Colorado.The Governor serves as Colorado’s chief executive, overseeing state agencies, proposing the state budget, signing or vetoing legislation, responding to emergencies, and setting the overall direction of state government. The next governor will inherit significant challenges, including balancing the state budget, addressing housing affordability, wildfire mitigation, transportation, education funding, and water resources.As you evaluate candidates, consider:<ul><li>Leadership and management experience </li><li>Budget and fiscal priorities </li><li>Public safety </li><li>Housing and land use </li><li>Education </li><li>Climate and wildfire resilience</li></ul><h3>Attorney General</h3>Jenny’s Pick: Michael Dougherty. His experience as the Boulder County District Attorney shows he can manage complex cases and bring a balanced, practical approach to the Attorney General role. He has built a strong reputation as a prosecutor who focuses on public safety while also supporting prevention and treatment programs to reduce repeat offenses.&nbsp;The Attorney General is Colorado’s chief legal officer. This office represents the state in court, enforces consumer protection laws, prosecutes certain statewide crimes, provides legal guidance to state agencies, and often becomes involved in major constitutional and public policy issues.The Attorney General also plays an important role in:<ul><li>Consumer protection </li><li>Environmental enforcement </li><li>Public corruption </li><li>Civil rights </li><li>Criminal justice </li><li>Multi-state litigation</li></ul><h3>Secretary of State</h3>Jenny’s Pick: Jessie Danielson. She is a Colorado State Senator that would bring a strong focus on protecting voters and ensuring secure, accessible elections for all Coloradans. Her legislative experience and emphasis on transparency and consumer protection show she would prioritize integrity, accountability, and public trust in the Secretary of State’s office.The Secretary of State oversees Colorado’s elections, campaign finance reporting, business registrations, and public records related to elections.Responsibilities include:<ul><li>Administering statewide elections </li><li>Maintaining election security </li><li>Registering businesses </li><li>Campaign finance transparency </li><li>Election certification</li></ul><h3> State Treasurer</h3>Jenny’s Pick: Jeff Bridges. He currently serves as a Colorado State Senator and has extensive experience in budgeting and financial policy at the state level. His background working on Colorado’s Joint Budget Committee demonstrates a strong understanding of fiscal management, making him well-suited to oversee the state’s finances as Treasurer.The State Treasurer manages Colorado’s financial assets and investments, oversees the state’s banking relationships, administers several financial assistance programs, and works to safeguard taxpayer dollars.<h3>University of Colorado Regent (Congressional District 2)</h3>Jenny’s Pick: Edie Hooton. She previously served in the Colorado House of Representatives. She has focused on education, environmental issues, and policies impacting families and students. She brings a strong commitment to student success and ensuring the university remains accessible and affordable. Her focus on thoughtful governance and long-term planning would help guide the university system in a way that balances academic excellence with responsible oversight.The Board of Regents governs the University of Colorado system, including Boulder, Denver, Colorado Springs, and Anschutz Medical Campus. Because CU is one of Colorado’s largest public institutions, these elections often have long-lasting impacts on higher education and research.Regents are responsible for:<ul><li>Hiring and evaluating the university president </li><li>Approving major budgets </li><li>Setting tuition policies </li><li>Long-term strategic planning </li><li>Protecting the university’s academic mission</li></ul><h3>Boulder County Treasurer</h3>Jenny’s Pick: Rachel Friend. She previously served on Boulder City Council, where she worked on local policy, budgeting, and community priorities. Her experience with municipal finances and decision-making would position her well to manage county funds responsibly and bring a thoughtful, transparent approach to the Treasurer role.Although this office receives less public attention, the County Treasurer has an important responsibility managing county funds, collecting property taxes, investing public dollars, and ensuring revenues are distributed appropriately to schools, municipalities, libraries, and special districts.The office focuses on:<ul><li>Property tax collection </li><li>Investment of county funds </li><li>Financial accountability </li><li>Distribution of tax revenues </li><li>Fiscal stewardship</li></ul> I hope this guide helps make your ballot a little easier to navigate.Most importantly, make a plan to vote and be sure your ballot is received by 7:00 p.m. on June 30. Thank you for reading!<h3> Jenny</h3>

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Boulder City Council August 20th Regular Meeting

Boulder City Council August 6th Regular Meeting

Boulder City Council July 23rd Special Meeting

Boulder City Council June 25th Special Meeting

Boulder City Council June 18th Regular Meeting

2026 Democratic Primary Election Voter Guide