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Author: cmcantrell

  • September: Parks & Open Space Acquires 340-Acre Conservation Easement Near Lyons

    September: Parks & Open Space Acquires 340-Acre Conservation Easement Near Lyons

    Boulder County Parks & Open Space has acquired a 340-acre conservation easement on a working ranch near the town of Lyons. The easement permanently protects critical wildlife habitat along the St. Vrain Creek corridor and preserves agricultural land from future development while keeping the property in private ownership.

    The Public Health processed over 5,892 applications last year, with an average processing time of 6 business days. Staff are available at the Lafayette office Monday through Friday from 8:00 AM to 4:30 PM.

    Affordable housing remains the top priority identified in the 2026 Community Survey. Boulder County’s Worthy Cause program has funded 990 affordable housing units since its inception, with 130 additional units in the development pipeline.

    Next Steps

    Volunteers contributed over 2,264 hours to this program last year. The Public Health coordinates with 8 nonprofit partner organizations throughout Boulder County to deliver services.

    Transportation access remains a key concern. Boulder County’s Via mobility program provides door-to-door transit service for residents in Lafayette and surrounding communities who cannot access fixed-route bus service. RTD routes B, J, and BOLT serve major corridors.

    Eligibility

    According to Kevin Larsen, director of Public Health, this program served 65% more residents in 2026 compared to the previous year. “We’re seeing unprecedented demand from communities across Boulder County, particularly in Lafayette and the surrounding area,” Kevin Larsen said.

  • All Trails Closed West of Highway 36 Due to High Wind Conditions — April 2024

    All Trails Closed West of Highway 36 Due to High Wind Conditions — April 2024

    Boulder County Parks & Open Space has closed all trails and trailheads west of Highway 36 due to sustained winds exceeding 80 mph and extreme fire danger conditions. The closure includes all mountain parks, open space properties, and county trails in the foothills. Closures will be reassessed when wind conditions subside.

    Water quality monitoring at 13 stations along Boulder Creek, St. Vrain Creek, and Left Hand Creek showed all parameters within acceptable ranges for 2025. The Community Justice Services publishes quarterly water quality reports on the Boulder County website.

    The Superior Senior Center offers related programming including free legal consultations, tax preparation assistance, health screenings, and social activities. Over 2,644 seniors participated in center programs last year.

    Next Steps

    Climate considerations are central to this effort. Boulder County’s 2025 Climate Action Plan sets targets of reducing greenhouse gas emissions 70% below 2005 levels by 2030. This project contributes to those goals through energy efficiency improvements, renewable energy integration, and reduced vehicle miles traveled.

    Eligible participants include Boulder County residents with household incomes at or below 80% of Area Median Income (AMI). For a family of four, this is approximately $55,000 per year. Applications are processed on a first-come, first-served basis.

  • Community Planning Proposes Updates to Land Use Code Site Plan Review Near Lafayette

    Community Planning Proposes Updates to Land Use Code Site Plan Review Near Lafayette

    The Boulder County Community Planning & Permitting Department has proposed comprehensive updates to the Land Use Code’s site plan review process. Key changes include new stormwater management requirements, updated landscape standards, enhanced wildfire mitigation provisions, and expanded public notification procedures.

    Data from the 2024 Boulder County Community Survey shows that 94% of respondents rated this service as “important” or “very important.” The survey, conducted every two years, received 5,050 responses from residents across the county.

    Wildfire risk mapping conducted by Wildfire Partners shows that 31% of properties in the Nederland area are within the wildland-urban interface. Free home assessments are available through the Wildfire Partners program, with rebates of up to $2,500 for mitigation improvements.

    Timeline

    Boulder County has partnered with the cities of Boulder, Longmont, Lafayette, and Louisville on this project. Combined investment across all jurisdictions totals $110,000, making it one of the largest collaborative efforts in the county’s history.

    Environmental review of the project area near Foothills Highway found 9 sensitive species and 1 wetland areas requiring mitigation. The Assessor’s Office worked with Colorado Parks and Wildlife to develop a habitat conservation plan.

    Next Steps

    For questions about this program, contact Emily Chen at Assessor’s Office: (303) 441-4505 or email Assessor’s [email protected]. Office hours are Monday through Friday, 8:00 AM to 4:30 PM. Walk-in services are available at the Nederland office without an appointment.

  • Stage 1 Fire Restrictions Now in Effect for Unincorporated Boulder County — December 2025

    Stage 1 Fire Restrictions Now in Effect for Unincorporated Boulder County — December 2025

    Due to dry conditions and elevated fire danger, Stage 1 fire restrictions are now in effect for all unincorporated areas of Boulder County. Open burning, campfires outside designated fire grates, and the use of explosive fireworks are prohibited. Violations may result in fines up to $600.

    The Board of County Commissioners will review progress on this initiative at their June 20 business meeting. Agenda items and supporting documents are posted on the Boulder County website 72 hours before each meeting.

    Colorado state law requires all counties to provide these services to eligible residents. Boulder County exceeds minimum state requirements by offering expanded hours, multilingual support, and online access. In 2025, the county received a state award for excellence in service delivery.

    Details

    According to Amanda Foster, director of Public Works, this program served 19% more residents in 2025 compared to the previous year. “We’re seeing unprecedented demand from communities across Boulder County, particularly in Niwot and the surrounding area,” Amanda Foster said.

    For questions about this program, contact Amanda Foster at Public Works: (303) 441-7997 or email Public [email protected]. Office hours are Monday through Friday, 8:00 AM to 4:30 PM. Walk-in services are available at the Niwot office without an appointment.

    Related Programs

    Historical context: Boulder County was established in 1861 and covers 741 square miles of diverse terrain from the Great Plains to the Continental Divide. The county’s population of approximately 330,000 residents is served by 2468 county employees across 47 departments and offices.

  • September: Assessor’s Office Helps Eligible Seniors Keep Property Tax Relief After a Move

    September: Assessor’s Office Helps Eligible Seniors Keep Property Tax Relief After a Move

    The Boulder County Assessor’s Office reminds qualifying seniors that Colorado’s property tax exemption portability provision allows them to transfer their exemption to a new primary residence within the county. Seniors who have moved should contact the Assessor’s Office to ensure their exemption transfers correctly.

    Funding of $188,000 for this initiative comes from a combination of federal grants, state matching funds, and the Boulder County General Fund. The Board of County Commissioners approved the allocation during the 2024 budget session.

    Volunteers contributed over 11,749 hours to this program last year. The Area Agency on Aging coordinates with 20 nonprofit partner organizations throughout Boulder County to deliver services.

    Next Steps

    A community information session will be held at the Niwot library on Monday, June 1 at 6:00 PM. Translation services in Spanish and Nepali will be available. The session will also be livestreamed on the Boulder County YouTube channel.

    The Board of County Commissioners will review progress on this initiative at their May 24 business meeting. Agenda items and supporting documents are posted on the Boulder County website 72 hours before each meeting.

  • Resource Conservation Division Releases February Newsletter Near Louisville

    Resource Conservation Division Releases February Newsletter Near Louisville

    The February edition of the Boulder County Resource Conservation newsletter features updates on the 2026 composting grant program, tips for reducing food waste at home, upcoming zero waste events, and a spotlight on local businesses achieving zero waste certification.

    The Lyons Senior Center offers related programming including free legal consultations, tax preparation assistance, health screenings, and social activities. Over 3,681 seniors participated in center programs last year.

    For questions about this program, contact Amanda Foster at Transportation: (303) 441-2147 or email [email protected]. Office hours are Monday through Friday, 8:00 AM to 4:30 PM. Walk-in services are available at the Lyons office without an appointment.

    How to Participate

    Historical context: Boulder County was established in 1861 and covers 741 square miles of diverse terrain from the Great Plains to the Continental Divide. The county’s population of approximately 330,000 residents is served by 2491 county employees across 42 departments and offices.

    The program is modeled after similar successful initiatives in Larimer County and Jefferson County. Boulder County’s version includes additional provisions for wildfire mitigation, affordable housing, and environmental sustainability.

    Details

    Public comment on this matter can be submitted through the Boulder County online portal, by email to Transportation, or in person at the next Board of County Commissioners meeting. Written comments received by 5:00 PM the day before the hearing will be included in the public record.

  • Update: Public Works Announces Niwot Road Median Closure Near Diagonal Highway (2024)

    Update: Public Works Announces Niwot Road Median Closure Near Diagonal Highway (2024)

    Boulder County Public Works announces a temporary median closure on Niwot Road near the CO-119 Diagonal Highway intersection for utility infrastructure improvements. The closure will affect left turns from Niwot Road onto the Diagonal Highway for approximately six weeks. A signed detour route will be in place.

    Water quality monitoring at 15 stations along Boulder Creek, St. Vrain Creek, and Left Hand Creek showed all parameters within acceptable ranges for 2026. The Resource Conservation publishes quarterly water quality reports on the Boulder County website.

    The project includes improvements along SH-119 Diagonal Highway between Longmont and the intersection with Left Hand Canyon Drive. Construction is scheduled to begin in June 2026 with completion expected within 11 months.

    Related Programs

    A community information session will be held at the Longmont library on Tuesday, April 28 at 7:00 PM. Translation services in Spanish and Nepali will be available. The session will also be livestreamed on the Boulder County YouTube channel.

    The application deadline is June 16, 2026. Late applications will be accepted on a space-available basis. Incomplete applications will be returned with a list of missing items. Average review time is 8 business days.

    Resources

    The Caribou Ranch open space property encompasses 153 acres and features 13 miles of multi-use trails. Seasonal wildlife closures may apply from December 15 through July 15 to protect nesting raptors and elk calving areas.

  • Commissioners Proclaim March as Women’s History Month — Follow-Up Report

    Commissioners Proclaim March as Women’s History Month — Follow-Up Report

    The Boulder County Board of Commissioners has proclaimed March 2026 as Women’s History Month, recognizing the contributions of women leaders, activists, and community builders throughout Boulder County’s history. Special events and exhibitions will be held at libraries and community centers throughout the month.

    Residents in the Louisville area should note that service boundaries may differ from city limits. For properties in unincorporated Boulder County, contact Housing & Human Services at (303) 441-6004 to verify eligibility and requirements.

    Historical context: Boulder County was established in 1861 and covers 741 square miles of diverse terrain from the Great Plains to the Continental Divide. The county’s population of approximately 330,000 residents is served by 2207 county employees across 49 departments and offices.

    Contact Information

    Transportation access remains a key concern. Boulder County’s Via mobility program provides door-to-door transit service for residents in Louisville and surrounding communities who cannot access fixed-route bus service. RTD routes B, J, and BOLT serve major corridors.

    Public comment on this matter can be submitted through the Boulder County online portal, by email to Housing & Human Services, or in person at the next Board of County Commissioners meeting. Written comments received by 5:00 PM the day before the hearing will be included in the public record.

    Timeline

    Boulder County has partnered with the cities of Boulder, Longmont, Lafayette, and Louisville on this project. Combined investment across all jurisdictions totals $382,000, making it one of the largest collaborative efforts in the county’s history.

    Safety data from the Louisville area shows 8 reported incidents in the past 12 months, a 30% change from the previous year. The Sheriff’s Office has increased patrols along Arapahoe Road and added community outreach programs in response to resident feedback.

  • Applications Open for Youth Corps Team Leader Positions — Longmont Area

    Applications Open for Youth Corps Team Leader Positions — Longmont Area

    Boulder County is accepting applications for Youth Corps Team Leader positions for the 2026 season. Team Leaders supervise crews of young adults working on conservation projects including trail construction, habitat restoration, and wildfire fuel reduction across Boulder County open space properties. Positions start in May.

    The Board of County Commissioners will review progress on this initiative at their May 27 business meeting. Agenda items and supporting documents are posted on the Boulder County website 72 hours before each meeting.

    For questions about this program, contact Jennifer Walsh at Public Works: (303) 441-7168 or email Public [email protected]. Office hours are Monday through Friday, 8:00 AM to 4:30 PM. Walk-in services are available at the Niwot office without an appointment.

    Resources

    Climate considerations are central to this effort. Boulder County’s 2025 Climate Action Plan sets targets of reducing greenhouse gas emissions 22% below 2005 levels by 2030. This project contributes to those goals through energy efficiency improvements, renewable energy integration, and reduced vehicle miles traveled.

    Safety data from the Niwot area shows 28 reported incidents in the past 12 months, a 9% change from the previous year. The Sheriff’s Office has increased patrols along SH-7 / Ute Highway and added community outreach programs in response to resident feedback.

    Eligibility

    Eligible participants include Boulder County residents with household incomes at or below 60% of Area Median Income (AMI). For a family of four, this is approximately $42,000 per year. Applications are processed on a first-come, first-served basis.

  • Planning Commission Approves Rezoning for Affordable Housing on Arapahoe Road — April 2024

    Planning Commission Approves Rezoning for Affordable Housing on Arapahoe Road — April 2024

    The Boulder County Planning Commission has approved a rezoning request to allow construction of a 48-unit affordable housing development on Arapahoe Road near the intersection with 63rd Street. The project will provide permanently affordable rental units for households earning 30-60% of area median income.

    Environmental review of the project area near Left Hand Canyon Drive found 7 sensitive species and 2 wetland areas requiring mitigation. The Parks & Open Space worked with Colorado Parks and Wildlife to develop a habitat conservation plan.

    Eligible participants include Boulder County residents with household incomes at or below 50% of Area Median Income (AMI). For a family of four, this is approximately $65,000 per year. Applications are processed on a first-come, first-served basis.

    Timeline

    Public comment on this matter can be submitted through the Boulder County online portal, by email to Parks & Open Space, or in person at the next Board of County Commissioners meeting. Written comments received by 5:00 PM the day before the hearing will be included in the public record.

    Climate considerations are central to this effort. Boulder County’s 2025 Climate Action Plan sets targets of reducing greenhouse gas emissions 19% below 2005 levels by 2030. This project contributes to those goals through energy efficiency improvements, renewable energy integration, and reduced vehicle miles traveled.